６☆ Birthday Date with Sariel - In the Waning Past (旧梦阑珊) | Light and Night 光与夜之恋

Important: Please read through Sariel's Birthday Event Stories for context of this card! Angst and sweetness both exist in this story so get prepared~

Feel free to click on the following to read the respective chapters!

Pre-Quest Story | Prologue | Episode 01 | Episode 02 | Episode 03 | Episode 04 | Episode 05

[Prologue]

I am woken up by the sweet birdsongs.

In a daze, I could see the sunlight pouring through the window frame, the properly placed teacups on the table, and the half dangling gauze curtains by the bedside.

You: Is this place... Right, Rain Island.

With the sounds of the tree leaves rustling in the winds in company, the birdsongs outside the windows are sounding more crisp and alluring. I got up from the bed  to tidy a little, and walked out from the room.

The air in the courtyard is refreshing and cooling. Within the lush bamboo forest, a narrow cobblestone path stretches forward, and a stone table with a couple of stone chairs placed at its end.

Sariel is quietly sitting in the midst of the greenery.

He wore a short, dark-colored, Chinese-styled gown,  with embroidery of a few white cranes spreading their ready-to-soar wings, and cuffs fully embellished with green lotus leaves. In a trance, it seems like a drawing that has been quiet for centuries.

Sariel: Finally awake?

You: Yeah, Sariel, your clothes--

I took a seat opposite of him, and before I get to finish asking, a crimson Qipao is pushed towards me.

You: Qipao? For me?

Sariel: Is there a third person here?

You: But I've brought my clothes here... Speaking of that, why are you wearing a Chinese gown?

Sariel: The Erdas* has been cut off from the mortal worlds in Rain Island for almost a century, their impression towards the mortal world are mostly still from that period. If you do not wish to be the focus of the entire island, then get changed.

*T/N: The Erdas is a made-up term for Sariel's tribe - spiritual beings that are either in forms of animals or trees, usually blessed with a long, long life. 

*T/N, added on 6 Sept: The reason why I have decided to translate 血族 (lit. translation: blood tribe) as 'the Strains' is because they act like vampires and is coming from a long family bloodline, also with a slight reference to the horror series 'The Strain'. As for 灵族 (lit. translation: spiritual tribe) that I've decided to translate into 'Erda', because it's actually a reference to a game I used to play (MapleStory), where you can consider Erda as powerful spiritual beings that comes in various forms, and in the main quest we actually collect emotions and memory pieces to a tree as well! Other translators might translate them differently though!

You: Is that so.

I nodded, and picked up the Qipao on the table. A few red plums are embroidered onto the crimson brocade, golden lining embroidered over the cuffs, with smooth, elegant curve lines, and it does not look old-fashioned at all.

You: Did you make this Qipao?

Sariel: Mm.

You: When you brought me here last night, you acted like you are very familiar with this place, and now taking out clothes that you made yourself... Sariel, is this your home in Rain Island?

Sariel: It's just a place to stay.

You: Then isn't that home?

I'm feeling a little confused, but Sariel did not comment further, only raising his index finger and pointed towards that Qipao again.

Sariel: Why are you asking so many questions? Get yourself changed first.

You: Okay...

I returned to the room and got myself changed, and Sariel's still sitting there when I got out.

You: I'm done changing, how do I look?

I got over tto him, and Sariel only took a light glance.

Sariel: It's alright.

You: Always saying "alright", "not bad", barely passable"...

Sariel: Then what do you want me to say? "Heavenly gorgeous"?

You: Well you don't have to exaggerate to such extents. I'm just wondering, can't you just praise me from time to time?

I muttered in a tiny voice, but I've already gotten used to his demeanor since a long time ago. If it happens to have a day when Sariel would praise me to such exaggerating extents, then something would be VERY wrong!

Lowering my head as I tidied the hem of the dress and by the time I raised my head again, I noticed Sariel is actually looking straight towards me.

You: What's wrong?

Sariel: ... Crimson doesn't look too dull. You look more suitable in this dress than I've thought.

He moved his gaze away as soon as he finished talking, lips pursed into a single line, and it seems like there are bits of redness tinted over his ears.

I stunned for a moment, and only to realize it afterwards that Sariel has answered to my request, and gave it a good thought before praising me.

You: Thank you~

Sariel let out a light "Mm" in acknowledgment, and it took him quite a while to finally speak again.

Sariel: Mm. If you're done tidying, then let's get going.

I caught up with Sariel's footsteps, the hem of his gown is slightly blown upwards by the breeze, and the cranes embroidered on it seemed like they are dancing.

Compared to Greensand Town, Rain Island's scene and buildings are more quaint and natural, and there aren't much pedestrians walking around. I observed the surrounding happenings, and everything feels new to me.

You: Sariel, this wooden signboard isn't deliberately made to look old, right? Is it really having a century of history? The door curtains of that house is so good-looking, but why is the dyeing method so weird? I've never seen that before. Whoa, look at that tree...

Sariel: Should I raise up a tiny flag up and explain them to you, and taking pictures for you as souvenir?

I shyly kept my fingers, and shook my head with an upright posture.

You: I'll not simply look around anymore, I'll leave all the arrangement to the tour guide.

Sariel: Who did you just call a tour guide?

You: It's you who mentioned about raising flags at first.

I pretended to not see his frown, and quickly switched the topic of conversation.

You: Are we going to pick Lizard up now? Do you know where he is?

Sariel rolled up his sleeves a little, then nodded with an unbothered expression.

Sariel: Of course I'd know.

You: This place is so far away from Guangqi city, for what sort of reason would a tiny lizard come all the way here from afar?

Sariel: He'll come here every month, so he's already used to it since a long time ago.

You: Coming here every month, then why are we here to pick him up on purpose?

I got puzzled after hearing that, and suddenly I recalled something, and widened my eyes.

You: I remember now, you said that he has a heart disease!* Could it have collapsed from illness?!

*T/N: In Chapter 7 of Main Story, Sariel made up an excuse on why he appeared under MC's apartment, claiming that he was bringing Lizard to the vet. There's indeed something going on with Lizard (or tbh, all Erdas) but read on and you'll understand.

Sariel: Your ability to think of nonsense have instead gotten better day by day. Heart disease? You've watched too much TV dramas.

You: Didn't you say that in the past...? Did I remember wrongly?

Sariel stunned for a moment, followed by a light frown, and looking quite unnatural.

Sariel: It's you who've remembered wrongly. He doesn't have any issues, and is doing fine--

Speaking of which, he suddenly paused again, with his gaze to the grounds, faintly exuding some worriedness. Did I really got it right? Although he usually looks like a rather unreliable owner, but under such conditions, he's still quite worried for little Lizard after all.

I let out a light sigh, raising an arm to tug on Sariel's sleeves to console him.

You: It's okay, if there's illness then just treat it, vets nowadays are very good now. But as for you guys, should you eat medication for humans, just like when you* were...

*T/N: Chapter 4 of Main Story (read here if required).

As I speak, the image of how weak Sariel looked when he was sick has been appearing in my mind uncontrollably, along with the two fluffy ears. On the next second, a curled up finger have lightly knocked on my forehead.

Sariel: Please don't always associate unrelated things together.

You: I- I wasn't.

Sariel didn't bother to care about me justifying from my guilty conscience, and turned away after letting a light scoff. I quickly followed behind him.

Passing through a  few wooden house and a stone bridge, we've arrived before a teahouse. 

It's a three-storeyed teahouse, with cornice embellished in gold, lanterns hanging all around the four corners, yet there are no signboards hanging on the entrance, and I have no idea what this place is called.

Just when I am examining the teahouse in curiosity, a silver-haired old lady in a Qipao pushed the door open and walked out. She does not seem to be surprised when she saw us, and walked straight towards Sariel.

Old lady: You really came back.

Sariel didn't say a word, only nodded.

Old lady: Then this young lady beside you is...

You: Hello, I'm Y/N.

Old lady: Mm, I know.

She knows? Could Sariel have mentioned about me to her?

I looked at Sariel with a puzzled look, yet he does not seem like he had the intentions to introduce her to me, only looking into the teahouse.

Sariel: Lady Huai, where is he?

Lady Huai: In the inner room.

Sariel: *sigh* How's his condition?

Lady Huai: Let's continue inside.

Lady Huai led uus into the teahouse. The tall space is furnished with many tables and chairs, and only a few customers and waitresses scattered across, with a drama stage of half-person height being set in the middle.

