Category: It turns out, they are the protagonists

Chapter 382: Happy Wedding 

“The Jade Empress’s wedding… She’s openly inviting cultivators from all over the Nine Provinces, and even sent an invitation to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony… Did Mu Lang already know about this?”

Before Mu Zhian could recover from the shock of receiving the wedding invitation, a gentle voice reached his ears.

Bai Ruoxi looked at him intently, pulling him back to reality.

Mu Zhian did know about the Jade Empress’s wedding. After all, Yao Meng had discussed it with him.

But he hadn’t expected the Jade Pool Holy Land to send the wedding invitation before he could find a suitable time to explain things to everyone.

And they had even sent it to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony…

Yao Meng is really committed to this act. Even I almost believed it… Mu Zhian looked at the wedding invitation in his hand, then nodded calmly under Bai Ruoxi’s gaze. “I was planning to tell you about this earlier.”

The fact that the Jade Empress had reached the threshold of the Transcendence Realm might not be noticeable to ordinary cultivators in the Nine Provinces, but other Dao Integration experts would definitely sense it.

The Southern Wilderness and the Western Regions had been scheming in the dark. If they knew that the Jade Empress, whom they had offended in the past, was about to reach the Transcendence Realm, they would do everything in their power to stop her.

But no one would dare to openly attack a Jade Empress who had reached the Transcendence Realm, especially since she was already a complete Dao Integration cultivator. Moreover, within the Jade Pool Holy Land, she had the protection of the formations, making it difficult to harm her foundation.

Only a grand wedding like this could stir the hidden currents beneath the surface.

The Jade Empress had already announced her relationship with Mu Zhian, so their marriage wouldn’t arouse suspicion.

However…

Precisely because no one would doubt the authenticity of the marriage, it created this tricky situation…

“The marriage is indeed real,” Mu Zhian said.

Whoosh!

A golden chain shot out from Ye Lingxuan’s sleeve, hurtling towards Mu Zhian.

At that moment, another jet-black chain clashed against the golden one, blocking its path.

“Calm down. He’s not someone who would act so irrationally. It’s not too late to decide after he explains.”

A familiar, cold voice came from behind.

Wei Mengrou stood with her arms crossed, leaning against a pillar in the pavilion. Her pale yellow dress revealed her alluring shoulders, and a thin ribbon tied around her waist accentuated her ample bosom.

The butterfly mark on her thigh was no longer visible, as the Immortal-Devouring Chains were entangled with the Desolate Time Lock.

“Mengrou…” Mu Zhian said gratefully.

It seems all that pampering wasn’t in vain. Mengrou was reliable in critical moments…

Ye Lingxuan’s eyes flickered, then she smiled sweetly. “The Desolate Time Lock acted on its own. It has nothing to do with me. I also trust Brother Mu.”

Yes, yes, Lingxuan cares about Brother Mu the most. The Desolate Time Lock is also secretly in love with Brother Mu, that’s why it wanted to tie me up, I understand…

Bai Ruoxi looked up, her delicate eyes moist. Her white dress seemed to glow warmly in the light of the charcoal fire. Her long eyelashes fluttered as she gazed at him. “Mu Lang, are you really going to marry the Jade Empress?”

Mu Zhian didn’t answer directly, but after a long silence, he said, “The Nine Provinces have been at peace for a long time. Although there have been conflicts between the Eastern Continent and the Demon Realm, there haven’t been any large-scale disputes since the new Demon Empress took over. And the reason for this is the existence of Dao Integration experts.”

“Yao Meng has even reached the threshold of the Transcendence Realm… Do you think anyone would want her to truly break through and transcend the shackles of heaven and earth?”

Mu Zhian continued, “Of course not. When she was reconstructing her body, at least three major factions in the Nine Provinces didn’t want her to achieve Dao Integration, let alone reach the Transcendence Realm.”

Bai Ruoxi, being incredibly intelligent, immediately understood. She looked at him with clear eyes. “Mu Lang, you mean… the Jade Empress is planning to use the wedding to eliminate her enemies, both internal and external?”

The Jade Empress’s wedding would be a gathering place for influential figures.

And where there were many people, there would be much activity.

The girls present were all intelligent and understood the implications of Mu Zhian’s words.

However, Ye Siyu suddenly said, “So you’re marrying her just to lure out the hidden enemies?”

“But what if the Jade Empress decides to make this fake marriage real? Then you’ll truly be a married man. If my brother-in-law finds out, he’ll twist your head off.”

If you keep talking, Ruoxi and the others will tear me apart… Mu Zhian panicked inwardly, but maintained a calm facade. “If nothing unexpected happens, the wedding will be interrupted before that.”

“What if it isn’t interrupted?” Ye Lingxuan suddenly asked.

Mu Zhian: “…”

He was speechless.

It wasn’t that he hadn’t considered this possibility, but he wasn’t only concerned about Yao Meng’s ascension to the Transcendence Realm. He had now obtained the second and third seats of the Heavenly Court. If he bestowed these seats upon the ‘protagonists’ around him, they would face similar situations.

No one in the Nine Provinces would want another being to surpass them. If Yao Meng broke through, someone would definitely intervene.

If Yao Meng truly reached the Transcendence Realm, it would provide more protection for the protagonists around him.

“The Forbidden Zone emerged when Young Master ‘died,’ eliminating the corrupt forces within the Eastern Continent, but they couldn’t eradicate them completely,” Wei Mengrou said softly. “This wedding is a good opportunity.”

“Last time, when the Jade Empress was reconstructing her body, she was obstructed by others. If she truly intends to break through to the Transcendence Realm, she will face a great trial,” Ye Lingxuan said softly.

This was her tacit agreement to the upcoming drama.

“Indeed… a great trial,” Mu Zhian sighed.

Sensing Bai Ruoxi’s gaze, which seemed to want to lock him in a dungeon, he sighed inwardly again.

It’s not just a great trial for Yao Meng, but also for me…

But since Mengrou had said so, and Bai Ruoxi hadn’t objected, he decided to drop the subject.

“I’ve gained some insights in my cultivation today. I’ll go meditate and cultivate,” Mu Zhian said, breaking the awkward silence.

He had originally planned to seek comfort from Ruoxi after returning to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony, but now wasn’t the right time to mention it.

Besides, there were other girls present. Could he really say, ‘Ruoxi, I want to feel the greatness of your heart in my embrace’?

He would be locked up in a dungeon in an instant.

“Does Sister Ruoxi really agree with the Jade Empress’s plan?” Ye Lingxuan asked softly, watching Mu Zhian return to his room to meditate.

“If the Jade Empress can use this opportunity to ascend to the Transcendence Realm, it will be beneficial for Mu Lang,” Bai Ruoxi said softly.

Ye Lingxuan’s eyes flickered. She suddenly asked, “What if… the Jade Empress really intends to use this opportunity to get married?”

The gentle expression on Bai Ruoxi’s face disappeared, replaced by a rare coldness.

Then, after a few seconds, she regained her usual delicate demeanor. “Then we can only crash the wedding and bring Mu Lang back to the Sword Palace.”

…

The history of the Nine Provinces was ancient and long.

The Eastern Continent was blessed with abundant resources and talented individuals. The Demon Realm was populated by demon cultivators. The Western Regions were home to countless Buddhas. And although the Southern Wilderness had fewer cultivators, each evil god possessed terrifying power and a unique cultivation system.

In short, each region of the Nine Provinces had its own unique characteristics. One thing they all shared was a love for gossip.

Whether mortals or cultivators, they were all inevitably interested in gossip.

There had been countless stories of cultivator marriages, creating tales that were passed down through generations.

However… the marriage of the First Holy Maiden of the Jade Pool Holy Land, the dream lover of countless cultivators, to a Core Formation cultivator… was unprecedented.

Future generations, reading about the Jade Empress’s wedding, would probably question its authenticity.

It was simply too bizarre, so much so that it felt unreal.

In just three days, the news spread throughout the Eastern Continent and then to the rest of the Nine Provinces.

The Thirteen Seats of the Demon Realm were stunned. Even the First Seat, who had always been by the Demon Empress’s side, was in a state of disbelief.

She looked at the demon officials seated on both sides of the long table, her eyes dazed.

By now, the Thirteen Seats were aware of the Demon Empress’s interest in Mu Zhian.

After all, Her Majesty had gone to the borderlands for a young cultivator before her seclusion and had even been slightly injured for him. How could they not notice such a big event?

Now, with the news of the Jade Empress’s impending marriage, the Demon Realm, having its informants in the Eastern Continent, naturally learned of it immediately.

But the Demon Empress was currently in seclusion, refining the essence of the First Demon Emperor, and no one dared to disturb her.

According to the First Seat, Mu Zhian was of great importance to Her Majesty. If Her Majesty asked about this after her seclusion in half a year, how would they explain it?

‘The noble and beautiful Fairy Yao Meng, finding Mu Zhian handsome and grateful for his life-saving grace, announced her marriage to him half a year ago and held a grand wedding, inviting cultivators from all over the Nine Provinces.’

‘But Your Majesty, please rest assured, Young Master Mu Zhian is very happy after the marriage. He was taken back to the Jade Pool Holy Land and… enjoyed himself with the Jade Empress every night. The Jade Empress changes into a different outfit every day to play games with him. Now they even have a little Mu Zhian, and the child can already walk.’

‘Your Majesty, if you truly like him, we can invade the Eastern Continent and take him away from the Jade Empress, making their child call you mother…’

‘Although Mu Zhian might have been completely molded into the Jade Empress’s liking and can no longer live without her…’

Saying this would be testing the Demon Empress’s feelings for Mu Zhian.

If it was just a passing fancy, she might laugh it off. But if it was true love…

Imagining the unpleasant consequences, the officials exchanged glances and shuddered.

“First Seat, do you think we should report this to Her Majesty?”

Finally, someone broke the awkward silence.

“Her Majesty has just entered seclusion. Disturbing her for a mere cultivator from the Eastern Continent would be too much of an exaggeration, not to mention the potential consequences,” the Third Seat said coldly.

“If Her Majesty is angered, who among you is willing to bear her wrath?”

The officials fell silent, no one daring to speak.

“But according to what the First Seat said before, if Her Majesty is truly interested in him, or if Mu Zhian is part of her plan, wouldn’t this ruin everything?” someone retorted.

The high-ranking officials of the Demon Realm exchanged glances. “Then you go and wake Her Majesty.”

The demon cultivator immediately fell silent.

The First Seat sighed softly. “Forget it. Let’s observe the situation for now.”

“I have a feeling that things aren’t as simple as they appear…” she murmured.

Mu Zhian’s Dao Companion was the Sword Palace Master, and his sister, Ye Lingxuan, was the Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Zone. He also had a close relationship with the disciple of the Two Polarities Sect Master. Why hadn’t they stopped the wedding?

Perhaps the Jade Empress was planning something…

After the First Seat spoke, the Thirteen Seats exchanged glances and nodded, agreeing with her.

Regardless of whether the Jade Empress truly intended to get married, if Her Majesty woke up and found out that Mu Zhian was already married, they could say that they had discussed it at length and, for the sake of the Demon Realm, and due to their inability to stop the wedding, it was a case of ‘force majeure.’

With this thought in mind, the Thirteen Seats of the Demon Realm came to a conclusion: wait and see.

They would stall, stall until Her Majesty finished her seclusion…

…

Three days later, late at night.

Mu Zhian sat cross-legged on a soft mat, refining the spiritual energy within his Innate Celestial Furnace.

If he completely refined the spiritual energy given by Luo Tan, along with the pills given by the Peak Masters, he could advance by at least two ranks in a short time.

It was a pity that Luo Tan wasn’t in her true body. Otherwise, if he were to… with her, he might even be able to break through to the Nascent Soul realm.

There were many Qi Condensation and Core Formation cultivators in the Nine Provinces, but Nascent Soul cultivators were rare.

Cultivation up to the Core Formation realm could be achieved through hard work, but reaching the Nascent Soul realm required talent and luck.

Both were indispensable.

As he refined the spiritual energy flowing through his body, Mu Zhian’s Core Formation Rank 5 bottleneck broke through.

The spiritual energy given by Luo Tan dissipated.

Before Mu Zhian could revel in his breakthrough, he suddenly sensed a unique spiritual energy within his cauldron, one that didn’t belong to this world.

“Strange, this spiritual energy isn’t from the Nine Provinces, nor is it from the Innate Celestial Furnace, nor is it from the Heavenly Court… When did I obtain such spiritual energy?”

Mu Zhian hesitated, scanning his cauldron with his consciousness. It was indeed a unique spiritual energy he hadn’t encountered before.

“I’ve seen this spiritual energy somewhere before…”

Mu Zhian opened his eyes, his mind racing. Then, he seemed to remember something. “The new Heavenly Dao…”

Yes, this was Yuanluo’s spiritual energy… He had met Yuanluo several times in the Heavenly Court and could sense her unique spiritual energy.

“The Heavenly Court and the new Heavenly Dao are closely related to me, and Yao Meng has become the First Seat of the Heavenly Court and achieved Dao Integration with the new Heavenly Dao, so I’ve also obtained the power of the Heavenly Court…?”

“But why did my connection to the Heavenly Court and my own strength increase after Yao Meng achieved Dao Integration with the new Heavenly Dao?”

Mu Zhian could clearly sense the Heavenly Court’s existence without using the ring left behind by the First Demon Emperor.

After a brief hesitation, he suddenly remembered something important. He threw off the covers, put on his coat, and summoned the Heaven-Asking Lock.

The Heaven-Asking Lock transformed into a short ruler and hovered beneath his feet. Mu Zhian rode it, transforming into a streak of light and flying towards Two Polarities Peak.

A cold night wind blew. Few cultivators could be seen near Two Polarities Peak, and rich spiritual energy permeated the air around the main peak.

Mu Zhian rummaged through his storage ring, finally finding a paper crane that Sect Master Lin had used to communicate with him secretly. He sent it into the depths of Two Polarities Peak.

After a while, a faint golden light flickered around Two Polarities Peak, then gradually dimmed.

The formations surrounding the peak silently deactivated.

Mu Zhian flew into Two Polarities Peak on his sword, passing through the front hall, the vast main peak, and several other halls, finally arriving at a secluded courtyard behind the peak.

Flowers and trees were in full bloom, and pink peach trees lined the rippling pond. A breathtakingly beautiful woman sat in the courtyard, looking at a Go board on the table, holding a cup of hot tea.

She wore a raven-black dress with a thin ribbon tied around her waist, accentuating her figure.

Today, Sect Master Lin still exuded an air of mystery and elegance. Mu Zhian was involuntarily drawn to her from the moment he entered the courtyard, but he couldn’t tell how old she was.

He only knew that she was beautiful, but the moment he looked away, he immediately forgot her features, only remembering the size of her… bosom.

Terrifying. Does Sect Master Lin also have some kind of ‘charm’ ability? I actually have the urge to marry her, even though I can’t even remember what she looks like… Mu Zhian’s thoughts raced, but his expression remained calm.

Shang Yanfei smiled faintly and looked up at Mu Zhian. “Why are you free to visit me today?”

“You’re the Jade Empress’s fiancé now. If word gets out that we’re chatting alone under the moonlight, your little girlfriends might get angry.”

Although Sect Master Lin is a recluse, she seems to know everything that’s happening outside… Mu Zhian’s heart tightened. He bowed respectfully. “I had some questions during my cultivation today, so I came to visit. I apologize for the late hour.”

Shang Yanfei put down her teacup, rested her chin on her hand, and looked at Mu Zhian with clear, bright eyes. “Tell me about it.”

She looked like a mature woman in her early thirties, yet she exuded a youthful charm. When she smiled, Mu Zhian felt like she was his girlfriend, pure and innocent.

Every time he saw her, he felt like he was seeing a different kind of beauty, and he liked them all.

Mu Zhian calmed himself. “During my cultivation tonight, I suddenly wondered about the Heavenly, Earthly, and Humanly Daos of the Nine Provinces. The Heavenly Dao governs the rules and order, and a while ago, it even manifested its will in the Nine Provinces… Where does its power come from? What does it feel like to be at the Dao Integration realm?”

“So that’s why you came to visit so late.”

Shang Yanfei narrowed her eyes and said calmly, “In a sense, the Heavenly Dao’s power comes from cultivators.”

“To be precise, the more Dao Integration experts there are, the stronger the Heavenly Dao becomes. Its true power comes from the Dao Integration experts of the Nine Provinces.”

