Category: After Failing to Find Immortality

Chapter 199: The Fox Spirit and the Pendant Spirit

Seeing the two disappear into the bedroom, Yu Xuanling smiled with satisfaction.

She was happy that Master had found love. As the spirit of his jade pendant, his happiness was her happiness.

And she was also quite fond of Madam Mao. She had no objections to their marriage, no jealousy. She just regretted not being able to witness their intimate moments.

And although Madam’s condition was a bit strange, she was safe and sound, no need to worry.

But…

Yu Xuanling looked up at the night sky, feeling the gentle breeze on her face, her eyes distant and thoughtful.

There was something strangely familiar about this place.

“To be able to fluster Tianlu like that, you must be quite mischievous.”

A soft chuckle broke the silence.

Yu Xuanling turned around to see Yun Yue, her eyes open, a playful smile on her face.

“Miss Yun Yue? I thought you were resting…”

“Ruoyu’s Yin techniques are easy to break. And she wasn’t serious, just trying to help us sleep.”

Yun Yue yawned, her beautiful face showing a hint of fatigue. She sat up, her robe slipping slightly, revealing a glimpse of her shoulder. “Besides, it’s rare to have a chance to chat with you, Miss Xuanling. I thought I’d wake up and say hello~”

Yu Xuanling’s smile faded, and she bowed respectfully. “My name is Yu Xuanling. I’m the spirit of Master and Madam’s jade pendant. You can call me Xuanling, Miss Yun Yue.”

“There’s no need for formalities, Miss Xuanling. Just relax.”

Yun Yue sat gracefully, her legs crossed, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. “Now that I’m looking closely, I realize how profound your possession technique is. I can’t even tell the difference between you and Shuya. If it weren’t for your different personalities, I wouldn’t be able to distinguish between you two.”

This wasn’t just a simple possession technique.

It was a far more advanced and subtle method, their souls merging seamlessly, amplifying their power. And it even benefited Hua Shuya, the host.

Yu Xuanling bit her lip and murmured, “It’s just a small trick, nothing special.”

Yun Yue couldn’t help but smile.

This mischievous little spirit was unexpectedly shy. She had been so lively and playful when talking to Tianlu and Ruoyu, but now she was quiet and reserved.

“Miss Xuanling, I heard from Tianlu that you’ve lost your memories.”

“Indeed.”

Yu Xuanling nodded, not trying to hide it. “I only remember some Yin techniques and a few vague impressions.”

“Is that so…”

Yun Yue studied her face intently, a strange feeling stirring within her.

After a moment of silence, she murmured, “Perhaps we have a connection, Miss Xuanling.”

Yu Xuanling was startled. “What do you mean, Miss Yun Yue—”

“Ah… it was just a random thought. Don’t mind me.” Yun Yue quickly smiled. “When I first met Ruoyu, I felt a similar sense of familiarity, just like now, with you.”

Yu Xuanling tilted her head, her voice a soft murmur.

“Are you flirting with me, Miss Yun Yue?”

Yun Yue: “…”

This girl’s thoughts were truly amusing.

But after a moment of thought, her smile softened. “Miss Xuanling, are you still… upset about what I did to Ruoyu?”

“Not at all.”

Yu Xuanling lowered her eyes. “I wasn’t there for those six months in the dream realm, so I don’t know you very well. But Master and Madam treat you like family, so I naturally want to get closer to you.”

“That’s good to hear.”

Yun Yue smiled faintly, not wanting to press the matter. “We should talk more in the future. I’m quite interested in your possession technique. And if you ever need anything, Miss Xuanling, I’ll do my best to help you.”

Yu Xuanling was silent for a moment.

Then she suddenly asked, “Are those tails real, Miss Yun Yue?”

“Hmm?”

Yun Yue looked at her tails, surprised.

But then she smiled gently. “Of course they are. If you like, Miss Xuanling, you can touch them.”

“R-really?” Yu Xuanling’s eyes lit up.

“It’s just touching my tails. It’s not a big deal.” Yun Yue patted the seat beside her. “Come closer, so we can get to know each other better.”

“A-alright…”

Yu Xuanling hesitantly moved closer.

