Category: A fellow cultivator fairy of mine

Chapter 30: Cradle Robber

“Do you know her, Sister?” Mingyan asked.

“Of course. The Xiu Hu An family is quite renowned. Although they haven’t produced any Great Emperors, they’ve had several Human Kings. In eras without a Great Emperor, a Human King is the strongest existence. The An family has a long history and has accumulated considerable wealth, considered the richest family in the Eastern Continent. However, this Fifth Miss An Ran isn’t particularly noteworthy within the family. Besides her beauty, she has nothing to offer. She’s been frail and sickly since childhood and is only at the early Yin Tomb Realm. Even her maidservant is at the early Yang Tomb Realm…” Huang Junyi nodded, falling silent for a moment.

“Then it’s unlikely to be her?” Mingyan stroked his chin, doubting An Ran was the culprit.

“Who knows…” Huang Junyi shrugged. “But it would be difficult for her to do anything to you. An Ran was born with a strange illness that makes her weak and anemic. Although she’s a Yin Tomb Realm cultivator, in a real fight, she probably couldn’t even defeat you.”

“That weak? She’s a whole major realm above me!” Mingyan was surprised.

“Normally, a Great Brook cultivator could handle her, but you’re different. You’re special, my little brother.” Huang Junyi giggled, tapping his forehead playfully. “So, it’s unlikely she attacked you… But we can’t completely rule her out. Although she probably wouldn’t attack you personally, her maidservant… No, wait, that doesn’t make sense either. Her maidservant wouldn’t use An Ran’s veil to attack you. Perhaps someone is trying to frame her.”

Little brother… Mingyan thought. You’re several hundred years old, is it really appropriate to call a sixteen-year-old boy “little brother”?…

“By the way, let me keep the veil.” Huang Junyi extended her hand, smiling.

Mingyan handed it to her. “Are you taking it as evidence?”

“To prevent you from desecrating it,” Huang Junyi teased.

“…I was confused when An Ran said that. I know what ‘desecrate’ means, but what can you possibly do with a veil?” Mingyan was baffled.

“…Are you truly that innocent, or are you pretending?” Huang Junyi looked at him, amused and slightly exasperated.

“I don’t understand,” Mingyan shook his head.

Huang Junyi chuckled, then returned the veil to him. “She was worried you would use the veil to… cough… Forget it. Since you’re so clueless, you can keep it. You wouldn’t know what to do with it anyway.”

Mingyan was frustrated by her cryptic words. He looked down at the veil, still puzzled.

“But why is this Miss An staying in the Huang family’s outer courtyard?” he asked, suddenly remembering. “Is she just staying here with her maidservant?”

“Yes. As I said, An Ran isn’t valued in her family. Although she has decent cultivation talent, she’s frail and sickly, so her cultivation is limited. She’ll likely end up in an arranged marriage, if anyone even wants her. Who would want a sickly wife or Dao companion?” Huang Junyi sighed. “She was sent to the Huang family supposedly to seek treatment, but she’s essentially been exiled. The only person she can trust here is her maidservant, Yu Zhu, who’s surprisingly loyal. She has good cultivation talent and seems to be the daughter of An Ran’s wet nurse. She’s been with An Ran since childhood. As for An Ran, she’s quite pitiful… If you ignore everything else, she’s just a poor girl, not someone who would attack others.”

Mingyan frowned slightly, feeling a pang of sympathy. “The world has been unfair to her. She seems like a gentle and kind woman… I hope I didn’t offend her…”

“Do you pity her?” Huang Junyi looked at him, her eyes sparkling with amusement. “I didn’t realize you were such a compassionate person.”

“She is quite pitiful.” Mingyan nodded, his heart going out to her. “Perhaps I can help her…”

“There are many people in this world more pitiful than her. Some starve to death, some freeze to death, some die young with unfulfilled ambitions, some have their entire families slaughtered and dedicate their lives to revenge, only to be killed by their enemies. Do you think An Ran is more pitiful than them? Will you help them all?” Huang Junyi’s smile didn’t waver, her gaze fixed on him.

“It’s not about comparing who’s more pitiful. I pity those I encounter and see suffering.” Mingyan wasn’t swayed. “I know I can’t help everyone. Even if I had such a grand ambition, my power is limited. Therefore, I’ll help those I can, within my means. And I’ll remember those I can’t help.”

Walk the righteous path. Ning Feixuan had told him this, and he had taken it to heart. What was the righteous path? To Mingyan, this was it.

Huang Junyi had intended to tell him that there was too much suffering in the world for him to help everyone, so sometimes, turning a blind eye was the best option. She hadn’t expected his answer and was stunned for a moment, then chuckled, her smile charming. “I’ve been lectured by a little brother… No wonder Feiyan wants to befriend you. I was being hasty. I’ll keep your words in mind.”

There was a hint of admiration in her voice. The path of cultivation often amplified one’s desires. Countless cultivators, empowered by their strength, indulged in their desires for wealth, beauty, and longevity. Few could truly be desireless.

But being desireless wasn’t necessarily a good thing.

To be desireless, one had to abandon all emotions, which would also extinguish their drive for improvement. Could such a cultivator progress? They would be forever stuck at their current level, perhaps even losing their way.

Mingyan’s desires must have also been amplified. His desire to catch up to Ning Feixuan was one of them, and helping others was likely another.

But such kindness could also bring him trouble… Huang Junyi stared at him. If… he could truly awaken Qingfei… A smile played on her lips. She couldn’t let anything happen to this little brother. She wanted to see how far he could go.

Mingyan scratched his head, feeling slightly embarrassed by her praise. Besides, he had only said he might be able to help An Ran… He wasn’t sure if he could.

“Sister, do you know anything about An Ran’s illness?” he asked.

“I wouldn’t say I don’t know anything, but I know very little. After the An family sent her here, we did try to find a cure. Because of Qingfei, we already had many physicians and poison masters staying in the outer courtyard, but none could diagnose her illness. Finally, a Daoist priest divined her fate and said she was born incomplete… He didn’t elaborate on what that meant.” Huang Junyi shook her head. “He only said she wasn’t sick or poisoned, but that she was missing something from birth. We don’t know what it is.”

Missing something… That was vague. Mingyan pondered but couldn’t make sense of it.

“Her condition isn’t something that can be easily resolved. If you want to help her, you can befriend her. She has few friends here. Although she’s polite, she seems reluctant to befriend the Huang family. Being born into such a family and treated differently, it’s not surprising she has some emotional baggage.” Huang Junyi smiled. “But be careful not to develop any romantic feelings for her. She… If nothing changes, she probably won’t live for much longer.”

Mingyan’s mouth opened slightly, then he closed it. “I understand why she’s reluctant to interact with the Huang family now.”

“Oh? Explain.”

“She’s strong and likely dislikes being pitied. You all know about her condition, so she must be wary of you.”

“Hehe, perhaps you’re right.” Huang Junyi chuckled and nodded. “Do you have any suggestions?”

“Let nature take its course.” Mingyan thought of the attacker. This incident would naturally bring him and An Ran closer. There was no need to force anything. Besides, he didn’t know her well enough yet and needed to see if she was truly someone worth befriending.

“Sometimes, you seem to know quite a lot.” Huang Junyi leaned closer, her beautiful eyes fixed on him, a playful smile on her lips. “Are you actually a several-hundred-year-old man in disguise?”

“…You’re quite the joker, Sister…” Mingyan wanted to roll his eyes but stopped himself. She was the one disguising her true age, claiming to be eighteen, yet accusing him of being old… Talk about the pot calling the kettle black.

“I don’t want to be a cradle robber.” Huang Junyi giggled. Mingyan’s eye twitched. Whatever makes you happy…

Chapter 29: Coveting My Lady’s Beauty

After leaving his room, Mingyan finally breathed a sigh of relief.

What a temptress… He was scared. He had his heart set on someone else, someone who was also Feiyan’s close friend. He couldn’t afford any entanglement with Huang Junyi.

Mingyan was honest with himself. Huang Junyi was undeniably attractive, but he had to stay true to his feelings. He couldn’t be swayed by desire.

As he walked, he remembered Huang Junyi’s words about following him discreetly… She was likely nearby, observing him. Although he didn’t know her cultivation level, it must be quite high.

Moreover, this was the Huang family estate. Even a place like Rain Terrace Blessed Land had a protective formation. A powerful family like the Huang family would have even stronger formations. With the help of formations, even someone several levels stronger than Huang Junyi might not be able to detect her.

Mingyan didn’t expect to find anything. Huang Junyi had returned the veil after their conversation.

Whoever attacked him, having left such crucial evidence, wouldn’t dare show themselves and would likely be avoiding him… As he was thinking this, a small bead rolled to his feet. He looked around and saw a woman in a light blue gauze dress approaching, her face veiled, her hair in a bun. Although the dress was loose, concealing her figure, it couldn’t hide her graceful proportions. She held a fan painted with a bluebird, her features delicate and refined.

A young maidservant walked beside her, glaring angrily at Mingyan. “It’s him! Mistress!”

“Are you sure?” The woman’s voice was soft and hesitant, her beautiful eyes studying Mingyan. “This young master doesn’t look like a thief…”

“Mistress! Appearances can be deceiving! The Seeking Bead rolled right to his feet. He must have stolen your… your…” The maidservant, seeing her mistress’s hesitation, tried to convince her.

Mingyan frowned. “What are you talking about? What has this young lady lost?”

“Young Master, there must be some misunderstanding…” The woman’s voice was soft and weak, evoking sympathy. Her beautiful face, partially hidden by the veil, made her seem even more delicate.

Mingyan stared, not at her beauty, but at her veil, which was identical to the Ice Silk Gauze he had found. Looking closer, he realized not only the veil but also her dress seemed to be made of the same material… He raised an eyebrow, looked down at the pale blue bead at his feet, and stepped aside. The bead rolled after him. He took a step forward, and the bead rolled forward. He stepped back, and the bead rolled back.

“See! See! Mistress, it’s him!” The maidservant pointed at Mingyan, her voice urgent. “He stole your veil! He’s a pervert, stealing my lady’s personal belongings!”