Her cold, melodious voice echoed through the courtyard, like a clear spring or the gentle clinking of jade against glass.

I was right…

Mu Zhian’s eyes flickered, and his heart raced uncontrollably.

The Heavenly Dao’s power comes from whether Dao Integration experts integrate with it. The same applies to the new Heavenly Dao.

Therefore, after Yao Meng achieved Dao Integration with the new Heavenly Dao, Yuanluo, who was bound to the Heavenly Court, became stronger, and he could sense the Heavenly Court’s existence more clearly, even entering it with his consciousness without any external aid.

“You’re at Core Formation Rank 6 now, right?” Shang Yanfei asked.

“My cultivation speed is a bit slow. I’m indeed at Core Formation Rank 6,” Mu Zhian replied.

Shang Yanfei stared at him, a long silence hanging in the air.

“Do you have anything else to ask?” she suddenly asked.

I want to spend the night here, does that count…? Mu Zhian thought to himself, but said respectfully, “Not for now.”

He actually had many questions for Shang Yanfei, but he knew she wouldn’t answer them.

“It’s getting late. I won’t disturb your rest, Sect Master.”

Mu Zhian turned to leave.

“Wait.”

A clear, elegant voice came from behind him. A cold wind blew, and her black dress clung to her figure. From Mu Zhian’s angle, he could vaguely see the perfect curve of her bosom.

Under his gaze, Shang Yanfei walked to the front of the courtyard, reached out, and plucked a peach blossom.

She turned back, carefully tucked the blossom into the lapel of his black robe, and smiled faintly. “Happy wedding.”

Chapter 381: The Jade Empress’s Wedding, Inviting the Nine Provinces 

Jade Pool Holy Land.

“Are the invitations ready?” Yao Meng opened her eyes, ending her meditation, and looked at Fairy Yao Xin with a smile.

Yao Xin nodded gently. “The wedding invitations have been sent to the major ancient clans of the Eastern Continent and the Two Polarities Sect using a secret technique.”

She hesitated, then continued, “Jade Empress, what do you like about Mu Zhian…?”

“Is it just because he saved you once?”

Logically, with the Jade Empress’s discerning eye, she shouldn’t have taken a liking to a Core Formation cultivator.

She had interacted with Mu Zhian before. Besides his looks and some talent, he wasn’t particularly remarkable.

But the Jade Empress didn’t seem to be just playing around… Otherwise, she wouldn’t have prepared wedding invitations.

Yao Meng, dressed in a green dress, leaned languidly in the void, every inch of her skin radiating a faint luminescence, breathtakingly beautiful.

A closer look revealed a faint green petal at her flawless ankle.

After inheriting the First Seat of the Heavenly Court, the power bestowed upon her by the word ‘Imminent’ resided within this green petal.

Facing her junior’s question, Yao Meng shook her head gently, a soft smile on her face. “It’s not entirely because he saved me.”

“Then what…?” Yao Xin hesitated.

“To put it simply, I’m attracted to him physically.”

Yao Xin was stunned.

“To put it even more simply, I want to have sex with him,” Yao Meng said with a gentle, holy smile.

Boom!

Yao Xin stood frozen, as if a thunderclap had exploded in her mind.

Her worldview crumbled, and she stared at the wedding invitation in her hand, speechless.

…

“Sister Lin Ling, I heard that a person can only possess one portion of Heavenly Dao Energy. Any more than that is unbearable. Are you sure it’s okay?”

Within the secluded Spiritual Dragon’s pocket dimension, Mu Zhian followed Lin Ling along a path, looking at the silver-haired beauty walking ahead.

He had heard that a person could only withstand the enhancement of one portion of Heavenly Dao Energy. Attempting to refine more would result in backlash.

A being like Lin Ling was an anomaly. Ordinary people, even Dao Integration experts, couldn’t refine multiple portions of Heavenly Dao Energy.

Even someone as powerful as Lin Ling had suffered greatly from the burning karmic fire when she carried three portions, often needing to seclude herself within her pocket dimension to suppress it.

Only after giving the first portion to Mu Zhian had she finally been able to relax and visit the Garden of Heavenly Harmony to freeload off him.

Now, Lin Ling was planning to give him two portions of Heavenly Dao Energy consecutively, so it was no wonder he was worried.

“Aaa.”

Lin Ling nodded matter-of-factly, took out a piece of paper, and wrote: You consumed a Dao Heart Pill before, and your Innate Celestial Furnace has expanded, so it’s fine.

The Heavenly Dao Energy was stored within the Innate Celestial Furnace. Normally, one furnace could only hold one portion, but the Innate Celestial Furnace was special, and with the enhancement from the Dao Heart Pill, there were no such concerns.

“Sister Lin Ling is so thoughtful,” Mu Zhian mused.

Lin Ling took out a paper crane and handed it to Mu Zhian.

“A paper crane?”

Mu Zhian stared at the crane. “Is this part of the ritual?”

Lin Ling held the paper crane and gently tossed it into the air.

The crane fluttered upwards, then transformed into a faint light and flowed into Mu Zhian’s Innate Celestial Furnace.

Thump! Thump!

Mu Zhian’s heart suddenly raced, and he clutched his chest, feeling a burning sensation.

The paper crane had transformed into Heavenly Dao Energy and entered his Innate Celestial Furnace.

Lin Ling wrote on her board: I’ve prepared a formation here. You can refine the Heavenly Dao Energy here in peace. I need to meditate for a while. You can leave on your own after that.

“Although Sister Lin Ling is usually a glutton, she’s quite thoughtful in these matters…” Mu Zhian looked at the voluptuous Lin Ling in her white dress and sighed with genuine admiration.

Lin Ling simply hummed in response, trying to imitate Sect Master Lin’s nonchalant demeanor.

Watching Mu Zhian enter the formation and sit down to cultivate, she was about to look away.

Suddenly, the karmic fire within her surged, accompanied by the lingering love poison accumulated from carrying three portions of Heavenly Dao Energy for so long. Lin Ling’s legs weakened.

She quickly grabbed the wall for support and slid down to the floor.

Her mouth was dry, her body numb, her breathing heavy, and her ample bosom, encased in her light blue dress, heaved gently.

Having suffered from the burning karmic fire before, Lin Ling was all too familiar with her current state.

She could suppress the karmic fire with her spiritual energy, but the accumulated love poison could only be resolved through willpower, or…

She raised her bright red eyes and looked at Mu Zhian not far away.

She stared at him for a long time, then closed her eyes briefly, trying to maintain her composure.

She had endured for so long. A little love poison was nothing…

…

Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

Bai Ruoxi sat in the pavilion, holding a cup of hot tea and playing Go with Ye Lingxuan.

Curtains shielded the pavilion from the wind, and a charcoal fire burned within, providing warmth for the girls.

Bai Ruoxi held a white Go stone, her back straight, her thin dress unable to conceal her ample bosom. Her long hair cascaded down to her waist, and her demeanor was delicate and beautiful.

“Lingxuan, you’ve become the center of attention today. Not only did you win the alchemy competition, but I also heard that Mu Lang kissed you during the competition,” she said softly.

Ye Lingxuan smiled faintly. “Sister Ruoxi, you should know about the enhancement from Brother Mu’s Innate Celestial Furnace. You must have guessed why he did that.”

Wei Mengrou added, “His Innate Celestial Furnace’s abilities are much more complex than before… Whether it’s for you or for him, this secret must not be revealed.”

Hearing this, the expressions of the girls in the pavilion turned strange.

Ye Qian glanced at Wei Mengrou. “Sister Mengrou, you said it’s for us, but what about you…?”

“If Brother Mu is taken away by another girl, wouldn’t you mind?”

Wei Mengrou’s expression was calm. “I’m just his maid. I won’t interfere in his private life. It’s been like this since our days in Tianxuan City, and it hasn’t changed.”

After speaking, Wei Mengrou realized she sounded a bit defensive. She opened her mouth, wanting to explain further.

But sensing the subtle glances from the other girls, she turned her head away, only showing them her beautiful profile.

Suddenly, Ye Siyu, who had been whispering to Ye Lingxuan, looked up at the sky. “Look, what’s that?”

Bai Ruoxi looked up and saw a fiery red paper crane fluttering towards the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

It was clearly headed for them.

Wei Mengrou’s eyes flickered, and she reached out, grabbing the paper crane from the air. She unfolded it.

It was an invitation.

A puzzled look flashed in her eyes as she read the contents.

…

Within the Spiritual Dragon’s pocket dimension.

After nearly two hours, Mu Zhian slowly opened his eyes, raising his hand. A jet-black wisp of Heavenly Dao Energy emerged from his Innate Celestial Furnace and floated above his palm.

“So this is the Heavenly Dao Energy that can devour the luck of others…?”

Mu Zhian sighed, then noticed Lin Ling’s flushed cheeks. “Sister Lin Ling, are you alright?”

“Logically, after giving me the Heavenly Dao Energy, you shouldn’t be suffering from the burning karmic fire anymore. Why do you still look so uncomfortable?”

Lin Ling’s face was burning hot. She glanced at Mu Zhian and whispered, “Aaaaa (I’m fine. It’s just the backlash from the karmic fire and love poison. I need to meditate for a while.)”

This time, Mu Zhian could clearly understand her words, likely due to receiving the second portion of Heavenly Dao Energy.

Lin Ling had possessed three portions, and now she had transferred two to him. In a sense, they had formed a contract.

Mu Zhian walked over to her. “Is there anything I can help you with?”

Lin Ling subconsciously took a step back, her gaze meeting his before quickly darting away. Her breath was hot, and her blush deepened.

She struggled to suppress the karmic fire, but smelling Mu Zhian’s scent, she almost couldn’t resist pouncing on him.

Lin Ling pressed her legs together, her beautiful legs rubbing against each other beneath her white dress. Her eyes were hazy. She shook her head gently. “N-Nothing… Just leave.”

I know Sister Lin Ling has always suffered from the burning karmic fire, but why does she look so… alluring…? Mu Zhian hesitated, glancing at her.

“Just leave…” she repeated.

The karmic fire seemed to be weakening her word spirit ability.

Mu Zhian could clearly sense that her words weren’t resonating with heaven and earth.

“If anything happens, you can use this jade slip to call me back.”

Mu Zhian placed a special jade slip before Lin Ling, then glanced at her one last time and left the pocket dimension.

He’s finally gone…

Lin Ling opened her eyes, watching Mu Zhian’s retreating figure, and breathed a sigh of relief. She rubbed her legs together and covered her burning face.

I absolutely cannot…

Lin Ling calmed herself, focusing her mind and trying to enter a meditative state.

…

Outside the Spiritual Dragon’s pocket dimension, Mu Zhian flew on his sword, feeling a sense of relief.

Not only had he obtained the Heavenly Dao Energy, but he had also learned the identity of the hidden Chosen One. It was a weight off his shoulders.

It was dusk when he left the pocket dimension. Mu Zhian flew leisurely towards Heavenly Secrets Peak, heading straight for the Danxin Hall.

“Such a lovely fragrance. Did Feiying take a bath just for me?”

Mu Zhian entered the hall and saw the alluring Lan Feiying waiting for him.

Lan Feiying rolled her eyes at him. “Would you dare to speak like that if Sister were here?”

Mu Zhian walked into the hall, smiling. “It doesn’t matter even if Senior Sister Lan is here… After all, she knows about my relationship with you, Feiying.”

“Have you refined the Heavenly Dao Energy?” Lan Feiying asked curiously, her lips slightly parted.

As she spoke, a jet-black orb silently appeared in the hall.

Looking at the black orb in Mu Zhian’s hand, Lan Feiying’s eyes lit up. “So this is Senior Lin Ling’s Heavenly Dao Energy?”

“How will it devour my luck?”

Mu Zhian said, “I might have to be a bit disrespectful to you, Feiying.”

Lan Feiying chuckled seductively. “Have you ever been respectful to Sister?”

She glanced at him, her long, fair legs crossed beneath her dress as she leaned against her hand. “Do as you please.”

Mu Zhian’s heart stirred. If it weren’t for the wrong time and place, he would have taken her right there in the hall.

He calmed himself, closed his eyes, and controlled the Heavenly Dao Energy, guiding it towards Lan Feiying.

Lan Feiying felt an invisible force drawing away her luck.

She relaxed her body as much as possible, letting the Heavenly Dao Energy envelop her…

After about a quarter of an hour, the luck she had absorbed from Ye Yu was completely absorbed by Mu Zhian’s Heavenly Dao Energy.

At the same time, Mu Zhian heard a commotion from his personal interface.

He opened it and saw that behind the ‘First Seat,’ two more seats had appeared.

His Innate Celestial Furnace was filled with a vast amount of luck, shining brightly.

I was right. I can absorb the Heavenly Dao’s luck and even use it to unlock seats in the Heavenly Court… Mu Zhian was filled with surprise and delight.

As expected of Ye Yu. No wonder he had survived so many dangers in the past… With such immense luck, even jumping off a cliff wouldn’t kill him.

He might even stumble upon some ancient expert’s ruins at the bottom…

Lan Feiying hummed softly, looking at him teasingly. “Don’t just be happy for yourself. Shouldn’t you reward Sister with something?”

Mu Zhian put his arm around her waist and leaned closer. “I can’t repay you for what you’ve done, Feiying, so I can only offer myself.”

Lan Feiying rolled her eyes at him. “Scram.”

“You’ve already offered yourself to so many girls. It’s worthless.”

Lan Feiying crossed her legs, her red cheongsam accentuating her figure. Her long, fair legs were revealed beneath the slit in her dress, her skin dazzling under the candlelight.

She wore a pair of stiletto heels, making her look tall and sexy.

Her alluring face was adorned with light makeup, adding to her charm.

“I have a Go game with Sister tonight. If she doesn’t see me, she might come looking for me.”

Seeing that Mu Zhian wouldn’t let go, Lan Feiying teased him, “If you don’t mind Sister misunderstanding our relationship, I don’t mind you staying here, or…”

She blew gently into his ear. “Being intimate with Sister here.”

Senior Sister Lan is coming too… Mu Zhian coughed. “Come to think of it, I have some matters to attend to tonight.”

His relationship with Senior Sister Lan was rapidly heating up, but he also had a close relationship with Lan Feiying… Senior Sister Lan didn’t know about this, so he needed an opportunity, an opportunity to bring both sisters into his embrace.

He would test Senior Sister Lan later… Thinking this, Mu Zhian stood up. “Since you have something to do later, Feiying, I’ll be going back now.”

Lan Feiying licked her lips, watching him with a playful smile. “It seems you care more about my sister than me.”

“Poor me, so heartbroken, boohoo…”

I’ll punch every crybaby I see… Mu Zhian’s face darkened. He suddenly turned back, and under Lan Feiying’s widening eyes, embraced her waist and kissed her on the lips.

Lan Feiying’s eyes flickered. Although her expression was calm, a hint of shyness was hidden deep within her eyes, and her body tensed slightly.

After a moment, Mu Zhian released her, looking at her flushed face. “Don’t glare at me like that, Feiying. After you’ve teased me so many times, I have to collect some interest.”

Without giving her a chance to react, he waved his hand and left.

Lan Feiying watched him leave, her long, red-tipped fingers lingering on her lips, as if savoring the warmth of his kiss.

After a long time, she looked away and murmured, “Sister, if you don’t make a move, I won’t hold back anymore…”

…

Dexin Courtyard.

“Lingxuan deliberately ignored me during the alchemy competition, trying to tease me. But if I’m suffering, she won’t be feeling good either… This is a good opportunity for revenge.”

“Maybe I can see her… hehe…”

Mu Zhian flew towards Ye Lingxuan’s residence, his mood cheerful, his previous frustration gone.

He entered Dexin Courtyard and headed straight for Ye Lingxuan’s room.

He quietly pushed open the door, expecting to see her, but the room was empty.

“There’s no one here. Did they all go to Dao Peak to cultivate…?”

Mu Zhian hesitated, then turned back towards the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

It’s fine. Ruoxi and Mengrou are also good…

He had taken two stockings and an unspeakable ball from the Jade Pool Holy Land a few days ago… He could have some fun tonight!

Back at the Garden of Heavenly Harmony, Mu Zhian quickly found the girls in the pavilion.

However, he felt a heavy, dangerous atmosphere…

Logically, the matter with Lingxuan on the alchemy platform should have been resolved. What was going on…?

“What are you all doing here? Playing Go?”

