Category: It turns out, they are the protagonists

Chapter 520: Speedrunning the Mu Zhian Level in One Night 

The candlelight illuminated the dim bedchamber. A window, cracked open a sliver, let in the fresh night air.

A bright, ice-breaking smile graced the Reincarnated Empress’s exquisite and beautiful face. She stood elegantly, her long legs crossed, her dress clinging to her alluring figure.

She gazed at Mu Zhian with that captivating smile.

At this moment, she looked nothing like an emotionless puppet. If one didn’t know better, they might even mistake her for a naive and innocent young girl.

But Mu Zhian grew increasingly hesitant, secretly observing this breathtakingly beautiful ‘three-no’s’ woman (three-no’s – emotionless, voiceless, tearless).

“A condition? What condition?”

This was the first time he had seen this ‘puppet’ show emotions like a human, and even make a request.

However, the term ‘puppet’ didn’t literally mean a ‘puppet’. They simply lacked emotions most of the time, completing their tasks according to their initial ‘settings’, but they were still human, with their own joys and sorrows.

The Reincarnated Empress smiled and said, “It’s nothing much, just a promise from you.”

“…Tell me about it first,” Mu Zhian hesitated.

Under normal circumstances, he would have agreed, but he felt something was off about the way she spoke.

“Tsk.”

The Reincarnated Empress silently turned her face away, clicking her tongue, seemingly not expecting Mu Zhian to be so difficult.

This woman is a bit playful, I didn’t realize it before… Mu Zhian thought.

The Reincarnated Empress said, “Have you ever thought about how the Master plans to accept the Reincarnated Empress’s memories from her past eight lives? How exactly will she receive those memories?”

“Also, how do I know where the Flower of the Great Dao is hidden?”

The Reincarnated Empress deliberately kept him in suspense, continuing, “And why did I want you to make a promise just now… Aren’t you curious about all these things?”

If you say you won’t tell me, I swear I won’t beat you to death… Mu Zhian nodded slightly, “I am indeed a bit curious.”

He also wanted to know what the Reincarnated Empress was planning and what kind of promise she wanted.

“What do you want? Or rather… what do you need me to do?” Mu Zhian asked.

The Reincarnated Empress gently shook her head, “I don’t need you to do anything.”

Mu Zhian was stunned. Before he could speak again, he heard the woman gazing into his eyes and saying seriously, “But I want you.”

Mu Zhian: “?”

After a long moment of stunned silence, he asked doubtfully, “Did Sister Lingxuan tell you something?”

With the Reincarnated Empress’s personality, she wouldn’t possibly say such a thing on her own initiative. Clearly, Ye Lingxuan must have said something to make her say such shocking words.

The Reincarnated Empress’s eyes flickered, and she said faintly, “She didn’t tell me anything.”

However, the more she said that, the more suspicious Mu Zhian became, “If that’s the case, why did you suddenly say you want… me?”

Even Mu Zhian, a seasoned womanizer, felt inexplicably embarrassed saying these words.

The Reincarnated Empress placed a finger against her lips, looked up, thought for a moment, and said, “Perhaps it’s because I also like you?”

It was like walking down the street one day and suddenly having a beautiful woman tap you on the shoulder from behind and say, “Hey there, handsome, wanna go out sometime?”

One’s first reaction wouldn’t be joy, but suspicion. Was this a prank, a hidden camera show, or someone trying to harvest his kidneys…?

That’s how the Reincarnated Empress made Mu Zhian feel at this moment.

Although her beauty was breathtaking, and her expressions were much richer than usual, Mu Zhian didn’t believe a word she said.

After all, she had barely spoken to him before, how could she suddenly confess her love for no reason?

“Senior, although I don’t know what you’re planning, I’m not that kind of casual person…” Mu Zhian said demurely.

The Reincarnated Empress hummed softly, “I know, you’re someone who values rituals. Compared to being pursued by others, you prefer the women you pursue yourself.”

“However, there are always exceptions.”

The tall woman walked towards Mu Zhian with sexy strides and gently placed a hand on his shoulder.

Her usually emotionless eyes were now slightly moist, a seductive smile playing on her lips.

The woman leaned down slightly and whispered in Mu Zhian’s ear, “Agree to my condition, and I’ll tell you where the Flower of the Great Dao is hidden.”

“You want the Spirit Dragon to transcend, right?”

The woman’s cool voice carried a unique charm, making Mu Zhian’s heart ripple slightly.

Then, he quickly noticed the look in the Reincarnated Empress’s eyes. Her expression was condescending, as if she had everything under control.

Mu Zhian quickly calmed down and asked, “Where did you learn these useless tricks?”

“This isn’t a useless trick,” the Reincarnated Empress said faintly. “At least, for the women around you, it’s much more important than any precious resource.”

Ignoring Mu Zhian, she continued, “Among the women you know, Bai Ruoxi’s figure is your favorite, and the Jade Empress best fits your XP. And towards her, you have the least resistance, easily tempted to (censored) her with just a little teasing.”

“I observed the Jade Empress’s behavior when she was with you, so I roughly know how she does it.”

The Reincarnated Empress’s long hair was tied up with a jade hairpin, her magnificent purple dress accentuating her graceful and toned figure. Her long, slender, snow-white legs were visible beneath her skirt, seemingly translucent like ice crystals under the candlelight.

She noticed Mu Zhian’s gaze, her expression remaining calm, and said, “You like pursuing women, but you have no resistance towards women who flirt with you.”

“However, most men seem to be the same.”

Mu Zhian thought for a moment and explained, “We usually call this kind of person a lecher. It’s not just me, most men are like this.”

The Reincarnated Empress tilted her head slightly and looked at Mu Zhian, “But most men wouldn’t actively pursue girls like you. Even if a small portion of men do, they would find it difficult to approach a proud girl like the Master.”

There was one thing she didn’t say. Not only was it difficult for others to approach a girl like Ye Lingxuan, but it was also difficult for most women to approach Mu Zhian.

Whether Mu Zhian wanted it or not, the fish in his pond would ‘unintentionally’ drive away any woman who tried to get close to him.

But the Reincarnated Empress was an exception.

She was Ye Lingxuan’s past life, always following her like a shadow, never taking the initiative to speak, thus easily overlooked.

Even Yao Meng overlooked the Reincarnated Empress’s existence and didn’t know that this woman had been silently watching while Ye Lingxuan read The Art of Managing Your Husband.

She felt this book should be called The Art of Managing Mu instead.

The content seemingly described methods to control men, but the entire book was actually about Mu Zhian’s personality and preferences… Just how well did one have to know someone to be able to write about their various preferences, when they would be shy, and when they would be moved, in such detail?

The Reincarnated Empress wasn’t sure either.

She stared at Mu Zhian, not speaking.

After an unknown amount of time, Mu Zhian sighed softly and said, “I’ll stay in the Forbidden Zone until you’re satisfied… Is that okay?”

After Mu Zhian finished speaking, he saw the woman finally reveal a satisfied smile.

For some reason, he felt her smile was genuine this time.

Seemingly sensing Mu Zhian’s gaze, the Reincarnated Empress looked at him questioningly.

They were very close, and Mu Zhian could even faintly smell the fragrance emanating from her body, the back of his hand brushing against hers.

Their eyes met for a moment, then the woman silently turned her face away.

“Are you shy?” Mu Zhian asked.

“Not shy, it’s just that you’re ultimately the Master’s man, I can’t be too intimate with you,” the Reincarnated Empress said faintly.

However, Mu Zhian felt like he had discovered her weakness and suddenly asked, “Do you know what it feels like to kiss?”

The woman was slightly stunned, seemingly curious, but also a bit too embarrassed to ask him.

She just stared at Mu Zhian with her beautiful eyes.

Mu Zhian finally smiled.

He thought this woman knew everything… It turned out she was only a theoretical expert.

She was like those female doctors with maxed-out theoretical knowledge. Although highly educated, when it came to practical application… they were completely clueless.

“Lingxuan never dated in her past nine lives?” Mu Zhian asked doubtfully.

The Reincarnated Empress gently shook her head, “She easily reached Dao Integration in her past lives, naturally looking down on the men around her.”

She added, “Actually, even if you don’t give her a Heavenly Court seat, she can still transcend through her own abilities.”

“Ultimately, the reason she decided to reincarnate nine times was because she knew she had a chance to strive for immortality in this life.”

A girl like Ye Lingxuan, there was only a chance to get close to her before her memories awakened, when she was still a little fish. As she matured, even if you were a Dao Integration Realm expert, she might not even look at you.

Because from the very beginning, Ye Lingxuan’s goal wasn’t Dao Integration, but Transcendence.

Transcendence without relying on a Heavenly Court seat.

Mu Zhian looked thoughtful and asked, “Speaking of which, what did you experience in your past life?”

He was suddenly curious why Ye Lingxuan in this life was a talented young girl, while her past life was a three-no’s beauty… Something must have happened to make her like this?

The Reincarnated Empress gently shook her head and said calmly, “Just ordinary cultivation, then I smoothly reached Dao Integration.”

“Just that? No thrilling experiences or stories?” Mu Zhian asked, filled with doubt.

Logically, before reaching Dao Integration, one would encounter some extremely dangerous situations.

After all, Dao Integration depended on destiny, not just effort. Mu Zhian originally thought the Reincarnated Empress must have experienced something that made her close off her heart.

“No,” the Reincarnated Empress shook her head. “I just meditated and cultivated often, and casually dealt with some small fry who disturbed my cultivation.”

It seems Lingxuan’s past life might have simply been meditating and cultivating every day, not liking to interact with people, which is why she seems a bit ‘dorky’…?

Miss Spirit Dragon silently gave a thumbs-up.

“Where is the Flower of the Great Dao hidden?” Mu Zhian changed the subject.

However, the Reincarnated Empress didn’t answer directly, but instead asked, “Did you just promise to stay in the Forbidden Zone?”

Why is she asking again…?

Mu Zhian felt some doubt and became slightly wary. He carefully chose his words and said, “I’ll stay in the Forbidden Zone until Sister Lingxuan inherits the position of Forbidden Zone Empress, but why are you suddenly so concerned about this?”

Rumble…

As soon as his voice fell, thunder rumbled in the sky. He hadn’t made an oath, yet the Great Dao witnessed his words and treated them as an ‘oath’!

Then, as Mu Zhian looked at her with a shocked expression of You tricked me?!, the Reincarnated Empress slowly took out a translucent white flower from her chest.

Almost at that instant, vast Spiritual Energy emanated from the white flower, filling the entire room.

Under Mu Zhian’s astonished gaze, the Reincarnated Empress said calmly, “Do you know where the Flower of the Great Dao comes from, where Immortal Medicine comes from?”

“People used to say there are only nine stalks of Immortal Medicine in this world, each hidden within one of the nine Forbidden Lands. They also said that Immortal Medicine was left behind by that Immortal Ascension Realm Immortal.”

“No one knows the truth of these matters, and I don’t know either, but one thing is certain, the Flower of the Great Dao wasn’t left behind by that Immortal, but a miracle naturally born from the world. No one knows how long it has existed in the Nine Provinces, but it can indeed connect with the Great Dao, and if a cultivator obtains it, they can use the Great Dao to continuously evolve themselves, becoming a flawless being.”