As soon as she sat down, two fluffy fox tails brushed against her.

She hesitated for a moment, then couldn’t resist reaching out and touching them, her fingers marveling at their soft and silky texture.

So soft, so comfortable!

Yun Yue smiled, watching her with amusement. “What do you think, Miss Xuanling?”

“I’ve never seen such beautiful tails before.”

Yu Xuanling gently stroked the fur, her voice filled with wonder. “I wish I had tails like these.”

Yun Yue was surprised. “You truly like them?”

“It’s Master’s preference.”

Yu Xuanling replied without hesitation. “There are many fox women in the stories Master reads. He always admires their beauty. I’ve read those stories with him, and I also find those fox spirits incredibly captivating.”

She had even tried to imitate their seductive charm.

But it hadn’t had much effect on Master.

“…”

Yun Yue froze, her lips parted slightly, a blush creeping onto her cheeks, her heart fluttering.

She quickly cleared her throat, trying to regain her composure, and changed the subject. “Miss Xuanling, what do you think of the Lunar Valley?”

“The Lunar Valley?”

Yu Xuanling paused, then said softly, “It’s a beautiful and peaceful place, with abundant spiritual energy. And it’s Madam’s home. It’s wonderful.”

She had seen the elders during her possession and found them to be quite approachable.

Even kind and caring.

“Indeed, it’s rare to find a sect that has remained hidden from the world for so long.”

Yun Yue sighed softly.

If the Lunar Valley could continue to live in peace and seclusion, avoiding conflict and bloodshed, their disciples living comfortable lives, it would be a good thing.

For the disciples, for the elders, and for the world.

That was why Tianlu treated them with respect, like a dutiful son-in-law.

It was a strange twist of fate.

“Mmm—”

A faint moan suddenly echoed through the air.

They both froze.

“What was that?”

Yu Xuanling looked around, puzzled.

The sound was soft and sensual, like a whisper, its allure growing stronger as she listened.

“They’re quite impatient.” Yun Yue chuckled. “Perhaps Ruoyu is still adjusting to the Moon Shadow Breath, her desires amplified.”

Yu Xuanling blushed, a warmth spreading through her body. She murmured, “Could that be… Master and Madam?”

Yun Yue looked at her curiously.

Despite her bold words earlier, she seemed quite innocent.

She smiled and took Yu Xuanling’s hand. “They’re just enjoying their time together as husband and wife. There’s no need for us to worry. Let’s go back to our rooms and rest. Shuya’s body is tired.”

“Ah… I understand.”

Yu Xuanling blushed and nodded obediently, standing up to leave.

…

A while later, they returned to their rooms.

But as Yun Yue closed her door, she hesitated.

She glanced towards Lin Tianlu’s bedroom, her eyes distant and thoughtful. “He likes fox women…?”

She snapped out of her reverie and stamped her foot playfully, a strange mix of emotions swirling within her. She quickly closed the door.

But looking at the flickering candlelight in the window, her steps seemed lighter, her heart filled with a strange excitement.

Chapter 198: A Nighttime Rendezvous

“Haa…”

As their lips parted, a charged silence hung in the air.

Lin Tianlu smiled and caressed Mao Ruoyu’s cheek, then picked up her teacup, intending to refill it.

With Yun Yue and Hua Shuya present, it wouldn’t be appropriate to continue their intimate moment.

But…

He paused, his eyes narrowed.

The lighting in the pavilion was dim, illuminated only by the moonlight, but Ruoyu’s hair… had it changed color?

“Hee hee hee~”

A soft, seductive chuckle echoed through the courtyard, a mesmerizing sound that sent a shiver down his spine.

Lin Tianlu put down the teacup and turned around.

Under the moonlight, he saw the transformation.

Her silver hair had returned to its original black, her white robe replaced by a crimson gown, embroidered with a phoenix spreading its wings. The silky fabric clung to her skin, revealing her smooth thighs and curvaceous hips, the contrast between black and white accentuating her beauty.

But the most striking change was her open robe, revealing her ample bosom, its curves highlighted by the moonlight, glowing with a jade-like luster.

