Underneath The Moonlit Night

Chapter 2 - Harmony Beyond Boundaries: A Pact with Gusu

With the approaching dawn, the sensation of cool morning dew roused Qing Yi from his slumber. The tranquility of the moment was soon disrupted by the sound of flying swords and an approaching voice. "This young master. We've searched everywhere for you."

Struggling to open his eyes, Qing Yi's gaze landed on two young men adorned in the distinctive white uniforms of the Gusu Sect. They gracefully navigated the air atop their flying swords, drawing nearer to where Qing Yi sat. Rising to his feet, he bowed respectfully in greeting. "Ah, yes. I apologize. I took my cat out to hunt last night and didn't wish to leave her alone in the forest, so I stayed out with her."

A friendly smile graced the young man's lips as he responded, "Would you mind accompanying us back to the Gusu Lan Sect? Our Clan Leader and XianShen would like to have a few words with you."

Tension prickled at the edges of Qing Yi's consciousness, yet he nodded in agreement, his demeanor respectful. He directed Wyntir to stay behind, assured that she could hunt for breakfast and wait outside the Gusu Sect Entrance for him. Qing Yi brushed off fragments of grass and leaves from his silk attire. Despite the previous day's wear and the river's washing, the clothes appeared tidier and more presentable. Having left his hair unbound, his silver-white tresses cascaded down his back, enhancing his simple yet elegant appearance. As he appeared before the two young men, their attention was captivated by his unassuming yet striking presence.

Upon their arrival at the main Gusu Building, Qing Yi gracefully dismounted from the young man's flying sword. He brushed away any residual traces of nature that clung to his clothes, his actions meticulous and self-aware. He caught the youngsters' lingering glances, addressing their curiosity with a self-effacing smile. "Ah, my apologies. I must carry the scent of grass after spending the night in the forest. I hope it doesn't trouble your Clan Leader."

One of the youngsters offered reassurance, his voice congenial. "Not at all, young master. There's no discernible scent on you. In fact, the fragrance of morning grass is rather pleasant, evoking a sense of tranquility."

Knocking on the door, the other youngster announced their arrival. "Clan Leader, Xian Shen, we've found Young Master Koh."

"Send him in," came Qiren's response from within the room.

The door opened, granting access to Qing Yi. As he crossed the threshold, a serene wave of sandalwood fragrance enveloped him, imparting a sense of calm. The room's interior emanated warmth, gradually dispelling the lingering chill of the early morning air. Qing Yi's tense shoulders relaxed, and he continued his entry, passing by intricately adorned panels.

Seated with unwavering posture, Lan Qiren and Clan Leader Lan Xichen savored their morning tea. Qiren's voice carried a note of genuine concern as he addressed Qing Yi. "Ah, Koh Gongzi, I hope you managed to find some rest after all the commotion from last night. It must have been quite overwhelming."

Bowing respectfully, Qing Yi acknowledged their presence. "Thank you for XianShen's concern. I deeply regret the events of last night and offer my sincerest apologies."

Lan Xichen raised his hand in a gesture of reassurance. "Please, do not dwell on last night's incident. Shufu informed me of your presence and your visits. It's an honor to meet a descendant of such a remarkable and rare lineage. If anything, I should be the one apologizing to you."

Recognizing the implication, Qing Yi smiled understandingly. "No need to apologize. The wound has been tended to and is now healed." Demonstratively, he pulled his shirt down slightly to reveal the spot where the sword had pierced his skin, now an unremarkable, faint mark.

"Remarkable!" Lan Qiren exclaimed, visibly impressed. "And this healing powder is the same one you used on me last night, correct?"

Affirming with a nod, Qing Yi replied, "Yes, indeed. It has fully healed now." He pivoted slightly to show the wound on his back, which had similarly vanished without a trace. Lan Xichen, though silent, scrutinized the transformation with keen interest.