Fiveteen

The early morning sun cast a serene light over the training grounds of Cloud Recesses. Wei Ying stood before the assembled group, his presence radiating a blend of authority and warmth.

The space was set with areas designated for martial arts practice and tables arranged for crafting and calligraphy.

Wei Ying began the day with rigorous physical exercises, guiding the group through precise movements and drills.

Lan Zhan watched with a proud, stoic expression as their children and nephews followed Wei Ying's commands. Despite the strict atmosphere, there was a palpable sense of dedication and discipline in the air.

"Today's training will be complemented by some creative tasks," Wei Ying announced with a serious tone. "Prepare yourselves for a combination of physical and mental challenges."

The training session included agility drills, tactical maneuvers, and sparring matches. Each participant focused intently on their performance, their movements sharp and controlled. The training was designed to push their limits while maintaining the solemnity expected in Cloud Recesses.

After the physical training, the group moved to the crafting and calligraphy tables. Wei Ying presented the materials: scrolls, brushes, ink, and various crafting supplies. His tone remained professional but carried an undercurrent of enthusiasm.

"We will now shift our focus to crafting," Wei Ying said. "Create something that reflects your personal style and enhances your training."

Participants selected their projects with seriousness. Some crafted specialized training tools, while others engaged in calligraphy. Wei Ying provided guidance on combining traditional techniques with innovative designs.

Lan Hua worked on a new training staff, while Lan Sizhui designed a set of personalized seals. Lan Jingyi and Lan Yu practiced calligraphy, focusing on perfecting their strokes. Lan Li, with quiet determination, worked on creating a decorative yet functional training tool.

To integrate the crafting with their training, Wei Ying introduced a practical challenge: participants had to demonstrate their creations in a controlled environment. The new training tools were tested in practice drills, and the calligraphy scrolls were used in strategic exercises.

The children and nephews showcased their work with a sense of pride and seriousness. Lan Zhan and Lan Xichen observed, providing feedback and noting the improvements in their creations.

As the day concluded, the group gathered for a formal reflection session. They reviewed their crafted items and discussed how their creations had impacted their training. The atmosphere remained solemn, with each participant speaking thoughtfully about their work and experiences.

Wei Ying acknowledged their efforts, praising their dedication and craftsmanship. The session ended with a quiet, respectful tea ceremony, where everyone reflected on the day's activities.

Lan Zhan and Lan Xichen observed with satisfaction as their family engaged in meaningful and productive endeavors. Despite the strict rules and formalities, the day had been one of growth and connection, forging deeper bonds among them.

The grand hall of Cloud Recesses was adorned with vibrant flowers and intricate decorations, a rare sight in the otherwise solemn environment. The wedding of Lan Zhan and Wei Ying had brought a sense of joyous festivity to the usually restrained atmosphere.

As guests arrived, their faces lit up with smiles and laughter. The ceremony began with traditional rites and rituals, performed with great reverence and care. Lan Zhan and Wei Ying stood together, their expressions a mix of solemnity and happiness.

Throughout the ceremony, the atmosphere was lively, filled with laughter and joyful chatter. Guests, including the Lan sect members and close friends, were encouraged to participate in the celebration with enthusiasm. The strict rules of Cloud Recesses were set aside for this occasion, allowing everyone to express their happiness freely.

The banquet table was overflowing with an array of exquisite dishes, each prepared with the finest ingredients. Although alcohol was not served, the feast was complemented by an assortment of non-alcoholic beverages and delicacies. The lively music and performances added to the celebratory mood.

Traditional dances and games were organized, with Wei Ying and Lan Zhan participating alongside their guests. Laughter echoed through the hall as everyone enjoyed the various entertainment activities. The atmosphere was filled with cheerful noise and the clinking of glasses as people toasted with their non-alcoholic drinks.

Wei Ying shared a special moment with his children and nephews, who were dressed in their finest attire. Lan Hua, Lan Sizhui, Lan Li, Lan Jingyi, and Lan Yu gathered around, their excitement evident. They presented their handmade gifts to the newlyweds, each item reflecting their affection and creativity.

Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng, though not together, engaged in warm conversations with the guests. Jiang Cheng, despite the past, was treated with respect and included in the celebrations. The past was left behind, and the focus was on celebrating the union of Lan Zhan and Wei Ying.

As the evening drew to a close, Lan Zhan and Wei Ying shared a quiet, intimate moment amidst the joyful chaos. They exchanged heartfelt vows and promises for their future together, their bond strengthened by the love and support of their family and friends.

The wedding was a beautiful blend of tradition and personal touches, a celebration that honored both the past and the future. Laughter and joy filled the air, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

As the wedding celebrations wound down and the night deepened, Lan Zhan and Wei Ying finally found themselves alone in their quarters.

The soft glow of lanterns bathed the room in a warm light, casting gentle shadows on the walls.

Wei Ying, ever playful, slipped out of his wedding robes with a smirk.

"Wei Ying," Lan Zhan murmured, a rare smile tugging at his lips as he approached his husband.

But before they could enjoy their first moment as a married couple, a sudden knock on the door interrupted them.

Both froze, glancing at each other with wide eyes.

"Baba! Mama!" Lan Hua's voice called from outside, followed by a stifled giggle.

