Dobytranslations

Blog

  • The Villainous Older Sister Who Loves Her Younger Sister Aims for the Guillotine 74

    74: The Lord’s Chambers

    There was a room for me in the lord’s mansion.

    To be precise, it was the ‘lord’s chambers.’

    Only the lord and their relatives were allowed to use it.

    There was only one bed—a large four-poster.

    I had slept with my parents when I was young, but after a certain age, I had slept in the guest room.

    So—it wasn’t strange for me to claim the bed, large enough for three people, and tell Leticia to sleep elsewhere.

    As the villainous sister, I could also have her sleep in the servants’ quarters. While it wouldn’t do for my sister to be looked down upon by the servants, perhaps Ciel’s room, as a high-ranking servant, would be acceptable…? And wouldn’t my sister be more comfortable there? —Yes, that might be a good idea.

    Ciel, placing our luggage in a corner of the room, asked for confirmation.

    “So, Lady Adelheid, is it alright for you to share a bed with Lady Leticia?”

    The inner beasts within me, the jockeys of my mind, mounted their horses and took off.

    “That’s fine,” galloped ahead, a seemingly sensible choice.

    “Have my sister sleep in the servants’ quarters,” was a tempting option for a villainous sister.

    “It’s okay for an older sister to use her younger sister as a body pillow, right?” was completely out of control.

    The spectators in the stadium of my mind cheered wildly for their chosen horses.

    “…Ciel, explain your reasoning.”

    It was a surprisingly close race, so I decided to prolong it.

    I had a faint hope that all the horses would fall during the long race, creating a fourth option.

    “First, Lady Leticia is undoubtedly a relative of the lord.”

    That was undeniable. She was the lord’s sister, even if only a half-sister, and the first in line of succession.

    “If they sleep in separate rooms, there are security concerns. We would need to assign servants to each of you. And since it would require an additional room, there would be a slight increase in expenses.”

    Structurally, the lord’s chambers were the most secure room in the mansion. Having all those who required protection in one place would make it easier for the guards.

    While it wasn’t like paying for an extra room at an inn, since this was our own mansion, it would still require time and money to prepare. I didn’t want to waste money. I understood that.

    While it was a paltry sum for a family of our means, a noble’s status was ultimately determined by their financial power—not their lineage.

    Impoverished nobles were… pathetic. Especially for their subjects.

    We shouldn’t be wasteful.

    The fact that I had given Leticia an attic room and kept her allowance relatively small, as dictated by the setting of [Moonlight Liberium], was based on that principle.

    It made it difficult for me to argue against Ciel’s reasoning.

    “Besides, you shared a room with her during your first overnight trip for the riding lesson.”

    …So there was a precedent.

    Right, of course, I had saved money by not getting a separate room. And we had shared a bed before. Of course.

    My inner noble lady, usually kept under wraps, emerged in full force.

    While I had initially banished her to the sofa with a blanket and pillow, I was also the one who had let her into my bed when she was frightened by the thunder.

    I felt a surge of recklessness, wanting to embrace the third option and declare, “Leticia, you will be my body pillow. Sisterly affection? Don’t be absurd. This is purely objectification! Mwahahaha!”

    But I had to calm down.

    Negotiations continued until the other party was exhausted and gave up.

    I couldn’t give in so easily.

    I was Adelheid von Vanderwaals.

    The current head of the “Coldhearted Vanderwaals.”

    “Um… Elder Sister…”

    Leticia looked at me.

    What was she going to say now?

    No matter how adorable she was, I wouldn’t be swayed.

    I steeled my resolve.

    My sister, without a word, gently tugged on my sleeve and gazed at me intently.

    Of course, I was instantly swayed.

    …So, silence, huh?

    That couldn’t be helped.

    My resolve was to withstand any adorable words from my sister, not any adorable actions.

    But was there any older sister who wouldn’t be swayed by such a cute gesture?

    Could you even call yourself an older sister?

    ――No. Absolutely not.

    “…Fine, whatever… it doesn’t matter.”

    Even so, I tried my best to maintain my villainous sister facade and shook off her hand, which was still clutching my sleeve.

    I immediately regretted it.

    My sister still didn’t say anything.

    But she smiled faintly.

    And I… could only respond with sarcasm.

    The men—the [Capture Targets]—who were openly affectionate towards her, must be seeing an even more adorable side of my sister.

    A dark feeling, like a spreading stain, seeped into my heart, and I was bewildered.

    I was used to malice. Our family thrived on it.

    However, despite being called cold, heartless, cruel, ruthless, and wicked, I had never given such orders out of personal spite.

    Perhaps that was why I was called those things.

    Looking at my sister’s smile again, the dark cloud in my heart dissipated.

    She was truly a precious sister, too good for someone like me.

    …Would it be wrong to hug her and sleep with her…?

  • My Girlfriend is a Cold and Aloof Sickly Beauty 69

    Chapter 69: Discovering the Lock

    Xiao Luohan was engrossed in watching the video when she was startled by Jiang Xue’s voice. She quickly took off her earphones and nodded slightly. “I’ll eat.”

    Jiang Xue fed her sweet osmanthus fermented rice balls made by Sister Cheng. The flavor of the fermented rice and the fragrance of osmanthus blended well together. The small red goji berries added color and sweetness, and even the glutinous rice flour used for the rice balls was carefully chosen, not sticky at all.

    Jiang Xue went out and brought a bowl of steaming rice balls for herself, then asked after Xiao Luohan had eaten for a while, “Did you have a nightmare? Or are you feeling unwell? You can tell me if you don’t want to bother Sister Cheng. I have my phone with me!”

    Not only did she have her phone, but she also checked it from time to time, but Xiao Luohan hadn’t sent any messages all night.

    “Neither,” Xiao Luohan put down her bowl and spoon, shaking her head. “I fell asleep, but then I woke up quickly, and it kept happening.”

    Jiang Xue felt that this symptom sounded familiar. Thinking carefully, she seemed to have experienced the same thing the night Xiao Luohan transformed into a cat to repay her kindness.

    But she had been unable to sleep because she cared too much about Xiao Luo and was constantly worried, preoccupied with her thoughts. Could Xiao Luo also have something on her mind?

    Asking directly probably wouldn’t get her an answer. If Xiao Luo really wanted to talk, she would have already told her.

    Jiang Xue could only try to guide her indirectly. “Usually, it’s because you have something on your mind. For example, I can’t sleep well the night before a major exam or a long trip, and even my dreams are filled with related content, usually negative scenarios.”

    “Like not being able to find the exam room, missing the exam because I had to go to the bathroom, realizing I filled in the answer sheet incorrectly right before handing it in… I always wake up in a panic after dreaming of such unexpected events.”

    Seeing Xiao Luohan still shake her head in confusion, she continued guessing, “If you don’t have anything on your mind, it might be that you’re not used to the bed? It’s normal not to sleep well in a new environment. But it’s usually better if you have someone familiar with you.”

    At this point, she suddenly realized.

    Xiao Luo had always slept with her since crossing over! Even during lunch breaks.

    From Uncle Seuss’s house to her home, to the classroom, and then here, the sleeping environment had changed repeatedly, but only tonight had Xiao Luo had trouble sleeping. She had slept soundly the previous times, all night long.

    If this was the correct answer, for Xiao Luo’s sleep quality, should she apply to be exempt from evening self-study?

    Studying wouldn’t be a problem. Besides her, there were many students in her grade who felt that studying at home was more efficient. They could apply to go home early, and most of the homework was collected by the class representatives the next morning during self-study and handed to the teachers for grading.

    Even for the weekly English quizzes that took up two evening self-study periods, she could just get the test paper from the English teacher beforehand, time herself, and check the answers the next day in class.

    In an instant, Jiang Xue had made up her mind and was even a little excited.

    She hadn’t experienced skipping evening self-study since starting high school!

    “Your problem isn’t difficult to solve. Just observe for a while with someone you’re familiar with,” she said to Xiao Luohan. “If you still can’t sleep well, ask Dr. Qi to prescribe some calming medicine. Just take it one step at a time, don’t worry!”

    Come to think of it, Dr. Qi had said she would take Xiao Luo for a full body check-up before returning home. It seemed to be this week? They could take this opportunity to rule out other possible causes of insomnia.

    Hearing “someone you’re familiar with,” Xiao Luohan vaguely guessed what Jiang Xue was planning to do, but she immediately dismissed the thought.

    Impossible! Jiang Xue had already taken four days off from school for her, which was already an exception. She couldn’t possibly skip evening self-study too, could she?

    But the next day, during the long break, she saw Jiang Xue show her the application for exemption from evening self-study with a bright smile.

    “After all, you slept very soundly after I came back last night!” Jiang Xue explained, facing Xiao Luohan’s surprised look. “I don’t know about others, but in our family, health always comes first. If my company can help you sleep well and not have insomnia, in a way, it’s also saving us trouble.”

    Xiao Luohan understood this. Even if they asked the family doctor for help, they still had to pay for the consultation and medicine, just with a lifelong discount.

    “And, I don’t like evening self-study, especially in winter,” Jiang Xue continued, taking advantage of the empty classroom. “I don’t know if you noticed when you came to find me that day, but there’s always a certain smell in the classroom. It’s not because anyone is unhygienic, but because so many people are crammed into a small space for so long.”

    “Besides that, there’s also the smell of coffee and even menthol balm mixed in, since everyone is trying to stay awake and study! In the past two years, A-Xi and I would even go to the hallway to study during winter. It was quiet and well-ventilated, just a little cold. If we weren’t careful, we would catch a cold the next day!”

    After this explanation, Xiao Luohan was finally convinced.

    So that day, after dinner at Old Cat Noodle Shop, on their way back, they heard Xie Xitong say sourly, “It’s so nice to be able to go home for evening self-study. I’m not jealous at all.”

    “A-Xi’s study efficiency actually decreases when she’s at home.” Afraid that Xiao Luohan would misunderstand the joke, Jiang Xue quickly explained, “You remember that she always comes to my house to study on weekends, right? If she were at home…”

    “Oh, oh, weren’t you also happily petting Xixi when I brought it over?” Xie Xitong interrupted. “It’s all the little kitty’s fault that I can’t focus on my studies!”

    “See, you admitted it yourself.” After seriously explaining to Xiao Luohan, Jiang Xue couldn’t help but cover her mouth, her body shaking with laughter.

    Xiao Luohan understood. They truly didn’t like evening self-study.

    Knowing this, she felt completely at ease. After packing her things in the classroom, she went downstairs with Jiang Xue.

    Although her feet hadn’t been bound, due to her frail health, Xiao Luohan always walked slowly, slightly behind Jiang Xue.

    Looking up, she could see the setting sun casting a faint glow on Jiang Xue’s black hair, her high ponytail swaying gently with each step.

    For some reason, she enjoyed looking at Jiang Xue from this angle.

    But she didn’t want to always follow behind Jiang Xue. After admiring her for a while, she quickened her pace to catch up, keeping her shoulders level with Jiang Xue’s.

    Jiang Xue was still thinking about the check-up this weekend and didn’t notice her small actions. After leaving the school gate and getting into the car, she couldn’t help but take out her phone to confirm the details with Dr. Qi.

    Dr. Qi quickly replied: 【Yes, the appointment with the hospital is for this Saturday at 8:30 AM. After the check-up and lunch, you can go get your hair done.】

    After reading the message, Jiang Xue instinctively looked at Xiao Luohan’s hair.

    She was definitely getting a haircut—this was Xiao Luo’s request. She felt her hair was too long, inconvenient, and troublesome to wash.

    According to Xiao Luo’s idea, after the haircut, her hair would probably be about the same length as Jiang Xue’s. As for the style, they could discuss it with Dr. Qi’s “old friend” later.

    But… it was still a little pity. She quite liked Xiao Luo’s long hair.

    Silently adding “buy Xiao Luo a super long wig” to her future plans, Jiang Xue said, “The check-up is the day after tomorrow. If you’re worried, you can search for the procedure online these two days. I have last year’s check-up list saved. I can show you when we get home.”

    She was carsick, so replying to messages was already her limit. She couldn’t focus on finding the file.

    After arriving at the rented apartment, Xiao Luohan went to wash up and change. After getting her consent, Jiang Xue took both their phones, using one to send the check-up list and the other to receive it.

    She also searched for various check-up vlogs for Xiao Luohan, thoughtfully saving them in the same folder for easy browsing and organization.

    But her movements were too fast, and the themes and wallpapers of the two phones were similar. When she intended to open an app on her own phone, she accidentally opened Xiao Luohan’s notes app.

    The notes app on the new phone was practically empty. Jiang Xue was about to exit when she noticed a gray lock icon next to the pinned note.

    She thought for a long time, then tried her usual passwords a few times, confirming that this wasn’t a note she had accidentally left on the spare phone.

    …This lock could only have been added by Xiao Luo herself.