We walked to the back of the stage, a red cloth with a bell tied on it hangs onto the wall, and covered half of the wooden door away.

That wooden door has a very unique pattern, so I can't help myself but to raise an arm and touch it. Suddenly, a strong emotion have wrapped around my heart.

You: ?!

I quickly kept my hand back, looking at the wooden door with lingering fear.

You: About that, is little Lizard inside this room?

Lady Huai: Little Lizard? This way of addressing him... Hahaha. I roughly know who you're mentioning, he is indeed inside.

You: I'm feeling... he seems to be very angry.

Lady Huai stunned for an instant, and Sariel's brows knitted into a frown, then pulled me a towards his back a little with a calm composture.

Lady Huai: Wait. Young lady, the "feeling" you mentioned is?

You: I can't tell it clearly either, but sometimes I can feel others' emotions just like this... For an instant just now, I felt anger.

Lady Huai nodded slightly, settled her gaze, and looked towards Sariel with a serious expression.

Lady Huai: The young lady is right. To degenerate to that kind of extent, he is now completely incapable of suppressing his rage, it took me quite the effort to control him temporarily.

Sariel: Where's the medicine?

Lady Huai: I've sent someone to request for the medicine from the Kui Mansion. But it should be easier for you to get it if you head there yourself.

Sariel took a glance at the wooden door, drooped his eyes and fell into deep thoughts.

I quietly read Sariel's expressions, and decided to--

[Choice: Should I give him a suggestion?]

Calling: Proactively ask Sariel for his thoughts

Listening: Stay silent

Heartthrob (1): Suggest to check on Lizard's condition first

Heartthrob (2): Suggest to pick up medicine from the Kui Mansion

[Choice: Do Nothing]

Although I'm really worried about little Lizard's condition, but since it's my first time here in Rain Island, there are a lot of things that I am still unsure of, it's better for me to not simply suggest things.

I quietly waited. After a while, Sariel's frown have soothed out as he looked towards me.

Sariel: Wait for me outside. I'll take a look inside first, then I'll head to the Kui Mansion.

You: Ah... Okay.

The waiter brought me to the outer hall, and attentively served me some tidbits. The opera on the stage is singing melodiously. Who knows how long it has passed as I sat in the hall.

It's already evening by the time Sariel reappears. Little Lizard is now laying on his shoulder, in deep slumbers.

We returned to Sariel's courtyard together, the skies gradually darkened, dragging the shadows of the buildings on the side into a long one.

[Calling: Proactively ask Sariel for his thoughts]

Although I'm really worried for little Lizard's condition, but since it's my first time here in Rain Island, there are a lot of things that I am still unsure of.

At times like this, it's better to let Sariel to make the decision.

You: Sariel, should we have a look inside first? Or should we go to that... Kui Mansion?

After a short silence, Sariel looked towards Lady Huai.

Sariel: I guess I'll make a trip to Kui Mansion*.

*T/N: Kui (夔) is originally the name of a mythical being in Chinese mythology, and it's also used for names of demon.

Lady Huai: Then how about you, young lady? Do you plan to bring her along, or stay at my place?

Hearing their conversation, it seems like it's very troublesome to visit Kui Mansion. Although I really wanted to be with Sariel, but it's probably easier for him to go on his own.

But to continue staying here... I can't help myself but to look towards the door filled with disturbed feelings, and began to feel a little nervous.

Sariel: I'll send her back first, then collect the medicine later.

Sariel voiced out in just the perfect timing, and helped me to get out of the current situation. I immediately nodded in acknowledgement.

We left the teahouse, and not long after, we've returned to the familiar courtyard.

Sariel departed to the Kui Mansion after sending me back. I sat in the courtyard, looking at the greenery, waiting for his return in boredom.

Unknowingly, the skies have darkened. 

I've waited until I've turned sleepy, so I leaned on the table, and shut my heavy eyelids.

Also unsure of how long it has passed, in a daze, I seemed to hear Sariel's voice.

My body suddenly became light, and very quickly fell into a patch of softness. Then after a while, a faint scent of sandalwood have wafted over to my nose.

Is it Sariel? I slowly opened my eyes, wanting to call him.

[Call him]

[Mutter gibberish]

Sariel: Your sleep talk is special indeed.

The familiar tone of speech made me to open my eyes immediately, and I can immediately see Sariel standing by the bedside with a helpless expression written all over his face.

You: You... I... Weird, why am I on the bed?

Sariel: I have never seen someone sleeping that comfortably while leaning on a stone table.

Sariel turned over and walked towards the table, and began tinkling with the incense burner.

He didn't say a thing, and I don't know what to say too, so I can only move my gaze to the table.

Looking at the fragrance faintly floating from the incense burner, my sleepiness strikes again. I leaned on the pillow, and slowly closed my eyes.

[Call his name (Qi SiLi, in Chinese)]

Sariel: What's wrong?

The familiar voice made me awake right away, and I realized that I've already been laying on the bed since who-knows-when, and am grabbing onto Sariel's sleeves tightly.

You: ?!

I quickly let go of his sleeve, and got up from the bed, looking at Sariel in embarrassment.

You: How did I fall asleep?

Sariel: Don't ask me, ask that to yourself.

You: Maybe it was because I haven't been sleeping well last night, and it was a little boring while waiting for you...

I rubbed my eyes, seeing Sariel have already walked towards the tableside, tinkling with the candle set on the table.

Unknowingly, the skies outside the window have gradually darkened, and a tiny light has lit up in the room.

It was clear that the incense isn't lit, but there has been a faint scent of sandalwood lingering at my nose.

Under such fragrance, through the soot faintly floating from the candles, I looked at Sariel's back, and I felt extremely secure, and slowly closed my eyes once again.

[Call him by a nickname (or call him hubby/ wifey in Chinese)]

Sariel: ... Becoming silly after sleeping too much?

Through the blurry vision, Sariel's figure and voice are seeming a little unreal. I can't help myself but to raise an arm, wanting to grab onto that silhouette.

Just when my palm reached him, he grabbed onto it firmly, and then, another slightly warm hand touched my forehead.

Sariel: What are you trying to grab? I'm right here.

I sullenly replied to him, only feeling the warmth on my forehead very comfortable, and the scent on the tip of my nose is very calming.

You: ... So fragrant.

It smells similar to the scent of sandalwood on Sariel, but there are some subtle differences, it seems to smell stronger, along with a fresh scent of the rain.

I subconsciously held onto the palm, wanting to grab onto this scent tightly in my hands.

You: ... Don't go, stay a little longer.

The warmth from the palm seemed to have struggled a little, but to no avail. So it turned into a muffled sigh.

The sounds of cloth rustling could be heard, and my body sank a little downwards. The scent have indeed became richer.

I moved a little, and after feeling a little more awake, I tried to open my eyes, wanting to search for its source.

Right in that instant, I'm met with that pair of familiar golden eyes.

You: ?!

Sariel: If you wanted to sleep, then lie down properly, why are you acting all surprised?

Right here, right now, I'm lying on the bed, and Sariel's half leaning against the headboard, laying by my side, and with one of his hands being tightly held by mine.

I quickly let go of his hand in panic, and got too embarrassed to look at him.

Just when I was about to use the blanket to cover my face, but I realized that a corner of the blanket is pressed under his body, and I can't pull it up.

You: I- I fell asleep just now, so I was not too conscious... Thank you for bringing me back to the room.

Sariel: I'm just worried that you'd catch a cold, I don't have extra time to pick up medicine from Kui Mansion anymore.

As he speaks, Sariel have already got up, and is about to get off from the bed.

You: Are you leaving already?

Sariel (smirking): You only said to stay for a while just now, why, do you now want me to stay here to accompany you?

You: Uh, no, I...

Perhaps it's because I just woke up, and got scared by Sariel who was so close with me, I am feeling a little dizzy in my head now, and I'm not sure how to express this.

Sariel gazed at me deeply, and let out a sigh.

Sariel: Alright, just sleep if you're sleepy.

He raised an arm to tidy my messy blanket for me, but he didn't leave, and still leaned against the bed.

Not long after, the skies have gradually darkened. The room is dark, yet it's the first time I feel such comfort and secure in darkness.

Sariel's figures moved along with my breath, as I stare at him, I slowly closed my eyes for once again.

[Listening: Stay silent]

Although I'm really worried about little Lizard's condition, but since it's my first time here in Rain Island, there are so much that I don't know about this place, it's better for me to not simply make suggestions.