Mao Ruoyu smiled seductively, her fingers touching Yun Yue and Hua Shuya’s temples, a ripple of energy spreading outwards.

“Ruoyu, what are you—”

“Just helping them sleep more soundly, so they won’t be disturbed.”

Mao Ruoyu raised her head, her eyes sparkling with desire, a seductive smile on her lips.

“Your kiss, Tianlu, has awakened a fire within me.”

Lin Tianlu’s eyes widened in surprise. “You’re not Ruoyu… no, are you really Ruoyu?”

“Of course.”

Mao Ruoyu tilted her head, her voice a soft purr. “Didn’t I tell you, Tianlu? My soul has changed, and my personality is a bit different. But I’m still Mao Ruoyu.”

She gently moved the two sleeping women from her lap and stood up, her movements graceful and seductive.

A sweet fragrance filled the pavilion, her every step radiating an alluring charm. Before Lin Tianlu could react, she was standing before him, her hand cupping his face, her breath warm on his skin. “Your face is still so handsome, Tianlu. I want to gaze upon it always, to keep you within my sight forever.”

Lin Tianlu chuckled. “I didn’t know you were so good with words, Ruoyu.”

“These aren’t just words, Tianlu. They’re my true feelings.”

Mao Ruoyu’s eyes sparkled, her smile even more seductive. “I would do anything to be with you, Tianlu.”

She giggled softly, her fingers tracing the edge of her robe, pulling it down slightly, revealing more of her ample bosom, her skin smooth and flawless.

“Tianlu, if you like… you can have a taste.”

She licked her lips, her voice filled with a playful invitation.

Lin Tianlu felt her hand on his lower back, her fingers tracing circles on his skin.

He chuckled awkwardly. “Ruoyu, Shuya and Yun Yue are still…”

“Don’t worry about them. They won’t wake up until tomorrow morning.” Mao Ruoyu gently took his hand and placed it on her waist, her skin soft and warm beneath his touch.

“I only show this side of myself to you, Tianlu. And I hope you’ll… take pity on me.”

Her golden-red eyes narrowed, and she pressed her body against his.

Before Lin Tianlu could even respond, they were locked in a passionate embrace, her soft and fragrant body pressed against his.

Even with his strong self-control, he couldn’t help but feel a surge of desire.

But suddenly, Mao Ruoyu gasped, her hands flying up to her waist.

A pair of slender arms had wrapped around her from behind.

“Wh-what is—”

“I finally get to talk to you, Madam~”

A playful voice chuckled.

Lin Tianlu and Mao Ruoyu were startled, turning to see…

Hua Shuya, who was supposed to be asleep, hugging Mao Ruoyu from behind.

—No.

Lin Tianlu’s eyes widened. “Miss Yu?”

“Master, it’s been a while!” Yu Xuanling poked her head out from behind Mao Ruoyu, a mischievous smile on her face. “You’re even better at charming women than I imagined~”

Lin Tianlu froze.

This girl was truly relentless.

Mao Ruoyu frowned and struggled to break free from Yu Xuanling’s embrace. “You… are you the spirit of the jade pendant?”

“Indeed, it’s me.”

Yu Xuanling clasped her hands behind her back and smiled. “Although we’ve communicated many times, this is our first proper meeting, Madam. But I’m currently sharing Hua Shuya’s body, so this isn’t my true form.”

Mao Ruoyu’s expression softened slightly.

She was grateful to this spirit.

Yu Xuanling had helped her through several dangerous situations. Perhaps she even owed her life to the jade pendant.

But…

Her timing was truly terrible.

Mao Ruoyu sighed inwardly, a flicker of regret in her eyes.

“What is it, Miss Yu—”

“Count me in!”

Yu Xuanling grabbed Mao Ruoyu’s hands, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “You and Master have already… consummated your relationship, Madam. You must be very experienced. Teach me! I want to be with Master too!”

“Wha—”

Mao Ruoyu was stunned.

She hadn’t expected such a bold request from this spirit.

—Wait!

Her heart skipped a beat, and she asked urgently, “How did you know about that, Miss Yu?!”

She hadn’t told anyone.