“This… Young Master…?” The woman looked at him hesitantly, fanning herself. “That doesn’t make sense, Yu Zhu. This young master is only at the Great Brook Realm. He couldn’t have snuck into our room and stolen my veil without us noticing.”

Stolen veil? Mingyan’s brow twitched. This was getting complicated.

He immediately became suspicious of the two women. He couldn’t sense their cultivation levels, which meant they were either much stronger than him or ordinary people with no cultivation at all. However, the fact that the woman knew he was at the Great Brook Realm meant she couldn’t be an ordinary person. She was a cultivator, stronger than him…

This meant the person who attacked him was likely one of them, most likely the owner of the veil, this delicate young lady… But would the culprit actively search for evidence they left at the crime scene? Something felt wrong.

Could it be that someone else stole the veil and then planted it to frame him?

“Is the missing veil this one?” Mingyan took out the veil he had kept and showed it to them.

“You shameless thief! Mistress, we must inform the Huang family! We can’t tolerate such a pervert staying in the outer courtyard as a guest!” The maidservant, seeing the Ice Silk Gauze veil, was convinced of his guilt. She pointed at Mingyan, her chest heaving with anger.

Fortunately, they were alone, otherwise, this could ruin Mingyan’s reputation and even implicate the young lady. Mingyan frowned. “I didn’t steal this. Someone tried to attack me, and I found this while searching for clues. Instead of accusing me of stealing your mistress’s veil, I suspect you two are plotting against me!”

“You’re accusing us?!” The maidservant, despite her sweet appearance, was furious, her face red with anger.

The young lady looked confused. She pondered for a moment, then said, “You don’t seem like an evil person, Young Master… There must be some misunderstanding… Can you explain what happened?”

Mingyan knew Huang Junyi was likely hiding nearby, observing them, so he wasn’t worried about them trying anything. Besides, this situation was strange. The young lady’s veil and dress were both made of Ice Silk Gauze. If she was the culprit, actively searching for the veil and exposing herself like this was too risky. And the maidservant’s anger seemed genuine…

Mingyan explained what had happened. Before the young lady could respond, the maidservant exclaimed, “You liar! You must have stolen my lady’s veil because you’re obsessed with her! You pervert!”

Mingyan remained calm. There was no one else around, only Huang Junyi, hidden in the shadows. “You can ask Eldest Miss Huang Feiyan about this. I informed her immediately after the incident. If you don’t believe me, I can ask her to testify.”

Huang Feiyan had kept the poisoned needle for analysis and returned the veil to him.

Due to Huang Qingfei’s poisoning, the Huang family had studied countless toxins over the years and possessed extensive knowledge on the subject.

“You’re close to Eldest Miss Huang?” The young lady looked surprised, her eyes widening, then she lowered her head. “In that case, it’s even less likely you’re the culprit. Eldest Miss Huang is a noble person and wouldn’t befriend someone with questionable morals.”

“Mistress…!” The maidservant looked anxious, but the young lady gave her a gentle look. “Yu Zhu, don’t be unreasonable. We need to investigate further before jumping to conclusions. Until the truth is revealed, anyone could be the thief, and anyone could be innocent. We can’t make assumptions.”

“…Yes, Mistress.” Yu Zhu nodded reluctantly, glaring at Mingyan.

The young lady curtsied slightly. “I apologize for the misunderstanding, Young Master. My surname is An, and my given name is Ran. I’m the fifth daughter of the Xiu Hu An family. You can address me as you please.”

She was quite polite, her soft voice soothing. Mingyan nodded. “My surname is Ming, and my given name is Yan.”

An Ran smiled gently. She looked at the veil in Mingyan’s hand, hesitated, then said, “I believe this Ice Silk Gauze is the only evidence we have to find both the person who stole my veil and the person who attacked you. Since you’re close to Eldest Miss Huang, please keep the veil for now. I trust you won’t… desecrate it…”

An Ran blushed slightly, looking away.

Yu Zhu looked anxious. “Mistress! How can you do that? You’re an unmarried woman! How can you entrust such a personal item to a man?”

Mingyan sighed inwardly. It was just a veil, not undergarments. And what did she mean by “desecrate”? He was baffled. He understood the meaning of the word, but what could one possibly do with a veil?

“Enough!” An Ran’s voice was slightly firmer, but still soft. It was hard to imagine such a gentle woman poisoning someone. Seeing her mistress’s slight annoyance, Yu Zhu pouted and glared at Mingyan.

“I’ll report this to the Huang family and cooperate with the investigation. Young Master… please keep the veil safe. Ice Silk Gauze is rare and possesses many mystical properties. Please don’t lose it.” An Ran’s voice was gentle and soothing. Mingyan nodded. “Don’t worry, Miss An. I’ll keep it safe… Also, although I don’t understand what you mean by ‘desecrate,’ I assure you I won’t do anything of that sort. I’m keeping it as evidence.”

“…Then I’m relieved.” An Ran blushed, nodding slightly. Speaking so much seemed to have tired her out. Yu Zhu quickly supported her, her face filled with concern. “Mistress, are you alright?”

“I’m fine, just a little tired. Let’s go back.” An Ran’s weak voice tugged at Mingyan’s heartstrings. He frowned slightly. She seemed to be in poor health…?

After An Ran and Yu Zhu left, Mingyan pondered for a moment, then returned to his room.

As soon as he entered, Huang Junyi appeared behind him, her voice thoughtful. “Hmm, I didn’t expect that Ice Silk Gauze to belong to An Ran.”

Chapter 28: Too Far

Fortunately, Huang Junyi didn’t say anything further. She sat on the bed, looking towards the door, seemingly lost in thought.

Mingyan relaxed and discreetly observed her, wondering about her cultivation level…

“Enjoying the view?” Huang Junyi suddenly turned, her voice playful and seductive, her tone natural and effortless, yet it made his heart race.

Mingyan didn’t know how to respond. Not answering would be rude, but commenting on an elder’s appearance seemed inappropriate.

“Sister asked you a question. Do you think Sister is beautiful?” Huang Junyi wasn’t letting him off the hook. She even leaned closer. “Answer me…”

“Very beautiful…” Mingyan stammered, at a loss for words.

“Pfft… Little brother, haven’t you been around women before? You’re so innocent.” Huang Junyi giggled, finding his reaction amusing.

You know the answer, so stop teasing me, Mingyan thought, sighing inwardly. He didn’t know how to deal with this succubus.

He remembered reading a novel called “Journey to the West” at the village chief’s house. Sun Wukong dealt with demons using his staff. Mingyan had no such weapon to subdue this demoness.

Huang Junyi chuckled, then tilted her head. “Since we have nothing better to do, why don’t we chat? Tell me about your past.”

“I… don’t have much of a past.” Mingyan was relieved she had stopped teasing him.

“Everyone has a past. I heard from Feiyan that you haven’t been cultivating for long?” Huang Junyi’s smile remained. “So, tell me, why did you embark on this path?”

“…I haven’t been cultivating for long, indeed.” Mingyan nodded, then hesitated. “Actually… Sister, you should know about Feiyan’s relationship with the Yaochi Holy Maiden, Ning Feixuan, right?”

“Yes. I was the one who sent Feixuan to Yaochi. Her parents entrusted her to us when she was young. She and Feiyan are very close.”

Mingyan was surprised. He hadn’t known that. But this was good. He could learn more about Ning Feixuan.

“I… I grew up in Sun Moon Village. I was naturally strong, much stronger than other children, so I became a hunter at twelve.” Mingyan began his story. “Our village was deep in the mountains, very secluded. We rarely had visitors, until one day, a cultivator stumbled upon our village…”

“We were all ordinary people. Seeing a cultivator, we thought he was a celestial being. The village chief welcomed him warmly and even asked me to hunt a Red Fragrance Boar, a rare and delicious wild boar usually only hunted during festivals.”

“But when I returned with the boar, I found… everyone in the village dead, slaughtered by that ‘celestial,’ including the village chief, who had raised me and treated me like his own son… His methods were brutal. The village was covered in blood…” Mingyan’s expression darkened. “I was no match for him. I raised my bow, intending to shoot out his eyes, but my arrows couldn’t harm him. It was a futile struggle. He told me to run, but I knew he wasn’t letting me go. He just wanted to torment me, to enjoy my desperate struggle before I died. I knew I couldn’t escape, so I just kept shooting at him.”

Huang Junyi remained silent, listening intently, her beautiful eyes fixed on him.

“That ‘celestial,’ seeing I wouldn’t run, lost interest and was about to kill me… I told him I believed in reincarnation and that I would find him again someday and repay him tenfold for the atrocities he committed. He laughed and said he would be waiting. I thought I was going to die, but then the Yaochi Holy Maiden, Ning Feixuan, appeared and saved me.” Mingyan remembered that day clearly. The cultivator had severed his tendons, leaving him to bleed to death. He had then noticed the faint fragrance of Mingyan’s blood and become intrigued, just as the Yaochi Holy Maiden appeared on the horizon…

“She descended like a goddess. That cultivator was as powerless before her as I was before him. He was subdued instantly. But I lost too much blood and passed out.”

“She was probably there to gather information about Dragon Ridge for Feiyan,” Huang Junyi said. “Feiyan told me about it when she returned. It’s… fate, isn’t it? If Feiyan hadn’t asked Ning Feixuan to go to Dragon Ridge, she wouldn’t have saved you. And if she hadn’t saved you, Feiyan might have died that day… Hehe… Is it coincidence, or destiny?”

Mingyan was surprised. “So, Ning Feixuan was there because of Feiyan?”

“You can ask Feiyan yourself.” Huang Junyi nodded, smiling. “The seed planted that day has now borne fruit, leading to you saving Feiyan and potentially saving Qingfei… Fate is truly wondrous.”

Mingyan nodded earnestly. “It seems Feiyan and I are indeed fated.”

He paused, then continued, “When I woke up, Ning Feixuan was still there, and the cultivator was lying on the ground, unconscious. She was standing some distance away. She told me she had interrogated him and learned the truth. She then told me to take revenge myself, so that the hatred wouldn’t consume me… I killed him, just as I promised, repaying him tenfold.”

Huang Junyi smiled faintly, her eyes flickering. “It’s not surprising she would let you take revenge yourself.”