    Realizing this, Jiang Xue felt a mix of emotions.

    She was happy that Xiao Luo could lock her notes—this was a function she hadn’t taught her, and she hadn’t expected Xiao Luo to figure it out so quickly. But she was also worried that Xiao Luo already had locked notes so early on.

    Xiao Luo’s restless sleep, it must be because she had something on her mind, right?

    Was she worried about the future of the other world and Elder Sister Red Fox?

    Or was it that she was uncomfortable with certain aspects of life in the new world, but for various reasons, couldn’t talk about them, so she wrote them down to vent?

    Certainly, everyone had secrets they didn’t want to share, and Jiang Xue was willing to respect Xiao Luohan’s choice, but she was worried that her worries would accumulate.

    The problems would pile up, visible every time she opened the notes app, but remain unresolved…

    This kind of situation could be devastating. She had learned this the hard way during her “rebellious phase” and never dared to keep things bottled up for too long again.

    Jiang Xue made a series of assumptions, but when Xiao Luohan emerged from the bathroom, her steps light and cheerful, took the phone, got into bed, and curiously started browsing the information about the check-up, she suddenly felt that she might have been overthinking.

    What if Xiao Luo had simply wanted to try the new function, and then forgot to unlock it, or simply couldn’t find a way to unlock it?

    After all, she wouldn’t have entered anything important when trying out a new function. Besides, a gray lock icon wasn’t a big deal. It only bothered people with OCD, nothing more.

    Xiao Luohan had no idea that the lock she had set out of habit had caused Jiang Xue’s mind to wander and overthink.

    She first read the check-up list, then watched the videos one by one, and finally, blushing, asked Jiang Xue, who was sitting on the edge of the bed, “That… there’s a detail about one of the examinations that I don’t quite understand…”

    Too embarrassed to say it aloud, she simply opened the check-up list and pointed it out to Jiang Xue.

    Jiang Xue also fell silent when she saw the examination item.

    It was a routine gynecological check-up. Their whole family had it every year, and they also had it during the school’s annual physical examination. With women’s health issues becoming increasingly important in society, this kind of check-up wasn’t unusual.

    But Xiao Luo was a girl from ancient times, from a feudal society.

  • Second Time Around, the Villainous Daughter Decides to Indulge First 75

    Chapter 75: I Confess, I Have Sinned

    “No need, thank you. We have the scroll, let’s go.”

    Lena watched the numbers on her card decrease, wincing slightly.

    The Hat-Wearing Merchants’ goods were truly expensive; a tenth of her private funds had vanished.

    A bunch of greedy mushroom profiteers!

    Just loving that markup!

    Although she wasn’t really in a position to criticize…

    “Senior Weakling, wait for me!”

    Diana hurried after Lena, afraid of being left behind. “What do we do now?”

    She treated Lena as the leader, even though this whole situation was her fault. But at least someone was taking charge.

    Lena was so much stronger than her, and so nice, she felt a sense of security!

    Diana clenched her fist, poking Lena’s waist with her thumb. It was firm and supple, she could even feel the distinct lines of muscle.

    Abs?

    Diana tilted her head, confused.

    Could girls have abs?

    So sexy…

    Let’s touch again…

    “Let’s go back to the hotel.” Lena pinched Diana’s bottom, the feeling quite pleasant. With a little development, it would be even better. She was already looking forward to it. “Since we’re already here, wouldn’t you like to stay the night? I heard the sunrise view from Smith Lake Hotel is world-renowned. I believe I’m worthy of spending the night with Your Highness, just the two of us…”

    “Eh?” Diana flinched, her hand retracting from Lena’s waist. Her bottom, never before touched, tingled, a wave of heat rushing through her body.

    “Don’t touch… Senior Weakling… M-mmm?~”

    Diana blushed, trying to regain her composure and retort with her usual condescending tone, but her gaze faltered, her words failing her…

    Diana suddenly remembered the times she had, using her status and age, trampled on Lena, making Lena eat her white-stockinged feet, a humiliating act that couldn’t be easily forgiven. She had to do something to make amends, at least offer a proper apology.

    She didn’t want to be left alone here!

    “Why aren’t you moving?” Lena, still wondering, looked down at Diana’s feet.

    The thin white stockings were torn, revealing the delicate skin beneath, dirty and unprotected. How had she endured walking like this for so long?

    Was this why she had asked to be carried?

    “Why didn’t you say so earlier?” Lena frowned, a strange feeling rising within her. She crouched down. “Lift your foot, let me check.”

    “It hurts…”

    Diana was reluctant. Lena’s kindness only intensified her guilt.

    The passerby, the receptionist, and now Lena, all showing her concern, never once treating her as a burden..

    And yet, she had been so rude to Lena…

    She was such a terrible person!

    “It’s just a small scrape, nothing serious.” Lena told Diana to wait, then vanished in a puff of black mist.

    Diana fidgeted nervously, her hands clasped in front of her chest, afraid that Lena wouldn’t return. “Senior Weakling… Lena, you didn’t say when you’d be back… waaaah… Lena…”

    Her ponytail drooped, her shoulders trembling.

    Diana looked hopefully in the direction Lena had disappeared, but there was nothing but the lingering black mist.

    Surrounded by darkness, in an unfamiliar place, she seemed to be lost.

    “Lena! Don’t scare me, you know I’m a scaredy-cat, Lena, come out, I’m scared, waaaah…”

    The night was long and silent.

    Darkness amplified her fear, the clear starry sky like a glittering jewel, but Diana was in no mood to admire it.

    The moon lit her path, and Diana followed her own footprints, believing that as long as she kept going in the same direction, they would reunite soon, and she could rely on Lena again.

    “My feet hurt… I should have retrieved my shoes…”

    But what else could she do? She was too scared to stay put, and her Word Spirit Magic was useless in this deserted place. She could only endure the pain and continue walking. “Lena… Lena, don’t leave me alone… waaaah… I won’t insult you anymore… You know I didn’t mean those things… Lena, come out… ah!”

    Something brushed past her foot.

    Cold and moving!

    Diana froze, her mind blank…

    Walking in the dark, unable to see the path ahead, brought clarity, like someone suddenly maturing after the death of a loved one, the wounds in their heart breaking and healing.

    Diana confessed sincerely, tears streaming down her face. “If you appear before me right now, I… I’ll listen to you…”

    “Really?”

    Lena appeared behind Diana, a smile on her face, her red lips, coated in shimmering lip gloss, standing out in the darkness.

    She scooped Diana up into her arms, whispering in her ear, “You said it yourself, you can’t go back on your word.”

    “Lena, waaaah… Senior Weakling… waaaah…”

    Diana cried without restraint. After all, who would bother with decorum when truly scared? It was better to just cry it out.

    Lena carried the small princess through the darkness, the crunching sound of twigs under her feet making Diana tremble.

    But the warmth of Lena’s body against her cheek calmed her, dispelling her fear.

    This sense of security was something Diana had never experienced before.

    Having grown up alone in a cold and empty mansion, with only cold, indifferent maids and a powerful butler for company, Lena’s embrace filled the void of maternal love in her life, touching the softest part of her heart.

    So warm…

    Lena’s heartbeat was also soothing, a steady rhythm like a drum.

    The best way to subdue a little devil was to make her feel guilty and dependent, then tear down her facade and teach her a lesson, showing her the true power of an adult.

    …

    Lena carried Diana back to the Smith Lake Hotel, presenting the Falmouth Obsidian Card to the awestruck receptionist, then chose a southeast-facing couple’s suite, walking towards the staircase.

    The spiral staircase, thanks to the local environment, was made of high-quality wood.

    Combined with goblin technology and dwarven craftsmanship, the hotel had a unique and modern style, popular among young people. Lena opened the door and locked it, her movements practiced and familiar.

  • Female Lead Was Coaxed Away by the Villain Again [Quick Transmigration] 138

    Chapter 138: Money Is Really Tempting (11)

    Although Jiang Zhiyan and Xie Liaoyi had been together for so many years, it didn’t diminish their affection.

    While discussing work on the sofa, they would often go from a normal social distance to being practically glued to each other.

    Every time someone knocked on the office door, the two, acting like guilty conspirators, would instinctively spring apart and pretend to be working.

    The System really wanted to see them get caught, although it felt that these two, with their thick skin, would be able to handle it calmly.

    Because Xie Liaoyi was doing such a good job, Jin Shuang’s parents readily retired early and even held a retirement party, inviting Mu Chen’s parents, who hadn’t fully retired yet, to show off.

    Jiang Zhiyan added Jin Shuang’s mother on social media. She had been posting photo grids every day for a month, clearly enjoying herself.

    Perhaps because Jiang Zhiyan had made such a significant contribution to Jin Shuang’s parents’ retirement, Jin Shuang’s mother now looked at her much more kindly and even bought gifts for Jiang Zhiyan when buying things for Xie Liaoyi.

    However, Jiang Zhiyan’s parents in this world weren’t happy with her actions. They called every few days, asking when she would return home and relieve them of their duties.

    “Sometimes being too capable is also a fault,” Jiang Zhiyan sighed.

    System: Heh.

    To appease her parents, Jiang Zhiyan facilitated a collaboration between the Jiang and Jin corporations, indirectly helping the Jiang family reach greater heights. The Jiang family finally calmed down, and Jiang Zhiyan’s allowance also increased, her life becoming even more comfortable.

    Jiang Zhiyan lay on the sofa in Xie Liaoyi’s office, looking at Xie Liaoyi sitting behind her desk: “When are you getting off work?”

    “In half an hour,” Xie Liaoyi said, flipping through the documents in her hand.

    “I can help you with that,” Jiang Zhiyan sat up.

    “You can relax, I’m almost done,” Xie Liaoyi waved her hand dismissively.

    Jiang Zhiyan lay back down, then, noticing Xie Liaoyi’s phone vibrating on the coffee table, she picked it up and glanced at it: “Why is he still contacting you? He seems to have a problem.”

    “I’ve already blocked him, but he keeps changing numbers, he seems even more persistent than the ghost in the last world,” Xie Liaoyi said.

    Jiang Zhiyan frowned, flipping through the script: “Okay, this book does say that the male lead’s ‘chase-your-wife crematorium’ arc in the later stages involves constantly contacting the female lead… and showing up at various events to confess his sincerity.”

    Xie Liaoyi frowned.

    “I’m starting to suspect that the only reason he managed to win her back was that they hadn’t actually divorced, and the female lead, feeling embarrassed, compromised,” Jiang Zhiyan said, flipping to the later chapters and shaking her head. “This story should be classified as absurd.”

    “If we leave, will he continue to harass Jin Shuang?” Jiang Zhiyan pursed her lips. “But we can’t be sure if she’ll still be lovestruck… if she gives away the Jin family’s assets as gifts after we leave, there will be two more people dying of anger in this world.”

    “Three, including the System,” the System added.

    “Although it’s her own choice, just thinking about it makes me angry,” Jiang Zhiyan said, looking at Xie Liaoyi.

    Xie Liaoyi looked at the document in her hand: “Hearing you say that, I suddenly don’t want to work anymore. Her ability to manage the Jin Corporation shouldn’t be a problem, I’m just worried she’ll make the same mistake again.”

    “It’s still better to just kill the male lead, eliminate the problem permanently,” Jiang Zhiyan said, taking a sip of water.

    “If the world collapses, Jin Shuang will also be gone, that would indeed permanently eliminate the problem, Your Honor,” Xie Liaoyi said, signing the document. “Let’s just leave it, let fate decide, everyone has their own destiny, she has to make this choice herself, after I leave, she’ll still feel the positive effects of the divorce, if she still misses the past… even an ascended god can’t help her.”

    “Even gods can’t help a lovestruck fool,” Jiang Zhiyan said with emotion.

    “I’m done!” Xie Liaoyi exclaimed, putting the documents in a pile and beckoning Jiang Zhiyan. “Let’s go, let’s eat.”

    Jiang Zhiyan, holding Xie Liaoyi’s hand, walked through the office area, the people still working overtime looked up and greeted them.

    “Get off work early, there’s no rush, you can do it tomorrow,” Jiang Zhiyan said. “Focus on efficiency, what’s the point of working overtime?”

    After she finished speaking, they saw Xie Liaoyi also nod, and several people quickly started packing their things, those who were faster even squeezed into the same elevator with them.

    “Your relationship is so enviable.”

    Jiang Zhiyan nodded: “Indeed, we’re the best.”

    The others in the elevator laughed.

    “Assistant Jiang is so approachable outside of work hours.”

    “I’m only in my early twenties, and I’m already being described as approachable?” Jiang Zhiyan glanced at the speaker, it was the head of the planning department, who had been reduced to a sweating mess by her words earlier.

    The elevator reached the basement level, and as soon as the doors opened, everyone saw Mu Chen standing at the corner, holding a bouquet of flowers.

