Nineteen

The Jingshi was unusually full today. Everyone gathered for a family lunch. Lan Zhan and Wei Ying sat together on the right side. Lan Xichen took the edge closer to Lan Zhan, while Jiang Cheng sat opposite, near Wei Ying. Across from them, the five heirs sat quietly.

At five months pregnant, Wei Ying's medium bump was visible beneath his robes. His left hand absentmindedly stroked his belly in gentle circles, a soothing habit he'd picked up since the bump had started to show more prominently. The room was quiet, everyone adhering to the sect's rule of silence during meals, which left Wei Ying feeling a bit bored. His mind began to drift.

Suddenly, Lan Zhan reached over and gently squeezed Wei Ying's hand, stilling its movements. His thumb brushed over the back of Wei Ying's hand tenderly, and when Wei Ying looked up, he was met with those warm golden eyes full of concern and love. Wei Ying responded with his signature toothy grin, which melted Lan Zhan's heart every time.

"I'm okay, my love," Wei Ying whispered softly, assuring him. He then picked up a bite of spicy ramen and focused on chewing, though his thoughts still wandered.

Unexpectedly, Jiang Cheng's inner voice echoed in Wei Ying's mind. "I wish we could go back to how things were. I really regret everything I did to you, Wei Wuxian..." Jiang Cheng's thoughts were tinged with guilt and longing. Wei Ying knew Lan Zhan could hear them too, though he chose not to block them.

Jiang Cheng continued, "I'm so sorry, my brother. No matter how much you ignore me, I won't give up on us..."

His thoughts paused for a moment before continuing, "Back then, I was scared and angry... I blamed you for Jie's death. But deep down, I knew it wasn't your fault. She... she went to the battlefield without considering the risks. I just wish one day you could forgive me. I've made so many mistakes, and not being there for you was the worst one. I really do love you, A-Xian..."

As Jiang Cheng's inner monologue ended, Wei Ying silently ate another bite, hoping that would be the end of it. But then Lan Xichen's thoughts chimed in.

Lan Xichen had noticed Jiang Cheng's sigh and glanced at him with concern. "My angry little husband," he thought, "I love you more than anything, but what you did to A-Xian... you deserve this distance he's keeping from you."

Wei Ying nearly choked on his food, catching Lan Xichen's thoughts. Lan Zhan instantly brought a cup of water to his lips, and Wei Ying gratefully drank, while Lan Zhan gently stroked his back with worry etched on his face.

"Block their thoughts, Wei Ying. You don't have to hear them if you don't want to," Lan Zhan communicated through their bond.

Wei Ying smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry, Lan Zhan. I want to know what they're thinking, even if it's selfish of me," he responded mentally, playfully batting his eyelashes. Lan Zhan felt a sudden urge to kiss him then and there.

"Mama, are you okay now?" the children asked in unison, their little voices filled with concern. Wei Ying beamed at them, nodding. "I'm perfectly fine, my loves." He gently kissed each of their foreheads, feeling their pure adoration.

Lan Xichen resumed his thoughts. "My love, you had your chance to show your brother love, but you let your pride get in the way. I could never abandon Wangji if he needed me. A-Xian's heart is selfless; he loves all children equally, whether they're his or not. He's as kind as Wangji is pure."

With the meal over, dessert was served. Wei Ying, now leaning heavily against Lan Zhan, allowed his husband to feed him small bites. Just as Wei Ying thought the barrage of inner thoughts was over, the children's innocent minds began to buzz.

Lan Sizhui's thoughts were brimming with affection. "Mama is so kind and beautiful. We're so lucky he's ours. I've never seen Father this happy before. Now I understand why he loves Mama so much. I love you both." Sizhui chuckled softly, and Wei Ying leaned over to kiss his forehead, whispering, "We love you too."

Four pairs of wide, curious eyes turned toward him, filled with yearning. Wei Ying couldn't resist; he leaned in and kissed each child's forehead as well. "Lan Zhan, they're so adorable!" he whispered, his heart swelling with affection.

Lan Hua was eagerly thinking about learning new talismans with his Mama. Lan Li was excited to spend time hearing stories from Wei Ying's youth. Lan Jingyi, deep in thought, was contemplating his future as the leader of the Jiang Sect, while Lan Yu was planning to show something special to her siblings after lunch.