Yu Xuanling narrowed her eyes, a mischievous smile on her lips. “I was sharing your body, Madam. Although I couldn’t feel it myself, I saw everything.”

Mao Ruoyu almost stumbled, her face burning with embarrassment.

For someone to have witnessed that…

“Ahem!”

Lin Tianlu coughed loudly, interrupting their conversation. “Miss Hua is tired, Miss Yu. Why don’t you take her and Yun Yue back to your room to rest? We can talk tomorrow.”

He took Mao Ruoyu’s hand, her body frozen with embarrassment, and led her towards the bedroom.

“Madam and I are going to sleep now. You should rest too, Miss Yu.”

As they walked away, Yu Xuanling blinked her beautiful eyes and chuckled softly. “Master is so sly. He has such beautiful wives, yet he won’t let me join in.”

She suddenly called out, her voice soft, “Be gentle with Madam, Master! Don’t make her cry and beg for mercy again!”

“…”

Lin Tianlu and Mao Ruoyu stumbled, their faces flushed, and they quickly disappeared into the bedroom.

Chapter 197: The Storm Subsides

The sudden conflict and battle had clearly caused some chaos in the Lunar Valley.

Although the Soul Moon had been shattered and the crisis averted, the shockwave had awakened the sleeping disciples, filling the estate with fear and anxiety. And with several elders still unconscious, the atmosphere was tense and uncertain.

It wasn’t until the Valley Master reappeared, her voice calming and reassuring as she used a powerful Yin technique to address her disciples, that order was restored.

…

A while later…

The Valley Master, her voluptuous figure draped in a light purple veil, walked towards them slowly, supported by the Second Elder.

She looked at the First Elder, who was kneeling on the ground, restrained by the Ninth Elder, and a faint smile appeared on her lips. “Wu Lei, you caused quite a commotion today.”

The First Elder’s face was filled with shame as she bowed her head. “Sister, I was careless and almost caused a disaster. I’ll accept any punishment without complaint.”

“You’re right. You deserve to be punished.”

The Valley Master’s eyes twinkled, her smile widening. “For humiliating me in front of my disciples, you’ll be confined to the Cold Prison for a few days, to reflect on your actions. Otherwise, I won’t be able to forgive you.”

The First Elder looked up in surprise. “Sister?”

The Second Elder was also startled. “Valley Master, isn’t that punishment too lenient?”

“It’s fine.”

The Valley Master shook her head, her smile fading. “This incident wasn’t entirely Wu Lei’s fault. The Soul Moon was corrupted. It couldn’t be helped. And I, as the Valley Master, was negligent in my duties, which led to this disaster.

There’s no need to punish her severely. If anyone deserves to be punished, it’s me.”

The Ninth Elder spoke up. “There’s no need to blame yourself, Valley Master. I’ve heard from Tianlu what happened. As long as everyone is safe, we can consider this incident resolved. A minor punishment as a warning will suffice.”

The Second Elder nodded in agreement.

“Let’s put aside our personal matters for now.”

The Valley Master’s voice turned serious. “I’ll need your help, elders, to calm the disciples and repair the damaged buildings. After that, we’ll choose a new Saintess and create a new Soul Moon formation, a new legacy for our Lunar Valley.”

The Second Elder’s eyes widened. “Valley Master, are you truly going to…”

“It’s time to let go of the past. The Lunar Valley can’t be chained to it forever.”

At that moment, a figure rushed towards them. It was the Fifth Elder, her beautiful face filled with worry.

She hurried over to the Valley Master and asked anxiously, “How are you feeling, Valley Master?”

“I’m fine. I’m recovering.” The Valley Master smiled faintly. “But you were attacked and put to sleep. Are you feeling alright?”

“I sensed something was wrong with their behavior, so I took precautions and purged the toxins from my body.”

The Fifth Elder looked around at the ruined courtyard, her brow furrowed deeply.

She had rushed over as soon as she woke up, already aware of the situation. But the damage was even worse than she had imagined.

“Who subdued the First Elder and the others—?”

“It was Lin Tianlu and his companions.” The Second Elder tapped her staff on the ground, her voice filled with awe. “Especially that Lin Tianlu. He’s incredibly powerful.”