    They exchanged glances, exited the elevator, wanting to watch the drama unfold, but since it involved their CEO, they were a bit hesitant, their legs, however, were very honest, slowing down, glancing back repeatedly, several of them might be diagnosed with strabismus on the spot.

    Everyone in the company knew that Mu Chen was pursuing Jin Shuang again, but this was the first time he had appeared at the company.

    “You’re like a leech,” Jiang Zhiyan rolled her eyes.

    “You told me to go to the hospital for a checkup last time, I did, and I’m perfectly healthy,” Mu Chen said.

    “But that doesn’t change the fact that you’re trash,” Jiang Zhiyan raised an eyebrow.

    The onlookers exchanged glances.

    Mu Chen frowned at Jiang Zhiyan: “This is between us, Jiang Zhiyan, can you stop meddling?”

    “We’re so close, of course I can’t just watch her jump back into the fire pit, Mr. Mu, have you had too many plastic friendships, so you don’t know what a real friend is like?” Jiang Zhiyan raised an eyebrow.

    Mu Chen pursed his lips, her words hitting a nerve. Since his divorce from Jin Shuang and their falling out, many people around him had switched sides and abandoned him.

    “Shuangshuang, you tell her.”

    “Stop harassing her,” Jiang Zhiyan said, standing in front of Mu Chen.

    “I’ve already said this many times, stay away from me,” Xie Liaoyi said, twitching the corner of her mouth. “Or show some sincerity in your pursuit, like shares in the Mu Corporation, or the development project in the eastern district, who needs roses?”

    Mu Chen looked at Xie Liaoyi: “You’ve really changed.”

    Jiang Zhiyan rolled her eyes: “Of course she’s changed, idiot,” if he couldn’t even recognize that she wasn’t the same person, then what was the point of talking about love?

    “No one stays stupid forever,” Xie Liaoyi said, pulling Jiang Zhiyan past him.

    Mu Chen reached out to grab Xie Liaoyi’s wrist, but Jiang Zhiyan slapped his hand away. Mu Chen gasped in pain, if it weren’t for saving face, he might have rolled on the ground, he looked down at his wrist, it was already swelling.

    Mu Chen had a feeling Jiang Zhiyan had intended to break his wrist.

    He watched as Jiang Zhiyan got into Xie Liaoyi’s car, then… kissed Xie Liaoyi, then glared at him.

    Mu Chen: ???

    Mu Chen’s eyes widened.

    The onlookers were curious about what Mu Chen had seen, but what happened in the car could only be seen from his angle, they were very disappointed that they hadn’t found a better spot.

    Mu Chen threw the flowers in the trash and returned to his own car.

    “Did he see it?” Xie Liaoyi asked.

    Jiang Zhiyan nodded: “He saw it, hopefully he’ll be sensible and stop bothering you.”

    “You just took the initiative to kiss me, does that mean my pursuit was successful?”

    “It doesn’t count, I was just helping you get rid of a nuisance,” Jiang Zhiyan said, folding her arms. “Let’s have something nice for dinner tonight.”

    “When do we not eat well? Or do you want something else?”

    Jiang Zhiyan raised an eyebrow: “I feel like you’re hinting at something.”

    “I swear, everything I said was completely innocent, just the literal meaning.”

    “When you have to explain like that, it means you also know what you’re implying,” Jiang Zhiyan snorted. “I’m not eating anything, I’m abstaining to cultivate my health.”

    Xie Liaoyi tried to hold back, but she couldn’t help but laugh.

    Jiang Zhiyan: ?

    “I’m angry.”

    “Angry baby,” Xie Liaoyi retorted. “I’m going to change your contact name later.”

    Jiang Zhiyan stared at Xie Liaoyi’s profile, and when the latter looked over, she quickly looked away, out the window.

    Xie Liaoyi laughed even louder.

  • The Saintess Has A Showdown 205-206

    Chapter 205: That Woman

    At the entrance to the 73rd Saint Court of the Cangsheng Palace…

    A group of Cangsheng Palace Spirit Masters stared at the Sea Region girls with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension, beads of sweat trickling down their foreheads.

    Their cultivation levels were low, all at the Dead Sea Stage except for one strangely powerful, blind girl in her Awakening Period.

    But… how many Saint-rank spirit beasts did they have?!

    Three? Or four…?

    The Pool of Hidden Secrets Spirit Masters were all severely injured and unconscious, some perhaps even dead, only forty remaining.

    But even these forty, among them, there were definitely more than two or three Saint-rank spirit beasts hidden. They could annihilate the 73rd Saint Court in an instant.

    Such terrifying power… only the higher-ranking Saint Courts possessed such spirit beasts!

    According to their story, they had encountered the Snow Monarch in the Ranking Battle’s secret realm and been on the verge of being completely frozen when they were suddenly released.

    Even stranger, instead of returning to the Sea Region, they had been transported to the Cangsheng Palace.

    “Who is your leader?” the woman in charge asked.

    “…”
    “…”

    The Sea Region Spirit Masters exchanged glances, but no one stepped forward.

    They belonged to different factions. There was no clear leader.

    The woman sighed and tried a different approach. “Then which faction is the highest ranked among you?”

    Everyone turned towards the Winter Floating Sky group, where a beautiful, white-haired, blind girl was looking up at the sky, seemingly oblivious to everything.

    The highest-ranked faction, the Alliance leader, had sent an Awakening Period… disabled girl… to the crucial Ranking Battle!

    The woman was shocked by the Winter Floating Sky higher-ups’… thought process.

    Thwack!

    Suddenly, someone kicked her from behind, sending her sprawling, her body bent like a shrimp.

    She clutched her backside, writhing on the ground, a strange mix of pain and… pleasure… on her face, before being casually kicked aside by the girl with a ponytail who had just arrived.

    “Which one of you is the strongest?”

    Liu Yin, the Saintess of the 73rd Saint Court, asked impatiently. Both the Sea Region group’s dawdling and her own subordinate’s stupidity were irritating.

    A few seconds later, following the others’ gazes, her eyes fell upon a blue-haired girl.

    An elegant, wave-patterned robe, long, flowing water-blue hair, a beautiful, delicate face adorned with six shimmering teardrops.

    The girl sat on a boulder, idly toying with the ice flower ring on her finger, seemingly unconcerned with her surroundings, lost in thought.

    Liu Yin’s impatience vanished, her eyes widening, a chill running down her spine.

    The Cangsheng Palace was a realm of mixed spirit energy, primarily water, fire, wind, and darkness, with traces of other, rarer attributes, though few cultivated them.

    Liu Yin herself had a strong affinity for water, her contracted spirit beasts all water-type.

    That was why, at this moment, she felt such a profound sense of dread.

    Her very being trembled before this blue-haired, teardrop-eyed girl.

    A mere ripple of the girl’s spirit energy was enough to disrupt her aura, sending it into a chaotic, uncontrolled flux, almost shattering it.

    Liu Yin’s body was drenched in a cold sweat. She looked around at the other Cangsheng Palace Spirit Masters, their expressions blank and confused.

    Were these fools blind?

    That Dead Sea Stage, blue-haired girl… she hadn’t even registered their presence!

    Such an aloof, almost divine demeanor… it was like—

    A mixture of awe and fear, an almost manic fascination, consumed Liu Yin as she approached the blue-haired girl, each step bringing a fresh wave of terror, her body trembling, sweat pouring from her, soaking her clothes, droplets trickling down her legs.

    “Excuse me, your… your… your name?”

    Hearing the voice, the blue-haired girl looked up, her beautiful, teardrop eyes finally acknowledging Liu Yin’s presence.

    At that moment, as everyone watched in confusion, tears welled up in Liu Yin’s eyes.

    If it was this woman… she could definitely defeat one of the Water Element’s commanders!!!

    Then, a cold voice echoed,

    “Gong Lianyue, Sorrowful Saintess of the Sea Concubine Palace.”

    Three days had passed since the Sea Region Spirit Masters arrived at the Cangsheng Palace’s 73rd Saint Court. They had been treated with the utmost hospitality.

    The Spirit Masters of the 73rd Saint Court, having a strong affinity for water, were naturally friendly towards those of the same attribute.

    And Liu Yin, the Saintess, had even offered to provide an escort back to the Sea Region. After all, the Wind Realm was currently in a state of high alert, the Cangsheng Palace especially tense and dangerous. It would be difficult for these Dead Sea Stage Spirit Masters to return safely on their own.

    However, in exchange, they had to leave behind a few elite Spirit Masters to help her breach the legendary Water Element’s defenses.

    Of course, this was just Liu Yin’s way of testing Gong Lianyue. She didn’t actually care about the others.

    Strangely, upon hearing her request, the Sea Region Spirit Masters exchanged uneasy glances, then remained silent.

    After all, that legendary Water Element was Gong Lianyue’s spirit beast. If the Cangsheng Palace found out and decided to… retaliate…

    Gong Lianyue hadn’t responded to Liu Yin’s request yet.

    Since arriving at the Cangsheng Palace, she had noticed something strange. She could no longer sense the spirit energy or auras of the other Spirit Masters, as if they were fireflies trying to compete with the moon, their light invisible.

    And that shattered core… why did it feel so… restless…?

    Chapter 206: The Mystery of Legends (2)

    –Cangsheng Palace, 73rd Saint Court

    Three days had passed since the Sea Region Spirit Masters arrived at the 73rd Saint Court. Most were already discussing their return.

    After all, their friends and loved ones were in the Sea Region. Even if it meant facing the threat of the Snow Monarch, they had to return.

    Although that was their stated reason, they probably also felt that the Cangsheng Palace, with its three legendary beings, was the greater threat.

    It was said that the Wind Realm was even mobilizing a massive army. If war broke out, they would be caught in the crossfire.

    Their return date was set for two days from now.

    During this time, Liu Yin, the Saintess of the 73rd Court, tried to investigate the Sorrowful Saintess, but her clearance level was insufficient. Only the top ten Saint Courts had access to that information.

    She could access the classified information about the Pool of Hidden Secrets’ revival, but not the Sorrowful Saintess’s profile… How absurd!

    Meanwhile, the Winter Floating Sky Spirit Masters faced a different problem.

    Their Desireless Saintess refused to leave.

    The beautiful, white-haired girl sat elegantly on her bed, gazing out the window, her expression serene.

    Despite lacking all five senses, she possessed an almost otherworldly charm.

    If someone led her to the bath or the dining hall, she would follow obediently.

    But if they mentioned returning home, she would simply turn away, ignoring them.

    She seemed strangely drawn to the Cangsheng Palace.

    The four Winter Floating Sky Spirit Masters were getting desperate. What was the point of them escaping if they couldn’t bring their Saintess back? A war was about to break out!

    “The Holy Water Body…”

    Standing outside the window, watching the white-haired girl, Gong Lianyue muttered softly.

    After several days of observation, she was certain. This Desireless Saintess, Xue Beihan, possessed a true Holy Water Body, a world apart from her own temporary Holy Water Body activated by the black crown.

    Once she broke through the Awakening Period and her spirit beast slots opened, she would be inundated with offers from water-type Saint-ranks.

    And the Winter Floating Sky’s reason for suppressing her cultivation was… interesting. Such ambition, looking down even on Saint-rank spirit beasts…

    If she forced Xue Beihan to break through to the Illumination Stage, what would the Winter Floating Sky’s reaction be?

    “Since she doesn’t want to leave, I can watch over her. I’ll protect her.”

    Hearing the cold voice behind them, the four Winter Floating Sky Spirit Masters turned around in surprise.

    The blue-haired, teardrop-eyed girl approached, her clear, unwavering gaze fixed on the white-haired girl sitting on the bed.

    Unbelievable. The Sorrowful Saintess… offering to take care of the Desireless Saintess?

    Was this… solidarity among Saintesses?

    “Wait, isn’t the Sorrowful Saintess returning to the Sea Region?” one of the younger Spirit Masters asked, surprised.

    “I have some business here. I won’t be returning for now. Please inform your superiors. I’ll ensure the Desireless Saintess’s safety,” Gong Lianyue nodded.

    “Don’t worry, we trust the Sorrowful Saintess completely!!”

    The Winter Floating Sky Spirit Masters were relieved. They could finally return to the Sea Region without worry.

    Even if something happened, the Sorrowful Saintess herself had guaranteed her safety.

    And so, under their grateful gazes, Gong Lianyue took charge of the white-haired girl.

    Holding Xue Beihan’s small, delicate hand, she walked through the 73rd Saint Court, drawing curious glances.

    The Cangsheng Palace’s architecture favored silver. Towering silver pillars, like a sky-reaching castle.

    After walking for about ten minutes, Gong Lianyue reached her assigned quarters.

    She filled a basin with cold water, undressed the Desireless Saintess, and placed her inside.

    Her snow-white skin, her delicate features… she was quite beautiful. If Sacred Water, Lover, were here, it might even rate her as “high-tier, below average,” the same as herself.

