The tranquil silence of the Cloud Recesses was broken by the sound of horses' hooves approaching the grand gates. Lan disciples on guard duty exchanged curious glances; the carriage bearing Hanguang-jun had been expected, but knowing he was bringing Wei Wuxian, the once-infamous Yiling Patriarch, left even the calmest among them whispering in anticipation.
Within the carriage, Wei Wuxian leaned back, his head propped on his hand as he gazed out of the window. His other hand rested comfortably in Lan Wangji's lap, their fingers loosely intertwined.
"We're almost there," Wei Wuxian said, his voice light but tinged with nervous energy.
Lan Wangji gave a small hum, his grip on Wei Wuxian's hand firm and reassuring.
"Do you think your uncle has prepared a list of rules for me already?" Wei Wuxian teased, a mischievous smirk playing on his lips.
"Perhaps," Lan Wangji replied, the faintest trace of amusement softening his otherwise serene expression.
Wei Wuxian laughed. "You're no fun, Lan Zhan. You should've at least pretended to defend me!"
Lan Wangji turned to face him fully, his gaze steady. "You need no defense. I will support you."
Wei Wuxian blinked, momentarily disarmed by the sincerity in Lan Wangji's voice. Then, his playful smile softened into something genuine. "Alright, Hanguang-jun. Let's see if the great Wei Wuxian can charm even your uncle."
As the carriage came to a stop, the doors opened to reveal Lan disciples bowing respectfully. Lan Xichen stood waiting at the steps to the main hall, his expression warm and welcoming. Beside him, Lan Qiren's stern face barely concealed his displeasure, though he stood silent out of respect for his nephew.
Wei Wuxian hopped out of the carriage first, stretching dramatically. "Ah, so this is Gusu again! Smells like... rules."
Lan Wangji followed more gracefully, stepping beside him. "Wei Ying," he said softly, a note of warning in his tone.
Wei Wuxian grinned sheepishly. "Alright, alright. No teasing, at least not right away."
Lan Xichen approached them, his smile genuine as his gaze flicked between his brother and Wei Wuxian. "Wangji. Wei-gongzi. Welcome back."
"Xichen-ge," Lan Wangji greeted with a small nod.
Wei Wuxian gave a flourishing bow. "Zewu-jun, it's been a long time. I hope you've been well."
Lan Xichen chuckled. "Very well, thank you." He paused, then added with a kind smile, "And welcome, Wei-gongzi. I am glad to see you both here, together."
"Ah, Zewu-jun," Wei Wuxian said, pretending to wipe away a tear, "finally, someone who isn't glaring at me like I'm about to burn down the whole mountain." His eyes darted playfully to Lan Qiren.
Lan Qiren huffed, his arms crossed. "Wei Wuxian, this is a place of discipline and peace. If you—"
Lan Wangji interrupted him with a calm yet firm tone. "Uncle."
Lan Qiren fell silent, his eyes narrowing slightly, though he made no further comment.
Wei Wuxian, however, couldn't resist. "Don't worry, Lan Qiren. I've already promised Lan Zhan I won't break more than half the rules."
Lan Qiren groaned audibly, but Lan Xichen laughed lightly, diffusing the tension.
"Come," Lan Xichen said, gesturing toward the main hall. "Everything has been prepared for your arrival. Elder Lan has requested to see you both."
As they walked, Wei Wuxian leaned closer to Lan Wangji and whispered, "Elder Lan? Is he the one who foretold we'd end up together? I should probably thank him for his good taste."
Lan Wangji remained silent, but Wei Wuxian swore he saw the corner of his lips twitch ever so slightly.
When they entered the hall, Elder Lan greeted them with a knowing smile. "Hanguang-jun, Wei-gongzi. Welcome. It seems the winds of fate have carried you to where you are meant to be."
Wei Wuxian tilted his head, genuinely intrigued. "You must be Elder Lan! Thank you for not being completely terrified of me."
Elder Lan chuckled. "Terrified? No, young man. I am excited to see what the two of you will bring to our clan."
Lan Qiren muttered something under his breath, but Lan Xichen shot him a calming look.
Lan Wangji stepped forward, his posture straight, his tone resolute. "I have brought Wei Ying here as my chosen partner. He is now part of this family, and I expect him to be treated as such."
Wei Wuxian blinked at the firmness in Lan Wangji's voice, warmth flooding his chest. He reached out subtly, letting their fingers brush.
Lan Qiren shook his head but said nothing more. Meanwhile, Lan Xichen stepped closer, his smile encouraging. "We will welcome Wei-gongzi as one of our own, Wangji. You have my full support."
As the meeting concluded, Wei Wuxian sighed in exaggerated relief once they were alone again. "Lan Zhan, your family is something else."
"They will come to love you," Lan Wangji said softly.
Wei Wuxian's grin widened. "Well, as long as I've got you, I'll survive."
Lan Wangji gave a rare, small smile. Together, they turned to face the new chapter of their lives, ready to navigate whatever challenges came their way—with each other.