The Untamed (Season 2)

Chapter 20

We Wuxian's P.O.V

It had been a full week since the relentless typhoon had settled over Gusu, battering the region with torrential rain and fierce winds. Inside our home, the atmosphere was tense as Lan Zhan and Zewu Jun worked diligently to harness their spiritual power in a determined effort to quell the tempest. Their brows knitted with concentration, it was a relief when, finally, Lan Zhan—with a look of unwavering resolve—managed to calm the storm, ushering in a much-needed reprieve for the weary town.

Feeling invigorated by the change in the weather, I took a moment to check on A Ling and A Yuan, who had nestled together on our sofa, lost in their peaceful slumber. Gently, I nudged them awake, urging them to lend a hand to the maidens who needed assistance outside. After a quick wash-up, I donned my white and blue robe, reminiscent of Lan Zhan's traditional attire, its fabric soft against my skin.

Stepping outside, I was greeted by the sight of everyone hard at work—people rallying together to mend what the storm had disrupted. My heart swelled with gratitude, and I decided to gather all the trembling bunnies that had been left unprotected in the chaos. With great care, I placed them in our room temporarily, ensuring they were warm and safe from the chill.

After settling the bunnies, I ventured out again, drawn to the gathering at the meeting area where my father-in-law stood, his authoritative presence commanding attention. I sifted quietly to Lan Zhan's side, his hand finding its way to my lap beneath the table, a silent gesture of comfort and solidarity as we both focused on the proceedings.

My father-in-law, Lan Qiren, cleared his throat, his voice echoing with authority. "I'll ask you once more, all of you Sect Leaders: are you going to participate in the Night Hunt?" he inquired, his intense gaze sweeping across the room. We all bowed our heads respectfully, acknowledging the weight of his question.

"YES!" came our unified response, filled with determination. A smile broke across Lan Qiren's face, satisfied with our enthusiasm.

Once the meeting adjourned, Lan Zhan and I found our way to the back of the falls. The air was fresh, the fragrance of the earth revitalized by the rain. We slipped into the cool, inviting waters, letting the streams wash over us as we swam and played.

"Lan Zhan," I asked, my tone shifting to one of seriousness beneath the laughter, "do you think this storm was caused by someone from another clan?"

He considered my question, a thoughtful look crossing his face before giving a small, affirmative nod. Just then, mischievously, he flicked some water in my direction, and without missing a beat, I splashed him back. Our laughter filled the air, a moment of pure joy amidst the turmoil surrounding us. It was a fleeting escape, a reminder of the bond we shared even as uncertainty loomed in the distance.

After we finished our swim, the cool, refreshing water still clinging to our skin, we made our way back to our room to wash up. The anticipation of the night hunt tomorrow hung in the air, and we busied ourselves packing supplies and strategizing. I was deep in thought when the door creaked open, and Jiang Cheng stepped inside, a serious expression etched on his face.

He wasted no time diving into conversation, bringing up a troubling topic: the approaching typhoon that he suspected was connected to the Jin Clan. My eyes widened in surprise and concern, and I couldn't help but interject, recalling that before Meng Yao left, there had been numerous cultivators demonstrating the ability to manipulate winds, including powerful typhoon-like gusts. Jiang Cheng's brows furrowed as he shared his suspicion that they might target me again.

"Yahh, why is it always me?!" I pouted, exasperation leaking into my tone, feeling the weight of the unexpected scrutiny on my shoulders.

Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes, exhaling in annoyance, "In their eyes, you are always Yiling Laozu." His words echoed the burdensome legacy that seemed to follow me like a shadow.

"But I'm more handsome in this era!" I shot back in an attempt to lighten the mood, flashing a playful grin, which was quickly interrupted by the sudden appearance of Huaisang. He sauntered into the room, flamboyant as ever, interrupting our discussion with his dramatic flair.

With an exaggerated gesture, he fanned himself, casting a teasing glance my way. "Weishou, judging from before..." He took a moment to eye me up and down, a mischievous smile creeping across his face. "You are way hotter in your Yiling Patriarch era," he declared, his tone teasing yet light-hearted.

I crossed my arms in mock indignation, rolling my eyes back at him, seeking solace in Lan Zhan's steady presence beside me. He offered a gentle smile, a quiet understanding in his gaze, but it only deepened the curious tension swirling in the room. It was a strange mix of camaraderie and heavy expectation, and I couldn't shake the feeling that tomorrow would change everything.

Once I finished packing my things and Lan Zhan's, I gently ushered Jiang Cheng and Huaisang out of my room. I wanted a rare moment of solitude with my husband, just the two of us.

As soon as the door clicked shut behind them, I turned towards Lan Zhan, feeling a rush of warmth and affection. I leaned in and pressed my lips against his, feeling the familiar comfort in his embrace. I settled into his lap, laying my head against his shoulder. The steady rhythm of his heartbeat was soothing, and I could sense the softness of his smile as he tenderly rubbed my back.

"Lan Zhan," I ventured, my voice quivering, "do you think they might come after me again?" I felt a lump in my throat as tears began to well in my eyes.

He noticed my distress immediately. With gentle hands, he brushed away the tears that had escaped my gaze and caressed my cheeks thoughtfully. "If they do come after you again... I promise, no one will get close to you while I'm around," he assured me, his voice fierce yet filled with love. A soft giggle escaped my lips, and I wrapped my arms around him tightly, feeling safe in his presence.

"You're the best," I murmured, pulling back just enough to look into his eyes.

"You changed me," he replied, his words wrapping around my heart like a warm blanket. The depth of his honesty made my heart swell, and my emotions overwhelmed me. Tears flowed freely, and I could see the concern in his eyes as he attempted to comfort me, but I was genuinely moved by his sentiment.

Despite the admiration others had for my demonic tricks, it was Lan Zhan who never seemed affected by the allure. While others turned their backs on me, he stood steadfast, unwavering through both the darkest moments and the brightest joys. In that moment, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude; I was incredibly thankful to have him by my side as my husband.