Mu Zhian approached and entered the pavilion. The warm charcoal fire dispelled the winter chill and illuminated the night, but he couldn’t shake the feeling of unease.

“The busybody is back? I thought you would be spending the night with some girl,” Ye Siyu giggled, swaying her twintails mischievously.

Mu Zhian looked at Wei Mengrou. “Mengrou, what’s going on?”

“Did you guys have a fight?”

Wei Mengrou remained silent, taking out an invitation and handing it to Mu Zhian.

Mu Zhian looked at her. “What’s this…?”

“The Jade Empress’s wedding invitation,” Bai Ruoxi said softly.

Ye Lingxuan discreetly held the Desolate Time Lock in her sleeve, preventing it from acting rashly.

Mu Zhian laughed. “Ruoxi, you’re joking again. How could the Jade Empress send a wedding invitation…?”

He suddenly froze, as if remembering something, his heart trembling slightly.

His fingers trembled as he glanced at the girls in the pavilion, then slowly opened the invitation and read the contents… It was indeed a wedding invitation.

And the names of the bride and groom were very familiar.

“The bride, Yao Meng, and the groom…”

“Mu Zhian.”

Chapter 380: Schrödinger’s Mu Zhian

“Only the living can sign an Equality Contract. Conversely, those who aren’t living cannot…”

After sorting out this simple logic in his chaotic mind, Mu Zhian’s smile remained fixed, then slowly stiffened, and finally disappeared completely.

If there were a mirror before him, he would have seen his expression change from a faint smile to hesitation, and finally to a stunned blankness.

Such a change in expression was beyond the capabilities of even the most skilled actor.

Mu Zhian stared blankly at Lan Feiying, then picked up the parchment contract again, as if to confirm that he wasn’t hallucinating, and looked at the words written on it.

Besides a simple description, there was no further explanation.

“How is this possible…?”

Mu Zhian said with difficulty, “Feiying, could there be something wrong with your system item?”

Lan Feiying shook her head gently. “I received this item after eliminating Ye Yu, and I’ve never seen any problems with the items given by my system.”

Mu Zhian said blankly, “But if I’m not alive, how can I be sitting here talking to you?”

“If I weren’t alive, I’ve encountered several Dao Integration experts. Couldn’t any of them tell?”

Although most of the Dao Integration experts he knew weren’t in their true bodies, and Yao Meng’s spiritual energy hadn’t been fully replenished, what about the Demon Empress?

What about Shang Yanfei?

Couldn’t any of them tell that he wasn’t ‘alive’?

Lan Feiying’s eyes were also filled with doubt. “That’s why I’m also confused… There’s nothing wrong with your aura. Could it be the Heavenly Dao’s influence that’s preventing us from signing the contract?”

Mu Zhian’s expression was subtle. “No… Just as you said, the Heavenly Dao can’t directly influence our contract.”

“If the Heavenly Dao could directly interfere, it wouldn’t need to choose Chosen Ones to represent its will.”

“Even the Heavenly Dao must abide by the rules of heaven and earth… because it can’t easily modify the order of the world.”

But if that were the case, his inability to sign the contract with Lan Feiying couldn’t be explained.

Mu Zhian’s face turned grim. He knew he was undoubtedly alive, but the problem with Lan Feiying’s contract was inexplicable.

“Could I be Schrödinger’s Mu Zhian…?” he muttered.

Lan Feiying hesitated. “Schrödinger…?”

“Mmm… It’s a scientific concept. It’s a bit complicated to explain.”

Mu Zhian’s mood was complex. He picked up his teacup, wanting a sip, but found it empty.

He put down the cup. “For example, if you put me in a box, there are two possible outcomes: either I’m alive or dead. But an outside observer can only know whether I’m dead or alive after opening the box.”

Lan Feiying’s eyes flickered. “You mean, this contract can’t determine whether you’re dead or alive, so we can’t sign it?”

The current Mu Zhian was like being in a box, and the parchment contract was the outside observer.

Without opening the box, it was impossible to know whether Mu Zhian was dead or alive.

Mu Zhian continued, “In other words, I’m both dead and alive.”

“Because I’m currently in a ‘box.’ To be precise, I’m similar to Mengrou. Someone erased my existence long ago, shielding me from heavenly secrets, so no outside observer can confirm whether I’m dead or alive.”

But what was their purpose?

Shielding him from heavenly secrets, even preventing the system, which didn’t belong to this world, from determining his life or death… Did that person go through so much trouble just for fun?

Lan Feiying’s eyes flickered, her heart filled with uncertainty. “If that’s the case, it does explain why the parchment contract can’t be signed. To it, you’re neither alive nor dead.”

She looked into Mu Zhian’s eyes. “To this parchment contract, and even to my system, you don’t exist in this world.”

Mu Zhian collected his thoughts, staring at the parchment contract on the table. After a long silence, a shiver ran down his spine.

Most people in the Nine Provinces knew the name Mu Zhian, but the system, which was external to this world, couldn’t determine whether ‘Mu Zhian’ was dead or alive, or even if he existed.

“When did I cease to belong to this world?”

“Was it from the very beginning, or was it after I awakened my past life memories that my existence was erased?”

“But if that’s the case, why does the Heavenly Dao know of my existence and even arrange for the ‘Chosen Ones’ to use me as a stepping stone?”

Mu Zhian’s face turned grim. An unbelievable, daring thought crossed his mind, and his eyes widened slightly.

“What’s wrong? You seem to have thought of something.”

Lan Feiying asked with concern, her usually seductive eyes filled with worry.

Mu Zhian didn’t answer, his mind racing.

Come to think of it, the Heavenly Dao has always treated me as a ‘stepping stone,’ one to be trampled upon by the Chosen Ones.

But I have such a close relationship with the Heavenly Court. Not only can I modify its rules, but I even have a ‘new Heavenly Dao’ there, intending to replace the current Heavenly Dao of the Nine Provinces… Why doesn’t the Heavenly Dao of the Nine Provinces know anything? Why hasn’t it targeted me, but instead treats me as an insignificant stepping stone?

Because of a ‘disguise.’

I’m not a villain, nor am I a stepping stone. I was deliberately given the identity of a ‘stepping stone’ to shield myself from heavenly secrets, to make the Heavenly Dao think of me as an ordinary stepping stone, a diversion…

Mu Zhian took a deep breath and exhaled slowly.

Collecting his thoughts, he asked, “Feiying, since the system is bound to you, can you see my information or something?”

Lan Feiying sighed. “I wish I could, but the system only gives me missions. Completing missions earns points that can be exchanged for items in the point shop. There are no other noteworthy functions.”

She sounded regretful. “If I had known, I would have left Ye Yu for you to deal with.”

Feiying is so kind to me, even willing to give me the kill and the gold… Mu Zhian felt a warmth in the cold winter, and his expression softened.

“It’s fine. Although it’s a pity, since it’s you, Feiying, I can accept it,” Mu Zhian smiled.

But he clearly hadn’t recovered from the shock of the truth, his face still pale.

Lan Feiying’s eyes were filled with worry. She suddenly reached out, embraced the back of Mu Zhian’s head, and pulled him towards her.

Mu Zhian’s face buried itself in her soft bosom. Although separated by the fabric of her cheongsam, he could still feel its weight and softness.

As her seductive fragrance filled his senses, Mu Zhian closed his eyes, involuntarily sinking into the warmth.

In this world full of schemes and betrayals, only the weight of a woman’s embrace could offer some comfort…

Lan Feiying stroked Mu Zhian’s hair, her eyes gentle. She whispered, “Don’t worry. No matter what the Heavenly Dao wants, I’m on your side.”

“Even if it means going against the Heavenly Dao?” Mu Zhian suddenly asked.

Lan Feiying lowered her eyes and chuckled softly. “To me, you’re my only good little brother.”

“Do you remember what you said to me when I first arrived in Tianxuan City?”

Mu Zhian was silent for a moment. “I said I wanted to marry a woman like you, Feiying.”

That was before he awakened his past life memories, before he became a spoiled young master.

The Mu family in Tianxuan City was powerful and influential, and everyone was wary of them. Mu Zhian was the young master of the Mu family… With power and no restraints, it wasn’t surprising that a sixteen-year-old boy would be blinded by beauty.

But even when he was a spoiled, wasteful young master, Lan Feiying had never looked down on him.

A silent, ambiguous atmosphere filled the room. Lan Feiying looked down at the young man in her arms, opened her mouth, wanting to say something, but held back.

After a long time, Mu Zhian lifted his head from her fragrant embrace and looked into her seductive eyes and at her inviting lips.

As their gazes met, unspoken words seemed to pass between them.

“Aaaa?”

Suddenly, a melodious voice, like a song, echoed through the room.

Mu Zhian snapped out of his daze and turned his head abruptly, seeing a woman standing beside them.

She was a beautiful woman with long silver hair, holding a large meat bun and taking a bite.

She noticed Mu Zhian’s gaze, hesitated for a moment, and offered him the bun.

“No, thank you. You eat…” Mu Zhian politely declined.

Lin Ling hummed in response and glanced at the tea on the table.

Mu Zhian immediately understood and poured her a cup. “Please.”

Lin Ling took a bite of the meat bun, then a sip of tea, repeating the process elegantly until she finished the bun. She licked her fingers, seemingly wanting more.

Lan Feiying stared at the woman in surprise, still stunned.

She knew that Lin Ling and Mu Zhian had a relationship, but she hadn’t expected them to be so close.

“By the way, Sister Lin Ling, is there something you need?” Mu Zhian asked after she finished eating.

Lin Ling dipped her finger in the tea and wrote on the table: You seem to be in trouble, so I came to help.

Mu Zhian was stunned. “How did you know Feiying and I encountered a problem?”

Lin Ling blinked her red eyes, then turned her head away and tried to whistle.

She blew hard, but no sound came out, her cheeks puffing out in frustration.

Mu Zhian rubbed his forehead.

He felt like the atmosphere had changed ever since Lin Ling appeared.

“Forget it. Since you know I have a problem, do you know how to solve it?”

Lin Ling nodded matter-of-factly and wrote a sentence on the table.

“The second portion of Heavenly Dao Energy can absorb luck willingly given by others.”

“…”

Mu Zhian stared at the innocent silver-haired beauty in astonishment.

“What a coincidence…?” he murmured.

Chapter 379: Mu Zhian is Alive, But Also Dead? 

Lan Feiying’s words were undoubtedly beyond Mu Zhian’s expectations.

If she hadn’t said it herself and even taken out Ye Yu’s storage ring, Mu Zhian wouldn’t have believed that the Chosen One he had been searching for was actually right beside him all along.

He had previously wondered why the Heavenly Dao only chose male cultivators, but unexpectedly, this time it had chosen a female cultivator… and someone he knew.

Mu Zhian’s feelings for Lan Feiying were always complex.

He certainly liked her. After all, Feiying was the first person who hadn’t looked down on him even when he was a spoiled rich playboy.

Of course, Mengrou was probably the same, but she wouldn’t show it. Even with their current intimate relationship, she would only give him a disdainful look when he requested some… special activities.

Lan Feiying was the opposite of Wei Mengrou. If Mu Zhian asked her for anything… special, she would happily agree.

Oh… and she might even tease him in the process, looking down at him condescendingly while dangling her high heels…

“What’s wrong? I agonized over telling you the truth. Whether you’re surprised or in disbelief, at least show some reaction.”

Lan Feiying smiled charmingly, gazing at Mu Zhian’s face. His features were handsome, with a straight nose, thin lips, and bright, dark eyes, filled with youthful charm.

His slightly pale complexion gave him a fragile air, enough to evoke a protective instinct in older women.

Mu Zhian recovered and looked at the storage ring in Lan Feiying’s hand. “So, you killed Ye Yu?”

“But he’s a man of great luck. He shouldn’t have died so easily…”

Lan Feiying chuckled. “When I found him, his luck was almost completely depleted. But I didn’t kill him.”

“It was her.”

She placed the storage ring on the table.

A faint light emanated from the ring, and a woman in a red dress, appearing innocent and delicate, materialized in the room.

She was a beautiful woman, lacking the youthful vibrancy of a young girl, but possessing a mature elegance cultivated through the years.

Mu Zhian looked up at her, a sense of unease washing over him.

“Why isn’t it Yao Shan…? Why is it someone else?” Mu Zhian asked suspiciously.

“Yao Shan seems to have perished. This is the consciousness Ye Yu saved in the Abyss Palace. As for her identity, let her explain herself,” Lan Feiying said.

The beautiful woman smiled, her eyes sparkling as she looked at Mu Zhian. “So this is the Mu Zhian, Young Master Mu, that Feiying speaks of?”

“Truly a remarkable young man.”

She floated down from the air and sat beside Mu Zhian, smiling. “I believe you’ve heard of my name.”

“Among the Four Pillar Gods of the Southern Wilderness, I control space.”

Mu Zhian’s eyes widened in surprise. “You’re the Fourth Pillar God?”

“It seems you’ve heard of me?” Xueyi smiled charmingly, staring into Mu Zhian’s eyes.

A thousand unspoken words seemed to be hidden in her innocent eyes, but beneath that apparent innocence, there seemed to be other, hidden emotions… subtle and undetectable.

“I’ve had some dealings with the Southern Wilderness, so naturally, I know the name Xueyi.”

Mu Zhian’s smile faded, and he looked at Lan Feiying calmly. “Why are you telling me this, Feiying? If you hadn’t said anything, I wouldn’t have known you were involved in Ye Yu’s death.”

Lan Feiying chuckled softly, seemingly unsurprised by his question. Her voice was seductive and melodious. “Keeping this a secret would create a barrier between us. Now that it’s out in the open, there’s no more barrier.”

Mu Zhian was silent. “You’re the one who stole Ye Yu’s luck?”

“I did, but I only intended to banish him to the void. Senior Xueyi thought we should be more decisive, so she erased him.”

Lan Feiying smiled gently, taking a sip of tea. “Although Ye Yu saved Senior Xueyi, he’s someone who betrayed his teacher and attempted to kill his ancestor… No one would trust him.”

“She witnessed everything in the Abyss Palace not long ago.”

Mu Zhian paused, then chuckled. “You’re right. Those words perfectly describe Ye Yu.”

Deceiving Yao Shan and even attempting to kill his ancestor…

Betraying his teacher and attempting to kill his ancestor, Ye Yu had done both.

But the other meaning behind Feiying’s words was probably to warn him about Xueyi… Mu Zhian understood.

Lan Feiying probably hadn’t had the storage ring containing Xueyi’s consciousness for long, so she wouldn’t know much about this evil god of the Southern Wilderness. It wasn’t surprising that she was wary of Xueyi.

Suddenly, a chill ran down Mu Zhian’s spine, and he looked up at the beautiful, innocent woman.

For a moment, he felt like prey being stalked.

Xueyi blinked her moist, innocent eyes and tilted her head slightly. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing.”

Under Xueyi’s gentle gaze, Mu Zhian averted his eyes, pretending to be flustered, and remained silent.

A faint smile appeared on Xueyi’s lips. “The time I can remain materialized is limited. I’ll go meditate and rest now.”

She glanced at the empty teacup on the table. “It seems there’s no more tea. Why don’t you have someone refill it?”

After speaking, Xueyi returned to the storage ring.

Lan Feiying glanced at Mu Zhian and nodded with a smile. “I have something to discuss with you, Little Brother Mu. I’ll go refill the tea.”

She lifted the curtain and left with sensual steps.

Mu Zhian closed his eyes, processing the overwhelming information.

Lan Feiying was the Chosen One chosen by the Heavenly Dao, capable of stealing the luck of others…

But she had told him this herself, which meant she harbored no ill intentions… After all, Feiying was someone he had trusted since his days in Tianxuan City.

But the Heavenly Dao wasn’t foolish. Why would it choose a Chosen One who was so friendly towards him?

Could it be a honey trap?

Hmph, they underestimate me… I would never fall for a honey trap unless it involved fishnet stockings and high heels!

The storage ring on the table glowed faintly, and the elegant figure of a mature, dignified woman appeared.

Mu Zhian opened his eyes in surprise. “Senior Xueyi? Is there anything else? Feiying hasn’t returned yet.”

The Fourth Pillar God of the Southern Wilderness, her beautiful face filled with worry, sighed softly. “Although I managed to escape the Abyss Palace, I’m just a weak wisp of consciousness, and I could dissipate at any moment.”

“If I can’t find the body I prepared in the Southern Wilderness, I won’t last much longer.”