“He was the one…”

The Fifth Elder was astonished. “Where are they now?”

“I sent them back to the Ninth Elder’s private chamber to rest. They’ve been working hard all night.” The Valley Master said gently. “Yujun, tell your disciple Bai Xin to be more respectful towards Master Lin. He’s practically family now. There’s no need for hostility.”

The Ninth Elder couldn’t help but smile.

The Fifth Elder’s heart skipped a beat.

She hadn’t expected the Valley Master to show such favor towards that scholar. And for the Lunar Valley, which had been secluded for a thousand years, this was a sign of a deepening relationship, a significant change.

For him to earn the Valley Master’s approval… he must be truly extraordinary!

She said seriously, “I’ll talk to Xin’er.”

The Valley Master nodded, then turned to the Ninth Elder. “Jingyun, remember to treat your son-in-law well. He has a deep connection to the Lunar Valley. Don’t neglect him.”

“I’ll take good care of Tianlu.” The Ninth Elder bowed respectfully, her face beaming with joy.

It was a great honor for her beloved son-in-law to be recognized by the sect.

…

In the courtyard of the private chamber…

Since it was located on the outskirts of the estate, it had been spared from the Soul Moon’s influence and remained peaceful.

Lin Tianlu, dressed in clean clothes, returned to the pavilion with a teapot, pouring hot tea into several cups.

He glanced to the side and saw Yun Yue and Hua Shuya, one on each side, resting their heads on Mao Ruoyu’s lap, their hair and robes intertwined, their faces calm and serene, their beauty ethereal and otherworldly, like a painting of celestial maidens.

He lowered his voice and asked, “Are they asleep?”

“Yes.”

Mao Ruoyu looked down at the two sleeping faces, her expression gentle. “Sister Yun wasn’t seriously injured, but her soul is weakened. She needs to rest for a few days. And Shuya fought alongside me in the sacred ground and then in that battle. She’s exhausted.”

She gently stroked their hair, like a mother caring for her children.

Lin Tianlu blew on his tea and offered it to Mao Ruoyu with a smile. “You’re truly becoming a virtuous wife, Ruoyu.”

Mao Ruoyu took the teacup, her expression softening, her usual coldness melting away.

“But—”

Lin Tianlu glanced at their clothes and hair. “I’m curious, what happened in the sacred ground? Why have you and Shuya transformed?”

Their silver hair and embroidered robes were quite striking, but he hadn’t wanted to ask earlier, amidst the chaos.

“It’s… a bit complicated.”

Mao Ruoyu’s eyelashes fluttered, her voice soft.

Lin Tianlu frowned. “Did something happen?”

“It’s my fault. After absorbing the Moon Shadow Breath, my soul… split.”

Mao Ruoyu’s voice was calm, her aura ethereal. “Especially after entering the sacred ground, the Yin energy there triggered the separation. My other half materialized, and we fought against Shuya and me.”

“Your soul split?”

Lin Tianlu was surprised.

Such a strange and bizarre phenomenon!

“But my soul is whole again now, our minds merged.”

Mao Ruoyu’s voice softened slightly. “Don’t worry, I’m still myself. Both consciousnesses are now one. And with the Moon Shadow Breath to balance me, there won’t be any more problems.”

“I’m glad you’re alright.”

Lin Tianlu sighed in relief and gently caressed her cheek, his voice warm. “Although there was some chaos today, it gave me a chance to meet the elders and the Valley Master, to earn their trust.

You should be able to visit Ninth Elder freely now, Ruoyu, without worrying about the valley’s rules.”

Mao Ruoyu was startled.

She looked down, her heart filled with warmth and gratitude.

She had seen everything Lin Tianlu had done these past few days, his respectful and courteous behavior towards the elders, his unwavering support.

A warm feeling spread through her body. The man she loved cared so much about her.

“I don’t know how to repay your kindness, Tianlu.”

“There’s no need for repayment.”

Lin Tianlu leaned closer and gently cupped her face, his voice soft. “I would do anything for my beloved wife.”

Mao Ruoyu’s eyes sparkled, her coldness melting away, replaced by a gentle warmth and a hint of seductive allure.

