Tales of the mystic love

#24 Whispers of death at Shangxiang

The next day arrived, and the carriages arranged by Lui Xiang were filled with anticipation as Xiaobo, Lian, Ming, and Ning embarked on their journey. Ming had convinced Ning to join, hoping his sister would meet and be on good terms with his love, though he had never overtly expressed his feelings. Cui Jing, sensing something amiss about Ning, observed quietly. As they set off with Cui Jing, Lui Xiang, Li Ming, and Zhang Ning in one carriage, Lian requested a private conversation with Xiaobo.
"What's on your mind that you wished to discuss alone?" Xiaobo inquired tenderly, enveloping Lian in his embrace, which she gladly accepted.
It's about my family. They've contacted me, asking me to visit them for a conversation," Lian revealed.
"Have you spoken to them before? When did this happen?" Xiaobo asked, his curiosity piqued.
"No, I have the ability to communicate with them through a mind link, especially when there's urgency or trouble," Lian explained.
"I understand. Do you want to visit them now?" Xiaobo offered his support.
"Yes, our route passes through the Infinto forest, where my family resides," Lian confirmed.
"Very well, we can inform the others that we need to visit my teacher along the way, no one will doubt on that excuse. " Xiaobo suggested, earning a smile from Lian.
Agreeing, they shared a moment of quiet understanding before Xiaobo relayed the plan to the rest of the group during a break by the riverside. With the paths diverging, one carriage headed towards Shangxiang village while the other ventured into the depths of the Infinto forest.
"Xiaobo... the forest..particular my home does not permit entry for humans. Are you okay about it?" Lian voiced her concern, searching Xiaobo's eyes for reassurance.
With a gentle smile, Xiaobo nodded. "I'll wait for you just outside the forest. Don't worry, I'll be fine."
As they reached the entrance of the Infinto forest, Lian bid Xiaobo farewell with a kiss on the cheek before disappearing among the trees. Xiaobo watched her go, a mix of pride and worry swirling within him. Xiaobo watched her run among the trees, reminiscent of the first day he saw her running in the rain. He marveled at his luck and the mercy of his destiny for bringing Lian into his life.
Meanwhile, inside the Rosette, Lian was greeted by a chorus of excited spirits—apples, watermelons, and peaches—all eager to see her.
"How have you been, everyone?" Lian greeted them warmly.
"We've been well, but there's something important we need to discuss about your relationship with the human," Peach spoke up, her tone serious yet filled with concern.
Lian's heart skipped a beat. "What do you mean? Is something wrong?" she asked, her mind racing with possibilities.
As the weary travelers settled into the cozy inn, the atmosphere was filled with a mixture of relief and hunger. Lui Xiang, Cui Jing, Li Ming, and Zhang Ning gathered around a low table in the common area, ready to satisfy their appetites.
Cui Jing suggested ordering dinner, which sparked an immediate debate between the girls and the boys.
"I think we should go for some spicy noodles," Zhang Ning proposed with a grin, her eyes sparkling mischievously.
Cui Jing shook her head. "No, I prefer something lighter, like steamed dumplings. They're much more satisfying."
Li Ming, always the peacemaker, chimed in. "Why not have both? We can order a variety of dishes and share!"
Lui Xiang nodded in agreement. "That sounds like a reasonable compromise. Let's order a little bit of everything."
With laughter and excitement, they set about ordering a feast fit for kings, eager to indulge in a culinary adventure together.
Meanwhile, deep within the Infinto forest, Li Lian stood amidst the ancient trees, her heart heavy with the weight of her secret. She knew she had to confront the spirits, to face their disapproval head-on.
Tiangshe, you know the rules," Peach began, her voice tinged with sadness. "Humans and spirits cannot intertwine their destinies. It goes against the natural order of things."
But Li Lian's determination remained steadfast. "I understand the rules, but my heart cannot conform to them. Xiaobo is the one I love, and I cannot forsake him."
The spirits exchanged worried glances, their whispers growing more urgent. They knew the consequences of defying tradition, yet Li Lian's unwavering resolve gave them pause.
"It is my choice to make," Li Lian asserted boldly. "And I choose love over tradition. I will not allow fear to dictate my happiness."
The old banyan spirit, a venerable presence among them, spoke softly. "Very well, Li Lian. We only want what is best for you. Remember, you will full transform into a human once you reach the age of 26. Until then, tread carefully."
Li Lian's heart swelled with gratitude for their understanding. "Thank you for your concern. Now, if you don't mind, I would like to gather some herbs from the forest. They hold special properties better than the ones in human world that can aid Xiaobo."
The spirits exchanged glances, their curiosity piqued. "For that human?" the apple spirit inquired skeptically.
Li Lian nodded, her determination unwavering. With the banyan spirit's permission granted, she bowed respectfully, expressing her gratitude, before setting off to collect the precious herbs.