    After all, she possessed the legendary Holy Water Body…

    However, having witnessed the Snow Monarch’s beauty, she no longer felt any attraction towards humans.

    From today onwards, she was responsible for Xue Beihan’s care. Although troublesome, Gong Lianyue didn’t mind spending time with a true Holy Water Body.

    Xue Beihan’s soft, white hair spread out in the water as she lowered her head, blowing bubbles.

    “Quite playful. This will do for now.”

    Gong Lianyue nodded, satisfied, and returned to her room, retrieving a worn roll of parchment.

    With some free time today, she would finish reading the list of legendary beings, hoping to find a clue about the Water Element’s true identity.

    Since the Water Element was in the Cangsheng Palace, she was determined to bring it back to the Sea Region.

    Preparing herself, the girl’s ice-blue eyes unfocused, her expression turning slightly vacant.

    [Switch]

    [Natural Form!!!] → See cover image.

    In this state, Gong Lianyue could easily decipher any spirit beast language.

    And this “Mystery of Legends,” written in the complex language of humanoid spirit beasts, would become as clear as day.

    [The Mystery of Legends (in no particular order)]

    [1. Snow Monarch (Water/Ice)]
    [2. Dark Night Concubine (Darkness)]
    [3. Great Demon of the White Mansion (Wind/Combat)]
    [4. Blazing Heart of Purgatory (Fire)]
    [5. Withered Bones Whisper (Ghost/Blood)]
    [6. Nether Peach (Combat)]

    “Phew~~~”

    Gong Lianyue rubbed her slightly sore eyes. After being exposed to the auras of the Snow Monarch and the Jade Concubine, she seemed to have developed a tolerance for legendary beings, no longer exploding her eyeballs just from reading their names.

    So far, they were mostly elemental and combat types. After all, besides combat types, ninety-nine percent of biological spirit beasts were weapon types, which couldn’t have humanoid forms.

    After a short rest, she continued reading.

    [7. Ice Crown Emperor (Ice)]

    “Hmm…?”

    Gong Lianyue paused.

    Ice Crown Emperor… she immediately thought of the black crown left behind by the Water Element. Could there be a connection?

    [Legendary-rank Elemental Offensive Ice-attribute – Ice Crown Emperor]
    [The Ice Crown Emperor, tyrannical and unpredictable, its main color purple, does not allow…]

    Seeing this, Gong Lianyue sighed. It seemed the Water Element’s true identity wasn’t recorded here.

    The last three weren’t water or ice-attribute either, so they were unlikely to be related to the Water Element.

    She would have to find another way…

  • Shion’s Notes 149

    Chapter 149: Hard Times

    “Nana, what’s wrong? Are you feeling unwell?”

    Wu Siyu was taken aback. She had never heard Yu Linna speak like this before. How could she consider herself a burden?

    This child…

    “Don’t say that. We’re family…”

    “No, we’re not!”

    Yu Linna’s sharp denial made Wu Siyu’s heart ache, though she quickly masked her emotions. She knew, deep down, that no matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t replace Yu Linna’s real family, the missing link of blood.

    But her desire to care for Yu Linna, to treat her as her own, was genuine.

    However, Yu Linna couldn’t accept her kindness.

    Though young, she understood they weren’t related, not truly family. And seeing their financial struggles, she couldn’t help but feel responsible, her presence adding to their burden.

    “Nana, it might take time, but trust me, I’ll become your family. Just… wait a little longer, okay?”

    No, no, Yu Linna’s heart screamed in protest. She was terrified.

    She was alone, unburdened by attachments, but Wu Siyu’s kindness made her feel responsible. If her presence caused their family to fall apart, she would never forgive herself.

    Yu Linna was unusually mature for her age, unlike other children who accepted things easily. She overthought everything, her mind burdened by adult concerns. Though she enjoyed taking advantage of others, accepting their generosity, she also avoided being a burden, especially to those she cared about.

    Wu Siyu, puzzled by her behavior, left to attend to other matters. Her husband’s studio was struggling, and she had gone to help, her experience as an orphanage director proving useful. And with their financial difficulties, she needed to find a job.

    Huo Ningning, still young, didn’t fully understand her parents’ struggles, but she sensed their worries, their constant frowns dampening her usual playful spirit. She had become unusually quiet and subdued. Yu Linna, meanwhile, was consumed by anxiety.

    She had lived at the orphanage for less than three months before it was demolished. She had been at Aunt Wu’s house for less than a month, and now they were facing a financial crisis. She couldn’t shake the feeling that she was a jinx. The thought made her even more anxious. Aunt Wu was the person she cared about most; she didn’t want to cause her any pain.

    “Little Linna, what’s wrong? You seem unhappy.”

    “Do I?”

    “You’re not smiling. Smiling makes you happy! Come on, let’s play!”

    Fortunately, Huo Ningning’s playful nature kept Yu Linna from completely succumbing to despair. Though initially resentful of Yu Linna for monopolizing her mother’s attention, she had grown fond of her, their initial friction forgotten.

    But today, Yu Linna wasn’t in the mood to play, not just today, but for days now. She was distracted, her mind elsewhere, even during class, unable to focus, despite her intelligence and perfect test scores. Even her teachers noticed her lack of attention, reprimanding her in class.

    “Why aren’t you playing? Do you not want to play with me…?”

    “No… I just…”

    Seeing Yu Linna’s constant distraction, Huo Ningning felt a pang of sadness. Her parents were struggling, and now Linna was too. Why was everyone so unhappy?

    “Little Linna, my mommy said she brought you from an orphanage. Is that true?”

    “Yes.”

    “You don’t have a mommy and daddy?”

    “No.”

    “And no home?”

    “No.”

    Children often asked blunt questions, questions an older Huo Ningning wouldn’t dare to ask.

    “No wonder Mommy keeps saying she wants you to be part of our family.”

    “…She really said that?”

    “Yes! So, we’ll be a family soon! Everything will be alright. Just stay here. I’ll play with you.”

    Yu Linna remained silent, her unease growing. So many things had gone wrong since she arrived; she couldn’t just stay here, carefree. She was an outsider, no matter how hard she tried, she would never truly belong.

    The financial problems persisted, and Wu Siyu, desperate for money, started looking for a job. At thirty, her prime years were behind her, and few companies were interested in hiring her. Despite her best efforts, she only managed to secure a position in logistics, a menial job, but it was better than nothing, and the daily wages were crucial for their immediate needs.

    And then, disaster struck.

    Huo Qiulin, stressed and burdened, often drank to cope. One day, after drinking during the day, he received a call about a new project and rushed out, still slightly intoxicated. And then, it happened.

    His judgment impaired by alcohol, he lost control of the car, crashing into a road sign. Though his injuries weren’t life-threatening, he had to be hospitalized for two weeks, and worse, he was charged with drunk driving, his license revoked.

    The Huo family was plunged into crisis.

    Their already precarious situation worsened.

    Yu Linna and Huo Ningning visited him at the hospital. Huo Qiulin, his face pale, his spirit broken, looked defeated, his unshaven face adding to his haggard appearance.

    “You’re here. Have some fruit. I’m fine. I just need some rest.”

    He forced a smile, gesturing for them to come closer. Huo Ningning, still young and unable to comprehend the situation, burst into tears.

    “Ningning, don’t cry. Everything will be alright. Don’t cry.”

    “Daddy…”

    “Siyu, take Ningning outside.”

    Huo Qiulin, unable to bear his daughter’s tears, asked his wife to take her out of the ward, not wanting to disturb the other patients. Only Yu Linna remained.

    “Little Linna, have something to eat. I’m sorry you have to go through this. I wanted to give you a better life.”

    Seeing him trying to be strong, she couldn’t pretend to be oblivious. She wasn’t stupid; she could see his pain. But unlike Ningning, she didn’t cry.

    “Uncle… is it because of me…? Is this all my fault…?”

    “Don’t say that! What does this have to do with you?”

    “I overheard. Is it because… because there’s one more mouth to feed now?”

    “…”

    Huo Qiulin was speechless.

    Their financial situation was precarious, his income barely enough to support their family. Wu Siyu had often worked extra jobs, even while managing the orphanage, a clear sign of their financial struggles. Though their income wasn’t high before, it had been stable, enough for a small family.

    But with Wu Siyu unemployed and Yu Linna’s arrival, they were struggling to make ends meet.

    “What are you talking about, child…?”

    Huo Qiulin tried to deflect.

    “Uncle, I’m not stupid. I know you and Auntie could barely afford to raise Ningning.”

    “…You’re… not like other children.”

    Huo Qiulin’s forced smile couldn’t hide his despair.

    Children were supposed to be oblivious, innocent. Why was this child so perceptive? Were orphans simply more attuned to such things?

    Perhaps. Having no parents, having to rely on herself, Yu Linna was naturally more sensitive to such matters.

    “Uncle, you just admitted it.”

    “Don’t tell your Aunt Wu. She’ll think I told you. Listen, child, I love my wife, so when she brought you home, I respected her decision. She loves you, and I’ll try to love you too. It’s that simple.”

    “Uncle, I don’t understand.”

    “Of course, you don’t. You’re a child. It’s called love. You’ll understand when you’re older. Just… don’t overthink things. No matter how difficult things get, we’ll take care of you until you’re an adult. Your Aunt Wu and I, we both feel the same way.”

    They were too kind.

    No one had ever been so kind to her. Even struggling financially, they still wanted to care for her. What kind of people were they? Yu Linna was deeply touched.

    And that was precisely why she couldn’t be a burden to them.

    Their kindness made her feel like a burden. They were working so hard, while she, unable to contribute, only added to their struggles. If she were truly their family, it would be different, but she was just an outsider.

    And they treated her so well, an outsider… would she ever meet such kind people again? Probably not. She would remember their kindness, but she couldn’t impose on them any longer.

    Perhaps she shouldn’t have come here.

    If she hadn’t, she would simply be in another orphanage, or waiting to be adopted, not burdening this family.

    She finally understood. She didn’t belong here. No matter how kind they were, she would never truly be one of them.

    “I want to leave…”

    “Be careful on your way back.”

    Huo Qiulin misunderstood, unable to comprehend such a thought from a child. A child, with no resources, no means of survival… where could she possibly go?

    Yu Linna genuinely wanted to leave, but she wasn’t sure if she could bring herself to do it. Because in this house, besides Aunt Wu, there was also Huo Ningning, her friend.

  • Back to Three Years Old: Crushing Scumbags on a Parenting Reality Show 147

    Chapter 147

    Children were powerless.

    This power didn’t simply refer to physical strength or wealth.

    It referred more to… knowledge.

    One wasn’t born with knowledge. Most people started from ignorance, living, learning, making mistakes, correcting them, then, in the blink of an eye, they were already decades old.

    And the most ironic thing was, some of the most important things to learn and understand at the beginning, there was no one to teach them, no one to tell them, leaving them struggling in confusion and contradictions, doubting themselves, unable to find answers, this cycle repeating for years, even decades, before finally gaining a sliver of knowledge that could have saved them years of pain if they had known it earlier.

    Not all parents loved their children.

    People were complex, multifaceted, they wouldn’t suddenly become selfless and loving just because they were given a certain title.

    Why desperately seek love that couldn’t be felt? Why force yourself to eat candy laced with poison? Was there only that one love, that one candy in the world?

    …

    Much knowledge wasn’t complicated, it was just that children lacked the knowledge and perspective.

    The mainstream advocated the silent depth of paternal love and the selfless greatness of maternal love. Compared to questioning why their loved ones didn’t fit the societal norms, ignorant children would naturally choose to doubt themselves first.

    It must be because I’m not good enough, it must be my fault…

    Of course, one day, they would grow up and be able to see through the individual differences beneath the moral facade, but by then, no matter how clearly they saw, they couldn’t go back and save their younger selves from those years of pain.

    Cheng Tingyan felt truly lucky, she actually had a chance to save herself.

    Liking someone was a beautiful and addictive feeling. Sometimes, even without reciprocation, just the feeling of liking someone could bring immense joy. After meeting Little Cookie in her previous life, Cheng Tingyan started to understand why Liu Qiongfang was always chasing love, wanting to be loved.

    Mom was also a woman, a person, an ordinary person who wanted to love and be loved. Not losing herself because of a change in identity, it was good. Reborn, Cheng Tingyan had no intention of changing Liu Qiongfang. But this time, she would still work hard to earn money for the medical expenses, but she wouldn’t let herself become a part of Liu Qiongfang’s pursuit of love.

    Chasing, competing, infatuation, resentment… What did the emotional entanglements of the previous generation have to do with her, Cheng Tingyan?

    Cutting ties quickly and decisively, she had already done too much in her previous life, things she should and shouldn’t have done, in this life, Cheng Tingyan just wanted to stay away from those strange people and live peacefully until the day she met Little Cookie again.