The Reincarnated Empress handed the ‘Flower of the Great Dao’ to Mu Zhian: “And this flower is a ‘husk’ shed by the Flower of the Great Dao during its evolution. It’s more accurate to call it a Dao Comprehension Flower than the Flower of the Great Dao.”

“So, there’s no Flower of the Great Dao in the Forbidden Zone?” Mu Zhian felt somewhat disappointed hearing this news, but then he quickly sensed the aura of the ‘Great Dao’ from this flower.

Undoubtedly, this was also the Flower of the Great Dao and could connect with the Great Dao.

However, it wasn’t true Immortal Medicine, but a husk shed by it.

“Who gave you this Dao Comprehension Flower?” Mu Zhian couldn’t help asking.

“The ancient being of the Eastern Continent’s Forbidden Land,” the Reincarnated Empress said.

Mu Zhian asked in surprise, “The ancient being of the Forbidden Land? Why would it give you the Dao Comprehension Flower?”

After interacting with the Princess and Luo Tan these past few days, Mu Zhian had realized something important – the ancient being of the Forbidden Land had once tried to cover the entire Nine Provinces with the Forbidden Land’s rules. Back then, most of the Nine Provinces were Forbidden Lands.

But later, a great battle took place in the Nine Provinces, and someone suppressed the nine Forbidden Lands.

Logically, they should be enemies, yet it actively gave the Dao Comprehension Flower to the Reincarnated Empress?

“I encountered some trouble during my Dao Integration, and it gave me the Dao Comprehension Flower to save me,” the Reincarnated Empress said.

“And according to it, it was only acting on someone else’s behalf.”

“As for who that person is, I’m not sure either,” the Reincarnated Empress said.

“But in any case, if the Spirit Dragon wants to use the Dao Comprehension Flower to comprehend the Great Dao, her success rate is extremely high.”

“After all, the Spirit Dragon is a creation beloved by the Great Dao. If it senses the Spirit Dragon, the Great Dao probably won’t refuse.”

The Reincarnated Empress continued.

“Are you sure it’s okay to give me such an important item?” Mu Zhian hesitated.

Although he liked getting things without effort, his relationship with the Reincarnated Empress wasn’t particularly close. Taking this quasi-immortal medicine felt a bit uneasy.

The Reincarnated Empress said calmly, “It’s fine. After all, the Dao Comprehension Flower is no longer of much use to me.”

Before Mu Zhian could thank her, she continued, “However, if you want this Dao Comprehension Flower, you’ll have to do me a favor.”

“Tell me what you want me to do first,” Mu Zhian was already wary of this cool and aloof beauty.

She looked like a pure and innocent little white rabbit, but her heart was black. She had just tricked him, turning his words into an ‘oath’ using the Dao Comprehension Flower.

Fortunately, he was quick-witted, otherwise, it would have been a headache.

“I made a bet with the Master that you would be captivated by my charm, so can you cooperate later?” the Reincarnated Empress asked.

“How do I cooperate?” Mu Zhian was doubtful.

A captivating smile reappeared on the woman’s face, and she said softly, “Just listen to me when I tell you what to do.”

The Master is currently at the Elders’ Council. She’ll probably peek at us through the Desolate Time Lock soon. When the Master uses the Desolate Time Lock, she’ll naturally be able to sense it.

As long as the Master sees my ‘results’ tonight, I’ll win the bet.

“What should I do?” Mu Zhian asked.

“It’s very simple—”

Just as the Reincarnated Empress said this, her eyes flickered slightly, casually glancing in a certain direction.

Then, a faint smile appeared at the corner of her mouth. She looked at Mu Zhian and said, “Close your eyes.”

Mu Zhian hesitated, then noticed the Reincarnated Empress looking at the Dao Comprehension Flower, as if saying: Please cooperate, you don’t want to lose the Dao Comprehension Flower, do you?

He ultimately closed his eyes.

“Raise your head.”

A hint of charm laced her cool voice, followed by her breath and a faint fragrance.

Mu Zhian seemed to already know what she was planning. He glanced at her strangely, silently put the Dao Comprehension Flower into his storage ring, and raised his head.

The woman nodded with satisfaction, then casually glanced in a certain direction, her eyes as if saying: Master, see? I told you.

Tonight, I’ll show you what it means to speedrun the Mu Zhian level!

…

Chapter 519: Past Life Cuckolding, Present Life Too 

The Elders’ Council. This body existed in almost every Ancient Family, and the Forbidden Zone was no exception.

The Forbidden Zone’s Elders’ Council was divided into three factions. The Forbidden Zone Lord’s wife led one faction, supporting the Forbidden Zone Lord’s younger sister, Ye Siyu, to inherit his position.

The second faction originally supported the Second Elder’s granddaughters, Ye Qing and Ye Xue. However, the two sisters weren’t particularly attached to the position of Forbidden Zone Lord, and since they had a good relationship with Ye Lingxuan, they voluntarily withdrew from the competition and supported Ye Lingxuan’s succession.

The third faction was the newly emerged radical faction, advocating for the Forbidden Zone’s expansion. They were also Ye Lingxuan’s strongest competitors.

“According to the original plan, there will be a large-scale hunting event in seven days. That will be the first time for the younger generation successors to showcase their abilities. Miss, you must seize this opportunity. This hunting event is crucial; the victor might gain the Grand Elder’s support,” a female elder said gently, reminding her.

The Forbidden Zone’s Grand Elder held a significant position. Although usually keeping a low profile, even the Forbidden Zone Lord gave him due respect. He was highly esteemed within the Elders’ Council.

It was said that he was a living fossil from the same era as the Forbidden Zone Lord, having lived from tens of thousands of years ago until now, even giving up his chance at Dao Integration to the Forbidden Zone Lord.

At the long table, a young woman in a purple dress sat with a dignified and elegant posture, but her expression was distracted.

She didn’t even seem to hear what the female elder just said.

This puzzled the elders.

As the Forbidden Zone Lord’s daughter, Ye Lingxuan’s powerful bloodline and talent were undeniable.

Any concerns about her being indecisive after taking over were dispelled after interacting with her during the past few days.

Although this Holy Maiden was usually elegant and polite towards her elders, she was decisive in her actions and possessed the purest bloodline in the Forbidden Zone.

Undoubtedly, if they wanted to maintain the Forbidden Zone’s strength, Ye Lingxuan was the most suitable candidate.

This was also why most of the Elders’ Council supported her.

She possessed the calmness and charisma of a leader, and during past council meetings, she always offered unique insights.

Yet today…

This was the first time they had seen this Holy Maiden distracted during a meeting.

And she kept looking down at the bronze mirror created by the Desolate Time Lock under the table…

She looked like a student secretly checking their phone during class.

“Miss, is something troubling you?” a female elder asked gently with concern.

Most of the clan members in the Forbidden Zone liked this young woman. Although she possessed the talent and pride of a genius, she was humble and elegant towards her elders.

Most importantly… she was beautiful.

And everything she did was endearing.

Hearing this, the other elders also looked at Ye Lingxuan.

Ye Lingxuan snapped out of her thoughts and forced a smile: “It’s nothing… I was just thinking about the hunting event in seven days.”

Managing to brush them off, Ye Lingxuan’s thoughts returned to her conversation with the Reincarnated Empress earlier.

She slightly regretted ‘provoking’ the Reincarnated Empress.

If she failed, it would be fine, but what if that woman really succeeded in winning over Brother Mu? What would she do then?!

Imagine, Brother Mu seeing her and saying: Sister Lingxuan, where’s the Reincarnated Empress? I want to see her.

“…”

If things developed to that point, who would be the master then?

Why create an enemy for herself for no reason?!

At this moment, the young woman was filled with regret.

However, she couldn’t ask the Reincarnated Empress to stop now, no matter what.

She couldn’t lose face.

She knew she was anxious, but she also knew she couldn’t be anxious now. She had to be calm, absolutely calm…

Despite the worry in her heart, a polite and elegant smile remained on her face.

“With the Holy Maiden’s intelligence and strength, there’s no need to worry about the hunting event. I believe you will definitely impress even the Grand Elder,” an elder comforted, thinking she was distracted due to pressure.

Ye Lingxuan smiled sweetly: “Mmm… I’ll do my best.”

“Speaking of which, a group of cultivators who intended to cause chaos in the Eastern Continent seem to have been captured by the Forbidden Army outside the Forbidden Zone today. One of them seems to be Mu Zhian?” an elder suddenly asked.

“Mmm… I also heard about this. It seems the young lady directly took Young Master Mu out of prison. Although it’s understandable from an emotional standpoint, logically, it’s not quite justifiable…”

This elder seemed to be from the radical faction, using this opportunity to criticize Ye Lingxuan’s actions tonight.

Ye Lingxuan glanced at the elder and said faintly, “Elder Sun, have you forgotten his relationship with the Jade Empress?”

As soon as these words were spoken, silence fell upon the Elders’ Council.

The name “Jade Empress”, even the entire Forbidden Zone had to take seriously.

After all, she was the first Transcendence Realm expert in the Nine Provinces and had openly protected Mu Zhian several times before.

Plus, the Jade Empress recently visited the Forbidden Zone. Imprisoning Mu Zhian now was indeed inappropriate.

“However, that wedding was just a ruse for the Jade Empress’s Transcendence Tribulation, they’re not truly Dao Companions, right?” an elder questioned.

Someone beside him shook their head, “Although that’s true, judging by the final result, the Jade Empress doesn’t mind being married to Mu Zhian… That’s a fact.”

Ye Lingxuan corrected him, “They didn’t actually get married, they’re not Dao Companions. It was just a trick to fool outsiders. You elders are all experienced, would you believe such nonsense?”

“But of course, their close relationship is real, so releasing him from prison was also out of consideration for the Jade Empress,” the young woman added.

The elders exchanged glances. They were all old foxes and naturally knew why the young lady said this.

Although she usually acted mature and calm, when it came to Mu Zhian, she became like a lovestruck teenager, at a loss.

Otherwise, she wouldn’t be deliberately emphasizing that the Jade Empress and Mu Zhian weren’t Dao Companions now.

The elders remained silent, tacitly understanding each other.

“In that case, I’ll have someone settle Young Master Mu in the guest quarters for a few days. Having him stay in the young lady’s bedchamber isn’t very appropriate,” the Sixth Elder said.

Ye Lingxuan frowned slightly.

She knew this elder meant no harm, it was just ingrained old-fashioned thinking.

Some elders in the Forbidden Zone knew about the relationship between Ye Lingxuan and Mu Zhian, but they didn’t really approve.

“He’s helped me a lot in the past. No matter what, we should treat him well,” Ye Lingxuan said.

“That’s why I said to have him stay in another bedchamber and treat him well,” the Sixth Elder said with a chuckle.

Ye Lingxuan frowned. She usually listened to the elders’ suggestions with an open mind, but when it came to Mu Zhian, she rarely compromised.

Besides, this was something the clan members would have to face sooner or later.

She was about to speak.

Just then, the Sixth Elder chuckled and said, “Actually, I know how you feel about Young Master Mu, but you will be the future Empress of the Forbidden Zone. How can the Empress of a top power be the wife of a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator?”