Their gazes locked, their love unspoken as they leaned closer.

As their lips met, Mao Ruoyu’s body trembled slightly, her cheeks flushing, her beauty even more captivating.

She closed her eyes, her long lashes fluttering against her cheeks, her response shy and hesitant, but filled with a growing passion.

But lost in the moment, neither of them noticed…

A golden-red aura was swirling around Mao Ruoyu, her silver hair gradually turning black.

Chapter 196: Decisive Action

Lin Tianlu’s expression turned serious.

He hadn’t expected her to admit it so readily. And her tone didn’t sound like she was joking.

“You knew about the Soul Moon’s transformation, Valley Master?”

“Of course.”

“So you knew what was going to happen, and yet you allowed yourself to be imprisoned?”

“I wanted to see how far the First Elder would go.”

The Valley Master’s smile remained bright and carefree. “And she was quite decisive. She acted swiftly and secretly, capturing me without anyone noticing. I have to commend her efficiency.”

“But you knew about her plot. Why didn’t you resist?”

Lin Tianlu said thoughtfully, “And you don’t sound regretful or angry.”

The Valley Master narrowed her eyes and said something shocking. “Because I didn’t want to resist.”

“You… You intentionally let the First Elder capture you?”

“Indeed.”

She smiled seductively. “To avoid suspicion, I pretended to be my usual self. I only feigned panic when I fell into her trap, to make her believe she had succeeded.”

The Valley Master touched her chest, her voice filled with mock exasperation. “But I didn’t expect her to be so rough with me, all those restraints and seals… I almost thought I would be trapped here forever. It was quite a headache.”

Lin Tianlu was silent for a moment.

Then he said thoughtfully, “It seems even you, Valley Master, couldn’t avoid the Soul Moon’s influence.”

The Valley Master’s eyebrows twitched, and she admitted frankly, “You’re right, Master Lin. I did it because of the Soul Moon.”

She looked up at the night sky, her voice soft as she explained.

“The Soul Moon originated from the Moon Soul Sacred Sect a thousand years ago. It’s a sacred artifact, passed down through the Saintess. It contains the essence of our sect, the culmination of generations of knowledge and power. But… the deeper one cultivates the Moon Soul Sacred Sect’s techniques, the more susceptible they become to the Soul Moon’s influence.”

“The First Elder is a prime example. And I’m no exception.”

“When the previous Saintess passed away, the Soul Moon was released, seeking a new vessel. I knew the moment I sensed the change that things were going to get out of control.”

The Valley Master flexed her wrists, still sore from the restraints. “If I hadn’t let the First Elder capture me, while I still had some control over my mind, and used those chains to seal myself here, I fear I would have done something even worse than her.

It was safer for everyone in the Lunar Valley for her to drain my Yin energy and keep me locked up.”

Lin Tianlu was speechless.

So the Soul Moon, a legacy of the Moon Soul Sacred Sect, was also its greatest weakness.

No wonder the Saintess was so important to the Lunar Valley.

“You were willing to sacrifice yourself for the sake of your people, Valley Master. That’s truly admirable.”

“There’s nothing admirable about my cowardice.”

The Valley Master sighed, her voice filled with shame. “I simply shifted the burden to the other elders.”

Lin Tianlu pondered her words, then smiled faintly and bowed respectfully.

“You knew all along that there would be a solution, didn’t you, Valley Master?”

“Oh?”

The shame on her face vanished, replaced by a mischievous smile. “You’ve seen through me again, Master Lin?”

“You don’t seem like someone who would give up so easily.” Lin Tianlu said meaningfully. “It must have something to do with fortune-telling.”

The Valley Master’s eyes widened in surprise.

Then she nodded, her voice filled with wonder. “You’re right, Master Lin. I’m somewhat skilled in divination. The First Elder foresaw the arrival of a special individual. And I foresaw—”

She looked at him intently.

“—The arrival of an extraordinary man, someone who would shatter the Soul Moon and sever the thousand-year-old curse. And after that, the ‘Lunar’ and the ‘Moon Soul’ would finally part ways.”