“She not only saved me but also allowed me to avenge myself…” Mingyan lowered his head. “Afterwards, she told me that cultivator was an evil cultivator who absorbed blood and resentment to increase his strength. She warned me against following the same path, now that I had taken my revenge… I asked her how I could repay her, and she told me to walk the righteous path…”

“Then, I asked her if I could cultivate like her. She examined my constitution and told me about Rain Terrace Blessed Land, instructing me to go there…”

“She saved me, helped me avenge myself, and guided me onto the path of cultivation… My purpose then, and now, is simple: to repay her kindness, to do everything I can for her.”

“I see.” Huang Junyi nodded. “Having a strong purpose in cultivation is a good thing. It keeps you focused. But remember, don’t let it become an obsession, or it will hinder your progress.”

“…What do you mean?” Mingyan asked, puzzled.

“If you find you can’t achieve your goal or fulfill your wish, don’t obsess over it, or it will destroy you.” Huang Junyi chuckled. “Sometimes, you have to learn to let go.”

“I will achieve it… I believe in myself.” Mingyan shook his head, not believing it would become an obsession.

Huang Junyi smiled, seeing his determination, and didn’t say anything more.

“By the way, Sister, when are you planning to extract my blood? I feel I’m in peak condition now.” Mingyan changed the subject. He truly felt incredibly healthy… His Yang energy was even a bit excessive, which he suspected was contributing to his restlessness and slightly weakened self-control, making him prone to distracting thoughts.

“Soon, probably within the next few days,” Huang Junyi smiled, her eyes sparkling. “You seem more eager than we are.”

Mingyan pursed his lips. He couldn’t tell her he felt his Yang energy was too strong and he needed to… release some of it.

“You’re so cute, little brother…” Huang Junyi smiled, resting her chin on her hand, her gaze suggestive.

“Please, Sister, you flatter me…” Mingyan sighed. His current physical state was definitely affecting his self-control. Even cultivators couldn’t completely suppress their instincts.

“You don’t like being complimented?” Huang Junyi giggled. “Other men would be begging me to compliment them, to touch them. You don’t know how lucky you are.”

She traced his cheek lightly with her finger and leaned closer, her breath warm against his face, making his heart race. He quickly shifted away. “Sister… don’t do that.”

“Don’t do what?” Huang Junyi moved closer, smiling playfully. She had initially intended to just tease him verbally, but his innocent reaction was too tempting.

“Don’t come any closer…” Mingyan couldn’t handle it. You’re a descendant of the Phoenix, not a roasted chicken… Well, in a way, a phoenix was also a kind of bird… No, no, what was he thinking? Comparing a phoenix to a roasted chicken was disrespectful!

“What will happen if I do?” Huang Junyi whispered in his ear, her lips almost brushing against his earlobe.

“I won’t be able to control myself…” Mingyan admitted honestly.

“Oh? How will you lose control?” Huang Junyi asked playfully. Before she could tease him further, Mingyan suddenly flipped her over and pinned her beneath him. She didn’t resist. If she had, he might have been injured. The difference in their cultivation levels was too vast. She was simply surprised. She hadn’t expected this innocent little brother to actually make a move.

After a moment of stunned silence, she smiled at him, unfazed. “Is that all?”

Mingyan’s breathing grew heavy. He could feel the curves of her body beneath him. He bit his tongue to regain his composure and quickly got up. “I apologize… I was out of line.”

He then hurriedly left the room and fled.

Huang Junyi watched him go, stunned, then burst into laughter. This Mingyan was truly interesting. But then her own face flushed, and she quickly patted her cheeks. What was wrong with her? A half-step Human Gateway cultivator nearly went too far with a Great Brook Realm boy…

Chapter 27: A Sneaky Attack

Several more days passed.

The spirit herbs and fruits were quite tasty.

Medicinal herbs imbued with spiritual energy generally had a sweet taste, and the spirit fruits were even more delicious. Mingyan enjoyed them.

These herbs and fruits were rich in spiritual energy and nutrients, helping to expel impurities from his body.

Unless one practiced alchemy and body refinement from a young age, most cultivators couldn’t completely purge their impurities until the Illuminating Sea Realm. Mingyan hadn’t had access to such practices as a child, so his body contained many impurities. After his last breakthrough, a layer of black grime had seeped out of his skin. After consuming spirit herbs and fruits for a while, he had expelled even more impurities, feeling lighter and his energy flow smoother…

Although he would be losing a lot of blood, the benefits he had received from the Huang family were substantial. They weren’t letting him contribute for free.

Mingyan felt his body was in peak condition, strong and vigorous. He was ready for the blood extraction…

He couldn’t consume any more tonics. Excessive nourishment would be detrimental. He left his room and went out into the courtyard.

The outer courtyard was bustling with activity. Many people had been invited because of Huang Qingfei’s poisoning. The pill formula itself had been provided by one of these guests. The Huang family had asked them to stay until Huang Qingfei recovered, hoping they might find a solution.

This was a desperate measure. They had exhausted all other options but didn’t want to give up hope. Besides, the Huang family was wealthy and could easily afford to host these guests.

Every time Mingyan went out, he saw groups of cultivators chatting, gathering information and rumors.

For example, he learned that the continent was divided into five regions: the four continents—East, South, West, and North—and the Central Abyss, which they surrounded. There were nine forbidden zones where spiritual energy didn’t exist and was even devoured. Each continent had two, and the Central Abyss itself was a forbidden zone.

Mingyan sighed. The world was vast. A mortal couldn’t even travel one-tenth of a single continent in their lifetime, yet there were four continents. The world was simply too large for mortals to explore fully.

Many people must have embarked on the path of cultivation to see the world’s wonders.

Feiyan had told him that cultivation was just a means to an end, a way to fulfill one’s desires. Cultivators didn’t lose their emotions because of cultivation. If they did, they had strayed onto a deviant path, not recognized by the Heavenly Dao.

For him, cultivation was also a means to an end, a way to become stronger, to catch up to Ning Feixuan. But should cultivation be about indulging one’s desires without restraint?

Mingyan pondered. Uncontrolled indulgence wasn’t right. Humans had emotions, but they shouldn’t be controlled by them, nor should they sever them…

This would likely influence his entire cultivation journey…

He hadn’t seen Zhao Feiliu since their encounter. Feeling energetic, Mingyan hoped someone would come looking for trouble. He strolled around the outer courtyard, but no one caused any problems. Starting a fight himself wasn’t his style, so he returned to his room, slightly disappointed.

He closed the door, sat on the bed, and closed his eyes to meditate.

Suddenly, a cold glint flashed. Mingyan’s hair stood on end as he instinctively threw himself back. The glint, a needle, flew past his neck, narrowly missing him. He quickly sat up and cautiously scanned his surroundings, noticing the window was slightly ajar…

He rushed outside and looked around but saw no one. However, he found a veil on the ground.

He picked it up. It felt cool to the touch, made of unusual material. He brought it to his nose and smelled a faint fragrance. It belonged to a woman… but he couldn’t be certain. There were many cultivators who disguised themselves as the opposite gender…

Mingyan looked around again, but finding nothing, he returned to his room, closed the window, and examined the room carefully.

Finally, he found a thin needle embedded in the wall, its tip still carrying a faint, unusual scent…

The rooms in the outer courtyard were protected by formations. No one could enter without permission or unless they were a member of the Huang family. How did that person open the window? Mingyan’s eyes narrowed. Either an outsider had broken the formation, or… it was someone from the Huang family…?

The latter seemed like a conspiracy theory. He thought for a moment, then contacted Huang Feiyan.

She arrived shortly after and examined the needle Mingyan handed her.

Huang Feiyan frowned. “The needle is poisoned, but it’s not fatal. It only causes temporary unconsciousness… Did you find any other clues?”

Mingyan gave her the veil. “I found this outside the window.”

Huang Feiyan looked surprised. “This is Ice Silk Gauze? Using this material for a veil… This person must be someone important. Have you offended anyone recently?”

Mingyan shook his head. Although he had hoped for some trouble today to test his strength, no one had bothered him. While this was normal, he was slightly disappointed. He wished another Zhao Feiliu would appear and attack him so he could retaliate without consequence…

“That’s right, you’re too honest and wouldn’t cause trouble.” Huang Feiyan smiled, holding the veil thoughtfully. “But this person probably didn’t intend to kill you. This poison suggests they wanted you unconscious, likely to obtain something from you…”

Mingyan frowned. “Has something been exposed?”

“I don’t know… It seems leaving you alone here is dangerous.” Huang Feiyan pondered. “It must have been when I came to visit you that someone noticed… I’ll inform my mother. You won’t be in danger.”

Mingyan nodded. Huang Feiyan returned the veil to him. “Keep this evidence for now. I suspect the person is one of the guests in the outer courtyard. If you have any suspicions, tell me.”

Huang Feiyan then used the sound transmission formation to contact Huang Junru. Shortly after, Huang Junyi arrived, her figure as alluring as ever. Mingyan groaned inwardly.

“I heard little brother encountered some danger?” Huang Junyi entered, smiling playfully at him, her voice seductive. Huang Feiyan seemed accustomed to this. Her second aunt always spoke this way to her younger relatives. But something felt off. She hadn’t acted this way towards others before, especially not towards men… But… Mingyan was special. He could save her younger sister, so her fondness for him was understandable, right?

Huang Feiyan shook off her thoughts. “Second Aunt, why are you here?”

“To protect little brother, of course.” Huang Junyi winked. “What? You don’t trust me to protect your… male friend?”

Huang Feiyan was embarrassed. “Of course I trust you to protect Mingyan, Second Aunt… But… he’s my friend. Calling him ‘little brother’ is a bit…”

“What’s wrong with that? I’m eighteen, and he’s sixteen. Is there a problem with calling him ‘little brother’?” Huang Junyi’s smile didn’t waver, but there was a hint of warning in her voice. Huang Feiyan coughed. “Right, right… Second Aunt, you… do as you please…”

This was bad. Feiyan couldn’t do anything about her second aunt… Mingyan raised an eyebrow. He didn’t believe Huang Junyi was eighteen… She must be several hundred years old, at least, but he wouldn’t dare say that.

