A week before the wedding, an invitation arrives. The stationary is of good quality, the writing is Jin Guangyao's impeccable calligraphy, and each opens to an exquisitely painted inkwash landscape by Lan Xichen's own hand.
You are cordially invited to the wedding reception of Jin Guangyao and Lan Xichen on the date of February 14th at two in the afternoon.
Formal attire is neither required nor encouraged.
The Siheyuan is very tidy. It's always been very tidy; both occupants are particular about cleanliness, but right now, it is guest ready tidy. Furniture has been rearranged so that there's room for anyone and everyone to make themselves comfortable by the firepit. Flower arrangements (gold peonies and gentians) have been tastefully set out around the space. The floors are clean enough to eat off of (fortunately there are still tables, but, you know. If you wanted to.). Not so much as a spec of dust dares to make an appearance, lest Jin Guangyao incinerate it with a glare.
It is a rather modest reception, but they prefer things to be understated.
They did, however, splurge a bit on food and ordered a gorgeous spread from a set of caterers - most of it is traditional, a mix of vegan-friendly dishes, and spicier fare that is very much the favoured foods of a young boy growing Yunping City. There is some more modern treats as well: Xichen in particular insisted on the cinnamon buns and chocolate fountain (it is Jin Guangyao who may be notorious for deploying weapons-grade puppy eyes, but Xichen is no slouch in that department either, especially given how he has the element of surprise).
So yes. There is a chocolate fountain. Xichen consistently surveys it like a proud parent because this sort of tomfoolery would never be tolerated at a proper Gusulan wedding. His Little Jewel is singing. Lan Xichen is living.
...Alas, a formal apology to people's ribs may be in order, as everyone who walks through that door will eventually have to contend with a hug from Xichen. Why yes, this man could benchpress a boulder for funsies, why do you ask? (Look, between the small sip of wine he had when he and Jin Guangyao took their bows, and the Coldblood effects of February, the emotions are hitting him hard.) Jin Guangyao is more reserved, of course, but no less warm in his greetings, peppering in compliments.
The happy couple putter about, making sure their guests are fed and enjoying themselves. It is, for the first time in many, many years, a good day for them.
Reception Inception (February 14th, Closed to JGY and LXC's close CR)
Formal attire is neither required nor encouraged.
The Siheyuan is very tidy. It's always been very tidy; both occupants are particular about cleanliness, but right now, it is guest ready tidy. Furniture has been rearranged so that there's room for anyone and everyone to make themselves comfortable by the firepit. Flower arrangements (gold peonies and gentians) have been tastefully set out around the space. The floors are clean enough to eat off of (fortunately there are still tables, but, you know. If you wanted to.). Not so much as a spec of dust dares to make an appearance, lest Jin Guangyao incinerate it with a glare.
It is a rather modest reception, but they prefer things to be understated.
They did, however, splurge a bit on food and ordered a gorgeous spread from a set of caterers - most of it is traditional, a mix of vegan-friendly dishes, and spicier fare that is very much the favoured foods of a young boy growing Yunping City. There is some more modern treats as well: Xichen in particular insisted on the cinnamon buns and chocolate fountain (it is Jin Guangyao who may be notorious for deploying weapons-grade puppy eyes, but Xichen is no slouch in that department either, especially given how he has the element of surprise).
So yes. There is a chocolate fountain. Xichen consistently surveys it like a proud parent because this sort of tomfoolery would never be tolerated at a proper Gusulan wedding. His Little Jewel is singing. Lan Xichen is living.
...Alas, a formal apology to people's ribs may be in order, as everyone who walks through that door will eventually have to contend with a hug from Xichen. Why yes, this man could benchpress a boulder for funsies, why do you ask? (Look, between the small sip of wine he had when he and Jin Guangyao took their bows, and the Coldblood effects of February, the emotions are hitting him hard.) Jin Guangyao is more reserved, of course, but no less warm in his greetings, peppering in compliments.
The happy couple putter about, making sure their guests are fed and enjoying themselves. It is, for the first time in many, many years, a good day for them.