    Her life in her previous life ended right before the most anticipated and beautiful moment, the unresolved resentment condensed into thick ice, Cheng Tingyan felt she could handle everything coldly, seal her heart and lock away her love during the days waiting for their reunion… Uh…

    “Yan Yan, Uncle Shi will definitely help you find your grandma, your mom will be so happy, she’ll definitely agree to take back your custody!”

    The soft and pudding-like little chubby bunny, as soon as she got into the car, snuggled up to her, a chubby paw reaching out, along with her soft, childish words of comfort.

    Cheng Tingyan squeezed the little paw in her hand and smiled slightly, what a naive and adorable little baby. Happiness? It was unlikely anyone would be happy, but… Cheng Tingyan looked at the little chubby bunny, who was grumbling and asking Wei Chengli to move the two child safety seats closer so they could hold hands, she heard the soft cracking sound of the ice around her heart.

    This world, there was still some cuteness, making it impossible for her to completely shut herself off.

    Unlike Cheng Tingyan, who was charmed by the cute bunny, Wei Chengli truly felt that although some little things were cute, they were also… truly annoying!

    “How can I move them? I can’t, they’re stuck. Just make do, why blame the child safety seats for not being able to hold hands, blame your own short arms.” Wei Chengli said, after struggling to move the seats, he was even tugged at by the little rascal, he hummed and gave up, ready to just let it be.

    Just then, Wei Chengli, who was standing outside the car, half of his body inside, felt three “polite” taps on his spine.

    Wei Chengli turned around in shock and saw Qin Sichao standing behind him, smiling.

    “Can I ride with you guys?” Qin Sichao asked, rubbing his hands. “I want to be with the little babies.”

    Hehehe, of course, he could.

    Wei Chengli politely moved aside and even pulled his own baby out.

    Two minutes later, Qin Sichao, squeezed between the two child safety seats, looked at the little chubby baby on his left, who was secretly glancing at him, then at Cheng Tingyan, who was sitting upright on his right. Mmm… It wasn’t what he had imagined.

    Wei Chengli, in the passenger seat, leaned back comfortably. Finally, someone else could experience what he felt last time when he wanted to be with the babies. As expected, after experiencing the rain, one would want to tear apart someone else’s umbrella, heh.

    Qin Sichao, unaware that he was currently experiencing the rain, reached out and rubbed the little chubby baby’s soft hair, preparing to start a conversation with the softer one.

    “Maomao, your uncle and I are in the same profession as your dad, we’re also directors. I’m going to film a movie next, do you want to play a role? Don’t worry, it won’t be tiring, just a few scenes.” Qin Sichao said with a smile.

    Maomao, slumped in her child safety seat like a salted fish, was about to refuse when she suddenly remembered that she also had to support someone now, she immediately sat up straight.

    Wei Chengli in the front passenger seat tried to turn around, he was still struggling between letting his child have a normal childhood and letting her experience a different life, then he saw the little rascal’s eyes light up, and she asked, “Will you pay me?”

    Wei Chengli was so angry that he almost twisted his neck.

    Not to mention anything else, for Qin Sichao’s film, there were countless people lining up with money, just for a cameo, this child truly…

    Qin Sichao was also stunned by her directness, but he quickly nodded with a smile. “Yes, yes, yes.”

    “Okay.” Wei Maomao didn’t ask how much. She had self-awareness, she was only three years old, being paid was good enough, it would be great if there were more opportunities like this. Even if the pay was low and the work was demanding, she could still save money, she could do it.

    “Yan Yan, I also have a suitable role for you. After your family matters are settled, come and film with me too?” Qin Sichao said, after securing the softer one, he turned to the other one.

    It was a bit early to mention this. But after contacting Cheng Tingyan’s grandma, an elderly person taking care of a paralyzed daughter and a young child, there might be financial concerns. He had a job here, ready and waiting, it would be somewhat helpful.

    Qin Sichao truly hoped that Cheng Tingyan’s grandma could take care of them, take over the custody from the Cheng family. Not to mention that future collaborations would be less problematic, this six-year-old little girl, she deserved a better life. There wasn’t much he could do, but he could at least mention the collaboration he had in mind in advance.

    This was a day of Qin Sichao diligently recruiting people.

    Not only was he trying to recruit the little babies into his film crew in this car, he had also rearranged the people in the other two cars before getting in.

    He took the driver from Shi Dingshan’s car and put him in Zeng Huanian’s car, then took Shi Hongxiao from Zeng Huanian’s car and put him in the driver’s seat of Shi Dingshan’s car. Finally, Qin Sichao, his good deeds done, got into this baby-filled car.

    Unlike the lively atmosphere in Qin Sichao’s car, with questions and answers, the car with only Shi Dingshan and Shi Hongxiao was very quiet.

    Shi Hongxiao wanted to ask Shi Dingshan how he was feeling, but thinking about why Shi Dingshan was hospitalized, he couldn’t ask, he could only hold it in.

    In the end, it was Shi Dingshan, after glancing at Shi Hongxiao’s bruised eye a few times, who broke the silence with a sigh.

    “You’re not very good at fighting, go take some classes after this and learn a few moves.”

    “Mmm!”

    “There’s a doctor at the villa, go and see him when we get back, be careful with injuries around the eyes.”

    “Mmm.”

    “I heard you and Liu Ming entered the air-raid shelter almost at the same time, you were so much slower than her, are you still directionally challenged like when you were a child?”

    “Mmm…”

    Shi Dingshan turned to look at Shi Hongxiao, who seemed to be only capable of making monosyllabic sounds, even though his throat wasn’t injured. “Is ‘mmm’ the only word you know?”

    “How… is your heart? Is it okay to be discharged from the hospital just like that?” Shi Hongxiao asked, his gaze fixed on the road ahead, his hands gripping the steering wheel tightly, he finally asked the question he had been holding in.

    “It’s fine.” Shi Dingshan said, after a pause. “Don’t overthink it, you’re different from him. Before I married your mom, I already knew that you weren’t my biological child. Later, my feelings for her faded, there was nothing we could do about it. But when we were together, it was genuine, there was no deception. It’s different from that woman who just wanted my money.”

    “… “ Shi Hongxiao’s grip on the steering wheel tightened, then tightened again, he finally couldn’t help but say in a low voice, “Can I… take care of you when you’re old? I won’t take your money. You can donate all your money when you’re old, I’ll use my own money to take care of you. Don’t worry about me trying to scam you.”

    His increasingly rapid speech revealed his sincerity.

    Shi Dingshan, never expecting Shi Hongxiao to say this, was stunned.

    This child truly…

    The person who only knew how to say “mmm” when they chatted before, why were his words so piercing now, oh… no, it was a lemon candy sword.

    Shi Dingshan turned his head to look out the window, using the breeze to suppress the stinging in his eyes.

    Hmph, which idiot would work hard their entire life, then donate all their money just to have someone take care of them when they were old? Wouldn’t it be better to just hire eight nannies and have them cater to his every need! His decades of salary as a cameraman wouldn’t even be enough for him…

    “Okay, work hard, earn more money. I’ll donate everything later, then I’ll eat your food, live in your house.” Shi Dingshan said calmly, looking at the green mountains outside the window.

    “Mmm!”

    Okay, back to the familiar monosyllabic response.

    Shi Dingshan turned his head slightly and saw a clear smile on the person who had just given a serious “mmm.”

    Heh, there were truly many fools in this world who wanted to work hard.

    Shi Dingshan leaned back in his seat and closed his eyes.

    “You sleep for a bit, I’ll wake you up when we arrive.”

    The fool next to him said unnecessarily.

    Shi Dingshan, his eyes still closed, said, “What ‘you,’ show some respect, call me Dad.”

    Silence filled the car again.

    It lasted for a while, just as Shi Dingshan couldn’t hold back and was about to open his eyes, the fool next to him finally spoke again.

    “Dad, let’s go fly kites again after this show ends.”

    Shi Dingshan, his eyes closed, vaguely remembered that autumn many years ago, after his divorce, he took Shi Hongxiao to fly kites one last time, then told him… Live a good life with your mom, Dad is leaving.

    What a fool, such a good memory.

    “Okay.” Shi Dingshan said, taking a deep breath, he agreed.

    “Let’s go to Chongnan Park again.”

    “Okay.” He even remembered the location.

    “They’re still selling homemade popsicles there.”

    “We’ll buy them.” Okay, he even remembered the popsicles they didn’t get to eat that time.

    “And also…”

    Shi Dingshan opened his eyes and sat up straight. “What’s going on? I’m not even old yet, and there are so many requests?”

    Shi Hongxiao said weakly, “I’ll treat you…”

    “We’ll go, we’ll buy them, we’ll eat them, after the filming, you can have as many as you want, stop nagging, focus on driving.” Shi Dingshan said, interrupting him forcefully, he couldn’t handle this pure affection, still recovering from his emotional trauma.

    The person in the passenger seat pretended to be asleep.

    The person driving smiled quietly.

    Fate was truly strange.

    But sometimes, for someone who had just been reborn and hadn’t fully adapted yet, it was a bit too strange.

    The three cars returned to the villa area, and as soon as Cheng Tingyan got out of the car, she heard Qin Sichao’s exclamation.

    “Heh, as expected of me, it’s a loss for the variety show world that I’m not filming parent-child shows.”

    Cheng Tingyan, confused, followed Qin Sichao’s gaze and only saw Shi Hongxiao, Wei Maomao’s cameraman, helping Shi Dingshan get out of the car behind them. What did this have to do with parent-child variety shows…

    Wait…

    Cheng Tingyan’s eyes widened slightly, it couldn’t be…

    “Xiao Shi is also the cameraman Director Shi assigned to watch over the babies, right?” Wei Chengli asked, looking at Qin Sichao.

    “Yes, although he’s not related to me, Xiao Shi is a good person, more trustworthy than the others.” Qin Sichao whispered, then sighed. “Hopefully, he can bring some comfort to Lao Shan.”

    Cheng Tingyan: “… “

    Okay, another exceptionally important and suspicious person who deviated completely from her previous life’s trajectory.

    Earlier, after Wei Chengli was called away, the other dads were also notified and returned to the villa.

    Without Shi Dingshan’s permission, the staff members who knew about the situation didn’t dare to say anything, now the villa was filled with confused dads and babies, waiting for Shi Dingshan’s return.

    “There are many dark areas in the air-raid shelter, it was already deemed unsuitable for the treasure hunt, let alone for laser tag, which requires running.”

    “This was a mistake on the program team’s part, to avoid further mistakes and losses, the morning’s live broadcast was paused, it will resume during lunch.”

    “Little Wang Zhizhi’s wish to play laser tag, because all the laser tag arenas nearby are fully booked, even for tomorrow, we couldn’t find a place. So we’ll see if there’s an opportunity to fulfill it at the next location. If not, the program team will provide a sum of money for Little Wang Zhizhi to gather his friends and book a laser tag arena, you guys can play together when you have time.”

    Shi Dingshan didn’t say much about what Cheng Tingyan and Wei Maomao encountered in the air-raid shelter, telling the dads about it now would only cause trouble, it wouldn’t do any good. Both the authorities and he himself were investigating, they would find out eventually.

    Compared to playing, the dads were more concerned about the safety of the location, so no one complained about the early termination of the laser tag game. As for Wang Zhizhi, he was a bit disappointed, but thinking about having a chance to meet his friends again, he was happy again. Exchanging a few hours today for a whole day, even several days, in the future, it was a good deal!

    After Shi Dingshan appeased everyone regarding the morning’s situation, it wasn’t over yet.

    The first dad to come and talk to him privately was Wen Qiming.

    Although Maomao, the victim, had already said she believed Wen Jiangyue, and his daughter didn’t seem upset anymore, Wen Qiming still wanted justice for his daughter.

    Shi Dingshan understood, but… there was nothing he could do.

    Unlike today’s incident, where they caught the culprit red-handed, the bathroom incident two days ago was a “Rashomon” situation, there was no evidence, he could only rely on his intuition.

    Shi Dingshan could only vaguely imply that Wen Qiming might be able to vent his anger through the outcome of other matters.

    Of course, Wen Qiming wasn’t satisfied with this vague and somewhat mysterious response. But looking at Shi Dingshan’s pale face, how he had to hold onto the armrest even when sitting, Wen Qiming couldn’t bring himself to press further, he could only let it go for now. Of course, whether the other matters Shi Dingshan mentioned existed was another story, but it did give him a new idea. If he couldn’t vent his anger on this matter, he could find other matters to vent on.

    Shi Dingshan, after finally managing to appease Wen Qiming, hadn’t even had a sip of water when another person came.

    “Yes, I’ve already let him go. Jin Youliang is no longer the assistant director of our show. He’s already packed his things and left, we can’t call him back now. But telling the other babies not to mention their moms, not letting Wen Dongyu celebrate his birthday, that truly wasn’t the program team’s intention. How should I put it, Jin Youliang, this person, he’s a bit opportunistic, he would do things he thinks will benefit him in the future. So I believe those were his personal actions, I’m sure your dad didn’t ask him to do that.” Shi Dingshan said, he never expected that there was another consequence of Jin Youliang’s actions.