“Alright, alright, go about your business. I’ll watch over your little… your male friend. You can rest assured.” Huang Junyi waved her hand dismissively.

Huang Feiyan blinked, then looked at Mingyan. “Then… if anything happens, just tell Second Aunt… Alright, I’ll be going now.”

Mingyan wanted to tell her not to leave. He didn’t want to be alone with this succubus, but he couldn’t bring himself to say it. He could only watch as Huang Feiyan left…

Huang Junyi closed the door and sat beside him, smiling. “Alright, little brother, you can focus on your own things. With me here, you won’t be harmed~”

Mingyan nodded and closed his eyes, intending to cultivate, but Huang Junyi’s faint fragrance, captivating and intoxicating, made it impossible for him to focus. Why hadn’t he felt this way when he was alone with Feiyan? Was it because her second aunt was too alluring? Or was his self-control weakening?

Realizing he couldn’t focus, he opened his eyes, gave up on cultivation for now, and took out the veil, handing it to Huang Junyi. “Second Aunt… uh, Sister, this is the veil I found. Do you know who it belongs to?”

“Ice Silk Gauze?” Huang Junyi accepted the veil, her fingers brushing against his, making him flinch instinctively. She noticed this and smiled suggestively. She examined the veil, pondering for a moment. “This material is special. It can’t belong to an ordinary person… But there are too many guests at the Huang family, many of them important figures. It’s difficult to narrow it down… But the aura on it clearly belongs to a female cultivator, someone of high status… Spend more time in the outer courtyard these next few days. I’ll observe from the shadows and see if I can find anything unusual.”

Mingyan nodded, and silence fell between them.

He noticed Huang Junyi staring at him, making him nervous. He quickly looked away, but the atmosphere became suggestive again…

Chapter 26: Fattening for the Slaughter

This Sun and Moon Scripture was truly mysterious…

Mingyan pondered. He had wanted to try the secret technique, but he decided against it for now. The Huang family would need his blood soon. If he suffered severe backlash and was injured, the blood extraction would be delayed.

He needed to nourish his body these next few days. He would be losing a lot of blood soon… The more he thought about it, the stranger it felt. Unable to focus on cultivation, he left his room and went out into the courtyard.

The peach tree was still laden with spirit peaches. Grown in this energy-rich environment, the peaches were imbued with spiritual energy. If a mortal ate one, it would likely extend their lifespan.

This tree was brought back from Yaochi by Feiyan’s aunt. He had forgotten to ask Feiyan about suitable wood for a bow stave…

For cultivators, the bow was the important part; arrows were expendable. With enough spiritual energy, one could even create arrows from pure energy. Naturally, Mingyan also wanted a bow as his weapon.

He wondered about the Immortal Peach Tree… No… That was a treasure of the Yaochi Sacred Land. If he used its wood for his bow, Ning Feixuan would be heartbroken. She was the Yaochi Holy Maiden and might even become the next Queen Mother of the West…

“Young Master Ming, why not pick one and try it? They’re quite delicious.” A female voice spoke behind him. Mingyan turned and saw Huang Junyi, whom he had met in the carriage. He quickly bowed. “Elder Huang…”

“Hmm? Elder? I don’t like that title. Call me Sister.” Huang Junyi smiled playfully, approaching him and looking him over. “Come on, call me Sister. Let me hear it.”

“This… I’m friends with Feiyan, and you’re her elder…” Mingyan hesitated. He couldn’t address her as “Sister.” It would be disrespectful.

“Feiyan is Feiyan, and you are you. Call me Sister. Come on.” Huang Junyi’s smile didn’t waver, but she didn’t press closer. However, her gaze remained suggestive, making Mingyan uncomfortable.

If he called her “Sister,” it would be disrespectful. If he didn’t, it would be rude to Huang Junyi, Feiyan’s second aunt, who was related to her by blood, unlike her other aunts.

She was Huang Junru’s younger sister and Huang Qingfei’s older sister.

“Not giving me face?” Huang Junyi’s smile widened, her eyes sparkling, her fragrance intoxicating. Although Mingyan wasn’t completely inexperienced with women, he couldn’t handle Huang Junyi’s forwardness. He stepped back, muttering softly, “Sister…”

“That’s more like it. I’m eighteen, only two years older than you.” Huang Junyi smiled charmingly. “Little brother, I must thank you properly. If it weren’t for you, my younger sister wouldn’t know when she’d wake up…”

Mentioning Huang Qingfei, her playful demeanor faded slightly. “I hope… she can truly wake up…”

Mingyan had been about to comment on her claiming to be eighteen, but seeing her concern for Huang Qingfei, he remained silent. No one could be absolutely certain. He hoped his blood would be effective and awaken Huang Qingfei, but he couldn’t make any promises. What if she didn’t wake up?

Huang Junyi tapped his forehead playfully. “Feiyan asked me to bring you some things. Take good care of yourself these next few days. Our entire family’s hopes rest on you.”

He had thought Huang Junyi was beautiful when he first met her, but now, she seemed even more stunning, comparable to Feiyan. Her touch made his heart race. He thought of Ning Feixuan to calm himself and nodded. “I’ll do my best.”

Huang Junyi’s gaze intensified, making him blush again. He didn’t know what to say.

Seeing his embarrassment, Huang Junyi smiled brightly, her own face flushing slightly. “You’re quite handsome, little brother. It’s the first time I’ve seen Feiyan so concerned about a man… I think you two would make a good match. Do you have feelings for Feiyan?”

Mingyan felt flustered. Feiyan’s second aunt was like a succubus… Why was the Family Head so cold and aloof, while her sister was so passionate and alluring? He couldn’t handle it. Hearing her question, he thought of Ning Feixuan to steady his heart and shook his head firmly. “Feiyan and I are just friends. I have no other intentions. Second Aunt… cough, Sister, you don’t need to worry.”

“Worry? Why would I worry? I think you two are a good match.” Huang Junyi smiled. “But if you don’t have any feelings for her, then forget it.”

She stepped back, her gaze no longer suggestive, and handed him a small, exquisite pouch. “These are tonics and spirit fruits to nourish your body and expel impurities. If anything happens, tell Feiyan immediately.”

Her sudden shift to a serious demeanor made Mingyan both uncomfortable and relieved. So, she had been acting flirtatious because she thought he had feelings for Feiyan. After confirming he didn’t, she became formal… This seemed even more problematic…

He accepted the pouch. It felt incredibly light. Were there really things inside? He was curious but remembered Huang Junru’s carriage. It must involve some kind of spatial manipulation. He didn’t ask.

Huang Junyi smiled and left.

Quite decisive… Mingyan watched her go, frowning slightly. He had felt something was off, and now he realized what it was.

It wasn’t just her shift in demeanor. That was a problem, but not the biggest one.

It was… Huang Feiyan had said the women of the Huang family didn’t marry outsiders, so why did Huang Junyi seem to support him and Feiyan being together? This reminded him of the rumors Feiyan had mentioned… Because of those rumors, she had suitors. This meant the rumors likely concerned the Huang family’s marriage customs.

The Huang family didn’t marry outsiders or allow men to marry in because they had the Phoenix Blood Pool. By drinking the Phoenix blood, they could conceive without needing partners.

Therefore, the rumors must be about the Phoenix blood, perhaps claiming it was no longer effective, which was why suitors had appeared.

Feiyan had called them rumors, but Huang Junyi’s attitude was strange… Could it be true?

This must be a serious matter, something Feiyan couldn’t easily reveal. Mingyan decided not to ask. He had no solutions anyway.

He returned to his room and opened the pouch. It probably had a fancy name, but Huang Junyi hadn’t told him. As expected, it was spatially expanded. He peered inside and saw a surprisingly large space… But he could store these spirit fruits in his Qi Sea. This pouch must be for those who hadn’t reached the Illuminating Sea Realm. The Huang family probably didn’t know he could access his Qi Sea at the Great Brook Realm. Feiyan must have kept it a secret…

Mingyan smiled. This friendship was proving to be quite valuable.

Now, it was time for the fattening-up process, preparing for the blood extraction…

Chapter 25: Arrangements

The top priority was to increase his strength. Strength was the foundation of everything.

After Huang Feiyan left, Mingyan focused on his Qi Sea.

During his cultivation last night, he had discovered that a moon appeared in his Qi Sea at night, creating a cycle of day and night, just like the outside world. This puzzled him.

He didn’t understand what it meant. He couldn’t sense any significant changes, except for the warmth of the sun…

Perhaps his cultivation level wasn’t high enough to comprehend its mysteries?

As he focused his consciousness on his Qi Sea, his body automatically began absorbing spiritual energy. The abundant energy of the Huang family estate felt incredibly refreshing. Within his Qi Sea, he studied the combat techniques described in the Sun and Moon Scripture.

He had learned a simple technique in Rain Terrace Blessed Land: condensing spiritual energy into water droplets and firing them as projectiles. It was quite powerful but consumed a lot of energy, quickly depleting his reserves.

The Sun and Moon Scripture contained several combat techniques. The first was a fist technique called “Two Instruments Fist,” using the sun seal with the left hand and the moon seal with the right, left for offense and right for defense, a harmonious interplay of sun and moon, Yin and Yang… However, it required the power of the sun and moon, or the Yin and Yang energy generated after establishing the Yin Tomb and Yang Tomb realms… It was useless to him currently.

The other techniques were similar, except for one that required only spiritual energy and seemed to have specific physique requirements. Strangely, the name of the required physique, a three-character term, had two characters erased, leaving only a blank space. Why?

Below the blank space was a note: if one didn’t possess the required physique, then an exceptionally strong constitution was necessary to avoid severe backlash from using the technique.

Mingyan was incredibly curious about the missing characters.

According to the scripture, this technique could temporarily amplify a cultivator’s strength several times over… This meant the user would be far stronger than other cultivators at the same level… The temptation was immense…

Mingyan hesitated. He wouldn’t test it rashly.

Without this technique, the other techniques required the Yin Tomb and Yang Tomb realms. For now, he hadn’t encountered any trouble… He wasn’t sure if Zhao Feiyun counted as trouble… Since Huang Feiyan told him not to worry, she would likely handle it.

He would focus on cultivation. Increasing his strength was the priority…

Several days passed.

