Category: It turns out, they are the protagonists

Chapter 410: Mu Zhian, The One with Natural Charm! 

The Supreme Clarity Pill, a special pill that could fundamentally change a demon cultivator’s constitution, had always been a priceless treasure in the eyes of demon cultivators.

However, throughout history, fewer than five demon cultivators had ever consumed it.

The First Demon Emperor, the current Demon Empress, and a past expert from the Fox Clan, the Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox—these three powerful beings had all consumed the Supreme Clarity Pill and used it to break through the limits of their constitutions, resonating with the Dao.

The other two Supreme Clarity Pills were found by two demon cultivators in some ruins. Although their constitutions were enhanced, they didn’t reach their full potential.

Because of this, people knew that even after consuming the Supreme Clarity Pill, whether one could reach the limits of their constitution depended on their talent and luck.

But regardless, any demon cultivator who consumed the Supreme Clarity Pill would have a limitless future.

Above the hall, pink demonic qi swirled, and within it, illusory fox tails swayed gently.

Luo Tan’s eyes narrowed slightly as she looked at the scene, then she suddenly whispered, “How many tails does the Jade Empress think he can cultivate with the Supreme Clarity Pill?”

“At least seven… As for anything beyond that, it depends on his fate,” Yao Meng said leisurely.

The Supreme Clarity Pill, in a sense, allowed the consumer to awaken their hidden potential.

If their ancestors had a Dao Integration expert, they could even use the pill to recall the expert’s scattered consciousness and ask for guidance in their cultivation.

However, most demon cultivators didn’t have Dao Integration ancestors.

For a demon cultivator to reach the Dao Integration realm was far more difficult than for a human cultivator. Because demon cultivators were inherently stronger, their tribulations were also more challenging.

But coincidentally, the Fox Clan had once produced a Dao Integration expert, the Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox. Although she had perished, if Mu Zhian was lucky, he might be able to awaken her consciousness and ask for her help in reaching the Nine-Tailed level.

Luo Tan nodded with a smile. “My thoughts are similar to yours.”

The Seven-Tailed Celestial Fox was roughly the limit under normal circumstances.

Anything beyond that depended on fate.

“The Demon Realm is probably also watching this in secret,” Yao Meng suddenly said.

Luo Tan chuckled softly. “A human cultivator from the Eastern Continent evolving into a Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox, especially a male cultivator… The Thirteen Seats of the Demon Realm, and even those in seclusion, would probably question their reality.”

Although the Fox Clan was currently declining in the Demon Realm, they had once been a dominant force, their constitution on par with the Demon Empress and the First Demon Emperor. If a human cultivator from the Eastern Continent achieved this level… she wondered how the Demon Realm would react.

Just as Luo Tan predicted, as time passed, deep within the Demon Realm, several demon cultivators were secretly observing the events unfolding in Yu State.

“I wonder how many tails Mu Zhian will be able to cultivate.”

The First Seat looked towards Yu State and murmured softly.

They couldn’t sense the aura of ordinary cultivators in Yu State.

But Mu Zhian was emitting demonic qi, and he also carried the mark left by the Demon Empress.

Although they couldn’t see what was happening in Yu State with their own eyes, they could still sense the growing demonic qi within the Dao Initial Palace.

The stronger the demonic qi, the closer Mu Zhian was to becoming a Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox.

“Compared to that, I’m more worried about Her Majesty’s reaction… We gave the demon cores to the Jade Empress without asking for her permission. Is that really okay?” a grotesque creature in a corner of the long table said slowly in a raspy voice.

Even though Mu Zhian was chosen by Her Majesty, those were demon cores! If any of them consumed them, they could potentially resonate with the Dao, if not reach Her Majesty’s level.

Even in the Demon Realm, thirteen demon cores were incredibly rare.

After all, demon cores only appeared after a demon cultivator perished.

Yet, they had given away thirteen demon cores for a human cultivator from the Eastern Continent…

“Yes, and we don’t even know if Her Majesty is serious about that young cultivator from the Eastern Continent. If he truly becomes a Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox, he might become a great threat in the future.”

Several others nodded in agreement.

The First Seat’s expression remained calm. “Her Majesty’s seclusion will last for a while. During this time, the Dragon Void Ancient Emperor and I will handle external affairs. If Her Majesty blames us later, you can just shift the responsibility to me.”

A man who had been silent in the corner suddenly spoke. “The Supreme Clarity Pill can only enhance a demon cultivator’s constitution. Whether they can reach their peak potential depends on themselves. Do you really think he can replicate the past glory of the Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox?”

The whispers quieted down.

He was right. Consuming the pill was one thing, but whether he could become a Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox depended on Mu Zhian himself.

There had been others in the Fox Clan who tried to reach the Nine-Tailed level, but none had succeeded.

What made them think a human cultivator from the Eastern Continent could do it?

The high-ranking officials of the Demon Realm looked towards the table before them.

A bronze mirror on the table emitted a faint, demonic glow, and within the light, four illusory fox tails swayed gently.

“He’s already at Four-Tailed,” someone whispered.

“Don’t be impatient. The main event is just beginning,” the First Seat murmured, a hint of anticipation in her eyes.

Let’s see if he’s worthy of Her Majesty.

In the Demon Realm, talent was secondary. Bloodline was everything. Those of noble birth were inherently superior. If Mu Zhian couldn’t even reach the Nine-Tailed level, even if the Demon Empress chose him, it would be disappointing.

These proud demon cultivators willingly submitted to the Demon Empress, even the Dao Integration Dragon Void Ancient Emperor. If the man chosen by Her Majesty was inferior to them in bloodline, it would cast doubt on her judgment.

Oh… but it didn’t really matter to Her Majesty. After all, she had said she just wanted to… have sex with him.

But if Mu Zhian came to the Demon Realm in the future… he would probably be looked down upon.

But if he had the Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox bloodline, the demon cultivators would have a different attitude.

Mmm, they might even have… thoughts about Her Majesty’s man.

The First Seat stared at the four fox tails in the mirror, her eyes flickering.

…

Mu Zhian was completely unaware of what was happening in the outside world.

He was currently immersed in the wondrous experience brought about by the Supreme Clarity Pill.

“I initially thought refining the Supreme Clarity Pill would be like refining other pills, just absorbing its effects into my cauldron. But it seems Rank 9 pills are completely different…”

“Where is this place…?”

After consuming the pill, Mu Zhian looked around the empty space, murmuring to himself.

He had consumed many pills before, but those could be refined by circulating his spiritual energy. However, after consuming the Rank 9 Supreme Clarity Pill, his consciousness had appeared in this strange place.

Suddenly, he heard the sound of bells.

The bells seemed to have a magical power, drawing his gaze. He looked towards the source of the sound and saw a vast green meadow filled with various flowers, the blooming mandala the most alluring and captivating.

Ancient trees, like giant hands, held up the blue sky, sunlight filtering through the leaves.

A pink-haired little girl sat under the shade of a tree, the wind rustling the leaves, light and shadow dancing around her, making her look incredibly beautiful.

But unlike human cultivators, she had a pair of cute fox ears on her head.

“Is this the dwelling place of the Fox Clan in the Demon Realm…? Why is my consciousness here?”

“And who is this girl?”

Mu Zhian’s gaze was drawn to the little girl. She seemed to possess an inexplicable charm that captivated him.

The girl looked up and smiled sweetly. “Who are you, big brother?”

“Why is a human cultivator here? Can you tell me?” she asked, her innocent eyes looking at Mu Zhian.

Mu Zhian’s mind reeled, and he almost instinctively answered, “I have the Three-Tailed Fox body. After consuming the Supreme Clarity Pill, I somehow appeared here.”

“…”

After answering, Mu Zhian suddenly felt like a giant python was lunging at him, its mouth wide open, about to devour him whole.

He jolted awake.

Then, as if realizing something, he bit his tongue and stared at the little girl with apprehension.

Something’s not right… For a moment, his mind had seemed to be completely controlled by this girl, instinctively answering her questions, wanting to please her.

If it weren’t for the mark left by the Demon Empress, he might have been silently controlled by her.

After calming down, Mu Zhian saw countless strands of pink light swirling around the little girl. She smiled gently, looking at him with surprise.

“Oh? You’ve recovered so quickly?”

“It seems the Eastern Continent isn’t as weak as it used to be. She’ll be relieved knowing this.”

This woman is as dangerous as the Demon Empress… Mu Zhian maintained his composure and bowed respectfully. “Junior Mu Zhian greets Senior.”

The next moment, the space around him twisted, as if the world was turning upside down.

After about a stick of incense’s time, a vast, boundless consciousness descended.

No, to be precise, it wasn’t descending, but emanating from the little girl’s body.

Two, three, and finally nine illusory fox tails unfurled behind the girl, swaying gently in the vast meadow, creating a strange and unsettling scene.

The girl’s body also transformed, from a little girl to a mature, sensual woman in a fiery red dress, her jade-like feet bare beneath her skirt.

When she opened her eyes, her previously clear and innocent eyes were replaced with seductive allure.

A silvery laughter echoed through the space, captivating and mesmerizing.

She’s the Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox, the Dao Integration expert of the Fox Clan!

Mu Zhian immediately realized this.

The woman in red turned to look at him, her eyes radiating a captivating light. She chuckled softly. “I didn’t expect the one who refined the Supreme Clarity Pill to be a human cultivator from the Eastern Continent, not a demon cultivator from my Fox Clan.”

“Are you born from a fox demon and a human cultivator?” she asked.

Mu Zhian shook his head. “I just happened to obtain the Three-Tailed Fox body through some opportunities.”

The woman in red didn’t seem surprised. She swayed her nine fox tails as she walked towards him, looking down at the boy with a seductive smile. “It seems you have quite the luck, young cultivator, obtaining the Fox Clan constitution and even finding a Supreme Clarity Pill.”

“Senior’s beauty and wisdom are unparalleled. Junior is truly humbled,” Mu Zhian bowed respectfully. “Although I consumed the Supreme Clarity Pill, I don’t know why I appeared here. I’m at a loss. I hope Senior can enlighten me.”

The woman in red chuckled softly. “The Fox Clan was once prosperous, even rivaling the First Demon Emperor at his peak, but after my death, we gradually declined.”

“In our final decline, the Fox Clan used all our resources to refine a Supreme Clarity Pill and gave it to our most talented member, hoping she could restore our former glory. But she only reached the Eight-Tailed level and ultimately perished.”

“Is it so difficult to become a Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox?” Mu Zhian hesitated.

The woman in red smiled faintly, not answering directly. “After that, the members of the Fox Clan sought refuge with other demon clans, obtaining vast resources, but a second Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox never appeared.”

“Why don’t you guess the reason?”

If I knew the reason, I wouldn’t be asking you… Mu Zhian pondered for a moment. “I heard that whether one can become a Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox depends on whether their ancestors had a Dao Integration expert. If so, it’s relatively easier…”

She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, glancing at Mu Zhian seductively. “That’s true, but not entirely.”

The nine fox tails behind her swayed gently, and she chuckled. “For other demon clans, having a Dao Integration ancestor might make it easier to evolve after consuming the Supreme Clarity Pill, but not necessarily for the Fox Clan~”

“After all, each demon clan can only have one Dao Integration expert.”

Mu Zhian’s body stiffened as he heard these words.

His mind raced, and his eyes widened as he stared at the alluring woman.

“One Dao Integration expert per clan… Could it be the same for constitutions?”

Because the Fox Clan had already produced a Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox, a second one couldn’t appear?

The woman in red giggled, her alluring figure even more tempting. She glanced at him seductively. “You’re quite clever.”

Her voice was incredibly captivating, like a gentle caress, almost mesmerizing.

“Unless I give up my position, there won’t be another Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox in the Fox Clan.”

“And you won’t be able to reach the Nine-Tailed level either.”

At that moment, Mu Zhian finally understood.

No wonder the Fox Clan had declined for so long, scattering among other demon clans to seek resources, yet no second Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox had appeared in the past ten thousand years. It all made sense now.

As long as this woman didn’t relinquish her position, no other fox cultivator could reach the Nine-Tailed level.

Mu Zhian asked calmly, “If I’m not mistaken, Senior, you’re just a wisp of consciousness now, right? Do you have any unfulfilled wishes?”

“If possible, I would like to offer my assistance.”

The Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox chuckled softly. “You’re quite thoughtful, young cultivator. But even if you knew my goal, you wouldn’t be able to help. Leave while I’m still in a good mood. I might change my mind later.”

Her seductive voice and alluring appearance made Mu Zhian’s heart race.

He swore it wasn’t because of her figure or appearance, but because of her inexplicable charm. Her every move was captivating, making him want to submit to her.

Fortunately, Mu Zhian had been in a ‘sage mode’ lately, so he maintained his composure, bowing respectfully. “If I’m not mistaken, Senior, although you’ve perished, your consciousness still exists somewhere in the Nine Provinces…”

“I can promise to find your consciousness and help you be reborn in your true body.”

The Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox narrowed her eyes. “Why should I trust a human from the Eastern Continent?”

“Because of this.”

As if anticipating her question, Mu Zhian smiled gently and took her hand.

The Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox’s body trembled slightly. She was about to scold the boy for his disrespect, but sensing the spiritual energy within him, her eyes lit up. She almost instinctively said,

“It’s you! It’s really you…”

Her voice was filled with surprise, relief, and joy.

Mu Zhian was stunned. “You know me, Senior?”

The Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox seemed to realize her gaffe. She played with a strand of hair and explained, “I foresaw my death and planned to burn my blood essence in a final attempt to enter the Path to Immortality.”

“Then, a guest came to the Fox Clan. She made a pact with me and swore that if I relinquished my position as the Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox, someone would help me be reborn and even ascend to the Transcendence Realm.”

“I initially thought she was lying, but now it seems…” The Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox looked at him intently. “She didn’t lie.”

Mu Zhian was stunned.

Someone made a pact with the dying Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox, promising that someone would come to save her…?

He couldn’t help but think of a certain woman’s face.

The Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox studied Mu Zhian and smiled. “I didn’t expect a human cultivator from the Eastern Continent with the Innate Celestial Furnace constitution to consume the Supreme Clarity Pill. How interesting.”

“Since it’s you, I don’t mind giving you my position.”

Mu Zhian was overjoyed, but then he asked, “Senior, how can I find your sleeping consciousness?”

“I don’t know.”

The Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox admired the boy’s appearance. “The memories of this fragmented consciousness are incomplete. But before I perished, I made arrangements in the Eastern Continent. My consciousness should be preserved within a certain family there.”

“Are there any other clues?” Mu Zhian asked.

“I left many treasures for that family. They should be a prominent ancient clan in the Eastern Continent now. You can go to the Fox Clan’s territory in the Demon Realm. There’s a Soul Locking Bell I left there. It will guide you to where my consciousness is preserved.”

The Fox Clan’s territory… That’s one of Ruoxi’s ‘hometowns.’ It should be abandoned now… Mu Zhian looked at the alluring woman in the red dress and nodded slightly. “I’ll find the Soul Locking Bell as soon as possible and help you be reborn, Senior.”

The Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox hummed in response, her figure beginning to dissipate, her fox tails disappearing one by one, the light in her eyes dimming.

The pink light around her flowed into Mu Zhian’s body.

Boom!

Almost simultaneously, deep within the Dao Initial Palace in Yu State, pink demonic qi surged into the sky!

Above the palace, nine illusory fox tails appeared, swaying gently.

Yao Meng narrowed her eyes, staring in that direction. “He actually succeeded…?”

The pink demonic qi rose like a pillar of light, and within it, the nine fox tails seemed to cover the sky.

Luo Tan’s eyes flickered. She murmured, “Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox… Did he really absorb the entire Supreme Clarity Pill?”

She felt both satisfied and excited.

The Innate Celestial Furnace combined with natural charm… What would that be like?

And from now on, Mu Zhian could change his form at will!

Wei Mengrou’s eyes also flickered. She couldn’t wait to see her Young Master, but she restrained herself.

I have to be reserved…

Within the dim room where Mu Zhian was cultivating, the candlelight flickered.

In the flickering light, nine illusory fox tails unfurled like a peacock’s tail, swaying gently.

Then, Mu Zhian slowly opened his eyes.

A demonic pink light flickered within his deep eyes.

…

A vast amount of demonic qi surged into the sky, even reaching the Demon Realm.

Deep within the Demon Palace, a woman in a luxurious purple dress abruptly opened her alluring eyes, staring in the distance.

After a long time, a playful glint appeared in her crimson eyes. She murmured, “A Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox…”

She hadn’t expected another demon cultivator with the same bloodline as her to appear while she was in seclusion.

And it appeared in Yu State?

What happened while she was away?

The Demon Empress said softly, “Miaoyan.”

Almost instantly, the First Seat of the Demon Realm reacted and rushed over.

After about a quarter of an hour, she arrived at the quiet pocket dimension.

“Your Majesty, why did you leave seclusion early…?”

The First Seat hesitated, asking tentatively.

Her Majesty should still be in seclusion, trying to reach the Transcendence Realm…

“I’ve mostly refined the First Demon Emperor’s essence. I can attempt my tribulation and break through the shackles of heaven and earth soon.”

The Demon Empress paused, then continued, “I have a question for you. While I was in seclusion, a Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox’s demonic qi surged into the sky. What happened?”

“If I’m not mistaken, there shouldn’t be a second Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox in the Fox Clan.”