I waited quietly, and after a while, Sariel have made a decision.

Sariel: Let's go in to look at Qi She's condition first.

Qi She*? Is this little Lizard's name? It sounds like the name of the mythical beast in ''Classic of Mountains and Sea"...

*T/N: Fun fact! In "Classic of Mountains and Sea", there's a country named where the people here have their tongues born upside down, with the root of the tongue is on the lips, and the tip of the tongue grows toward the throat, only their kind can understand what they speak. The Lizard's name, Qi She (岐舌) is also used in idioms, which means one who is always playing tricks on the tongue and speaking capriciously.

I kept thinking on my own, and Sariel's gaze have fell upon me.

Sariel: Wait for me here.

You: Okay... Don't worry, I won't run around!

Sariel: How rare of you to have some self-awareness.

I let out an embarrassed cough, and hurried him to go and come back soon.

The red curtains are lifted up, and Sariel disappeared behind the door with Lady Huai.

I looked around again, and noticed that there's yet another little haven behind the screens, with a table and pagoda on it.

And on the walls on the side of the pagoda, there's a painting of Jiangnan's Misty Rain hanging on it. I can't help myself but to get a little closer, and noticed a poem written on it.

You: "Unreturning swallows on late spring, in cold misty rains apricot blossoms"...

As I muttered, I suddenly got startled, with my gaze now fixed at the stamp of the sign. That is a seemingly familiar "Qi" written in traditional Chinese.

Just when I was about to have a few look, there are already sounds behind the screens, I walked to the walls, and noticed Sariel has already came out.

You: So quick? Is little Lizard okay?

Sariel: I've said that he's doing very well, he's now asleep. We'll leave once Lady Huai's man is back with the medicine.

I let out a breath in relief and nodded. My gaze then returned to the painting on the wall, then subconsciously glance towards Sariel.

Sariel: What are you looking at? Acting so sneaky.

You: I wasn't, I just wanted to ask, did you paint this drawing?

Sariel looked up to the wall, and was stunned for a moment, with some sense of longingness exuding from his gaze.

He didn't deny it, and on the contrary, he looked very serious, I could almost immediately get the answer.

You: So it's true.

Sariel: How did you know?

You: From this stamp, when I first visited your home, I saw it on the signboard.

I then took  a glance at that ink painting, and can't help myself but to sigh.

You: Actually I learnt a bit of calligraphy when I was a child, but the teacher said I have no talent. But I think there might still be a way to rescue my skills...

I scratched my cheek, and I thought Sariel would be taking the opportunity to mock me, but he only let out a light scoff.

Sariel: That's because he doesn't know how to teach.

He walked towards the table and took out a brand new calligraphy paper from it, and raised an arm to begin grinding the ink.

You: Are you going to teach me calligraphy?!

Sariel: While I have not regret it.

[A voice clip will be played here]

*ink grinding sounds*

You're standing so far away, how are you going to learn?

Come here.

What do you want to learn?

You don't know? I indeed shouldn't hold any expectations for you.

... writing in Cursive script doesn't mean to write simply, don't always think of shortcuts.

*sigh*

Forget it, let's start from regular script.

*calligraphy writing sounds*

Horizons flat, verticals upright, first write the words correctly.

What are you looking at me for? Lower your head and look at the words.

T/N: please self imagine Sariel writing your name in Chinese during this awkward long pause...

... I was just simply demonstrating for you, it's just a coincidence that your name is very easy to write.

Take it, try it yourself.

*writing sounds*

*sighs*

Wrong posture.

Palm. Don't grip so tightly, try to relax a little.

*heartthrob sounds*

Here... Use a little more force.

*more heartthrob sounds*

Wrong.

*even more heartthrob sounds*

Here... Be mindful of the penning force.

Understand now?

*writing sounds*

Mm, a lot better.

You're writing...

Don't simply write if you don't know how to write in traditional, there's an extra dot written here.

*heartthrob sounds*

'Qi' is written like this. Try it again.

What a crooked writing. But at least, you've got it right this time.

[Heartthrob (1): Suggest to check on Lizard's condition first]

The strong emotions of anger coming from behind the door made me unable to leave it alone. Also, since Lady Huai has sent someone to get the medicine...

You: How about we go in to have a look at little Lizard first? Aren't you worried about him?

Sariel calmly kept the worriedness from his gaze, and returned to his usual cold demeanor.

Sariel: Why should I be worried? For him to still having the energy to be angry, it means he's still doing well.

You: Saying things that are against your true feelings. You are obviously very worried, so you've came all the way to Rain Island to pick him up.

Sariel: I wasn't--

You: I don't know what happened to little Lizard... But it's okay! He's so tiny, even if it's angry the most it'd do is just to leap up and hit people. By the time it happens I'll help you to catch him!

Lady Huai: She's already put it this way, don't you want to agree with her?

Sariel's slender eyebrows knitted together into a frown, and only closed his eyes and let out a sigh after a long time.

Sariel: Don't run around after you enter the room.

You: Okay okay!

Sariel: You're also not allowed to look around, follow me closely.

You: Understood!

Sariel: Also... Don't say things like helping me to catch him, you won't be able to.

Just when I was about to nod, hearing that, I unwillingly pouted.

You: Don't underestimate me like that, I'm very strong, and I react very quickly too.

Sariel: Is that so? Why don't I see that?

I quickly lifted my arm, trying to show him my nonexistent "biceps".

Sariel took a glance over it, not commenting a thing, only having the corner of his lips slightly curled up.

I knew he's mocking me again, so as I was ready to refute angrily, an unsettling sound of the bell suddenly sounded in the air.

Ring ring--

There wasn't any wind, but the bell hanging on the red cloth moved. Sariel's expressions became stern, he looked closely at that wooden door, as if there's a scary monster hiding behind it.

The strong anger I felt earlier seems to still linger on my fingertips. I can't help but to begin feeling nervous too.

Sariel: Open the door.

Lady Huai nodded, and followed by a creaking sound, the wooden door is opened.

The blinding light immediately corroded my sight. Up next, the strong winds blew the red cloth up, making rustling sounds along with the bell's sound, it feels like the loud cries of a beast.

Just when I was about to raise an arm to block it, someone has held onto my fingers.

Sariel: Close your eyes.

I closed my eyes, allowing him to lead me forward. The sounds kept playing by my ear, yet weird enough, I have calmed down, and each step I take are stable.

Unsure how long it has passed, the sounds of the strong winds and bells are all gone.

Sariel: We're here.

By the time I reopened my eyes, I subconsciously froze on the ground.

This is a room where you can't see its borders, with countless golden veils dangling from the skies, and it seems like there's a flow of river on the ground. In the middle of the layers of veils, there is a giant sophora tree, roots curling and intertwining, creating a cage-like space.

In the middle of the "cage", lies a snow-white, dragon-like giant living being. That pair of golden eyes are full of rage, with its thin and  long whiskers and thick tail swaying in uneasiness.

If it weren't for the roots on its surroundings, it has already been roaring and pouncing towards us since long ago.

You: This is... little Lizard?

I instantly understood what Sariel meant just now. I could definitely never catch this giant being.

Probably because it has noticed our movements, the white dragon's gaze moved towards our side.

On the next second, a pair of sharp claws suddenly strike over!

I subconsciously wanted to pull Sariel backwards, but before I can make a move, I've already heard a muffled sound, it's the white dragon that have been blocked in the cage.

Sariel: Not awake yet, Qi She?

Hearing this name, the white dragon grudgingly raised its head, seeming trying to confirm the identity of the one approaching him.

You: He seems to still be able to recognize you?

Sariel took a step forward, walking closer to the sophora tree cage. Just when I was about to follow him, he spoke.

Sariel: Stay right there.

He didn't even turn back, and he has already guessed my movements. There's no choice, I can only stay there obediently, and watch him closing to the white dragon, bit by bit.

The white dragon named "Qi She" seemed to have lesser rage than earlier, he drooped his head, and quietly blinking his eyes. Sariel placed his fingers on the forehead, not saying a word, only quietly touched him in a consoling manner.

I too, have began to relax. Suddenly, another sound of bell could be heard.

"Ring," this sound is more dull than the bell from outside. Looking towards the source of the sound, it's the giant bell hanging onto the white dragon's neck.

He moved its neck difficultly, raising his gaze and looked towards Sariel, the golden eyes have already unknowingly turned scarlet!

Only hearing a snapping sound, the roots that were originally prisoning Qi She have instantly turned into powders!