The Yaochi Holy Maiden didn’t stay long at the Huang family estate. She left the next day with the other Yaochi disciples. During this time, Huang Feiyan hadn’t visited him. Mingyan, focused on cultivation, hadn’t paid much attention to the outside world.

Thanks to the abundant spiritual energy, he had stabilized his newly opened springs.

Normally, after a breakthrough, both the springs and spirit channels needed consolidation, but due to his special constitution and natural spirit channels, he only needed to consolidate his springs.

One day here was equivalent to five days in Rain Terrace Blessed Land… Mingyan sighed. No wonder the elders of Rain Terrace Blessed Land could barely compare to the younger generation of Sacred Lands and prominent families… They not only possessed greater talent but also had access to better cultivation environments and resources. At the same level, the elders of Blessed Lands were likely no match for the holy children and young masters of Sacred Lands and prominent families…

Greater strength brought better resources, which in turn cultivated stronger disciples… They weren’t even starting on the same level. How could there be fair competition? No wonder Xia Yanming wanted to send him to a Sacred Land…

Wherever he ended up, he couldn’t reveal his blood’s properties, but he had to showcase his cultivation talent to receive better treatment.

“Mingyan, are you there?” Huang Feiyan’s voice called from outside.

“Come in, Feiyan, I’m here.” Mingyan opened his eyes, got out of bed, and saw Huang Feiyan enter.

Her face was beaming. “Mingyan, our recent tests were successful… We haven’t found any risks. If everything goes smoothly, my mother will start conditioning my aunt’s body and then refine the medicine she needs.”

Mingyan smiled. “That’s good.”

“Also, I’ve arranged for your future placement.” Huang Feiyan smiled playfully, her hands clasped behind her back. “Guess where?”

Mingyan thought for a moment. “Wind Spirit Moon Shadow Sacred Land?”

“…You guessed it on the first try?” Huang Feiyan was surprised, then chuckled. “What do you think of the Wind Spirit Moon Shadow Sacred Land?”

“I don’t know much about it, but I believe I can find my path there.” Mingyan knew little about the various Sacred Lands. Huang Feiyan had mentioned a safe place… The Huang family and Yaochi were allies, but Yaochi didn’t accept male disciples. That left the Wind Spirit Moon Shadow Sacred Land. When Huang Feiyan was in danger, she had contacted them first, and Holy Master Yue Ying and Yue Qingying had arrived promptly.

Their relationship might not be as close as the one between the Huang family and Yaochi, but Huang Feiyan had said Yue Qingying was her friend. Yue Qingying had even advised him to kill Yun Ling, removing an obstacle in Huang Feiyan’s path…

Mingyan didn’t know if the Huang family had other close allies, so the Wind Spirit Moon Shadow Sacred Land was his only guess.

“Yes, the Wind Spirit Moon Shadow Sacred Land is quite unique. It’s divided into two branches: the Wind Spirit Branch and the Moon Shadow Branch. It was founded by Great Empress Yue Ying and her husband, passing down two cultivation systems: the Wind Spirit Scripture for men and the Moon Shadow Scripture for women. Great Empress Yue Ying was a reigning Great Empress, and her husband was also a top genius of that era. Unfortunately, only one Great Emperor can exist at a time… Otherwise, we might have seen a dual-emperor situation.”

“However, even so, the Wind Spirit Holy Master of that time was at the Human King Realm, second only to the Great Emperor. With Great Empress Yue Ying’s assistance, their legacy is no less than an Emperor-level inheritance. The Wind Spirit and Moon Shadow Scriptures complement each other. Traditionally, the Sacred Land had two Holy Masters, one for each branch, but the current Wind Spirit Branch has no Human Gateway Realm cultivator, so Holy Master Yue Ying manages both branches. With your talent, you’ll surely be accepted as a disciple by one of the elders. After that, how far you go depends on you.”

Huang Feiyan smiled. “And with Qingying there, I won’t have to worry about your safety. Holy Master Yue Ying is also a righteous person. You can cultivate there without worry.”

My talent… Mingyan still wasn’t sure how exceptional his talent truly was… Although he had unique qualities, like natural spirit channels, was that truly special?

He hadn’t fought any cultivators at his level and lacked a clear understanding of his combat prowess. Perhaps he needed a real fight to assess his strength.

“Thank you for arranging this,” Mingyan said, pushing those thoughts aside.

Huang Feiyan shook her head. “I’ve already spoken to my mother and Holy Master Yue Ying. After my aunt’s situation is resolved, I’ll have my mother personally escort you back to Rain Terrace Blessed Land. You probably have some matters to discuss with them. After that, you’ll have to travel to the Wind Spirit Moon Shadow Sacred Land on your own.”

Mingyan nodded. “Do you need my blood now?”

Huang Feiyan nodded. “This time, we’ll need quite a bit… The toxin has accumulated in my aunt’s body for years, deeply embedded in her flesh and bones. The required dosage is very large… I’m sorry to ask so much of you.”

“It’s fine,” Mingyan shook his head. “If it’s too much at once, we can do it in batches.”

“…I’ll personally bring you some spirit herbs and fruits. Don’t forget to eat them. Otherwise, I’m worried I’ll drain you dry…” Huang Feiyan’s expression was slightly complex. Every blood extraction evoked a mix of gratitude and guilt. Although blood could be replenished, it was essential for the body. Excessive blood loss could have serious consequences, even if it could be regenerated.

Drain him dry? That was… a lot… Mingyan maintained a calm facade, but he felt slightly apprehensive.

“By the way, Feiyan, the scroll you gave me has some parts erased. Do you know the original text?” Mingyan retrieved the scroll from his Qi Sea, intending to show her, but he found it was worn and tattered again. Puzzled, he opened it and saw the contents had changed!

The information about the power of the sun and moon was gone, as was the description of the secret technique. The combat techniques no longer mentioned the sun and moon. Even the Two Instruments Fist now described using the power of the Yin Tomb and Yang Tomb… What was going on?

“Is there a problem?” Huang Feiyan, seeing his frown, looked at the scroll but found nothing unusual. “What’s erased? I don’t see anything.”

“Um… I must have been mistaken.” Mingyan examined it closely. The information about the sun and moon was indeed gone. The images of the sun and moon on the scroll had reverted to the characters “sun” and “moon”…

After Huang Feiyan left, Mingyan returned to his Qi Sea and found the scroll restored… Strange… He retrieved the scroll and opened it, finding the information about the sun and moon had reappeared. He was confused. Could it be that the true contents were only visible within the Qi Sea? Or perhaps… only he could see them?

Chapter 24: Marrying Her

“If the Holy Maiden invites me, I will certainly attend.” Qin Dongli smiled, sheathing his spear, then glared at the crowd. “Whoever dared gossip about the Holy Maiden, step forward now. Don’t make me find you, or you’ll regret it!”

“There’s no need to be so serious, Young Master Qin. There’s no need to pay attention to idle gossip.” Ning Feixuan’s gentle voice echoed faintly from the mist. Mingyan noticed many people liked to conceal themselves… Holy Master Yue Ying, Huang Junru, and now Ning Feixuan, all seemed to prefer keeping their appearances hidden from public view…

Judging by Ning Feixuan’s beauty, Huang Feiyan’s mother, Huang Junru, must also be beautiful… Thinking about someone’s elder in that way seemed disrespectful… Mingyan shook his head.

With the Yaochi Holy Maiden present, a fight between Qin Dongli and Mu Chong was unlikely. The crowd, having lost their entertainment, began to disperse. Mingyan followed them.

Before leaving, he glanced back at Ning Feixuan.

Although her figure was hidden in the mist, her image during their reunion was etched in his memory, even clearer now than when she saved him…

He would reach her level someday and repay her kindness…

Yaochi women could marry outsiders… Mingyan looked at Ning Feixuan, remembering her slightly helpless smile when Huang Feiyan pulled her forward… He made a decision. If possible… after repaying his debt, could he… marry her?

He felt slightly audacious. She was such a celestial being… But perhaps he could try?

He had another goal now. It wasn’t enough to catch up to Ning Feixuan; perhaps… he needed to surpass her.

Mingyan turned and left.

Back in his room, he found Huang Feiyan waiting for him. “Feiyan? What are you doing here?”

“You’re back? Where did you go? I couldn’t find you.” Huang Feiyan turned around, her hands clasped behind her back, a posture that accentuated her figure. Mingyan subtly averted his gaze. “I heard there was a fight in the plaza, so I went to watch.”

“Oh, hehe, Feixuan’s suitors probably,” Huang Feiyan chuckled. “She has many admirers. Unlike me, I’ve made it clear I won’t marry. The Yaochi Sacred Land doesn’t forbid marriage, but married disciples are considered to have left the sect. Yaochi disciples rarely marry outsiders, but there have been exceptions, even among Holy Maidens. Feixuan has a lot on her plate.”

“Do cultivators also get jealous?” Mingyan recalled the change in the two young men’s attitudes after Ning Feixuan arrived. They clearly admired her. Before he started cultivating, he had thought celestials were above such emotions. After all, they seemingly had everything.

“What do you think cultivation is? It’s just a means to an end.” Huang Feiyan smiled. “Cultivation might change one’s mindset, but it doesn’t eliminate emotions. Even Great Emperors only have a lifespan of twenty thousand years. How can cultivators be emotionless in such a limited time?”

“That’s true.” Mingyan nodded. “I was being naive.”

“If cultivation required severing emotions, it would be a deviant path, not recognized by heaven and earth, and would eventually lead to ruin.” Huang Feiyan smiled gently. “One can control their emotions, but never sever them. Remember that.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.” Mingyan nodded.

“You’re always so polite. By the way, I have good news… We extracted the toxin from my aunt’s body and tested it on a bird. We then refined some medicine using your blood and gave it to the bird, and it recovered…” Huang Feiyan clapped her hands excitedly. “This means the method is effective, at least on birds. After more tests to confirm there are no side effects, we can start refining the medicine for my aunt… It shouldn’t take too long!”

“I’m glad it worked.” Mingyan smiled. “I was worried my blood wouldn’t be helpful.”