The secret that each demon clan could only have one Dao Integration expert was only known to a few, including the Demon Empress.

“And who refined the Supreme Clarity Pill?”

The First Seat immediately replied respectfully, “Reporting to Your Majesty, a while ago, the Pill Emperor of Yu State personally refined a Supreme Clarity Pill.”

The Demon Empress’s crimson eyes narrowed, and she scoffed. “I asked the Pill Emperor to refine a Supreme Clarity Pill for me before, but she refused, claiming she wasn’t skilled enough. And now she can refine it?”

“Which demon cultivator consumed the Supreme Clarity Pill and was able to convince the Pill Emperor to refine it?” the Demon Empress continued.

The First Seat hesitated, glancing at the alluring Demon Empress. “It… It was Mu Zhian.”

“?”

Silence fell over the hall. The Demon Empress’s eyes widened slightly, the image of the respectful maid reflected in her crimson eyes.

“Mu Zhian…?”

Chapter 409: Refining the Supreme Clarity Pill, Is Young Master Mu Really Becoming a Nine-Tailed Fox?

“Is this Luo Tan’s palace?”

“As expected of an alchemist, it’s truly luxurious.”

Mu Zhian followed a maid into the magnificent palace.

As befitting a long-established immortal dynasty, he saw many rare spirit beasts and various unknown heavenly treasures along the way.

These things alone were worth a fortune.

There was a saying that no dynasty could last more than three hundred years, but that applied to mortal emperors.

An immortal dynasty founded by a Dao Integration Empress, as long as the Empress lived, would be difficult to destroy.

Lost in thought, Mu Zhian followed the maid for a while, then suddenly realized something was amiss.

“We don’t seem to be heading towards the Dao Initial Palace.”

He had seen luxurious halls and various rare fruits along the way, but now he only saw ordinary flowers and trees.

And more importantly… what kind of palace was accessed through a small path?

“Her Majesty has decreed that due to some private matters, she wishes to speak with you alone in her residence, the Medicine Heart Hall,” the maid patiently explained, pointing to a nearby hall. “It’s right there.”

She couldn’t help but glance at the boy a few more times, a subtle look in her eyes.

Although Her Majesty had mentioned Mu Zhian’s age regression, she was still surprised when she saw him.

She wondered what important matters Her Majesty had to discuss with him in her private bedchamber…

As a maid who had served Her Majesty for years, Gan Sui naturally paid attention to her affairs.

After all, she had never seen Her Majesty show such interest in any man before…

“Is there something you want to tell me?”

Mu Zhian noticed the maid’s subtle gaze and asked directly.

The maid shook her head slightly, gesturing for Mu Zhian to follow her to the Medicine Heart Hall. Then she suddenly asked, “Young Master Mu, have you heard the story of the mortal emperor whose dynasty fell after marrying a bewitching beauty?”

Mu Zhian thought for a moment, then chuckled. “Are you referring to the sixth dynasty of the Eastern Continent?”

He remembered the story recorded in ancient texts. The sixth dynasty was one of the most prosperous in the Eastern Continent, its ruler wise and his lifespan extended by cultivation. The dynasty was peaceful and prosperous.

However, the ruler later married a breathtakingly beautiful woman and even granted her a high position.

From then on, the ruler became obsessed with her, neglecting his duties, and the dynasty gradually declined.

“If I remember correctly, the emperor’s concubine was a fox demon from the Demon Realm, sent to weaken the Eastern Continent’s luck,” Mu Zhian said.

“But why are you asking about this?”

The maid looked at the handsome boy with a hint of disdain, but a faint smile appeared on her face. “I just suddenly remembered it. Don’t mind me, Young Master Mu.”

“I see.”

Mu Zhian smiled faintly.

Just suddenly remembered it?

This was clearly a warning from her Majesty, implying that he should restrain his… thoughts.

To put it bluntly, she suspected him of being a ‘spy’ sent by the Eastern Continent to weaken Yu State’s luck.

However, he was a man, not some ‘Daji.’ He didn’t have the natural charm constitution and couldn’t possibly be a beauty that could topple nations.

The maid didn’t speak to Mu Zhian again along the way, but he could still sense her ‘hostility.’

However, being in a foreign land, even with Yao Meng’s backing, Mu Zhian decided to avoid trouble.

“Young Master Mu, please wait outside the hall.”

They arrived at the Medicine Heart Hall. After giving Mu Zhian a brief explanation, Gan Sui entered the hall.

…

Mu Zhian waited for half an hour.

A full half hour!

If I didn’t know that Luo Tan had no grudge against me, I would think she was deliberately making things difficult for me… Mu Zhian waited patiently outside. After a long while, Gan Sui finally reappeared.

She looked at Mu Zhian and smiled faintly. “Young Master Mu, Her Majesty invites you in.”

“Was Her Majesty busy?” Mu Zhian asked.

Gan Sui shook her head gently. “Her Majesty was bathing and changing. I couldn’t disturb her.”

“My apologies, Young Master Mu.”

She bowed politely.

However, this seemingly polite gesture effectively blocked any further questions from Mu Zhian, giving him no opportunity to complain.

I’ve already apologized. Are you still going to make things difficult for a mere servant like me?

This was the underlying meaning of her actions.

Mu Zhian hummed in response, glanced at the maid, and followed her into the depths of the Medicine Heart Hall. He took a sip of hot tea, and after a while, Luo Tan, dressed in a luxurious white dress, finally appeared.

Her features were delicate and beautiful, her hair cascading down her back. As she looked at the boy, her eyes lit up slightly, but she maintained a calm smile. “Long time no see, Young Master Mu. It seems quite a bit has happened.”

She walked over and sat down on a chair, crossing her black silk-clad legs beneath her white dress, her white boots dangling gently.

Her gaze remained fixed on Mu Zhian, studying him from head to toe.

“No wonder the Jade Empress asked me to refine the Supreme Clarity Pill, hoping to restore you quickly… This is your appearance from a few years ago, right?” Luo Tan asked with a smile.

Does Yao Meng really want me to recover quickly? I don’t think so. She seems quite happy with my current state… Mu Zhian complained inwardly, then chuckled. “This is indeed my appearance from a few years ago.”

He paused, then asked concisely, “You wanted to confirm whether I truly have the Three-Tailed Fox constitution?”

Luo Tan shook her head. “I trust the Jade Empress’s judgment. Since she said so, there’s no need for confirmation.”

Mu Zhian was stunned. “Then why did you tell her you wanted to see me alone—”

“Isn’t it obvious? Our transaction isn’t complete yet. It’s only natural for me to want to see you and confirm your current condition.”

Luo Tan rested her chin on her hand. “I know you must be wondering why I didn’t choose any of the other Innate Celestial Furnaces I’ve met in the past, but chose you after only meeting you a few times.”

She glanced at him, her eyes alluring, yet carrying an air of authority that made it difficult to look directly at her.

“Your Innate Celestial Furnace is different from anyone I’ve met before. Like me, yours can evolve, and… your spiritual energy is even richer than mine.”

“And—”

Luo Tan stood up gracefully, her long hair cascading down her back, her white dress accentuating her figure, revealing her long, sensual legs encased in black silk stockings with a unique pattern.

A sliver of her fair thigh was visible between the hem of her dress and her stockings, her skin smooth and dazzling, alluring and seductive.

She stepped closer, one hand on the armrest of Mu Zhian’s chair, the other on his face, leaning forward, a faint smile on her breathtakingly beautiful face.

“You’re the Jade Empress’s Dao Companion.”

You Dao Integration experts are so strange. Do you all share this… NTR hobby…? Mu Zhian looked into her beautiful eyes, filled with amusement, and complained inwardly.

He had to admit, this woman was truly beautiful, but only he could appreciate it.

Few in Yu State dared to look directly at the Pill Emperor, especially with her imposing aura.

A strand of hair fell across her lips, adding to her allure.

She seemed to have just bathed, and a faint, sweet medicinal fragrance emanated from her, like a rare, intoxicating wine.

After a moment of silence, Mu Zhian suddenly embraced her waist, gently kneading it, and leaned forward, about to kiss her.

However, a slender finger gently touched his lips. Luo Tan licked her lips, a playful smile appearing on her face.

Then, she spoke in a calm, authoritative voice, “Is there something you need?”

A maid stood outside the hall, her head slightly bowed. They were in a corner, partially hidden by a luxurious pillar, making it difficult to see them clearly.

“The Jade Empress sent me to ask when Your Majesty plans to start refining the Supreme Clarity Pill, if you’ve confirmed that Young Master Mu has the Three-Tailed Fox constitution.”

As Luo Tan’s trusted maid, Jingxi naturally knew the Jade Empress’s intentions.

Sensing Mu Zhian’s gaze, Luo Tan licked her lips and smiled. “Tell her I’ll personally deliver the Supreme Clarity Pill within three days.”

She looked at Mu Zhian, a faint smile on her face. “Whether he can refine it or not depends on his own abilities.”

…

Hearing the receding footsteps, Luo Tan looked at Mu Zhian, who seemed relieved, and suddenly whispered, “Exciting, wasn’t it?”

“It wouldn’t have mattered even if we were seen.”

It wouldn’t matter to you, but if word of this reaches the other girls, I’ll probably have to live in the dungeon… Mu Zhian shook his head gently and whispered, “Your Majesty is the Empress of Yu State. If news of our… closeness spreads, it might affect your image in the eyes of your subjects.”

“I don’t mind, but it wouldn’t be good for Your Majesty. After all, your servants seem to be quite concerned about this…”

“My servants?” Luo Tan asked, puzzled. “Who was talking about this?”

“It wasn’t exactly a discussion. They just mentioned the story of the fox demon who caused the downfall of an Eastern Continent dynasty…”

Mu Zhian paused, forcing a smile. “Forget it. It’s not a big deal. You don’t have to worry about it, Your Majesty.”

Luo Tan raised an eyebrow, looking at Mu Zhian meaningfully.

Although he said it wasn’t a big deal, his expression suggested otherwise.

After all, Mu Zhian was her guest. If her servants were gossiping behind his back… she would have to deal with it.

They even dared to make things difficult for the man she had chosen… It seemed she had been too lenient with her servants these past few years.

Luo Tan narrowed her eyes, collected her thoughts, and said, “You seem much weaker than before. After you refine the Supreme Clarity Pill, I’ll have someone prepare some pills to help you recover.”

Mu Zhian looked touched and bowed immediately. “Thank you, Your Majesty.”

“Actually, I’m feeling much better now. I spent half an hour basking in the sun outside. I should be much healthier,” Mu Zhian said with a gentle smile.

Luo Tan hesitated. “Didn’t the servant I sent to receive you bring you inside?”

“She said you were bathing and couldn’t be disturbed, so she had me wait outside.”

Seeing Luo Tan’s cold expression, Mu Zhian continued, “Actually, that servant sister is quite kind. Perhaps she was worried that it would be inappropriate for a boy like me to enter the hall while you were bathing, so she had me wait outside. She was only thinking of you, Your Majesty. Please don’t blame her.”

Luo Tan’s voice was cold and sharp. “You’re my important guest. If I can’t even control my own servants and let them disrespect their master, you wouldn’t feel safe staying in Yu State with me, would you?”

Before she could continue, a pair of arms wrapped around her waist. The Empress of Yu State’s eyes flickered, and she was about to speak, but the boy’s voice echoed through the hall first.

“Can I hold you like this for a while? I won’t do anything,” Mu Zhian whispered.

“Just holding you like this makes me feel safe.”

If it were the older, handsome Mu Zhian doing this, it might seem contrived.

But with his current frail, youthful appearance, it was completely different.

As she felt his warmth, a ripple of emotion stirred within Luo Tan’s usually calm heart.

She looked down at the boy, gently stroking his soft hair. “As you wish. I’ll have someone take you to your guest room later.”

“Also… Mmm~”

Luo Tan’s body suddenly trembled, and she was about to say something, but noticing his restless hands, her eyes became hazy, and she glared at him playfully.

For the Innate Celestial Furnace and the Innate Celestial Furnace to achieve the best dual cultivation results, a certain pill was needed. That was why she had stopped him before.

But come to think of it, it didn’t really matter.

As long as they didn’t go all the way…

In other words, it was fine as long as they stopped before the final step.

The Three-Tailed Fox body… If he could evolve into a Nine-Tailed Fox with the Supreme Clarity Pill, he would be the first male Nine-Tailed Fox cultivator in the history of the Nine Provinces.

It was said that the Nine-Tailed Fox could charm all beings. She wondered if a male Nine-Tailed Fox could do the same…

Luo Tan leaned against the boy, crossing her legs and dangling her white boots, a meaningful look in her eyes as she gazed at Mu Zhian.

…

The black silk stockings made in Yu State feel quite nice…

After a period of… intimate interaction with Luo Tan in the hall, Mu Zhian, admiring the texture of the black silk, followed a servant to his guest quarters, still thinking about what had just transpired.

He entered a pavilion and saw his maid and Yao Meng waiting for him.

“How did it go?” Yao Meng asked.

Mu Zhian nodded slightly. “The Pill Emperor has confirmed that I do have the Three-Tailed Fox bloodline, but she said whether I can evolve through the Supreme Clarity Pill, and whether I can reach the Nine-Tailed level, is still unknown.”

“The Supreme Clarity Pill can enhance your demon cultivator constitution, but whether you can reach its peak depends on you.”

Yao Meng paused, looking at the boy with a smile. “But even if you can’t become a Nine-Tailed Fox, it’s enough to restore you to your original form and even freely switch between forms.”

Sensing the anticipation and excitement in the Jade Empress’s eyes, Wei Mengrou couldn’t help but pout disdainfully.

She didn’t understand why these people were so fond of Young Master’s current form… Although it was novel, it was a bit too much.

“What’s wrong, Mengrou?”

Noticing the maid’s disdainful look, Mu Zhian turned to her, puzzled.

“Nothing,” Wei Mengrou calmly looked away.

But she couldn’t help but recall the night she had taken Young Master back to his room, the feeling of being in control, even dominating him.

Wei Mengrou’s beautiful face flushed slightly, and she lowered her gaze, maintaining her composure, but her thoughts raced.

Young Master was already so charming in his current state. If he refined the Supreme Clarity Pill and became a Nine-Tailed Fox… no, even without reaching Nine-Tailed, just evolving his Three-Tailed Fox body further, what would his Innate Celestial Furnace become…?

Despite her disdainful expression, a hint of anticipation arose within her.

…

Three days passed uneventfully.

Deep within the Dao Initial Palace was a vast, open-air area, perpetually enveloped by formations that even Dao Integration experts couldn’t easily penetrate.

Within the formations stood a simple, unassuming bronze cauldron.

The Myriad Transformations Cauldron!

It was the only known cauldron in the Nine Provinces that was close to the Immortal grade. Yao Shan had almost died trying to obtain it.

And it was indeed worth the risk.

After all, an Immortal-grade pill meant the potential creation of a Transcendence Realm Human Emperor.

Luo Tan stood before the Myriad Transformations Cauldron, taking out the ingredients from her storage ring.

Thirteen demon cores, various spirit ores, even incredibly rare Emperor-grade herbs, and a pile of heavenly treasures.

The materials required for a Rank 9 pill were numerous.

An ordinary cultivator might not be able to find even one of these materials in their entire lifetime.

Only Dao Integration experts, after accumulating resources for thousands of years, could gather them all.

But even with all the ingredients, a Rank 9 alchemist was still needed.

Mu Zhian sat in the hall, sipping hot tea and admiring his maid’s beautiful figure, enjoying her disdainful gaze.

“You’re quite lucky. If it weren’t for your connection with the Pill Emperor, no one else in this world could refine the Supreme Clarity Pill,” Wei Mengrou said indifferently.

A Rank 9 pill tribulation was no less than the tribulation for advancing from Soul Transformation to Dao Integration. They couldn’t go near it, lest they be caught in the crossfire.

Only Yao Meng had gone, intending to protect Luo Tan after she refined the Supreme Clarity Pill and help her withstand the tribulation.

Mu Zhian shook his head and chuckled. “What are you saying, Mengrou…? Although it’s partly luck, it’s also because of my own efforts.”

If it weren’t for him needing the Supreme Clarity Pill, Luo Tan wouldn’t necessarily refine it.

Wei Mengrou scoffed, glancing at him. “Your ‘efforts’ refer to sacrificing your body, right?”

Mu Zhian coughed. “You misunderstand me, Mengrou…”

“Heh.”

Wei Mengrou gave him a disdainful look.

She knew her Young Master very well. Although the Jade Empress was domineering, she hadn’t fully grasped Mu Zhian’s character. Was he really visiting Luo Tan’s bedchamber so frequently just because she needed his ‘assistance’ in refining the Supreme Clarity Pill?

Although she hadn’t seen it with her own eyes, she doubted it.

After all, the temptation of the Innate Celestial Furnace was difficult to resist, even for a Dao Integration expert…

Rumble!

A deafening roar, as if shattering the sky, echoed through the air.

Mu Zhian looked up towards the source of the tribulation. “The Rank 9 pill tribulation has descended.”

“The Jade Empress has ascended to the Transcendence Realm. With her protecting the Pill Emperor, there won’t be any problems. Don’t worry,” Wei Mengrou said.

Mu Zhian hummed in response, then looked at Wei Mengrou with a complex expression.