As everyone began to leave, Lan Zhan took the chance to pull Wei Ying onto his lap, wrapping him in a tight embrace. "What's on Wei Ying's mind?" he asked softly.

"Nothing much, my love," Wei Ying replied. "Are you ready to talk to Jiang Wanyin? I won't mind if it brings you peace," Lan Zhan gently suggested.

Wei Ying shook his head, his expression pained. "I'm not ready, Lan Zhan. I don't know if I'll ever be. Every time I think of him, all I can remember is that mountain. I saw you both before I died.... your fear and his hatred. I still have nightmares."

Lan Zhan pressed a tender kiss to Wei Ying's head. "You don't have to do anything now or later. Just focus on yourself," he whispered, comforting him.

Wei Ying discreetly wiped away a tears. "Let's stop talking about him, please?"

"Mn."

"What does Wei Ying want to do now?" Lan Zhan asked, changing the subject.

Wei Ying tapped his nose playfully. "I promised Wei Po we'd take the kids to visit her mountain tomorrow. Can we go?"

Lan Zhan nodded. "Mn, we can all go."

Suddenly, Wei Ying's eyes lit up, and he grabbed Lan Zhan's hand. "Lan Zhan, the baby's kicking! Feel it!"

Lan Zhan placed his large palm over Wei Ying's belly and felt the soft flutter of their child's movements. His lips curved into a rare, gentle smile, and he leaned down to place a kiss on Wei Ying's robes, where their baby was nestled.

He then picked Wei Ying up carefully and carried him to the bed, laying him down gently. "Wei Ying needs to rest now."

Wei Ying grinned mischievously. "Only if you stay with me."

Lan Zhan removed their outer robes and settled beside him. Wei Ying cuddled close to Lan Zhan's chest, already starting to doze off with a loud yawn.

*****

The morning sun bathed Cloud Recesses in a soft, golden light as the family prepared for their journey to Wei Po's mountain. The air was crisp, with a gentle breeze that carried the scent of pine and morning dew. Wei Ying, feeling the flutter of excitement, stood by the entrance of their quarters, ensuring that everyone was ready for the trip. His left hand rested on his growing bump, a small smile playing on his lips as he watched the children bustle about.

Lan Zhan approached him, his expression serene yet filled with a quiet joy. "Is Wei Ying ready?" he asked, his voice as soothing as the morning breeze.

Wei Ying nodded, leaning into Lan Zhan's side. "Mn, I can't wait to see Wei Po again. And I know the children will love the mountain."

Lan Zhan gently placed a hand over Wei Ying's, both resting on the bump. "We'll be together," he said, his voice firm with quiet determination.

The family soon gathered outside. Lan Sizhui, Lan Jingyi, Lan Yu, Lan Li, and Lan Hua were all excited, chattering quietly among themselves. Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng comes to say there good byes, the latter keeping a respectful distance from Wei Ying, though his eyes lingered on his brother with a mix of longing and regret.

With a final check, Lan Zhan nodded to Wei Ying, and they all began the journey, they decided to go on foot. The group moved in harmony, their steps light as they ascended the path to Wei Po's mountain. Wei Ying, despite being five months pregnant, moved with grace, supported by Lan Zhan's strong presence at his side.

As they reached the mountain's peak, the atmosphere shifted. The air here was different....thicker with spiritual energy, yet calm and serene. The trees were ancient, their leaves whispering secrets of old times, and the ground beneath their feet seemed to hum with life.

Boashan Sanren appeared, her figure emerging from the mist like a guardian of the mountain. Her eyes, sharp yet kind, softened as she saw the family approaching.

"A-Ying," she greeted, her voice carrying a warmth that contrasted with her usual stoic demeanor. "It's good to see you again, and with your family."

Wei Ying beamed at her, bowing slightly. "Wei Po, we've come to visit, as promised. The children were eager to see the mountain."

The children, all well-mannered despite their excitement, bowed respectfully. Lan Sizhui stepped forward. "Thank you for welcoming us, Yao-Yao."