Mu Zhian was stunned. “The Abyss can even trap a Dao Integration expert?”

Xueyi said softly, “The Abyss is filled with complex formations, each containing countless smaller formations. I ventured into the Abyss seeking a way to break through to the Dao Integration realm, but I was trapped by the formations within the coffin.”

“If it weren’t for you and Ye Yu, I might still be trapped there.”

Mu Zhian was curious. “Senior, do you know the identity of the person in the coffin?”

Xueyi shook her head slowly. “I’ve never seen them.”

The tall goddess of the Southern Wilderness sat gracefully beside Mu Zhian. She wore a seductive red dress and a fluffy cloak. Although her attire was alluring, her face was innocent and beautiful, and her moist eyes evoked pity.

Xueyi gently caressed Mu Zhian’s face, a seductive glint in her eyes. “Young Master Mu, you are an Innate Celestial Furnace and incredibly talented. Can you help me in the future? You’re the only one I can rely on.”

Her sweet, gentle voice and the intoxicating fragrance emanating from her were like a siren’s call, captivating and mesmerizing.

Mu Zhian seemed to be truly captivated by her, gazing into her seductive, moist eyes.

After a long moment, he blushed and lowered his head. “I’ll do my best, but please don’t do this, Senior… I-I already have Dao Companions.”

“It’s just a request for help. What are you thinking, Young Master Mu?” Xueyi chuckled softly.

A playful, predatory glint flashed in her beautiful eyes.

Mu Zhian hesitated for a moment, then nodded reservedly. “Alright… I understand. I’ll do my best.”

“That’s wonderful. I’m so happy.”

Xueyi smiled and clapped her hands gently.

“But Senior, what exactly do you need help with?” Mu Zhian feigned confusion.

“I’m looking for a body. If I go to the Southern Wilderness, I might be able to find it,” Xueyi said softly.

Mu Zhian asked curiously, “Do you know the name of the person whose body you’re looking for, Senior Xueyi? I have some influence in the Eastern Continent. Perhaps I can help.”

“If those three evil gods of the Southern Wilderness kept their promise, she should be the Holy Maiden of the Southern Wilderness,” Xueyi said.

The image of the frail beauty flashed through Mu Zhian’s mind, and his eyes flickered.

Just then, the sound of high heels clicking against the floor came from outside. Xueyi said softly, “Young Master Mu, the time I can remain outside the ring is limited. I won’t disturb you and Feiying any longer. I’ll find you another time.”

Her beautiful figure silently returned to the storage ring. Lan Feiying entered the room with alluring steps, her red cheongsam accentuating her figure. Mu Zhian’s gaze immediately fell on her long, fair legs revealed beneath the slit in her cheongsam.

Beautiful, but unfortunately, he couldn’t see more, as the cheongsam was too tight… Mu Zhian looked up and smiled. “Judging from the commotion outside, it seems the alchemy competition has ended?”

Lan Feiying gave him a seductive look. “Why are you asking? Are you eager to see your Lingxuan?”

Mu Zhian met her gaze, smiling. “Just making conversation. Are you jealous, Feiying?”

“Do I seem like the type of woman who gets jealous?”

As their gazes locked, Lan Feiying seemed unwilling to back down, staring at Mu Zhian as if trying to intimidate him.

However, after a moment, she averted her gaze, a faint blush coloring her face. “Don’t you have anything to ask me?”

Mu Zhian poured her a cup of tea. “It’s a good thing that you’re favored by the Heavenly Dao, Feiying.”

“As for Ye Yu… although it’s a pity, since it was you, it’s fine.”

If he had been the one to eliminate Ye Yu, his Innate Celestial Furnace could have absorbed Ye Yu’s luck and given it to other ‘protagonists.’

But it wasn’t unacceptable that Lan Feiying had obtained Ye Yu’s luck.

“I only stole Ye Yu’s luck, but I can’t handle any more,” Lan Feiying said, glancing at Mu Zhian lazily. “I was thinking of transferring it to you if you were interested.”

Mu Zhian was stunned. “Besides the Spiritual Dragon, can anyone transfer luck to others…?”

“The Spiritual Dragon is the most favored creature in heaven and earth. I can give luck to others not because I’m favored by heaven and earth.”

Lan Feiying smiled. “If you sign an Equality Contract with me, I can transfer Ye Yu’s luck to you completely.”

She glanced at the item displayed on her system interface.

[Equality Contract: After signing a contract with a living being, you can sense their location and share a portion of your luck with them.]

Mu Zhian looked at Lan Feiying intently, then nodded. “I don’t mind, but won’t you feel bad about losing your luck, Feiying?”

A smile appeared in Lan Feiying’s eyes. “I don’t mind… But don’t you suspect there’s something wrong with the contract? Normally, an Equality Contract can’t share luck.”

“You said ‘normally,’” Mu Zhian smiled faintly. “Your contract is a system item, isn’t it?”

Lan Feiying licked her lips, savoring his words. “So you knew.”

She took a piece of parchment from her bosom and placed it on the table. “Infuse your spiritual energy into this parchment.”

Mu Zhian placed his hand on the parchment and channeled his spiritual energy into it.

“Is this enough?” he asked.

He couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder.

After dealing with two male Chosen Ones, he had encountered a female Chosen One who was already close to him… It was quite a strange turn of events.

Lan Feiying nodded slightly. “As long as I infuse my spiritual energy as well, the contract will be complete.”

She circulated her spiritual energy, preparing to infuse it into the contract.

However, as she did, she realized that the contract wasn’t reacting at all.

Lan Feiying’s eyes flickered. She picked up the parchment and scanned it with her consciousness. There was no trace of Mu Zhian’s spiritual energy within it.

How is this possible…?

The contract couldn’t be activated?

A brief silence fell over the room. Mu Zhian hesitated, looking at Lan Feiying’s troubled expression. “What’s wrong, Feiying?”

Lan Feiying looked at Mu Zhian with disbelief, her mouth slightly agape. “I can’t sign the contract with you…”

Mu Zhian hesitated. “Could it be because of the Heavenly Dao?”

Lan Feiying shook her head gently. “Impossible. The system isn’t under the control of the Heavenly Dao, and neither are the system items. Besides, the Heavenly Dao can’t directly interfere with a cultivator’s actions, only influence them indirectly.”

“But there shouldn’t be any restrictions on this contract…” Lan Feiying murmured.

“Then why do you think this is happening?” Mu Zhian picked up the parchment contract and asked.

After a brief silence, Lan Feiying said softly, “This contract has no restrictions, except for one.”

She took the parchment from Mu Zhian and pointed at a line of text.

“Sign a contract with a living being…”

“A living being…” Mu Zhian murmured.

His expression froze.

Chapter 378: The Chosen One… Is My Wife? 

I am an Innate Celestial Furnace, and you are also an Innate Celestial Furnace…

Even a fool could understand the implications of these words, and Mu Zhian was no exception.

However, he felt that something wasn’t quite right.

Someone like Luo Tan couldn’t have never encountered the Innate Celestial Furnace constitution before.

But she was particularly interested in him…

It seemed she had guessed that the spiritual energy within his cauldron wasn’t from the Nine Provinces…

Mu Zhian took a sip of tea, discreetly observing her.

Although she was just a wisp of consciousness, she looked no different from a normal woman.

No, the only difference was that although her attire wasn’t revealing, it exuded a sensual aura.

A faint, sweet fragrance emanated from her. Her white dress hugged her figure, and her long, jade-like legs were encased in black silk. She leaned against her hand, a bright smile on her face.

Her long, wavy hair cascaded down, framing her delicate features, which were adorned with light makeup. Her lips, moistened by the tea, were luscious and inviting.

Hmm, her figure is similar to Sister Jade Empress, her appearance is a nine out of ten, and most importantly, she’s wearing black silk!

“I’m not that kind of person,” Mu Zhian said reservedly. “You should already know about my relationship with the Jade Empress…”

Despite his words, he had to admit that the Empress of Yu State’s attire was very appealing to him.

Skin as white as snow, a white dress paired with black silk… I should have Ruoxi try that sometime.

Among the girls he knew, Bai Ruoxi was the most suitable. Mengrou and Senior Sister Lan could also try it, but given their personalities, it might take some time to convince them to play dress-up.

Luo Tan’s eyes flickered, a faint smile playing on her lips. “I know about your relationship with the Jade Empress, but what about your interaction with the Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Zone on the alchemy platform not long ago?”

“Also, I heard from Shuixian that you already had a Dao Companion back in Tianxuan City.”

She looked into Mu Zhian’s eyes. “And Gong Lianyue’s consciousness resides within her.”

So you’ve done your homework and are deliberately teasing me… Mu Zhian maintained his smile. “As expected of Empress Luo Tan, you’re truly wise. Gong Lianyue’s consciousness does indeed reside within Ruoxi.”

“I’m not asking you to make a decision right now. I’m just giving you another option.”

Luo Tan smiled. “You already have Dao Companions, but if I’m not mistaken, the Jade Empress came later.”

Mu Zhian hesitated. “Why did you choose me? If it’s because of the Innate Celestial Furnace, you must have encountered others with the same constitution before.”

“I’ve encountered the Innate Celestial Furnace constitution several times, but this is the first time I’ve seen one that can evolve and even absorb spiritual energy from the Heavenly Court.”

Luo Tan tapped the table lightly with her slender finger and looked at Mu Zhian with a smile. “I can’t guarantee that you’ll reach the Dao Integration realm, but I can at least help you reach the Nascent Soul realm within a month.”

Mu Zhian was skeptical. “Normally, even the most talented cultivators need a long time to reach the Nascent Soul realm, and it also depends on their comprehension and fate. Reaching the Nascent Soul realm within a month… Are you serious?”

“Under normal circumstances, it would indeed take years or even decades, depending on one’s fate.”

Luo Tan said softly, “However, Young Master Mu, you should know what my constitution is.”

She took a sip of tea and pushed the cup towards Mu Zhian.

Mu Zhian glanced at her and, at her smiling gesture, took a small sip.

Boom!

Instantly, a surge of rich spiritual energy filled his body, making him let out a moan of pleasure.

He looked up at Luo Tan in astonishment. “Your Innate Celestial Furnace can directly benefit me?”

So this is what the spiritual energy of an Innate Celestial Furnace feels like?

A Dao Integration level Innate Celestial Furnace was far more powerful than he had imagined.

Just a wisp of spiritual energy could enhance his cultivation.

If they were to complement each other…

In the past, Mu Zhian had always given the spiritual energy from his Innate Celestial Furnace to others, but he had never known what it tasted like.

Now, just a taste of Luo Tan’s Innate Celestial Furnace’s spiritual energy was intoxicating.

A breathtakingly beautiful smile appeared on Luo Tan’s face. Her white boots accentuated her long legs, and her silver eyes sparkled with amusement.

“Do you like it?”

Mu Zhian was silent for a long time, then said softly, “It would be hypocritical of me to say I don’t.”

He paused, then continued, “However, I can’t go to Yu State with you right now. I’ll go myself after I finish my business here.”

“Also, I’d like to ask you to refine a pill for me.”

“A pill? What kind of pill?” Luo Tan asked.

Mu Zhian looked into her eyes. “The Supreme Clarity Pill.”

“I know you’re capable of refining it. As for the ingredients, I’ll gather them and bring them to Yu State.”

Luo Tan narrowed her eyes. “If I’m not mistaken, the Supreme Clarity Pill is a Rank 9 pill, and it’s only useful for demon cultivators… What do you need it for?”

Mu Zhian was about to speak when a white figure suddenly appeared beside him.

A slender, jade-like finger pressed against his chest. She chuckled softly. “Well, if you want the Supreme Clarity Pill, I’ll keep an eye out for its ingredients.”

“Thank you, Sister. I’ll repay you when I go to Yu State!” Mu Zhian said respectfully.

“I’ve heard countless verbal thanks throughout my life.”

Luo Tan scoffed, then leaned forward, grabbing Mu Zhian’s collar, her ample bosom pressing against his arm. She brought her lips close to his ear and whispered, “If you want to repay me, come to Yu State soon.”

“And… remember, this is our little secret.”

The Pill Emperor of Yu State, who had just moments ago exuded the aura of an unapproachable Empress, now radiated a sweet, seductive charm.

Her slightly moist eyes and parted lips were close to his ear, and her fragrance filled the air, incredibly tempting.

Mu Zhian’s throat tightened as he looked into her eyes.

Their gazes locked for a moment, then Luo Tan placed her hand on the back of his head, leaned down, and gently kissed him on the lips.

Mu Zhian’s eyes widened, then he felt Luo Tan’s spiritual energy flowing into his cauldron.

It was rich and vast, intoxicatingly sweet.

No wonder people were so obsessed with the spiritual energy of an Innate Celestial Furnace.

Soft lips, warm breath on his face, and her faint fragrance filled his senses.

Before Mu Zhian could savor the moment, the beauty had already withdrawn.

She licked her lips, a sweet smile on her face. “This is my first gift to you, and a token of my sincerity.”

Mu Zhian blinked, staring at the elegant beauty.

“What’s wrong? Why do you look like you’re seeing me for the first time?” Luo Tan asked, glancing at him.

It’s just that your forwardness is a bit… unexpected… Mu Zhian was speechless.

Luo Tan seemed to guess his thoughts, a smile in her eyes. “I’ll see you in Yu State.”

Her slender figure disappeared from the room. Mu Zhian leaned back in his chair, closed his eyes, and sighed softly.

Older sisters are truly wonderful…

He opened his palm, feeling the rich spiritual energy flowing through his body.

This was the ‘gift’ Luo Tan had mentioned. In just a few days, he could completely convert this spiritual energy into his own.

After that, his realm would likely increase by at least one rank.

The complementary nature of Innate Celestial Furnaces was indeed tempting.

If this continued, even without cultivating, just complementing each other… would be greatly beneficial for both parties.

Mu Zhian closed his eyes, calming his racing heart.

…

Meanwhile, Luo Tan had silently left the pavilion and returned to the hall where she was staying.

Her maid was waiting for her. Seeing Luo Tan’s appearance, she was stunned. “Your Majesty… your face is a bit red. What happened?”

A faint blush colored Luo Tan’s usually flawless face, a stark contrast to her usual elegant composure.

Did Mu Zhian do something inappropriate…?

A ridiculous thought crossed the maid’s mind, but she quickly shook her head, dismissing it.

Luo Tan’s gaze calmed, and she shook her head gently. “Don’t mind it. It’s nothing.”

The maid hesitated. “But your wisp of consciousness seems much weaker…”

Luo Tan said calmly, “I gave Mu Zhian some spiritual energy, that’s all.”

“And it doesn’t matter even if this wisp of consciousness dissipates.”

The maid hummed in response, then froze, staring at the elegant Empress.

“Gave Mu Zhian spiritual energy…?”

Her Majesty is an Innate Celestial Furnace. Giving someone spiritual energy… doesn’t that mean…?

“Go and make preparations. We’ll be leaving the Eastern Continent tomorrow,” Luo Tan said, her eyes downcast, still pondering the events of the day.

Putting aside the question of how Mu Zhian obtained Heavenly Court spiritual energy, the reason she valued him so much, even inviting him today, was because she saw potential in him.

The potential for a breakthrough.

The Dao Integration realm was the pinnacle of cultivation. Going further wasn’t achievable through normal cultivation.

As long as one’s body remained within heaven and earth, they were bound by its rules. Breaking free through conventional methods was impossible.

But with the Innate Celestial Furnace… things might be different.

Especially since Mu Zhian’s Innate Celestial Furnace was so special, capable of evolving…

At the Core Formation realm, it could help a Nascent Soul cultivator. What if he reached the Soul Transformation realm, or even the Dao Integration realm?

The Jade Empress was indeed the Jade Empress. Many questioned her judgment, wondering why she had chosen him, a mere Core Formation cultivator…

However, judging from the current situation, her judgment wasn’t bad at all…

Luo Tan sighed softly.

Although Mu Zhian had seemed quite interested in her today, he still couldn’t compare to the Jade Empress, who had known him earlier.

She could only wait until he arrived in Yu State and take things slowly.

…

Meanwhile, in a private room within the pavilion on Boundless Sea Peak.

From the room, one could see the towering pavilions in the distance. Looking down, one could see the main peak of Boundless Sea Peak, shrouded in spiritual energy, with spirit beasts soaring through the sky and unknown immortal flowers blooming.

A woman in a red cheongsam leaned against the table, admiring the scenery outside.