    The program team at most canceled the segment about inviting the moms and the video calls, they wouldn’t go as far as forbidding the other children from mentioning their moms.

    Shi Dingshan looked at Shen Zilin, who seemed to be wavering, and continued, “You also said that the babies in the families Director Zeng visited weren’t told not to mention their moms, right? If it was your dad’s intention, he would have come to me directly and asked me to arrange it for every baby. Or, after telling Jin Youliang, he wouldn’t have missed Director Zeng, right?”

    Shen Zilin’s face was slightly red, thinking about it, he was indeed being impulsive, getting caught up in his emotions.

    “How about this, it was also our negligence, not noticing the difference between the lunar and solar calendars for birthdays. We’ll hold a birthday party for Wen Dongyu this afternoon, what do you think?” Shi Dingshan said, offering a final solution.

    It was, of course, a good idea.

    Neither Shen Jianghe nor Shen Zilin wanted others to make way for their personal matters.

    But before Shen Zilin left, he said something that touched Shen Jianghe deeply.

    “Wen Dongyu said he missed his mom, Uncle Director, can you give him a gift, let him call his mom?”

    Shi Dingshan, exhausted, took a moment to process it before answering.

    In the next second, a small body leaned against him.

    “Missing Mom, it’s very sad, Uncle Director, can you help him?”

    Shen Zilin whispered, his hand covering his mouth, into Shi Dingshan’s ear.

    Shen Jianghe, who had very good hearing, standing next to them: “… “

    And so, in the afternoon, Wen Dongyu and his friends had a wonderful birthday party, he received a giant birthday cake with lots of cream, definitely not the kind that would make him choke, and the best gift from the director team, a ten-minute phone call with his mom!

    He was truly happy!

    The little babies, huddled together, happily munched on the cake.

    Shi Dingshan, watching from the monitoring room, was also quite happy.

    Earlier, to accommodate the request from the person he sent, they had to move the wishing activity to the evening. He was still thinking about how to fill the afternoon’s schedule. Now, with the birthday party, they had a legitimate reason to spend the afternoon eating, drinking, and playing at the villa, safe and effective.

    Now he could only hope that the person he sent would be successful.

    That street address mentioned in a dream, would there really be a courtyard with a large osmanthus tree?

    That person named Chen Sujuan, did she… truly exist…

    Was it a six-year-old child’s accurate analysis, or a six-year-old child’s vague mumbling?

    Shi Dingshan wasn’t sure.

    But he had indeed been negligent in his duties, he felt guilty. It was just a matter of sending someone over, he was willing to help Cheng Tingyan confirm it.

    As the sun set and night fell, the babies, after eating, playing, and having a good nap at the villa, were loaded into cars, heading towards the place where Wei Maomao’s wish would be fulfilled.

    And in another city, downstairs in a residential complex, a wheelchair bumped over the threshold of a private restaurant and stopped in front of a private room where someone was already waiting.

  • Devilish Disciple [Transmigration] 79p1

    Chapter 79: A Matter of Time p1

    After Weisheng Xuanzhu left, Li Yu sat on the floor and pulled the little wolf into her arms.

    The little creature, its tail drooping dejectedly, whimpered and snuggled against her.

    “This is my fault; I forgot that things are different here, but it’s not that different, really,” she said, picking up a twig and patiently explaining the complex characters to the little wolf, breaking them down into simpler strokes.

    Her voice was gentle and patient.

    The little wolf blinked its large, sad eyes, staring at the characters in the snow, trying to understand.

    As Li Yu taught, a thought suddenly occurred to her.

    She tentatively wrote two characters in the snow.

    The little wolf, its eyes filled with confusion, looked up at her, as if asking—why are you writing characters I’ve never seen before?

    “This is ‘Li,’ from dawn,” Li Yu said, pointing the twig at the second character, “and this is ‘Yu,’ from lush and vibrant.”

    The little wolf tilted its head, its confusion deepening.

    “This is…” Li Yu hesitated, then chuckled softly, gently pressing the pads of the little wolf’s paws. “I’m teaching you two new characters, do you want to learn?”

    The little wolf stared at the characters for a moment, then jumped down from her lap.

    Its small, gray paws clumsily copied the characters in the snow.

    Then, it hesitated, wrote “Li Yu” in the snow, and looked up at her, its eyes questioning.

    Li Yu: “They sound the same, right?”

    The little wolf nodded.

    Li Yu smiled faintly. “Many things in this world seem the same, but they’re actually different. Characters are the same, they might sound alike, but they can be written differently and have different meanings…”

    “These two characters…they’re our secret. Just remember them, don’t write them for Xuanzhu to see,” she said, rubbing the little wolf’s ears. “Okay?”

    The little wolf stared at the characters, then, after a moment of confusion, nodded and practiced writing them again.

    Li Yu watched as her real name, clumsily written by those small paws, filled the ground, a strange feeling rising within her.

    She knew that Mu Tao, four thousand years in the future, wouldn’t remember anything that happened in the North Sea.

    The wind and snow here could easily erase everything.

    The countless “whys” and the repeatedly written name would be swept away by the wind after a brief respite, leaving no trace.

    The answer someone sought, probably also long gone, scattered by the endless wind and snow of this eternal night.

    Perhaps that was why she could briefly be herself here.

    She liked it here.

    Here, she was just…an injured person.

    Even though her arrival was unexplained, her injuries unusual, her heart filled with secrets—no one questioned her presence or her motives.

    She didn’t have to worry about character compatibility or any responsibilities.

    The little wolf, understanding nothing, just wanted to be close to her.

    Weisheng Xuanzhu didn’t seem to care, always focused on the present.

    And Qing Nü, an ancient god nearing the end of her lifespan, the guardian of the Upper Spirit Lamp, hidden in this desolate place for over three thousand years, must also have secrets she couldn’t share.

    Such a person wouldn’t pry into her affairs.

    So, the North Sea four thousand years ago wasn’t so bad.

    Even in this cold, eternal night, there was still the moon, a quiet, clean world—and even with their hidden burdens, no one was truly alone.

    But these memories would soon belong only to her.

    Li Yu thought this, then paused, lost in thought.

    Perhaps she had made a mistake.

    Wanting to maintain some semblance of cause and effect, she had given the little wolf the name Mu Tao.

    But she had forgotten one thing: Weisheng Xuanzhu remembered everything.

    She had initially assumed that the theft of the Upper Spirit Lamp was targeted at “Li Yu,” its guardian, and that Mu Tao’s Demon Bone was accidentally exposed in Lingzhou.

    But now, she remembered more details.

    If she brought the name Mu Tao back to the North Sea four thousand years ago, then Weisheng Xuanzhu, four thousand years in the future, couldn’t possibly be indifferent to Mu Tao’s appearance.

    But the age didn’t match, the appearance didn’t match, and the Demon Bone and the seal within her drastically altered the little wolf’s aura.

    Even if he suspected something, he wouldn’t have any proof that Mu Tao was the little wolf from the past.

    But he might have never stopped suspecting.

    Li Yu almost forgot, the first time they entered the City of the Undying, a force had knocked Mu Tao unconscious and placed her in the core of the summoning formation.

    The little black bird couldn’t do that, and Qin Ruoheng, her consciousness scattered, wouldn’t have either.

    It must have been Weisheng Xuanzhu.

    He suspected that Mu Tao was the little wolf from his past, that his inability to recognize her was somehow related to the Heavenly Demon incident.

    So, he threw Mu Tao into the heart of the resentment-filled formation.

    Perhaps, from that moment on, he had already been certain about Mu Tao’s Demon Bone.

    As for how the Demon Bone ended up in Mu Tao, and why it appeared on Mount Chao Yao four thousand years after the Heavenly Demon’s death, that was the truth he sought.

    After destroying the Heavenly Gate, Weisheng Xuanzhu had also mentioned Mu Tao.

    He felt deceived, he found it ironic.

    He had found so many clues suggesting a hidden truth.

    Yet, the person most likely to know the truth, the one who had even secretly raised the little wolf with the Demon Bone, refused to tell him.

    No wonder he resorted to such drastic measures to revive the Heavenly Demon.

    There were too many unanswered questions, enough to become an obsession…

    Li Yu wondered, what would she do if she were him?

    She couldn’t find an answer, a heavy weight settling in her heart. She picked up the little wolf, who was still diligently practicing its writing, and held it close, as if its warmth could quell the turmoil within her.

    The little fluffball, sensing her troubled mood, tilted its head and licked her cheek comfortingly.

    This simple gesture always calmed her.

    Life continued its peaceful rhythm.

    The little wolf’s vocabulary expanded, and it could now communicate effectively through writing.

    Li Yu’s spiritual energy also gradually returned.

    She could now conjure butterfly messages and fly for short periods.

    On the day she finally regained her ability to fly, Li Yu excitedly took the little wolf to the edge of the island.

    This was the first time she saw the true North Sea beyond the island.

    It was a floating island.

    And beneath it, a vast, dark ocean, thousands of feet below.

    This was the true North Sea, a deep, lightless abyss.

    Yet, a full moon hung in the sky.

    The falling snow swirled in the wind, as if yearning to be swallowed by the sea.

    The black surface of the ocean was restless, the waves churning, their crests catching the moonlight, fleeting glimpses of silver.

    The vast emptiness was terrifying.

    Li Yu held her breath, then quickly returned to the small house, no longer daring to look at the dark abyss.

    The little wolf, sensing her fear, looked at her with surprise, and within that surprise, a hint of…joy.

    Without a second thought, it jumped from her arms and ran into the swirling snow.

    Li Yu, stunned, watched it go, then quickly followed.

    The little wolf ran to Weisheng Xuanzhu’s residence, barked and howled until he emerged, then ran towards Qing Nü’s courtyard.

    Li Yu followed, confused, and just as she reached the courtyard, she saw Qing Nü emerge from the house and the little wolf writing four clumsy characters in the snow.

    —Li Yu fears the sea!

    “Mu Tao!!!”

    Li Yu rushed forward and grabbed the little wolf by the scruff of its neck.

    Her grip was gentle; all her anger was in her shout.

    The little wolf easily wriggled free, ran to Qing Nü, and quickly wrote another sentence in the snow.

    —Even she’s afraid, so it was normal for me to be scared, right?

    Li Yu: “…”

    So it was just trying to prove that she wasn’t the only scaredy-cat in the North Sea!

    Li Yu took a deep breath.

    She had never imagined this little wolf cub could be so…devious!

    Her spiritual energy had just barely recovered, she kindly took it for a flight, and this was how it repaid her, revealing her embarrassing secret!

    Fortunately, the audience was small; she could handle this.

    Besides her and the little wolf, there were only Qing Nü and Weisheng Xuanzhu in the entire North Sea.

    She had already been mistaken for an illiterate; a little fear of heights wasn’t a big deal…

    Qing Nü chuckled, looking at Li Yu with amusement. “A god from the West Sea, afraid of the sea?”

    “Well…” Li Yu frowned and retorted, “Is the West Sea the same as the North Sea?”

    The little wolf tilted its head and wrote four characters in the snow.

    —Aren’t they the same?

    “Of course not!” Li Yu crouched down, poked the little wolf’s nose, and said seriously, “The sea outside is blue, and the sky is blue, not like the North Sea, a dark, terrifying abyss!”

    “Blue?” The little wolf wrote, disbelief in its eyes.

    During those early years after gaining awareness, she had lived in the human realm. Although she had never seen the sea, she had seen the sky.

    —The sky outside the North Sea is clearly dark red!

    The little wolf wrote this with conviction.

    “Dark red?” Li Yu frowned.

    Was the human realm four thousand years ago already enveloped in a sea of resentment, just like the City of the Undying?

    She thought for a moment. “That wasn’t the sky, that was…resentment.”

  • Qin Auntie, Save Me [Rebirth] 91

    Chapter 91

    Shen Yiqiu’s kiss was more passionate and intense than ever before, relentlessly pursuing Qin Qianrou, not giving her a chance to breathe. Her waist, gently held by Shen Yiqiu, didn’t feel strained even as she leaned back instinctively.

    Everything seemed to be progressing towards the moment they had both been anticipating, Shen Yiqiu’s hands already familiar with every curve, every contour, knowing where to go even with her eyes closed. She had encountered these obstacles before, but only now did she have the confidence to overcome them completely.

    The living room sofa, always carrying the lingering scent of their intertwined bodies, and Qin Qianrou sometimes wondered what kind of magic this seemingly ordinary piece of furniture possessed, to make her lose control every time they were here.