The white dragon roared in anger with raging squalls, the sharp claws have once again got closer--

You: Sariel!

Sariel: Don't come!

It was almost within a blink of an eye, numerous bamboos have sprouted from the grounds, forming a natural screen, blocking me off from the dangers.

I held onto the bamboo pole, and I could see the giant dragon leaping into the air from the slits, and the Sariel raising his gaze confronting the dragon.

Qi She violently swayed his tail, and right then, Sariel raised an arm, a slender vine appeared on his fingertips. Then, the vine is just like a long whip, suddenly entangled the white dragon tightly!

How can the tender vine control him? I have been constantly thinking with full of worries, but I've heard a loud thud.

Two powerful thick branches broke through the grounds, and slithered along the vines like giant pythons. The massive weight have suppressed the white dragon onto the floor, he let out a cry, and once again got imprisoned.

You: !

I widened my eyes in surprise, grabbing onto the bamboo poles even more tightly, and became speechless. This is my very first time to be clearly aware what the word "Erda" have truly represented, and how different they are from humans.

Sariel lifted a finger again, with a light turn, the two branches instantly sprouted even more dense branches, forming a new prison.

The white dragon still struggles, but the dull sound of its bell are waning, and his movements have gradually slowed down.

Sariel: Do you plan to use up your energy here and die right away? If that's what you want, I will not stop you.

The imprisoned white dragon finally stopped making a round, but after a while, I heard a tiny cry.

Sariel let out a sigh, then placed his arm on the vine entangling Qi She.

Sariel: Alright, don't move.

A faint scent wafted in the air, and just when I was trying to look for the source of the scent, the bamboo wall before me have disappeared. I looked at where Sariel is, and I could immediately see the tiny flowers casually swaying in little sparkles on the vein.

You: This is...

Lady Huai: Mi Gu* flower. It can break illusions, and also allowing one to have a clear consciousness.

*T/N: Mi Gu flowers are from the legend of Classic of Mountains and Seas. Mi Gu is a kind of tree name, shaped like a paper mulberry, with black texture. Its flowers shine all over, it is said that people will not get lost when wearing them.

Just as what Lady Huai said, the giant pair of beast eyes have moved slightly, the muddled eyeballs seemed to have really became a little clearer.

I quickly walked towards Sariel, and looked at Qi She with some fear still lingering in me.

Qi She: Qi... Medicine...

Sariel: Wait a little more, we've asked someone to get it for you.

Qi She: I'm saying... You...

Hearing that, Sariel's body froze for a moment, and I was stunned too.

Could Sariel also be needing to eat some sort of medicine?

I look sideways, Sariel is reaching out an arm, with a weird-looking flower in his palm.

Sariel: ... Rest up for a while.

Sariel placed the flower before Qi She. Qi She gave it a light sniff, and his eyes have gradually turned heavy, and closed shut after a while.

You: Is he okay now?

Sariel: He's okay for now. So can you let go of me?

Only then I realized I've already been grabbing onto his hem unknowingly, flustering in embarrassment, and quickly let go.

You: I was too nervous just now...

Sariel: Weren't you quite the brave one when you were pestering to come along?

You: Even if I was that great in "thinking nonsense", I wouldn't have expected it to be this kind of situation.

A faint smile appeared from Sariel's eyes. He turned around and began to take a step.

You: Are we going out just like this?

Sariel: I'm afraid that you'd faint from being too nervous. Let's wait outside.

You (pouting): ... I won't.

I mumbled, and turned back to have a look at Qi She. He is quietly laying on the ground, and the heavy atmosphere that he was suppressing has all dispersed.

Returning to the outer hall, there are still only a few customers by the tables, but there's a drama being performed on the stage.

Lady Huai: The medicine is on its way, have a seat and drink some tea, get some rest.

The two waiters poured tea for us. Sariel took a faint glance, and picked up the cup to have a sip.

Lady Huai: How is it?

Sariel: It's alright.

You: He means "pretty tasty", and it tastes better than most teas!

Lady Huai: Don't be nervous, of course I wouldn't be angry at him. This person has high tastes, with a picky mouth, don't say "it's alright", as long as he's willing to drink it, it means the tea is indeed good.

Sariel did not respond, only looked towards the stage. The people on the stage are babbling as they sang, it seems like they are singing "The Legend of the White Snake", and they are singing the part of Xiao Qing reprimanding Xu HanWen* for being inhumane and injustice.

Lady Huai: "There's a saying where tree grows from the roots, and waters grows from its springs*". Young lady, what do you think the "root" and the "springs" of this tragedy are?

I did not expect her to suddenly ask me questions, and I listened to the words sung carefully.

You: According to the lyrics... It's because of Xu Xian's being feeble?

*T/N: This is a line from the Chinese opera/ story for The Legend of the White Snake (白蛇传). Xu HanWen is also called Xu Xian. He's the male protagonist of this tale. The original story was a story of good and evil, with the Buddhist monk Fahai setting out to save Xu Xian's soul from the white snake spirit, who was depicted as an evil demon. However, somehow, it's being romanticized and now depicted as a romance story in many modern movies.

Lady Huai stayed quiet for a moment, and her gaze looked around Sariel, and only began to speak.

Lady Huai: As for me, it's because they aren't the same race, yet still being stubborn*.

*T/N: Lady Huai is hinting Sariel being stubborn about a certain someone. If time allows, I'll write my perspective on how I see Sariel in another article or a Twitter thread. But you can probably get the hint after reading the common ending in the bottom of this post. 

A sudden thud can be heard from the side, Sariel has placed the teacup back to the table.

Sariel: You've listened to this drama for decades, aren't you tired of it yet?

Lady Huai: The drama is indeed a little old, but it feels new each time you listen to it.

Lady Huai smiled as she raised an arm, and the people on the stage immediately stopped their performance.

You: It's a pity that there's no other drama to replace it. Young lady, how about you go up there and perform for him?

I choked on the tea, waved my hand, and shaking my head like a rattle drum.

You: Ahem ahem, I, I don't know how to sing a drama!

Lady Huai: Well you don't have to sing a drama, as long as it's you performing for him... 

Sariel: She doesn't know anything else either.

I knew he was trying to help me out from the situation, but the words he used are really unpleasant to the ear. I suddenly have a feeling of wanting to compete.

You (pouting): Although I can't sing drama, I can still sing! Or I can also tell you a story, uh, or a story.

Sariel: Is that so? Are you prepared to sing a nursery rhyme or to tell a joke?

I angrily looked at Sariel, then suddenly recalled something, then winked at him while smiling.

You: I didn't make it yesterday, but now I can sing "Happy Birthday" to you, do you want to listen?

Sariel: ... I don't want to.

You: Then how about I tell a story? There are so many stories that I know.

Lady Huai: Oh? Then young lady, how about tell us one?

I glanced at Sariel, then glanced at Lady Huai, remembering the "The Legend of the White Snake" performed earlier, and had an idea.

You: Ahem ahem, then I'll tell one.

I cleared my throat, and sat upright at my seat, putting up a posture of a storyteller.

You: I'm going to tell a story about "arcadia". There are many herbivores living there, and they are all living very peacefully. One day, a fox rushed in. He was acting all ruthless in the arcadia, snatching the rabbit's carrots, and pushed the sheep into the waters...

Sariel's expressions turned a little unpleasant, he seemed like he wanted to say something to stop me, but Lady Huai stopped him from the side.

You: The herbivores are planning on how to chase the fox away. By the time they have arrived the fox's house wanting to ambush him, but they accidentally found his diary. 

You: So, actually, the reason why he snatched the carrot was because it's already rotten, and pushing the sheep away was to let it avoid the traps. Only then they realized, the fox is actually not a bad person, and not all carnivores are scary. They mustered up their courage and accepted the fox as their own. Although they are not of the same race, but they still lived happily ever after in the arcadia together.

I finished my story, and picked up the teacup to take a sip, quietly looking towards Sariel to check on his expressions.

His expressions have relaxed by a lot, noticing my gaze, he turned his gaze and looked over here. The misting steam from the teacup, this layer of thin mist have separated us, making me to feel like I'm very distant from him, yet also very close.

Sariel looked at me quietly, and I am unable to read his emotions through that pair of golden eyes.

Unlike his usual demeanor, he did not show a sign of disdain nor saying my story was childish, and not even commenting a thing on this overly ideal ending.

He probably knew what I wanted to tell him, right?

