Underneath The Moonlit Night

Chapter 22 - Beyond Curfew: A Shared Journey Through the Cloud Recesses

The following morning, Qing Yi accompanied He Xuan to the Cloud Recesses, keeping a watchful eye on his surroundings to avoid any unexpected encounters with Lan Xichen. As they reached the herbology class, they encountered Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian, who had just returned from a night hunt with the Lan disciples. Wei Wuxian was delighted to see Qing Yi at the Cloud Recesses and inquired about the reason for his visit. Qing Yi explained that he had heard about the Lan Sect's Library from his sister and was eager to explore it to borrow some books.

Lan Wangji graciously agreed to accompany Qing Yi to the library and even extended the offer of using his jade passage, allowing Qing Yi to stay beyond the library's regular hours if he wished. After bidding farewell to He Xuan, Qing Yi departed with Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian to the Sect Library.

Upon entering the library, Qing Yi was immediately captivated by its exquisite design. Books and scrolls were meticulously arranged, creating an atmosphere of scholarly tranquility. He wandered through the sections dedicated to herbology and potions, diving into his reading with enthusiasm. Amid the shelves of knowledge, Qing Yi's attention was drawn to a collection of paintings on display.

Among these remarkable works, a painting depicting the four seasons stood out, its vibrant colors and artistry mesmerizing him. Qing Yi couldn't resist moving closer for a better view. Impressed by the masterful use of colors, he turned to Lan Wangji and inquired about the artist responsible for such a masterpiece. Lan Wangji revealed that all the paintings in the library were the creations of his elder brother, Lan Xichen.

Qing Yi was in awe of Lan Xichen's talents. Not only was he a skilled cultivator, but he had also mastered various art forms. Lost in contemplation as he gazed at the painting, Qing Yi was inspired to compose a brief poem. He requested paper and a brush to ensure he didn't forget his poetic idea.

"Spring blooms with hues of pink, like the sun's warm embrace,
Summer's rain paints in shades of purple, with gentle grace,
Golden leaves of Fall, like nature's artwork rare,
Winter's white canvas, drifting gently through the air."

He carefully wrote down the verses, appreciating the inspiration he had found in this haven of knowledge and artistry.

The poem vividly depicted the colors present in Lan Xichen's Four Seasons painting. As Qing Yi recited the verses, both Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian were impressed by how accurately they captured the essence of the artwork. When Lan Wangji suggested that Qing Yi write each verse next to the corresponding season in the painting, Qing Yi initially hesitated, concerned that it might detract from the overall beauty of the piece.

However, Lan Wangji shook his head and offered a different perspective. "Your beautifully written words would enhance the painting, rather than detract from it," he remarked, his calm demeanor making his words all the more convincing.

Qing Yi then proposed the idea of having Lan Wangji write the poem using his handwriting, but Lan Wangji declined, complimenting Qing Yi's own beautiful penmanship. Instead, he suggested that Qing Yi personally inscribe the poem onto the painting using calligraphy, as the poem had originated from his own thoughts. They dedicated a substantial amount of time to practicing their calligraphy skills until Qing Yi felt confident enough to write the four verses of his poem next to each season in the painting.

As they worked on this collaborative project, time seemed to flow effortlessly, and the hours passed quickly. With the sun beginning its descent, Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian bid their farewells, leaving Qing Yi surrounded by the library's shelves, still lost in the world of literature and calligraphy.

Today marked another anniversary of Jin Guangyao's passing, a solemn occasion that never failed to evoke memories of the tragic incident that had affected Lan Xichen two years earlier. On this particular night, Lan Xichen found himself restless, unable to find solace within the confines of his bedchamber. Instead, he was drawn to the tranquility offered by the front porch of his quarters.