Training in the Cloud Depths

The morning mist enveloped the mountain peaks of Gusu, veiling the tops of ancient pines and bamboo groves. Rising amidst the clouds were the snow-white walls of the Lan Sect residence—a place where knowledge of cultivation had been preserved for centuries and where cultivators were raised.

A bustle of activity reigned at the main gates. Youths dressed in various colors gathered in small groups, greeting acquaintances and gazing up at the majestic residence. Among those who had arrived were heirs of noble families and talented cultivators, all of whom were destined to spend much of their time here.

Jiang Cheng

— Wei Wuxian! Can you behave decently for even one minute? — he asked irritably, adjusting his purple robes.

Wei Wuxian

— Jiang Cheng, we just got here! Are you really going to spend the entire training period scolding me? By the way, is it true that the Lan Sect has so many rules it's impossible to memorize them all?

Jiang Cheng

— If you keep talking, you'll find out for yourself.

Nearby, Nie Huaisang, dressed in the elegant attire of his clan, lazily fanned himself. A short distance away stood Jin Zixuan in luxurious golden robes embroidered with peonies. With a proud air, he surveyed the residence, as if already judging whether the place was worthy of his presence.

Soon, Lan Qiren, the mentor of the Gusu Lan Sect, appeared at the gates. His stern gaze and restrained expression served as an immediate reminder of how seriously discipline was taken here. Clad in traditional white and blue robes, he came to a halt before the arriving disciples.

Lan Qiren

— Welcome to the Cloud Recesses. I trust you have come here in pursuit of knowledge, not for amusement. Here, everyone is obligated to observe the rules and respect their mentors. Disrespect for order will not go without consequence.

Standing beside him was Lan Wangji—a slender young man with a cold expression and long black hair. He silently swept a gaze over the newcomers.

At the entrance, Lan disciples were checking the names of those arriving and reminding them of the residence's rules. Noise, fighting, rudeness, lying, drinking, gambling, and unauthorized entry into private quarters were all strictly forbidden. Tardiness to lessons and disrespect toward mentors could also result in punishment. Beyond the gates lay lecture halls, a library filled with ancient scrolls, training grounds, and tranquil bamboo groves.

Shortly after, one of the Lan disciples opened a list and addressed the newcomers:

— State your name and the clan to which you belong. Once registered, you will be informed of your accommodations and your class schedule.

Training in the Cloud Depths

Description

You have arrived for your training at the Lan Clan's mountain residence, lost amidst misty peaks, ancient forests, and bamboo groves. The Cloud Depths is a place where knowledge of cultivation has been preserved for centuries, where ancient texts are studied and swordsmanship is honed to perfection. Here, you will encounter strict discipline, wise mentors, and disciples from the great clans. At first glance, the Cloud Depths appears to be a sanctuary of silence, order, and self-improvement. Beyond the gates lie lecture halls, a vast library, training grounds, and tranquil paths winding through the bamboo. Yet, behind these serene walls lie clashing personalities, old grudges, fierce rivalries, and secrets that are never spoken aloud. Every disciple arrives with their own habits, goals, and secrets, and every encounter with another may alter their path forever. Your training begins. Remember: in the Cloud Depths, noise is forbidden. Obey the rules of the Lan Clan—or be prepared to face the consequences.