You: Sariel, what do you think about my story--

Just when I was about to speak, a familiar white being descended onto the table we're at with a whoosh. That is a small white dragon, with his slender whiskers fluttering in the air, lightly waving his tail, with light chimes sounding from the bell on his chest.

Qi She: The fox that says what's different from his inner voice, isn't that Lao Qi himself? This story is so good, it's exactly the portrayal of his fox life! 

Only hearing a slap, Sariel raised an arm to lightly smack on Qi She's head.

Qi She: Ouch, Lao Qi what are you doing? I just woke up!

Sariel: So noisy after just waking up? Looks like you had a good sleep.

Looking at Sariel about to raise his arm again, I snapped back to reality, and quickly wanting to stop him.

You: Wait up, little Lizard has just been through so much to recover...

Qi She: That's right that's right! It's still girlie that is more considerate!

The little white dragon glanced at me, and his eyes smiled into lines.

With that look of his, I really shouldn't call him 'little Lizard', but I've gotten so used to it, and I can't change it back in a short time.

Sariel: He's taken his medicine, so he's fine now.

Qi She: How could I be fine? I've already degenerated to such an extent!

I've heard the word 'degenerate' once again, and I quickly took the opportunity to get things clear.

You: Actually I've been wanting to ask, the "degenerate" you guys are mentioning is...

Qi She: If there are no medicine to suppress it, I will degenerate to the form you saw just now, I'll tell you this, that was really uncomfortable. So I have to come back each month to get medicine, but I didn't expect to get delayed on my way this time, so in the end...

You: It's a relief that you can turn back now, but speaking of that, weren't you originally looking like a little lizard?

Qi She: Lizard is just my disguise over that side. How's that, isn't it cuter than a fox--

Sariel glared at him, and Qi She quickly shut his mouth up.

Qi She: Ouch, why is my throat suddenly hurting a little, I can't say anymore. I guess it's because I got thirsty from earlier. Lao Qi, hurry up and let me have a sip!

As he speaks, he skillfully climbed onto Sariel's shoulders. Although with an expression full of disdain, but Sariel still tilted the teacup a little towards Qi She's direction.

Right then, a roaring sound of thunder could be heard from outside of the teahouse. I was startled, and quickly looked out from the window.

It's still a sunny day out there, and everything from the outside looked calm. The sound probably came from somewhere afar, but the scary power is enough to reach somewhere afar.

Unsure if it's a false illusion, but the bricks under my feet have began to tremble too.

You: This--

I turned over to look at Sariel, he is also looking outside with a calm expression. But the calmness is not dispersing easily like the morning dews, but on the contrary, there is a mighty force laying underneath. Everything that reaches his gaze became stable, and the grounds under my feet seemed to became firm again.

Qi She: Girlie, you don't have to be afraid. Even the grounds will move, and the mountains will shake, they will never dare to lay a finger on Sariel.

Qi She is still all smiley, as if he didn't hear the roars from the outside, and continued to lower his head to steal tea from Sariel.

You: ... What happened just now?

Lady Huai: It's not only Qi She that is degenerating on this island.

Lady Huai let out a sigh, and asked somebody to close the windows.

Lady Huai: Sariel, don't you agree?

Sariel: I am not clear about the happenings on this island.

The windows blocked the sunlight, but Sariel's posture has never changed, and still looking towards that direction. In his eyes it seems to be full of the window's reflections, yet it feels like it's completely empty.

Even Qi She has finished drinking tea, he's still not raiding his head, only with the pair of tiny dragon horns showing on the surface.

Qi She: Lao Qi, I'm so sleepy I could die. Say, you've already come all the way to fetch me, you wouldn't also mind me laying on your shoulders a little more, and hitch my way back, right?

Sariel: Hmph. I mind it very much.

Qi She didn't care about Sariel's words, looking for a spot and lay down right on his shoulder, and already closed his eyes. 

The sounds from the outside has gradually dispersed, I suppose there's another degenerating Erda that have calmed down by now, I let out a sigh in relief.

Sariel: We're done drinking, and the story's also over. Let's go.

Lady Huai: Then I'll not send you off. Shall there be a chance, see you again.

Just when we walked out of the teahouse, Qi She has already fallen asleep. I looked at its tiny figure, and I kept feeling that it was all a dream back there.

I hesitated as I wanted to look for a topic to talk about.

You: Oh right, Sariel, you have yet to comment on my story just now.

Sariel: It's all a mess, what's there to comment about?

You: Where did the mess even come from?

Sariel: Fox not eating meat, and instead helped a rabbit, and even ending up living together. Your arcadia is even more exaggerated than the one in the legends.

You: This is an adaptation based on real life, only adding some elements of art...

Sariel threw a glance at me, and I quickly smiled to change the topic.

You: Then, comparing my story to "The Legend of the White Snake", which one is better?

Sariel: Neither are good stories.

You: Why is that?

Sariel: One thinks of people too weakly, another thinks of people too kindly.

I startled a little, and subconsciously halted my footsteps. Sariel have also stopped, then turned around to look at me, quietly waiting.

I was about to say something more, but swallowed my words back when the words have arrived my mouth.

The breeze brushes past Sariel's hair, and Qi She on his shoulder lightly trembled a little.

Looking at that tiny white dragon, I suddenly feel at a trance. The "medicine" that Qi She mentioned back in that inner room, and Lady Huai saying that it isn't Qi She that is degenerating... the scenes are replaying in  my head one by one.

You: Little Lizard just said, if there aren't medication to aid the suppression, he will degenerate to how he was like in the past... Then how about you? Will you also degenerate too?

Sariel: I'm not as weak as he is.

He answered very quickly, with almost no hesitation, as if he has prepared for the answer since long ago.

I quietly answered him in acknowledgment, yet an unsettling feeling has rippled in my heart.

You: Sariel, how do you look like in the past?

Could it be a soft and adorable little fox, or a mighty and majestic giant fox? Will he be taking casual strolls in the woods freely? Or will it be looking up to the moon in loneliness? 

I allowed my imaginary to go off without boundaries, and suddenly think it seems like it doesn't really matter no matter how he was.

You: No matter how you looked like... I think the you right now is still the best.

Sariel: How I look like right now, it'll be how I am like in the future. It won't change.

Only with a single sentence, the unsettling feelings in my heart have immediately dispersed, and suddenly, I can only hear my accelerating heartbeat.

I nodded vigorously towards Sariel. 

You: Then I too, will not change. No matter how you're like, my "arcadia" will always be open for you.

Sariel startled a little, and drooped his gaze.

Sariel: What "arcadia", it's more like a shabby garden.

You: Maybe it's quite shabby, so that's why I needed you to help me to take care of it.

Sariel: You wish.

Seeing him turning around and wanting to leave, I quickly laughed, and quickly stride towards his back.

[Heartthrob (2): Suggest to pick up medicine from the Kui Mansion]

Although I am really worried about little Lizard, but I know very well that even if I've entered to check on his  condition, it'll only increase my worriedness even further.

The most important thing to do right now, is to retrieve the medicine from Kui Mansion, only with this he could be treated.

You: Sariel, how about we get the medicine first?

Lady Huai: Indeed, since it's still unknown if my men are capable of retrieving it. It's better for you to visit in person.

Sariel: I know.

Sariel answered her in acknowledgment, his gaze then fell upon me, faintly looking a little worried.

You: What's wrong?

Lady Huai: He's worrying about you. Kui Mansion isn't like my little teahouse here, the one who lives there is extremely hostile towards outsiders. Young lady, how about you stay here while waiting for his return? I'll take good care of you.

You: But...

Hearing what Lady Huai has said, it looks like the owner of the Kui Mansion isn't friendly at all. I don't wish to trouble Sariel, but I also don't wish for him to face difficulties on his own.

You: I wanted to go with you. Don't worry, I will not hold you back, if you're letting me to head west, I'll never head east! In the worst case scenario, I'll wait for you outside the mansion.

Sariel: You've said that yourself.

You: Mhm! 

I nodded in confidence as I made a promise, I was even so close from raising an arm to take an oath. Sariel looked towards Lady Huai.

Sariel: Please give me the two items.

Lady Huai let out a sound in response, turned around and walked into another room.

Sariel: You take a seat first.

You: Okay... Eh?

Sariel simply found a place to sit down, seeing my puzzled look, he pointed towards the stool by his side.

I didn't expect Lady Huai to have returned so quickly. Before I can even start walking towards the stool, she has returned with a brocade box.

