Your Majesty," Boashan Sanren bowed deeply to the Jade Emperor, who sat regally on his pure white throne.
"Immortal one," the Jade Emperor began, "have the demons been returned to their place in hell?"
"Yes, Your Majesty," Boashan replied, "every escaped demon is back where they belong."
The Jade Emperor sighed in relief and stood up abruptly. "That's good, Boashan." As he walked towards her, she bowed even lower, showing her respect.
He passed her without a glance, heading for the exit. "Immortal one," he called back, "would you like to escort me?"
Boashan, surprised, quickly replied, "If His Majesty's generosity allows me to escort him, I would be honored."
The Jade Emperor chuckled but did not turn around.
"I think you want to see your grandson. You know I have unfinished business with him," he added, and Boashan followed him curiously.
They reached the room where Wei Ying lay peacefully. The Jade Emperor adjusted the ward around him and stared at him for a long moment. Boashan stood behind him, gazing at her beautiful grandson with tears in her eyes.
"Every now and then, I have to strengthen the ward around him," the Jade Emperor said softly. "His mate has been calling his soul ever since you brought him here."
He sighed again. "That mortal never tires of summoning his lover's soul. I feel pity for him, but he must wait. I will try to see if I can wake him in fewer years." He was now referring to Wei Ying.
"But I must admit, your grandson has started to admire me. I think I am fond of him now. His life is the kind of life that is rarely found these days. He holds no grudges against anyone."
Boashan listened in delight and adoration as the Jade Emperor praised her grandson.
"A-Ying is truly lucky," she thought to herself.
"The mortal realm may be against him," the Jade Emperor continued, "but there are a few who love him sincerely. And his lover, or should I say his soulmate, is something else." He smiled at that.
Boashan's heart swelled with pride. The deity and the Jade Emperor of the Celestial Realm were complimenting her grandson.
"A-Ying is truly special."
"If you want," the Jade Emperor interrupted her thoughts, "you can join me. I'm looking over his past life, unless you have something better to do."
He summoned two wooden chairs, and they sat down.
The Jade Emperor took Wei Ying's right hand in his, and with a wave of his other hand, a projection appeared above them, displaying Wei Ying's past life.
Boashan watched intently, her heart aching and swelling with pride as she saw the struggles and triumphs of her beloved grandson. The Jade Emperor narrated, his voice a soothing presence as they delved into the memories of Wei Ying's past.
Scenes of Wei Ying's childhood in Lotus Pier played out before them. They saw him training diligently, always with a smile on his face, despite the harsh conditions. He was a bright and spirited child, full of life and mischief. His bond with his siblings, Jiang Cheng and Jiang Yanli, was strong and unbreakable.
As they moved through his teenage years, they witnessed the beginning of his friendship with Lan Wangji. Wei Ying's carefree nature often clashed with Lan Wangji's strict adherence to rules, but their mutual respect and admiration were evident.
The Jade Emperor paused at a scene where Wei Ying was teasing Lan Wangji, his laughter ringing out. "Even then," the Jade Emperor said softly, "Wei Ying's heart was pure."
****
The sun rose over Lotus Pier, casting a warm glow across the tranquil waters.
Wei Ying stood by the edge of the pier, gazing out at the serene scene, his thoughts a whirlwind of anticipation and excitement. Today marked his eighteenth birthday, a significant milestone that was being celebrated with a grand festival.
Jiang Yan Li and Jiang Cheng had been busy for days, making preparations for the event. Wei Ying's heart swelled with gratitude and love for his siblings, who had always been his steadfast supporters.
Jiang Yan Li, with her gentle demeanor, had taken charge of the decorations and food, while Jiang Cheng had ensured that every detail of the celebration was perfect.
Inside the main hall, Jiang Yan Li was overseeing the final arrangements. The hall was adorned with lanterns and flowers, creating a festive atmosphere. She turned to Wei Ying with a warm smile.
"Xianxian, everything is almost ready. Are you excited?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with affection.
Wei Ying grinned, his playful nature shining through. "Of course, Shijie! I can't wait to see what you and Cheng Cheng have planned."