Lan Mulian had left not long ago, but Lan Feiying remained, enjoying the bustling activity outside.

Suddenly, she seemed to sense something and turned her head slightly, transmitting her voice to someone.

“Feiying, what are you doing here?”

Shortly after hearing Lan Feiying’s voice transmission, Mu Zhian followed the sound, lifted the curtain of the private room, and saw the mature beauty leaning against the table, her ample bosom resting on the surface.

She was as alluring and beautiful as ever. Seeing Mu Zhian enter, a faint smile appeared in her eyes. “What a coincidence, running into our busybody here.”

With Senior Sister Lan not present, Mu Zhian entered the room and sat down beside Lan Feiying.

“I participated in the alchemy competition today and came to the pavilion to rest for a while. Why are you here, Feiying?” Mu Zhian asked curiously.

After not seeing her for a while, he felt like he couldn’t quite understand this woman anymore.

With his Innate Spiritual Body, he couldn’t even see through her current realm.

Lan Feiying sat up and stretched languidly, her tight cheongsam accentuating her curves.

She looked at Mu Zhian with a smile. “You smell of a woman. It seems you were just being intimate with someone in the pavilion.”

Feiying’s senses are so sharp… Mu Zhian was surprised, but maintained a calm expression. “I’ve been using scented balms lately. What you smell must be the balm.”

“Speaking of which, Sister did mention that you gave her a box of scented balm…” Lan Feiying said thoughtfully.

Mu Zhian put his arm around Lan Feiying’s slender waist. “If you like it, Feiying, I’ll prepare one for you next time I go to Tianxuan City.”

Lan Feiying smiled faintly, glancing at him. “You’ve always been good at pleasing women. No wonder Sister likes you.”

Mu Zhian coughed lightly. “Senior Sister Lan is my Senior Sister. Our relationship is complicated, not what you imagine.”

“Heh.”

Lan Feiying rolled her eyes at him. “Do you really only see her as a Senior Sister? Don’t you know your own feelings?”

“I do see her as a Senior Sister,” Mu Zhian insisted.

“Then close your eyes,” Lan Feiying said.

Mu Zhian hesitated, then closed his eyes.

“Now, don’t imagine the scene of you pressing Sister and me onto the bed,” Lan Feiying said, a seductive smile playing on her lips as she stared at Mu Zhian.

Mu Zhian: “…”

He opened his eyes helplessly. “You know that saying that will only make me imagine it.”

“It just proves that you have impure motives,” Lan Feiying chuckled.

“Actually, if your cultivation surpasses Sister’s and mine in the future, perhaps it could really happen.”

Lan Feiying crossed her legs, looking at Mu Zhian with a teasing smile.

Mu Zhian glanced at her. Her red cheongsam accentuated her alluring figure, revealing her long, fair legs. Her skin seemed to shimmer like ice crystals under the light.

Mu Zhian was stunned, staring into her eyes, but he couldn’t detect any fluctuation in her emotions, as if she had just said something completely ordinary.

“When I become stronger, I’ll subdue you first, you little vixen,” Mu Zhian said, placing his hand on Lan Feiying’s leg.

Her skin was cool and soft to the touch, sending a shiver down his spine.

Lan Feiying licked her lips, giggling. Instead of retreating, she leaned closer to his ear and whispered, “I’m looking forward to it.”

This little vixen…

If it weren’t for the wrong time and place, Mu Zhian almost couldn’t resist taking her right then and there.

After chatting with Lan Feiying for a while, Mu Zhian suddenly remembered something important. “By the way, a sect disciple died recently. Even within the Two Polarities Sect, it might not be completely safe. You should be careful, Feiying.”

Lan Feiying’s eyes flickered, and she chuckled softly. “You’re quite concerned about Sister, aren’t you~?”

“After all, you’re my favorite woman,” Mu Zhian said seriously, looking at her beautiful face.

All the girls in his heart held the first place…

However, Lan Feiying didn’t tease him as usual. The smile on her face faded.

“If you see this, will you still say that?” Her voice suddenly lowered as she took a ring from her storage ring.

Mu Zhian was stunned. “What are you talking about, Feiying…?”

Before he could finish, Lan Feiying opened her palm.

Seeing the ring in her hand, Mu Zhian’s eyes widened, and he stared at her intently.

“This is…?”

“Don’t you already know?”

Lan Feiying leaned against the armrest of her chair, tilting her head and smiling. “This is Ye Yu’s storage ring.”

“The Chosen One you’re looking for is right here.”

Chapter 377: Does the Pill Emperor Want to Keep Me?

Jade Pool Holy Land.

Within a secluded pavilion, vast spiritual energy swirled like a vortex, causing the Divine Pool outside to ripple and emanate a rich aura.

Yao Meng sat before the ancient coffin, dressed in a green dress. Her features were as exquisite as a jade carving, and she forced a calm expression onto her flawless face.

However, her tightly pursed lips and the cold glint in her eyes revealed that the Jade Empress was rarely this angry.

She had only been in seclusion for a few days, and her home had been robbed…?

And the thief hadn’t even left any scraps, taking everything, including the person she cherished.

Yao Meng stared at the Jade Pool Matriarch, a long silence hanging in the air before she finally spoke. “Do you know who he left with?”

There were no signs of a struggle, and she had woken up safely inside the mysterious ancient coffin.

It was clear that Mu Zhian hadn’t been taken by force, but had left willingly.

The Jade Pool Matriarch shook her head slowly. “I don’t know. I only know that they rode a Dragon Sparrow from the Jade Pool Holy Land and headed towards the Two Polarities Sect.”

“He returned to the Two Polarities Sect?”

Yao Meng breathed a sigh of relief.

As long as he hadn’t left the Eastern Continent, it wasn’t a big deal. She could find him later.

“What is he doing at the Two Polarities Sect?”

“A few days ago, the Ascension Ceremony concluded, and Lan Mulian, a disciple of the Two Polarities Sect Master, won the final match. The Pill Emperor of Yu State wanted to take this opportunity to hold an alchemy competition. According to the news from Yao Yue, Young Master Mu seems to be participating,” the Jade Pool Matriarch explained.

“Does he even know alchemy?” Yao Meng murmured.

No… He must be using his special spiritual energy for alchemy.

“If you’re worried, Jade Empress, I can send someone to check. Or do you intend to go personally?” the Jade Pool Matriarch asked with a warm smile.

“No need.”

Yao Meng shook her head. “I was worried that he might be in danger if he left the Eastern Continent, but if he’s just at the Two Polarities Sect, there’s no rush to find him.”

Yao Meng’s attempt to appear indifferent was unconvincing. She looked at the Jade Pool Matriarch. “Besides, those old geezers in seclusion in the Nine Provinces are quite sharp. When I glimpsed the Transcendence Realm earlier, the shackles of heaven and earth bound me. If you could sense the anomaly here, so could others.”

“I need to prepare the formations in the Jade Pool Holy Land these next few days, so I can use them to comprehend and attempt to break through to the Transcendence Realm.”

Despite her explanation, it felt like she still wanted to go to the Two Polarities Sect… The Jade Pool Matriarch’s expression was subtle. She gave Yao Meng a meaningful look and couldn’t help but sigh.

“The Jade Empress is truly fond of him.”

Countless cultivators in the Nine Provinces had pursued the Jade Empress, and even Dao Integration experts were tempted by her Innate Dao Body, but none had captured her heart.

Yet now, a Core Formation cultivator had succeeded, and she cared so much for him, completely smitten…

“If it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t have been able to touch the threshold of the Transcendence Realm and gain a glimpse of it,” Yao Meng said softly.

The Jade Pool Matriarch’s eyes widened in surprise. “Jade Empress, you mean… you were able to reach the Transcendence Realm because of Mu Zhian?”

“Could it be related to the Innate Celestial Furnace?”

She knew that Mu Zhian’s Innate Celestial Furnace was special, but cultivators with the Innate Celestial Furnace constitution weren’t unheard of in the Nine Provinces.

Although dual cultivating with someone possessing the Innate Celestial Furnace could greatly replenish one’s spiritual energy, it shouldn’t be this exaggerated, to the point of even helping a Dao Integration expert break through the shackles of heaven and earth and surpass the limits of cultivation.

A brief silence fell over the room.

Yao Meng casually observed the Jade Pool Matriarch’s subtle expression. Although this beautiful woman had cultivated for hundreds of years, there were no traces of age on her.

Her skin was still firm, and her well-maintained figure exuded the mature charm of a ripe peach, full and voluptuous.

Aside from the Jade Empress and the innocent Yao Xin, the Jade Pool Matriarch was considered one of the most beautiful women in the Jade Pool Holy Land.

Yao Meng looked away and said calmly, “The news I announced at the Two Polarities Sect not long ago should have spread throughout the Eastern Continent. Since he is now my Dao Companion, we will be married in a month.”

Yao Meng smiled at the Jade Pool Matriarch. “Do you have any suggestions?”

The Jade Pool Matriarch quickly recovered and pondered for a moment, then smiled gently. “The marriage is a pretense, a trap for others, but I believe your feelings for Young Master Mu are genuine. Even if it’s a fake marriage, it can become real.”

The ever-evolving Innate Celestial Furnace was indeed tempting, but since he was the Jade Empress’s Dao Companion, she could only suppress her thoughts.

The Jade Pool Matriarch then said worriedly, “However, if you truly intend to break free from the shackles of heaven and earth and achieve supreme Dao fruition, you might attract many demons and monsters during your breakthrough.”

The last time the Jade Empress had reconstructed her celestial body, a hidden Dao Integration expert had intervened to stop her. If, as she claimed, she had reached the threshold of the Transcendence Realm… could the old monsters of the Nine Provinces tolerate her?

Even just a glimpse of the Transcendence Realm was enough to inspire fear.

The Dao Integration experts of the Nine Provinces had been at peace, but now, if they discovered that one of them had found a way to break free from the shackles of heaven and earth and even planned to break through…

Even if the Jade Empress claimed she had no intention of conquering other territories, she would still be viewed as an enemy by some.

When she attempted to break through to the Transcendence Realm, the Jade Pool Holy Land would likely be in turmoil…

Yao Meng spoke softly, “I’ve encountered demons and monsters before. This marriage is meant to eliminate some of the trouble in advance.”

“Do you plan to attempt the breakthrough in the next few days?” the Jade Pool Matriarch couldn’t help but ask.

Yao Meng smiled without answering.

Although every inch of her skin radiated a holy glow and her smile was gentle, the Jade Pool Matriarch couldn’t shake the feeling that this celestial maiden was… scheming.

“Rather than such trivial matters, I’m more interested in his ranking in the alchemy competition. Did Yao Yue mention it?” Yao Meng asked casually.

“Yao Yue’s news was from before the competition began. But if I remember correctly, Young Master Mu doesn’t know alchemy,” the Jade Pool Matriarch said.

“He doesn’t understand alchemy,” Yao Meng raised an eyebrow, covering her mouth with a chuckle. “But he has many tricks up his sleeve.”

If Mu Zhian was refining pills, he couldn’t actively use the spiritual energy in his Innate Celestial Furnace, but his own cauldron also contained Heavenly Court spiritual energy.

Spiritual energy and pills were linked. If he used Heavenly Court spiritual energy, the pills he refined wouldn’t be too bad.

Knowing Mu Zhian, he wouldn’t participate in the alchemy competition without some confidence.

“Forget it. After I finish preparing the formations in the next few days, I’ll go to the Two Polarities Sect myself.”

Yao Meng smiled faintly. “I’ll bring him back to get married and have him play a role in my little play.”

But if this fake marriage turned into a real one… it wouldn’t be a bad thing.

…

Two Polarities Sect.

The Two Polarities Sect seemed much quieter today. During the Ascension Ceremony, cultivators flying on swords were a common sight, but today, few cultivators could be seen around the main peaks.

It wasn’t because the Ascension Ceremony had ended, but because all the cultivators were gathered near the alchemy platform on Boundless Sea Peak.

Pavilions stood on either side of the alchemy platform, filled with cultivators. Even the area below the platform was crowded with cultivators from ancient clans.

They observed the alchemists on stage, transmitting their voices to the elders of their families, discussing the alchemists they favored.

Although Mu Zhian’s alchemy today was noteworthy, he wasn’t within the consideration of the ancient clans.

After all, with the Jade Empress’s protection and his ambiguous relationship with the Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Zone, he wouldn’t lack resources and wouldn’t accept their invitations.

After giving Ye Lingxuan his special spiritual energy, Mu Zhian stepped off the alchemy platform and quickly found Bai Ruoxi in a corner of the crowd.

She wore a gentle expression, her white palace dress clinging to her figure. Her hair was tied up with a jade hairpin, and a strand of hair fell loose, swaying in the cold wind, adding to her delicate, pitiful appearance.

“Mu Lang, your performance today was truly eye-catching. Although you didn’t win the competition, everyone is talking about you,” Bai Ruoxi said with a smile as Mu Zhian approached.

Her expression was normal, as if nothing had happened.

However, her seemingly gentle voice sent a chill down Mu Zhian’s spine.

“It was an emergency. If I hadn’t helped, Nigati would have won,” Mu Zhian said, tucking a strand of hair behind Bai Ruoxi’s ear.

Bai Ruoxi hummed softly, appearing obedient and smiling. “I know. I believe Mu Lang isn’t the type to show off in front of so many people.”

Mu Zhian felt a surge of warmth in his heart.

He hadn’t misjudged her. Ruoxi was indeed understanding and gentle.

“If it weren’t for the circumstances, Mu Lang would have been intimate with Lingxuan in private, not in front of so many people,” Bai Ruoxi added with a faint smile.

Mu Zhian: “…”

“He’s always been like this. Even if he’s intimate with a girl, he wouldn’t be so high-profile,” Wei Mengrou added coldly, glaring at Mu Zhian.

Mu Zhian couldn’t refute her words.

Both Bai Ruoxi and Wei Mengrou knew his character well. They knew he wasn’t the type to be openly intimate with a girl in this setting.

But if it were in private… he wouldn’t be so restrained.

Fortunately, Bai Ruoxi knew that this wasn’t the right time to punish him. She looked towards the stage. “Lingxuan has won.”

Mu Zhian looked up. The other alchemists had finished, and Ye Lingxuan had also passed her pill tribulation. A flawless Rank 7 pill was presented before everyone.

It emitted a faint, multicolored glow, and its medicinal fragrance was incredibly rich, mixed with a potent spiritual energy.

Although it hadn’t been enhanced by the Innate Celestial Furnace, the Heavenly Court spiritual energy alone made it incredibly alluring.

“It seems the winner of the alchemy competition has been decided.”

At that moment, a beautiful, noble woman appeared at the alchemy platform.

“Empress Luo Tan.”

Respectful voices echoed from the platform.

Luo Tan looked around, then at the Rank 7 pill in Ye Lingxuan’s hand, a smile in her eyes. “Your control of spiritual energy is exquisite, just as I expected.”

The first Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Zone to perfectly inherit the Innate Spiritual Body was indeed incredibly talented.

Among the alchemists, Ye Lingxuan’s control of spiritual energy was the most refined, without any waste.

This was crucial for an alchemist.

“Thank you for your praise,” Ye Lingxuan bowed slightly.

Luo Tan gestured to her maid, who immediately understood. “Miss Lingxuan, please come with me.”

She then smiled politely at Nigati, who had placed second, and the third-place alchemist, gesturing for them to follow her to receive their rewards.

Nigati glared at Mu Zhian below.

He felt that Mu Zhian’s kiss with the Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Zone wasn’t as simple as it seemed, but since Luo Tan hadn’t said anything, if he questioned it now, wouldn’t he be questioning her decision as well?

He could only swallow his anger.

Meanwhile, Mu Zhian was comforting the two beauties beside him when he suddenly heard a maid’s voice transmission.

“Young Master Mu, Empress Luo Tan requests your presence at the Precious Flower Pavilion.”

The Precious Flower Pavilion was one of the pavilions near the alchemy platform.

Why is Luo Tan looking for me? I haven’t even approached her yet… Mu Zhian quickly reacted and nodded with a smile.

He turned to the two beauties beside him. “Ruoxi, Mengrou, I have something to attend to. We’ll talk later.”

He couldn’t miss this opportunity… After all, the difference between a Three-Tailed Fox and a Nine-Tailed Fox was immense.

He had to obtain the Supreme Clarity Pill, no matter the cost.