W-wife?

The young woman was thin-skinned. Hearing this, she blushed and lowered her head, but a glint of excitement flickered in her eyes.

After a while, she coughed lightly and said demurely, “Do Brother Mu… ahem, do Mu Zhian and I really look like Dao Companions?”

“Anyone with discerning eyes can see it. If you want to pretend, Miss, at least make it more convincing,” an elder shook his head helplessly and sighed.

“I see, I’ll pay attention to it later,” Ye Lingxuan nodded politely, desperately suppressing the smile that threatened to spread across her face.

So we look that much like a couple… I didn’t even notice before.

The elders all sighed inwardly.

They really didn’t know what was so good about this Mu Zhian, that their young lady was so smitten with him. If they didn’t know better, they would think he was a Dao Integration Realm expert.

But since Ye Lingxuan cared so much about Mu Zhian, they naturally couldn’t dissuade her.

Instead of targeting Ye Lingxuan, it would be easier to have Mu Zhian give up himself.

The elders exchanged glances, seemingly having made up their minds to talk to Mu Zhian alone later.

Just then, a spy hurriedly pushed open the door and entered.

“Can’t you see the meeting isn’t over yet?” an elder frowned.

The spy knelt on one knee, panting, seemingly suppressing his excitement. After a while, he calmed down and said urgently, “Elders, the Empress of Yu State is requesting an audience outside the Forbidden Zone.”

“The Pill Emperor?!”

The elders all stood up. The Fourth Elder immediately reacted and said, “Have someone welcome the Pill Emperor… No, have them wait, I’ll personally go.”

The Fourth Elder was mainly responsible for external relations, but the Forbidden Zone was always reclusive, so he usually didn’t have much to do.

Even if he did, he would have his subordinates handle it.

But the Pill Emperor was different. She was a quasi-immortal alchemist!

Just this identity alone was enough for everyone in the Nine Provinces to actively befriend her.

“Ahem… Old Four, you’ve worked hard enough with your cultivation, there’s no need for you to personally handle such a small matter, I’ll go for you.”

Just then, an elder with a white beard coughed lightly and stood up, intending to leave.

“Get lost, maintaining external relations is my duty, are you trying to overstep your bounds?”

The Fourth Elder glared at the elder who spoke.

Then, he glanced at the other elders, seeing the envy and jealousy on their faces, and cupped his hands with a satisfied smile, “Everyone, I’ll take my leave then.”

If he could use this opportunity to befriend the Pill Emperor, perhaps he could ask her to help refine pills to extend his lifespan in the future.

For cultivators, lifespan meant endless possibilities, and those low-grade life-extending pills became less effective the higher one’s realm.

At their age, only high-grade pills could extend their lifespans.

And this was when the advantages of those high-grade alchemists were fully displayed.

The Fourth Elder naturally wouldn’t give this opportunity to befriend the Pill Emperor to anyone else.

However, just as the Fourth Elder stood up, the spy hesitated and said in a low voice, “Elder, the Pill Emperor said there’s no need for a special welcome. She came to the Forbidden Zone to see someone and will meet with her old friend afterward.”

“See someone? Did you ask who?” the Fourth Elder asked, frowning.

The spy glanced at the elders and hesitated, “Mu Zhian.”

A deathly silence fell upon the Elders’ Council.

Astonishment filled the Fourth Elder’s eyes.

After a long while, someone broke the silence in a daze, “When did the Pill Emperor of Yu State become involved with Mu Zhian?”

Within the Nine Provinces, Yu State held a special position, because there were too many alchemists in Yu State, and their Empress was infinitely close to an immortal-grade alchemist.

Not just the elders, even the Dao Integration Realm experts of the major powers in the Nine Provinces were willing to befriend this Pill Emperor.

Yet now, she had come to the Forbidden Zone specifically for Mu Zhian?

Ye Lingxuan silently watched the silent elders, not saying a word.

Only she knew the real situation.

Luo Tan had probably refined the Nine Cauldrons Nascent Soul Pill and personally delivered it to Mu Zhian.

If they knew that the Empress of Yu State had just offered her Innate Celestial Furnace to Mu Zhian without reservation, she didn’t know how they would react…

A faint smile couldn’t help but appear at the corner of her mouth.

For some reason, although she should be jealous, Ye Lingxuan inexplicably felt a bit of anticipation thinking about the elders’ expressions after learning about that.

I wonder how Brother Mu is doing…

The young girl casually glanced at the bronze mirror under the table and the scene displayed within.

As if seeing something, Ye Lingxuan’s smile faltered for a moment, her gaze freezing.

…

Fifteen minutes ago.

After circulating his Spiritual Energy for a full cycle, Mu Zhian’s aura stabilized somewhat.

He opened his eyes, emerging from his meditative state.

He sensed another person quietly standing in the room.

He followed the aura and saw the cool and aloof beauty standing quietly by the bed, wearing a simple, dark, fitted dress, a sash outlining her slender waist and full, perky bosom.

What a figure, tsk tsk…

She’s Lingxuan’s past life, but why is her chest bigger than Lingxuan’s…? Mu Zhian couldn’t help but steal a few more glances, thinking inwardly.

“The Master hasn’t fully developed yet. In her past nine lives, her chest developed very well after reaching adulthood,” the cool beauty said in a flat, emotionless tone.

Mu Zhian was stunned: “You can read minds?”

“I just roughly guessed your thoughts,” the Reincarnated Empress said faintly.

She looked like an emotionless robot, but she actually had self-awareness…

“Why are you here?” Mu Zhian asked, “Don’t you need to stay by Sister Lingxuan’s side?”

“The Master won’t be in danger in the Forbidden Zone. She’s worried about you, so she asked me to stay and protect you,” the Reincarnated Empress explained.

Most of the rules in the Forbidden Zone didn’t apply to Forbidden Zone clan members. The higher their status, the more rules didn’t apply.

And Ye Lingxuan, as the ‘reincarnated one’ of this generation, was naturally completely unaffected by the Forbidden Zone’s rules.

On the other hand, Mu Zhian might be in some danger.

Of course, these were just excuses. The real reason was a certain bet between her and her Master.

Mu Zhian nodded thoughtfully.

“Is Sister Lingxuan doing okay in the Forbidden Zone?” he asked.

The Reincarnated Empress nodded gently, “She’s doing well.”

At first, some people in the Forbidden Zone did give the Holy Maiden a hard time, hoping their own descendants could inherit the position of Forbidden Zone Lord, but later they were all won over by Ye Lingxuan’s charm.

Currently, there wasn’t anything troubling Ye Lingxuan in the Forbidden Zone.

But then, she remembered Ye Lingxuan’s instructions earlier and added, “But not particularly well.”

“Well, but not particularly well?” Mu Zhian frowned, puzzled, “Isn’t Lingxuan’s father the Forbidden Zone Lord? Could someone in the Forbidden Zone be making things difficult for her?”

The Reincarnated Empress hesitated, “The Forbidden Zone Lord won’t help his daughter too much. After all, they’re all his clan members, and the position of Forbidden Zone Lord is something she needs to earn herself.”

Mu Zhian murmured to himself, “So what she said about encountering some troubles is true?”

He was initially skeptical about the truth of Ye Lingxuan’s troubles, but since even this cool and aloof beauty said so, it must be true.

After all, this woman, who always followed Ye Lingxuan like a shadow, wouldn’t lie.

The Reincarnated Empress nodded: “She needs your help.”

Mu Zhian nodded slightly, “I’ll do my best to help her obtain that position.”

Mu Zhian had a dream.

He hoped to live a leisurely and comfortable life every day without having to work hard, chatting with rich milfs, and rightfully eating soft rice.

This dream was mostly realized now.

He imagined that after all the fish in his pond grew into big sharks, he could live such a life.

And the only problem now was that the girls around him seemed to have a slight risk of turning yandere, so he had to improve his strength a bit, lest he be locked up in the little black room one day, watching helplessly as they discussed breaking up and dividing his body parts, without any power to resist…

For this, he still needed to resolve a few more matters…

For example, helping Lin Ling transcend as soon as possible.

“I heard from Sister Lingxuan before that you have the memories of your past eight lives?” Mu Zhian suddenly asked, his gaze lingering on the cool beauty’s porcelain-like face for a moment, then quickly scanning down from her full and perky bosom to her long, snow-white legs, before retracting his gaze.

“Are you asking me if I know the whereabouts of the Flower of the Great Dao?” the cool beauty asked calmly.

Mu Zhian was silent for a moment, “You can read minds, can’t you?”

This was the second time this woman had guessed his intentions.

“I don’t know mind-reading, you’re just easy to read,” the Reincarnated Empress sized Mu Zhian up and continued, “I know where the Flower of the Great Dao is hidden.”

Mu Zhian suppressed his excitement, staring at the woman, waiting for her to continue.

However, she didn’t say anything more.

“Where is the Flower of the Great Dao?” Mu Zhian finally couldn’t help asking.

An almost imperceptible smile appeared at the corner of the Reincarnated Empress’s mouth.

His curiosity was piqued. Now, it was time to state her conditions…

The woman recalled the contents of The Art of Managing Your Husband. Then, after composing herself slightly, a bright, ice-breaking smile suddenly appeared on her cold and beautiful face:

“Telling you where the Flower of the Great Dao is hidden is no problem.”

“However, I have a condition.”

Chapter 518: On the Value of “The Art of Managing Your Husband”p2

“Okay, I understand.” She raised her beautiful eyes, gazing intently at the young man. “Brother Mu, you should also take care of yourself.”

Her pointed emphasis on “take care of yourself” clearly showed her displeasure at Mu Zhian’s recent intimacy with other women.

I get it, I get it. Be careful when getting intimate with other women, but no need to worry when it’s with Sister Lingxuan… Mu Zhian squeezed the young woman’s soft, small hand and said with a smile, “Do I also need to be careful when I’m with you?”

Seemingly catching the hidden meaning in Mu Zhian’s words, a blush flickered across the young woman’s face. She pouted and said, “I wouldn’t treat Brother Mu like those other women.”

Then, she added, “I have some matters to attend to later. Brother Mu, you can meditate and cultivate in my room.”

“After all, I just brought you out of prison. If I let you go so soon, the clan members would think I’m deliberately protecting you. So, just stay here with me for the next few days, I’ll ensure your safety.”

“It sounds like you’re keeping me as your boy toy,” Mu Zhian chuckled.

Ye Lingxuan covered her mouth and giggled, glancing at Mu Zhian, “That’s not impossible. If Brother Mu stays in the Forbidden Zone, I can give you a million spirit stones every month.”

“Let’s forget about that. If I really let you keep me, everyone would look down on me,” Mu Zhian shrugged.

Ye Lingxuan frowned slightly, “Who would dare look down on Brother Mu? Even ignoring your talent, with your intelligence, you can offer me plenty of advice… And you can also keep Lingxuan company, so a million spirit stones is nothing.”

“Be your personal attendant, is it?” Mu Zhian said jokingly.

Ye Lingxuan’s brows relaxed, “That’s not impossible either. I won’t let Brother Mu do anything dangerous, just stay with Lingxuan.”