“I’m truly happy… but I’m also worried… Your constitution mustn’t be revealed. This is quite troubling.” The joy on Huang Feiyan’s face faded. “If my mother recommends you to the Sacred Lands, they won’t refuse you and will even treat you well, considering her status. But I’m worried someone might be driven by greed… And once you join a Sacred Land, we can’t interfere in their internal affairs. Recommending you might actually harm you.”

Huang Feiyan still hadn’t found any information on the Human King Physique, but Mingyan’s blood, with its potent Yang energy and life force, was a perfect alchemy ingredient… She worried that the Sacred Lands might not value his cultivation talent. After all, geniuses were common, but natural medicinal ingredients were not…

He could be turned into a blood farm if they weren’t careful… That couldn’t happen!

Mingyan was silent. He knew possessing a treasure without the power to protect it was a curse. Not everyone was as righteous as the Huang family, willing to make a fair exchange with someone who had no bargaining power.

“Perhaps… there’s only one suitable place.” Huang Feiyan pondered for a moment. “Sending you there shouldn’t cause unnecessary trouble. I’ll discuss it with my mother and let you know. Don’t worry, I’ll fulfill my promise and ensure your safety.”

“Tha… um…”

“Were you about to say thank you?” Huang Feiyan looked at him with a teasing smile.

“I stopped myself just in time,” Mingyan said seriously.

“Good. There’s no need for thanks between friends.” Huang Feiyan nodded, satisfied. “About Feixuan… Do you only feel gratitude towards her?”

Mingyan didn’t know why she was asking, but he decided not to hide it from her. “I want to catch up to her, repay her kindness, and marry her.”

Before today, he hadn’t considered marrying Ning Feixuan, but now, the desire was strong. “Of course, it depends on her feelings. Regardless, I’ll repay her kindness.”

Huang Feiyan sighed. “You really have feelings for her… I don’t want to discourage you, but Feixuan is devoted to the Dao… Perhaps you’ll understand after you get to know her better. I can’t say too much. You’re both my friends, and I won’t take sides. So… you understand I can’t help you pursue her, right?”

Mingyan nodded. He hadn’t expected her help anyway. It would put her in a difficult position, and he wouldn’t do that to her.

“Good….” Huang Feiyan blinked and muttered softly, “Why is Feixuan so charming? I don’t understand.”

Mingyan opened his mouth, about to say she was just as charming, but he stopped himself. It sounded too frivolous. Besides, his feelings for Ning Feixuan weren’t exactly romantic. It was more of admiration and gratitude… But it didn’t matter. He would catch up to her someday and get to know her better.

Chapter 23: Jealousy and Strife

Mingyan nodded, distracted.

“What’s wrong? You found the person you were looking for, aren’t you happy?” Huang Feiyan, seeing his absentmindedness, asked with a smile.

“Of course I am. I’m happy I finally know who she is.” Mingyan collected himself, then pursed his lips. “But… Feiyan, she’s also at the Qi Sea Realm, like you?”

“Strictly speaking, she’s stronger than me. She’s at the peak of the Qi Sea Realm,” Huang Feiyan corrected him. “Don’t let her appearance fool you. She’s incredibly dedicated to cultivation. I’m not as diligent as her.”

“…Is she the Yaochi Holy Maiden?”

“Yes. She became the Holy Maiden five years ago. Her cultivation talent is astonishing.” Huang Feiyan nodded again, then tilted her head, a playful smile on her lips. “Why do you ask? Are you interested in her for reasons other than gratitude?”

“I just feel there’s a huge gap between us. I can’t offer her anything of value as repayment for her kindness.” Mingyan sighed. “Perhaps meeting her so soon wasn’t a good thing…”

“What? Is it different from how you imagined your reunion?” Huang Feiyan gestured for him to walk with her, her steps light and graceful. “She’s always been like this, indifferent to anything unrelated to cultivation.”

“It is different… But more importantly, I can’t do anything for her now, can’t repay her kindness.” Mingyan shook his head as they walked side by side. Although Ning Feixuan had told him not to worry about it, saying that seeing him healthy and well was repayment enough… Mingyan was earnest. How could that be considered repayment? A life-saving grace couldn’t be dismissed so easily.

But the vast difference in their strength left him with no opportunity to repay her.

Huang Feiyan knew how much this bothered him. He would likely carry this debt in his heart forever. She smiled gently. “Then cultivate diligently. You’ll catch up to her someday, and then you’ll be able to help her.”

Mingyan nodded. He had embarked on the path of cultivation to repay Ning Feixuan.

“By the way, Feiyan, you asked me earlier about which Sacred Land I’d like to join… What about the Yaochi Sacred Land?”

“That’s not possible. Yaochi Sacred Land doesn’t accept male disciples.” Huang Feiyan shook her head. “Although Yaochi women can marry outsiders, they never accept male disciples. So… no.”

“I see…” Mingyan nodded.

“Alright, I’m going back to accompany Feixuan. Don’t forget to contact me if you need anything.” Huang Feiyan smiled and, after bidding him farewell, entered the inner courtyard.

Mingyan returned to his room in silence.

His goal was clear now… He had to catch up to Ning Feixuan so he could help her. His eyes hardened with resolve, and he closed them, immersing himself in cultivation.

The night passed uneventfully.

Although day and night were essentially the same for cultivators, most preferred to be active during the day. Mingyan opened his eyes and heard a commotion outside. He hesitated, then opened the door and stepped out.

His room was in a secluded corner of the outer courtyard, meant to minimize disturbances. But today was different. He saw many people heading towards the small plaza in the center of the courtyard. Intrigued, he closed his door and followed them.

Along the way, he asked someone, “Brother, is there something interesting happening?”

“Hmm? You don’t know? I heard the Yaochi Holy Maiden arrived at the Huang family yesterday. Today, many people have come to catch a glimpse of her beauty. A few suitors are even fighting over her. We’re going to watch the fun.”

“I see.” Mingyan’s eyes flickered. He remembered Huang Feiyan saying that Yaochi women could marry. Ning Feixuan was beautiful and elegant, with a graceful figure. It was natural for her to have many admirers.

“Those young masters are all quite powerful. The weakest is at the peak of the Yang Tomb Realm, and there’s even one at the early Qi Sea Realm. Their fight for the beauty’s attention should be spectacular. Besides, I also want to see this legendary Yaochi Holy Maiden, renowned as the most beautiful woman in the Eastern Continent. I wonder if she also has two eyes and a mouth… Eh? Brother, you’re quite handsome…”

Mingyan felt increasingly uncomfortable. This person seemed to admire the young masters fighting over Ning Feixuan, but his comments about the Holy Maiden were slightly dismissive. And now he was complimenting Mingyan’s appearance… He was a man… Mingyan subtly distanced himself. He had heard of cultivators with unusual preferences. It was best to be cautious. Even men needed to protect themselves, especially if they were handsome. They could be taken by older female cultivators as companions or by male cultivators with peculiar tastes…

“Hey! Brother, don’t go!”

Mingyan shuddered and quickly disappeared into the crowd.

Fortunately, the crowd was large, and he easily lost the strangely enthusiastic man. He reached the plaza in the center of the outer courtyard.

The plaza was vast, seemingly designed for large gatherings and duels. Many people had gathered around its perimeter. Mingyan found a relatively empty spot and watched the two men facing each other in the center.

Both men wore expensive clothes, clearly not ordinary people. One was dressed in blue, with a hair crown, his handsome face expressionless. The other wore white, his appearance refined and elegant, his expression arrogant. They were exchanging words.

“Still stuck at the peak of the Yang Tomb Realm? If I were you, I would have killed myself already.” The young man in white sneered. “I don’t know what kind of trash the Mu family produces.”

“Killing you would be as easy as slaughtering a chicken. Less talk, more action.” The young man in blue gestured dismissively.

Whispers arose from the crowd. “The one in blue is Mu Chong, the Seventh Young Master of the Mu family. I heard he’s the pillar of their current generation.”

“And the one in white?”

“Qin Dongli, the Third Young Master of the Qin family. He’s already at the early Qi Sea Realm. But the most famous young member of the Qin family isn’t him, but his elder brother, Qin Dongting, who’s apparently at the peak of the Qi Sea Realm and considered one of the most outstanding young cultivators in the Eastern Continent.”

Mingyan frowned. It seemed these young masters and holy children were all around the Qi Sea Realm… He still had a long way to go.

“Mu Chong probably isn’t just fighting over a woman. I heard that years ago, Qin Dongting crippled the eldest young master of the Mu family. Although the Qin family apologized, the two families have been enemies ever since…”

“Slaughtering a chicken? A trash family dares boast such things?” The young man in white smiled cruelly. “Do you know how your brother, Mu Bing, begged for mercy before my brother?”

“I only care about how you will beg for mercy before me.” Mu Chong remained calm, but Qin Dongli, enraged, clenched his fists, runes flashing across his body and transforming into bolts of lightning. He dashed forward and appeared before Mu Chong in the blink of an eye, his speed so fast that many didn’t even see him move. Just as everyone thought Mu Chong would be sent flying, Qin Dongli’s fist passed right through him. He had missed.

Qin Dongli was stunned, then felt a powerful force strike his waist. He was sent flying backwards, nearly out of the plaza, but a faint barrier shimmered at the edge, stopping him. He regained his balance, levitated, and looked at Mu Chong, his expression serious. “It seems I underestimated you.”

“Beg for mercy now, and I might spare you.” Mu Chong’s voice was cold and indifferent, but his words were provocative. Qin Dongli’s brow twitched, and he gritted his teeth. “I’ll crush you into the ground and see how you beg, just like your brother!”

A light flashed from Qin Dongli’s Qi Sea, and a spear shot out, flying towards Mu Chong, aiming to pin him to the ground.

The spear passed through Mu Chong’s body, but he remained unharmed, as if he were a shadow, visible but intangible.

“What kind of technique is that?!” someone in the crowd exclaimed. Mu Chong had evaded Qin Dongli’s attacks twice now in this strange, unpredictable manner.

“Could Mu Chong have set up a formation here?”

“Don’t be absurd! This is the Huang family’s territory. How could he tamper with it? It must be some kind of special technique!”

Qin Dongli, uncertain, recalled his spear and landed on the ground, holding it defensively. “You have quite a few tricks up your sleeve.”

