"Lan Zhan's Love Serenade". (Wangxian)

Chapter 22

The peaceful days at Cloud Recesses were filled with  love, and new beginnings. With the Lan clan's future secured through the birth of Lan Yichen, Lan Zhihao, and Lan Meixue, happiness flourished.

In the midst of this joy, a new, secret love began to blossom. Lan Xichen, the esteemed Sect Leader, had been harboring a secret relationship with Jiang Cheng, the Sect Leader of Yunmeng and Wei Ying's brother. Their bond had grown in the shadows, and they cherished their stolen moments together.

One morning, Wei Ying was strolling through the gardens, carrying Lan Meixue in a sling while Lan Zhihao and Lan Yichen toddled beside him. He happened upon a secluded spot and stopped in his tracks when he saw Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng sitting close, their hands entwined.

"Well, well, what do we have here?" Wei Ying called out, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.

Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng sprang apart, their faces flushing with embarrassment. "Wei Wuxian!" Jiang Cheng exclaimed, trying to regain his composure.

Wei Ying chuckled, adjusting Lan Meixue in her sling. "No need to hide, you two. I think it's wonderful. I knew there was something more than just political alliances keeping you two close."

Lan Xichen cleared his throat, his cheeks still red. "It's... complicated, A'Ying."

"Complicated? More like beautiful," Wei Ying replied, his eyes twinkling. "You deserve happiness, both of you. Just make sure you don't keep it a secret forever."

Jiang Cheng grumbled, though a small smile tugged at his lips. "Mind your own business, Wei Wuxian."

Wei Ying laughed, giving them a knowing look before continuing his walk. "I'll leave you two lovebirds to it. But remember, I'm always here if you need someone to talk to."

Meanwhile, Wen Ning, Wei Ying's loyal friend and soul brother, had taken it upon himself to be the protector of Wei Ying's children. He adored the little ones and considered them his own family. Wen Ning's presence brought a sense of security and warmth to the Cloud Recesses.

One sunny afternoon, Wen Ning was in the courtyard with the children, playing a game of catch. Wei Ying watched from a distance, his heart swelling with gratitude and affection.

"Thank you, Wen Ning," Wei Ying said as he approached. "You're always there for us."

Wen Ning smiled softly. "They're like my children too, Master Wei. I'll always protect them."

The arrival of Baoshan Sanren, Wei Ying's grandmother, brought even more joy to the family. She had come to see her great-grandchildren and spend time with her beloved family. Her visits to Cloud Recesses were filled with stories of the past and wisdom for the future.

One evening, as the family gathered around a fire, Baoshan Sanren held Lan Meixue in her arms, her eyes sparkling with love. "You have built a beautiful family, Wei Ying. I am so proud of you."

Wei Ying, sitting beside Lan Zhan with their sons in their laps, smiled warmly. "Thank you, Grandmother. Your presence makes it all the more special."

Baoshan Sanren nodded. "And remember, my mountain is always open to you. You are welcome to visit anytime."

Lan Zhan added, "We will, and we look forward to it."

Time passed, and the family often visited Baoshan Sanren at her mountain retreat. These trips were filled with laughter, exploration, and the forging of deeper bonds. The children loved their great-grandmother's stories and the adventures they had in the mountains.

Back at Cloud Recesses, life continued to flourish. Lan Xichen and Jiang Cheng's relationship grew stronger, and they began to slowly reveal their love to those closest to them. Their bond brought a new sense of unity between the Lan and Yunmeng clans.