“After all, I only have Brother Mu now.”

The young woman’s tone suddenly became much lower, “I never thought there would be a day I would rely on Brother Mu.”

Mu Zhian sensed the worry in her words, “What’s wrong? Is someone else competing with you for the position of Forbidden Zone Lord?”

Ye Lingxuan hummed softly in agreement. “Of course. After all, I’m not the only young genius in the Forbidden Zone, and my father can’t openly support me just because I’m his daughter, right? The other factions in the Forbidden Zone have been developing quite well these years, and they all support their own descendants. I’m all alone.”

As the young woman spoke, the light in her usually bright eyes dimmed slightly.

With her beautiful and innocent face and her slightly bitten lip, the Forbidden Zone imperial daughter looked helpless and fragile at this moment.

It was the first time Mu Zhian had seen this proud imperial daughter show such an expression. His heart softened, and he reached out, pulling her into his embrace, and said gently, “Don’t worry, I’ll help you.”

Hope flickered in Ye Lingxuan’s eyes, and she looked up, “Really? So Brother Mu won’t leave Lingxuan?”

Mu Zhian hesitated slightly, then hummed softly in agreement, “I’ll stay here with you until you inherit the position of Forbidden Zone Lord.”

The reserved and elegant young woman’s eyes were filled with affection as she gently rested her forehead against Mu Zhian’s chest and whispered, “Brother Mu is the best~”

A cunning glint flashed through her eyes as she spoke.

Even the Forbidden Zone imperial daughter, who used to disdain palace intrigue, after being ‘beaten up’ by reality recently, realized she could no longer be a pure and innocent little white rabbit.

Gentleness was useless!

After cuddling in Mu Zhian’s embrace for a while, a thought seemed to occur to her, and she suddenly asked suspiciously, “Speaking of which, what’s the relationship between that Holy Maiden from Xuanyin Temple and Brother Mu? I don’t think you’ve ever mentioned her before… But she seemed very worried when you were imprisoned today.”

A hint of danger laced her words.

“I saved her once at the Sword Palace before. Miss Lin probably values kindness and was worried about my safety,” Mu Zhian said with a smile.

Lin Keyu just didn’t expect the Forbidden Zone to be Mu Zhian’s second home…

“I see,” Ye Lingxuan hummed softly and didn’t ask any more questions.

But she discreetly glanced at Mu Zhian a few more times, suspicion in her eyes.

She possessed the Innate Spiritual Body. Although the Spirit Dragon’s shielding technique was on Mu Zhian’s Innate Celestial Furnace, she still sensed that his Heavenly Court Spiritual Energy had been greatly depleted.

Logically, they only fooled around three times tonight… It shouldn’t have caused such a significant loss of Heavenly Court Spiritual Energy.

Mu Zhian said calmly, “Since you have something to do, you can go ahead. I’ll meditate and cultivate for a while, to consolidate my current cauldron.”

I can’t continue this conversation. This girl’s ability to catch someone cheating seems to be getting stronger and stronger. If I continue, I’ll be exposed…

Mu Zhian suddenly felt immense pressure.

Originally, Ye Lingxuan and Ye Qian were easy to appease, but now, the older sister was gradually becoming a great white shark…

Ye Lingxuan hummed softly in agreement and turned to leave the room.

She didn’t leave immediately. After closing the door, she went to the central courtyard outside the bedchamber. Her previously gentle and innocent expression turned slightly cold, “What is it?”

Not far from Ye Lingxuan, the cool and aloof beauty with long, flowing hair stood quietly, her voice calm and composed, “Nothing, just guarding the door so no one notices anything happening here.”

Ye Lingxuan looked at her doubtfully, “It doesn’t matter if someone finds out I slept with Brother Mu, right?”

After all, the Forbidden Zone clan members knew about their relationship.

“Normally, it wouldn’t matter, but did you forget what you said when you returned to the Forbidden Zone, Miss?”

The Reincarnated Empress said, “After seeing Mu Zhian’s intimacy with other women through the Desolate Time Lock, you were so upset that you said you didn’t like Mu Zhian anymore and wouldn’t bother with him even if he came to the Forbidden Zone… If someone sees you with him now, especially being so intimate, I’m worried you’ll lose face before the clan members.”

Ye Lingxuan was stunned.

She just realized she had actually said such a thing.

The young woman’s face turned slightly uncomfortable. She coughed lightly and said, trying to maintain her composure, “What do you know? This is just to make Brother Mu… Mu Zhian lower his guard. After he’s captivated by my charm, I’ll lock him in the little black room and vent all my frustrations from this period.”

The Reincarnated Empress tilted her head, looking at her, “Is that so? But why do I feel like you’re the one captivated by Mu Zhian’s charm?”

“That’s your illusion,” Ye Lingxuan said calmly.

“But you clearly cried out ‘Brother Mu, please love me’ tonight… or something like that.”

Ye Lingxuan: “…”

She shot an annoyed glance at the cool beauty who completely didn’t understand how to ‘give her a way out’, “That was also part of the plan. How could you, an emotionless puppet, understand my thoughts?”

“What do you mean by venting your frustrations on him later? Torture? Or having him remove your shoes submissively and then (censored) – you know, those little couple games? I’m inclined to think you’ll choose the second option, because the Art of Managing Your Husband you were reading mentioned that some men have foot fetishes, and you even made a note on that page…”

Silence fell upon the courtyard.

Under the night sky, a captivating blush colored Ye Lingxuan’s pure and pretty face as she glared at the cool beauty.

“Am I the master, or are you? Some things should be kept in your heart and never spoken, lest you anger someone.”

She knew that although the Reincarnated Empress always followed her like a shadow, with her three-no’s (emotionless, voiceless, tearless) demeanor, she actually had emotions, just didn’t usually express them.

The Reincarnated Empress opened her mouth, as if wanting to say something, but held back.

Ye Lingxuan nodded with satisfaction, then continued, “Brother Mu will at least stay until I inherit the position of Forbidden Zone Empress. During this time, find a way to create some trouble for me, so I can discuss solutions with him and deepen our relationship.”

“…”

The Reincarnated Empress looked at her master silently, speechless.

This request was a bit too much, wasn’t it?

There were three major factions in the Forbidden Zone, and there were indeed people from all three factions competing with Ye Lingxuan for the position of Forbidden Zone Lord. However, two of the factions had already pledged their allegiance not long ago… The situation was completely one-sided.

And now, Miss wanted her to create some difficulties…?

Ye Lingxuan raised her proud, snow-white chin and said faintly, “Men have their pride. If I directly asked Brother Mu to stay and accompany me, he might not agree. Even if he did agree because of my request, his heart wouldn’t be here, so I have to give him something to do, to satisfy his sense of accomplishment.”

“The Art of Managing Your Husband says that men are strange creatures. Sometimes they like strong women, and sometimes they like damsels in distress… I used to think this was much more difficult than cultivation, but now that I think about it, it all depends on improvisation.”

“Although your strength is greater than mine, you still have much to learn about human relationships.”

A rare flicker of emotion appeared in the Reincarnated Empress’s usually cold and indifferent eyes. She murmured thoughtfully, “Mmm, so the Jade Empress has already mastered Mu Zhian’s psychology, that’s why she could control him so easily last night.”

“?”

Ye Lingxuan’s calm expression faltered, and she looked up, “…Last night?”

The Reincarnated Empress silently glanced at the young girl, “No wonder, you didn’t know about this? I was wondering why you were smiling so happily when you came out.”

“But I clearly froze time just now…” Ye Lingxuan murmured.

The Reincarnated Empress explained, “The Jade Empress used the Principles of Time to freeze the time you froze, then in your bed, with your Brother Mu…”

Seeing Ye Lingxuan’s disbelieving expression, the Reincarnated Empress said faintly, “Instead of competing with me, Master, it would be more practical to think about how to keep your Brother Mu in the Forbidden Zone.”

It took Ye Lingxuan a while to recover, the light in her eyes gradually dimming.

“What do you plan to do next? Do you need me to keep Mu Zhian in the Forbidden Zone for you?” the Reincarnated Empress asked.

Ye Lingxuan glanced at the woman indifferently, “I know you’re retaliating against me for saying you don’t understand human relationships, but even if you understand emotions, you don’t understand the relationship between men and women. On what grounds should I keep Brother Mu here? Or do you plan to keep both his body and mind in the Forbidden Zone?”

“Even I haven’t thought of a good solution in such a short time, let alone you.”

The Reincarnated Empress raised a delicate eyebrow, her long legs crossed, her cold and beautiful face still expressionless, “I was also watching every night when you were reading The Art of Managing Your Husband in your room. I know all the theories you know. Keeping both his body and mind in the Forbidden Zone, I don’t think it’s that difficult.”

“But I’m worried that if he becomes captivated by my charm, you’ll blame me.”

Ye Lingxuan raised her magnificent purple eyes, gazed at the woman before her, and said calmly, “If you really have the ability to captivate Brother Mu, then go ahead and try. I won’t interfere, and I won’t blame you afterward, I’ll only acknowledge your ability.”

The Reincarnated Empress said faintly, “Then just watch carefully through the Desolate Time Lock. I will keep both his body and mind in the Forbidden Zone.”

Ye Lingxuan chuckled softly.

She knew very well how difficult Brother Mu was to control. Even someone as proud as her felt frustrated when facing him, let alone the Reincarnated Empress, who didn’t understand the relationship between men and women at all?

“If you can do it, then by all means, try,” she said faintly.

Chapter 518: On the Value of “The Art of Managing Your Husband”p1 

It had to be said, this woman always seemed to know exactly how to hit Mu Zhian’s XP.

Just like now, with just a few simple words, she had managed to capture his heart…

There was no helping it.

She was just too alluring.

Actually, it wasn’t just Yao Meng. Even Ye Lingxuan now seemed to know his XP, always managing to tug at his heartstrings unintentionally.

It was as if someone was secretly observing Mu Zhian’s every move, then writing down his preferences in a guidebook and distributing it to the fish in his pond.

Mu Zhian was filled with emotion.

“What are you thinking about?”

Yao Meng covered her chest with one hand, her other hand gently toying with the young man’s hair, and asked with a smile.

A faint blush colored her cheeks, and a look of satisfaction lingered on her face.

Mu Zhian came back to his senses, glanced at the still wind outside the window, then at his shrunken body, and hesitated, “Could you let me return to normal first?”

A charming smile bloomed on Yao Meng’s beautiful face, “Don’t you think you’re cuter like this?”

Although she said that, she still raised her fingertip. The Principles of Time accelerated Mu Zhian’s body, transforming him from a young boy back into a handsome young man.

Yao Meng, who could now perfectly control the Principles of Time, could freely rewind or restore Mu Zhian’s age.

Feeling the renewed vigor flowing through him, Mu Zhian stretched lazily and said, “I was just thinking about Lin Ling.”

Yao Meng narrowed her eyes: “You mean the Immortal Medicine that can connect with the Great Dao, the Flower of the Great Dao?”

“I know you came to the Forbidden Zone for it, but I’ve already met with the Forbidden Zone Lord, and even she doesn’t know what the Flower of the Great Dao is.”

