Mischief in Gusu

Chapter 13: The Calm Before the Storm

The following days at the Cloud Recesses were filled with a whirlwind of activity. The elders convened regularly, their faces marked with concern and determination as they strategized their defense against the impending threat. Disciples trained tirelessly, honing their skills and preparing for battle. The air was thick with tension, but beneath it lay an unyielding spirit of unity and resolve.

Wei Wuxian found himself caught between the urgency of preparation and the moments of levity he tried to maintain with Lan Wangji, Lan Sizhui, and Lan Jingyi. They spent evenings together, training and discussing their plans while sharing laughter that echoed against the stone walls of the Cloud Recesses. It was a delicate balance, and Wei Wuxian knew they needed to remain vigilant, but he couldn’t help injecting some humor into their efforts.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow across the courtyard, Wei Wuxian decided to lighten the mood. “How about a little competition?” he proposed, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. “Let’s see who can shoot the most arrows at the target!”

Lan Wangji raised an eyebrow, his expression skeptical. “Is this truly the time for games?”

“Absolutely!” Wei Wuxian insisted, clasping his hands together. “We can train and have fun at the same time! Besides, we need to keep our spirits up.”

Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi exchanged glances, both showing interest in Wei Wuxian’s suggestion. “I’m in!” Jingyi said, bouncing on his heels, enthusiasm bubbling forth.

“Count me in too,” Sizhui added, a bright smile lighting up his face.

As they gathered their bows and arrows, Wei Wuxian felt a thrill of excitement coursing through him. The competitive spirit ignited between them, a welcome distraction from the heavy atmosphere hanging over the sect. He positioned the target at a suitable distance and drew the first arrow, aiming carefully before letting it fly.

“Nice shot!” Sizhui exclaimed, watching the arrow hit the target with a satisfying thud.

“Your turn, Lan Wangji!” Wei Wuxian called, trying to encourage his companion.

Lan Wangji stepped forward, his movements graceful and precise as he notched an arrow. With unwavering focus, he released it, hitting the target dead center. The others clapped in admiration, and Wei Wuxian couldn’t help but tease, “Show-off!”

The playful banter continued as they took turns shooting arrows, laughter mingling with the sounds of their competitive spirits. Wei Wuxian felt a sense of normalcy wash over him, a reminder that they were still alive and that even in dark times, joy could be found in camaraderie.

After a while, they settled down, panting from their exertion. “This was fun,” Wei Wuxian said, wiping his brow. “We should do this more often, especially when things get tense.”

“Indeed,” Lan Wangji replied, a rare smile gracing his lips. “But we must remember our priorities. The threat is still looming.”

“Of course, Lan Zhan,” Wei Wuxian replied, leaning back against the ground. “But a little fun can’t hurt, right?”

Just then, a commotion interrupted their playful atmosphere. A group of disciples rushed into the courtyard, their faces pale with urgency. “Elders! We need your help!” one of them shouted.

The mood shifted instantly, tension returning as they gathered around the newcomers. “What’s wrong?” Wei Wuxian asked, his heart racing.

“A messenger has arrived from the Jiang clan!” another disciple exclaimed, breathing heavily. “They reported seeing signs of the dark figure we warned about!”