Wangxian Forever 💙🐰

Wangxian Forever 💙🐰- Wei Wuxian Needs to be Friend with Uncle

Chapter 12

Wei Wuxian had always known that winning over Lan QiRen would be a formidable challenge.

The stern and principled elder of the Lan Sect, Lan QiRen was not easily impressed, particularly by someone with Wei Wuxian's unconventional past.

But if Wei Wuxian was to truly belong in Cloud Recesses, not just as Lan Wangjee's partner but as a respected member of the Lan Sect, he had to gain Lan QiRen's approval. This realization weighed heavily on him, but it also fueled his determination.

His plan was simple yet challenging: to slowly earn Lan QiRen's respect through consistent, genuine effort. Wei Wuxian started with small gestures, designed to show his sincerity and respect.

Every morning, he would rise early to help with the daily tasks around Cloud Recesses. Whether it was assisting with the maintenance of the gardens, organizing scrolls in the library, or even just being present at morning rituals, Wei Wuxian made sure to be visible and helpful.

However, what really mattered to him were the interactions with Lan QiRen. Wei Wuxian sought out opportunities to engage with him during meals, tea times, or even during quiet moments when Lan QiRen was alone in the garden.

Initially, these attempts were met with polite but distant responses. Lan QiRen would nod or offer brief, non-committal answers, his stern expression rarely wavering.
Despite the cool reception, Wei Wuxian remained undeterred. He knew that the elder’s heart was not easily swayed and that it would take time to break through the walls of formality and reserve.

He began to share stories from his past tales of his time in Yunmeng, the mischief he got into as a disciple, and even the more serious moments that shaped his life. These stories were shared not in an attempt to impress, but to show Lan QiRen who he truly was a man who had made mistakes, learned from them, and was now striving to build a better future.

One particularly cold morning, Wei Wuxian found himself in the library, sorting through ancient scrolls. Lan QiRen entered the room, his presence commanding despite the quiet atmosphere. He glanced at Wei Wuxian, who was carefully placing a delicate scroll back on the shelf.

“Shifu,” Wei Wuxian greeted, inclining his head respectfully. “I was just organizing these scrolls. Some of them are incredibly old, and I wanted to make sure they were properly cared for.”

Lan QiRen paused, his eyes scanning the rows of neatly arranged scrolls. “The history of our sect is preserved in these texts,” he said, his tone as formal as ever. “It is commendable that you take an interest in their upkeep.”

Wei Wuxian seized the opportunity to engage. “I’ve always had a deep respect for history and traditions,” he said earnestly.
“They’re the foundation upon which we build our present and future. I’d love to learn more about the Lan Sect’s history, if you’d be willing to share.”

Lan QiRen regarded him for a long moment before nodding slightly. “Very well,” he said, motioning for Wei Wuxian to sit.

What followed was a rare and enlightening conversation. Lan QiRen spoke of the founding of the Lan Sect, its core principles, and the significant events that had shaped its evolution. Wei Wuxian listened intently, his questions thoughtful and respectful.
As the days passed, these conversations became more frequent.

Lan QiRen remained guarded, but there was a subtle shift in his demeanor. He began to address Wei Wuxian with a touch more warmth, his words carrying a hint of approval.

Wei Wuxian, for his part, was careful not to overstep any boundaries. He was aware that his approach needed to be gradual, allowing Lan QiRen to grow comfortable with him at his own pace.

One afternoon, after a particularly challenging day of training with the younger disciples, Wei Wuxian found himself in the company of Lan QiRen once again. They were in the gardens, the winter sun casting long shadows on the stone paths. Wei Wuxian had been pruning some of the plants, mindful of the elder’s meticulous standards.

Lan QiRen approached him, his hands clasped behind his back. “Wei Wuxian,” he said, his voice breaking the quiet of the garden. “I have observed your efforts to integrate into our community and respect our traditions. Your persistence is notable.”

Wei Wuxian looked up, slightly taken aback by the unexpected compliment. “Thank you, Shifu,” he replied and bowed, his voice filled with sincerity. “I truly want to be a part of this family and show that I am committed to upholding the values of the Lan Sect.”

Lan QiRen’s gaze softened slightly, a rare expression from the usually stoic elder. “It is not easy to win over someone who has seen much of the world and is now seeking to adapt. But your sincerity is evident.”

Encouraged by this breakthrough, Wei Wuxian decided to take a bold step.

“Shifu,” he began cautiously, “I know that my past has been… difficult, and that it might be hard for you to fully trust me. But I want you to know that I am dedicated to proving myself, not just for Lan Zhan’s sake, but because I genuinely respect what this sect stands for.”

There was a long pause as Lan QiRen seemed to consider his words. Finally, he spoke, his voice carrying a weight of both caution and hope. “Respect and trust are earned over time, Wei Wuxian. You have made a good start, but it is consistency and commitment that will truly prove your intentions.”

Wei Wuxian nodded, understanding the challenge before him. “I won’t let you down, Shifu. I’ll continue to do my best.”

As the weeks went by, their interactions grew more natural, the initial stiffness gradually giving way to moments of genuine connection.

Wei Wuxian found opportunities to bring a bit of humor into their conversations, sharing light-hearted anecdotes that even managed to elicit a small, reluctant smile from Lan QiRen on occasion.

These moments, though fleeting, were significant milestones in their evolving relationship.

The turning point came one evening during dinner. The table was set for the usual gathering of sect members, with Lan QiRen seated at his usual place at the head. As the meal progressed, Wei Wuxian noticed Lan QiRen observing him quietly. After a while, Lan QiRen spoke, addressing the room but clearly directing his words to Wei Wuxian.

“Respect and adherence to tradition are the cornerstones of our sect,” Lan QiRen began, his voice firm but not unkind. “However, there is also value in the ability to adapt and grow, as our world changes. It is evident that Wei Wuxian is committed to these principles, and for that, I acknowledge his efforts.”

The room fell silent as everyone absorbed the significance of Lan QiRen’s words.

Wei Wuxian felt a wave of relief and gratitude wash over him. He met Lan QiRen’s gaze and bowed his head deeply.

“Thank you, Shifu,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. “I will continue to do my best to honor the Lan Sect.”

In that moment, a new level of mutual respect was established between them. Lan QiRen had not only acknowledged Wei Wuxian’s efforts but had also extended a measure of acceptance.

For Wei Wuxian, this was a significant step towards building a meaningful relationship with Lan Wangjee’s family, a relationship that would continue to grow and strengthen over time.

As the dinner concluded and the evening drew to a close, Wei Wuxian felt a sense of accomplishment and peace. He had not only made progress in his integration into the Lan Sect but had also begun to forge a genuine bond with Lan QiRen.

It was a journey far from over, but for the first time, Wei Wuxian felt that he was truly on the path to becoming a valued member of the Lan family.