Mu Zhian asked in surprise, “Isn’t the Immortal Medicine something from the Forbidden Zone? Why haven’t they seen it before?”

Yao Meng didn’t answer, but instead asked, “Do you know what the Forbidden Zone was originally?”

“One of the Nine Forbidden Lands of the Nine Provinces… But isn’t the current Forbidden Zone built upon the ruins of the Forbidden Land?” Mu Zhian hesitated.

He found it unbelievable that the Forbidden Zone Lord didn’t know what the Immortal Medicine was, or where it was hidden.

“The Forbidden Zone’s predecessor was indeed the Eastern Continent’s Forbidden Land, but do you know who the first Forbidden Zone Lord was?”

Yao Meng said, “The Eastern Continent’s Forbidden Land was the most powerful in the Nine Provinces, but also the most unfortunate. Since its birth, it has been purged by more than three Dao Integration Realm experts. The identity of the first person who suppressed the Forbidden Land is unknown, and the second was the ancestor of the Lan Clan.”

“As for the third… you’ve also heard of her name.”

“The Reincarnated Empress?” Mu Zhian’s eyes flickered, “So the first Forbidden Zone Lord was actually the Reincarnated Empress?”

“The Reincarnated Empress only cultivated in the Forbidden Land, waiting for her next life. The one who actually improved the Forbidden Land’s rules later was the current Forbidden Zone Lord.”

Yao Meng lowered her voice, “But speaking of the Flower of the Great Dao, even the Forbidden Zone Lord probably doesn’t know about it. Otherwise, he would have taken the Immortal Medicine to the Pill Emperor long ago. I suspect the Immortal Medicine was taken away before he entered the Forbidden Zone. Even if it wasn’t, it must be hidden somewhere even a Dao Integration Realm expert can’t detect.”

“So, I think only the three people who initially suppressed the Forbidden Land know about the Flower of the Great Dao.”

Mu Zhian pondered for a moment, “So, the only ones who might know where the Flower of the Great Dao is hidden now are the Lan Clan ancestor and the Reincarnated Empress?”

“After all, only three people knew about the Flower of the Great Dao’s whereabouts, and the identity of the first person who entered the Forbidden Land is currently a mystery, they might even be dead.”

Judging by the timeline, the first person who suppressed the Forbidden Land lived an immeasurable time ago.

One hundred thousand years? Several hundred thousand years?

Mu Zhian wasn’t sure.

But a Dao Integration Realm expert couldn’t possibly live for that long. Only those who transcended could achieve longevity.

However, there probably weren’t any Transcendence Realm experts back then.

Just then, Yao Meng suddenly said, “I think that person might still be alive.”

“A place like the Forbidden Land, even Dao Integration Realm experts risk death entering, because even they can’t escape the rules of heaven and earth. Therefore… the one who could suppress the nine Forbidden Lands can only be at Transcendence Realm or even higher.”

Mu Zhian frowned in thought.

That’s right…

He had overlooked one fact. The reason the Forbidden Lands were called forbidden was because their rules were different from the outside world. Even Dao Integration Realm experts would be affected by the rules within the Forbidden Lands.

So the only ones who could suppress the Forbidden Lands were Transcendence Realm experts.

Because there were ancient beings residing within the Forbidden Lands, and these ancient beings weren’t affected by the rules within.

The strength of the ancient beings in the nine Forbidden Lands was unfathomable.

Just as Mu Zhian thought of this, his train of thought suddenly stopped. He turned to Yao Meng and asked in a low voice, “You just said only three people know about the Flower of the Great Dao? But the Princess also mentioned it to me before…”

Yao Meng explained, “The Princess is innately connected to the Great Dao, so in a sense, she’s omniscient. However, she’s still at Dao Integration Realm, so many things she knows are still blurry.”

“So, I need to ask the Reincarnated Empress, or go to the Lan Clan?” Mu Zhian murmured to himself.

He couldn’t possibly search the entire world for the person who suppressed the Forbidden Land back then, right?

Yao Meng pondered slightly, then looked at the young girl nestled in Mu Zhian’s arms and said with a faint smile, “The Reincarnated Empress is in the Forbidden Zone, you can start with her, perhaps you can find the answer.”

The ‘Reincarnated Empress’ beside Ye Lingxuan inherited the memories of her eight past lives, so she might know the whereabouts of the Flower of the Great Dao.

Mu Zhian nodded gently, still pondering Yao Meng’s words.

Only three people knew about the Flower of the Great Dao. The Princess, because she was connected to the Great Dao, was omniscient to a certain extent…

He seemed to realize something, his expression suddenly freezing.

“I’ll restore time now.”

Yao Meng noticed Mu Zhian’s unusual behavior, her delicate brows furrowing slightly, “What’s wrong? Did you think of something?”

Mu Zhian didn’t answer, just stared blankly for a long time, then murmured softly, “So it was her…”

“What are you talking about?” Yao Meng asked doubtfully.

Mu Zhian came back to his senses, shook his head, and smiled, “Nothing… Unfreeze time.”

He paused, glanced at the young girl in his arms, and asked, “Right… Aren’t you leaving?”

If Ye Lingxuan found out that her Brother Mu was being intimate with the woman she hated most in her bed… Mu Zhian felt that even if he found the Flower of the Great Dao, whether he could bring it out was another question.

Yao Meng smiled playfully, “You’re really considerate of the Forbidden Zone imperial daughter.”

“I can leave, but I have a condition.”

She gently caressed the young man’s face and smiled tenderly, “If you don’t want your Sister Lingxuan to find out about tonight, come see me alone tomorrow night~”

The joy of cuckolding someone was always so delightful.

Mu Zhian was stunned, then said helplessly, “This is the Forbidden Zone, after all, filled with Lingxuan’s people. If we’re discovered, you can naturally leave, but I’ll be in trouble.”

Yao Meng said with a faint smile, “This is also to train your counter-reconnaissance abilities. I’ll be waiting for you in the guest room tomorrow night.”

A faint light enveloped her body. The next moment, her green dress covered her smooth and firm skin, her long hair cascading down like a waterfall.

She glanced at the frozen time and snapped her fingers.

Time resumed its flow.

…

“Mmm…”

Ye Lingxuan frowned slightly and slowly opened her eyes.

She lazily looked around, her delicate body covered by a thin white inner garment, her messy hair framing her pure and pretty face.

She seemed somewhat dazed.

Did I fall asleep? Why does it feel like I just had a very long dream?

Ye Lingxuan felt puzzled. Cultivators above Core Formation could go without sleep as long as their mental power was sufficient, especially her.

Yet she actually felt sleepy after just a short while?

The bedchamber was quiet in the night, without a sound.

In mid-air, the golden light of the Desolate Time Lock enveloped the room, freezing time within the entire bedchamber.

The golden light made the young girl’s face appear especially holy and captivating. She looked up slightly at the young man before her and asked softly, “Brother Mu, how long did I sleep just now?”

Mu Zhian thought for a moment and said, “About half an hour.”

Ye Lingxuan’s delicate brows furrowed slightly, and she murmured to herself, “I actually fell asleep? That’s strange, I didn’t feel that tired.”

Yao Meng froze the time that the Desolate Time Lock paused, but Lingxuan can still sense the abnormality… Mu Zhian thought inwardly, somewhat surprised.

But that made sense. Both of them controlled time, but Ye Lingxuan hadn’t fully matured into a big shark yet, so she was naturally inferior to Yao Meng in terms of the Principles of Time.

Mu Zhian gently stroked Ye Lingxuan’s head and said softly, “You’ve been busy with the inheritance ceremony recently. Even if your body isn’t tired, you should pay attention to your mental state and not put too much pressure on yourself.”

The warmth of his hand brought an inexplicable sense of security, making the young girl involuntarily close her eyes and immerse herself in it, dismissing the doubts in her heart.

Chapter 517: One Encounter with the Jade Empress, A Lifetime of Mistakes  p2

Meanwhile, within the Yu State imperial palace, thousands of kilometers away from the Forbidden Zone, a woman in a snow-white dress stood before a cauldron, flames roaring within.

The Princess stood not far from her. Today, she wore a beautiful, open-front jacket embroidered with plump crabapple blossoms, perfectly complementing her own beauty and voluptuous figure, outlining her full and perky bosom and slender waist.

The Princess’s clear, watery eyes lingered on the cauldron for a long time, and she praised, “It’s said that there’s nothing the Myriad Transformations Qi Cauldron can’t refine. Seeing it today, it truly lives up to its reputation as Yu State’s ancestral artifact.”

An ancestral artifact was a weapon painstakingly nurtured by a Dao Integration Realm expert. And Luo Tan’s Myriad Transformations Qi Cauldron was rumored to be able to perfectly refine even Immortal Medicine, thus refining immortal-grade pills.

Judging from the current situation, it seemed quite possible.

Luo Tan didn’t answer, her attention completely focused on the cauldron before her.

After two hours of refining, although the Pill Tribulation had passed, to maximize the pill’s effects, she naturally wouldn’t relax now.

Rumble…

With a rumbling sound, Luo Tan slowly opened her calm eyes.

A perfectly round pill flew out from the Myriad Transformations Qi Cauldron and landed in Luo Tan’s hand.

“Is he still in the Forbidden Zone?” Luo Tan asked.

The Princess hummed softly in agreement, “The shielding technique the Spirit Dragon cast on him will be undone when his Soul Transformation Heavenly Tribulation descends. But if the Spirit Dragon can reach Transcendence before that, perhaps the problem can be easily resolved.”

Luo Tan’s delicate brows furrowed slightly. If ‘Transcendence’ was that easy, there wouldn’t be only the Jade Empress and the Sword Palace Master who successfully transcended in the Nine Provinces for so long.

“The Spirit Dragon is connected to the Great Dao. If she hasn’t communicated with the Great Dao, it will be difficult for her to transcend,” Luo Tan gently shook her head.

“That’s why he went to the Forbidden Zone,” the Princess said.

“I can’t help the Spirit Dragon, but the Flower of the Great Dao within the Forbidden Zone can.”

Luo Tan nodded thoughtfully, then suddenly paused, looking at the Princess doubtfully, “Haven’t you been a bit too kind to him recently…?”

She was worried that the Princess might accidentally reveal the relationship between Mu Zhian and her.

The Great Peng Emperor’s wife having an incredibly close relationship with another man… If this were to spread, it would be troublesome.

“Don’t worry, I know my limits.”

The Princess smiled brightly, “After he successfully reaches Soul Transformation, I’ll return to Cloud Province and focus on government affairs, waiting for the day I can take him to Cloud Province for a visit.”

Luo Tan was momentarily speechless, “I shouldn’t have let you notice him in the first place.”

Without the Princess, after Mu Zhian reached Soul Transformation, she could enjoy the Transcendence Realm Innate Celestial Furnace all to herself.

“Even without me, do you really think you can enjoy the cake alone?”

A playful smile appeared on the Princess’s face, “Do you know how many people are waiting for him to reach Soul Transformation?”

Luo Tan was silent.

It was truly a headache. She finally took a liking to a man, but his Innate Celestial Furnace meant he was destined to be noticed by countless female cultivators.

