This is the last day of the conference held by the GusuLan Clan, and as requested by its heir, since an afternoon of swimming has been organised for later on, there is a midmorning snack session instead of a proper lunch.
After the meal, Lan Qiren concludes the conference and invites everyone to attend the Banquet in the evening. Tomorrow, everyone will leave except for those with the strongest cores, although most of them do not know why they are to remain behind when most of their sects and clans will have returned home.
But even though on the surface level, it appears that there remains nothing to be stressed about generally, it is only the inner Clan members and their closest allies and friends who are aware that the most important tasks are still to be completed. In fact, everything they have done until now is only the lead up to what will be the greatest challenge of the Cultivation world at large.
It is a blessing that most of them are blissfully unaware of the danger they are currently in, and once the Yin Iron is destroyed, again, they will remain ignorant of the threat it posed towards them.
All the disciples from every Sect return to their quarters to retrieve towels and a change of clothes.
That's when Lan Huan takes his chance to speak with his uncle.
"Shufu...I am nervous about this afternoon," he admits.
"Come here," Lan Qiren immediately opens his arms to him.
They are alone in the Hanshi at the moment, and both of them are glad for the opportunity to speak privately.
Lan Qiren hugs him tightly, memorising the feel of his soft hair under calloused fingertips, the softness of too-young cheeks still chubby, pressed against his chest. Lan Huan will be tall if already at age nine his head is nearly up to Lan Qiren's shoulders. Too often, advanced height led to the misconception of equality in age, and Lan Qiren reminds himself of how old Lan Huan really is.
Childhood is often difficult enough without the added pressures of being an heir. He remembers his own growing up, comfortable in the knowledge that his Xiongzhang's presence meant that he was free of such burdens. But XiChen is not so lucky. However, there is still some time until he must answer to that name.
"What is worrying you?" His fingers card through the heavy, thick hair, silky as it parts under his hand. Slowly, he can feel Lan Huan relax.
"Will everything be alright?"
Lan Qiren laughs softly.
Lan Huan leans back to look at him, confused.
"That is impossible to predict," Lan Qiren tells him gently. "All we can do is meet each challenge that comes to us with our chests out, ready to win. Positive thinking is half of the battle, but did you know that there is a deep secret hidden underneath?"
Lan Huan shakes his head, and comforts himself by hugging his uncle even closer.
"There is. It is like throwing a wish into the universe and hoping it comes true. We must project our success into the world and allow no room for doubts. Once you choose your path, the only thing that is left is to do your best. So, this afternoon, be the best host you can be. Be gracious, be welcoming, and do not worry, because you have a whole group of people behind you, ready to support you. Be a child while you still can." He kisses the top of Lan Huan's head.
They have already discussed the meeting between Lan Qiren and Qingheng-Jun. Neither knows if what Lan Qiren said to his brother will hit home, and produce a satisfactory outcome.
Similarly, they don't know if this afternoon will proceed as they wish, but all they can do is hope for it.
"Okay, Shufu. I will do my best." Lan Huan steps back and bows.