…

After excusing himself, Mu Zhian quickly sensed the unique aura emanating from Luo Tan within the bustling pavilion.

He ascended to the pavilion and soon found the Empress of Yu State in a private room.

She sat with her legs crossed, her elaborate white dress embroidered with gold and silver thread. A luxurious, round spirit jade hung from her waist, and her black silk-clad legs were encased in pristine white boots, tapping lightly against the floor.

She was breathtakingly beautiful, her demeanor noble and elegant, with an air of undeniable authority.

“Young Master Mu, is your spiritual energy depleted?” Luo Tan asked with a smile.

“It’s fine. I only consumed a little. It’s nothing,” Mu Zhian replied, sitting down opposite her at her gesture.

Luo Tan nodded with a smile. “That’s good to hear.”

She was already incredibly beautiful, but the light makeup she wore, the touch of red at the corners of her eyes, her slightly pursed lips, and the faint smile in her phoenix eyes made her even more alluring.

“I wonder why Your Majesty has summoned me today?” Mu Zhian asked tentatively, his gaze lingering on her beautiful face.

“Logically, Lingxuan should have won today. Nigati and Tang Sufi also performed well…”

Luo Tan smiled faintly. “I am indeed interested in the Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Zone… but I’m also interested in you.”

Mu Zhian hesitated. “Your Majesty, what do you mean…?”

“You’re a smart man. I won’t beat around the bush.”

Luo Tan smiled and said sincerely, “I wish to take you back to Yu State to cultivate for a few years. What do you think, Young Master Mu?”

Mu Zhian had a vague guess and discreetly observed the elegant woman. “Why me…?”

He had expected Luo Tan to say that she admired his talent, but her next words stunned him.

“You are an Innate Celestial Furnace, and so am I.”

Luo Tan paused. “As for why I’m interested in you…?”

She traced the back of Mu Zhian’s hand with her slender finger, resting her chin on her other hand, and looked at him playfully.

“What do you think?”

Chapter 376: Seeking Subscriptions! The Jade Empress Breaks Through, The First Transcendence Realm Cultivator?p2

Mu Zhian looked at the pill in Nigati’s cauldron with amusement. “A Hundred Refinements Flower can indeed increase the rank and quality of a pill.”

Nigati scoffed. “Young Master Mu, don’t accuse me of cheating. You can only blame yourselves for not being prepared enough.”

“Of course not. After all, the Hundred Refinements Flower is also considered a medicinal herb,” Mu Zhian smiled.

Even Nigati was stunned by these words.

He had expected Mu Zhian to be angry, but unexpectedly, he was actually speaking up for him?

The disgruntled voices of the other alchemists also quieted down.

Logically, Mu Zhian, as a ‘victim,’ should be dissatisfied with Nigati’s use of the special herb, but he was actually defending him…?

All the cultivators hesitated.

Ye Lingxuan also looked at Mu Zhian, confusion in her beautiful purple eyes.

In this strange silence, Mu Zhian put away his cauldron, placed the special pill he had refined into a box, and walked towards Ye Lingxuan.

“Brother Mu…?” Ye Lingxuan whispered as he approached.

Sensing the gentle look in his eyes, a rare flicker of panic flashed in her eyes. “W-What are you doing?”

Mu Zhian looked at the young woman in the purple dress and said softly, “You’ve been refusing me all this time. It shouldn’t be too much for me to collect some interest now, right?”

Ye Lingxuan paused, glancing at the crowd below. “Let’s wait until the competition is over…”

Mu Zhian chuckled softly. “It will be too late then.”

Nigati frowned. “Young Master Mu, isn’t it inappropriate to be intimate with a girl in this setting?”

“Do I need the Holy Son of the Southern Wilderness’s permission to be intimate with whomever I please?” Mu Zhian said with a laugh.

Although he was smiling, he felt a chill run down his spine as he sensed several cold gazes directed at him.

He knew that with such a grand event, Senior Sister Ruoxi and the others must be watching…

But Mu Zhian maintained his usual elegant demeanor and calm smile.

Then, under the stunned gazes of the crowd, he leaned down and gently kissed Ye Lingxuan on her lips.

Ye Lingxuan’s eyes widened in surprise.

But soon, she felt a unique spiritual energy flowing into her body.

This warm energy cleared her mind, and she seemed to understand something. Her eyes flickered, and she wrapped her arms around Mu Zhian’s neck, responding to his passion.

A moment later, they parted.

Mu Zhian stretched languidly and bowed towards the pavilion. “I apologize for interrupting the alchemy competition. I feel ashamed and have decided to withdraw. I hope Empress Luo Tan will forgive me.”

He then jumped off the alchemy platform.

What is Mu Zhian doing…?

Almost instantly, the same thought crossed the minds of countless cultivators.

We know you have a close relationship with the Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Zone, but is it necessary to be so intimate with her in front of so many people?

Isn’t this just inviting jealousy?

And his other admirers are watching below. If news of this reaches the Jade Empress… isn’t he afraid of being locked up?

While everyone’s attention was focused on Mu Zhian, they failed to notice Ye Lingxuan circulating the Heavenly Court spiritual energy she had just received, channeling it into her Rank 6 pill…

Nigati was also stunned by Mu Zhian’s sudden actions. It took him a long time to recover.

He took a deep breath and exhaled slowly.

Calm down… The important thing is the alchemy competition. Don’t be affected by Mu Zhian’s actions…

Nigati quickly suppressed his jealousy and calmed down, focusing on the cauldron before him.

His Rank 7 Foundation Solidification Pill was almost complete!

Everyone else also noticed this and shifted their attention to Nigati’s cauldron. Only Bai Ruoxi continued to stare at Mu Zhian as he jumped off the platform.

Just as Nigati’s excitement was about to bubble over, a rumbling sound echoed from the sky.

A Rank 7 pill tribulation!

Someone reacted, their eyes widening in shock as they scanned the alchemy platform.

Then, their gaze locked onto Ye Lingxuan’s cauldron.

“How is that possible…?”

Nigati was also stunned. When he looked at Ye Lingxuan, he saw that the pill she was refining had already become a complete Rank 7 pill!

In less than a stick of incense’s time, the pill had advanced a rank!

At this moment, not only Nigati, but even the Holy Land elders who were skilled in alchemy were stunned.

“As expected of the Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Zone… Did she use some kind of secret technique?”

“But even a secret technique shouldn’t be able to advance a pill’s rank…”

Confused murmurs arose from the crowd. They couldn’t understand what had happened in such a short time.

“The Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Zone is incredibly talented, and the Forbidden Zone is shrouded in mystery. It’s not surprising if they have a secret technique to enhance pill ranks…”

“Not only is her beauty breathtaking, but her talent in both cultivation and alchemy is top-notch. She’s truly exceptional.”

Many admired Ye Lingxuan, believing that she had used some secret technique from the Forbidden Zone to enhance her pill’s rank. Their gazes were fixed on the beautiful young woman on stage.

Luo Tan’s eyes flickered as she looked at Ye Lingxuan’s cauldron with surprise.

After a long silence, she glanced at Mu Zhian, who had just stepped off the platform.

Others might not have noticed, but the Pill Emperor of Yu State could see the trick.

Just a kiss could cause a pill to evolve…?

His Innate Celestial Furnace could actually be used like this…?

After a brief moment of astonishment, a faint smile appeared on Luo Tan’s lips. She looked at Mu Zhian with a newfound intensity.

…

While the alchemy competition was in full swing, deep within the Jade Pool Holy Land, far from the Two Polarities Sect, a woman lay within an ancient coffin in a secluded pavilion. Her eyes were closed, as if she were meditating.

This was a completely sealed pavilion, and due to the Jade Empress’s orders, no one had noticed that her celestial body was faintly emitting a light even more holy and gentle than before.

Feathers seemed to be scattering within the room.

Spiritual energy was gradually filling her cauldron, and as it did, the ancient coffin trembled faintly.

The aura of Dao Integration grew increasingly terrifying and powerful. Finally, the Jade Empress slowly opened her eyes.

A terrifying aura filled the entire Jade Pool Holy Land, causing the ground to tremble. The old monsters in seclusion opened their eyes one after another, their gazes fixed on the quiet pavilion.

Yao Meng raised her finger slightly, and almost instantly, the sky seemed to collapse, revealing a deep, abyss-like darkness.

She flicked her finger again.

The collapsed sky returned to normal.

“As expected…”

Yao Meng murmured, “I’ve caught a glimpse of the Transcendence Realm.”

After achieving Dao Integration with the new Heavenly Dao and obtaining the First Seat of the Heavenly Court, Yao Meng was now only one step away from the true Transcendence Realm: a trial from the Heavenly Dao of the Nine Provinces!

If she truly reached the Transcendence Realm, who in the Nine Provinces could stop her…?

A faint smile appeared on Yao Meng’s face.

Who would have thought that a wisp of consciousness that was almost extinguished would be the first to reach the threshold of the Transcendence Realm?

And all of this was because of him…

Yao Meng’s gaze softened as she looked towards the room…

Then, she froze.

…Where is he?

Hurried footsteps approached from outside, followed by a respectful voice. “Jade Empress, are you alright?”

Yao Meng looked at the empty room. “I’m fine. Come in.”

The door opened silently, and the Jade Pool Matriarch hesitated slightly. “I feel like your aura is much stronger than before…”

“Mmm.”

Yao Meng simply nodded.

Then, under the Jade Pool Matriarch’s astonished gaze, she said softly, “Within a month, I will break through the shackles of the Dao Integration realm.”

The Jade Pool Matriarch was stunned, her mouth agape, staring at Yao Meng with a mixture of shock and delight.

Transcendence Realm?!

The Nine Provinces would have its first Transcendence Realm cultivator?!

Yao Meng’s expression was calm. She glanced at the empty room. “By the way, where did he go?”

A helpless look appeared on the Jade Pool Matriarch’s face. She hesitated for a moment, then said softly, “A few days ago, a Dao Integration expert secretly bypassed the Jade Pool’s formations. Because no one usually approaches the Jade Empress’s pavilion, no one knew that Mu Zhian had left.”

“Until today…”

The Jade Pool Matriarch looked at the ethereal Jade Empress. “A Jade Pool disciple discovered today that Young Master Mu had been taken away.”

The calm smile on Yao Meng’s face slowly froze, and she tilted her head slightly.

I was robbed right under my nose?

Chapter 376: Seeking Subscriptions! The Jade Empress Breaks Through, The First Transcendence Realm Cultivator?p1

Jade Pool Holy Land.

The Jade Pool Matriarch sat on her throne in the Profound Moon Hall, her expression grim.

Below the throne, the elders also wore solemn expressions, whispering amongst themselves.

The Jade Pool Matriarch surveyed the crowd below and said softly, “Has Mu Zhian been found?”

“Reporting to Matriarch, Mu Zhian seems to have returned to the Two Polarities Sect a few days ago, riding a Dragon Sparrow with a woman. Fairy Yao Yue said he’s participating in the alchemy competition today,” an informant replied respectfully.

The Jade Pool Matriarch’s expression softened slightly, and she nodded. “As long as he’s safe…”

A few days ago, the Jade Pool Holy Land had belatedly discovered that Mu Zhian had been secretly taken out of the Jade Pool. If someone hadn’t noticed a missing Dragon Sparrow during a count, they might still be unaware of this matter.

After all, no Jade Pool disciple dared to approach the Jade Empress’s pavilion, so naturally, they didn’t know that Mu Zhian was no longer there.

“I wonder if the Jade Empress knows about this…” an elder sighed.

The Jade Pool Matriarch’s expression was subtle. “She probably doesn’t…”

She had heard some rumors about the Jade Empress, the Sword Palace Master, and the others, so she knew that Mu Zhian’s undetected departure from the Jade Pool Holy Land must have been orchestrated by a Dao Integration expert.

If the Jade Empress knew, she would have already confronted them. She wouldn’t have let Mu Zhian leave so easily.

“Should we inform the Jade Empress now…?” someone asked tentatively.

The Jade Pool Matriarch shook her head slowly. “The Jade Empress is likely in seclusion. We cannot disturb her.”

She paused, then continued, “Since Mu Zhian only went to the Two Polarities Sect, we’ll inform her after she finishes her seclusion.”

A hint of helplessness crept into her voice.

She wondered how the Jade Empress would react when she learned of this…

…

Two Polarities Sect, Boundless Sea Peak.

“Rank 2 pill ingredients…?”

Seeing the ingredients Mu Zhian had prepared, the cultivators below and the elders judging the competition were stunned, wondering if they were seeing things.

“Minor Restoration Pill… a Rank 2 pill…?”

After a long silence, Regina’s soft voice broke the stillness. Her skin was fair and translucent, her demeanor frail. Her light golden hair cascaded down her back, and her bright eyes studied Mu Zhian with interest.

Knowing Mu Zhian, she didn’t believe he would use a Rank 2 pill for the competition.

But she had investigated him, and he had never practiced alchemy before. A Rank 2 or 3 pill was likely his limit.

She had expected him to prepare a Rank 3 pill, but unexpectedly, he had chosen the simplest Minor Restoration Pill…

Nigati seemed much better prepared…

The Holy Maiden of the Southern Wilderness, dressed in a bright red dress, looked at the other young man on the alchemy platform.

Nigati was clearly preparing a Rank 6 pill. Aside from Ye Lingxuan, the ingredients he had prepared were practically unmatched.

Seeming to sense the Holy Maiden’s gaze, Nigati pursed his lips, a smug smile playing on his lips.

Although he was inferior to Regina in terms of cultivation, his alchemy skills were second to none among his peers.

On the other hand, Mu Zhian, who had been in contact with the Holy Maiden, was rather disappointing…

Nigati glanced at Mu Zhian’s Earth-grade cauldron, then at the meager ingredients he had taken out, and chuckled. “Mu Zhian, this alchemy competition was prepared by the Empress of Yu State herself. The participating alchemists have all prepared at least Rank 4 pills. Isn’t your Rank 2 pill a bit too… shabby?”

Mu Zhian glanced at him and smiled faintly. “The importance of a pill lies not in its rank, but in its efficacy and the benefits it provides to cultivators.”

“That’s true.”

Nigati nodded, then smiled faintly. “But how much benefit can a low-rank pill provide?”

“I believe my Rank 2 pill will be quite popular,” Mu Zhian smiled.

Nigati scoffed inwardly and ignored Mu Zhian, glancing towards the crowd.

Mu Zhian followed his gaze and quickly spotted Regina, the frail beauty in the red dress. She was looking up at the stage. Sensing Mu Zhian’s gaze, she glanced over and gave him a charming smile.

Mu Zhian smiled back warmly.

Nigati seemed to notice their exchange and his expression darkened.

Mu Zhian glanced at the displeased Holy Son of the Southern Wilderness and chuckled. “It seems not everyone likes high-rank pills.”

Nigati simply scoffed and ignored Mu Zhian, circulating his spiritual energy and beginning to refine his pill.

At the same time, the other alchemists on the platform closed their eyes and began their preparations.

Mu Zhian glanced at Ye Lingxuan, who was also preparing, then transmitted his voice to Regina. “Sorry, I seem to have upset Nigati again.”

Regina looked at Mu Zhian with surprise, seemingly astonished that he had the leisure to chat during the competition.

She transmitted her voice back. “Nigati’s displeasure has nothing to do with me. Why are you telling me this, Young Master Mu?”

“As for you, normally, alchemy requires complete focus. It’s strange that you have the time to chat with me.”

Mu Zhian chuckled softly. “A Rank 2 pill doesn’t require much focus.”

He hesitated for a moment, then continued in a gentle voice, “I didn’t intend to offend Nigati. If possible, I hope you can put in a good word for me later, so that I won’t be troubled by him if I go to the Southern Wilderness in the future…”

Regina looked at Mu Zhian, a playful smile in her clear, cold eyes. “If you come to the Southern Wilderness with me in the future, I will protect you. You can rest assured.”

Mu Zhian hesitated for a long time, then transmitted his voice softly, “But you’re the Holy Maiden of the Southern Wilderness, and Nigati is the Holy Son… If I really go to the Southern Wilderness with you, what if he retaliates against me?”

“Even if you protect me, if my actions cause conflict between you two, I would feel guilty.”

Regina frowned slightly. “You don’t have to worry, Young Master Mu. Although he is the Holy Son, if I want to protect you, no one can object, not even him.”

I understand, your status in the Southern Wilderness is higher than his… Mu Zhian replied reservedly, “Mmm… Thank you in advance, Miss Regina. I’ll consider whether to go to the Southern Wilderness.”