As if knowing Luo Tan’s thoughts, the Princess smiled gently, “Actually, you don’t need to worry, the one who should be worried is the Jade Empress… After all, on the surface, she’s the one who’s married to Mu Zhian.”

Luo Tan thought about it, and it seemed to make sense.

She was the one doing the ‘cuckolding’. Why should she worry about Mu Zhian’s Innate Celestial Furnace being targeted by other women after being exposed?

The Jade Empress should be the one worried.

“What are your plans next?” the Princess suddenly asked.

Luo Tan thought for a moment, then said with a smile, “Come to think of it, it’s been a while since I went out. I’ll personally go to the Forbidden Zone tomorrow to give him the pill, and also pay my respects to the Forbidden Zone Lord.”

…

That night.

The Desolate Time Lock floated in mid-air, time frozen. Mu Zhian lay in bed, pondering life.

And Ye Lingxuan nestled in the young man’s arms like a clingy cat.

If the Forbidden Zone clan members saw this scene, they would probably be shocked. That usually cool, aloof, and elegant Forbidden Zone imperial daughter actually had such a cuddly side in private.

“Sister Lingxuan, you just let me out like this, won’t it affect your inheritance ceremony?” Mu Zhian suddenly asked.

However, after a while, there was no response.

Asleep?

Although the young girl kept saying she was exhausted earlier, she was the Reincarnated Empress, after all. She shouldn’t be so tired that she needed to sleep, right?

Mu Zhian looked down and saw that the young girl, nestled in his arms, remained motionless.

The wind outside blew against the curtains, but they froze mid-air, as if even the wind was frozen.

A fresh and captivating fragrance wafted over.

“No need to call out. Only you can move freely in this bedchamber. Time is frozen for everything else.”

Yao Meng sat on the edge of the bed, looking at the young man with a smile, her beauty captivating.

Her tall and graceful figure was faintly visible in the immortal mist, her holy and seductive voice carrying a hint of playfulness, “Are you surprised? Why are you looking at me with such a shocked expression?”

Mu Zhian was clearly stunned.

“Isn’t time frozen by Sister Lingxuan’s Desolate Time Lock? Why are you here?” Mu Zhian asked incredulously.

“She hasn’t completed the inheritance ceremony with the Reincarnated Empress yet, so I froze the time she froze again.”

Yao Meng said with a smile, “But it seems I’m still a step too late… Your Innate Celestial Furnace seems to have lost quite a bit of Spiritual Energy.”

You paused the time she paused? That’s even possible?

Mu Zhian was momentarily speechless.

“When did you know I came to the Forbidden Zone?” Mu Zhian asked in a low voice.

“I sensed it the moment you entered, but I was talking to Qian’er at the time, so I didn’t disturb you.”

Yao Meng continued on her own, “After you reach Soul Transformation, the matter of your Innate Celestial Furnace might be exposed… The cultivators outside probably think I’m worried about this, right?”

“After all, the temptation of the Innate Celestial Furnace is something few female cultivators can resist.”

She paused, then said deliberately, “Even married women would find it hard to resist your Innate Celestial Furnace.”

This was clearly referring to the Princess.

Even Mu Zhian, whose mentality was usually as steady as a rock, couldn’t help but feel panicked upon hearing these words, “Sorry.”

He thought Yao Meng would be angry, or even settle the score with him, because of what happened in Yu State during this time.

However, whether it was because she cultivated the Dao of Tranquility or something else, Yao Meng’s next words were unexpected.

“It’s fine, I don’t really mind you being intimate with other women.”

Seeing Mu Zhian’s surprised expression, a playful smile appeared at the corner of Yao Meng’s mouth.

“So you don’t need to worry about your Innate Celestial Furnace being discovered during the tribulation. Just focus on passing the Soul Transformation Heavenly Tribulation.”

“You don’t mind me being intimate with other women…?” Mu Zhian still couldn’t believe it, looking at Yao Meng.

He had always felt that a woman like Yao Meng was the perfect lover… And although her words tonight seemed to reveal a flaw, to a man… this seemed like a perfect advantage.

At least, it was to Mu Zhian…

“You wish.”

Yao Meng rolled her eyes at Mu Zhian, a slight smile playing on her lips, “I know about your past in Tianxuan City, so I don’t mind you being intimate with other women, but only if it’s with my knowledge.”

Mu Zhian understood. To Yao Meng, being cuckolded had two meanings: physically and mentally.

If it was with her knowledge, it didn’t matter, but if it was behind her back… that meant both physically and mentally cuckolding her.

That was a completely different situation.

Yao Meng came to the Forbidden Zone to see Ye Qian this time precisely to figure out her own XP.

“I might need to make some preparations before Soul Transformation.”

Mu Zhian said, “After reaching the peak of Nascent Soul Realm, I feel my aura is a bit unstable. I might need some time to consolidate it, otherwise, it might leave hidden dangers, making it difficult to reach Dao Integration or even Transcendence in the future.”

Yao Meng thought for a moment, then said with a smile, “Actually, reaching Transcendence isn’t that difficult.”

Mu Zhian couldn’t help but look at the fairy a few more times.

Even Yao Meng herself had gone through great lengths to reach Transcendence.

Yet she was bragging now?

“Anyway, you won’t be able to reach Transcendence anytime soon.”

She glanced at Ye Lingxuan, who was nestled in Mu Zhian’s arms, and gently caressed the young girl’s face.

Then, she casually sat down beside the young man.

Before Mu Zhian could speak, Yao Meng looked down at him, her long hair brushing against his arm, ticklish, carrying a faint fragrance.

She leaned down, gently touched the young man’s lips with her fingertip, and whispered, “However, there’s another way for you to reach Transcendence.”

“What way?” Mu Zhian asked doubtfully.

Yao Meng glanced at the young man seductively, her soft body pressing gently against him, nestled against him on one side, with Ye Lingxuan on the other.

Then, her captivating voice, filled with charm, echoed through the bedchamber.

“I am at Transcendence Realm, silly.”

Chapter 517: One Encounter with the Jade Empress, A Lifetime of Mistakes  p1

That night, Ye Lingxuan brought Mu Zhian to her bedchamber.

She sat at the table, facing the young man.

“Brother Mu, don’t you have anything to explain?” the young woman asked with a flat expression.

Mu Zhian paused, then said, “The one I gave Princess Yongning at first was indeed an Aurora Crystal. It was later switched with a Curse Stone by someone else among them.”

“That’s not what I’m asking!”

Ye Lingxuan glared at him, her voice softening slightly, “Didn’t you promise to come back to the Forbidden Zone with me? Why did you take so long?”

“I went to Cloud Province to prepare some heavenly materials and earthly treasures for Soul Transformation.”

Mu Zhian gestured towards the black chains on his hands, “Can you take these off first?”

Ye Lingxuan hummed softly in agreement. This was one of the Forbidden Zone’s secret techniques. As the Forbidden Zone Holy Maiden, she naturally had a way to remove them.

However, just as she was about to do so, she paused, her eyes flickering as she stared at Mu Zhian.

“…What’s wrong?”

Uncomfortable under the young woman’s gaze, Mu Zhian couldn’t help but ask.

The young woman sat on the table behind him, golden chains swirling around her, only her slender and elegant figure visible, and those eyes that seemed to hold a hint of amusement, “Nothing. Brother Mu, explain what you were doing in Cloud Province first, then I’ll take them off. It’s not like they’re hindering you.”

Mu Zhian thought for a moment, seemingly understanding something, and hesitated, “Did you spy on me?”

Ye Lingxuan was stunned, seemingly not expecting Mu Zhian to be so perceptive, “Did that cheating hussy tell you?”

Cheating?

“It has nothing to do with the Princess…” A look of suspicion appeared in Mu Zhian’s eyes, “You did use the Desolate Time Lock to spy on me, didn’t you?”

Ye Lingxuan remained calm and composed, stubbornly denying it, “No, it was just a simple guess. Didn’t Brother Mu go to Yu State for the Innate Celestial Furnace… The Pill Emperor of Yu State and the Princess of Cloud Province are close friends. I thought if she saw you, she definitely wouldn’t let you off easily.”

“Compared to that, what is Brother Mu doing in the Forbidden Zone? You haven’t reached Soul Transformation yet, have you?”

Seemingly worried that Mu Zhian would continue questioning her, Ye Lingxuan quickly changed the subject.

Mu Zhian glanced at the young woman discreetly, knowing she was deliberately changing the subject, but didn’t expose her, “Have you heard of the Flower of the Great Dao?”

Ye Lingxuan’s delicate brows furrowed slightly, and she asked doubtfully, “What’s that?”

She hadn’t inherited the Reincarnated Empress’s memories yet, so naturally she didn’t know what the Flower of the Great Dao was.

Even within the Forbidden Zone, very few people knew about this Immortal Medicine.

Mu Zhian thought for a moment and asked, “Is Dad free recently? I want to see him.”

Ye Lingxuan couldn’t help but roll her eyes at Mu Zhian.

If the Forbidden Zone Lord heard Mu Zhian address him like that, he would probably feel quite strange.

“My father has been in seclusion for over a month. Even the inheritance ceremony was presided over by my mother. But according to her, he’ll be out within half a month,” Ye Lingxuan said.

Mu Zhian made a thoughtful “hmm” sound, then, as if recalling something, he asked, “Did your father enter seclusion right after you and Sister Ye returned?”

Ye Lingxuan looked at Mu Zhian in surprise, “How did Brother Mu know?”

“…As expected.”

Hearing Ye Lingxuan’s answer, an amused smile appeared on Mu Zhian’s face, and he murmured thoughtfully to himself.

He knew there was some conflict between the Forbidden Zone and the Ye Clan in the past. The Forbidden Zone Lord’s seclusion this time was probably because he hadn’t figured out how to face that beautiful ancestor of the Ye Clan.

Even if Ye Qingxin didn’t mind the Forbidden Zone separating from the Ye Clan later, the Forbidden Zone Lord would still feel awkward.

“Compared to that, why did Brother Mu come to the Forbidden Zone before reaching Soul Transformation? Are you in trouble?” Ye Lingxuan asked curiously.

According to their previous plan, Mu Zhian should have waited until he successfully passed the Soul Transformation Heavenly Tribulation in Yu State before leaving. His appearance in the Forbidden Zone now was truly strange.

Mu Zhian smiled, reached out, and gently rubbed Ye Lingxuan’s head, whispering, “Can’t I come just because I want to see you?”

Ye Lingxuan’s eyes lit up with joy, and she shyly lowered her head.

After chatting in the room for a while, a smile gradually appeared on Ye Lingxuan’s pure and pretty face.

“By the way, I might be staying in the Forbidden Zone for a few days. I want to see your father after he comes out of seclusion…”

Ye Lingxuan hummed softly in agreement, “I understand. I’ll make the arrangements for Brother Mu after my father comes out. Can you remove the Southern Wilderness secret technique first? I can’t see your face.”

Although his hands were bound by the black shackles of the Forbidden Zone, removing the Southern Wilderness secret technique was still easy for the current Mu Zhian.

As the black mist dispersed, Ye Lingxuan’s gaze immediately fixed on Mu Zhian.

His features were as refined as jade, his aura carrying an inexplicable ‘charm’.