Lin Tianlu’s expression remained calm, and he bowed slightly. “You flatter me, Valley Master. I’m just doing what I can. But I’m curious, why would you allow an outsider to interfere in the Lunar Valley’s affairs, to destroy a sacred artifact of the Moon Soul Sacred Sect?”

The Valley Master’s eyes flickered, her voice turning serious. “The Soul Moon wasn’t static. Over the past thousand years, it has been corrupted by… impurities. The ancient resentment and hatred have become twisted and extreme, willing to do anything to achieve their goal of revival.

I also want to see change in the Lunar Valley, but I wouldn’t gamble with the lives of my people, condemning them to a fate worse than death.”

Her expression turned grim, her voice filled with conviction. “That thousand-year legacy is no longer a source of strength and guidance, but a poison, slowly consuming our Lunar Valley, dragging us down with it.

If we cling to the past, we’ll only destroy ourselves. We must… make a clean break.”

“Only by destroying the old can we create something new.”

Her words, filled with determination and wisdom, impressed Lin Tianlu.

This Valley Master was no fool.

“And now—”

The Valley Master smiled gently. “It seems my choice was the right one.”

Lin Tianlu bowed his head respectfully. “Your courage and wisdom are admirable, Valley Master.”

She waved her hand dismissively. “There’s no need for praise, Master Lin… I simply left the matter in your hands. I feel quite guilty for not taking action myself.”

Lin Tianlu smiled, not wanting to dwell on the topic.

Now that he understood the situation, there was no need for further questions.

“Valley Master, you’ve just been freed. Shouldn’t you rest for a while?”

“I’ll help clean up this mess.”

The Valley Master chuckled. “I’ve been resting for almost ten days. It’s time to get moving.”

She stretched, then frowned slightly, her voice hesitant. “Master Lin, I’m feeling a bit weak. Could you help me?”

“Just hold onto my arm, Valley Master.” Lin Tianlu took off his outer robe and wrapped it around her.

She was startled by his kindness, then she looked up at him, noticing that his eyes were still closed. Her smile softened, and she gently tapped his chest. “Why don’t you take Ruoyu and the others back to their rooms to rest, Master Lin? I’ll deal with these matters. We can talk properly tomorrow.”

“Alright.”

“And—”

The Valley Master’s smile faded, and she said seriously, “Thank you for saving the Lunar Valley, Master Lin. I won’t forget your kindness.”

Lin Tianlu smiled and lifted her into his arms, leaping gracefully into the air. “Just let Ruoyu and me visit more often during the holidays, Valley Master. That would be enough.”

They emerged from the underground chamber, landing softly in the moonlit valley.

Chapter 195: Freed From Confinement

Her soft voice was like a silken thread, weaving its way into his mind.

Even a simple greeting from her could easily ensnare an ordinary person, making them lose themselves in her allure.

Lin Tianlu narrowed his eyes. “Are you the Valley Master of the Lunar Valley?”

“Of course.”

The gray-haired woman smiled faintly. “If I weren’t, why would I be imprisoned here?”

“You’re much calmer than I expected, Valley Master.”

“Your aura is different from the First Elder’s. And your gaze is gentle and peaceful, not at all threatening.” The Valley Master’s voice was calm and unhurried. “You came here to rescue me, and you even carefully removed my gag. You must be a kind person.”

Lin Tianlu averted his gaze, closing his eyes to avoid any awkwardness.

“These restraints are truly…”

“The First Elder was worried that I might break free, so she took precautions.”

The Valley Master’s smile was serene. “Why don’t you release me from these chains first, Master Lin? It’s a bit awkward to talk like this.”

“Bear with me.”

Lin Tianlu carefully removed the two jade needles that were embedded in her temples, and the cloth covering her eyes slipped down, revealing a pair of bright red eyes.

She gasped softly, her body trembling slightly, and looked up at him, her eyes sparkling with a hint of warmth. “Thank you. There are still many restraints on me. It will take some time.”

“The First Elder didn’t hold back.”

“It was just a minor inconvenience. Don’t worry about it.”

As Lin Tianlu removed the chains one by one, the Valley Master’s expression remained calm, as if she didn’t care about her predicament.

