The Cloud Recesses, usually serene and orderly, were now buzzing with activity. Preparations for the impending marriage of Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian had begun in earnest, sending waves of curiosity and excitement through the disciples and elders alike.
Lan Xichen, ever the mediator, took charge of organizing the event. He met with Elder Lan and Lan Qiren to outline the ceremony's structure, ensuring the traditions of the Lan clan were upheld. Despite his distaste for the situation, Lan Qiren begrudgingly complied, though he muttered frequently about the disruption to their quiet lives.
Meanwhile, Wei Wuxian had taken it upon himself to inject some of his trademark enthusiasm into the process.
"Lan Zhan," Wei Wuxian called out as he strode into their quarters, holding a scroll filled with sketches. "Look at this! I thought of adding a little splash of color to your boring white wedding robes. Maybe some red embroidery, what do you think?"
Lan Wangji looked up from his writing, his expression calm. "Traditions dictate white robes for the ceremony."
Wei Wuxian pouted dramatically. "But Lan Zhan, it's *our* wedding. Shouldn't we mix things up a bit? A little personal flair?"
Lan Wangji's gaze softened, though his voice remained steady. "You may choose the embellishments for your robes."
Wei Wuxian's eyes lit up. "Really? You're too good to me, Hanguang-jun."
When Lan Wangji returned to his writing, Wei Wuxian leaned closer and peeked over his shoulder. "What are you working on so diligently?"
"The guest list," Lan Wangji replied.
Wei Wuxian chuckled. "Ah, I see. So meticulous. I bet you even have everyone seated by personality type."
Lan Wangji paused for a moment, as if considering something. "Zewu-jun is managing the seating."
Wei Wuxian burst into laughter, earning a rare, faint upward curve of Lan Wangji's lips.
---
At the Grand Hall
Lan disciples bustled about under Lan Xichen's guidance, decorating the main hall with pristine white lanterns adorned with the Lan clan crest. Despite the apparent calm, whispers traveled among the juniors.
"Is it true Wei-qianbei insisted on adding red to the decorations?" one whispered.
Another giggled. "He's bold, isn't he?"
Nearby, Elder Lan supervised with a wise smile. "Change is good. Let this marriage remind us that traditions must evolve to stay meaningful."
Lan Qiren scowled but said nothing, focusing instead on finalizing the list of ceremonial rites.
---
Back in Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji's Quarters
Later that evening, Jiang Yanli arrived with a bundle of lotus root pastries. Her warm smile lit up the room as Wei Wuxian ran to greet her.
"Shijie! You made it!" Wei Wuxian exclaimed, hugging her tightly.
"Of course, A-Xian. How could I miss helping with my little brother's wedding preparations?" she said, her voice tender. She turned to Lan Wangji, offering a slight bow. "Lan Wangji-xiong, congratulations. A-Xian seems happier than I've seen him in years."
Lan Wangji inclined his head, his voice gentle. "Thank you, Jiang-guniang."
Jiang Yanli unpacked the pastries, urging Wei Wuxian to eat. "It's good to see you enjoying yourself, A-Xian. Are you ready for this new chapter in your life?"
Wei Wuxian hesitated, then glanced at Lan Wangji, who returned his look with calm certainty. "I think I am," Wei Wuxian said, his voice soft but resolute.
Jiang Yanli smiled. "Then everything will be fine."
---
Two Days Later
The preparations were nearly complete. The grand hall shone with a mix of the Lan clan's characteristic serenity and Wei Wuxian's playful touch. Red lanterns interspersed with white, and arrangements of lotus flowers stood beside elegant plum blossoms—a subtle nod to both Wei Wuxian's roots and the Lan clan's heritage.
As the sun dipped behind the mountains, casting a golden hue over the Cloud Recesses, Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian stood side by side, looking out over the tranquil scene.
"Do you think it's too much?" Wei Wuxian asked, gesturing at the decorations.
"No," Lan Wangji said, his voice low. "It is perfect."
Wei Wuxian grinned, leaning against him. "Well, Lan Zhan, ready or not, we're about to give your family the wedding of a lifetime."
Lan Wangji turned to him, his golden eyes unwavering. "As long as you are by my side, I am ready for anything."
The preparations were done. All that remained was the ceremony—a union that would mark the beginning of a journey neither would face alone.