Underneath The Moonlit Night

Chapter 13 - Beneath the Calm Exterior

As the person turned around to look, Lan Xichen couldn't help but exclaim, "Koh Gongzi?" His voice carried a hint of recognition and politeness. However, the figure shook her head gently and replied, "No, I'm afraid I'm not him."

She turned fully around, revealing her elegant, slender figure with unmistakably female features. With a warm smile, she introduced herself, "Greetings, Clan Leader Lan and Hanguang Jun. I am Jing Xiang, and though I share the same facial features and some physical characteristics with my twin brother, apart from our chests, I am not Qing Yi, unfortunately."

Lan Xichen and Lan Wangji exchanged awe-struck glances. Jing Xiang bore an uncanny resemblance to Qing Yi, from the shape and color of her eyes to her height and even the strands of her hair. The only distinguishing factor was that Jing Xiang is a woman, while Qing Yi is a man.

"An actual twin," Lan Wangji commented in a quiet, contemplative tone, his gaze unwavering on Jing Xiang.

Jing Xiang smiled and nodded in confirmation. "Indeed, we are."

Lan Xichen turned his attention to Jing Shi, recognizing the family resemblance. "We had thought your older sister and Qing Yi were twins, but we never truly considered that he actually has a twin," he admitted.

Meanwhile, Wei Wuxian arrived at the town hall with a group of Koeh youths and Lan disciples. Spotting Lan Wangji and Lan Xichen, he hurried over to join them. As his eyes fell upon Jing Xiang, he couldn't help but voice his doubts, "Qing... Qing Yi? No... there's something different about you..." His sharp analytical mind sensed that something was amiss.

"Wei Gongzi, this is my youngest sister, Jing Xiang. You were correct in your observation. Jing Xiang is Qing Yi's twin," Jing Shi said with enthusiasm. She had been entertaining the idea of introducing Jing Xiang to the Lan clan's people and observing their reactions. She was delighted when Lan Xichen immediately called out Qing Yi's name upon seeing Jing Xiang, as if he were eager to see Qing Yi again. Jing Shi maintained her bright smile throughout the entire exchange.

"Ah, no wonder! If you hadn't mentioned it, I might have thought Qing Yi had changed quite a bit," Wei Wuxian replied, chuckling. "The last time I saw him, I'm quite certain he was a man. This is clearly a woman. Haha."

"It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Wei Gongzi," Jing Xiang greeted.

"The pleasure is all mine, Lady Koh," Wei Wuxian replied.

As everyone made their way inside the main building, they gathered around the council table to delve into discussions about the new town and their future plans. Jing Shi's observant eyes caught a few glances from Lan Xichen towards Jing Xiang. It was evident that Lan Xichen had a fleeting moment of disappointment, as if he had briefly hoped for Qing Yi's presence. However, Lan Xichen swiftly regained his composure, returning to his neutral smile as everyone settled into their seats around the meeting table.

"Lady Koh, do you happen to know when Qing Yi might be returning?" Wei Wuxian inquired, looking over at Jing Xiang.

Wei Wuxian's question provided an opportunity for Jing Shi to observe Lan Xichen's reaction. However, as she closely observed his expression, she found no indication of any particular interest. Her attention then turned to Jing Xiang, waiting for her response. Ever since Lan Xichen learned about the possibility that Qing Yi wouldn't be returning to Gusu for a long time, he had been taking small trips to Gusu Sylvatica during its early constructions to offer his help and check up on things. Jing Shi couldn't help but entertain the idea that Lan Xichen might be seeking Qing Yi's presence during those times. This led her to consider the possibility that Lan Xichen might have some interest in Qing Yi. However, his current composed and disinterested demeanor left her feeling perplexed and unsure about his true feelings.