“Beg for mercy now, and you might still have a chance.” Mu Chong remained impassive.

“Hmph! Even if you can dodge my attacks with your little tricks, you can’t do it forever! You’ll run out of spiritual energy eventually. You’re only at the peak of the Yang Tomb Realm and can’t generate your own energy. You’re nothing but a dead dog in my eyes!” Qin Dongli’s temper flared, veins bulging on his forehead.

“Fellow Daoists, let’s end this here. There’s no need for a fight to the death.” A gentle, melodious voice interrupted them.

Someone exclaimed, “The Yaochi Holy Maiden!”

Mingyan looked towards the voice and saw a group of Yaochi celestial maidens approaching, like a vision from a celestial palace. However, he didn’t see Ning Feixuan. One figure, however, was shrouded in mist, her voice like a celestial melody, but her form unseen… It must be Ning Feixuan, choosing not to reveal herself publicly.

“Why is she hidden in mist? They say the Yaochi Holy Maiden is renowned throughout the Eastern Continent for her beauty. Why won’t she show her face? Are the rumors false?” someone whispered. Qin Dongli, overhearing this, glared at the crowd. “Whoever dares gossip about the Holy Maiden, step forward and slap yourself, and I’ll spare your life!”

He was quite protective of Ning Feixuan… Mingyan observed Qin Dongli, memorizing his appearance.

“Since the Holy Maiden has spoken, I’ll comply.” Mu Chong’s expression softened, and he bowed respectfully. “Holy Maiden, would you be willing to visit the Mu family?”

Qin Dongli sneered. “To visit your crippled elder brother?”

Mu Chong glared at him, then turned back to the Yaochi Holy Maiden, ignoring him.

“Thank you for the invitation, Young Master Mu, but I’m here to invite the Huang family to the Peach Banquet at Yaochi. After that, I’ll return to the Sacred Land. I have many duties to attend to and don’t have time to visit the Mu family. The Mu and Qin families will also receive invitations. I hope you’ll both attend.” The Yaochi Holy Maiden’s voice, though unseen, was incredibly pleasant. He had been too nervous and excited during their reunion to notice, but now, listening to her voice was a true pleasure. Mingyan smiled. She was beautiful, kindhearted, and had a lovely voice. Having such a benefactor was truly a blessing.

Chapter 22: The Yaochi Holy Maiden

Mingyan looked up at the blinding sun in his Qi Sea, instinctively raising a hand to shield his eyes…

If he hadn’t seen the character “sun” ascend and transform into a miniature sun, he would have thought he was in the outside world…

What was going on?

He lowered his hand, sensing his surroundings, but found nothing unusual… The previously cool Qi Sea was now warm… because of the miniature sun…

Mingyan looked down at the Sun and Moon Scripture and slowly unfurled it.

The scroll was filled with tiny characters, different from the common script of the current era, but he could understand them… It seemed advanced scriptures automatically translated themselves for easier comprehension.

The first chapter discussed spiritual energy and the forces of Yin and Yang. Spiritual energy originated from nature and could be harnessed by cultivators, but natural energy was limited. Yin and Yang originated from the celestial bodies “sun” and “moon,” with the sun representing Yang and the moon representing Yin.

By harmonizing spiritual energy with the forces of Yin and Yang, one could make it endlessly regenerative… Mingyan frowned. Wasn’t this the principle behind the Yin Tomb and Yang Tomb realms of the Transcendence Realm? Upon completing these realms, a cultivator could continuously generate their own spiritual energy, similar to harmonizing energy with Yin and Yang.

He continued reading and found the scripture also mentioned the Yin Tomb and Yang Tomb realms.

It explained that since not all cultivators could harness the power of the sun and moon directly, an alternative method was devised: constructing the Yin Tomb and Yang Tomb within the Qi Sea to harmonize the internal energy, achieving a similar regenerative effect. However, this method was inferior to directly utilizing the power of the sun and moon.

The power of the sun and moon… Mingyan frowned, looking up at the sun in his Qi Sea, lost in thought.

If the Yin Tomb and Yang Tomb were substitutes, how could he utilize the power of the sun and moon directly?

The sun rose every day and set at night, giving way to the moon, which also rose and set, creating an endless cycle… Did sunlight itself provide power? Mingyan felt the warmth of the sun in his Qi Sea, but nothing else…

The Sun and Moon Scripture didn’t explain how to utilize the power of the sun and moon, only how to construct the Yin Tomb and Yang Tomb using spiritual energy.

He continued reading, finding explanations of the Qi Sea and Divine Gate Realms and various combat techniques, but nothing about harnessing the power of the sun and moon.

Mingyan closed the scroll and tossed it into the air. It floated there, emitting a faint golden glow. He noticed it no longer looked worn; half of it seemed to have been restored, its surface now smooth and polished.

He sat cross-legged in his Qi Sea, lost in thought. Now that he had a sun in his Qi Sea, would it set at night and be replaced by the moon? If so, his Qi Sea would contain both sun and moon, unlike anyone else’s…

Could he harness their power? He looked at the sun and slowly extended his hand, trying to summon it.

The sun remained motionless. Mingyan quickly gave up, shaking his head and standing up. He was only at the Great Brook Realm, yet he was already thinking about the Yin Tomb and Yang Tomb realms. He was getting ahead of himself.

Staring at the sun was tiring. He looked away, recalling a legend from the mortal world.

It was said that there were once ten suns in the sky, causing a severe drought. A hero named Hou Yi then shot down nine of them with his bow and arrows, leaving only one, ending the drought.

Mingyan remembered his days as a hunter. He raised his arm as if holding a bow, his other hand mimicking an arrow. He drew the imaginary bowstring, aimed at the sun in his Qi Sea…

“Piu!” He released his hand, but the sun remained. He chuckled. He had no bow, no arrows…

Then it struck him. Why not choose a bow as his weapon?

Killing an enemy from a thousand miles away with a single arrow… That sounded appealing. The thought, initially random, grew more appealing the more he considered it. A bow was a good weapon, and he liked bows. Hou Yi had shot down nine suns with his bow. He didn’t have any extra suns to shoot down, but shooting down enemies sounded just as good.

Mingyan left his Qi Sea and returned to reality, thinking about what he needed to create a life-bound bow.

He needed a strong, flexible wood for the bow stave and a durable string… He thought for a moment. Perhaps he should ask Huang Feiyan for advice on suitable materials. She would know more than him…

He looked at the sound transmission formation in the corner of the room, shaped like a horn. He hesitated. He wouldn’t bother Feiyan just yet. She had only left recently and likely had other things to do. She couldn’t spend all her time with him.

Mingyan left his room and explored the outer courtyard.

The outer courtyard was vast and housed many people. His presence didn’t attract much attention. Not many people had seen Huang Feiyan bring him back. His cultivation level wasn’t remarkable, and besides his handsome appearance, there was nothing noteworthy about him.

The people in the outer courtyard gathered in small groups. Mingyan noticed there were not only cultivators but also ordinary people with no cultivation at all.

Many were discussing “Celestial Qingfei,” likely Huang Feiyan’s comatose aunt… These people were probably guests invited by the Huang family to try and cure her…

Perhaps those ordinary people were skilled physicians?

“I heard the Yaochi Sacred Land is holding its five-hundred-year Peach Banquet. They’ve apparently invited almost every prominent family and Sacred Land in the Eastern Continent.”

“Given the relationship between Yaochi and the Huang family, they’ll surely invite the Huang family, right?”

“Of course. I heard Family Head Huang and the Queen Mother of the West were close friends in their youth. The Yaochi Sacred Land even offered peaches from the Immortal Peach Tree to try and cure Celestial Qingfei… But unfortunately, it didn’t work…”

The Immortal Peach Tree? Mingyan’s interest was piqued. He wondered if its wood would be suitable for a bow stave… But the Immortal Peach Tree must be incredibly valuable to the Yaochi Sacred Land. He wouldn’t be able to obtain any…

“Does anyone know when the Peach Banquet will be held?” someone asked.

“In a year, I think. But the Yaochi Sacred Land has already started sending out invitations. Besides the Sacred Lands and prominent families, some renowned rogue cultivators have also been invited.”

“Your information is outdated. I heard the Yaochi Holy Maiden has already departed for the central region to personally deliver an invitation to the Huang family. She should be arriving soon.”

“The Yaochi Holy Maiden herself? I heard she’s quite close to Eldest Miss Huang.”

“The Yaochi Sacred Land and the Huang family have been allies for tens of thousands of years. Sending the Holy Maiden to deliver the invitation shows their friendship remains strong.”

Mingyan, having heard nothing useful, left.

He wandered around and unknowingly reached the back gate of the outer courtyard, which led to the inner courtyard. He was about to turn back when Huang Feiyan emerged, followed by a group of female cultivators in palace attire. They were all beautiful, of similar age, each with a pale red lotus mark on their forehead. A group of celestial beings. Mingyan glanced at them and was about to step aside when he saw a familiar face. His eyes widened, and he froze.

Among the group was a tall, elegant woman with a gentle smile. The lotus mark on her forehead was more vibrant and beautiful than the others. Her features were as stunning as Huang Feiyan’s, her beauty and aura captivating.

But that wasn’t why Mingyan was staring…

“Mingyan? What are you doing here?” Huang Feiyan, seeing him standing near the gate, looked surprised, then noticed his gaze fixed on someone behind her. She turned, but the crowd was too dense to see anything unusual. She walked over to him and waved her hand gently. “Mingyan.”

He snapped out of his trance, looked at her, then back at the woman behind her, and after a moment of silence, smiled faintly. “Feiyan.”

“Let me introduce you. Feixuan, this is my new friend, Mingyan. Mingyan, this is one of my closest friends, Ning Feixuan.” Huang Feiyan pulled the woman forward, smiling.

Ning Feixuan smiled politely and looked at Mingyan. Her initial glance was unremarkable, but then her eyes widened in surprise. “Have… have we met before?”

“A year ago, Celestial, you saved me in a small village west of Dragon Ridge. I wonder if you remember.” Mingyan looked at her, slightly nervous. This was the celestial being who had saved him! He hadn’t expected to meet her again, here at the Huang family estate!

