Underneath The Moonlit Night

Chapter 58 - Darkness Exposed Behind Closed Curtains

***Trigger Warning: Viewer Discretion Advised***

This chapter contains depictions of illegal activities involving children, including the auction of minors. Reader discretion is advised, as these themes may be disturbing or triggering to some individuals.

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Ghost hesitated for a moment, his resolve wavering imperceptibly, yet he maintained his composure, meeting Lan Xichen's gaze head-on.

"Clan Leader Lan, surely you're not asking me to risk my identity amidst our adversaries in this covert gathering," Ghost responded, his tone tinged with caution.

Lan Xichen's mind flashed to their surroundings, the courtyard filled with shadow figures and whispered secrets. Though inwardly he understood Ghost's concerns, he held his tongue, acknowledging the delicate balance they both tread.

A casual smile graced Ghost's lips as he continued, his voice laced with a hint of wistfulness. "Besides, I doubt whether my true identity would matter to you once this ordeal is behind us."

Lan Xichen's expression remained unreadable, a silent acknowledgment of the truth in Ghost's words. Another undeniable reality check from Ghost prompted yet another resigned nod from Lan Xichen. Ghost's words rang true; indeed, Ghost wasn't an ally but merely a pawn in the grand scheme of another elusive crime lord from a distant domain. Lan Xichen found himself caring less about Ghost's true identity and more about the pressing mission at hand. Perhaps, he mused, Ghost's pointed remarks about his lingering emotions and memories of Qing Yi had momentarily blurred his judgment. Pushing aside all uncertainties and reservations, Lan Xichen refocused his attention on the looming Auction about to unfold.

A few minutes later, an attendant emerged from the depths of the Manor, his voice echoing across the courtyard as he made his announcement.

"Attention esteemed guests," his voice echoed through the night air, cutting through the anticipation like a knife. "The stage has been prepared for tonight's main event. Please make your way inside the Manor's theater."

A ripple of anticipation swept through the crowd as people began to filter inside one by one, like a river flowing toward its inevitable destination. Lan Xichen's group gathered around him, a silent reassurance in their united front. Lan Xichen's gaze sought out his brother Lan Wangji, finding solace in the subtle nod of acknowledgment.

"Here we go," Lan Haoran whispered, his voice barely audible over the murmurs of the surrounding guests, his eyes fixed on Lan Xichen with a mixture of determination and apprehension.

The group fell into step with the throng, following the flow of guests as they streamed into the manor's grand interior. Lan Xichen's gaze lingered on Ghost, who hung back to engage in a hushed conversation with one of the masked attendees, their figures illuminated by the faint glow of lanterns casting eerie shadows on the courtyard.

Observing from a distance, Lan Xichen noted the secretive nature of their exchange, hidden beneath the guise of casual conversation. A silent understanding passed between Ghost and the attendee, their nods signaling the completion of a covert agreement. With a final glance, Ghost detached himself from the conversation and seamlessly merged into the procession of guests making their way inside.

The manor's theater boasted a medium-sized stage, clearly not intended for frivolous entertainment like singing or dancing, but rather designed for the showcasing of important business endeavors. Against the far backdrop of the stage, small, rare vases and statues were carefully arranged on delicate column stands, adding an aura of sophistication to the setting. Dark red curtains draped elegantly above and on either side of the stage, adding a touch of dramatic flair.