Sariel took the brocade box over, and I saw a of jade bracelet with a jade ring. The emerald-colored jade is polished into small, smooth and round beads, with no other decorative beads that separate the jade beads, and the lights pouring on top as if they are dripping over each bead.

I widened my eyes in exclamation, and just when I was prepared to admire at the ring beside it, Sariel have already picked it up and put it onto his index finger. The greens from the jade have embellished on Sariel's hand, making his skin to look even paler just like a piece of clear white jade, setting off well with the colors of the emerald-green jade.

Sariel: Come here.

My gaze is locked onto that bit of emerald color, and walked a little closer. Suddenly, Sariel held onto my wrist. He pulled me to his front, and by the time I've finally responded to the situation, the jade bracelet is already on my wrist.

The warmth cane from our skin in contact, and unsure if it was me seeing it wrongly, at the instant when the bracelet and ring touched each other, there's a tiny spark of emerald light coming from their collision.

You: This is...

Lady Huai: It's something that could cover "scents". The Erdas have very sharp sense of smell, especially towards those who aren't one of our tribe. However, just with these two items, it probably wouldn't help you to hide it from Mr. Kui.

Sariel did not continue the conversation, only throwing a glance to Lady Huai. The latter smiled, and walked to the front lobby from the backstage.

I tried my best to digest Lady Huai's words earlier, but someone held onto my wrist for once again.

Sariel: Come a little more closer.

But I'm already standing right in front of him, but he still wanted me to "go over".

You: How can I get even closer?

I let out a quiet diss, but I still took one tiny step forward, lowering my head as I looked at his soft hair.

You: What are you--

Before I could finish, Sariel's fingertips have moved up along my arm, and with a light tug, there are not much distance left between him and I. The sudden movements made me stumble, and subconsciously used an arm to support myself on his shoulder.

You: Sa- Sariel, what are you doing?!

The force on my arm strengthens a little further, and Sariel pulled me downwards, raising his head and closes himself to the back of my ear.

Sariel: Don't move around. I'm just helping you to cover your scent.

The breath over my neck is scorching, almost making me to lose my ability to think. I tried to move my lips, but no words could come out from them. And just at the moment when I'm still in a trance, the back of my neck slightly warmed up.

There's something soft yet damp lightly covering over that spot.

His breath was very light, like the gentle spring breezes along with a few strands of catkins, brushing over my neck, bring a little itchiness. It's also like the thin mists of the mountain forests during autumn, sticking over the neck with a little dampness.

Startled, I immediately returned to my senses, wanting to take a step backwards, but I've already lost strength over my my legs, so I could only grab harder onto Sariel's shoulder.

He raised an arm to support me, then took a pause again, and proactively pulled off a distance between us.

Sariel: It's done.

I nervously nodded, only feeling my heart has been beating scarily fast, and my cheeks are boiling hot.

In order to cover up my nervousness, I quickly sat down in panic, and picked up the teacup and downed the tea.

Sariel: ... How thirsty are you?

You: Ahem ahem, well- well I'm thirsty! I didn't even drink water in the morning...

I dare not to look at Sariel directly, and could only keep trying to let out a few coughs, pretending to look like I'm having a dry throat, and continued drinking tea.

He no longer say anything else, and lowered his head to drink his cup of tea too.

Covering my face with the teacup, I snuck a glance from the corner of my eye, only to see a faint smile still lingering over the corner of Sariel's mouth.

After resting for a moment in the teahouse, I've finally calmed down, bid farewell with Lady Huai with Sariel, and walked towards the other end of Rain Island.

The gentle breeze quietly brushes past us, with the surrounding dense housing are starting to look more sparse as we walked. I don't even know how long we've continued walking, but finally, we've arrived a house made of wooden structures.

This place, in comparison to the teahouse, is a little less rustic, and it even uses a large surface of stained glass.

A boy wearing a tangzhuang*, looking like he's only around 10 years old have walked up to us, and greeted us with a bow.

*T/N: A tangzhuang (唐裝) is a kind of Manchu jacket with a straight collar.

Doorman: Mr. Qi, you're finally here. Qi She's medicine is ready. But Mr. Kui is still in the medicine workshop, please have a seat in the mansion.

Qi She? Is this little Lizard's name? Looks like the men Lady Huai sent did not manage to retrieve the medicine.

Looks like this Mr. Kui is a difficult person to handle indeed. I let out an internal exclaim, and was ready to enter the mansion with Sariel, but am arm has blocked me.

Doorman: May I know who this person is?

You: I...

I quickly tried to think of what to say, and just when I was about to speak, Sariel held onto my hand. He moved his fingers, fingertips lightly squeezed between my fingers, then locking onto my palm tightly.

The jade ring is cooling, but the tightly interlocked fingers have continuously spreading their warmth.

The doorman quickly lifted his sleeves and covered his tiny face, with ears popping out from the top of his head, gaze kept lingering between the two of us.

Doorman: Aiya. 

Sariel: What's the problem?

Doorman: No, it's just the scent from this lady... is a little unfamiliar.

I could feel my chest tightening. Lady Huai was right. Luckily Sariel came prepared...

I immediately recalled the light kiss that fell onto the back of my neck, and suddenly I felt my breath have paused, with the dispersed heat now returning to my cheeks for once again.

The doorman took a few more glances at me. After a moment, he finally took a step backwards to make way for me.

Just like that, Sariel held my hand as we walked all the way to the guest hall, only to let go after the door of the room is closed.

My palm has now contacted air, and the lingering warmth have gradually dispersed. I subconsciously clenched my fist, startled slightly, then quickly unclench my fist.

Sariel has already sat down, and I quickly ran to his side, sitting upright.

Sariel: You're too nervous.

You: I- It wasn't that bad!

Sariel: Don't worry, your identity will not be exposed.

You: But what if...

Before I could finish my sentence, a whoosh could be heard in the air. Before I can even respond to anything, Sariel have immediately pulled me towards him. A knife that is reflecting lights is suddenly stabbing right where I was sitting!

The familiar golden pupils are now full of alertness and anger. Sariel hold onto me with an arm, with half of his body blocking before me, raising his gaze as he looks towards the door.

Unknowingly, the door has already been quietly opened, and two figures, one large and the other small, have walked into the room.

I took a proper look, and noticed that the child is exactly the doorman I saw earlier, and another elderly that is holding onto a walking stick is someone that I have never met.

Sariel: Mr. Kui, is this your way of treating your guests?

So he is that "Mr. Kui".

Mr. Kui: This girl is too unfamiliar. As for the scent... Is quite like yours. What, you're a little fox too?

Just when I was thinking about how to answer him, Mr. Kui's sleeves have moved, and a flash of blade lights have flashed over!

Sariel lifted an arm, and with a clacking sound, a vine that came from nowhere have entangled the tip of the sword.

But that sword seems like it didn't have any form, turning into a ray of light in the air, and attacking straight towards me--

I subconsciously raised my arms wanting to block it off, but the pain that I've anticipated did not arrive.

Sariel: That's enough.

Until Sariel's voice could be heard again, only then I've slowly opened my eyes. The dangers have disappeared, with only a little bird shining in golden lights before my eyes. It curiously widened its eyes, and flew around me, and returned to Mr. Kui's sleeves.

Sariel: Do you understand now?

Mr. Kui: For someone with such a weird scent... I didn't expect her to possess talents too. Forget it, have a seat.

The doorman supported Mr. Kui as he took his seat, and I too, quickly followed Sariel as we sit down. Very quickly, someone have served some tidbits with tea, and the nervous atmosphere have finally soothed out a little.

Mr. Kui: Don't blame me for being overly sensitive, I've only heard that there are "people" entering this place in the past two days. You know, since "that incident" happened 17 years ago, humans are banned from entering Rain Island.

As he speaks, he intentionally or unintentionally glanced at me once again, and the tip of his nose have moved a little, it seems like he's still trying to confirm my "scent".

I can't help myself but to hold my breath.

Humans are banned from entering Rain Island? Then why is Sariel still willing to bear the risk to bring me in?

I turned over, but Sariel still looked undisturbed, fingertips lightly touching the ends of the teacup.

Sariel: This has nothing to do with me, I'm only here to request for medicine.

Sariel lowered his head, took a pause, and his voice is no longer cold-sounding.

Sariel: Qi She's condition is not quite good.

Mr. Kui held onto his walking stick with both hands, and after a while, he let out a quiet sigh.

Mr. Kui: I know. As for the medicine, I do plan to give it to you, but you have to agree to my condition.