Ning Feixuan thought for a moment, then nodded. “Now that you mention it, I do recall. I didn’t expect you to reach the Great Brook Realm in just a year. It seems I underestimated you. Very impressive.”

Huang Feiyan blinked, surprised. She hadn’t expected the person who saved Mingyan to be her close friend… What a coincidence…

Mingyan cupped his hands in respect. “If it weren’t for your help that day, Celestial, I would have become a wandering soul. I didn’t have a chance to thank you before you left… I’ll never forget your kindness.”

“There’s no need.” Ning Feixuan smiled faintly. “Seeing you healthy and well is enough.”

Mingyan was silent for a moment, then nodded and stepped aside. Huang Feiyan glanced at him with a strange expression, then greeted the others and led them to the guest rooms. Shortly after, she returned with Ning Feixuan.

“Feixuan, you go ahead. I’ll talk to Mingyan.” Huang Feiyan saw Mingyan still standing there.

Ning Feixuan nodded and entered the inner courtyard. The Huang family didn’t allow outsiders inside, which meant Ning Feixuan wasn’t considered an outsider.

Huang Feiyan turned to Mingyan, her voice filled with surprise. “Did Feixuan really save you?”

Chapter 21: Sun and Moon

Later that evening, Huang Feiyan visited Mingyan’s temporary residence.

She knocked. “Mingyan, are you there?”

“Come in, I’m here.” Mingyan, who was cultivating, opened his eyes and invited her in.

Huang Feiyan entered, her palace dress flowing gracefully, a gentle smile on her beautiful face. “I’m disturbing you again.”

“Not at all, Feiyan. Was my blood useful?” Mingyan shook his head, then asked.

“We don’t have concrete results yet.” Huang Feiyan pursed her lips and shook her head slightly. “It will take some time. You understand, we can’t be hasty in case something goes wrong and endangers my aunt further.”

Mingyan nodded, then recounted his encounter with Zhao Feiliu.

A flicker of annoyance crossed Huang Feiyan’s face, but it quickly vanished. “Don’t worry, I’ll tell my mother. You won’t be disturbed. We won’t let him bother you. Since we invited you here, we won’t cause you any more trouble.”

“I’m not afraid of trouble, but I prefer to be prepared. Know yourself and know your enemy, and you will never be defeated.” Mingyan said calmly, “But I’m curious. You said the women of the Huang family don’t marry. Why would anyone pursue you? Doesn’t he know it’s a futile pursuit?”

“That’s a long story. There have been some rumors about the Huang family recently, spread by someone with unknown motives. It’s because of these rumors that people like Zhao Feiyun exist.” Huang Feiyan’s expression remained gentle. She rarely showed negative emotions, which likely contributed to her attractiveness.

Mingyan didn’t inquire further about the rumors. Since they were rumors, they weren’t true, and asking would be rude.

“By the way, I brought you a gift.” Huang Feiyan closed her eyes, and a slightly worn scroll appeared in her hand. “My mother said your Rain Terrace Scripture doesn’t emphasize combat, but you’re quite special. I chose this ancient scroll for you. It contains combat techniques and cultivation methods, a fortuitous encounter of a past Huang family cultivator. It seems to be suitable only for male cultivators, so it’s perfect for you.”

Mingyan was surprised. He had been meaning to ask Huang Feiyan about combat techniques, but she had already prepared something for him. He felt a warmth in his chest. Was this what friendship felt like? He thought about it. He hadn’t had any real friends before.

As a child, his unique constitution and precociousness made it difficult to connect with other children in his village. He became a hunter at twelve. Although the village elders treated him well, he had no friends his age. It was the same in Rain Terrace Blessed Land. Due to the favor of the Sect Leader and his master, Liu Yunfeng, his closest relationship was with Liu Mengli, but she was his junior sister, not a friend, and there was a significant age gap…

Strictly speaking, Huang Feiyan was his first friend.

Mingyan looked at the scroll and accepted it. “Thank you.”

“There’s no need for thanks between friends.” Huang Feiyan smiled. “Besides, the women of our family can’t cultivate this technique anyway. Giving it to you prevents it from being lost.”

After speaking with Huang Junru, Huang Feiyan had gone to the family archives to search for information on the “Human King Physique” but found nothing. However, she had stumbled upon this scroll.

In reality, the technique wasn’t exclusively for men, but considering Mingyan’s excessive politeness, she had used that as an excuse to give it to him.

Her claim about Huang Junru commenting on the Rain Terrace Scripture’s lack of combat techniques was also a lie. Huang Junru hadn’t said that, but Huang Feiyan assumed the techniques of a Blessed Land couldn’t compare to those of a Sacred Land or a prominent family. An extra technique would be beneficial for Mingyan.

Mingyan accepted the scroll without further hesitation and unfurled it. The technique was called the “Sun and Moon Scripture.” He paused. The words “sun” and “moon” seemed to have a connection to him…

“This scroll was found in an ancient tomb. It contains several combat techniques and seemingly includes cultivation principles for the Transcendence Realm. It should be very helpful for you.” Huang Feiyan had inquired about the scroll’s origins from her Seventeenth Aunt, who managed the archives.

In reality, the Sun and Moon Scripture could be cultivated by women as well, and its Transcendence Realm principles were incredibly powerful, comparable to Emperor-level techniques. However, many of its combat techniques clashed with their primary cultivation method, the “Phoenix Nirvana Scripture,” passed down from their ancestor, the Phoenix. Naturally, the Phoenix Nirvana Scripture was more suitable for them. Moreover, its Transcendence Realm portion was already incredibly powerful, so there was no need to cultivate other techniques. The mysterious Sun and Moon Scripture was simply stored in the archives, uncultivated.

Mingyan stored the scroll within his Qi Sea.

Huang Feiyan noticed the scroll vanish and looked surprised. “Eh? You’ve reached the Illuminating Sea Realm? So quickly?”

Mingyan realized he shouldn’t have revealed this and felt slightly embarrassed. He had been careless.

“Hmm? You’re only at the Great Brook Realm… You can already enter your Qi Sea?” Huang Feiyan quickly sensed his true cultivation level and was astonished, then chuckled. “You truly are unique… But don’t reveal this to others. Your natural medicinal physique and the ability to enter your Qi Sea at the Great Brook Realm could bring you a lot of trouble.”

Seeing that Huang Feiyan, although surprised, wasn’t acting strangely, Mingyan relaxed. He realized he had been too sensitive. Huang Feiyan wasn’t greedy or envious. He chuckled at his own nervousness.

“Yes, I understand. Actually, I was wondering, since I can enter my Qi Sea, can I start thinking about my weapon?”

“Yes, indeed. Do you have a preferred weapon type?” Huang Feiyan nodded. “Choosing a weapon and its materials requires careful consideration. It will determine the weapon’s potential. Of course, you can’t just focus on strength and ignore compatibility. A weapon should feel like an extension of yourself.”

A preferred weapon… Mingyan pondered. Swords? Sabers?

Those were the most common choices for cultivators… But he had no experience with them… A bell? He had heard of some cultivators using bells as weapons, both offensively and defensively… But it didn’t feel right… A cauldron? Swinging a cauldron at someone sounded appealing, and he was strong enough… But he dismissed that idea as well…

The four arts: music, chess, calligraphy, and painting? Were there any suitable weapons among them? Mingyan frowned. He was only proficient in one of those…

“Don’t rush. Choosing a weapon is important for a cultivator. It’s good to think it over carefully.” Huang Feiyan smiled. “The Huang family has some special materials. I’ll take you to choose some later, as a reward for helping my aunt.”

Mingyan shook his head. “I’ve already received the Sun and Moon Scripture. I shouldn’t…”

“Hmm? That’s not right. The Sun and Moon Scripture is a gift from a friend, not a reward.” Huang Feiyan tilted her head, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “A reward is a reward, and a gift is a gift. They’re not the same.”

“But I… don’t have anything to give you, Feiyan…”

“You saved me twice. That’s more valuable than any gift.” Huang Feiyan tapped his forehead playfully with her finger. “Isn’t that enough?”

Mingyan realized he could never win a verbal sparring match against her and chuckled helplessly.

“Alright, I won’t disturb you any longer. Don’t worry about Zhao Feiyun. He wouldn’t dare cause trouble for you in the outer courtyard.” Huang Feiyan clapped her hands, her fragrance wafting towards him. “Think carefully about your weapon choice. I’ll let you know as soon as we have results from the blood test. And again, if you have any trouble or need anything, don’t hesitate to ask. You’re my savior and my friend, and you might also become my aunt’s and the Huang family’s savior…”

She emphasized this point. With others, she would have worried about them taking advantage of her family’s gratitude, but with Mingyan, it was the opposite. She was worried he wouldn’t ask for enough…

Mingyan nodded, and Huang Feiyan, satisfied, left with a light step.

Friend… Mingyan thought about this word, a smile appearing on his face. Was this what friendship felt like? It felt… warm…

He shook his head and focused his consciousness on his Qi Sea. The slightly worn scroll floated there, emitting a faint glow. He willed it into his hand and opened it again, looking at the characters “Sun and Moon Scripture.”

Although the characters were simple, the more he looked at them, the more profound and arcane they seemed… He focused on the characters “sun” and “moon,” noticing they emitted faint glows, gold for “sun” and silver for “moon”… Even the original Rain Terrace Scripture, written by the sect’s founder, hadn’t seemed so mystical…

The glows intensified, becoming blindingly bright, like a true sun and moon. Complex runes shimmered on their surfaces. Mingyan watched in amazement as the characters detached from the scroll and flew into the air, the “sun” rising towards the sky and the “moon” descending below the horizon… The “sun” then transformed into a miniature, radiant sun, hanging in the sky of his Qi Sea.

Its light was intense, radiating warmth… as if a real sun was shining within him…

…What was happening?

Mingyan was stunned. He looked down at the scroll. The characters “sun” and “moon” were gone, replaced by miniature images of a radiant sun and a silvery moon…

His Qi Sea, previously bright but without a visible light source, now contained a miniature sun… He didn’t know if this was good or bad. According to his understanding, the Qi Sea shouldn’t have a sun or moon…

What had Celestial Sister given him? He had a feeling this Sun and Moon Scripture was extraordinary!