"We want to say goodnight!" Lan Sizhui's calm voice added, though there was a hint of amusement in it.

Wei Ying groaned, covering his face with his hands. "Our children have the worst timing," he whispered, though he couldn't hide the smile that crept onto his face.

Lan Zhan, still in his composed demeanor, walked to the door and cracked it open. "It's late. You should be in bed."

"But we wanted to see Mama and Baba before we sleep," Lan Li piped up, her voice full of mischief.

Sensing that they wouldn't be able to continue until the children were satisfied, Wei Ying chuckled and nodded to Lan Zhan. "Alright, let them in."

Lan Zhan sighed, but stepped aside, allowing their three children to rush in, their eyes twinkling with playful energy.

"We just wanted to give you this," Lan Hua said, pulling out a small pouch. "It's a gift from us."

Curious, Wei Ying opened the pouch and found a set of beautiful hairpins, each one crafted with delicate detail. He smiled warmly, his heart swelling with love for his children.

"Thank you, my little rascals," Wei Ying said, pulling them into a hug. Lan Zhan watched with fondness, his expression softening as he took in the scene.

Lan Sizhui, ever the responsible one, took the lead. "We'll let you rest now. Goodnight, Baba, Mama."

As the children finally left, closing the door behind them, Wei Ying sighed in relief. "I thought they'd never leave."

Lan Zhan stepped closer, wrapping his arms around Wei Ying's waist. "Shall we continue where we left off?"

But before they could even share a kiss, a loud burst of laughter echoed from the hallway, followed by the sound of running feet.

Wei Ying and Lan Zhan exchanged exasperated glances.

"I thought laughter and running was forbidden in Cloud Recesses," Wei Ying teased, leaning into Lan Zhan.

"It is," Lan Zhan replied, a rare chuckle escaping him, "but exceptions can be made."

Finally, they shared a tender kiss, knowing that, even with their mischievous children around, they had a lifetime of love and joy ahead of them.

After the children finally left, Wei Ying leaned back against Lan Zhan's chest, sighing contentedly as his husband's arms wrapped around him. "You know," he began with a mischievous glint in his eye, "we might have to lock the door next time."

Lan Zhan, who was usually so serious, couldn't help but chuckle. "I will remember that."

Just as they were about to resume where they left off, they heard a soft rustling from the window.

Both of them paused, eyes darting to the source of the sound. The curtains fluttered slightly, and before Lan Zhan could react, a tiny head poked through.

"Mama, Baba!" Lan Li whispered loudly. "I forgot to say I love you!"

Wei Ying burst out laughing, while Lan Zhan groaned, shaking his head. "Lan Li, you should be in bed," Lan Zhan scolded gently, but his tone held no real bite.

Lan Li grinned sheepishly. "But I wanted to make sure! Goodnight!" With that, she disappeared just as quickly as she had appeared.

Wei Ying was still laughing as Lan Zhan pulled him closer. "Our children are something else," Wei Ying said, wiping a tear from the corner of his eye. "I can't believe they're so sneaky!"

"They take after you," Lan Zhan replied dryly, though there was a soft smile on his lips.

As they finally settled into bed, Lan Zhan reached out, his hand brushing against Wei Ying's cheek. "Are you ready for some peace and quiet?"

But before Wei Ying could answer, there was a soft knock on the door again. Both of them froze, staring at each other in disbelief.

"Not again," Wei Ying groaned, burying his face in Lan Zhan's chest.

This time, it was Lan Sizhui's voice, polite and calm as ever. "Baba, Mama, I just wanted to remind you that Uncle Nei Huaisang is staying the night in the guest quarters."

Wei Ying looked up at Lan Zhan, wide-eyed. "I completely forgot he was here!"

Lan Zhan sighed, clearly trying to maintain his composure. "Thank you, Sizhui. We will see him tomorrow."

There was a pause, and then Sizhui's voice came again, softer this time. "Goodnight, Baba, Mama. I love you."

Wei Ying's heart melted. "We love you too, A-Yuan," he called back.

Finally, silence fell over the Jingshi, and Wei Ying and Lan Zhan were left alone.

Wei Ying turned to his husband with a playful grin. "Well, that was quite the eventful evening."

Lan Zhan, ever composed, pulled Wei Ying closer, resting his forehead against his. "They are our joy," he murmured. "But now, let's enjoy some peace, just the two of us."

Wei Ying smiled softly, feeling the warmth of Lan Zhan's love surrounding him. "I wouldn't have it any other way."

As they finally settled into each other's arms, the room quieted down, filled only with the soft sounds of their breathing and the contented peace of being together at last.

But just as they were about to drift off, they heard a faint whisper from the hallway: "Do you think Baba and Mama are sleeping now?"

"Shhh, they'll hear us!"

Wei Ying couldn't help but laugh again, burying his face in Lan Zhan's shoulder. "We'll never have a quiet moment, will we?"

Lan Zhan sighed, though a smile tugged at his lips. "Not with our children."

"Maybe we should just let them sleep in here tonight," Wei Ying suggested jokingly.

Lan Zhan shook his head, pulling Wei Ying closer. "No, tonight is for us."

Finally, with their children settled, the couple found themselves alone at last. Lan Zhan leaned in, capturing Wei Ying's lips in a soft, lingering kiss, sealing their love and the promise of a lifetime together.