As Li Lian bid the spirits farewell, a weight lifted from her shoulders. She had spoken her truth, and they had accepted her decision. With newfound resolve.And as she returned, towards the man she loved, she felt a sense of liberation wash over her, knowing that she was forging her own path, regardless of the obstacles that lay ahead.
Xiaobo stood patiently at their usual meeting spot, his heart racing in anticipation of Lian's arrival. When she finally appeared, a radiant smile lit up her face as she dashed towards him, her arms outstretched. With a leap of joy, she enveloped him in a warm, tight embrace, her heart pounding with love and longing.
Breathless from the intensity of her hug, Xiaobo gently caressed her head, his eyes sparkling with adoration. "What's on your mind, my love? Is everything alright?" he murmured softly, his voice filled with concern and tenderness.
"Yes, everything is perfect," Lian whispered, her voice filled with affection. "I just couldn't resist the urge to hold you close."
Xiaobo's heart swelled with love as he hugged her even tighter, cherishing every moment of their embrace. Together, they embarked on their journey to Shangxian mountain, hand in hand, their love binding them together like an unbreakable bond.
As they reached their destination, Xiaobo and Lian were greeted by the heartwarming sight of Ming and Jing patiently waiting for them. But what truly caught Xiaobo's attention was the radiant smile adorning Cui Jing's face as she leaned in close, her eyes filled with admiration and affection as she listened intently to her brother's words.
Xiaobo couldn't help but feel a surge of warmth in his heart as he witnessed the deep bond between Ming and Cui Jing. A tender smile tugged at Xiaobo's lips as he watched the siblings, feeling a sense of gratitude wash over him for being a part of such a special moment. Ming's gentle words and Cui Jing's radiant smile painted a picture of sibling love that filled the air with warmth and joy.In that moment, Xiaobo realized the true beauty of family bonds, and he silently vowed to cherish his own relationship with Lian just as deeply.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the gathering of friends, Lian approached Xiaobo with a determined gleam in her eye, a cup of medicinal brew in hand.
"Xiaobo, it's time for your medicine," she called out, her voice firm but gentle.
But Xiaobo, raises his eyebrow, darted away with a mischievous grin, weaving through the group of friends like a nimble fox evading capture.
"Ah, Lian, must I endure the bitterness of that foul concoction?" he exclaimed, his voice a playful protest as he danced around the others.
Cui Jing, Zhang Ning, Li Ming, and Liu Xiang watched with amusement, their laughter ringing out like the chimes of a joyful melody. They admired Xiaobo's antics, finding delight in his playful attempts to escape.
"Look at him go!" Li Ming chuckled, his eyes twinkling with mirth as he followed Xiaobo's antics.
Zhang Ning shook her head in fond exasperation. "Xiaobo Gege...he had this side, I never knew" she remarked, her voice filled with affection.
But Lian, undeterred by Xiaobo's antics, continued her pursuit with a patient smile, her determination unwavering.
"Xiaobo, come back here this instant!" she called out, her laughter mingling with the sounds of their playful chase. Xiaobo comes to her like a small puppy and drinks the medicine.
As the effects of the medicine began to take hold, Xiaobo found himself growing increasingly drowsy, his eyelids drooping with the weight of exhaustion.
"Lian, I feel so sleepy," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.
Understanding immediately, Lian nodded in sympathy. "It's just a side effect of the medicine, my dear," she reassured him, her hand gently brushing his cheek. "Ning and I will stay with you while the others go to meet Dr. Mia."
With a grateful nod, Xiaobo allowed himself to be led to a comfortable spot, where he could rest undisturbed.
"Okay then," Lui Xiang continued, turning to address the group. "We are still on the outskirts of Shangxian. We need to meet Dr. Mia quickly. Sometimes the herbs are not with her, and she needs to go into the mountains to bring them for us."
Ming, ever reliable, stepped forward. "I'll go with you," he offered, his expression determined.
Ning, sensing Lian would be alone, stayed close by her.
"Alright, Ming, you go with them," Lian agreed, her voice gentle yet firm. "And Ning, you stay with us. I have something to talk with you."
With the group's roles decided, they split into two, one group venturing off to meet Dr. Mia while the others remained behind to provide comfort and care to their weary friend.
As the gentle evening breeze rustled through the trees, Lian and Ning found themselves alone, the soft murmur of Xiaobo's sleeping breaths the only sound in the tranquil air.
"Lian, may I ask you something?" Ning spoke softly, her voice tinged with uncertainty.
"Of course, Ning," Lian replied, her eyes warm with understanding. "What is it?"
Ning hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Do you think... do you think I love Ming?" she finally asked, her words hesitant.
Lian studied Ning's face for a moment before responding. "It's possible," she said gently. "Ming is very vocal in showing his feelings for you."