To a young woman of this age experiencing her first stirrings of love, Mu Zhian’s appearance perfectly matched all her fantasies, his mannerisms exuding the air of a noble young master, elegant and refined.

As the Forbidden Zone’s imperial daughter, Ye Lingxuan had seen countless talented young men in the past, but she had never cared about any of them.

Perhaps there were those who could compare to Mu Zhian in terms of looks, but their temperament was far inferior.

Even though Mu Zhian hadn’t even spoken yet, Ye Lingxuan’s gaze was fixated on his fair and delicate face, as if captivated.

Mu Zhian naturally noticed Ye Lingxuan’s gaze and couldn’t help but find it amusing.

From the moment he entered the bedchamber with Ye Lingxuan, his gaze had involuntarily drifted towards her, because Ye Lingxuan’s attire today was somewhat different from the past.

Tonight, Ye Lingxuan wore a meticulously tailored, magnificent purple dress that accentuated her graceful figure. And beneath her skirt, she wore a pair of light purple boots, the space between the boots and the skirt revealing her fair and slender legs.

Mu Zhian had seen this kind of attire many times, but Ye Lingxuan’s near-perfect figure seemed to give her a unique elegance and nobility that other girls lacked.

Her long, black hair cascaded down to her slender waist, making her appear even more pure and lovely under the candlelight.

At this moment, the elegant young woman gazed at the young man with clear and bright eyes, seemingly filled with affection.

Well, after all, she and Mu Zhian hadn’t seen each other for a while, and the young woman had been busy with the inheritance ceremony, which must have been quite stressful.

Thinking of this, Mu Zhian couldn’t help but reach out and gently stroke the young woman’s hair, “You’ve worked hard with the inheritance ceremony recently.”

Ye Lingxuan gently shook her head: “This is something I have to face sooner or later, it’s not hard work.”

“Compared to that, Brother Mu has worked harder. After all, in a place like Yu State, unfamiliar with the people and the land… you must have encountered many difficulties, right?” Ye Lingxuan looked at him with a smile.

Why does that sound sarcastic…?

Mu Zhian smiled casually, “I did encounter some minor troubles, but Her Majesty the Pill Emperor treated me quite well and protected me.”

Protected?

It’s probably more than just protection, right?

Hearing Mu Zhian’s words, the young woman maintained an innocent expression on the surface, but she couldn’t help but recall the scenes she saw through the Desolate Time Lock a few days ago.

Not only the Pill Emperor, but even the Great Peng Emperor’s wife seemed to have some involvement with Brother Mu…

“It’s late, I won’t disturb your rest. I’ll come see you tomorrow.”

After spending some intimate time chatting with Ye Lingxuan in the room, Mu Zhian stood up, intending to leave.

However, just then, he suddenly heard the sound of chains colliding.

The Desolate Time Lock?!

Mu Zhian reacted almost instantly, abruptly turning his head to look, only to see the Desolate Time Lock had already appeared before him like a blur.

The golden lock tilted its head, as if saying: Finally, something to do?

“Sister Lingxuan, is there anything else? Why did you summon the Desolate Time Lock?”

Sensing the change in atmosphere, Mu Zhian maintained a calm expression, but his heart was racing.

Seeing Mu Zhian’s seemingly puzzled look, Ye Lingxuan smiled charmingly and said softly, “Brother Mu, just go and rest, and take care of your own matters. Lingxuan will always silently protect you… Did you think I would say that, Brother Mu?”

The corner of the Forbidden Zone imperial daughter’s mouth curved upwards, a mischievous, almost devilish smile replacing her previous innocent look. She stepped closer to Mu Zhian. He subconsciously took half a step back, his heel hitting the door behind him.

Ye Lingxuan’s body pressed him against the door.

She gently caressed Mu Zhian’s face, a playful glint in her beautiful, light purple eyes, and whispered, “I brought Brother Mu away in front of so many people tonight. If I just let Brother Mu leave without any interrogation, the people of the Forbidden Zone would think I’m abusing my power, ignoring the rules, right? It wouldn’t be very convincing.”

These words were clearly just an excuse. With Ye Lingxuan’s status in the Forbidden Zone, everyone believed she wouldn’t lie about such a small matter.

Besides, the Forbidden Zone had its methods. If they wanted to know if someone was lying, they would find a way.

Ye Lingxuan’s fingertips gently traced Mu Zhian’s face, the cool touch of her slender fingers sending shivers down his spine.

She whispered, “Right, let me give Brother Mu a hint.”

“Jade Empress Sister is already in the Forbidden Zone.”

Mu Zhian asked in surprise, “Yao Meng? Why is she in the Forbidden Zone?”

He hadn’t revealed his whereabouts… Could it be that Yao Meng sensed the mark on the Green Lotus Ring?

“She came to see Qian’er.”

Ye Lingxuan didn’t explain further, just caressed the young man’s face, her beautiful purple eyes seemingly filled with alluring charm.

“So—”

She stood on tiptoes, her rosy, alluring lips close to Mu Zhian’s ear, and whispered in the cool tone she usually used to command her subordinates, “Brother Mu, you wouldn’t want Jade Empress Sister to find out you’re being bullied, would you?”

Where did you learn that NTR-exclusive line…? Mu Zhian was stunned.

The next moment, the golden light of the Desolate Time Lock enveloped the entire bedchamber.

Time froze.

Ye Lingxuan led Mu Zhian to the soft couch, then sat down with her legs crossed, her delicate jade feet encased in pure white silk stockings, swinging her boots as she secretly observed the young man.

Mu Zhian had to admit, this young girl was becoming even more breathtakingly beautiful, her figure gradually maturing, yet still retaining a youthful innocence.

Her fair and slender calves were visible between her boots and skirt, their skin appearing like ice crystal under the candlelight.

“What’s wrong, Brother Mu?” Ye Lingxuan tilted her head and asked, feigning confusion.

Mu Zhian retracted his gaze: “Nothing.”

Sensing the young man’s gaze, a playful smile tugged at the corners of Ye Lingxuan’s lips.

Thanks to The Art of Managing Your Husband, she already knew Brother Mu’s XP.

Noticing the young girl’s playful gaze, Mu Zhian coughed lightly and said, “Speaking of which, just as you said earlier, I’m a prisoner, right? Is it really okay for you to openly take me out of prison like this?”

Ye Lingxuan pouted and said faintly, “Brother Mu couldn’t possibly be a criminal.”

“If you wanted to cause chaos in the Eastern Continent, joining the Demon Realm would be much easier than secretly giving someone a Curse Stone,” she said with a smile.

A Nascent Soul peak cultivator joining the Demon Realm wasn’t a big deal.

But Mu Zhian was different… Even ignoring his strength and Innate Celestial Furnace constitution, just his existence joining the Demon Realm would be enough to give the entire Eastern Continent a headache.

“And I couldn’t possibly leave Brother Mu to suffer in prison,” Ye Lingxuan added.

“Actually, I don’t really mind. Being in prison allows me to focus on cultivation, it’s quite nice,” Mu Zhian shrugged.

Ye Lingxuan glanced at the young man, “Isn’t it because Princess Yongning is in prison and can chat with you?”

Mu Zhian shook his head, “I’ve only met Princess Yongning a few times, we’re not close.”

“That’s only now, who knows about the future.”

Ye Lingxuan sighed softly, “But to rescue Brother Mu tonight, I had to endure a lot of pressure.”

If she hadn’t personally witnessed the Forbidden Army release Mu Zhian without a word, Mu Zhian might have actually believed her.

Ye Lingxuan continued, “So Brother Mu, you have to compensate me.”

“What kind of compensation do you want?” Mu Zhian asked.

Ye Lingxuan gracefully jumped down from the table, her hands behind her back, and walked to Mu Zhian’s front. Her pleasant voice, laced with charm, echoed through the bedchamber, “How about Brother Mu pleases Lingxuan until I’m satisfied~?”

…

Ye Qian, as usual, was meditating and cultivating in her room.

The people in the Forbidden Zone clearly knew her relationship with Ye Lingxuan, so they took good care of this young girl, sending her many pills during her cultivation.

After circulating her Spiritual Energy for a full cycle, Ye Qian opened her eyes, looked at the fairy in the green dress sitting on the bed in surprise, and said, “Master, why are you here?”

“I was bored at the Jade Pool Holy Land, so I came out for a change of scenery, and also to see how your cultivation is progressing.”

Yao Meng looked at her disciple with a smile.

Ye Qian thought for a moment, then asked doubtfully, “Did something happen to Brother Mu? But isn’t he in Yu State? Did Master go to Yu State and see Brother Mu with another woman… and feel upset?”

Seemingly noticing Yao Meng’s complex expression, Ye Qian immediately comforted her, “But Master, there’s no need to overthink it. You only sent Brother Mu to Yu State so he could learn to protect himself… It’s really not a big deal.”

I didn’t expect to be comforted by my disciple one day…

Yao Meng couldn’t help but smile, “I didn’t come to see you because of your Brother Mu. I’m planning to take you back to the Jade Pool Holy Land after your sister’s inheritance ceremony and let you receive the inheritance of the Heavenly Pill Phoenix Tree.”

Ye Qian was stunned: “But I’m not a Jade Pool disciple, wouldn’t that be against the rules…?”

She knew the Heavenly Pill Phoenix Tree was a symbol of the Jade Pool Holy Land. Almost every Jade Pool disciple would receive its inheritance… And how much they could obtain depended on their own talent.

“You are my disciple, after all, considered a member of the Jade Pool Holy Land, so there’s no need to worry.”

Just then, a deafening thunderclap suddenly came from the north of the Forbidden Zone. That place was far from the Forbidden Zone, but Yao Meng still sensed it immediately.

It was a Pill Tribulation.

“Has Luo Tan started refining the Nine Cauldrons Nascent Soul Pill?” Yao Meng murmured softly.

“The pill Brother Mu needs?” Ye Qian asked.

Yao Meng nodded with a smile, gently stroking Ye Qian’s head, her voice soft, “Focus on your cultivation first. If you have any questions, you can always ask me.”

“Is Master planning to go somewhere?”

A faint smile appeared in Yao Meng’s green eyes as she looked in a certain direction within the Forbidden Zone and said softly, “Mmm… Going out for a stroll.”

…

 

Chapter 516: This, My Friends, Is Called Walking Right Into a Trap 

Mu Zhian sat cross-legged in the prison cell, eyes closed, circulating his Spiritual Energy through his meridians, cycle after cycle.

Although he was now at the peak of Nascent Soul Realm, he had bypassed the usual cultivation process and reached the peak directly, so he still needed some time to consolidate his realm.

Princess Yongning and the others from the Great Qian Dynasty were held in separate cells not far from his.

Lin Keyu wasn’t among them. She had been properly settled within the Forbidden Zone by the Forbidden Army and would be escorted out after this incident was resolved.

After all, Xuanyin Temple was a power second only to the Forbidden Zone, the Jade Pool Holy Land, and the Two Polarities Sect. Although the Forbidden Zone was powerful, they wouldn’t offend a top power in the Eastern Continent without reason.

Compared to the worried or angry faces of the others in the Great Qian Dynasty’s team, Princess Yongning seemed quite calm. Her cell was also much cleaner, clearly because the Forbidden Army recognized her identity.