Sariel: What condition?

Mr. Kui: Stay in Rain Island.

You: ?!

Before I could even think, I've already stood up, because my movements were too big, even the tea in my teacup have almost spilled out.

Mr. Kui: Why? Young lady, do have an opinion against my condition?

Sariel: It's me who have an opinion against it. I've already mentioned it very clearly. I will not participate, nor stop anything related to Rain Island. You may do whatever as you wish, but it's impossible to make me stay.

Sariel's voice isn't loud, but he sounded determined.

Mr. Kui: I really don't understand, what's worthy for you to side with those weak and cunning humans? In thousands and hundreds of years, we've been stepping back and giving into them, and it's not easy for us to meet the current opportunity, are you sure you just wanted to give it away?

Sariel: I'm not siding humans. Also--

His face brushed over me without leaving a trace.

Sariel: Weak and cunning, it doesn't seem like that too.

Mr. Kui: For these words to come out from your mouth, if you aren't siding them, then what?

I do not understand the "opportunity" Mr. Kui has mentioned, and I don't even understand what "siding" means. I can only feel Mr. Kui having strong hostility towards humans.

Since the both of them have stopped talking, the atmosphere that took quite a while to soothe out has returned to a deadlock. I quietly took a deep breath, mustered up my courage and looked towards Mr. Kui.

You: About that... Can I say something?

Sariel: ......

Mr. Kui: What do you want to say?

You: Mr. Kui, have you been to Greensand Town?

Mr. Kui: Of course I've been there. 

You: Since you've been there, then you definitely have seen the scene of how humans and Erdas have lived together in harmony. Why do you still have such great hostility towards humans?

Mr. Kui: You're young, so of course you wouldn't know how the humans have treated us back then... Hmph, even the Greensand Town is just an act of showing peace, it'll be destructed sooner or later.

You: I don't know what has happened in the past. But I think, since this "peace" could be maintained, then it means the two tribes' gaps aren't that deep. Also, not all humans are bad, every tribe has good and bad people.

I secretly glanced to Sariel, he looked calm, and I have no idea what he is thinking. I apologized quietly in my heart, and continued talking.

You: If humans are all so bad, then with that temper of Sariel's, how can he live in the human society for so long?

Mr. Kui: So after talking so much, this is the actual main point. Looks like the two of you have been staying together among humans, so you're unwilling to let him stay here. Why would you need to look for so much of pretentious excuses?

You (ustered): I- I indeed do not wish for him to stay. But what I've said earlier aren't excuses either. Also, you knew clearly that Qi She is now in a dangerous condition, and yet you are still using the medicine to threaten Sariel, isn't this more cunning...?

Mr. Kui stunned, and I have realized that I've said the wrong thing, and quickly shut myself up, and waved my hand.

But I didn't expect him to suddenly let out a laugh at the very next second.

Mr. Kui: Hahaha, Sariel, she is definitely having more of a glib tongue than you do. 

Mr. Kui's laugh is a little exaggerating, so I was a little weirded out, and subconsciously turned over to look at Sariel.

Noticing my gaze, he moved his lips, I can vaguely recognize him trying to say... "clumsy bird"?

I was even actually trying my best to help him, why is this person like this...?!

I looked over angrily, and just when I was about to refute, but I noticed Sariel drooped his eyes, and a faint smile has tinted over the corner of his lips.

In that instant, my anger have all dispersed, what's left is my vigorously beating heart.

Mr. Kui seemed like he has laughed enough, and waved his walking stick towards the doorman.

Mr. Kui: Forget it, I am not interested to force a tough situation onto people. Give him the medicine.

The doorman grabbed into his sleeves for a while, and took out a box to hand it towards Sariel politely.

Mr. Kui: The medicine is yours, but I still have another question.

He raised his arm and pointed towards the floor, and his gaze turned stern.

Mr. Kui: If there's one day where humans and the Erdas have reached that point, what do you plan to do?

Sariel lowered his head, and placed the box properly, his gaze looks cold.

Sariel: What I do today will be what I do when that time comes.

Mr. Kui: Can you really be so cruel to not care about everything? I've only recently found my answer. Even if it weren't for myself, I'll still have to do things for the sake of these little fellas.

He let go of his walking stick, raising his right arm and touched the doorman's head.

Mr. Kui: For the girl beside you, aren't you going to make your choice with her in mind?

Sariel: Even if I do think for her, what does it have to do with humans and Erdas?

Mr. Kui: Who among us aren't in this spiral of happenings? It's completely impossible to leave yourself out from this.

Sariel: If your heart is in it, it'd be natural for you to not leave yourself out of it. As for her? She is never in there.

Although I can't completely understand their conversation, but I knew Sariel has rejected Mr. Kui. Also, it seems like he has really considered a lot for me...

Mr. Kui grabbed onto his walking stick again, as if he has expected Sariel's answer, not looking surprised at all.

Mr. Kui: When are you leaving?

Sariel: Tomorrow.

Mr. Kui: Then quickly return, don't let Qi She wait for long.

Sariel let out a sound in acknowledgment, nodded to show his gratitude towards Mr. Kui, and I followed suit to nod towards him, stood up and followed Sariel's footsteps.

Just when we walked out from the courtyard, Sariel have already turned his head towards me.

Sariel: Weren't you so nervous that you couldn't even say anything earlier? How did you become so chirpy after a while?

You (pouting): What chirpy, wasn't I only doing that because I was worried that you would get convinced... I was helping you! Speaking of this, there's something I wanted to ask you.

Sariel: What?

You: Well... You knew humans are banned from entering Rain Island, why did you allow me to tag along?

Sariel: I have no need to follow the rules set by them.

No matter how you look at it, his words sounded a little arrogant, but his tone sounded so ordinary, as if he's just describing a simple truth.

You: Luckily Mr. Kui didn't notice my identity...

Sariel: So what if you're found out? Since I've brought you here, I'll definitely bring you back like how I've brought you in.

You: Yeah!

I nodded, and I can't hold back from smiling. The worriedness and doubts that have entangled around my heart earlier seemed to have dispersed.

Sariel: Also... 

You: What?

Sariel: A certain someone has no other abilities, but always having her "once in a lifetime requests" on every single day. If I don't allow you to tag along, you will definitely be persevering through it and even staying by my house's entrance throughout the entire night, then you'll even bring this up in the future, and mention it for a hundred times.

I recalled the day I looked for Sariel at his house, because I was worried that I'll miss his birthday, I was so desperate that I even wanted to grab onto his trousers and make him to bring me to Lightcloud swamps.

Just thinking of this, I flustered in embarrassment.

You: You exaggerated too much!

Sariel: You know it well on your own if I was exaggerating or not.

I angrily looked over, but only to see an unusually soft expressions on his face. There's just nowhere for me to express my anger anymore, so I lowered my head, and let out a "hmph" with a muffled voice.

Sariel: What are you simply humphing for? Let's go.

The gentle breeze brushes over, and his voice spreads in the air, mixing with the rustling sounds of the leaves, making my ear a little itchy.

I purposely let out a loud "hmph", smiling as I followed Sariel's footsteps.

[Common Ending]

When it's into the night, the skies have became hazy and begun raining.

It wasn't long after Sariel have returned to the courtyard, and he returned to the teahouse again, it seems like Lady Huai has made him to visit there later.

I leaned towards the window frame, looking at the curtain of rain under the eaves as I fall into deep thoughts.

You: He didn't bring an umbrella, or did he?

After giving it a thought, I still brought an umbrella and a lantern to head out.

There are no electricity in Rain Island, and the moon has been covered by the dark clouds. The black shadows of trees are all around, and there's only a weak light coming from the lantern.

It's slippery under the rain, so it's difficult to walk, but I still tried my best to increase my pace, and wanting to arrive the teahouse as soon as possible.

The familiar golden cornice have appeared before my eyes very quickly, the teahouse is surrounded by the light halos from the lanterns, looking very warm.

I kept my umbrella, and just when I was about to knock on the door, a creaking sound could be heard as the door opens.

Sariel stood under the door frame, his light-colored hair looks warm under the lantern lights. He looked at me, not looking surprised at all, and only frowned lightly.

Sariel: Why are you here?

You: It's raining, and you didn't bring an umbrella with you, so I'm here to fetch you.

Sariel: ... Who needed you to fetch? If you're lost, I'd still need to look for you.

You (pouting): How could I be lost when the teahouse is so close? Also if I'm not here, what happens if you got drenched in the rain and catch a cold?