Ning nodded, her brow furrowing with worry. "But I'm not sure," she confessed. "I feel... I feel like I'm not suitable for him. Now that he's a crown prince, how can I, a lowly detective, be worthy of him? And marriage... marriage is such a big step in life."
Lian reached out, placing a comforting hand on Ning's shoulder. "Ning, listen to me," she said earnestly. "In matters of the heart, there is no superiority or inferiority. When you love someone, truly love them, you both feel that connection which transcends status or title."
Ning listened intently, her expression thoughtful as Lian's words sank in.
"And remember," Lian continued, a gentle smile gracing her lips, "think about how you feel when you're with Ming. Does he make you happy? Does being with him make you feel safe and secure?"
Ning nodded slowly, but her uncertainty still lingered. "Yes," she admitted quietly. "Yes, he does, but... I'm still not sure. Maybe I'm just afraid of taking that next step, of committing to something so significant."
Lian nodded in understanding, her gaze soft and reassuring. "It's natural to feel hesitant, Ning," she said gently. "But don't let fear hold you back from exploring your feelings. Take your time, think things through, and when you're ready, you'll know what to do."
Ning smiled gratefully at Lian's words, a weight lifted from her shoulders. "Thank you, Lian," she said sincerely. "I'll take some time to think about all of this."
With a nod of understanding, Lian squeezed Ning's hand reassuringly, their friendship a beacon of support amidst the uncertainties of life. And as they watched over their sleeping Xiaobo, they both knew that no matter what the future held, they would face it together, with love and understanding guiding their way.
As the other three enters the Shangxiang village Cui Jing's eyes sparkled with excitement as she turned to her brother, Ming.
"Ming, could we perhaps explore the bustling market together?" she asked eagerly, her voice filled with anticipation.
Ming smiled warmly at his sister, his eyes softening with affection. "Of course, sister"he replied, his voice gentle. "I would be delighted to spend more time with you."
Cui Jing's face lit up with joy as she linked arms with her brother, a sense of nostalgia washing over her at the prospect of exploring the market together for the first time.
Meanwhile, Lui Xiang glanced around at both, a thoughtful expression on his face. With Cui Jing's insistence on spending time with Ming, he realized that he would be the one to go alone to meet Dr. Mia Chen.
Turning to them, he nodded resolutely. "I will go alone to meet Dr. Mia Chen," he announced, his voice steady.
Jing looked at him with concern, her brow furrowing slightly. "Are you sure, Xiang?" she asked, her voice filled with concern.
Lui Xiang nodded, a determined glint in his eyes. "Yes, I am sure," he replied firmly. "You and Ming deserve this time together, after all you have been through. I will be fine on my own."
With a reassuring smile from Lian and a nod of agreement from the group, Lui Xiang set off towards Dr. Mia Chen's residence.
As Lui Xiang entered Dr. Mia Chen's house, he was greeted warmly by the doctor, who ushered him into her cozy study.
"Welcome, Prince Lui Xiang," Dr. Mia said with a smile, motioning for him to take a seat. "It's a pleasure to have you here. How may I be of service to you today?"
Lui Xiang returned the smile, feeling at ease in Dr. Mia's presence. "Thank you, Dr. Mia," he replied graciously. "I've come to discuss about the prescription you gave to my grandmother. Also I need to talk about a disease which one of my friend has. You have high knowledge about all types of diseases and herbs.
As the conversation progressed, Lui Xiang found himself engaged in a stimulating discussion with Dr. Mia, her knowledge and insight proving invaluable to their cause.
However, as they delved deeper into the topic, Lui Xiang noticed a subtle shift in Dr. Mia's demeanor. Her words became increasingly erratic, her sentences disjointed and nonsensical.
"Lui Xiang, have you ever seen... seen a cat with a hat?" Dr. Mia suddenly interjected, her eyes darting around the room with an unsettling intensity.
Confusion clouded Lui Xiang's mind as he tried to make sense of her words. "I'm sorry, what?" he asked, his brow furrowing in perplexity.
But Dr. Mia's ramblings only grew more frenzied, her voice rising in pitch as she spoke of strange visions and fantastical creatures.
"There's a world beyond this one, Lui Xiang," she exclaimed, her words tumbling out in a jumble of excitement and fear. "A world where the stars dance and the rivers sing. Can't you hear them?"
Before Lui Xiang could respond, Dr. Mia's laughter erupted into hysterical fits, her smile widening into a manic grin as tears streamed down her cheeks.
Alarmed, Lui Xiang reached out to comfort her, but before he could reach her, Dr. Mia's laughter abruptly ceased, her body going limp in an instant.
Shock gripped Lui Xiang as he watched in horror as Dr. Mia slumped to the ground, her eyes still wide with madness, a twisted smile frozen on her face.
In that moment, the room fell silent, the only sound the echo of Dr. Mia's final laughter lingering in the air, haunting Lui Xiang as he grappled with the inexplicable tragedy that had just unfolded before his eyes.