“Mengrou, if I refine the Supreme Clarity Pill, will it react with my Innate Celestial Furnace…?”

His Innate Celestial Furnace’s aura was usually concealed by the talisman given by the Spiritual Dragon.

But the Nine-Tailed Fox could charm all beings, an ability similar to the ‘charm’ of the Innate Celestial Furnace.

The Innate Celestial Furnace naturally attracted the affection of female cultivators. If it absorbed the effects of the Supreme Clarity Pill…

“You can choose not to refine the Supreme Clarity Pill,” Wei Mengrou said.

“The Jade Empress can restore you after she masters the Dao of Time.”

Mu Zhian shook his head. “A demon cultivator’s constitution is inherently stronger than that of Eastern Continent cultivators. If I can become a Nine-Tailed Fox, I’ll become stronger. It’s not just about returning to my original form.”

“Besides…”

He looked up at the celestial maiden who had just appeared at the doorway and the seven-colored pill floating before Luo Tan. He smiled. “Since the Supreme Clarity Pill is ready, why wouldn’t I refine it?”

“What are you two chatting about so happily?”

The Empress of Yu State, dressed in a luxurious white dress, walked over and handed the pill to Mu Zhian.

“Nothing much. Just chatting with Mengrou,” Mu Zhian replied, taking the pill and examining the seven-colored, translucent pill with interest. “So this is the Supreme Clarity Pill?”

“Is there anything I should be aware of after consuming it?” he asked, looking up at Luo Tan.

“Just like any other pill, refine it within your cauldron,” Luo Tan said with a smile, then couldn’t help but glance at the boy a few more times.

Although she knew Mu Zhian had the Three-Tailed Fox bloodline, the thought of him potentially awakening the ‘natural charm’ constitution after refining the Supreme Clarity Pill… made her feel strangely excited.

It was… irresistible.

After all, a Nine-Tailed Fox could see through a person’s weaknesses. If this ability was used for… seduction… Luo Tan’s eyes flickered, maintaining her usual elegant demeanor.

“I’ll protect you here. Focus on refining the Supreme Clarity Pill.”

Yao Meng looked at him gently.

Mu Zhian nodded slightly, walked into the hall, sat cross-legged within a pre-arranged formation, took out the Supreme Clarity Pill, and swallowed it.

Time passed slowly, and the two powerful beings waited patiently outside the hall.

“Jade Empress, do you think he can fully absorb the Supreme Clarity Pill’s effects?” Luo Tan suddenly asked.

“I don’t know. Shang Yanfei said he could potentially become a Nine-Tailed Fox.”

Yao Meng looked up at the darkening sky, anticipation rising in her heart.

In the past, the Nine-Tailed Fox had commanded great respect in the Nine Provinces, with countless demon cultivators bowing before it.

But the Fox Clan had gradually declined.

After all, reaching the Nine-Tailed level wasn’t just about hard work.

It had been a long time since a Nine-Tailed Fox had appeared in the Nine Provinces. Even the Demon Realm must be watching.

If he could truly become a Nine-Tailed Fox, he would be able to freely change his age…

Suddenly, the spirit beasts in the Dao Initial Palace scattered in panic, and a faint pink aura emanated from above the hall.

Demonic qi surged into the sky!

Luo Tan looked towards where Mu Zhian was cultivating, seeing the first illusory fox tail slowly unfurl above the hall. She murmured, “It’s beginning.”

Chapter 408: Innate Celestial Furnace + Innate Celestial Furnace = Mutual Supplementation?

Luo Tan wants to meet me alone…?

Mu Zhian’s first reaction upon hearing Yao Meng’s words was apprehension.

As the Empress of Yu State, who also possessed the Innate Celestial Furnace constitution and was suspected to be compatible with him, Mu Zhian knew what she wanted.

However, he hadn’t expected her to ask Yao Meng to convey this request.

That woman is quite bold…

Mu Zhian calmly said, “What do you think?”

He decided to pass the question to Yao Meng and gauge her reaction first…

Young Master Mu’s vigilance was at its peak.

“The Supreme Clarity Pill involves the secrets of demon cultivator evolution, so it’s natural for Luo Tan to be cautious and want to confirm whether you truly have the Three-Tailed Fox bloodline before refining it,” Yao Meng said with a smile.

She had suspected Luo Tan’s motives, but the Pill Emperor of Yu State held a high position. Even if she knew that Mu Zhian was an Innate Celestial Furnace, it shouldn’t matter.

Since achieving Dao Integration, Luo Tan had seen others with the Innate Celestial Furnace constitution before, but she had never shown any interest.

As for his appearance and the supplementary abilities of the Innate Celestial Furnace, Luo Tan didn’t need them.

After all, the Pill Emperor was a Dao Integration expert, at the pinnacle of cultivation.

Ascending further required the perfect combination of timing, location, and people… And the most important factor was ‘people.’

However, Luo Tan couldn’t possibly know that Mu Zhian’s Innate Celestial Furnace held the potential for breaking through to the Transcendence Realm.

Mu Zhian nodded slightly. “If that’s the case, I should indeed visit Yu State and reassure the Pill Emperor.”

“Should we leave now?” Mu Zhian asked.

“Although that’s what I was thinking, it seems you might have to wait a little longer.”

Yao Meng looked up towards Boundless Sea Peak, where a beautiful woman, having just completed her tribulation, was walking towards them on air.

Mu Zhian also looked up and saw Bai Ruoxi, her ample bosom unmatched, her white dress adorned with red plum blossoms fluttering in the cold wind, her hair slightly disheveled, framing her beautiful face.

Three illusory fox tails swayed faintly behind her. At first glance, she looked like the usual gentle and delicate Bai Ruoxi, but a closer look revealed the proud and aloof aura of the Sword Palace Master.

There was an irresistible charm about her.

Is it because of her… size, or is it the charm of the Three-Tailed Fox constitution after reaching Nascent Soul…? Mu Zhian wondered inwardly.

“Mu Lang…”

Sensing his gaze, Bai Ruoxi blushed and called out softly as she approached.

Mu Zhian nodded slightly, a look of satisfaction on his face.

Seeing Bai Ruoxi reach the Nascent Soul realm filled him with a sense of accomplishment.

However, before he could bask in Ruoxi’s gentle presence, she looked at Yao Meng and smiled faintly. “Is the Jade Empress done with her business? I thought you forgot about Mu Lang after ascending.”

A cold chuckle came from the peak.

“Breaking through to Dao Integration was just a side effect.”

Yao Meng’s hair cascaded down her back. She knelt down, placed her hand on Mu Zhian’s face, and said gently, “To me, he’s the only thing that matters.”

Her alluring green eyes gazed at Mu Zhian, his reflection shimmering within them.

“You understand my feelings, don’t you, Mu Lang?”

The last endearment was like a critical hit, striking Bai Ruoxi’s heart and making her ample bosom heave slightly.

She had used this endearment for Mu Zhian in front of other girls before, but she hadn’t expected to be on the receiving end of it.

Bai Ruoxi stared at Mu Zhian, gripping her skirt so tightly that her knuckles turned white.

Among the women Mu Zhian knew, only Yao Meng could rightfully call him ‘Mu Lang.’

After all, Mu Zhian and Yao Meng were married.

Although they hadn’t actually been present at the ceremony, they were still married in the eyes of the world.

A daring thought suddenly crossed Bai Ruoxi’s mind.

Mu Zhian and Yao Meng’s marriage was just a sham.

If she revealed the Projection Stone recording her marriage with Mu Zhian… wouldn’t that easily defeat this nonchalant celestial maiden?

Yes… With proof of their marriage, even this woman wouldn’t be able to say anything!

Seeing the conversation turning dangerous, Mu Zhian quickly said, “Ruoxi, I might have to go to Yu State with Yao Meng in the next few days.”

If he didn’t interrupt, these two might start fighting…

But they probably wouldn’t actually fight. After all, although Sect Master Lin hadn’t left the back mountain, she must be observing everything…

Mu Zhian had always admired and respected the beautiful and mysterious Sect Master.

Bai Ruoxi looked at Mu Zhian, her eyes moist. “Is it because of the Supreme Clarity Pill?”

Mu Zhian nodded. “It’s not just for me, but also for you to reach the Nine-Tailed Fox level.”

In the past, whenever she heard the words ‘Nine-Tailed Fox,’ Bai Ruoxi would blush and glare at Mu Zhian playfully, knowing he was thinking about ‘fox-eared girls.’

But now, her eyes lit up slightly.

According to her understanding of the Nine-Tailed Fox, once she reached that level, she could freely change her age and even display fox-like features…

If Mu Lang could also become a Nine-Tailed Fox…

“Cough… Since it’s for Mu Lang’s recovery and even to enhance his talent and realm, I can’t object.”

Bai Ruoxi took Mu Zhian’s hand, looked down at the handsome boy, and said softly, “Take care of yourself outside, Mu Lang.”

Yao Meng smiled gently. “Don’t worry. I’m with him. There’s no need to worry.”

Bai Ruoxi glanced at Yao Meng and remained silent.

It was precisely because the Jade Empress was with him that she was worried.

This woman might look like a noble and elegant celestial maiden, but she had been quite… unrestrained during their dual cultivation a while ago.

Bai Ruoxi looked at Mu Zhian’s storage ring. “Lingxuan and I have already prepared some of the herbs and spirit ores for the Supreme Clarity Pill. Mu Lang, you must keep that storage ring safe.”

Mu Zhian nodded with a smile. “I know.”

Ye Lingxuan and Bai Ruoxi had each gone to the Forbidden Zone and the Sword Palace to gather ingredients for the Supreme Clarity Pill. Now, with the demon cores Yao Meng had obtained, all the necessary ingredients were ready.

Yao Meng smiled. “If you have anything to say, you can talk later.”

A teleportation formation appeared beneath her feet, and she vanished in a flash of green light, leaving Two Polarities Peak.

Bai Ruoxi’s eyes flickered as she stared at the formation, her excitement about Mu Zhian potentially becoming a Nine-Tailed Fox gradually fading.

The ability to casually open a ‘void’ and even rewrite time was a characteristic of a Transcendence Realm cultivator.

Mu Zhian watched Yao Meng leave. He waited for Wei Mengrou to also step into the formation, then said softly, “Why do you look so unhappy, Ruoxi? Is something bothering you?”

“Is it because Yao Meng ascended?”

Bai Ruoxi shook her head gently. “With the Jade Empress’s ascension, Mu Lang’s safety is guaranteed. I should be happy.”

Despite her words, she still felt a bit aggrieved.

The usually delicate beauty pursed her lips, her eyes moist, making her look even more pitiful.

It made him want to… bully her in bed and watch her bite her lip, her eyes watery, looking at him with a mixture of resentment and grievance…

“Mu Lang, what are you thinking about?” Bai Ruoxi asked, a hint of resentment in her eyes.

Whenever he had that ‘thoughtful’ look, she knew he was up to no good.

I can’t take it anymore. I really want to take Ruoxi back and… bully her… Mu Zhian collected his thoughts, coughing lightly. “Ruoxi, you should be able to switch to your other consciousness now, right?”

“Yes… but why are you asking?”

Bai Ruoxi tilted her head slightly, hesitant.

“I have a unique gift for you,” Mu Zhian whispered.

Bai Ruoxi’s eyes flickered, and she blinked curiously. “What gift?”

Mu Zhian gestured for her to come closer.

Bai Ruoxi knelt down before him, her delicate demeanor evoking pity, but her gentle eyes held a hint of seductive charm.

This was a sign that the demonic energy within her was growing stronger.

Their gazes met, their warm breaths mingling.

Bai Ruoxi shyly turned her head away, her hair swaying gently in the cold wind. “W-What is it?”

Mu Zhian stepped forward, embraced her waist, pressing his chest against hers, and kissed her soft lips.

Bai Ruoxi’s eyes widened in surprise, seemingly not expecting him to kiss her before leaving.

Then—

For a moment, Bai Ruoxi’s mind cleared, and she saw a surge of Heavenly Court spiritual energy flowing from Mu Zhian’s Innate Celestial Furnace into her body.

Then, she faintly saw a magnificent, ancient white throne appear behind Mu Zhian, and a second rune materialized before the throne.

The Second Seat of the Heavenly Court, wielding the ‘Soldier’ rune.

“Do you like it?”

Mu Zhian gently caressed Bai Ruoxi’s beautiful face, smiling. “This seat is my gift to you.”

…

“What did you talk about with her?”

As soon as Mu Zhian stepped into the formation and left Two Polarities Peak, a gentle, melodious voice came from beside him.

Yao Meng looked at him with a smile.

“Nothing much. Ruoxi just reached the Nascent Soul realm. I was worried she would continue cultivating without properly adjusting her body, so I gave her some advice and some pills,” Mu Zhian chuckled.

This wasn’t entirely a lie. He had indeed given Bai Ruoxi some ‘pills,’ after all, the spiritual energy from his Innate Celestial Furnace was much more potent than ordinary pills…

Sensing Yao Meng’s suspicious gaze, Mu Zhian coughed lightly and changed the subject. “After we go to Yu State, I’ll go see the Pill Emperor alone?”

“Yes.”

Yao Meng nodded slightly, smiling. “Your little maid and I will rest in her palace. But don’t be too nervous. I know the Pill Emperor. She won’t harm you. With her status, there’s no need for that. She just wants to confirm whether you truly have the Three-Tailed Fox bloodline.”

She definitely won’t harm me, but I don’t know if she’ll do anything… inappropriate. I don’t mind, but if Yao Meng finds out, I’ll probably be tied up with the World Cleansing Vines and dragged to the dungeon… Mu Zhian’s eyes flickered.

“What’s wrong?” Yao Meng asked, looking at him with a smile.

Mu Zhian snapped back to reality, shaking his head and chuckling. “Nothing. I was just a bit worried about accidentally offending the Pill Emperor…”

“The Pill Emperor has been at the Dao Integration realm for two lifetimes. She’s seen all kinds of people. She won’t fuss over such minor matters with a junior like you. Besides, for my sake, she won’t blame you,” Yao Meng said gently.

Mu Zhian pondered for a moment, then smiled. “I see… Then I’m relieved.”

But there was a hint of something unsaid in his smile.

Was Luo Tan really just curious about his Three-Tailed Fox constitution?

Probably not.

…

The Immortal Dynasty of Yu State was established by Luo Tan after she achieved Dao Integration and rose to fame.

Its enduring power in the Nine Provinces was largely due to the abundance of alchemists in Yu State, especially their Empress, Luo Tan, the only Pill Emperor in the Nine Provinces with the potential to refine immortal pills.

No one wanted to offend an alchemist, especially one nearing the level of refining immortal pills.

Coupled with her ancestral artifact, the Myriad Transformations Cauldron, countless cultivators sought opportunities to curry favor with the Pill Emperor.

However, even Soul Transformation cultivators might not be able to meet her. Most had to go through her maids or their connections to even have a chance.

There were even rumors that if Luo Tan wished, she could use her pills to cultivate two or three Soul Transformation experts, or even a Dao Integration expert.

Even ancient clans with vast resources couldn’t achieve this.

After all, even with resources, they lacked high-level alchemists like Luo Tan, who could refine perfect pills without much loss of potency.

Being the Pill Emperor, the ruler of Yu State, the founder of the Immortal Dynasty, and even providing life-extending pills to ordinary mortals every year, the Pill Emperor’s name was known and praised throughout Yu State.

Her Innate Celestial Furnace constitution, on the other hand, was often overlooked.

It wasn’t that no one had any… bold thoughts about her, such as fantasizing about being chosen by the beautiful Empress…

To be able to dual cultivate with such a magnificent woman, even dying immediately afterward would be worth it.

But unfortunately, this was just a fantasy. After all, the Empress of the Immortal Dynasty didn’t lack any resources and had seen countless geniuses. Appearance, talent, even family background, meant nothing to her.

Moreover, even meeting her was incredibly difficult.

Time passed quickly, and two days went by.

It wouldn’t take long for a Transcendence Realm Human Emperor to reach Yu State, but they had to take care of Mu Zhian, so their journey was naturally longer.

However, Mu Zhian, sitting in the phoenix carriage pulled by nine Dragon Sparrows, with a beauty in his arms, was quite relaxed.

Two days later, on a sunny afternoon, deep within the Dao Initial Palace, a servant rushed in and bowed. “Your Majesty, the Jade Empress has arrived at the palace. Mu Zhian is waiting outside.”

The elegant Empress on the throne, dressed in a luxurious white dress, looked up, her eyes bright. “He’s finally here?”

“Invite him in.”

She paused, as if remembering something, crossed her black silk-clad legs, and smiled faintly.

“No, take him to my bedchamber.”

“This isn’t a suitable place to talk.”

Chapter 407: Jade Empress: I Actually Have to Hand Mu Lang Over to Other Women Myself?

What kind of power was the Lan family of the Eastern Continent?

Most families in the Eastern Continent treated this behemoth with utmost respect, even flattery.

The Eastern Continent was so vast that ordinary cultivators might not be able to traverse it in several years. Its rich history had naturally given rise to many ancient clans.

But among them, ancient clans that had produced Dao Integration experts were incredibly rare.

The Lan family’s ancestors had produced a Dao Integration expert! Even now, their ancestral artifact, the Ascension Cauldron, was still stored deep within their ancestral land, a deterrent to all.