    Shen Yiqiu’s kisses, soft and lingering, trailed from her eyes to her chin, each touch leaving a burning imprint. Qin Qianrou’s hands, restless and seeking, instinctively wrapped around her, but this time, it wasn’t enough, she yearned for more.

    The initial unfamiliarity and awkwardness no longer made her hesitate. Whether it was Rong Fei’s guidance, or her own mental preparation, everything had led to this moment.

    She was willing, even eager, to truly be with Shen Yiqiu.

    Shen Yiqiu, lost in the intoxicating sensations, her breaths coming in short gasps, savoring the warmth and the fragrance.

    “Jiejie, you’re so soft.”

    Qin Qianrou’s wandering thoughts returned at Shen Yiqiu’s muffled praise. She had been staring blankly at the bright ceiling light, unconsciously moving in rhythm with Shen Yiqiu, but unlike before, there was no nervousness or restraint, she had long since prepared herself for this, and now, she felt only anticipation.

    Her willingness only fueled Shen Yiqiu’s passion, and it seemed this would continue indefinitely. The soft texture of Shen Yiqiu’s hair against her skin, Qin Qianrou loved twirling the strands around her fingers,

    the soft brush of her hair against her skin, ticklish, sending shivers down her spine, her fingers running through her hair repeatedly.

    The images that had once flickered in her mind now becoming reality under Shen Yiqiu’s touch, Qin Qianrou felt her strength draining away, her body softening, a languid warmth spreading through her, she no longer resisted.

    Those hands that had prepared countless delicious meals for her, those hands that had won her that cherished plushie, now, with a different kind of touch, played a melody on this unique and exquisite instrument.

    The unfamiliar sensations intensified, and Qin Qianrou, although feeling a mix of unfamiliarity and nervousness, her life experiences told her why, and she had already learned about these things, albeit through different means.

    But knowing was one thing, experiencing it firsthand was another, and even her rationality couldn’t suppress the yearning within her.

    Shen Yiqiu continued her exploration, and Qin Qianrou, a smile playing on her lips, glancing at the soft hair against her skin, couldn’t help but sigh inwardly,

    Is she trying to torture me?

    Qin Qianrou gently lifted Shen Yiqiu’s head, her voice soft and breathy, a hint of playful complaint in her tone, “Don’t do that.”

    Shen Yiqiu always obeyed Jiejie’s requests immediately, but this time, she was reluctant.

    Such beautiful scenery, how could she let it go so quickly?

    She wanted to savor it, to experience it fully, not just be a fleeting passerby.

    Shen Yiqiu persisted, her words gentle, yet her actions defying Qin Qianrou’s request.

    She was truly a little rascal.

    Qin Qianrou, her mind slightly dazed, still indulged her.

    The sofa, actually, was more suitable than the bed, its slightly rough texture, its narrower width, bringing them closer together, but Qin Qianrou still couldn’t fully relax, in her mind, the living room wasn’t a private space, it shouldn’t be used for such intimate moments.

    At least, not this time.

    Shen Yiqiu understood, seeing Jiejie trembling in her arms, she couldn’t bear to tease her any longer, and with a swift and effortless move, she lifted Qin Qianrou into her arms.

    The soft bed, the same one they usually slept in, yet different tonight. It was dinnertime, but neither of them cared about food.

    The feast before them was the one they truly craved.

    Shen Yiqiu knew she shouldn’t be distracted at a time like this, but her heart raced, her thoughts scattering, memories of her past and present life flashing before her eyes, a mix of emotions overwhelming her, she didn’t know whether to laugh or cry.

    She had secretly fantasized about this moment, but now that it was actually happening, it still felt surreal, the beauty before her almost unbelievable, her goddess, truly loving her like this.

    She suddenly remembered something, something quite important, she had prepared for this in advance, but in her earlier excitement, she had forgotten.

    “Jiejie, wait for me a moment.”

    With that, Shen Yiqiu pulled away slightly, as if about to leave.

    Qin Qianrou’s arm snaked around her neck, pulling her back. “Where are you going?”

    A sense of grievance, of unease, Qin Qianrou had never felt so vulnerable.

    Shen Yiqiu kissed her forehead reassuringly, her voice gentle and filled with affection, “I’m just getting something from my room.”

    Qin Qianrou paused, not speaking.

    Shen Yiqiu removed Qin Qianrou’s hand and was about to get up when she was pulled back again. Qin Qianrou, slightly raising her upper body, her cheek against Shen Yiqiu’s, opened the drawer of her nightstand with her other hand.

    As Shen Yiqiu looked on, puzzled, a small, neatly packaged box appeared.

    “I have some here, no need to go to your room.”

    Shen Yiqiu took the box from her and whispered, “Jiejie…”

    Qin Qianrou looked at her, her eyes filled with a silent affection, she wasn’t avoiding her, she wasn’t running away,

    she was willing, she had been willing, for a long time.

    Even the phrase “like a fish in water” couldn’t fully capture Shen Yiqiu’s current state of bliss.

    Her lover, willing to give her everything, all the best things in the world, it made Shen Yiqiu want to cry with happiness.

    Li Wan had chosen an expensive but reputable brand, high quality, far superior to the ordinary ones. Shen Yiqiu didn’t know the difference, but as the… user, she had to admit, it was incredibly effective.

    All her pent-up emotions unleashed, Shen Yiqiu poured out her love for Qin Qianrou, her intense affection illuminating Qin Qianrou’s world.

    Qin Qianrou couldn’t remember when she had lost consciousness, she only knew that child, Shen Yiqiu, had stopped listening to her.

    **

    The living room light was still on, but the bedroom was dark. As Qin Qianrou slowly regained consciousness, she wasn’t sure where she was.

    Only when a familiar, concerned voice reached her ear did she remember what had happened.

    Her ears instantly burned, and she didn’t even dare to look at Shen Yiqiu.

    The warmth under the covers, however, was different from when she usually woke up.

    “Jiejie, are you feeling unwell?”

    Shen Yiqiu hadn’t slept; after Qin Qianrou lost consciousness, she had carefully cleaned her with a warm towel, then showered herself, but Jiejie’s scent lingered on her skin,

    the scent of their love, their shared promise.

    Qin Qianrou had slept soundly, and Shen Yiqiu had simply watched her quietly, her heart filled with love and tenderness, and also a hint of regret.

    If it weren’t for Qin Qianrou’s exhaustion, she didn’t know how long she would have continued. She had always considered herself gentle and restrained, but with Qin Qianrou, she became a different person.

    She loved Jiejie, every part of her.

    Qin Qianrou bit her lip and said, trying to sound strong, “I’m fine.”

    She hadn’t felt anything while lying down, but as she tried to sit up, she realized her back wasn’t cooperating.

    Shen Yiqiu carefully supported her, her gaze lowered.

    She gently massaged Qin Qianrou’s back.

    “Jiejie, I’m sorry, I got carried away earlier.”

    Qin Qianrou was both amused and exasperated, now she was apologizing, who had been the one relentlessly pursuing her earlier?

    But her heart softened, she couldn’t entirely blame Shen Yiqiu, she had indulged her.

    She gently pinched Shen Yiqiu’s earlobe, “Then be a good girl from now on, and listen to me.”

    Shen Yiqiu immediately nodded. “I’m always obedient.”

    Qin Qianrou gave her a playful glare, Then who was the disobedient one earlier?

    Shen Yiqiu smiled sheepishly, and Qin Qianrou leaned in and kissed her softly.

    She cupped Shen Yiqiu’s face, her lips brushing against hers. “Silly girl, I was willing, you don’t have to apologize.”

    Shen Yiqiu’s face burned at the word “willing,” her body tingling with excitement, but she couldn’t get carried away again, she didn’t want to hurt Jiejie.

    Qin Qianrou leaned against the headboard. “What time is it?”

    “Almost 9 pm.”

    Qin Qianrou was stunned, she remembered arriving home a little before 5 pm, they had planned to have dinner together,

    four hours had passed just like that?

    She looked at Shen Yiqiu, her slender frame, her stamina seemingly much greater than she had imagined, she couldn’t indulge her like this anymore, otherwise, her back would break.

    In the future…

    Qin Qianrou quickly stopped her train of thought, how had she become like this, she wasn’t usually one to indulge in such things.

    “Jiejie, are you hungry? I’ll go prepare dinner.”

    Qin Qianrou didn’t want her to leave, but she was indeed a little hungry, so she took Shen Yiqiu’s hand, her fingers intertwined, reluctant to let go.

    Shen Yiqiu smiled and kissed her. “Jiejie fed me earlier, now it’s my turn to feed you.”

    Qin Qianrou, after a moment, understanding the implication of her words, playfully hit her shoulder.

    “When did you learn to talk like this?”

    “Only to you.”

    Qin Qianrou felt her heart racing again, this child.

    She quickly pushed Shen Yiqiu away and sent her to the kitchen.

    Only after the room was quiet again did Qin Qianrou finally relax.

    She didn’t regret reaching this point with Shen Yiqiu, there hadn’t even been any hesitation, it was simply a new stage in their relationship, and she still felt a mix of complex emotions.

    Hearing sounds coming from the kitchen, Qin Qianrou got out of bed to take a shower, the lingering stickiness on her skin uncomfortable, a strange sensation that made even walking feel slightly awkward.

    She turned on the light, the room suddenly bright, the earlier mess no longer visible, but the rumpled bedsheets were still a clear reminder, and Qin Qianrou’s ears burned as she changed them.

    Emerging from the bathroom, the scent of her shower gel lingering, she entered the dining room, where Shen Yiqiu had already set the table. She was wearing her usual apron and loungewear, her sleeves rolled up, her expression focused and serious.

    Qin Qianrou walked over and leaned against her, not speaking, yet feeling a sense of peace.

    “Weren’t you hungry?”

    “Mm, I’ll eat in a bit.”

    Shen Yiqiu, seeing her still leaning against her, chuckled and said, “Should I feed you then?”

    Qin Qianrou had indeed been exhausted today, and although the shower had refreshed her somewhat, she still felt a little weak.

    She said languidly, “No.”

    Shen Yiqiu found Jiejie’s behavior today particularly endearing, so many new expressions and reactions, it was captivating.

    “Then what do you want?”

    “I just want to lean against you for a bit.”

    Qin Qianrou’s words lacked their usual logic and precision, like a spoiled child, expressing her current desires without any reservations, without worrying about Shen Yiqiu’s reaction.

    Shen Yiqiu always made her feel completely relaxed and at ease.

    “But if you don’t eat, I’ll feel bad.” Shen Yiqiu held Qin Qianrou close, bringing the bowl of soup closer to her.

    Although she had said she didn’t want to be fed, with the soup right before her lips, Qin Qianrou, after a moment of hesitation, opened her mouth.

    Then, she leaned even more heavily against Shen Yiqiu, watching as she carefully blew on the soup, then gently spooned it into her mouth.

    After dinner, Shen Yiqiu naturally didn’t let Qin Qianrou clean up, she almost carried her back to bed.

    Qin Qianrou, looking at her helplessly, said, “I’m not sleepy yet, I don’t want to go to bed so early.”

    “Then what do you want to do?” Shen Yiqiu also felt helpless, Jiejie had clearly been exhausted to the point of collapsing earlier.

    “I’ll just sit in the living room for a bit.” Qin Qianrou’s gaze fell on the plushie Shen Yiqiu had worked so hard to win for her.

    The Doraemon, which she had been hugging earlier, was now lying on the floor, still smiling cheerfully, and Qin Qianrou didn’t need to ask to know who had pushed it aside, Shen Yiqiu had been busy preparing dinner after returning from her room, she hadn’t had time to tidy up the living room.

    The scene before her seemed even more… intimate, and Qin Qianrou’s heart skipped a beat.

    Shen Yiqiu picked up the Doraemon and placed it in her hands, “Then let Xiao Dingdang keep you company for now.”

    Qin Qianrou’s cheeks flushed slightly, but she deliberately didn’t let Shen Yiqiu see,

    even now, she still felt a little awkward, unsure what to say when their eyes met, during meals, it was fine, at least there was something to occupy them, but later, when they had nothing to do, that would be truly unsettling.

    When Shen Yiqiu emerged from the kitchen, she saw Jiejie in her pajamas, sitting on the sofa, hugging the plushie, seemingly lost in thought.

    She walked over, stood behind Qin Qianrou, and waited for a moment, but she didn’t turn around,

    Jiejie was rarely like this, and although Shen Yiqiu couldn’t understand the reason, she couldn’t bear to see her like this,

    she leaned down, wrapped her arms around Qin Qianrou, and gently kissed her cheek, her lips brushing against her hair,

    “Jiejie, I love you.”

    Only after saying this did Shen Yiqiu realize she had forgotten to say it earlier, her heart so full of love for Qin Qianrou that she had overlooked the formal expression, she chuckled inwardly, Where did all that practice go?

    The person in her arms trembled slightly, and a warm hand covered hers. Qin Qianrou didn’t speak, just rested her chin on Shen Yiqiu’s arm, their bodies touching.

