Underneath The Moonlit Night

Chapter 29 - The Chessboard of Power and Loyalty

On their way back to the Cloud Recesses, Su Ju and a few of her skilled assassins discreetly joined the group, keeping a watchful eye on the proceedings. Lan Xichen directed a pair of their disciples to escort the apprehended criminal to the holding cell, while Qing Yi instructed Su Ju and her group of assassins to maintain a vigilant watch around the Cloud Recesses. They were to remain on high alert, ready to respond with lethal force if they detected any suspicious or distinct shadow assassin's maneuvers.

The group then convened in the Lan clan's meeting hall, where Qing Yi formally introduced Prince Kai Ze of Khufu to Lan Xichen and Lan Wangji.

"My sincerest apologies for not conducting introductions earlier," Qing Yi explained. "Given our concealed identities and the sensitive location, I deemed it best to defer formalities. Allow me to now present Prince Kai Ze of Khufu, along with Ze Wu Jun and Hanguan Jun of Gusu."

Lan Xichen chuckled warmly. "You're absolutely right; there's no need to apologize." He then turned his attention to Prince Kai Ze, performing a respectful bow. "It's a profound honor for the Gusu Lan Sect to extend a warm welcome to his Royal Highness, Prince Kai Ze of Khufu. While our Cloud Recesses may pale in comparison to the grandeur of Khufu's palace, I hope you find your stay here comfortable and pleasant."

In response, Prince Kai Ze conveyed his respect to Lan Xichen by gently raising his hand to halt the bow. "Please, Clan Leader Lan, there's no need for formalities with me. Here in Gusu, I'm no prince. Please treat me like any ordinary person. Furthermore, I must extend my deepest apologies for imposing our kingdom's affairs on your sect."

Lan Xichen's smile grew even warmer as he developed a genuine fondness for the prince, admiring his impeccable manners, humility, and respectfulness. It was evident that Prince Kai Ze had received a thorough upbringing in etiquette and discipline.

"In light of this delicate matter, Qing Yi, how do you intend to address it, especially given the involvement of a significant number of shadow assassins?" Prince Kai Ze's scrutiny honed in on Qing Yi, his gaze sharp and inquisitive.

Feeling the weight of the prince's probing eyes, Qing Yi held his ground with a steady stare. "And what, may I ask, are you insinuating, Your Highness?" he responded, his tone firm.

A palpable tension gripped the room as Prince Kai Ze paced, deep in thought. Lan Xichen, Lan Wangji, Wei Wuxian, and Wen Ning observed in silence, allowing the prince to proceed with his questioning. "Who possesses the absolute authority to deploy these shadow assassins?"

Unfazed, Qing Yi maintained his composure, standing with his arms crossed. "That would be His Majesty—the King of Khufu, your father."

"Besides my brother and my father, who else has the capability to deploy shadow assassins?" Prince Kai Ze queried, his unwavering gaze fixed upon Qing Yi.

A knowing smirk played on Qing Yi's lips as he discerned the prince's implication. Wei Wuxian chimed in, seeking clarification, "Your Highness, are you suggesting that Qing Yi may be involved in this?"

All eyes focused on Qing Yi, with Prince Kai Ze's gaze remaining a piercing scrutiny. He spoke, laden with suspicion, "At this juncture, anyone with ties to the shadow assassins falls under suspicion, including Qing Yi." Prince Kai Ze pointed directly at him and continued, "Unless he can provide a compelling reason for his non-involvement."

Struggling to conceal his annoyance, Qing Yi raised his voice in a pointed question to the prince, "Do you genuinely believe I possess the time, resources, funding, and connections necessary to orchestrate such a sophisticated plot, and for what purpose? Why would I involve you in this investigation if I were the mastermind behind it all? Do you think I have that much time to spare?"