Besides the Forbidden Zone, the Two Polarities Sect, and the now-prosperous Jade Pool Holy Land, the Lan family was the most powerful ancient clan in the Eastern Continent.

The larger the power, the deeper its foundation. In the past, there had been newly established families in the Eastern Continent that rose to prominence, even threatening the status of ancient clans.

But compared to those ancient clans with millennia or even tens of thousands of years of history, they still fell short.

On the surface, their strengths might appear similar, but their foundations were vastly different.

The Lan family’s prominent position in the Eastern Continent was largely due to the ‘foundation’ left by their ancestors.

Ancestral artifacts, Emperor-grade herbs, even Heaven-grade cultivation techniques, and so on.

Therefore, this powerful clan held an ancestral worship ceremony every four years to commemorate their deceased ancestor.

The next Lan family ancestral worship ceremony was less than two months away.

Lan Wu had personally invited the Lan sisters to the Two Polarities Sect precisely because of this ceremony, hoping they would take this opportunity to return to the family.

However, the two sisters were stubborn and unwilling to comply.

…

Currently, on a soft, comfortable bed, Lan Feiying, dressed in a fiery red dress, leaned against the headboard, a few strands of hair clinging to her fair neck. Compared to her usual girlish aura, she now exuded a more mature charm.

Her older sister sat beside her, dressed in a thin white robe, her long, shapely legs revealed beneath her thigh-length undergarments. The robe strained against her ample bosom, showcasing her alluring figure.

Mu Zhian lay on Lan Mulian’s legs, glancing left and right, then at the invitation in his hand, lost in thought.

“So, Lan Wu is truly sincere towards you? He wants you to return to the Lan family and be under their protection in the Nine Provinces…”

“Lan Wu might be sincere, but the Lan family isn’t united. Even if Feiying and I return, it’s not just up to Lan Wu,” Lan Mulian said coldly.

Mu Zhian pondered for a moment, toying with Senior Sister’s cool hand. “Are you worried that they’ll force you to stay if you go back?”

Lan Feiying stroked Mu Zhian’s hair. “The Two Polarities Sect is indeed a protective talisman for its disciples outside, but our matters with the Lan family are a family affair. If we go back, unless our lives are in danger, the Two Polarities Sect won’t interfere.”

Mu Zhian was silent.

She was right. After all, the Lan Clan Leader was their father. Any issues within the Lan family were considered family matters.

“So, I’ll go to the Lan family with you in two months. I can look after you if anything happens,” Mu Zhian said.

Lan Mulian frowned slightly, shaking her head. “In your current state, just leaving Two Polarities Peak will cause a commotion.”

“I’ll be back to my original form before then,” Mu Zhian said.

Lan Mulian’s eyes flickered as she looked at the handsome boy lying on her legs, remaining silent.

So, Junior Brother will only remain in this cute form for a short time…

Just as Lan Mulian was about to speak, her sister hooked Mu Zhian’s waist with her foot and smiled. “That’s why we should cherish this time. It won’t last.”

Lan Mulian’s expression turned cold. “He’s already exhausted from cultivating today. Let him meditate and rest.”

“That depends on whether this child wants to rest or not~” Lan Feiying sat up, leaning against Mu Zhian’s shoulder, and looked at her sister with a seductive smile. “If Sister is worried about him, just watch us.”

As she spoke, under her sister’s cold gaze, she leaned closer to Mu Zhian’s ear and whispered, “Sister is right, isn’t she?”

I never realized how shameless this younger sister could be… Lan Mulian blushed and turned her head away, about to get out of bed.

However, Mu Zhian quickly grabbed her hand, looking up at her with an innocent smile. “I’m worried about Senior Sister going out so late. Just stay here and cultivate.”

“Can I really cultivate peacefully here?”

Lan Mulian glared at him playfully.

But looking at her sister on the bed and feeling Mu Zhian’s heated gaze, she blushed and turned her head away shyly.

Under the dim candlelight, the cold beauty looked shy and inviting, her lips slightly parted, her long eyelashes fluttering nervously.

Her breathtaking beauty and her uncharacteristic shyness were incredibly captivating. Mu Zhian pulled her onto the bed, then looked at Lan Feiying, her face also flushed, her eyes moist and seductive.

He leaned down and kissed her soft lips.

The candlelight flickered and was extinguished, and the curtains were drawn, plunging the room into darkness.

…

The next morning.

Mu Zhian woke up refreshed, got dressed, and left the room, stretching languidly in the courtyard.

“You seem to have enjoyed yourself last night. You’re even walking unsteadily today.”

A cold voice, as if freezing the air, came from behind him. Someone was watching him from the shadows.

Mu Zhian turned around and saw his maid standing there in a yellow dress, her ample bosom proudly displayed, looking down at him with a condescending gaze, like one would look at an insect.

“Good morning, Mengrou,” Mu Zhian smiled faintly.

He paused, then added, “I’m sorry for making you worry these past few days.”

Wei Mengrou scoffed. “I’m just your maid. I don’t deserve your apology.”

Clearly, Mengrou was angry, and he couldn’t appease her easily.

Although she defined herself as a maid and had previously watched him with other girls with a cold, even disdainful, gaze… now that their relationship was confirmed, although she still insisted on being his maid, she couldn’t help but feel jealous.

Mu Zhian tried to approach Wei Mengrou, embracing her waist from behind.

Wei Mengrou’s body stiffened as she felt his warmth.

She glanced at him, then turned her head away. “Please behave yourself, Young Master. Aren’t you afraid of being seen?”

I’m the Lord of the Heavenly Court. I single-handedly defeated two Dao Integration experts. Why would I be afraid of them…? Mu Zhian said softly, “I know you’re angry, Mengrou, but my relationships with them have always been ambiguous… You should know that.”

Wei Mengrou pouted, refusing to speak.

She had always been by his side and had seen him visit Lan Feiying at the Morning Dawn Auction House countless times. She naturally knew about his relationship with the Lan sisters.

But the thought of being ignored since arriving at Two Polarities Peak made her feel uncomfortable.

She had wished he would forget about her and stop bothering her.

But if he truly forgot, she would feel uneasy.

“Although I have many girls around me, you’re the only maid I have, Mengrou. I’ve been wanting to see you, but as you can see, I’ve been quite busy…”

Mu Zhian’s voice was gentle and sincere.

This wasn’t an excuse. He was truly busy…

The fish in his pond were growing up, and he had to be careful not to end up in the little room.

Wei Mengrou glanced at the boy behind her disdainfully. “Besides me, no one wants to be your maid.”

But after hearing his words, her displeasure subsided, and her expression softened.

That’s true.

Young Master can have many Dao Companions, but only one maid. She had always been by his side and knew his character better than anyone except his parents.

Wei Mengrou looked at his hands around her waist, subconsciously fiddling with her dress, then placed her hand on his. “When will your body recover?”

Hearing this, Mu Zhian breathed a sigh of relief.

“If nothing unexpected happens, Yao Meng should be coming for me in a few days. We’ll go to Yu State, and after I consume the Supreme Clarity Pill, I should return to my original age.”

He wasn’t entirely sure if the pill would work, but it was worth a try.

Wei Mengrou stared at him. “I’m going with you.”

Mu Zhian pondered for a moment, then nodded.

Wei Mengrou had immense luck from two Chosen Ones, suppressing her misfortune, but he didn’t know if her misfortune would return if she left him for too long.

A few days was fine, but any longer… might not be enough.

Wei Mengrou nodded in satisfaction, then blushed and glanced at him with a look of disdain.

“You’re still thinking about that in your current state?”

Mu Zhian said helplessly, “It’s just a physiological reaction…”

Wei Mengrou casually glanced around.

No one was in sight on Two Polarities Peak.

She took Mu Zhian’s hand and, noticing his hesitant gaze, leaned closer, teasing him playfully. “You must be tired from cultivating yesterday, Young Master.”

She gently caressed his face. “Sister will take you back to your room to rest~”

…

Half a month passed uneventfully.

Mu Zhian spent an hour each day cultivating in the Heavenly Court and the rest helping the ‘protagonists’ cultivate.

“Ruoxi and the others should reach the Nascent Soul realm soon. My efforts haven’t been in vain…”

“I just don’t know if they’ll still be so gentle after their other consciousnesses awaken…”

Mu Zhian stood at the peak of Two Polarities Peak, looking down at the quiet mountain, a hint of worry in his eyes.

After reaching the Nascent Soul realm, Gong Lianyue and the Primordial Witch wouldn’t need to sleep anymore.

The Primordial Witch was fine. His first wife was friendly.

But Gong Lianyue was different… The Sword Palace Master was arrogant.

But he wasn’t too worried. The Heart-Binding Lock was Bai Ruoxi’s Core Formation realm weapon.

Dark clouds gathered in the distance, swirling like a vortex, lightning flashing within.

Mu Zhian looked up. It was Boundless Sea Peak.

“Ruoxi is the first to reach Nascent Soul. My hard work paid off…”

Mu Zhian looked at the blue-veined ‘snow mountain’ and the woman in white on its peak.

He wondered where Yao Meng was… Although his body was quite strong at this age, it was inconvenient to… carry a beauty.

Mu Zhian looked at the vast Ninefold Lightning Tribulation above Boundless Sea Peak.

It had been half a month since Yao Meng left. He wasn’t worried about her safety, but he was curious about her whereabouts.

Fortunately, he had Senior Sister Lan and Feiying to keep him company…

But Feiying had also reached the threshold of Nascent Soul and was now in secluded cultivation on Heavenly Secrets Peak.

“Now that Lingxuan and Qian’er are on Dao Peak, Feiying is at Heavenly Secrets Peak, and Senior Sister is also cultivating… the only one left is Mengrou.”

Mu Zhian looked at the woman in yellow beside him.

Wei Mengrou stood there, her yellow dress swaying in the wind, revealing her fair shoulders and delicate collarbone, a ribbon accentuating her ample bosom, her long legs pressed together, her feet encased in delicate shoes.

Compared to her usual coldness, she now exuded a mature charm.

Thanks to Mu Zhian’s efforts.

Wei Mengrou glanced at him. “I’m just waiting for the Jade Empress. Didn’t you say she would come and take you to Yu State? It’s been half a month.”

Mengrou is being tsundere again… Mu Zhian sighed. “Maybe Yao Meng forgot about me.”

Wei Mengrou pouted, ignoring him.

Anyone could forget Mu Zhian, but not Yao Meng.

She hadn’t returned, probably because she was preparing the Supreme Clarity Pill.

He wondered why she was so insistent on it…

Mu Zhian chuckled. “Speaking of which, Mengrou, your realm was the highest among us. Haven’t you reached Nascent Soul yet?”

Wei Mengrou looked at him as if he were an idiot. “You’re probably the only one who hasn’t.”

Mu Zhian was stunned. “You mean you’ve already reached Nascent Soul? But I haven’t seen your tribulation…”

“I don’t need a tribulation,” Wei Mengrou said indifferently.

Mu Zhian hesitated, then realized something.

Wei Mengrou wasn’t bound by the rules of heaven and earth.

So, the only ones left are Qian’er and me.

But Qian’er is still young…

I have to work harder…

Mu Zhian, you can’t always rely on others!

As he thought this, the image of the Jade Empress flashed through his mind.

If he could absorb the Supreme Clarity Pill, he might not reach Nascent Soul, but he could at least advance a few ranks…

He wondered where Yao Meng was…

Mu Zhian looked up at the woman in white on Boundless Sea Peak and the alluring figure of a nine-tailed fox behind her.

Ordinary people couldn’t see it, but Mu Zhian could.

If Ruoxi evolved into a Nine-Tailed Fox, there would be even more… possibilities…

His desire for the Supreme Clarity Pill intensified.

Bai Ruoxi was bathed in the light of her tribulation, her black and white dress swirling, a faint pink light enveloping her.

She seemed to sense his gaze and glanced over. Bai Ruoxi chuckled softly, nine fox tails swaying behind her, captivating and alluring.

Mu Zhian’s mind reeled, his gaze fixed on Bai Ruoxi.

“A smile that can topple nations. If she refines the Supreme Clarity Pill, she might steal your heart.”

A clear light enveloped Mu Zhian, and a celestial melody dispelled the charm.

Mu Zhian turned his head. “Yao Meng? You’re finally back.”

Yao Meng landed beside Mu Zhian and looked down at him, smiling. “If I hadn’t come, you might have become what Gong Lianyue desires.”

Mu Zhian said helplessly, “I’m not that kind of person… Ruoxi is only a Three-Tailed Fox.”

“Oh?”

Yao Meng glanced at the maid beside him and blinked playfully. “Then why has your Innate Celestial Furnace lost so much spiritual energy?”

“Did you… handle it yourself?”

It’s been a long time since I’ve… taken care of myself… Mu Zhian coughed. “Where have you been? I thought you were in trouble.”

Yao Meng opened her palm, revealing thirteen demon cores.

She smiled. “Luo Tan agreed to provide the other ingredients. I only needed to find the demon cores.”

“The First Seat of the Demon Realm sent them to me within a week.”

Mu Zhian remembered the maid who served the Demon Empress.

“When are we leaving?” Mu Zhian asked.

“We can leave for Yu State now.”

Yao Meng’s smile faded slightly, and she looked at Mu Zhian with a complex expression.

“But Luo Tan said she wants to meet you alone.”

Chapter 406: Only Children Have to Choose

Mu Zhian always considered himself a reserved and composed man, so he usually avoided expressing his affection for one girl in front of another.

He had always adhered to this principle, but this time was different.

He wasn’t sure if Senior Sister knew he had been hiding in the room, but he didn’t want to gamble… It was better to be upfront now than risk being caught later.

His relationship with the Lan sisters would be revealed sooner or later. Rather than having them fight over him, Mu Zhian decided to gamble tonight.

After all, if they fought, he would probably be the one torn apart…

So, he decided to gamble on the sisters’ bond, betting that even if he revealed everything tonight, they wouldn’t lock him up in the dungeon…

Of course, if he lost the bet, he could only rely on Senior Ye or his maid to save him…

Lan Mulian glanced at the hand around her waist, then at the boy holding her sister’s hand, a cold glint in her eyes. “Junior Brother, you’re quite bold. What do you mean by this?”

I admit there’s an element of gambling, but my feelings for you are genuine… Mu Zhian coughed lightly. “I know what this means. I’ll take responsibility for my actions…”

He looked at the beautiful sisters.

Although both were wearing Senior Sister’s white dress, their temperaments were completely different.

On the surface, Lan Mulian still appeared cold and aloof, her beautiful face expressionless, her aura icy.

An ordinary person would be intimidated.

But a closer look revealed a hint of panic beneath her cold demeanor and a blush on her cheeks.

Her eyes flickered, adding a touch of allure to her usually cold appearance.

Lan Feiying, on the other hand, sat with her legs crossed, her demeanor languid and seductive, looking at Mu Zhian playfully.

“I thought you were planning to hide until Sister left,” she said with a smile.

Mu Zhian looked at the alluring beauty, remembering their time together in Tianxuan City, and shook his head helplessly. “So you didn’t think we could fool Senior Sister either?”

He had almost been lost in Lan Feiying’s gentle embrace, forgetting to think rationally.

Senior Sister was the number one Nascent Soul genius in the Nine Provinces. Her talent was undeniable.

How could such an intelligent woman not notice something amiss in the room?

Lan Feiying chuckled softly. “I didn’t think we could fool Sister, but I sincerely wanted to help you hide.”

“After all…”

She looked at the woman in white, who seemed uncomfortable with the atmosphere in the room, and smiled. “If Sister knew you and I were intimate in her room, she would be angry.”

Mu Zhian chuckled. “If you really wanted to help me, Feiying, you wouldn’t be wearing Senior Sister’s clothes and pretending to be her.”

Lan Feiying scoffed, playing with a strand of hair. “Although Sister and I look alike, we’re still different. Can’t you tell us apart?”

This topic was dangerous. If they continued, it might become ‘If you truly loved us, how could you not tell us apart?’…

“Of course I can tell you apart. It was just difficult under the circumstances,” Mu Zhian said, then changed the subject. “Besides, Feiying, you’re good at disguises. You’ve fooled me before in Tianxuan City.”

“In a sense, I’m so vigilant now partly because of your… training.”

Lan Feiying’s heart stirred. She wanted to say, You turned from an innocent boy into a playboy, and now you’re a master of managing a harem… What does that have to do with me?

But she remembered when they were still at the Morning Dawn Auction House, Mu Zhian often visited her under the pretext of auctioning items. After a few times, she naturally sensed his intentions and teased him, saying he was too young and immature.

*T/N: Morning Dawn Auction House is the same as Morning Glory Chamber of Commerce*

In the following years, Mu Zhian seemed to realize the Mu family’s power and influence in Tianxuan City and gradually became a playboy, pursuing many girls. When he saw her at the auction house, he was no longer as ‘passive’ as before.

Perhaps to Mu Zhian at that time, being mature and composed meant being able to handle any woman with ease.

“It’s quite a coincidence that you received the paper crane Sister casually threw away in Tianxuan City,” Lan Feiying said with a sigh.

I think it’s fate. The older sister I liked in Tianxuan City and my ‘online friend’ are actually sisters… Mu Zhian complained inwardly.

Lan Mulian looked at Mu Zhian, a strange glint in her eyes. “So you mistook Feiying for me?”

