Chapter Text
It was a rushed decision to begin traveling to the island at the break of dawn. However, Xingqiu had said there was a significant amount of spirits to exorcise, so I took his word for it. I was apprehensive initially, considering my previous experience with Xingqiu’s trickery; why wouldn’t I be? Still, I don’t think Xingqiu would lie about something as serious as evil spirits.
So, our journey began; I had a full supply of popsicles from Wanmin Restaurant, and Xingqiu had an ungodly amount of books to keep him occupied.
We began our trek with vigor. I was eager to finally exorcise some demons, though it didn’t quite show on my face. It was a practiced method of restraint so as not to indulge my yang energy too much. Even so, Xingqiu could see my excitement; I didn’t miss the knowing smirk on his face as we walked the path.
I hoped that the look was not because he was successful in fooling me. Our walk started peacefully; Xingqiu relayed a story he had recently finished to me. I believe it was a romance story about a chivalrous knight and a maiden. He didn’t say too much about it, requesting that I read it myself.
After Xingqiu finished his story-telling, we fell into a comfortable silence. It felt peaceful, like a gentle stream of water flow. Being around Xingqiu often helps me relax, which is suitable for my condition; he’s like the yin to my yang energy.
We remained in silence, walking side by side until the sun began to set. Xingqiu had brought along a map, always prepared as he is, and pointed out a small clearing we could rest for the night. So we walked inwards, towards a grassy area away from the road. Slabs of rock surrounded the area, making it a secluded place.
“Well, this seems to be a fine place to rest.” I turn towards Xingqiu and nod my head before setting down my gear.
“The stars are beautiful tonight,” Xingqiu says, looking at me. I pause at his unwavering eye contact before looking up at the sky.
“So it is.”
I look back down to see Xingqiu still looking at me; he’s smiling now. I turn away from him and begin organizing my things; I want to get camp set up before we lose any more daylight than we already have. However, Xingqiu appears to have other plans as he hangs his arms around my shoulders, “Yun Yun, why don’t we sleep under the stars tonight. It will save us time in the morning.” I pause my actions, turning to look at Xingqiu skeptically.
“You-” I pause, processing Xingqiu’s suggestion, “you aren’t serious, are you?”
“Chongyun, when am I not serious?” I was baffled at that statement; I turned an incredulous look towards Xingqiu and shoved him off of me.
“Aside from the dangers that we would be susceptible to, I am sure you would complain about the ground being too rough.”
I went back to organizing my supplies while Xingqiu collapsed on the ground.
“Come on, Yun Yun, just this once; the stars are too beautiful not to enjoy a night under them.”
I glance at Xingqiu lying on the ground; I can’t quite believe I am even contemplating this. I step closer to him, my feet parallel to his head, and narrow my eyes. Before I can turn away, my arm is tugged, and I am brought face to face with Xingiu. His eyes have a glint to them; they shine under the moonlight. My resolution wavers, and it is that moment that Xingqiu takes action.
I am pushed, no, flipped to the ground and now lay opposite Xingqiu, our heads side by side. I am stunned for a moment before I regain composer. I feel Xingqiu’s fingers curl in my hair, which stops me from getting up. He must have used his hand to prevent me from injuring my head. However, that bit of kindness is lost with the threat that my hair will be pulled if I try to get up.
I must admit, Xingqiu can also be quite stubborn and cunning.
I decide against struggling; what use is there when I will be the one at a loss. I settle, looking at the stars. Xingqiu has also fallen silent, hand still intertwined with my hair. I yawn as peace settles over me. The day was long and exhausting; I suppose falling asleep like this will be fine. I could preserve some energy for the journey ahead by leaving the equipment packed. With this realization, I am content with falling asleep as is.
My head lulls to the side as I close my eyes.