I quietly refuted him, only to see Sariel raising an arm to close the door, so I curiously take a peek into the teahouse through the slit.

You: Are you done talking to Lady Huai? You can go back already?

Sariel: Mm. Give me the umbrella.

He took over the paper umbrella from my hand. I raised the lantern, and walked under the rainy night with him.

The night breeze brushes past us, and the lantern lights flickered along, and hence the two shadows on the ground have also moved along. I looked at the light halo on the ground, listening to the dripping sounds from the raindrops and the rustling leaves, and I can't help myself but to exclaim.

You: It feels so unbelievable.

Sariel: What?

You: I have never thought that I'd be carrying a lantern and a paper umbrella to walk in the mountains. These traces of algae, the rustic buildings, or the entire Lightcloud swamp... Everything that happened within these two days made me think that it's all unbelievable.

Sariel: Are you trying to prove that you're really inexperienced in life now*?

*T/N: The idiom Sariel used here is '少见多怪', which means someone who is fascinated over many things purely because they have never seen them before.

Taking the opportunity of the dimmed light, I turned over, and angrily glared at Sariel. The light and shadows moved on him, just like the ripples in a fountain, looking very much unreal.

By the time I've returned to my senses, I've already been tugging onto Sariel's sleeve.

Sariel: Hm?

You: Nothing... I, what was I saying again?

Sariel: You said you're inexperienced in life.

You: I didn't! I remember it now, I was talking about Lightcloud Swamp. Honestly speaking... When I first knew we're coming to Lightcloud Swamps, I was actually a little afraid. Since this is a place in the legends, it's a journey that I can't predict a thing after all.

The slate under my foot is wet. I carefully walk a step forward, and saw Sariel taking this step with me at the same time, and I can't hold back from smiling.

You: But after arriving Greensand Town, I don't feel afraid anymore. Everyone are really friendly, also... you're here.

The leaves rustles, and the winds seemed to have gotten stronger, and suddenly, everything before me went black.

With a blow, the candle flame in the lantern got extinguished.

You: !

The endless darkness shrouded the world, and I subconsciously hold onto Sariel's hand tightly.

Sariel: Didn't you say you aren't afraid anymore?

His voice absolutely did not attempt to cover his smile, yet his tone sounded very gentle.

You: I'm afraid of the dark, don't mix them together...

The night breeze brushes past, and the dark clouds are slightly dispersed, with a few rays of moonlight now pouring out. The fear of my vision suddenly blackened have dispersed a little because of this, and just when I was thinking if I should let go of my hand, I suddenly feel a warmth over the back of my hand.

Sariel: Since you're afraid, then hold on tighter. 

Sariel's hands are always so warm, it's a great contrast from his faint gaze and the surrounding gloomy weather. Just like a dry harbor that is hot and humid, making one wanting to lean closer to it.

I tightened my grip, and firmly locked my fingers with his, flustering a little.

Suddenly, I noticed a rope tied on his waist, there's a square package wrapped with oil paper, hanging under it.

I let out a light cough, and used the opportunity to change the topic.

You: What's this?

Sariel: It's the jujube tarts from Lady Huai for you.

It's the tidbits I ate in the teahouse during the day, heard that it's a local specialty in Rain Island. She probably saw me taking a liking to it, so she purposely gifted it to me.

You: So did you go to the teahouse to pick up the jujube tarts? I thought there's some other things that you discussed.

Sariel: ... There were indeed some matters.

Sariel answered me in a deep tone, and recalled what happened in the teahouse.

Lady Huai: You're purposely bringing her to the teahouse to let me see her, right?

Sariel: I've troubled you.

Lady Huai: It isn't trouble to just seeing her, but I know what you're thinking. The skies are high, and the journey ahead is long, even if I wanted to, I can't guarantee that I could protect her well.

Sariel: ... I know, it's just to prepare for the worst.*

*T/N, added on 4 Sept: Based on feedback I figured I should add some notes here. Sariel's tribe has been degenerating rapidly, and when they degenerate, they tend to return to their old forms. It's apparently the same for Evan's tribe (I also used a made-up term 'Strains' for his kind) and hence his family Master is having some sort of evil scheme, which I believe Evan is trying to do something about it in a morally gray manner. While MC's talent is awakening, it appears that all of those who owns a talent (yes, Osborn included) are degenerating in a form or another, so they are trying various things for their survival, and a future war may be likely. Though, Sariel, who's likely to be the strongest among the Erdas, chose not to side humans nor the Erdas, likely because his name was once a taboo among the Erdas due to him planning to resurrect a certain someone (his dearest comrade in a great war, speculating to be MC in her past life) when she died in the war. This poor man lived long enough and has literally no will to keep living till date, but can't stop worrying for MC.

Lady Huai: Don't worry so much, that young lady is not a weak person.

Sariel nodded. Of course he'd know, the word "weak" is never related to her. But he still couldn't help himself but to think of what would happen in the distant future, and think about everything that she might face, and wanted to give her some form of aid.

The sounds of the raindrops could be heard, it seems like it's rained. A sophora leaf fluttered into the teahouse, and fell onto Lady Huai's palm.

That leaf turned lively like a tiny paper man, leaning to Lady Huai's ear, and she smiled after hearing what's said.

Lady Huai: Someone's here to fetch you.

Sariel looked out through the window, a blurry figure holding an umbrella is closing up from afar.

The sounds of the winds got gradually louder, and the dark clouds have now dispersed completely, in the midst of the scattering raindrops, the moonlight shines brightly.

You: Sariel, the moon is out. I remembered something when I see the moon now. You're an Erda, and you've lived so long, so you've been celebrating your birthday on lunar calendar, right?

The girl raised her head, with the moonlight pouring into her eyes, just like a distant star.

He recalled the time she was in the courtyard, she was just like this, with bright eyes, looking at the moon, wishing him a happy birthday.

You: Then wouldn't it be different every single year? The 1st of September this year is...

The girl counted on her fingers, and seriously began calculating. After counting for a moment, she realized that she could never calculate it properly, and looked at him with a troubled expression.

You: Which birthday of yours did we celebrate yesterday?

His heart suddenly felt swollen.

Sariel: Yesterday...

You: Hm?

He looked at his figure reflected in the girl's eyes, and took a pause.

Sariel: Actually, it wasn't my birthday yesterday.

You: It wasn't? Is it not the lunar calendar, or--

Sariel: Neither are. It was originally 15th of the eight lunar month.

The girl stunned.

She muttered the day again, looking at a loss, but very quickly smiled again.

You: It's a day of reunion, a good occasion worth celebrating*. Yeah, it's better than 1st of September!

*T/N: The 15th day of 8th month in the lunar calendar is the mid-autumn/ mooncake festival. It's a festival where families and friends gather and harvesting crops for the festival. 

There was a certain someone that have said this in the past too, but in fact, it wasn't.

He still remembered that very day very long ago, the reunion that was forced to a halt, the flames that burned endlessly, and... a bloodstained silk dress.

The round moon no longer represents reunion, but became the curse that carved deep into his heart.

The raindrop that went under the umbrella have brought his consciousness back, he looked at the girl's excited expressions, and he could roughly guess what's in her mind.

How weird, there are some things that she had to ask for the deepest details. Yet, there are things that she can just let it pass so briefly.

After settling his feelings, he spoke again.

Sariel: Are you now thinking about how to annoy me on the 15th of the 8th lunar month?

You: How can you call that 'annoy'? I wanted to celebrate it for you!

Sariel: No need, I have never celebrated on that day since long ago. Also, right now, I think 1st of September is better.

The girl looked a little hesitant, but still nodded.

You: Since that's the case, then I'll leave the groundbreaking surprise to the next 1st of September. But, although I planned not to ask, but, why did you--

Looking at her feeling the itch at her heart like this, he could finally feel a reassuring sense of familiarity. Without her saying it, he already knew what the girl wanted to ask.

Sariel: Back then someone made me to fill in the documents, so I simply wrote 1st of September on it.

You: How can such things be simply done?!

The girl angrily widened her eyes, moonlight pouring on her hair, making her to not look fierce for even a single bit, but very soft and gentle instead.

Sariel recalled the happenings over the last night all over again.

The courtyard that has turned lively after such a long time, although there were only the two of them, but it has already felt very lively.

It's the best birthday that he has celebrated ever since that day.

This made him couldn't help thinking arbitrarily, why not let that night be his fresh start?