Mu Zhian said helplessly, “Feiying is dressed exactly like you, Senior Sister. It’s not strange that I mistook her for you.”

“And the room was dark.”

“Although you mistook me for Sister… what do you mean by this now?”

Lan Feiying’s words pulled Lan Mulian back to reality.

Lan Mulian immediately reacted, glancing at Mu Zhian’s hand holding Lan Feiying’s. A hint of shyness flickered in her cold eyes.

Currently, on the soft bed, there were two women and one man.

And Lan Mulian was one of the women…

Two sisters being intimate with the same man… If it were the past Lan Mulian, she would have looked at them with disdain and turned away, expressing her contempt for this man in her heart.

After all, she was the only Nascent Soul genius in the Nine Provinces, the champion of the Ascension Ceremony, with countless admirers in the Eastern Continent. How could she have imagined being in the same room with Feiying, intimate with the same boy…

Lan Mulian gently pushed Mu Zhian’s hand away, pursed her lips, and said in a calm, cold voice, “Junior Brother, please behave yourself.”

Mu Zhian looked at her silently.

He knew she was incredibly proud. Even now, with a charming blush on her icy face, she maintained her composure and her pride.

Although Mu Zhian was a veteran in the garden of love, he was still slightly intimidated by this cold and noble woman’s aloof attitude.

But he couldn’t help but glance at Lan Mulian again, his gaze lingering on her ample bosom straining against her dress.

A surge of ‘courage’ filled his heart.

He took Lan Mulian’s cool hand, which was resting on her knee.

Her hand was smooth and soft, cool to the touch, and Mu Zhian could feel her body tremble slightly as he held it.

“Who are you choosing, Junior Brother?”

Lan Mulian turned her head away, a strand of hair falling across her beautiful face.

“I said before, I don’t want to choose Senior Sister or Feiying,” Mu Zhian said seriously.

Lan Feiying suddenly said softly, “Do you know about Sister’s and my past?”

Mu Zhian hesitated, then nodded silently.

He had heard about their father, partly from conversations with Senior Sister and partly from his interaction with Lan Wu.

For the sake of the Clan Leader position, Lan Mulian’s father had sent their mother away, and he never saw her again, not even on her deathbed. Even now, their mother’s memorial tablet couldn’t be placed in the Lan family’s ancestral hall, as it wasn’t recognized by the elders.

Naturally, the two sisters hated unfaithful men.

But what does an unfaithful man have to do with me…?

“I know what you’re trying to say, Feiying, but I’m just… affectionate. And by chance, I happen to like both you and Senior Sister,” Mu Zhian sighed, defending himself.

Don’t lump me together with those unfaithful men. I’m just affectionate. What’s wrong with liking two sisters at the same time?

He hadn’t done anything to hurt the girls around him.

On the contrary, he had always contributed the spiritual energy from his Innate Celestial Furnace and even offered his treasures to his Dao Companions… so much so that his Innate Celestial Furnace was never full…

Before his cauldron was even full, it was almost empty again.

As if remembering some ‘unpleasant’ memories, Mu Zhian subconsciously rubbed his waist.

A warm fire burned in the room.

Lan Mulian, in her white dress, glanced at Mu Zhian coldly. “You like any beautiful woman. It’s not just Feiying and me.”

Mu Zhian shook his head helplessly. “The Nine Provinces are vast, and there are many beautiful women, but I don’t like everyone… It’s all just a coincidence. Did you think I knew you and Feiying were sisters when I was exchanging letters with you?”

Lan Mulian fell silent.

He was right. She couldn’t argue with that.

Mu Zhian sighed softly. “I didn’t even know Feiying was from the Lan family. In fact, I was the one being played by you two.”

Lan Mulian glanced at the handsome boy. “We didn’t intend to hide it from you. We just couldn’t find the right opportunity.”

You were clearly just teasing me… Mu Zhian complained inwardly.

Then, he suddenly asked, “Don’t you believe me, Senior Sister?”

Lan Mulian was stunned, not understanding.

“Both you and Feiying are people I cherish. So, regardless of whether Senior Sister agrees or not, I’ll go to the Lan family with you,” Mu Zhian said.

Lan Feiying frowned slightly. “This trip to the Lan family isn’t for fun. If you come with us, you might be targeted.”

Their relationship with the Lan family was already delicate. They might be going there because of their mother, but if Mu Zhian went with them, he might be viewed differently by the other Lan family members.

After all, Mu Zhian already had a Dao Companion, and now he was with both of them… It would inevitably cause gossip.

Mu Zhian shook his head, smiling. “I’m open and honest. I don’t mind if people gossip or target me. I’m more worried about you two going back alone.”

“You’re only at the Core Formation realm. It won’t make much difference if you come with us,” Lan Mulian said coldly.

Although she sounded like she was looking down on his cultivation, she was actually worried about his safety.

Mu Zhian chuckled. “Senior Sister, have you forgotten that you were just… suppressed by a Core Formation cultivator a few days ago?”

That’s different. I was suppressed because… Lan Mulian glared at Mu Zhian, a complex look in her eyes.

She knew she should be angry, scolding him for his blatant infidelity and for shamelessly embracing both of them.

But looking at Mu Zhian’s face, she couldn’t bring herself to be angry.

And Feiying didn’t seem angry at all…

Lan Mulian looked at the alluring woman beside Mu Zhian. “Don’t you mind?”

“I’ve known him for a long time. I’m aware of his… nature. If it were another woman here tonight, I would mind.”

Lan Feiying looked at her cold, beautiful sister and smiled charmingly. “But if it’s Sister… When we were young, we even shared clothes. Why can’t we share a man?”

Feiying truly understands me… Mu Zhian was touched.

“However,”

Just as he was about to speak, Lan Feiying continued, “Your body hasn’t fully recovered yet. You should stay at Two Polarities Peak. The Lan family’s matters are complicated. You don’t need to get involved.”

Lan Mulian looked at her sister with a complex expression, then hummed in agreement. “Feiying and I will handle this ourselves. You should stay at Two Polarities Peak and recover.”

Then, she suddenly chuckled softly. “There are other women at Two Polarities Peak now. You can be intimate with them while Feiying and I are away—”

Lan Mulian suddenly stopped as Mu Zhian gently pushed her onto the bed. At the same time, another alluring beauty joined them.

Mu Zhian looked at the two beauties on the bed, their contrasting temperaments creating a captivating scene. The younger sister’s eyes were alluring and seductive, while the older sister’s face was cold and aloof, but a hint of shyness flickered in her eyes.

“I’m also considered a future son-in-law of the Lan family. This is our matter, so we should deal with it together,” Mu Zhian said softly.

As for Senior Sister saying that the Lan family’s matters were complicated… From Qi Condensation to Transcendence, what kind of situations hadn’t he, Mu Zhian, seen?

He could even single-handedly suppress the only Transcendence Realm cultivator in the Nine Provinces.

The Lan family was indeed a powerful ancient clan in the Eastern Continent, but so what?

He had been locked up in a dungeon before… Although that was just Yao Meng’s playful prank, he wasn’t afraid of even a Transcendence Realm expert, let alone the Lan family.

Lan Feiying’s eyes were moist as she bit her lip, staring at Mu Zhian. She suddenly giggled. “You’re quite confident, aren’t you?”

Mu Zhian leaned down and kissed his younger sister on the lips, his hand caressing his older sister’s cold face. He whispered,

“The best is yet to come.”

Chapter 405: Sisters in Embrace 

I should have known. With Senior Sister’s reserved and aloof personality, how could she be so proactive tonight…? Especially after seeing me being intimate with Yao Meng the night before last… right beside her while she was sleeping!

It’s because she’s not Senior Sister at all. Senior Sister’s beauty mark isn’t on the right side, but on the left.

At that moment, Mu Zhian looked at the woman in white on the bed, a playful smile in her eyes, and realized the truth.

It wasn’t that he couldn’t tell the two sisters apart, but who would have thought that the younger sister would not only wear her older sister’s clothes while she was away but also be in her sister’s room with the man her sister liked…

Mu Zhian wanted to bury his face in his hands. He couldn’t bear to look.

“Feiying, I’m starting to suspect you’re working for the Heavenly Dao.”

Mu Zhian lowered his voice, giving the alluring woman a speechless look.

Lan Feiying narrowed her eyes, a playful smile on her lips. “In a sense, I am indeed chosen by the Heavenly Dao. You’re not wrong.”

“And if you don’t want to be discovered by Sister, you better take this talisman.”

She took out a talisman emitting a dark aura.

“This is an item I received from completing a system mission. It can conceal your aura.”

“Sister has the Sacred Heavenly Body. She can see through any concealment around her, but she won’t suspect me, and she won’t scan my body with her consciousness.”

Lan Feiying looked at him with a playful smile. “Of course, whether you want to hide or not is up to you.”

Creak.

As they spoke, the sound of a door opening came from outside.

Mu Zhian gritted his teeth and grabbed the black talisman. His aura vanished instantly.

A faint smile flickered in Lan Feiying’s eyes. Her moon-white dress couldn’t conceal her alluring figure, and her ample bosom strained against the thin fabric.

She gently wrapped her arms around Mu Zhian’s neck, pulling him into her embrace.

A warm, fragrant aura enveloped him, but Mu Zhian couldn’t enjoy it at all.

This woman, I’ll have to teach her a lesson sooner or later!

If Senior Sister catches us, she’ll probably use the teleportation talisman to send me to the dungeon…

Lan Feiying extinguished the candle with a flick of her finger.

The door opened silently, revealing a cold beauty in a moon-white dress and a green-embroidered cloak. Although her attire didn’t reveal much skin, she exuded an alluring aura.

Lan Mulian scanned the room, then looked at her younger sister, who was lying on her bed, even wearing her clothes.

Then, her cold, melodious voice echoed through the room. “Why are you in my room today?”

Lan Feiying, lying on her side in bed, played with a strand of hair, smiling casually. “Can’t I just come and chat with Sister?”

The cold beauty glanced at her sister, then looked at her attire strangely.

“Chatting is fine, but why are you wearing my clothes?”

The tall, cold beauty took off her cloak and hung it on a rack, her long hair cascading down, accentuating her figure as she walked to the bed and sat down.

If Mu Zhian could see this scene, he would probably sigh: This woman is truly destined for me.

Unlike any other woman Mu Zhian knew, Lan Mulian had perfect proportions, her body not delicate, but athletic and sensual, her skin fair and smooth, firm and toned.

Just one glance was enough to tell that she was a rare beauty.

Lan Mulian looked at her sister with suspicion. “And where are your own clothes?”

Lan Feiying smiled brightly. “I saw your clothes when I came to your room today, Sister. I remembered when we were young, we often swapped clothes, so I thought I’d try it again.”

Lan Mulian was silent for a moment, her usually cold expression softening slightly.

“Back then, Mother had to raise us both alone. Even food and shelter were a problem. We were about the same height, so swapping clothes was like getting a new dress… But why did you suddenly remember this today?”

Lan Feiying said softly, “Lan Wu came to see me a few days ago.”

Lan Wu was the Young Master of the Lan family, the son of the Lan Clan Leader’s second Dao Companion, and the older brother of the Lan sisters.

The Lan Clan Leader’s first Dao Companion hadn’t borne any children, so the position of Young Master fell to Lan Wu.

Not long ago, the Lan Clan Leader had sent Lan Wu to invite his two daughters back to the Lan family for a reunion.

Lan Mulian raised an eyebrow and scoffed. “Ignore him. We’re both at the Two Polarities Sect now. Even if we don’t return to the Lan family, they can’t do anything.”

Lan Feiying remained silent.

“Did you remember the past because of Lan Wu?” Lan Mulian asked.

Lan Feiying nodded slightly, then shook her head. “Not entirely because of him. It was also to remind myself not to forget that Mother raised us alone, and that so-called father didn’t even come to see her on her deathbed.”

Lan Mulian remained silent, looking at the woman on the bed, whose figure and appearance were almost identical to her own, but whose eyes were alluring and seductive.

“So you wore my clothes to remind me not to forget our past?” she asked.

Lan Feiying looked at her sister in the dim light, clearly feeling Mu Zhian’s breath against her ample bosom. She gently stroked his soft hair and smiled faintly. “Yes, but not entirely.”

“I just sometimes think how fortunate Sister is. You’re talented, Master’s disciple, and have a high status. You don’t even have to pursue the person you like. They’ll come chasing after you.”

Lan Mulian raised an eyebrow. “He’ll chase after any beautiful woman. He’s been intimate with you in secret before, hasn’t he?”

Senior Sister is terrifying. She wasn’t even there, but she seems to know everything… Mu Zhian, enveloped in Lan Feiying’s warm embrace, listened to their conversation and complained inwardly.

He knew Lan Mulian was intelligent, but he hadn’t expected her, a ‘homebody’ who rarely left Two Polarities Peak, to know so much.

Lan Feiying narrowed her eyes and smiled. “I only said the person Sister likes will pursue Sister. I didn’t say who…”

“Who is this ‘he’ you’re referring to, Sister?”

Lan Mulian was silent for a moment.

“I remember asking you before, and you said you and he were just senior and junior,” Lan Feiying teased her with a smile.

A blush colored the cold, elegant woman’s face in the dim light. She glanced at her sister. “We are indeed just senior and junior…”

Senior Sister doesn’t even sound confident herself… Mu Zhian complained inwardly.

If the ‘Day of Rest’ arrived and all cultivators in the Nine Provinces were eradicated, Senior Sister’s voice would probably still be echoing through the world: We’re just ordinary senior and junior…

As if reading his mind, Lan Feiying smiled and said, “Is sleeping with your Junior Brother also considered an ordinary senior-junior relationship?”

Lan Mulian was stunned, then looked at her sister with a complex expression. “When did you find out…?”

“I already knew when we were at the Jade Pool. I also know about the Jade Empress being intimate with him in your room.”

Lan Feiying didn’t hide anything, smiling faintly.

“So you do like him, Sister?” she asked again, seeing that Lan Mulian remained silent.

After a moment of silence, Lan Mulian hummed softly in agreement.

Although she knew her sister might have guessed, she still didn’t know how to respond when she heard her say it directly.

She had thought her sister would be angry or disappointed.

Lan Feiying frowned slightly, then said softly, “Even so, Sister, you shouldn’t have done that while his body hasn’t fully recovered… What if there are irreversible consequences?”

“And you might be seen as having a… strange fetish…”

“What nonsense are you talking about?”

Lan Mulian glared at her sister, then her expression softened. “Junior Brother is still Junior Brother. The Dao of Time only reversed his age. I dual cultivated with him… It wasn’t because of any strange fetish.”

Seemingly not wanting to dwell on this topic, Lan Mulian quickly changed the subject. “Are you giving up on him?”

Her eyes dimmed slightly as she glanced at the blanket covering Lan Feiying.

This casual glance made Mu Zhian’s heart skip a beat.

Why do I feel like Senior Sister was looking at me just now? Is it my imagination, or did she really notice…?

Lan Feiying suddenly scoffed. “There’s no reason to give him up just because Sister likes him. That boy will be mine in the future.”

Her voice was filled with confidence.

Lan Mulian opened her mouth, about to speak.

Suddenly, she seemed to sense something and glanced out the window, seeing a paper crane flying towards them from the distance.

She lit the smokeless charcoal in the spacious bedroom, the flames flickering, her white dress swaying in the firelight.

Lan Mulian unfolded the paper crane and scanned its contents, her previously gentle expression turning cold.

“Who wrote this letter that made Sister so angry?” the alluring woman behind her asked with a smile.

The letter fluttered onto the bed.

Lan Feiying opened it, raised an eyebrow, and said in surprise, “Lan Wu…? He still hasn’t given up?”

“It’s not Lan Wu who hasn’t given up, but the Lan family behind him.”

Lan Mulian said indifferently, “The Lan family is an ancient clan that values bloodline above all else. Our mother was a servant in their eyes, but we’re not.”

“Oh?”

A charming smile appeared on Lan Feiying’s face, but her eyes were cold.

How interesting. Sister and I were born from a ‘servant’ in your eyes. Our bloodline is lowly, yet you’ve invited us back to the Lan family several times.

You were the ones who drove us and Mother away, and now you want us to return.

So our ‘lowly’ status is something you high and mighty people decide as you please?

“Are you planning to go back, Sister?” Lan Feiying suddenly asked, breaking the silence.

Lan Mulian said softly, “No matter what, Mother always missed the Lan family. I’ll have to go back eventually.”

She looked at the alluring woman on the bed, then glanced at the thick blanket. “We still have time to decide. I’ll go and think about it alone.”

Lan Feiying pursed her lips and hummed softly.

“If you’re going to the Lan family, I’ll go with you.”

Suddenly, a calm voice echoed through the room.

“It’s a good opportunity to meet my future father-in-law.”

Even Lan Feiying hadn’t expected Mu Zhian to speak. Her body stiffened for a moment before relaxing.

Lan Mulian also stopped, turning to look at him.

Mu Zhian sat on the bed, his demeanor gentle, yet exuding the aura of a noble young master.

Lan Feiying sat beside him, her long, fair legs revealed beneath her thin white robe, her attire simple, yet her aura alluring and seductive.

She looked at Mu Zhian and giggled. “I thought you were planning to hide until Sister left.”

Mu Zhian shrugged. “If I really hid until Senior Sister left, I would feel guilty and uneasy the next time I saw her.”