“By the way, after the alchemy competition, I’d like to invite you to the Jade Pool Holy Land to relax. Are you interested?” Mu Zhian suddenly transmitted his voice again.

“Jade Pool Holy Land…?” Even Regina was stunned.

The three Pillar Gods of the Southern Wilderness had previously taken some actions against the Jade Pool Holy Land. If she, as the Holy Maiden, went there, it would undoubtedly cause trouble.

“I’ve already spoken to the Jade Empress. There won’t be any problems even if you go to the Jade Pool. Besides, it would be more convenient to give you the Innate Dao Body and a wisp of Reincarnation spiritual energy at the Jade Pool Holy Land,” Mu Zhian said.

Regina pondered for a moment, then nodded slightly.

As they conversed, the alchemists began to draw in the surrounding spiritual energy.

The competition had begun!

Mu Zhian quickly collected his thoughts, focused his mind, and activated the Earth-grade cauldron before him.

He carefully controlled his spiritual energy, adding the common, low-grade herbs into the cauldron one by one for smelting.

“It seems he really intends to refine a Rank 2 pill…”

Seeing this, someone in the crowd below murmured.

They had initially held some hope for Mu Zhian, thinking that his choice of ingredients must have some deeper meaning, after all, this young cultivator had passed several trials before.

But now it seemed he really intended to use a Rank 2 pill for the competition…

Even Luo Tan in the pavilion frowned.

If Mu Zhian refined a Rank 3 or 4 pill, she could find an excuse, such as praising his ‘exceptional alchemical talent,’ and then invite him to Yu State or even take him as a disciple, keeping him by her side.

But he was refining a Rank 2 pill…

Even beginner alchemists could refine Rank 2 pills. If she praised Mu Zhian’s alchemical talent, it would seem insincere, and people would see that she was simply interested in him.

Time passed silently. After nearly an hour, dark clouds gathered in the sky, and a cold wind howled.

A rich medicinal fragrance filled the main peak of Boundless Sea Peak, and the spiritual energy around the alchemy platform thinned considerably.

The alchemists were busy absorbing and purifying the surrounding spiritual energy, channeling it into their cauldrons to condense their pills.

Suddenly, cracks appeared on one of the cauldrons. The alchemist’s eyes narrowed, but before he could react, the cauldron shattered with a loud bang.

Following that sound, several more cauldrons exploded one after another.

Amidst the shattering sounds, a pill in one cauldron began to solidify, emitting a rich medicinal fragrance.

Nigati glanced at the exploding cauldrons around him, a faint smile appearing on his face.

Just as he had initially guessed, the only threats were the Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Zone and Tang Sufi, the Holy Maiden of the World Sea.

He waved his hand, gathering the spiritual energy around the alchemy platform and channeling it into his cauldron after purification.

For alchemy, freshly gathered and purified spiritual energy was ideal.

Just as Nigati was about to focus on his pill refinement, he caught a whiff of an incredibly rich medicinal fragrance from the platform.

He paused and turned his head instinctively.

It was Mu Zhian. The pill in his cauldron seemed to be nearing completion.

“Wasn’t he refining a Rank 2 pill…?”

Nigati looked closely and froze.

He stared intently at the Minor Restoration Pill in Mu Zhian’s cauldron.

Something wasn’t right…

Ordinary Rank 2 pills only emitted a faint white light. However, the Rank 2 pill in Mu Zhian’s cauldron was faintly emitting a multicolored glow.

Although it wasn’t very noticeable, any alchemist knew what this meant.

Pills that emitted a multicolored glow were at least Rank 6.

Was this really a Minor Restoration Pill…?

In the pavilion, Luo Tan also looked at Mu Zhian with surprise.

This Minor Restoration Pill didn’t look like a Rank 2 pill at all…

She glanced at Mu Zhian’s focused expression, then extended her consciousness towards the alchemy platform, scanning his cauldron.

The cauldron didn’t seem to be anything special. It seemed to be a matter of his formula…?

Luo Tan’s interest piqued, and she scanned the surface of the Minor Restoration Pill with her consciousness.

Almost instantly, her body trembled slightly, and her bright eyes widened as she stared at Mu Zhian.

Heavenly Court spiritual energy…

Boom!

A deafening roar echoed from the sky.

Luo Tan snapped out of her daze and looked at Nigati’s cauldron.

The pill he was refining should have been Rank 6, but now, she noticed that it was faintly showing signs of advancing to the next rank.

“He just added a Hundred Refinements Flower!”

The cultivators at the alchemy platform also noticed this, and someone called out indignantly.

Hearing this, the expressions of many alchemists turned grim, and some were even filled with dissatisfaction.

“The Hundred Refinements Flower isn’t even a medicinal herb, but a pill itself. What Nigati did is no different from cheating!”

Many alchemists on the platform were unhappy and frowned.

They might have had a chance of winning before, but with the Hundred Refinements Flower added to the pill, enhancing its spiritual energy, Nigati’s Foundation Solidification Pill had advanced from Rank 6 to Rank 7.

Even Ye Lingxuan’s Rank 6 pill was now inferior.

However, despite their dissatisfaction, there was nothing they could do, even though Nigati had exploited a loophole in the rules.

A faint smile appeared on Nigati’s face. He bowed slightly. “The Hundred Refinements Flower can be considered both a pill and a medicinal herb. If you must say, it’s just that you weren’t prepared enough. You can’t blame others.”

He glanced at the Rank 6 pill in Ye Lingxuan’s cauldron, which seemed to be nearing completion, and his smile widened.

The winner of the alchemy competition would receive a Rank 8 pill.

A Rank 8 pill was equivalent to an Emperor-grade herb, and one that didn’t require refinement.

If used properly, it could even help him comprehend a wisp of Dao Rhyme and break through to the next rank.

Sacrificing a Hundred Refinements Flower was worth it.

Thinking this, Nigati glanced at the faint, multicolored glow emanating from Mu Zhian’s cauldron, a sneer flashing in his eyes.

Even if Mu Zhian had a hidden trick, the pill in his cauldron was at most Rank 6. His own Foundation Solidification Pill, once the Hundred Refinements Flower was fully integrated, would become a Rank 7 pill!

“It seems Young Master Mu was quite prepared. I underestimated you before,” Nigati said with a faint, mocking smile.

Ye Lingxuan glanced over and frowned slightly.

Although she wasn’t overly competitive, Nigati’s use of the Hundred Refinements Flower was clearly exploiting a loophole.

If it weren’t for the Hundred Refinements Flower, Nigati’s pill might not even surpass the special pill Brother Mu was refining.

Mu Zhian’s expression was also subtle as he looked at the Foundation Solidification Pill in Nigati’s cauldron with surprise.

Even he hadn’t expected that a pill’s rank could be forcibly increased with a medicinal herb.

A Rank 7 pill was impossible for the alchemists present to refine.

After all, Rank 7 pills required at least a Nascent Soul cultivator to refine.

Nigati sensed Mu Zhian’s gaze and looked over, smiling faintly. “It seems Young Master Mu’s preparations were in vain.”

Even those with a discerning eye could see the special qualities of Mu Zhian’s pill, and Nigati was no exception.

But so what?

Even if Mu Zhian wasn’t refining a Rank 2 pill, but a mutated, special pill, it was at most Rank 6.

Compared to his Rank 7 Foundation Solidification Pill, it was a whole rank lower!

Chapter 375: The Alchemy Competition, The Wonders of Heavenly Court Spiritual Energy p2

Mu Zhian was curious. As he approached Ye Lingxuan, a faint fragrance wafted from her dress, mixed with the scent of papaya.

“B-Brother Mu, what are you doing?” Ye Lingxuan blushed and turned her head away.

Mu Zhian took her delicate hand, leaned down, and whispered in her ear, “Eating papaya isn’t as effective as letting me help you.”

Although he had been staying at Dexin Courtyard these past few days, Ye Lingxuan hadn’t given him any chance to get close to her. Every night, after refining pills, when he wanted to be intimate, she would find an excuse to slip away.

Mu Zhian was patient. Or rather, he hadn’t had a good rest lately, so taking this opportunity to relax wasn’t bad.

He also wanted to see whether Lingxuan could endure longer, or if his patience would win out.

He would make her beg for it!

Hearing Mu Zhian’s offer to help, Ye Lingxuan blushed and lowered her head.

“I was just eating some fruit. Brother Mu, you misunderstood.”

Mu Zhian simply said, “Actually, you’re not that small, Lingxuan. It’s just right.”

Although Ye Lingxuan wasn’t as well-endowed as Qian’er or Ruoxi, her development was certainly not lacking. It was just a matter of comparison.

But she didn’t know that while big was good, small had its own advantages.

Mu Zhian quickly dismissed his teasing thoughts. “Today is the alchemy competition. It’s been a while since we’ve been to Boundless Sea Peak. Let’s go early and take a look.”

Ye Lingxuan nodded slightly, then seemed to remember something and handed a storage ring to Mu Zhian. “Here, Brother Mu, this is for you.”

Mu Zhian scanned the storage ring with his consciousness and his expression turned subtle.

“An Earth-grade cauldron…? If I remember correctly, this cauldron would cost at least 800,000 spirit stones at auction, and it’s usually unavailable, right?”

Mu Zhian politely declined. “If I accept this cauldron, wouldn’t I be a kept man?”

Ye Lingxuan frowned, displeased. “Brother Mu has helped me so much. What’s a cauldron compared to that?”

“Instead of worrying about this, Brother Mu should think about spending more time with Qian’er and me…”

Her voice trailed off, her peach blossom eyes flickering with shyness.

Mu Zhian pondered for a moment, then accepted the storage ring, smiling. “Alright, after the alchemy competition, I’ll work hard to please you, Lingxuan.”

He leaned close to Ye Lingxuan’s ear and whispered, “After we get back, I’ll replace the papaya and help you…”

Ye Lingxuan glared at him. “Scram!”

Mu Zhian paused. “Can you scold me a little more?”

Ye Lingxuan: “…”

She glared at him as if he were a pervert.

“By the way, Brother Mu, have you decided what pill you’re going to refine?” Ye Lingxuan suddenly asked.

“Of course.”

Mu Zhian smiled mysteriously. “A formula I invented myself.”

Even the elegant Miss Ye didn’t believe him and simply scoffed.

Someone who had just started learning alchemy claiming to have invented a new pill… Hah.

Mu Zhian maintained his mysterious smile, not bothering to explain.

She would find out when they got to the alchemy platform on Boundless Sea Peak.

…

At the peak of Boundless Sea Peak was an alchemy platform.

In fact, several of the nine main peaks had alchemy platforms. In the past, disciples and elders often used them for pill refinement.

Luo Tan, dressed in a white dress, sat in a pavilion on the main peak, holding a cup of tea and casually observing the bustling crowd of cultivators near the alchemy platform.

Many participants had already gathered on the platform, including the Holy Son of the Southern Wilderness, the Holy Maiden of the World Sea, and others.

The pavilion was also filled with cultivators. Most cultivators weren’t suited for alchemy, but that didn’t diminish their interest in the competition.

More importantly, even for ancient clans, alchemists were extremely rare.

Most of the disciples participating in the competition, aside from those backed by powerful families, didn’t have much influence.

This competition also allowed them to observe the performance of these alchemists and extend invitations to join their families or become guest alchemists.

If it weren’t for Luo Tan’s influence, it would have been difficult to gather so many talented individuals.

“Experts focus on the technique, while laymen watch the excitement. It’s the same everywhere. Your Majesty, who do you think will win this competition?”

A maid refilled Luo Tan’s tea and looked at the elegant Empress.

Luo Tan sat with her legs crossed, her luxurious white dress embroidered with gold thread and blooming flowers, further accentuating her noble aura.

She toyed with her teacup. “The alchemy skills of cultivators at this age are generally similar. The highest rank they can refine is around Rank 6. Victory depends on the details. Those with better control and higher quality spiritual energy are more likely to win.”

“Is that why Your Majesty favors the Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Zone?” the maid asked respectfully.

“The Innate Spiritual Body has a natural affinity for spiritual energy. Ye Lingxuan’s constitution is suitable for both cultivation and alchemy. She’s also quite humble and composed, an excellent seedling.”

Luo Tan held her teacup and looked towards the alchemy platform and the young cultivators gathered there. “However, it’s uncertain whether she will participate in the competition.”

“The Holy Maiden of the Forbidden Zone doesn’t lack resources and doesn’t need anyone’s invitation… It’s true that she might not participate,” the maid said softly.

“There have been a few Innate Spiritual Bodies in the Forbidden Zone in the past, but someone as perfect as her is a first, even for me.”

Luo Tan glanced sideways. “However, it seems that although she doesn’t lack resources, she still wants to show off in front of her beloved.”

The maid looked in the direction of the Empress’s gaze, a puzzled look in her eyes.

The area below the pavilion was even more lively now. Many cultivators surrounded a handsome young man, chatting and laughing. Not far from him, a young woman in a purple dress stood elegantly by his side.

Luo Tan smiled faintly. “He’s quite popular.”

“With the Jade Empress as his Dao Companion, even the elders in seclusion within the ancient clans must treat him with respect. It’s no wonder he’s so sought after,” the maid said softly.

Luo Tan gently rubbed the rim of her cup. “I’m more interested in what kind of pill someone who rarely practices alchemy can refine.”

Someone new to alchemy couldn’t possibly refine a high-rank pill. Mu Zhian must know this.

Yet he still came to participate in the competition.

Was he just accompanying his sister, or did he have something up his sleeve?

Regardless of whether Mu Zhian could win this competition, she was quite interested in this young cultivator.

If he was willing, she wouldn’t mind having him stay by her side for a few years and providing him with cultivation resources.

But then again, on the day he went to the Abyss, the will of the Heavenly Dao descended. Was it related to him?

As Luo Tan’s thoughts raced, the pavilion became increasingly crowded.

In a private room, Senior Sister Lan looked out the window at Mu Zhian, who had just arrived at the alchemy platform.

Her expression was calm, her eyes clear.

“Sister, you won the Ascension Ceremony matches in the end. Not only did you obtain three Emperor-grade herbs, but you also won the right to… use that guy. What are you planning to do with him?”

Lan Mulian, dressed in a white dress and a light, gauze-like green cloak, replied calmly, “The right to use Junior Brother… That was just Master’s playful joke. Don’t take it seriously.”

Lan Feiying giggled, crossing her legs and dangling her foot in a sexy red embroidered shoe. “Heh, if Sister asks him, he will definitely abide by the rules.”

“Not only will he do what you ask, but even if you ask him to clean your feet with his tongue, he probably wouldn’t refuse.”

As she spoke, she saw a blush creep onto her usually calm and elegant sister’s face.

Lan Mulian subconsciously tucked her foot away, glaring at her sister. “What nonsense are you talking about?”

Lan Feiying chuckled, then gently stroked the storage ring on her finger. “By the way, has the Enforcement Hall found anything about Ye Yu?”

“Nothing yet,” Lan Mulian shook her head gently, a worried look in her eyes.

A sect disciple had returned to the sect, only to be erased without a trace… Such methods were beyond even Nascent Soul experts.

Lan Feiying hummed softly. “Well, he’s dead. Ye Yu colluded with demon cultivators. Even if he hadn’t died, he would have been sent to the Enforcement Hall.”

Lan Mulian pondered for a moment. “This matter is quite strange. A demon cultivator from the Demon Realm accidentally revealed that Ye Yu had colluded with the Demonic Rhinoceros Clan on the border. And this news just happened to reach the sect… It feels like someone deliberately orchestrated it.”

Lan Feiying lowered her eyes, her voice seductive. “Whether it was deliberate or not, the sect’s investigation confirmed that Ye Yu did collude with the Demonic Rhinoceros Clan and harmed fellow disciples. That’s enough, isn’t it?”

Lan Mulian remained silent.

After a moment, Lan Feiying suddenly said, “He’s on stage.”

Lan Mulian snapped out of her thoughts and turned to look out the window. She saw Mu Zhian and Ye Lingxuan walking onto the stage with the other alchemists.

However, Mu Zhian was clearly very cautious. Although he walked alongside Ye Lingxuan, he didn’t hold her hand.

Dressed in black robes embroidered with gold and silver thread, he looked like a noble young master, his handsome appearance attracting the attention of countless female cultivators.

“Sister, what rank pill do you think he can refine?” Lan Feiying asked.

Lan Mulian pondered for a moment, then smiled brightly. “At most Rank 3.”

