Changing Fates: The Second Chance [under editing]

Chapter 26: A Union of Souls

The day of Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji's wedding arrived with the gentle touch of spring, the soft breeze carrying the scent of blooming flowers and fresh mountain air. Cloud Recesses had been transformed into a vision of tranquility, with ribbons of white and red adorning the halls and gardens. The entire cultivation world had gathered, their old wounds now healed, and their hearts filled with joy for the union of two souls who had weathered the storm together.

The ceremony itself was simple, as Lan Wangji preferred, but elegant, as Wei Wuxian had wanted. The courtyard was filled with guests—family and friends from every clan, including the Jiang, Nie, Jin, and even the remnants of the Wen clan. Laughter and light conversation filled the air, a stark contrast to the battles they had all endured not too long ago.

Wei Wuxian stood in his room, adjusting his robes in front of a mirror, his reflection looking back at him with an expression of disbelief. He couldn’t believe that this day had finally come. He’d been through so much—lost everything, only to find love in the one person who had always been by his side.

Jiang Cheng walked in, his usually stern face softened with a rare smile. “You look like you’re about to run away.”

Wei Wuxian laughed, though he still felt a flutter of nervousness in his chest. “Run away? From Lan Zhan? I don’t think I could even if I tried.”

Jiang Cheng snorted. “Good. I didn’t go through all of this trouble for you to back out now.”

Wei Wuxian grinned, turning to face his brother. “I know. It’s just... I never thought I’d make it here. After everything...”

Jiang Cheng placed a hand on his shoulder, his eyes serious. “You deserve this happiness, Wei Wuxian. After everything you’ve been through, you and Lan Wangji both deserve it.”

Wei Wuxian smiled gratefully. “Thanks, Jiang Cheng. That means a lot coming from you.”

With a final nod, Jiang Cheng left the room, leaving Wei Wuxian alone with his thoughts. He took a deep breath and glanced at himself one last time in the mirror. His red wedding robes were a symbol of joy and prosperity, the color bright and warm against his skin. He smiled softly. “I guess it’s time.”

Outside in the courtyard, Lan Wangji stood waiting, his white and gold wedding robes a testament to his calm and dignified nature. Though his expression was composed, there was a quiet anticipation in his heart. His gaze drifted over the gathered crowd, pausing on Lan Xichen, who stood beside Jiang Cheng. They exchanged a silent look, a shared understanding that this day was not just about the union of two people, but the joining of families, of friends, and of the entire cultivation world.

The soft sound of footsteps brought Lan Wangji’s attention back to the entrance, where Wei Wuxian appeared, walking slowly toward him. The crowd fell silent, watching as Wei Wuxian approached, his eyes locked on Lan Wangji.

For a moment, it was as if time stood still. The two of them—who had faced death, despair, and separation—were now standing on the threshold of a new beginning. Wei Wuxian smiled, his heart pounding as he reached Lan Wangji’s side.

Lan Wangji met his gaze, his eyes filled with a quiet intensity that made Wei Wuxian’s breath catch in his throat. “Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji whispered softly, his voice barely audible but filled with emotion.

Wei Wuxian grinned, his usual playfulness returning. “Lan Zhan, you’re not going to cry, are you?”

Lan Wangji gave him a look, but there was a softness in his eyes that made Wei Wuxian’s heart swell. “No,” he said quietly. “But I’m happy.”

“Good,” Wei Wuxian whispered, leaning closer. “Because I am too.”

The ceremony began, led by Lan Xichen, who stood before them with a serene smile. The words spoken were simple but meaningful, drawing from the ancient traditions of their clans and the deep connection between their hearts.

As they exchanged their vows, there was no hesitation, no doubt. Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji had found each other through the most difficult of circumstances, and now they stood ready to face the future together. They clasped hands, their fingers intertwined, a silent promise that neither would let go.

When it came time for the final blessing, Lan Xichen’s voice carried over the crowd. “By the heavens and the earth, the sun and the moon, may your union be blessed with happiness, peace, and eternal love.”

Wei Wuxian squeezed Lan Wangji’s hand, his smile bright and full of joy. “Well, Lan Zhan, we did it. We’re married.”

Lan Wangji’s lips curved into the smallest of smiles as he leaned in, their foreheads touching. “Yes, Wei Ying. We are.”

The crowd erupted into cheers as the two of them shared their first kiss as husbands, their love sealing the bond that had brought them together time and time again.

The reception that followed was filled with laughter, music, and celebration. Jin Zixuan and Jiang Yanli danced together, their eyes never leaving each other’s faces. Nie Mingjue and his brother, Nie Huaisang, shared drinks with the Jin family, while Wen Ning and Wen Qing, sat quietly with the Lan clan, smiling at the happiness surrounding them.

Jiang Cheng stood beside Lan Xichen, watching the festivities with a contented smile. “It feels good, doesn’t it? Seeing everyone like this.”

Lan Xichen nodded, his own smile gentle as he glanced at Jiang Cheng. “It does. Peace suits us all.”

Jiang Cheng hesitated for a moment, then took a deep breath. “You know, I’ve been thinking... Maybe we could have something like this too.”

Lan Xichen looked at him, his expression unreadable for a moment, before his smile grew. “I’d like that, Jiang Cheng. Very much.”

And as the night wore on, with laughter and joy filling the air, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji slipped away from the crowd, hand in hand. They stood together under the stars, the weight of the world lifted from their shoulders, and the future wide open before them.

“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji said softly, pulling him close. “No matter what comes next, we will face it together.”

Wei Wuxian smiled, leaning into his husband’s embrace. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Together, they stood under the sky, their hearts full of love, ready to begin the next chapter of their lives—one filled with peace, happiness, and the promise of a love that would never fade.