Besides, he didn’t think he and Lan Feiying could fool Senior Sister.

Even with the talisman Lan Feiying had given him, it probably wouldn’t be enough.

Lan Feiying did have the system, but Senior Sister had the Sacred Heavenly Body. Mu Zhian had never seen this constitution before. Even the Sky God’s constitution was just a weaker version of the Sacred Heavenly Body.

It was too difficult for two Core Formation cultivators to deceive a Nascent Soul cultivator with the Sacred Heavenly Body.

If Senior Sister already knew he was in the room, it would be even more difficult to regain her favor after this.

He might even lose her completely.

And he didn’t want to be caught between the two sisters.

“If you really felt guilty, you wouldn’t be involved with so many girls.”

A cold, arrogant voice came from behind him.

Lan Mulian raised her chin, her beautiful eyes looking down at the handsome boy with an air of authority.

But a faint smile played on her lips.

I thought you were really planning to hide until I left…

Mu Zhian smiled wryly. “I can’t defend myself against that, but I would truly feel guilty if I hid it from you today. It’s not contradictory.”

Mmm, although I was intimate with your younger sister, it doesn’t prevent me from feeling guilty towards you, Senior Sister. After all, I’m a good boy.

Lan Feiying leaned against the bed, her long hair cascading down, slightly disheveled. She poked Mu Zhian’s forehead playfully. “You feel guilty towards Sister, but not towards me?”

“Of course I feel guilty towards you too, Feiying…” Mu Zhian said sincerely.

Lan Feiying narrowed her eyes. “You said you were planning to meet your future father-in-law. Are you planning to take Sister to meet him, or…”

She glanced at him. “…me?”

A brief silence fell over the room.

The gazes of the alluring woman and the cold woman fell on Mu Zhian simultaneously.

No matter who Mu Zhian chose, the other would accept it.

After all, it was Mu Zhian who was choosing…

But under their gazes, Mu Zhian slowly shook his head. “I don’t want to choose Senior Sister, but I won’t choose Feiying either.”

Lan Feiying’s eyes flickered, and Senior Sister Lan frowned slightly, about to speak.

Suddenly, Mu Zhian embraced Lan Mulian’s waist and pulled her closer.

At the same time, he took Lan Feiying’s hand. “I want to take both of you back to the Lan family.”

Chapter 404: Sisterly Swap Limit p2

…

Back mountain.

“Senior Lin Ling, did you call me here just for this…?”

Lan Mulian sat in the courtyard, looking at the crystal elbow and three meat buns filled with spirit chicken that Lin Ling had just taken from the Medicinal Cuisine Pavilion, speechless.

She had thought Lin Ling had summoned her because of Master’s instructions, but now it seemed it was just to treat her to food…?

Lin Ling took out a piece of paper and wrote: You seem distracted. What happened?

“Just some minor matters. Don’t worry about it, Senior Lin Ling,” Lan Mulian shook her head, smiling, but she couldn’t help but sigh inwardly.

She had always cared for her younger sister.

Lan Mulian and Lan Feiying shared the same mother, but their mother had died of illness shortly after they were born.

In the cultivation world, there was no such thing as dying from illness. With pills, anyone could be saved.

But at that time, the former Clan Leader of the Lan family had been attempting to reach the Soul Transformation realm, bound by the shackles of heaven and earth, and ultimately died during his tribulation. The Lan family fell into chaos, splitting into three factions, and Lan Mulian’s father was the leader of one of them.

Although he eventually became the Clan Leader, he was busy dealing with internal conflicts, and his position wasn’t stable. The safest course of action was to marry the eldest daughter of another faction.

Lan Mulian’s mother was just an ordinary woman. To avoid conflict with the other faction, she was sent away.

The frail woman suffered from the cold, and after the Lan Clan Leader’s wife discovered her husband’s affair, she made things difficult for her.

For her husband’s sake, the woman endured everything silently, even on her deathbed, urging her two daughters not to cause trouble and avoid bringing unnecessary problems to their father.

Because of this, the two sisters had hated unfaithful men since they were young… Yet, by chance, they both fell in love with the same man.

Although this man was fickle, Lan Mulian was confident that he wouldn’t abandon her.

He was a playboy, but he wasn’t irresponsible.

In the past, she had always given her sister whatever she wanted, but this time… she didn’t want to, but she also didn’t want to create a rift between them because of this. Therefore, her relationship with Mu Zhian was in a delicate state.

But her sister had seen through her thoughts and even deliberately provoked her.

Either you take him or I will. It’s your decision, Sister… This was probably what Lan Feiying meant.

So, for a long time, Lan Mulian had maintained a certain distance from Mu Zhian, but the night before last… she had… taken the initiative.

Mmm… Although the roles seemed to have reversed, it was indeed her who had initiated it.

She didn’t regret dual cultivating with Mu Zhian, but her sister clearly didn’t want to give up either… So, Lan Mulian didn’t know how things would develop.

It seems Feiying knows about what happened between Junior Brother and me. But what is she thinking…? Lan Mulian looked at the rain outside the courtyard, lost in thought.

Suddenly, she smelled a faint medicinal fragrance. She looked up and saw Lin Ling taking out a smooth, dark pill.

Lan Mulian hesitated. “Senior Lin Ling, what’s this…?”

Lin Ling lowered her head and wrote on her board: This is from her.

Lan Mulian’s eyes flickered, staring at the pill for a long time. “A Nascent Soul Pill… Does Master know my Dao?”

Since she started cultivating, Lan Mulian’s realm had been stuck at the Nascent Soul realm, but this wasn’t because she hadn’t been cultivating diligently, but because she had chosen a different path from other Eastern Continent cultivators.

After nine transformations at the Nascent Soul realm, she could skip the Soul Transformation realm and directly reach Dao Integration.

The rules of heaven and earth limited cultivators to advancing only one realm at a time, from Nascent Soul to Soul Transformation.

But Lan Mulian’s Dao allowed her to skip the Soul Transformation realm.

She didn’t even need to resonate with the Heavenly, Earthly, or Humanly Daos to achieve Dao Integration because she would resonate with the Great Dao!

The Sacred Heavenly Body could see through the essence of all things, even glimpsing the essence of the Great Dao.

And this Nascent Soul Pill could help her reach the Fourth Transformation of the Nascent Soul realm.

Lin Ling held up her board again, and messy words appeared: You can meditate here today. I’ll protect you and shield you from heavenly secrets. If nothing unexpected happens, you can refine it in five hours.

Lan Mulian quickly collected her thoughts and smiled. “Thank you, Senior.”

…

That night.

The rain had stopped. Mu Zhian wandered around the Moon Spirit Hall for a while, making sure no one was around, then slipped into Lan Mulian’s room.

Knock, knock.

He knocked gently on the door and whispered, “Senior Sister, can I come in? I want to talk to you. I promise I won’t do anything bad…”

After a moment, there was still no response.

“Silence means consent…”

Mu Zhian pushed the door open and entered the room, seeing the woman in white leaning against the bed, reading by candlelight.

The candlelight illuminated her moon-white dress, and the beauty mark beneath her right eye added a touch of allure to her face. Her long, curled eyelashes caught the light, and her skin glowed warmly.

Mu Zhian walked over, draped his white robe over her shoulders, and said softly, “Senior Sister, it’s so late. Why are you still reading? Why aren’t you meditating?”

Lan Mulian looked up at him indifferently. “What is it?”

She’s willing to talk to me, which means she’s just pretending to be angry… Mu Zhian was overjoyed. He sat down beside her, smiling. “Nothing. Can’t I just chat with Senior Sister?”

Lan Mulian hummed in response, ignoring him and continuing to read.

Mu Zhian sighed softly. “I know you’re still upset about what happened the night before last, but the Jade Empress had just arrived. I couldn’t do anything…”

“Are you done? If you don’t have anything else to say, please leave,” Lan Mulian said coldly.

“I’m not leaving. I’ll stay here with you tonight,” Mu Zhian shook his head firmly.

Lan Mulian scoffed. “You’re not accompanying your Dao Companion, but staying with me late at night? Aren’t you afraid of others getting jealous?”

Mu Zhian shook his head. “I’ll stay with you tonight, Senior Sister. It doesn’t matter who comes.”

“I have to… compensate you.”

He took Lan Mulian’s soft hand.

Her hand was usually cool, but today, although it was still smooth and soft, it wasn’t cold.

But Mu Zhian didn’t think much of it. After all, the beauty was right beside him, and she wasn’t resisting.

He knew what this meant.

He smoothly embraced Lan Mulian’s waist, looked up at her, and kissed her on the lips.

Lan Mulian was unusually proactive tonight. After a brief hesitation, she wrapped her arms around the back of Mu Zhian’s head, and he felt like he was falling into a sweet trap she had carefully woven.

And he willingly fell into it.

After a moment, they parted. Lan Mulian’s breath was warm on his face, and seeing his heated gaze, a blush colored her cheeks, adding to her allure.

She leaned close to his ear and whispered, “Is this all the compensation you’re offering?”

Thump, thump.

Mu Zhian’s heart raced, and his breathing quickened.

He looked up at the elegant beauty in the white dress.

Their warm breaths mingled, and he looked into her moist eyes, at her soft lips, and at her beautiful, alluring face.

Her teasing words were like adding fuel to the fire.

He suddenly bent down, lifted Lan Mulian into his arms, and carried her towards the bed.

One of her red embroidered shoes fell to the floor. She glanced at the boy and chuckled softly. “It must be difficult for you, carrying Sister in your current state… You’re surprisingly strong.”

Mu Zhian looked down at the beauty in his arms, smiling. “You’re not heavy, Senior Sister. How could I not be able to carry you?”

He gently placed Lan Mulian on the bed, looked down at her, and was about to kiss her when he suddenly heard familiar footsteps approaching.

Mu Zhian’s heart skipped a beat. Who’s still wandering around at this hour…?

He extended his consciousness, quickly sensing the owner of the aura.

I thought it was someone else. It’s just Senior Sister…

Mu Zhian froze.

He looked at the cold beauty on the bed, his mind short-circuiting.

You’re Senior Sister, then who’s the Senior Sister outside…?

A terrifying thought struck Mu Zhian, and he stared at the woman on the bed, a playful smile on her face.

He said with difficulty, “Feiying…?”

At the same time, the footsteps outside finally stopped at the door.

Chapter 404: Sisterly Swap Limit p1

Huh? Senior Sister is finally willing to see me…?

Mu Zhian’s first reaction was surprise. He had originally thought it would take a few days for Senior Sister to calm down and see him again.

But it’s only been a day… Could it be she’s… developed a taste for it?

Well, that’s true. For girls, there’s only a difference between once and countless times. After the first time, things become much easier…

But why did Feiying come to get me? Could it be she also wants to…? Mu Zhian’s mind wandered as he looked at the beautiful woman in the red cheongsam walking ahead under an umbrella. He quickly followed her.

“Feiying, do you know why Senior Sister is looking for me?”

Lan Feiying glanced at the boy behind her and smiled. “How would I know? You know my sister’s personality. She wouldn’t reveal her thoughts even if she had something on her mind.”

That’s true. Senior Sister rarely expressed her feelings directly…

Hearing Lan Feiying’s reply, Mu Zhian didn’t ask further and quietly followed her.

The sound of rain filled the air, a silent atmosphere between them.

“Don’t you have anything to say, Feiying?” Mu Zhian suddenly asked.

Lan Feiying glanced at him with a playful smile. “Say what? Do you want me to comment on my feelings after seeing you being intimate with the Jade Empress?”

“I’m just a little… concerned. Don’t you care about these things?”

Mu Zhian looked at the woman in the red cheongsam. He knew she was intelligent and understood what he meant.

“It would be a lie to say I don’t care, but I know your personality,” Lan Feiying said, pausing and glancing at him, her lightly made-up face even more alluring.

Her words seemed to say: I know you’re a playboy. I’m used to it.

Mu Zhian’s expression remained unchanged as he walked beside her. After a moment of silence, he said worriedly, “The Heavenly Dao chose you as the Chosen One, but we’re now… together… What if the Heavenly Dao finds out?”

“The Heavenly Dao is just a collection of the consciousnesses of cultivators in the Nine Provinces, a force for balance and correction. It’s also bound by the rules of heaven and earth it created and can’t directly interfere with the Nine Provinces.”

Lan Feiying smiled. “So you don’t have to worry.”

“If the Heavenly Dao can’t use me to eliminate those who violate its rules, it will choose a new Chosen One.”

So, there are more than just one or two Chosen Ones like Ye Yu and Xiao Hua. Before its goal is achieved, the Heavenly Dao will bestow immense luck upon a new Chosen One…

In other words, I have more leeks to harvest… Mu Zhian’s eyes lit up with excitement.

Lan Feiying stopped, looking up at the pavilion not far away. The cold wind blew the curtains, revealing a glimpse of the woman in white beneath.

A seductive smile appeared on Lan Feiying’s lips. “However, when did you get the impression that I wouldn’t… deal with you?”

Before Mu Zhian could react, she took his hand and called out, “Sister, I brought him.”

Mu Zhian’s heart skipped a beat as he realized what was happening, but before he could pull his hand away, the cold beauty in the moon-white dress beneath the pavilion looked over.

She paused, then a faint smile appeared in her clear, cold eyes. “The ground is slippery in the rain. Are you afraid he’ll fall?”

I see. Feiying wasn’t trying to provoke Senior Sister. She was worried I would fall… What a heartwarming story.

Mu Zhian complained inwardly as he entered the pavilion with Lan Feiying.

Were they playing Go…? Mu Zhian looked at the Go board and then at the elegant Lan Mulian. Her beautiful face was calm and indifferent. Sensing his gaze, she glared at him coldly.

“Can we continue our game now?”

Although her words were directed at Lan Feiying, her cold gaze was fixed on Mu Zhian.

“Of course. Let’s continue,” Lan Feiying said, glancing at Mu Zhian with a smile. “I asked you to come here to be the judge and see who wins between Sister and me.”

“A Go game needs a judge…?” Mu Zhian was speechless.

But he patiently sat down and watched the two sisters play.

Being a judge wasn’t a problem.

Come to think of it, watching two beautiful sisters play Go in a rainy pavilion was quite pleasant.

Time passed silently. Mu Zhian knew a thing or two about Go, so he wasn’t completely bored.

Besides, no one was really here to watch the game, were they?

At least he wasn’t appreciating the game itself, but the two beautiful women playing it.

Their ample bosoms strained against their clothes, their figures alluring.

They were both at the peak of their womanhood, their eyes bright, their brows delicate, their features exquisite.

And most importantly, they looked almost identical.

In the past, Lan Mulian had worn a veil, obscuring her face, but now, he could clearly see her resemblance to Lan Feiying.

Mu Zhian thought that if these twin sisters swapped clothes and imitated each other’s personalities, he wouldn’t be able to tell them apart.

But one was cold and aloof, while the other was alluring and seductive.

Both were like ripe peaches, each a beauty in her own right.

Mu Zhian discreetly looked away. He could tease them if they were alone, but with both of them present… it wasn’t convenient.

Mmm, I’m not really interested in twins. I’m just admiring their beauty… Mu Zhian thought to himself, maintaining an innocent demeanor as he watched them play.

Senior Sister is losing… After about a quarter of an hour, Mu Zhian glanced at the Go board and knew the outcome.

The game would be decided within the next few moves.

However, to his surprise, Lan Feiying didn’t place her stone where he expected, but in an insignificant spot on the board.

Mu Zhian was stunned, glancing at Lan Feiying’s alluring figure.

Did Feiying not realize she could win, or is she deliberately letting Senior Sister win…?

Just as he thought this, to his astonishment, Senior Sister Lan also placed her stone in an insignificant spot.

Their moves became faster and faster, and Mu Zhian felt something was amiss.

Their moves were completely random, like they were just playing around…

Why did they ask me to be the judge? This is just two noobs pecking at each other…

Of course, he didn’t say this out loud, but continued to watch the two beauties play, his gaze lingering on their chests, comparing their… dimensions.

They seemed to be identical, except for the beauty mark below Feiying’s right eye and Senior Sister’s left eye…

As for the rest… their long, fair legs and their beautiful faces were almost indistinguishable.

As time passed, Mu Zhian felt increasingly uneasy.

Something’s not right… They don’t seem to be trying to win. Their moves aren’t affecting the game at all. What are they doing?

Why did two noobs ask me to judge their game, when they’re not even trying to win…?

Mu Zhian’s mind raced.

Why did Feiying bring me here?

Just to be the judge…?

A thought struck Mu Zhian like lightning, and his eyes widened.

No, they didn’t ask me to judge the Go game. They’re asking me to—

Mu Zhian’s heart skipped a beat, and he stood up, about to excuse himself.

But just then, as Lan Mulian placed her last stone, she looked at the Go board and said softly, “It seems this game is a draw.”

“Not necessarily.”

Lan Feiying’s cold voice echoed through the pavilion. She looked up at the boy who had just stood up, a smile in her eyes.

“Junior Brother, who do you think won, me or your Senior Sister?”

Mu Zhian’s scalp tingled.

A draw wasn’t uncommon in Go, but it wasn’t very frequent either.

They weren’t asking him to judge the game. They were asking, ‘Whose side are you on?’

Aren’t you two sisters the closest? Good sisters should be together forever, like Qian’er and Lingxuan. Why do you have to compete…?