A faint smile played on her lips.

Someone who had never practiced alchemy before, how could they refine a high-rank pill?

Even if Mu Zhian had been frequenting the Book Pavilion and Dexin Courtyard these past few days, it was impossible for him to refine a high-rank pill in such a short time.

No matter how much she believed in Mu Zhian, she didn’t have high hopes for him.

She wondered why he was even participating. Could it be that he also had his eyes on the Rank 8 pill offered by Luo Tan?

“A Rank 8 pill, if used properly, can even grant a glimpse of Dao Rhyme, preparing one for the Dao Integration realm. It’s indeed tempting.”

Lan Feiying looked at her sister meaningfully, resting her chin on her hand and smiling. “But Sister, you obtained an Emperor-grade herb from the Southern Wilderness and the Western Regions in the Ascension Ceremony matches, plus the one from the sect… Three Emperor-grade herbs are equivalent to three Rank 8 pills.”

“If he asks you for one, will you give it to him, Sister?”

Lan Mulian raised an eyebrow. “If he really wants one… I wouldn’t mind.”

“But knowing his personality, if I simply give it to him, his pride might get in the way, and he might not accept it.”

Lan Feiying smiled charmingly. “There’s no need to worry about pride. I’m afraid Sister is just too embarrassed to ask.”

“Otherwise, an Emperor-grade herb is enough to buy him outright.”

Lan Mulian scoffed. “If I really kept him by my side, I’m afraid someone would immediately become restless.”

Not to mention Bai Ruoxi, even the Jade Empress might intervene.

“It seems to be starting.”

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

She looked out the window and saw Mu Zhian and Ye Lingxuan walking onto the stage with the other alchemists.

At the vast alchemy platform, the alchemists, following the instructions of an elder, took out their cauldrons and prepared the ingredients for their pills.

Even those who didn’t understand alchemy could roughly guess the rank of the pill based on the ingredients.

“What rank pill is he planning to refine…?”

Lan Mulian wondered as she watched Mu Zhian take out a purple cauldron.

At the same time, many cultivators in the pavilion, including Luo Tan, focused their attention on Mu Zhian.

He was the Jade Empress’s Dao Companion, and his past actions had generated much discussion. Although he was only at Core Formation Rank 5, he was always in the spotlight.

However, the forces behind him were so powerful that even those who disliked him secretly didn’t dare to act against him.

The last time Mu Zhian ‘died,’ the Forbidden Zone had emerged. Most cultivators in the Eastern Continent didn’t know the reason, but those from ancient clans had deduced the truth based on the relationship between Ye Lingxuan and Mu Zhian.

“An Earth-grade cauldron… As expected of the Jade Empress’s Dao Companion. He’s quite generous.”

“An Earth-grade cauldron can even be used to refine Rank 8 pills without shattering. It seems Young Master Mu has been practicing alchemy in secret…”

“Not only is he talented in cultivation, but also in alchemy. The Jade Empress has good taste…”

Seeing the cauldron Mu Zhian took out, whispers arose from the crowd below. The maid beside Luo Tan was also surprised. “It seems Young Master Mu has been hiding his identity as an alchemist. He even has an Earth-grade cauldron prepared.”

If he weren’t an alchemist, he wouldn’t carry such a valuable item with him.

After all, there were probably less than a thousand Earth-grade cauldrons in the entire Nine Provinces.

Only an alchemist would take such pains, as they cherished their cauldrons above all else.

“I haven’t seen Mu Lang these past few days. I wonder what pill he has prepared.”

Among the crowd below, Bai Ruoxi, dressed in a beautiful white dress, looked up at the young man on the alchemy platform.

“He’s never practiced alchemy before. Even with his Innate Spiritual Body, he can only refine up to Rank 3 pills… Even with some miracle, Rank 4 would be his limit,” Wei Mengrou said softly.

As his maid, she knew Mu Zhian’s character well.

She had never seen him refine pills back in Tianxuan City. Cramming now wouldn’t allow him to refine any high-rank pills.

Even with talent, Rank 4 was his limit.

Just as Wei Mengrou thought this, she saw the ingredients Mu Zhian took out from his storage ring and froze.

She blinked, as if unable to believe her eyes. She closed her eyes briefly, silently praying, then opened them again.

“…”

Wei Mengrou was speechless.

Among the cultivators below, many had read books about alchemy and recognized the ingredients Mu Zhian had taken out.

For a moment, the crowd fell silent, as if countless question marks appeared above their heads.

Finally, someone murmured in disbelief,

“Rank 2 pill ingredients…?”

Chapter 375: The Alchemy Competition, The Wonders of Heavenly Court Spiritual Energy p1

That night.

“So alchemy is about controlling spiritual energy and its quality… No wonder alchemists are so rare in the Nine Provinces.”

Mu Zhian looked at the dark cauldron before him and the Rank 2 pill slowly rising from within, lost in thought.

“Lingxuan, what about the pill you refined? Don’t tell me you failed?” Mu Zhian asked.

Ye Lingxuan glanced at Mu Zhian and stretched languidly, her light purple dress clinging to her figure. Her fair neck formed a graceful curve, and her naturally flowing hair framed her beautiful, porcelain-like face.

She circulated her spiritual energy and extended her hand towards the cauldron.

A rich medicinal fragrance wafted out, and a Rank 5 pill landed in Ye Lingxuan’s hand.

“Although I don’t usually refine pills, I’m still far superior to an amateur like Brother Mu.”

Ye Lingxuan raised her chin slightly, her eyes haughty, maintaining her ladylike demeanor.

“The same pill, refined with different methods of spiritual energy control, can differ in rank by one or two levels,” Ye Lingxuan explained, her tone as if she were instructing him.

After her explanation, she glanced at the night outside the window. “It’s getting late. Brother Mu, you should rest early tonight.”

She covered her mouth with her hand and yawned delicately.

Even cultivators experienced fatigue. The simplest ways to alleviate it were meditation or sleep, and most cultivators chose the former.

“I’ll go back to the room with you, Lingxuan,” Mu Zhian said, taking Ye Lingxuan’s hand and gazing at her flawless face.

Ye Lingxuan blushed slightly, but gently pulled her hand away. “I’ve consumed a lot of spiritual energy refining pills today, and I’m quite tired. Brother Mu must be tired as well. Why don’t you find an empty room here to rest?”

Mu Zhian was taken aback.

Ye Lingxuan stood on tiptoe, brought her face close to Mu Zhian’s, and kissed him lightly on the cheek. “Goodnight, Brother Mu~”

“Oh, and…”

Ye Lingxuan paused. “If Brother Mu goes back tonight, I’ll be angry.”

Not letting me have sex and not letting me find someone else… Mu Zhian snapped out of his daze and nodded slightly. “Alright, it’s getting late. Let’s rest early.”

It didn’t matter if he didn’t dual cultivate for now. Focusing on alchemy these next few days was more important.

After all, this was all for the fox-eared girl!

…

The following evening.

The pill within the cauldron in the alchemy room had long since cooled. The room was filled with a rich medicinal fragrance, refreshing the mind.

“Brother Mu’s alchemy skills have improved significantly. If you had started practicing alchemy back in Tianxuan City, you would probably be a Rank 5 alchemist by now.”

Ye Lingxuan examined the smooth, round Rank 2 pill in her hand, a faint smile on her face.

“I didn’t know alchemy was so interesting. Otherwise, I would have asked the guest alchemists in my family for guidance earlier,” Mu Zhian said, taking the Rank 2 pill he had refined.

Ye Lingxuan chuckled. “In the past, Brother Mu was obsessed with beautiful women, visiting brothels or flirting with young maidens every few days. Where would you have found the time for alchemy? Even cultivation was a rare occurrence.”

Mu Zhian raised an eyebrow, maintaining his smile. “That’s only because I hadn’t met you yet, Lingxuan.”

He reached for her waist, but Ye Lingxuan blushed and sidestepped, avoiding his hand.

“I’m sorry, I’m too tired from refining pills these past few days. I can’t accompany Brother Mu today. You should go meditate and cultivate.”

She stood on tiptoe and whispered in Mu Zhian’s ear, “Since Brother Mu is preparing for the alchemy competition, it’s best to put those thoughts aside for now.”

“We’ll talk after the competition.”

Mu Zhian: “…”

Even he could tell that Ye Lingxuan was deliberately teasing him.

Who did she learn this from? She was never like this before… Mu Zhian grumbled inwardly, feeling a bit frustrated, but maintained his gentle, brotherly smile. “In that case, let’s stop here for today.”

I can resist having sex, but I don’t believe you can resist forever…

The spiritual energy within his Innate Celestial Furnace was incredibly alluring to female cultivators, especially now that it contained spiritual energy from the Heavenly Court, an irresistible temptation for any cultivator.

“I never thought I’d be given the cold shoulder one day…”

Mu Zhian sighed and continued refining pills in the alchemy room.

…

Meanwhile, elsewhere.

The room was brightly lit. Ye Qian leaned against the bed, looking at the young woman in the purple dress. “Sister, are you sure it’s okay to treat Brother Mu like this?”

Ye Lingxuan sat gracefully on a chair, her legs together, her feet in light purple embroidered shoes swinging gently as she peeled a papaya with a small knife.

She glanced at her sister. “Someone like Brother Mu needs to be teased. You can’t let him have his way so easily.”

“Look at this.”

Ye Lingxuan took a book from her storage ring and tossed it onto Ye Qian’s bed.

Ye Qian tilted her head slightly, her eyes filled with curiosity. “What’s this…?”

“Sister Ruoxi lent it to me a few days ago. It contains a lot of information about men, and some…”

Ye Lingxuan paused, her face burning, then whispered, “…some special techniques.”

Ye Qian looked at the book, nodding thoughtfully, then asked, “Why have you been eating so much papaya lately, Sister? Shouldn’t Core Formation cultivators have already reached “fasting”, where eating is no longer necessary?”

Ye Lingxuan glanced at her sister, whose face was innocent but whose figure was incredibly voluptuous. “You wouldn’t understand… Don’t ask so many questions.”

…

Time flew by, and another day passed.

News of the alchemy competition spread throughout the sect, attracting the attention of countless cultivators.

The Empress of Yu State had decided to stay in the Two Polarities Sect for a few more days and had offered a Rank 8 pill as a reward for the alchemy competition.

A Rank 8 pill required at least one Emperor-grade herb to refine. Even Dao Integration experts rarely possessed more than two or three.

As the competition drew near, this news ignited the entire Two Polarities Sect, and many disciples who knew alchemy were incredibly excited.

This was a living Dao Integration Empress, and a rare alchemist at that!

Only Pill Emperor Luo Tan, who had created the Immortal Dynasty, would be so generous.

If one could gain her favor in the alchemy competition, it would be no exaggeration to say that their future would be bright.

After all, what cultivators lacked most were resources.

With resources, one could accelerate their cultivation speed. Two cultivators with the same talent, one with abundant resources and the other lacking, would have vastly different cultivation speeds, often threefold.

And cultivation resources were scarce, even for ancient clans.

Usually, if an ancient clan invested all its resources in cultivating Nascent Soul disciples, they could only cultivate two or three at most.

After all, refining pills required herbs, and alchemists weren’t always successful. Successfully refining one pill from three sets of ingredients was already considered quite good.

But for Empress Luo Tan, such pills were as common as beans.

After all, she was one of the top alchemists in the world.

Imagine being chosen by her, becoming an exchange student in Yu State, staying in her palace, and being fed pills every few days… One’s future would be limitless!

And as a personal disciple, if one was lucky, perhaps they could even develop a closer relationship with her…

Of course, this was wishful thinking. After all, what genius hadn’t the Empress seen before? If she was truly interested in a young cultivator, she would have noticed them earlier, not wait until now.

But regardless, even without developing a close relationship, just the title of ‘disciple’ would allow one to walk unhindered throughout the Nine Provinces.

“It’s a pity I can’t directly use the spiritual energy in my Innate Celestial Furnace for alchemy. Otherwise, even if I couldn’t refine high-rank pills, I could still impress the elders judging the competition… or even impress Luo Tan herself.”

In the alchemy room, Mu Zhian looked at the cauldron before him, feeling a bit regretful.

But then, a thought occurred to him. “Although I can’t actively use the spiritual energy in my Innate Celestial Furnace, my own cauldron also contains Heavenly Court spiritual energy. Although it’s two or three times weaker than the spiritual energy in my Innate Celestial Furnace, if I use it for alchemy, the quality will still be excellent…”

The spiritual energy in the Heavenly Court was unique. Even absorbing a small amount was enough to break through bottlenecks.

However, the path to immortality was hidden, and absorbing Heavenly Court spiritual energy required meeting certain conditions.

And these conditions were extremely strict. Just the first requirement, being at the Dao Integration realm, eliminated ninety-nine percent of cultivators.

Besides the small amount of Heavenly Court spiritual energy given to the disciples during Ye Qingxin’s pocket dimension trial, there had been no other Heavenly Court spiritual energy in the Nine Provinces.

What would happen if this incredibly rich Heavenly Court spiritual energy was used in alchemy…?

Mu Zhian looked at the cauldron before him.

Inside, a pale white pill was suspended in mid-air.

It was a Rank 2 pill, the Minor Restoration Pill.

Consuming this pill could heal minor injuries within a day.

If he used this Minor Restoration Pill for the competition, it would be utterly inadequate.

Mu Zhian closed his eyes, focusing his mind. The rich Heavenly Court spiritual energy within his Innate Celestial Furnace emitted a faint, colorful glow, flowing into the Minor Restoration Pill as he circulated his cauldron.

Crack.

A faint cracking sound could be heard, followed by a network of cracks appearing on the surface of the pill.

Then, with a pop, the Minor Restoration Pill shattered completely.

“As expected, it won’t work… Ordinary pills can’t withstand the Heavenly Court spiritual energy.” Mu Zhian sighed.

But then, he had a thought. “If I discard the medicinal properties of the Minor Restoration Pill and just focus on strengthening its structure, could it withstand the Heavenly Court spiritual energy…?”

Thinking this, Mu Zhian quickly took out another set of ingredients for the Minor Restoration Pill from his storage ring, along with an Emperor Root.

According to the jade slip he had crushed earlier, although the Emperor Root was a medicinal herb, it was usually used to enhance weapons, making them indestructible.

Normally, it wasn’t used in pill refinement.

Mu Zhian circulated his cauldron again, condensing the Minor Restoration Pill with his consciousness, then added the Emperor Root.

After nearly half an hour, the Emperor Root completely covered the surface of the Minor Restoration Pill, turning the originally pale white pill into a deep silver.

Mu Zhian carefully channeled the Heavenly Court spiritual energy within him into the pill.

After a stick of incense burned, the deep silver color of the pill began to change, turning into a faint, multicolored hue.

An incredibly rich medicinal fragrance, mixed with the Heavenly Court spiritual energy, filled the alchemy room.

Mu Zhian didn’t dare to relax, maintaining the flow of Heavenly Court spiritual energy.

After a quarter of an hour, the Minor Restoration Pill was finally complete. Mu Zhian breathed a sigh of relief, wiped the sweat from his forehead, took the pill from the cauldron, and swallowed it.

The rich Heavenly Court spiritual energy instantly surged through his body, and a clap of thunder echoed from the sky.

The bottleneck of Core Formation Rank 4… broken through!

“It works! This Minor Restoration Pill has been transformed by the Heavenly Court spiritual energy. It’s beneficial for cultivators below the Dao Integration realm!”

Mu Zhian was overjoyed. He looked at the cauldron, which had cracked from the strain of the Heavenly Court spiritual energy, a playful smile appearing on his face.

If this was the case, it didn’t matter what rank alchemist he was…

…

For the next day, Mu Zhian remained in the alchemy room, repeatedly experimenting. He confirmed that any pill, after being reinforced with the Emperor Root, would become indestructible. And when infused with Heavenly Court spiritual energy, any pill would be transformed into a special pill containing Heavenly Court spiritual energy.

Time flew by, and the day of the alchemy competition arrived.

Mu Zhian woke up alone in his room, yawned lazily, and got out of bed to dress.

“Brother Mu, are you ready?”

Ye Lingxuan’s voice came from outside. Mu Zhian hummed in response and opened the door, seeing the elegant beauty.

Her elaborate dress hugged her figure, her hair neatly arranged with hairpins. She wore delicate embroidered shoes, accentuating her youthful charm.

“Where’s that papaya smell coming from?”