Returns To Innocent

Chapter 13: The Storm Within

Morning came quietly, with a soft fog rolling through the Cloud Recesses, wrapping the buildings in a cool, misty embrace. Wei Wuxian woke early, the events of the past few days still heavy on his mind. Lan Zhan had slept peacefully through the night, and Wei Wuxian was grateful for the small mercy. But the underlying worry never truly left him.

Lan Zhan stirred awake, rubbing his eyes as he blinked up at Wei Wuxian. “Wei Ying, what are we doing today?”

Wei Wuxian, who had been lost in thought at his desk, turned to face Lan Zhan with a bright smile, masking the turmoil within. “Whatever you want, Lan Zhan. We can go see the rabbits, explore the gardens, or maybe I can show you some new tricks?”

Lan Zhan’s eyes lit up at the mention of tricks. His fascination with Wei Wuxian’s playful charms and illusions had only grown since becoming a child again. “Tricks! I want to learn tricks!”

Wei Wuxian chuckled, patting Lan Zhan’s head. “Alright, alright. We’ll do some tricks. But first, let’s have breakfast.”

As they made their way to the dining hall, they were greeted by a few junior disciples who offered polite bows, though their expressions were a mix of awe and uncertainty. Word of Lan Zhan’s transformation and his new mischievous streak had spread throughout the Cloud Recesses. Some of the younger disciples even found themselves charmed by his antics, though the elders were less amused.

Inside the hall, Lan Xichen was already seated, reviewing a scroll with a thoughtful expression. He looked up as Wei Wuxian and Lan Zhan approached, a warm smile softening his features. “Good morning, Wangji, Wei Wuxian.”

“Good morning, Xichen-ge!” Wei Wuxian greeted cheerfully, while Lan Zhan climbed into his seat next to Lan Xichen, beaming up at his brother.

Lan Xichen set aside his scroll and poured tea for them, his movements graceful and precise. “How are you feeling today, Wangji?”

Lan Zhan nodded, reaching for his chopsticks with a small hand. “I’m good! Wei Ying is going to show me some tricks today.”

Lan Xichen chuckled softly, sharing a knowing look with Wei Wuxian. “That sounds like fun. Just be careful not to cause too much trouble.”

Wei Wuxian grinned. “Trouble? Us? Never.”

After breakfast, they made their way to a quiet clearing near the bamboo forest where Wei Wuxian often practiced his cultivation arts. Lan Zhan eagerly followed, his small feet padding along the stone path. When they reached their destination, Wei Wuxian pulled out his bamboo flute, Chenqing, and began to play a lively tune.

Lan Zhan watched with rapt attention, his eyes wide as the flute’s music seemed to dance in the air. Wei Wuxian’s melodies always had a magical quality to them, and today was no different. Small wisps of spiritual energy swirled around them, forming shapes and patterns that shifted with the music.

“Can you teach me, Wei Ying?” Lan Zhan asked, his voice full of wonder.

Wei Wuxian smiled and crouched down to Lan Zhan’s level, handing him the flute. “It takes practice, but I can show you the basics.”

Lan Zhan took the flute with reverence, his tiny hands struggling to hold it properly. He blew into it, producing a high-pitched squeak that made them both burst into laughter. Wei Wuxian gently adjusted Lan Zhan’s grip, guiding him through the motions with patience and encouragement.

“Like this, Lan Zhan. Just relax and let the music flow.”

Lan Zhan nodded earnestly, his brows furrowing in concentration as he tried again. The sound was still off, but he didn’t give up, determined to master the instrument. Wei Wuxian watched with pride, his heart swelling at the sight of Lan Zhan’s dedication, even in this playful form.