Mu Zhian glanced at the Go board and coughed. “A draw means there’s no winner or loser. How can there be a winner?”

“A draw is only valid if both sides agree. In other words, before an agreement is reached, there’s no winner or loser,” Lan Feiying said with a smile.

“Sister and I don’t mind letting you decide, do we, Sister?”

Lan Feiying looked at the cold beauty in the white dress across from her.

Lan Mulian hummed in response, also looking at the boy in white robes with a smile.

She usually disliked competition, but now, facing her sister, she felt a strong desire to win.

The Go game itself wasn’t important. What mattered was their attitudes.

No matter whose side I choose, the other will be unhappy. Why don’t you two just fight it out…? Mu Zhian complained inwardly.

He hesitated, then said tentatively, “It’s difficult to determine the winner based on the current situation. Why don’t you try a win-win cooperation…”

Lan Feiying glared at him. “Scram!”

“A win-win cooperation in a Go game? Do you think I’m stupid?” Lan Mulian also glared at him.

This guy is so detestable. The Jade Empress came to see him the night before last, and they’re supposedly husband and wife, so their intimacy was understandable. But now he’s actually suggesting a ‘win-win cooperation.’

How shameless…

And he has such a cute, innocent face… How detestable.

So, you’re saying it’s just a Go game, and I can choose either side, but you actually want me to choose between the two of you…

But I’m a mature adult. I don’t want to choose. Feiying and Senior Sister are both irreplaceable… Mu Zhian sighed inwardly, about to speak.

Suddenly, a gentle, melodious voice, like a siren’s song, echoed from the back mountain of Two Polarities Peak.

Lan Mulian, seeming to understand the meaning of the song, collected her thoughts and looked at the two of them with a faint smile. “I have something to attend to. We’ll decide the winner later.”

“Junior Brother, you can think about who won.”

She glanced at Mu Zhian and vanished in a flash of white light, flying towards the back mountain.

Thank you for the timely assist, Sister Lin Ling. I’ll buy you some meat buns in Tianxuan City later… Mu Zhian murmured silently.

His relationships with Lan Feiying and Lan Mulian had always been ambiguous, but after this trip to Two Polarities Peak, his relationship with Senior Sister Lan had progressed rapidly, and Lan Feiying had probably seen their… cultivation through the Desolate Time Lock…

Even if she hadn’t seen it, she must have guessed.

Although he didn’t know what the two sisters had discussed in private, it must have been related to him. Otherwise, they wouldn’t be trying to determine a ‘winner’ today.

Thanks to Lin Ling, he had avoided a disastrous choice.

“Relieved?”

Lan Feiying scoffed and leaned closer to his ear, whispering, “I actually don’t mind.”

Mu Zhian paused, looking up at Lan Feiying, their gazes meeting. “What do you mean, Feiying…?”

Lan Feiying smiled. “You know what I mean.”

Mu Zhian discreetly took her hand and sighed softly, under her teasing gaze. “It’s difficult for me to choose between you and Senior Sister.”

Lan Feiying’s meaning was clear.

She didn’t mind sharing him with her sister… but Lan Mulian was a cold and aloof woman, easily embarrassed, although she rarely showed it.

So, to mediate their relationship, he needed to start with Senior Sister…

If Senior Sister agreed, everything would be much easier…

Mu Zhian pondered.

It seemed he needed to have a deep conversation with Senior Sister tonight and… test the waters…

Lan Feiying twirled a strand of hair around her finger, her alluring eyes filled with charm. She whispered, “Actually, there’s a simple solution…”

 

Chapter 403: You Really Do Have a Good Dao Companion

Nine Dragon Sparrows hovered outside the palace, pulling a phoenix carriage that radiated a holy, captivating light.

Inside, the two powerful beings were conversing.

After hearing Luo Tan’s words, Yao Meng calmly took a sip of tea and looked up, her clear green eyes meeting Luo Tan’s. She spoke in a calm voice, “Why does the Pill Emperor want to see him?”

“Jade Empress, you said that you haven’t mastered the Dao of Time yet, so his time has been reversed, and his body has reverted to its younger form… It’s not strange for me to want to confirm this, is it?”

Luo Tan looked at the woman sitting on the chair, twirling a strand of hair around her elegant finger, a faint smile in her eyes.

“Firstly, I can confirm whether he truly has the Three-Tailed Fox constitution. Secondly, I can also verify what you said, Jade Empress. Besides, I’ll need his cooperation when refining the Supreme Clarity Pill.”

“If you agree, I can provide some of the required ingredients. You only need to prepare thirteen demon cores. I can prepare the rest of the herbs in advance.”

Yao Meng raised an eyebrow in surprise.

“The ingredients for the Supreme Clarity Pill are priceless. You’re quite generous, Pill Emperor. What are your conditions for helping me?”

There was no such thing as a free lunch. Although Yu State was a powerful immortal dynasty with a deep foundation and expertise in alchemy, even Luo Tan shouldn’t be able to easily gather all the ingredients for the Supreme Clarity Pill, let alone offer to ‘gift’ them.

The required materials weren’t something that could be measured by spirit stones.

“No conditions,” Luo Tan shook her head gently, a faint smile in her eyes. “I haven’t congratulated you on your ascension yet, Jade Empress. If Young Master Mu truly has the Fox Clan constitution, consider the ingredients for the Supreme Clarity Pill a congratulatory gift.”

“And congratulations on your wedding.”

Yao Meng glanced at the woman in the white dress, then smiled faintly. “After gathering the demon cores, I’ll bring him to Yu State to visit you.”

Luo Tan smiled back and watched as the celestial maiden transformed into a streak of green light and returned to the phoenix carriage. She then looked away.

“Shuixian, you don’t have to hide behind the throne. The Jade Empress knew you were there all along. She just didn’t say anything.”

She glanced towards the back of the hall, her voice calm.

A woman with an oval face and fair skin, dressed in gray robes, walked out gracefully. Even in plain clothes, her alluring figure was evident.

Xiao Shuixian looked up at the woman on the throne. “Your Majesty, will the Jade Empress really bring Mu Zhian here?”

After Xiao Hua’s death, Luo Tan had taken a liking to Xiao Shuixian. Besides cultivating at the academy, she would also visit the Immortal Dynasty and observe Luo Tan’s alchemy.

Because of this, the other disciples at the academy were envious.

Even though Xiao Shuixian was quite popular at the academy, being chosen by Luo Tan was still enviable.

After all, the Dao Integration expert of Yu State was the most skilled alchemist in the Nine Provinces. Observing her alchemy would be greatly beneficial for one’s cultivation and alchemical skills.

“If the Jade Empress wasn’t lying, she will definitely bring Mu Zhian here.”

Luo Tan said confidently, “I might not be the only one who can refine the Supreme Clarity Pill, but I’m definitely the only one willing to.”

Xiao Shuixian pondered.

Then, Luo Tan suddenly said, “By the way, tell Jingxi to prepare all the necessary ingredients for the Supreme Clarity Pill within a month.”

Xiao Shuixian nodded, then couldn’t help but ask, “Why are you helping him so much, Your Majesty? Just because you owe him a favor?”

I’m just interested in fox ears… Luo Tan looked at the girl in gray robes meaningfully and replied softly, “Yes.”

After being lonely for tens of thousands of years, she had finally encountered an Innate Celestial Furnace with the same constitution as her, one that could even evolve…

And he was incredibly handsome, especially now that he had reverted to his younger, more delicate form…

If she missed this opportunity, she might not have another chance.

She believed the Jade Empress’s judgment wouldn’t be wrong.

“Then, Your Majesty, do you really intend to let Mu Zhian stay in the Dao Initial Palace for a while?” Xiao Shuixian asked.

“Of course.”

Luo Tan raised an eyebrow. “I owe him a favor, and I’ll repay it.”

Xiao Shuixian opened her mouth, wanting to say something.

But Luo Tan seemed to know what she was thinking and chuckled softly. “You don’t have to worry about his safety. I’ll take good care of him in the Jade Empress’s place.”

She licked her lips, a playful smile flickering in her majestic eyes.

…In every sense of the word, she would take good care of him.

…

Heavy rain poured down, covering the ground in a hazy mist.

“It’s a good thing I’m still an innocent child. Otherwise, before Yao Meng returned, I would probably be locked up in the dungeon with Ruoxi and the others…”

An hour later, Mu Zhian, his hand on his waist and the other on the wall, walked out of the guest room with weak steps, his breathing shallow, looking at the misty rain outside, tears of joy welling up in his eyes.

He realized for the first time that his current state had its advantages. Firstly, his realm hadn’t been affected and was still at Core Formation Rank 6. Secondly… Bai Ruoxi and Lingxuan were incredibly gentle towards him.

Seeing his younger self, they couldn’t bring themselves to be too harsh on him, their maternal instincts kicking in.

“I’m sorry, but Lingxuan is from the Forbidden Zone, and Qian’er is a descendant of the Ye family. I can’t interfere,” Ye Qingxin’s helpless voice echoed in his mind.

Mu Zhian shook his head, understanding. “It’s not your fault, Senior Ye. After all, you’re the only surviving ancestor of the Ye family. If Qian’er knew about our relationship, it might be too much of a shock for her.”

“It’s good that you understand. I’ll find a way to compensate you later.”

Ye Qingxin, dressed in a red dress, leaned against the void, feeling even more guilty after hearing Mu Zhian’s response.

The Ye sisters were incredibly respectful towards her, treating her as a revered ancestor. However, they didn’t know that the ancestor they respected had a rather… ambiguous relationship with their Brother Mu.

“Senior Ye, you’re not planning to leave me now, are you? Even if you told Qian’er and Lingxuan the truth, they wouldn’t mind.”

Mu Zhian looked at the rain outside the window, communicating with Ye Qingxin in his mind.

“I wouldn’t leave you now,” Ye Qingxin shook her head gently. “However, let’s keep our relationship a secret for now.”

“I’ll tell them at a suitable time later.”

If it were just… cuckolding the Jade Empress, she would be quite happy, but the thought of this boy also being her descendants’ beloved made her feel conflicted.

After all, competing with her own descendants… felt a bit wrong.

Mu Zhian nodded slightly. “It’s up to you, Senior Ye.”

A streak of red light emerged from Mu Zhian’s body, transforming into a beautiful woman in a black and red dress.

Her long hair cascaded down her back, and she looked at Mu Zhian’s ‘weakened’ state, chuckling softly. “Those girls were quite enthusiastic.”

An hour within the Desolate Time Lock was equivalent to a day outside… Even someone as reserved and elegant as Ye Lingxuan would get ‘angry’ sometimes.

And when she was angry, she might do things that weren’t befitting of a young lady… After all, no one would see.

Mu Zhian heard the teasing tone in Ye Qingxin’s voice and waved his hand helplessly. “Don’t laugh at me, Senior Ye. Why did you leave my Innate Celestial Furnace? Are you going somewhere?”

The beautiful ancestor of the Ye family was as breathtaking as ever.

A faint smile appeared on her delicate face. “That girl from the Forbidden Zone is about to reach the Nascent Soul realm. She’ll encounter a bottleneck soon. I’ll go talk to her while she’s still here.”

After reaching the Nascent Soul realm, one would encounter a new ‘Dao Rhyme.’

Without a clear understanding of their future path, it was easy to become stuck.

Many geniuses in the Nine Provinces had been stuck at this stage, unable to reach the Nascent Soul realm.

Mu Zhian made a thoughtful “Oh” sound. “Lingxuan is mentally and physically exhausted and should still be meditating. You might have to wait for her, Senior Ye.”

Ye Qingxin glared at him playfully. “Whose fault is it that she’s so exhausted?”

Mu Zhian spread his hands. “Do you think I’m feeling any better?”

He had suffered alongside Lingxuan and the others, but they had gained vast amounts of spiritual energy, while he had lost both spiritual energy and physical strength.

Do you understand my pain?!

Oh, wait… Young Master Mu had gained pleasure.

Although his body was a bit weak now.

Ruoxi’s… heart was already difficult to control before, and now it was even harder. If it weren’t for Lingxuan and Qian’er’s help, he wouldn’t have been able to handle Ruoxi alone.

“You’re not feeling well… Isn’t that your own fault?” Ye Qingxin gave him a disdainful look, her eyes seductive.

Mu Zhian said grievously, “You were inside me all along, Senior Ye. You should know that once the Desolate Time Lock was activated, I had no choice.”

Ye Qingxin looked at him playfully. “If you had used the Heaven-Measuring Ruler, the Desolate Time Lock wouldn’t have been able to control you. You could have escaped, at least temporarily.”

That weapon was once used by the Lord of the Heavenly Court, and after Mu Zhian used the Immortal Ascension blood essence, its lost divinity had returned.

The Heaven-Measuring Ruler could measure all things in the world. If he used it, the barrier created by the Desolate Time Lock would have been instantly destroyed.

Mu Zhian shook his head gently. “There was no need to use the Heaven-Measuring Ruler. If that could make Lingxuan happy, it was fine.”

“Even I’m a little jealous hearing you say that.”

Ye Qingxin blinked her beautiful red eyes, looking at the boy with amusement. She chuckled softly. “So, you were just giving them a way to vent their frustrations.”

“Even without the Desolate Time Lock, they would have found other ways to control you—”

Mu Zhian placed his finger on his lips, a faint smile playing on his lips. “Senior Ye, some things are better left unsaid.”

“If you’re dissatisfied with Yao Meng, I’ll also find a way to make you happy… After all, you’re the first older sister I fell in love with in the Heavenly Court.”

This was the charm of words. With enough qualifiers, there could be many ‘firsts.’

For example: You’re the first woman I liked in the Eastern Continent. You’re the first woman I loved most in Tianxuan City…

Then, Mu Zhian gently embraced Ye Qingxin.

Although his body was frail, his warmth and the arms around her waist made Ye Qingxin’s body tremble, and the playful smile on her face faltered.

Although it wasn’t the first time she had been intimate with Mu Zhian, it was the first time with his younger self.

Moreover, it was also the first time he had spoken such gentle words to her.

She usually liked to tease others, but now, Ye Qingxin’s heart was in turmoil.

She quickly recovered and gently pushed Mu Zhian away.

“Aren’t you afraid of being seen being intimate with someone else in this place?”

Her voice was slightly scolding, but her eyes were seductive.

“I just wanted Senior Ye to understand my feelings. Even if others see us, I don’t mind,” Mu Zhian said with a casual smile.

Ye Qingxin pursed her lips, her beautiful red eyes gazing at Mu Zhian, a hint of joy within them.

Although she knew he was just trying to appease her, she was still touched.

She had many admirers in the past, but she had never been intimate with anyone, choosing to focus on cultivation instead.

Her relationship with Mu Zhian had started as a simple transaction, but after spending time with him, she had developed feelings for him.

“If only you weren’t those two girls’ beloved brother,” Ye Qingxin suddenly sighed.

Mu Zhian paused, then chuckled. “Although you care about the Ye family, Senior Ye, I know Lingxuan and Qian’er better than you.”

“If I explained it to them, I think they wouldn’t mind.”

“You’re wrong.”

Ye Qingxin suddenly disagreed.

Mu Zhian was stunned. “Wrong?”

Ye Qingxin didn’t answer. She placed her hands on her knees, her black and red dress pooling around her.

Then, she leaned closer, her face almost touching Mu Zhian’s, her lips brushing against his, her warm breath and seductive voice echoing in his ear.

“If you weren’t their beloved Brother Mu…”

“You wouldn’t be trapped by the Desolate Time Lock today.”

…

Near the Moon Spirit Hall was a courtyard, and within a pavilion, two beauties, one in red and one in white, with contrasting demeanors, were playing Go.

Curtains shielded the pavilion from the wind, and a smokeless charcoal fire burned within, providing warmth.

Lan Feiying, resting her chin on her hand, sat across from the cold woman in the white dress, admiring her displeased expression while playing Go.

“What’s wrong with Sister today? I rarely see you so troubled,” Lan Feiying suddenly asked with a smile.

Lan Mulian glanced at her alluring sister. “I’m wearing a veil. How can you tell my expression?”

Lan Feiying chuckled seductively. “Sister, I’ve watched you grow up. I know what you’re thinking just by looking at your actions and expressions.”

“It should be me watching you grow up,” Lan Mulian corrected her. “I’m the older sister.”

“Heh.”

Lan Feiying smiled brightly. “That’s true, but we haven’t spent much time together. After all, you left the Lan family long ago, and our memories together are blurry now—”

Her voice suddenly trailed off, and her smile faded as she changed the subject. “Sister, are you so troubled because of Mu Zhian? Did he upset you during his stay at Two Polarities Peak?”

Tap, tap, tap…

The cold Senior Sister, her ample bosom resting comfortably on the table, frowned slightly and tapped the table with her slender finger, her voice calm. “I haven’t interacted with him much. It’s not because of him. I’ve just encountered some problems in my cultivation—”

Before Lan Mulian could finish, she noticed her sister’s playful smile.

Lan Mulian feigned indifference, a smile on her cold face. “You don’t believe me?”

“Of course I do. I believe everything Sister says,” Lan Feiying said, crossing her long legs beneath her red cheongsam, her fair skin dazzling in the dim light.

“Our Go game is missing a judge. Why don’t I go get him to join us?” she suddenly suggested with a smile.

…

Watching Ye Qingxin leave, Mu Zhian subconsciously touched his lips and looked at her retreating figure, sighing softly.

