Underneath The Moonlit Night

Chapter 3 Shadows Beneath Moonlight

The return trip took more than a day, with a lush oasis providing a much-needed resting spot before they ventured into the desert. After finally arriving home in the rainforest of Khufu, Qing Yi wasted no time in recounting his encounter in Gusu to his mother and sister. Their initial reluctance was understandable, given the unfamiliarity of the situation. However, Qing Yi passionately expressed his belief in the trustworthiness of the Gusu Lan Sect and the benefits their offer held for their tribe. He emphasized the abundance of medicinal herbs within Gusu's lush forests and the possibility of relocation under certain conditions.

His mother and sister exchanged glances, their skepticism still evident. Qing Yi's determination, though, began to sway them. He outlined the potential advantages, explaining how this move could lead to their tribe's growth and prosperity. Slowly but surely, he managed to chip away at their reservations, painting a vivid picture of a new life they could lead within the welcoming embrace of Gusu's forests.

"Mother, I implore you to trust me in this matter. These people from the Gusu Lan Sect are remarkably different from the Khufu royals. Their Clan Leader radiates kindness and compassion. He's genuinely open to allowing us to dwell in their forests, provided we share our healing knowledge with them. I urge you and Jing Shi to accompany me to meet them, to witness firsthand the warmth and generosity they exude."

"Mother, the prospect is worth considering. Our forest is ailing, and its condition threatens our very existence. Survival necessitates change. We owe it to our people to explore this opportunity," Jing Shi chimed in, lending her support to her brother's plea.

Yu Yan, torn between her responsibilities and her family's future, raised the concern of those left behind. "And what of Jing Xiang and you, Qing Yi, or the palace staff? Are we to forsake them?"

"For now, yes. Rest assured, Mother, I'll look after them. Staying here is no longer sustainable; relocation is our best chance for survival," Qing Yi assured her.

With a mixture of resignation and hope, Yu Yan conceded, "Very well. I shall journey with you up North and meet these potential hosts. I can only hope that they possess the decency you claim."

Qing Yi's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm, his words brimming with eagerness. "I assure you, Mother, they are genuinely kind souls. Moreover, the Clan Leader appears to be around Jing Shi's age or slightly older. He's unmarried, and his appearance is rather striking. If you find the new area in Gusu agreeable, perhaps we can consider a union of our houses in the future."

Yu Yan, practical and cautious, tempered his excitement. "Let's not rush into anything prematurely. Our focus should be on assessing the land and the situation. We'll decide on alliances later. Rest now, Qing Yi. We'll depart at dawn tomorrow."

Qing Yi nodded to his mother as she walked away, then turned to his sister, Jing Shi.

"You should come too. See how beautiful the forest is."

Jing Shi gave her brother a knowing look, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "So, a very striking Clan Leader who is currently single, huh?"

Qing Yi felt a warmth rise to his cheeks, a subtle blush giving him away. "Yes... He's quite handsome. I happened to encounter him playing his flute on a balcony one night. It was mesmerizing."

Jing Shi's smile deepened, and she playfully moved closer to her brother. "Oh? It sounds like someone's heart is fluttering."

Qing Yi's blush deepened, and he let out a nervous laugh. "Is it that obvious?"

Jing Shi gently patted his shoulder. "Well, you're not usually this interested or affected by someone. It's written all over your face."

A shadow crossed Qing Yi's expression. "But I can't really pursue anything. I don't think he shares... my preferences. You, on the other hand, might have better luck."