Underneath The Moonlit Night

Chapter 15 - Veiled Potions: Crafting Secrets in Khufu

In the weeks following Jing Xiang's departure to Gusu Sylvatica, back in Khufu, Wen Ning diligently investigated the western valley to address Prince Kai Ze's concerns about the disturbances, as per Qing Yi's request. Focusing particularly on the region surrounding Serpent's Shade, Wen Ning sensed an unsettling atmosphere upon entering the town. As he strolled through the concrete roads, the townsfolk cast unfriendly stares in his direction, raising his suspicions.

Approaching a random woman, Wen Ning inquired, "Excuse me, miss. I heard there were children missing in this town. Is there any way you can tell me more about those missing children?"

The lady shot him a suspicious look and replied, "Oh yes... those children are indeed missing. Very unfortunate indeed." With that, she walked off, leaving Wen Ning perplexed and uneasy.

Throughout his stay in the town, the residents continued to observe him, making him increasingly uncomfortable. Subsequently, another townsperson approached him, voicing their apprehensions. "Excuse me, sir, but our town is quite impoverished, and... we're uncertain if we can provide you with the most comfortable accommodations. Therefore, if it's acceptable to you, kindly refrain from staying here for more than a day."

Wen Ning politely responded, "I apologize. I shall leave now. Very sorry about your missing children; I hope you'll find them soon," Wen Ning exited the town but sensed an unsettling aura.

Choosing to resume his investigation under the cloak of night for increased discretion, Wen Ning concealed himself atop a lofty house rooftop. In the hushed nocturnal air, a disconcerting spectacle unfolded in the town's heart—a sprawling campfire surrounded by individuals adorned in ominous cultist robes. Guided by a shaman's eerie incantations, the group encircled three carts bearing cages filled with sobbing children. Following the ritualistic chants, the assembly departed Serpent's Shade, transporting the distressed children on carts deep into the valley. Their journey culminated before a cave entrance, where the shaman engaged in unintelligible dialogue, seemingly communicating with an otherworldly entity within. As the group commenced releasing the terrified children into the abyssal cave, the anguished cries of the terrified children propelled Wen Ning into immediate action.

Revealing himself, Wen Ning initiated an assault on the group. The shaman hastily ordered his fighters to defend, but they proved no match for Wen Ning's formidable skills. Desperate to escape, the shaman released the children from the cages and fled with the other cultists. In the ensuing chaos, terrified children scattered in all directions, disorienting Wen Ning. Despite his initial inclination to pursue the shaman, Wen Ning prioritized rescuing the children. He swiftly caught up with each child, providing comfort and assurance. The children, feeling secure with Wen Ning, quickly clung to him for protection. He reassured them and skillfully guided them out of the valley.

As Wen Ning guided the group of terrified children halfway to Khufu's Military Training Camps, they unexpectedly encountered Prince Kai Ze's patrols and the Prince himself, en route to Serpent's Shade. Observing a strange, pale man leading a group of children away from Serpent's Shade, Prince Kai Ze grew triggered and alarmed. Alongside his soldiers, he approached Wen Ning with a stern command.

"Halt! Who are you, and where are you taking these children?" Prince Kai Ze questioned.

With a calm demeanor, Wen Ning replied, "Greetings, Your Highness. I'm pleased we ran into you. I am Wen Ning, and my intention was to take these children back to your military camp for their safety."

Recognizing the direction they were coming from, Prince Kai Ze continued, "Are these the missing children from Serpent's Shade?"

"Indeed, Your Highness," Wen Ning willingly confirmed.