Older sisters are truly wonderful creatures…

Especially older sisters who cultivate…

I must find a suitable opportunity to… subdue this tempting woman in the future…

Mu Zhian took out several Essence Returning Pills from his storage ring and swallowed them like beans.

Then, he looked around, searching for his maid.

If it were the Mengrou from before, who hadn’t confirmed their relationship, it wouldn’t be a problem, but now things were different.

Although Mengrou had always been a caring maid who wouldn’t get angry even if she saw him being intimate with other girls, even showing the magnanimity of a ‘main wife,’ her tolerance probably had its limits. If he didn’t appease her properly, she might really lock him up when she couldn’t endure it anymore.

The Primordial Witch’s identity was shrouded in mystery. Even his personal interface was given to him by her. If he wasn’t careful, he might end up meeting Ye Yu in the underworld.

Oh, Mengrou is kind-hearted. She shouldn’t do anything too extreme.

Using his Innate Spiritual Body, Mu Zhian scanned the area with his consciousness, but couldn’t find Wei Mengrou.

Where did Mengrou go…?

Mu Zhian’s eyes flickered. Just as he was about to summon his sword and search for her, he heard the seductive sound of high heels approaching.

He turned his head and saw a tall, alluring beauty in a red cheongsam standing in the rain under an umbrella, smiling. “Is our busybody free now? It’s really difficult to see you or talk to you alone.”

“Feiying?”

Logically, Feiying should have also seen him being intimate with her sister, but she didn’t seem angry… Mu Zhian hesitated. “Is there something you need?”

Do you also have some kind of ancestral artifact ‘lock’…?

Lan Feiying glanced at him. “Can’t I come looking for you if I don’t need anything?”

She walked over to Mu Zhian, looked down at the boy, and smiled.

“My sister wants to see you.”

Chapter 402: Jade Empress, You Wouldn’t Want Your Dao Companion to Be Unable to Evolve into a Nine-Tailed Fox, Would You?

The room was silent.

Mu Zhian spent a few seconds reflecting on his life.

Mmm… Although it’s been exciting, it’s a bit too short.

Mu Zhian sighed inwardly.

He had anticipated that more than just Ye Lingxuan might have been watching the ‘live broadcast’ the night before last, and he had even foreseen this scene. He had also prepared himself mentally after Yao Meng left.

However, he hadn’t expected Lin Ling’s word spirit ability to teleport him back to the guest room just as the other women were waiting for him.

“Brother Mu, did being intimate with the Jade Empress the night before last leave you with any… aftereffects? Why are you planning to rest as soon as you’re back?”

A familiar, cold, and melodious voice came from behind him.

Ye Lingxuan.

Realizing it wasn’t his imagination, Mu Zhian opened his eyes and looked at the women in the room. Bai Ruoxi, cold and delicate, sat with her hands clasped before her, her eyes downcast, silent.

Lan Feiying, dressed in a flamboyant cheongsam, glanced at him with a schadenfreude smile.

Ye Qian, pure and innocent, looked at him with concern.

Wei Mengrou, the maid who usually disliked conflict, stood quietly in the corner, her arms crossed, frowning, and remaining silent.

Besides them, Mu Zhian also saw an unexpected guest in the room.

Yao Yue, the future successor of the Jade Pool Holy Land.

With an ‘outsider’ present, I’m saved… Mu Zhian breathed a sigh of relief.

Although he didn’t know why Yao Yue was here, Ruoxi was a good girl who knew how to give him face in public, obedient and understanding. She wouldn’t use the Heart-Binding Lock now.

Similarly, Lingxuan wouldn’t use the Desolate Time Lock either.

Sorry, Holy Maiden, but I need you to be a tool for me now… Mu Zhian sat up, forcing a weak smile. “Ruoxi, when did you all arrive? You didn’t even tell me. I was planning to send a paper crane to the Jade Pool Holy Land in the next few days.”

He looked at the Jade Pool Holy Maiden and smiled. “Fairy Yao Yue, why are you here too? Is there something happening at the Jade Pool?”

The Jade Pool Holy Maiden smiled. “I had some… issues with my Dao Heart a few days ago and wanted to ask the Jade Empress for guidance… But it seems she’s not at Two Polarities Peak right now?”

Mu Zhian discreetly glanced at the other women, then nodded slightly, changing the subject. “She left yesterday to gather the ingredients for the Supreme Clarity Pill.”

“Supreme Clarity Pill?”

Their attention was successfully diverted. Bai Ruoxi’s eyes flickered. “Why is the Jade Empress gathering ingredients for the Supreme Clarity Pill?”

“That doesn’t seem like her… Does she have another use for it? Or is it really for Sister Ruoxi?” Ye Lingxuan also asked suspiciously.

Most alchemists wouldn’t know about the Rank 9 Supreme Clarity Pill, as even its formula was rare.

But Ye Lingxuan naturally knew about it, being an alchemist herself. Coupled with Bai Ruoxi’s Three-Tailed Fox constitution, it was no wonder she suspected the Jade Empress’s motive was to help Bai Ruoxi.

At that moment, Lan Feiying heard Xueyi’s gasp of surprise in her mind, as if she had heard something unbelievable. Lan Feiying looked at Mu Zhian. “The Jade Empress is gathering the ingredients for the Supreme Clarity Pill… for you, isn’t she?”

“For Mu Lang…?” Bai Ruoxi looked at the handsome, frail boy sitting on the bed, her expression stunned. “What do you mean, Miss Feiying? Isn’t the Supreme Clarity Pill only for demon cultivators?”

Lan Feiying smiled. “He has a charm constitution similar to Miss Ruoxi’s… The Jade Empress is probably gathering the ingredients for the Supreme Clarity Pill because of this.”

“A charm constitution similar to mine…” Bai Ruoxi’s eyes flickered, and she suddenly realized something, looking at Mu Zhian in disbelief. “The Fox Clan’s constitution?!”

Everyone’s attention immediately focused on Mu Zhian.

“Why are you all so surprised? Since Ruoxi has the Three-Tailed Fox constitution, it’s normal for me to have the same, right?”

Mu Zhian shrugged, joking. “Maybe after I refine the Supreme Clarity Pill, I’ll directly awaken as a Nine-Tailed Fox.”

Ye Lingxuan’s eyes lit up, looking at Mu Zhian with excitement.

A Nine-Tailed Fox… Brother Mu?

After Mu Lang consumes the Supreme Clarity Pill, he’ll awaken the Nine-Tailed Fox body like me…? Bai Ruoxi’s eyes also sparkled as she subconsciously gripped her skirt.

“But why would the Jade Empress gather the ingredients for the Supreme Clarity Pill for you?” the Jade Pool Holy Maiden suddenly asked, hesitant.

Mu Zhian said helplessly, “The Dao of Time contains the laws of the Great Dao. Even Yao Meng needs time to fully master it. If I don’t consume the Supreme Clarity Pill, it will be difficult for me to return to my original form in a short time.”

As soon as he finished speaking, surprise and delight flickered in the eyes of almost everyone present.

So, for the next two months, before the Jade Empress returned, Mu Zhian would remain in his current state…

The ‘protagonists’ in the room had different thoughts, and seeing that their attention had been successfully diverted, Mu Zhian secretly breathed a sigh of relief.

My efforts weren’t in vain. They don’t seem very angry about my dual cultivation with the Jade Empress anymore…

That’s true. Mu Zhian wasn’t the one who initiated it. He was just a Core Formation cultivator. How could he resist Yao Meng?

Now that the little sharks in the fish pond were focused on the big shark, Yao Meng, he, the owner of the fish pond, could finally have some peace.

And it’s a good thing I’m in my younger form now. Ruoxi and the others probably wouldn’t be too harsh on me… Mu Zhian rejoiced inwardly.

He realized for the first time that his age regression had its benefits.

If he were in his original form, he would probably be locked up in the little room as soon as the Jade Pool Holy Maiden left.

“Mu Lang, will consuming the Supreme Clarity Pill restore you to your original form?” Bai Ruoxi suddenly asked.

Mu Zhian nodded slightly, smiling. “The Nine-Tailed Fox body can freely switch between different ages.”

And even see through your fetishes and weaknesses… all kinds of weaknesses.

Mu Zhian didn’t say this out loud. He would give them a little ‘surprise’ after he consumed the Supreme Clarity Pill.

“My father has collected many different types of spirit stones in the Celestial Palace. I can bring them to Brother Mu,” Ye Lingxuan suddenly said.

Bai Ruoxi’s eyes flickered. “There are also a few herbs needed for the Supreme Clarity Pill in the Sword Palace. I’ll go and get them.”

They’re all such good girls, caring about Mu Lang… Mu Zhian felt a warmth in his heart. “Thank you,” he said gratefully.

The Jade Pool Holy Maiden looked at this harmonious scene, frowning slightly. Something felt amiss.

Back in the Jade Pool, they had all seemed eager to lock Mu Zhian up in the dungeon… but now the atmosphere was surprisingly harmonious…

Suddenly, someone tugged on her sleeve. The Jade Pool Holy Maiden glanced over, and the cold maid in the yellow dress gave her a meaningful look, then transmitted her voice to Lan Feiying, saying something.

The Jade Pool Holy Maiden understood and quietly left the room with the two of them.

Mu Zhian noticed the change in atmosphere and immediately called out, “Mengrou, where are you going?”

Although the maid was usually inconspicuous, and her Dao was to minimize her presence, Mu Zhian had been paying attention to her.

Wei Mengrou glanced at her Young Master, giving him a cold, “you’re on your own” look, and closed the door behind her.

Clang!

The Desolate Time Lock unfolded in mid-air like a giant net, its golden light enveloping the entire room.

Mu Zhian’s heart tightened. He looked at his beautiful younger sister, forcing a brotherly smile. “Lingxuan, what are you…?”

At the same time, he called out inwardly, “Senior Ye, Senior Ye, are you there…?”

However, the beautiful ancestor of the Ye family didn’t respond.

If Mu Zhian could see inside his Innate Celestial Furnace, he would see the beautiful ancestor in her black and red dress sitting in the void, her face as beautiful as a painting.

She dangled her jade-like feet beneath her dress, a helpless look in her eyes.

If the only person threatening Mu Zhian’s ‘safety’ was the Sword Palace Master, she would have intervened.

But now… with the Ye sisters also present, she couldn’t.

Her relationship with Mu Zhian was a secret from the Ye sisters… If she helped him now, where would she, the ancestor of the Ye family, put her face?

Wouldn’t she be competing with her own descendants for the ‘cake’?

Ye Qingxin rubbed her forehead, a hint of apology in her alluring red eyes. She murmured, “Although I want to help you, since it’s my descendants who are acting, I can’t…”

Seeing that Ye Qingxin wasn’t reacting, Mu Zhian looked up at the golden chains filling the room, lost in thought.

After a long moment, he gave up thinking.

He had been careless.

Diverting the conversation had gone smoothly, and they did care about him and wouldn’t lock him up…

However, this didn’t mean they would refuse to ‘devour’ the younger Mu Zhian.

As for Ye Qingxin… It wasn’t that she didn’t hear his call, but since it was Ye Lingxuan who was acting, with Qian’er also present, as the ancestor of the Ye family, she couldn’t interfere.

But it’s not a big deal. Lingxuan is my good little sister. She wouldn’t go too far… Mu Zhian looked up at the room enveloped by the Desolate Time Lock, maintaining his composure and forcing a gentle smile. “What are you planning to do, Lingxuan?”

“The Desolate Time Lock has locked onto Brother Mu, and it can also see what’s happening around him, so… I think Brother Mu should know what I’m planning to do,” Ye Lingxuan said softly, her elaborate dress making her look even more elegant.

“This ancestral artifact can alter time within this room. A day within this room might only be an hour outside.”

“And Brother Mu at this age should call me ‘older sister,’ shouldn’t he?” Ye Lingxuan looked at Bai Ruoxi. “Right, Sister Ruoxi?”

Bai Ruoxi took out the Heart-Binding Lock from her ample bosom and looked at Mu Zhian with gentle eyes. “Lingxuan is right. So Mu Lang should also call me ‘older sister.’”

As she looked at the boy before her, the image of the Jade Empress and Mu Lang together the night before last flashed through her mind, and she subconsciously replaced the Jade Empress with herself.

A warmth spread through her body, her legs rubbing together, a charming blush coloring her delicate face. Her usually gentle eyes were now hazy and seductive.

The next moment, the Heart-Binding Lock flew towards Mu Zhian.

…

At the same time, in the Moon Spirit Hall, Xueyi, the Fourth Pillar God of the Southern Wilderness, was communicating with Lan Feiying.

“Are you sure it’s okay to leave him there? His constitution is so special. Aren’t you going to fight for him?”

Xueyi couldn’t help but ask, feeling incredibly regretful.

The Innate Celestial Furnace, especially one that could evolve… If she could cultivate with him, she could recover some of her peak strength.

And that would increase her chances of successfully possessing the Holy Maiden of the Southern Wilderness.

“If you dual cultivate with him, you can also quickly reach the Nascent Soul realm,” Xueyi said, her voice seductive and tempting.

However, Lan Feiying’s expression remained calm. “I’m not in a hurry. I have something to ask Sister. As for that guy, I’ll deal with him later.”

She licked her lips, smiling seductively. “He’s not going anywhere.”

Xueyi fell silent, her eyes flickering.

After spending time with Lan Feiying, she realized that this woman was uncontrollable. If it were Ye Yu, he would have already become her loyal follower.

However, she couldn’t control Lan Feiying.

She had to think of a way…

…

Outside the Dao Initial Palace in Yu State, nine Dragon Sparrows pulled a blue and white phoenix carriage towards the palace.

Yao Meng, dressed in a green dress, sat inside, her beauty breathtaking, her hair tied simply with a hair ornament. She looked like a celestial being.

Deep within the Dao Initial Palace, a woman in a white dress sat on her throne, smiling at the woman in the green dress who emerged from the carriage. “Jade Empress, I haven’t had the chance to congratulate you on your ascension. I didn’t expect you to come here first.”

Yao Meng, led by a maid, walked across the luxurious red carpet and sat down on a chair nearby, smiling faintly. “I haven’t thanked you for your help during my ascension, Pill Emperor. How can I trouble you to come and congratulate me personally?”

Luo Tan shook her head. “I didn’t do anything. I just observed the situation.”

Yao Meng chuckled softly. “At that time, observing the situation was exactly what I needed.”

If Yu State and the Demon Realm had also interfered with her tribulation, she might not have ascended.

Under those circumstances, choosing to remain neutral was already a great help.

After all, for these Dao Integration experts of the Nine Provinces, the ascension of a Dao Integration expert from the Eastern Continent was a huge threat. No one could guarantee that the Jade Empress wouldn’t have any ambitions after ascending, even conquering other factions.

After chatting for a while, Luo Tan suddenly asked, “What brings the Jade Empress here today?”

“You’ve only been married to Young Master Mu for a few days. You don’t want to be separated from him so soon, do you?” Luo Tan’s voice carried a hint of teasing.

Her slender fingers gently caressed the letter in her hand, a playful glint in her eyes.

This letter was sent by Mu Zhian through Ye Qingxin.

If it weren’t for the irresistible offer within this letter, she wouldn’t have just watched the Jade Empress ascend.

She wondered if the Jade Empress knew about Mu Zhian’s sacrifice.

“As expected of the Pill Emperor, you’re truly perceptive,” Yao Meng’s eyes sparkled with amusement. “To be honest, I came here today to ask you to refine a pill for me.”

“Oh?”

Luo Tan’s interest piqued. She dismissed the maids in the palace and looked at the celestial maiden. “A pill that requires the Jade Empress to ask personally… must be something few can refine… What pill is it?”

“The Supreme Clarity Pill,” Yao Meng smiled.

A brief silence fell over the hall.

Luo Tan’s smile faded slightly, and she frowned. “Jade Empress, you should know that alchemists have their bottom lines. One of mine is not to casually refine Rank 9 pills, especially not the Supreme Clarity Pill, which would strengthen the Demon Realm.”

“Pill Emperor, please hear me out first,” Yao Meng smiled faintly. “I’m asking you to refine the Supreme Clarity Pill not for the Demon Realm, but for my Dao Companion.”

“Your Dao Companion…?”

Luo Tan narrowed her eyes, crossing her black silk-clad legs beneath her luxurious white dress, and glanced at Yao Meng. “What does this have to do with him?”

To have the Pill Emperor refine a pill, one had to offer sufficient compensation. Yao Meng knew this.

She explained what had happened, including how her Dao of Time had caused Mu Zhian’s age regression.

Luo Tan’s eyes flickered, and she seemed to want to ask something, but held back.

She maintained a calm tone. “So, Mu Zhian’s appearance has reverted to when he was a boy…?”

For some reason, the image of the young man’s handsome features, combined with his current younger appearance, made her heart race.

Luo Tan quickly recovered and cleared her throat. “This is a serious matter, and refining the Supreme Clarity Pill will take at least nine days. Although I’m willing to believe you, Jade Empress, I still have some doubts… After all, a cultivator from the Eastern Continent possessing a demon cultivator’s constitution is quite strange.”

“Therefore—”

Luo Tan crossed her legs, her white boots dangling gently, and stared at Yao Meng. “I want to see him personally to confirm his condition.”

“If the Jade Empress is truly concerned about him, you should be able to do this, right?”