She looked at him, her eyes soft, and smiled faintly. “You’re quite handsome, Master Lin, and your cultivation is remarkable. Even I can’t see through you.”

“You flatter me, Valley Master.”

Lin Tianlu touched the rune on her chest, crushing it with his fingers. “But you seem to be aware of everything that’s happening in the Lunar Valley.”

“Although my senses and movements were sealed, I could still project my consciousness.”

The Valley Master smiled faintly. “You sensed my presence in the main hall yesterday, Master Lin, and you responded.”

“Indeed.”

He had sensed a strange presence within the altar when they first arrived.

He had felt a gentle breeze on his cheek, like a silent greeting. So while talking to the First Elder, he had also been communicating with the imprisoned Valley Master.

His final farewell had been addressed to both of them.

But he hadn’t wanted to interfere, being an outsider in an unfamiliar environment.

“It’s a blessing for the Lunar Valley that Ruoyu, after all these years, has returned with such a fine fiancé.”

“You know Ruoyu, Valley Master?”

“That girl possesses a unique talent, and she has a special connection to our Lunar Valley. I’ve been watching her for a long time.” The Valley Master chuckled softly. “Allowing her to leave and experience the world was a wise decision. Without her, the Lunar Valley would be in chaos right now.”

This Valley Master was as gentle and kind as the Ninth Elder had described.

Lin Tianlu gently lifted her legs. “Forgive me, Valley Master.”

“There’s no need.”

With a thought, his broken sword appeared, spinning gracefully as it sliced through the remaining chains, shattering the restraints. The Valley Master’s limp body fell into his arms.

He carefully placed her on the jade platform.

The Valley Master flexed her numb wrists and crossed her legs, a bright smile on her face. “You’re truly a gentleman, Master Lin, kind and considerate. No wonder the elders praise you so highly and are willing to bend the rules for you.”

“You flatter me, I’m just—”

“But you won’t even look at me?”

Lin Tianlu’s expression turned awkward.

How could he look at her?

She was practically naked, her skin exposed. Meeting her gaze would only make things more awkward.

“You’ve shown great kindness to the Lunar Valley. It’s fine for you to see me like this.” The Valley Master chuckled softly, trailing her fingers along her smooth legs, her voice laced with a hint of teasing. “Besides, you’ve already seen me in a rather… compromising position, haven’t you? There’s no need to be so shy.”

“—There’s no need to test me, Valley Master.”

Lin Tianlu quickly composed himself and bowed slightly. “Although your figure is beautiful and alluring, I have no improper thoughts. Please don’t worry.”

“Oh?”

The Valley Master raised an eyebrow and stared at him, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

“…”

After a moment, her expression softened, and she said with admiration, “You truly possess a righteous heart, Master Lin, unfazed by temptation. I’m impressed.”

Then her voice turned apologetic. “But please forgive me, Master Lin. My energy is unstable right now. My body is emitting a seductive aura, a remnant of the Moon Shadow techniques. It can cloud the minds of others. I didn’t mean to tempt you.”

This constitution… it was similar to Ruoyu’s.

Lin Tianlu smiled faintly. “I don’t mind, Valley Master. There’s no need to apologize. But—”

His expression turned serious. “Everything that happened today… was it all part of your plan?”

The Valley Master was startled.

Then she casually brushed her hair aside, a strange smile on her lips. “What makes you say that, Master Lin?”

“You’re too calm, as if nothing has happened.”

Lin Tianlu’s voice was serious. “Your words and actions are too deliberate, as if you knew everything in advance. But if you truly knew everything, why would you allow yourself to be imprisoned by the First Elder?”

For the leader of a thousand-year-old sect to be caught off guard so easily… it was hard to believe.

And there was a hidden depth to her, a calculating glint in her eyes, despite her gentle smile.

The Valley Master chuckled softly, her eyes narrowing. “You’re quite perceptive, Master Lin. You can see right through me.”

Lin Tianlu frowned. “You’re not even trying to hide it?”

“You saved me from that prison, Master Lin. Why would I deceive you?” The Valley Master stretched languidly, her movements seductive, her alluring figure on full display.

She smiled gracefully. “I knew everything that was happening. I just didn’t interfere. I let events unfold naturally.”