Mingxi inhaled slowly, deeply—like he needed patience or divine intervention—and then he glanced at Poppy, eyes softening in a way that felt nothing like familial titles.
“Dà ge,” Poppy murmured, trying the word. “It suits you.”
The way Mingxi froze—quiet, internal, visceral—told her the phrase meant more to him than she understood.
Minghua squealed. This time, Mingxi didn’t even bother correcting her.
The dining hall was serene—lacquered wood glowing under soft morning light, steam curling from bowls of porridge and sliced fruit. The atmosphere felt warm, welcoming… and intimidating all at once.
Minghua all but bounced into the room.
Poppy followed hesitantly.
Mingxi walked at her side, steady as a breath.
Two figures rose at the far end of the table.
Shen Mingzhao, Clan Patriarch, was tall with silver-streaked hair pulled back and sharp eyes that assessed everything in a single look. Power and restraint in perfect balance.
Xu Yunlian, Clan Matriarch, was graceful, serene, warm-eyed. The gentleness of spring hiding steel beneath silk.
Mingxi bowed immediately. “Fùqin. Shimu.”
Poppy scrambled to follow Minghua’s subtle cue and bowed as well.
Xu Yunlian smiled, soft and approving. “Welcome. Please join us. You are a guest of us all.”
Minghua plopped down next to Poppy so fast that Mingzhao exhaled through his nose.
“Minghua,” he said.
She froze and then corrected herself dramatically, sitting neatly… for three seconds… before sliding closer to Poppy again.
Poppy tried to hide her smile.
Mingxi took the seat beside Poppy, subtly positioning himself as her shield.
Xu Yunlian served porridge with gentle precision.
“Eat,” she urged. “Your strength needs replenishing after an awakening.”
Poppy dipped her head. “Thank you. Everyone has been very kind.”
Minghua leaned in and whispered loudly, “They like you.”
“Minghua,” Mingxi warned.
“What? They do!”
Poppy took a bite of porridge—warm, sweet, soothing.
She exhaled softly. “This is wonderful.”
“You haven’t eaten since before the ball?” Mingxi murmured.
“No,” Poppy admitted. “I… forgot.”
Before she could take another bite, Shen Mingzhao spoke. “You awakened the moonlight.” His voice cut through the quiet like a blade sliding from a sheath.