  • The Heroine Fell Deeply For Her [Quick Transmigration] 92

    Chapter 92: I Love Slacking Off

    Tao Ning glanced at the lounge chair she had brought over yesterday for resting.

    Then, looking at the eager Mermaid, she said, “But the lounge chair is dry. Don’t you need to stay in the water?”

    Callista asked strangely, “Why do I need to stay in the water all the time?”

    Tao Ning looked at the large tail submerged in the water, covered in icy blue scales, powerful and graceful, possessing a magnificent beauty.

    She could imagine how dazzling this tail would look swimming in the ocean, a sight surely unforgettable.

    But now, both of them fell silent, looking at the tail, then at each other, with identical puzzled expressions.

    Tao Ning: “…”

    Callista: “…”

    They looked at each other, seemingly not understanding what the other was saying.

    Tao Ning suddenly slapped her forehead, realizing, “Oh, you’re amphibious. I was mistaken.”

    Seeing Lita swimming in the water every day, she had actually forgotten that the leader had also walked on land by herself. She couldn’t have carried a fish tank with her then.

    Mermaids indeed didn’t need to stay in the water constantly, though they preferred living in it. Staying out of the water for too long wasn’t good for them either.

    Callista: “?”

    Not understanding what Tao Ning was saying, Callista suddenly found herself being lifted horizontally, one arm under her armpits and the other supporting her tail.

    Her submerged tail emerged completely from the water, droplets rolling off her fins and splashing onto the floor.

    This lightness, different from being buoyed by the water, felt novel to Callista. She immediately forgot the previous topic, wrapping her arms around Tao Ning’s neck, her tail curling up slightly.

    This subtle movement indicated Callista’s good mood, which had just improved further.

    If a third person were present, they would surely be surprised. First, that the First Star System’s renowned flower vase could lift a Mermaid, whose long tail was no small weight.

    Second, that the overlord of the sea would be nestled in someone’s arms.

    And seemingly enjoying it.

    Placing Callista onto the lounge chair, Tao Ning checked it, confirming it could support the weight of the tail.

    Callista was indeed very satisfied, thinking that humans, although lacking in combat ability, were skilled at crafting things.

    She lay there for a while, then beckoned Tao Ning to join her.

    When being carried, Callista had already felt it. This human was warm and soft to the touch, with a faint pleasant scent. She liked the feeling.

    “Why are you just standing there? Come here.” Callista propped her head up with one hand, her waist-length hair spread out, some even reaching the floor.

    Tao Ning realized that the Callista of this world was a flirtatious Mermaid.

    She was the overlord of the sea, the queen of the ocean, so calling her a “sea king” wasn’t wrong either.

    Callista shifted slightly, patting the space beside her: “Since the pool needs to be changed, and you have nothing to do, come lie down.”

    [The Mermaid has sent you a cuddle request—]

    [Accept] or [Decline]

    “…” After standing by the chair for a moment, Tao Ning couldn’t resist the temptation and sat down.

    A hand adorned with a beautiful bracelet reached out, pressing on her shoulder, urging her to lie down. Tao Ning didn’t resist, her back against the soft lounge chair.

    A shadow fell over her. Tao Ning looked up, her gaze meeting ocean-like blue eyes, soft, cool platinum hair cascading down.

    The distance between them shortened, as if they were inches apart.

    The weight on Tao Ning wasn’t just the Mermaid’s tail; the cool, smooth feeling was like silk against her skin.

    The person leaning on her moved closer and closer, as if about to kiss her.

    Tao Ning suddenly raised her hand, gripping Callista’s arm through the gossamer shawl.

    She tightened her grip slightly, her breathing becoming rapid, her chin lifting slightly, as if about to do something.

    Just as they were about to touch, Callista’s crimson lips moved to the side, her nose nuzzling Tao Ning’s long, pale neck, her warm breath tickling her skin.

    Tao Ning, held down, could only let her do as she pleased.

    Callista lifted her head, her blue eyes looking at Tao Ning in confusion: “You always smell so good, what is that scent?”

    Sometimes, Tao Ning couldn’t tell if the Mermaid was doing this intentionally or not, making suggestive moves and then looking at her with innocent eyes.

    It made the person with impure thoughts feel guilty, wondering if they were overthinking things.

    Unable to move, Tao Ning could only maintain this position and ask, “Do you know about pheromones?”

    Callista hadn’t heard of this term. She shook her head: “No.”

    Tao Ning’s voice lowered, explaining gently, “We humans have conducted research and found evidence that if you like another person’s scent, it’s your genes making a choice, a subconscious mutual attraction, indicating you’re a perfect match.”

    “Just like in the Mermaid tribe, when a Mermaid reaches mating season, she will be attracted to another Mermaid, and if they choose each other, it means their pheromones are highly compatible.”

    Despite the flirtatious words, Callista’s expression changed slightly, and she sat up.

    Callista said, “Really?”

    Tao Ning, still held down, looked at her innocently.

    Callista stared into Tao Ning’s eyes for a long moment, keenly catching a fleeting smile. She felt she had caught her: “This is fake, isn’t it?”

    Tao Ning’s shoulders slumped, and she looked away, a barely perceptible smile curving her lips.

    The smile was subtle, but how could it escape a Mermaid’s sharp eyes?

    Curling her tail, kneeling on the lounge chair, she grabbed Tao Ning’s shoulders and shook her, trying to use this action to hide the heat rising in her face: “Tell me, is that right? It’s not true, right?”

    Tao Ning asked, “If I weren’t the most beautiful person on this ship, would you still be so clingy to me?”

    Callista hesitated for three seconds: “I think I would.” Because no one else could understand what she was saying.

    Tao Ning, however, said, “You hesitated.”

    Callista: “…”

    The warm human pillow instantly moved away, leaving Callista with a lonely back.

    For the first time, she found this human a bit petty.

    Callista couldn’t help but wonder if she had really been wrong, and if this human truly liked her.

    This thought was quickly dismissed.

    No, no human could endure the loneliness of the deep sea. That’s why she had grown up alone.

    After growing up, she had heard stories about her parents from the elders of her tribe, all of them shaking their heads and sighing.

    Callista had no feelings towards the human mother she had never met and the father who had removed his reverse scale and died, because she had grown up and become the leader of her tribe.

    This was something even her father couldn’t achieve, but she had. She was no longer the little Mermaid hiding in coral reefs, afraid of being attacked by sharks.

    After learning human language, she heard a lot about Tao Ning’s identity. They called her Zang Yuzhu.

    They said Zang Yuzhu was famous in the First Star System, had a loving family, and a guardian. The person who brought her ashore was her older brother, and perhaps through Zang Yuzhu, she could find her people.

    And her background, it sounded very similar to her own mother’s life.

    Callista thought about it and believed that Zang Yuzhu had many ties on land and wouldn’t be willing to stay in the ocean.

    Even if she was willing, it would only be a momentary impulse, like her young mother, blinded by appearances.

    Upon hearing that one of her people had come ashore, her first thought was to find them and bring them back to the ocean.

    As the leader, she had a responsibility to protect her people and couldn’t abandon her duty and leave the ocean.

    The self-proclaimed mature and rational Mermaid leader analyzed the situation, nodding in agreement with her own conclusion, then looked up.

    Tao Ning still had her back to her, slightly hunched, looking inexplicably pitiful.

    Callista’s heart softened. She casually picked up a peach from the table, tapped Tao Ning’s shoulder, and offered it to her.

    Here’s some fruit, hopefully you’re not angry anymore. Let’s talk, it’s too quiet, I’m not used to it.

    Tao Ning was deep in thought when she felt a tap on her shoulder, and then something appeared before her eyes.

    The long, slender hand holding the peach remained motionless, as if saying, I won’t leave until you take it.

    She stared at it for a moment, her heart relaxing.

    Mermaids didn’t have the concept of “why marry if you can flirt” or “love is forbearance.”

    They were still driven by instinct, seeking instant gratification, acting on whims.

    When happy, they would come closer, offering their most treasured possessions. When they felt something was wrong, they would push you away. Then, without understanding anything, seeing you unhappy, they would come back to coax you.

    Expecting Callista to think like a human was setting herself up for disappointment. Tao Ning never expected her to change in just a few days.

    Besides, when it came to feelings, giving didn’t always guarantee receiving. If it had to be reciprocal, it would become a transaction.

    In this vast world, meeting each other was the greatest fortune.

    Taking the peach, Tao Ning pulled out her butterfly knife and skillfully began cutting it.

    The peach was divided into several pieces, held in her pale palm, the fruity aroma filling the air.

    Callista’s mouth watered. She reached out and took a piece.

    Noticing Tao Ning’s gaze, Callista remembered that this was something she had given away and said a bit sheepishly, “I’ll just have one.”

    The Mermaid wasn’t aware of her habit of not keeping her word. She said she would only have one, but ended up eating half.

    One peach, cut into four pieces, shared equally between them.

    Then Callista looked at her with a look of wanting more. Tao Ning, meeting her gaze: “…”

    She hesitated between telling her the ancient story of sharing a peach as a symbol of homosexual love to scare this flirtatious Mermaid, and fulfilling her every request.

    After a moment of contemplation, Tao Ning chose the latter.

    She silently picked up another peach and, under Callista’s expectant gaze, cut it open. This time, all of it went into Callista’s belly.

    This afternoon, Callista seemed to have taken a liking to being on land, not mentioning returning to the water.

    Tao Ning didn’t bring it up either, sitting by the side and browsing information on the Starnet.

    Callista, watching curiously, touched the virtual screen, her hand passing through it, touching nothing.

    She also saw the dense patterns on the screen and moved closer, asking, “What are you doing? Why are you looking so intently?”

    Tao Ning replied in Mermaid language, “Research on psychic power.”

    Callista’s next question was interrupted by a sudden, violent tremor. The water in the pool sloshed, spilling over the edge.

    It wasn’t the tremor of a jump, but more like the ship being attacked.

    Tao Ning remembered the incident recorded in the original world line, where the returning ship was attacked, followed by a heroic rescue and the Mermaid’s repayment.

    But it wasn’t now; it happened later, after the Mermaid was transferred separately. After all, the ship was so large, and with Song Man in command, it was unlikely to be breached.

    Callista, unaware of what would happen later, listened attentively for a moment and said, “I hear many people outside, attacking this area.”

    She could even hear…

    “Someone wants to capture me for experiments.”

    Callista asked, puzzled, “What are experiments?”

    Tao Ning briefly explained the term, and Callista’s expression turned to disgust, muttering a Mermaid curse.

    Callista said, “Useless humans, their own psychic power isn’t strong enough, so they think there’s a way to improve it through us. How ridiculous.”

    Tao Ning asked, “Can you tell who’s attacking?”

    In this emergency, naturally, no one would announce which organization was attacking.

    Callista listened attentively again, then shook her head after a long while: “I can’t tell. There are too many sounds mixed together, it’s difficult to distinguish.”

    The tremors subsided three hours later. Judging by the time in the First Star System, it was already evening.

    During this time, Tao Ning hadn’t left, and no one had come, as everyone was busy defending the ship.

    Callista, tired from playing, went into the water to rest, leaving Tao Ning alone, reading lengthy articles on her smart device.

    It wasn’t until near dawn, after everything had been settled, that the swimming pool door opened.

    Song Man was at the front, followed by Gu Yuan, whose seniority was lower than hers, showing respect by walking a step behind.

    But in Tao Ning’s view, her understanding was that his rank wasn’t as solid as Song Man’s, and walking side-by-side would damage his image.

    Gu Yuan was skilled at maintaining appearances, appearing gentle and affectionate, always choosing the most advantageous course of action.

    Tao Ning feigned confusion, standing up and asking, “Major General Song, Cousin? It’s so late, why are you both here?”

    Song Man, having just commanded a successful defense against a space pirate attack, still carried a martial air. She said coldly, “I just received instructions from the Federation. To ensure the Mermaid reaches the First Star System as soon as possible, you will be leaving ahead of the main fleet.”

    Tao Ning thought: Here it comes.

    She couldn’t reveal her understanding in front of these people, so Tao Ning’s eyes widened in confusion: “Why leave early? Weren’t the attackers defeated this afternoon?”

    She asked too many questions. Song Man, having just finished a video conference, was in no mood to explain, looking towards her adjutant.

    Gu Yuan, however, explained first, “The previous supply station betrayed our location and leaked the information about the Mermaid on board.”

    “We predict there will be more attacks. Our main fleet is too large and slow-moving. The Federation has decided to have the Mermaid jump back to the First Star System first, while the main fleet will stay behind as a cover and jump later.”

    After speaking, Gu Yuan comforted her, “Don’t worry, we’ll arrive safely.”

    Song Man interrupted the endless explanation, her tone brisk: “That’s it. Get ready, we’ll be leaving soon.”