Jiang Cheng, who had been directing the servants, walked over and gave Wei Ying a mock stern look. "Just don't cause any trouble today, Wei Wuxian. We've worked hard to make this special for you."
Wei Ying laughed and threw an arm around Jiang Cheng's shoulders. "Don't worry, Cheng Cheng. I'll be on my best behavior."
Despite the cheerful preparations, there was a shadow lurking in the background.
Madam Yu, the formidable matriarch of the Jiang family, had never hidden her disdain for Wei Ying. She stood at the doorway, her expression stern as she watched the proceedings. Her disapproval was palpable, but Jiang Fengmian, the head of the family, gently took her hand and led her away.
"Yu-furen, today is a joyous occasion. Let's put aside our differences and celebrate Wei Ying's coming of age," Jiang Fengmian said softly.
Madam Yu's lips pressed into a thin line, but she nodded reluctantly. "For today, I will try."
As the sun climbed higher in the sky, guests began to arrive. Cultivators from various sects had come to join in the festivities, bringing gifts and well wishes for Wei Ying. The atmosphere was lively, filled with laughter and the sounds of music.
Wei Ying was the center of attention, his infectious energy and charm drawing people to him. He moved through the crowd with ease, greeting everyone with a smile and a kind word. His happiness was infectious, spreading to all who were present.
Jiang Fengmian approached Wei Ying, his eyes filled with pride. "Wei Wuxian, you have grown into a fine young man. I am proud to call you my son."
Wei Ying's eyes glistened with emotion. "Thank you, Uncle Jiang. Your guidance and support have meant everything to me."
As the evening approached, the celebration reached its peak. The main hall was filled with laughter and music, the air thick with the scent of delicious food.
Wei Ying sat at the head of the table, flanked by Jiang Cheng and Jiang Yan Li . His heart was full as he looked at the people who had become his family.
When it was time for the birthday toast, Jiang Yanli stood and raised her cup. "To Wei Wuxian, our beloved brother. May your future be as bright as the stars, and may you always find happiness and love."
The hall erupted in cheers as everyone raised their cups in unison. Wei Ying, overwhelmed with emotion, stood and bowed deeply.
"Thank you, everyone. Your kindness and support mean more to me than words can express. I am truly blessed to have you all in my life."
As the night wore on, Wei Ying found a quiet moment to stand by the pier once more. The moon hung high in the sky, casting a silver glow over the water. He felt a presence beside him and turned to see Jiang Cheng.
"Happy birthday, Wei Wuxian," Jiang Cheng said, his voice soft.
Wei Ying smiled and nodded. "Thank you, Cheng Cheng. This has been the best birthday ever."
Jiang Cheng placed a hand on Wei Ying's shoulder. "You deserve it, Wei Wuxian. You deserve all the happiness in the world."
Wei Ying looked out over the water, a hint of sadness in his eyes. "Cheng Cheng, I miss Lan Zhan. It's been almost a year since we came back from the Cloud Recesses, and I haven't seen him since."
Jiang Cheng scowled. "Why are you thinking about him on your birthday?
Can't you just enjoy the celebration?"
Wei Ying chuckled lightly. "I am enjoying it, but… I can't help but wonder how he's doing."
Seeing the genuine sadness in Wei Ying's eyes, Jiang Cheng sighed and softened his tone.
"You're really hopeless, you know that? But hey, if Lan Zhan knew how much you miss him, he'd probably come running here right now."
Wei Ying brightened at Jiang Cheng's teasing, his spirits lifting. "You think so?"
Jiang Cheng smirked. "Of course. Who wouldn't want to see your annoying face?"
Wei Ying laughed, shoving Jiang Cheng playfully. "Thanks, Cheng Cheng."
A few days after the celebration, news arrived that the Wen Sect was summoning all the sects to Qishan. The Jiang family prepared to send representatives, with Wei Ying and Jiang Cheng chosen to go from Yunmeng.
As they packed their belongings and readied themselves for the journey, Wei Ying felt a mix of excitement and apprehension.
He was eager to see what awaited them in Qishan but couldn't shake the feeling that their lives were about to change in ways they couldn't foresee.