Boashan Sanren nodded, her gaze lingering on each child, as if assessing them. "You have done well, A-Ying," she said, her eyes flicking to the bump. "And soon, there will be another addition."

Wei Ying smiled, his hand instinctively rubbing his belly. "Yes, soon."

Boashan Sanren turned her attention to Lan Zhan, nodding in approval. "And you, A-Zhan, have kept your promise. This family is strong, bound by love and trust. You honor your vows."

Lan Zhan inclined his head, his expression respectful. "Wei Ying is my life. I will always protect our family."

She smiled faintly at that, then turned back to the children. "Come," she said, gesturing towards a clearing. "There is much to learn here, and I believe each of you will find something that speaks to your heart."

The children followed eagerly, their curiosity piqued. Wei Ying and Lan Zhan stayed behind for a moment, watching them with fond smiles.

As the children explored, Boashan led them to different parts of the mountain, sharing its secrets and teaching them about the ancient talismans that protected the land. Each child found something unique.... Lan Hua discovered a hidden spring where the water glimmered with spiritual energy, while Lan Li found an ancient tree with carvings that told stories of past cultivators.

Lan Sizhui, ever the scholar, listened intently as Boashan explained the history of the mountain, while Lan Jingyi observed the natural surroundings, already thinking of how he could incorporate what he learned into his future leadership of the Jiang Sect. Lan Yu, meanwhile, was captivated by the rare herbs that grew in the mountain's shaded nooks, thinking of ways to share this knowledge with her siblings.

Wei Ying watched them from a distance, his heart swelling with pride. He turned to Lan Zhan, who was standing close by, his gaze fixed on their children.

"They're growing up so fast," Wei Ying murmured, leaning his head on Lan Zhan's shoulder.

"Mn," Lan Zhan agreed, wrapping an arm around Wei Ying's waist. "But they will always be our children."

Wei Ying chuckled softly. "Yes, they will."

After the exploration, Boashan invited the family to sit with her in the clearing. The children sat around her in a semi-circle, while Wei Ying and Lan Zhan sat slightly behind them.

"A-Ying," Boashan began, her tone serious but gentle. "You have come far from the days of your youth. You've built a family, faced trials, and found your path. This mountain will always be a place of refuge for you and your family."

Wei Ying nodded, feeling a lump form in his throat. "Thank you, Wei Po. For everything."

Boashan's gaze softened. "It is I who should thank you, A-Ying. For bringing life and love back to this mountain. Your presence here has brought balance."

Wei Ying's eyes glistened with unshed tears as he smiled at her. "We'll always cherish this place."

Lan Zhan, sensing Wei Ying's emotions, squeezed his hand gently. "We will return whenever Wei Ying wishes."

Boashan Sanren smiled at them both, then turned her attention to the children. "Remember what you have learned here. This mountain holds wisdom and power, but it is your hearts that will guide you in how to use it."

The children nodded solemnly, understanding the weight of her words.

As the day drew to a close, the family prepared to leave the mountain, their hearts full and their minds buzzing with new knowledge. Boashan stood at the edge of the clearing, watching as they descended the mountain path, her figure gradually fading into the mist.

Wei Ying glanced back once, catching a final glimpse of her before she disappeared completely. He smiled, feeling a deep sense of peace. This mountain, this place, would always be a part of their family's story.

The journey back to Cloud Recesses was peaceful, the family walking together, closer than ever. Wei Ying felt a renewed sense of connection to the land, to his family, and to Lan Zhan, who walked beside him, their hands intertwined.

As they arrived back home, the children dispersed to share their experiences with the other disciples, their voices filled with excitement.

Wei Ying and Lan Zhan, however, lingered at the entrance, taking in the sight of their home, bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun.

"Thank you, Lan Zhan," Wei Ying whispered, leaning into him.

"For what?" Lan Zhan asked, his voice gentle.

"For always being by my side," Wei Ying replied, his heart full of love.

Lan Zhan turned to face him, cupping his cheek. "Wei Ying, you are my everything. There is nowhere else I would rather be."

With that, Lan Zhan leaned down, pressing a tender kiss to Wei Ying's lips. As they stood there, wrapped in each other's warmth, the world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the love they shared.