Under the Moonlight

Chapter 43

Here's the other chapter I was working on! I'm basically done writing the rest. Just need to edit and then this story will come to an end! Thank you for staying with me through this journey!

As the heavy silence settled following the conversation, the doors creaked open, and Xue Yang strode in, followed closely by Lan Wangji, Lan Sizhui, and Master Ouyang with his son. Wei Wuxian's eyes were drawn instinctively to Lan Wangji, and for a brief moment, the world seemed to narrow. But when his gaze fell upon Lan Sizhui, a sudden wave of guilt gripped him, his chest tightening with emotion. His pheromones flared, betraying his inner turmoil, a mixture of remorse and protectiveness washing over him.

Xue Yang approached confidently, though a flicker of something unguarded—a flash of sadness—crossed his eyes when they met Wei Wuxian's. It was gone as quickly as it appeared, replaced by his usual cool determination. "Master Jiang," he greeted, offering a respectful bow. "Meng Yao's forces are already in place. He has the support of the Lan Clan, thanks to Lan Xichen. Both the Jin and Lan Clans are strong."

At the mention of Lan Xichen, Jiang Cheng's jaw tightened, his fist clenched at his side. His voice was sharp with frustration as he turned toward Lan Wangji. "What is Lan Xichen thinking? Fighting for him? Is there nothing you can do?"

Lan Wangji remained composed, though a shadow passed over his face. "I am not the clan leader," he replied quietly, a deep sense of duty lacing his words. "Uncle cannot act either."

Xue Yang, clearly uninterested in the complexities of Lan Xichen's decision, waved his hand dismissively. "It doesn't matter. Wei Wuxian has chenqing and the complete Tiger Tally. With that power, we'll have Meng Yao on his knees in no time, begging for mercy."

Wei Wuxian's expression remained steady, but there was a sharp edge to his voice. "Power isn't enough. We can't afford to be reckless. Meng Yao might have the numbers, but what we have that he doesn't is unity. This isn't just about us—this is for everyone who has suffered under his hand."

Jiang Cheng nodded, his face hardening with resolve. "You're right. This time, we fight together. No more grudges, no more bitterness. We end this, for all of us."

The tension in the room eased slightly as Jiang Cheng exited the meeting room, his mind already on the battle ahead. One by one, the others followed, leaving Wei Wuxian, Lan Wangji, and Lan Sizhui standing alone in the now quiet room.

Before Wei Wuxian could speak, Lan Sizhui stepped forward, bowing respectfully. His innocent smile shone brightly, a gentle warmth that contrasted with the tension that had hung over the room. "Master Wei," he greeted, his voice calm but filled with sincerity. "I'm glad you're safe."

Wei Wuxian couldn't help but return the smile. Looking at Lan Sizhui his heart ached. The innocence in his eyes only magnified the guilt Wei Wuxian felt, knowing that his presence in the boy's life might bring pain to those he loved.

"How are you?" Wei Wuxian asked gently, hoping to mask the sorrow he felt. He reached out, playfully ruffling Lan Sizhui's hair in an attempt to lighten the mood. "Did they hurt you? At Koi Tower? Are you injured?"

Lan Sizhui shook his head quickly, his smile unwavering. "No, Father got me out in time."

Wei Wuxian's relief was brief, his brow furrowing as a deeper concern crossed his mind. "Are you... Are you using demonic cultivation?" He asked the question cautiously, knowing the implications.

Lan Sizhui shook his head immediately, his voice firm. "No, Master Wei. Of course not. Father says there are spirits protecting me."

Wei Wuxian stared at him, shocked. "Spirits protecting you?" The words echoed in his mind. Why would spirits surround Lan Sizhui, a boy so pure and untouched by darkness? There was no malice in him, no reason for spirits to follow him so closely.