“We shouldn’t have let a stranger into our camp in the first place. We should have known, in a place like the Forbidden Zone, no one would give away an Aurora Crystal worth hundreds of thousands of spirit stones for no reason.”

Just then, an indignant voice came from a nearby cell.

“Mister Zhu Cheng was right, no one in the Forbidden Zone can be trusted. It doesn’t matter for us, but it’s tough on Her Highness, having to suffer with us.”

Whispers continued to spread through the prison.

Just then, Princess Yongning said softly, “Everyone, quiet down.”

Although her tone was gentle, for some reason, when the eldest princess spoke, the whispers quieted down considerably.

Princess Yongning said calmly, “Didn’t Ding Hou confirm that the Aurora Crystal in my jade box was fine? Why did the Forbidden Army suddenly discover it was a Curse Stone?”

“Mister Ding, you’re well-read, didn’t you notice anything at the time?” She looked at Ding Hou in the opposite cell and asked.

Ding Hou was stunned for a moment, then lowered his head and said, “Your Highness, although I’ve seen Aurora Crystals before, I didn’t know they had variants… I’ve heard of Curse Stones, but I’ve never seen one, so I didn’t recognize it…”

“Or rather, that person was too insidious and cunning, actually giving a Curse Stone as an Aurora Crystal, framing us!”

Not far away, seeing everyone’s indignant expressions after he spoke, Zhu Cheng’s eyes held a hint of satisfaction.

But soon, he noticed the eldest princess frowning in thought and couldn’t help asking, “Your Highness, what are you thinking about?”

Princess Yongning glanced at Mu Zhian, who was meditating with his eyes closed, and said calmly, “Nothing. Before the truth is revealed, let’s not suspect anyone.”

As she spoke, she couldn’t help but discreetly glance at the young man in the cell a few more times.

In Princess Yongning’s heart, she had already roughly guessed his identity. Lin Keyu’s attitude towards him, his words and actions, and even his aura… were all exactly the same as the person she knew.

Just then, Mu Zhian opened his eyes and transmitted his voice with a playful tone, “Your Highness has been staring at this one… Could it be you’re thinking about how to find me and get revenge for today’s framing after we leave this place?”

Princess Yongning looked at him with a faint smile and replied via voice transmission, “I believe you’re innocent.”

“How did the Forbidden Army find our location so accurately, and know exactly what was in my jade box? This alone is enough to prove this matter has little to do with you.”

“Perhaps I was colluding with them,” Mu Zhian couldn’t help but smile.

A faint smile appeared at the corner of Princess Yongning’s mouth, “With your status and identity, would you need to resort to such underhanded methods to get rid of someone, Young Master Mu?”

Mu Zhian was stunned, then felt a sense of frustration, “Is my disguise that bad?”

He realized that none of the women he knew were simple… Even this Princess Yongning, who rarely left the palace, recognized his identity so quickly.

“It’s not that your disguise is bad, it’s just that no one in this world can imitate Young Master Mu’s unique aura, so it’s easy to recognize you,” Princess Yongning chuckled softly.

“What aura?” Mu Zhian asked subconsciously.

“Peach blossom luck… or rather, the aura that attracts women,” Princess Yongning said.

Mu Zhian understood. The ‘aura’ that attracted women Princess Yongning mentioned probably referred to the Spiritual Energy emitted by the combination of the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox and the Innate Celestial Furnace…

Even if he deliberately restrained it, he would still subconsciously emit that kind of Spiritual Energy.

“Who do you suspect is behind this?” Seeing Mu Zhian’s silence, Princess Yongning couldn’t help asking again.

“Would you believe me if I said it was one of your attendants?” Mu Zhian asked.

“You mean… Ding Hou?”

Princess Yongning’s eyes flickered, and she murmured softly, “Why? He shouldn’t have such a motive…”

“He doesn’t have such a motive, but someone else in the imperial palace does,” Mu Zhian said with a smile.

Princess Yongning wasn’t foolish and naturally had a vague guess.

She frowned slightly, “The Crown Prince?”

“But I have no dealings with him, why would he…”

“Everyone in the Eastern Continent knows that the Great Qian Dynasty is about to have a change of emperors, but there are also rumors that the position of Crown Prince might change… Among the Great Qian Emperor’s children, only the Fourth Prince is somewhat intelligent.”

Mu Zhian paused, then continued, “People used to say that if Princess Yongning weren’t a woman, the position of Crown Prince would have been hers long ago.”

“But that’s just the perspective of the common folk. Actually, if Your Highness were to inherit the throne, few cultivators would object.”

Princess Yongning’s delicate brows furrowed slightly, and she transmitted her voice, “Are you mocking me, Young Master Mu? There has never been a female emperor in the history of the Eastern Continent dynasties.”

“Men can be emperors, why can’t women? Could it be that Your Highness thinks women are incapable? When will women truly stand up?” Mu Zhian feigned outrage.

Yongning: “…”

“Actually, only the Eastern Continent dynasties are like this. The Pill Emperor of Yu State, and even the Demon Empress of the Northern Continent, are both female rulers. Has anyone ever questioned them?” Mu Zhian quickly said seriously.

Seeing Yongning’s silence, Mu Zhian suddenly asked, “You personally came with the team this time, you also have thoughts about becoming the emperor, right?”

Princess Yongning said with a faint smile, “The Fourth Prince, Ning Ping, has several Nascent Soul Realm cultivators backing him, and the Crown Prince, needless to say, has the largest influence in the dynasty… Does Young Master Mu think that even a weak woman like me has any chance of competing with them for the throne?”

“If I were to inherit the throne, I’m afraid I would be harassed by many cultivators in a short time.”

“What if I become your backing?” Mu Zhian suddenly asked.

Princess Yongning was stunned, seemingly not expecting Mu Zhian to say such a thing.

“We’ve only met a few times, why would Young Master Mu be willing to help me?”

Mu Zhian said faintly, “The Great Qian Dynasty’s national fortune affects the entire Eastern Continent to a certain extent. The past emperors of the Great Qian Dynasty were incompetent, but no one dared to act against them. The main reason was because of the national fortune backing them. Attacking them would be met with the national fortune’s backlash. No one was willing to bear this for no reason, especially since doing so would also damage the Eastern Continent’s luck.”

“The current Crown Prince is better at petty schemes. He might be intelligent, but such a person is suitable to be an advisor, not a wise ruler.”

He paused, looked into Yongning’s eyes, and said seriously, “I’m hoping to help Your Highness for the sake of the people, I have no other ulterior motives.”

An unusual glint flickered in Princess Yongning’s beautiful eyes. After a long silence, she nodded politely, “I’ll consider what you said today, Young Master Mu.”

Just then, a discordant chuckle came from beside Mu Zhian’s ear, “I know you must be thinking about getting revenge on me after leaving this prison, right?”

Mu Zhian snapped back to reality and casually looked at the owner of the voice.

Ding Hou.

He was currently holding onto the prison bars, looking at Mu Zhian with a playful smile.

Although Mu Zhian and Princess Yongning had just communicated via voice transmission, their gazes met no less than ten times. Ding Hou, watching from the side, naturally guessed what happened.

It went without saying that this young man had probably complained to Her Highness.

But what this young man didn’t know was that even complaining was useless.

The Forbidden Army was on his side now, what could he possibly do to fight against him?

The reason Ding Hou spoke now was because he heard footsteps approaching from outside the cell.

Ding Hou had to admit, this young man’s mentality was truly good.

If he hadn’t made arrangements with the Forbidden Army Commander in advance, he would probably be panicking being locked up in this kind of place. Yet this young man seemed completely unfazed…

But that made sense. After being imprisoned in the Forbidden Zone, besides giving up hope, there was no other way to save oneself.

But he was different.

“Don’t worry, Your Highness, after I leave this place, I will find a way to rescue you,” Ding Hou transmitted his voice to Princess Yongning.

His purpose this time wasn’t entirely for Princess Yongning. The main goal was to eliminate those opposing the Crown Prince… Princess Yongning was just an added bonus.

Yongning raised a delicate eyebrow, took a deep look at Ding Hou, and remained silent.

Seeing this, Ding Hou couldn’t help but frown slightly.

It seemed that young man had badmouthed him when complaining to Her Highness just now.

But it didn’t matter, he wouldn’t be able to say anything soon.

The Aurora Crystal given to Yongning came from that young man, and he was the most suspicious. No one would suspect him, Ding Hou.

…Perhaps he could even use this opportunity to gain credit for rescuing Her Highness.

Ding Hou looked up at the towering figure of the Forbidden Army Commander, about to offer the explanation he had prepared.

However, he noticed that the Commander, after entering the prison, didn’t take another step forward, but stood respectfully with his head lowered.

“Is this Prison 3? It’s my first time in such a place.”

Just then, a young girl’s clear and pleasant voice echoed through the prison.

The young girl’s hair was styled in twintails, swaying gently with her steps, her bright and beautiful eyes curiously scanning her surroundings, a mischievous glint within.

Judging by the Forbidden Army Commander’s status, the only one who could make him bow so respectfully was someone from the upper echelons of the Forbidden Zone.

Ye Siyu!

Ding Hou almost blurted out the name, realizing instantly.

Ye Siyu was the younger sister of the current Forbidden Zone Lord. Before setting out for the Forbidden Zone, Ding Hou had done his research and naturally knew her influence within the Forbidden Zone.

But why was she here…?

Before Ding Hou could figure it out, Ye Siyu suddenly stopped, turned her head, and asked doubtfully, “Eh? Lingxuan, didn’t you say you weren’t interested in this kind of place?”

Almost the moment she spoke, the whispers in the prison instantly quieted down. The soldiers guarding the prison exchanged glances, surprise and excitement in their eyes.

Forbidden Army Commander Ye Xiuyuan almost blurted out, “Holy Maiden, why are you here?!”

At this moment, Ye Xiuyuan hadn’t realized the gravity of the situation, thinking the Holy Maiden, busy with the inheritance ceremony recently, simply wanted a change of scenery tonight.

Ye Lingxuan glanced at him and said calmly, “I suddenly became interested in this case, so I came to understand the situation. Don’t mind me, just carry on with your duties.”

As Ye Lingxuan spoke, she walked along the prison corridor.

Her Innate Spiritual Body instantly sensed a certain aura. Suppressing her excitement, she walked through the prison, finally stopping before a certain cell.

Then, she casually glanced over.

This glance made Ye Lingxuan’s gaze freeze, fixated on the young man in the cell.

Ye Xiuyuan followed closely behind Ye Lingxuan, his gaze meeting Ding Hou’s. He cupped his hands and said, “In reply to Holy Maiden, I’ve roughly understood the situation. This young cultivator beside you was the one scheming, finding a Curse Stone in the Forbidden Zone and giving it to Princess Yongning, intending to frame her… But we haven’t ruled out the possibility of accomplices, so further investigation is needed.”

Ye Lingxuan retracted her gaze and asked softly, “Is this confirmed?”

“Yes… The truth is practically confirmed, but the details still need to be investigated. In short, this boy is definitely involved.”

Ye Xiuyuan paused, lowered his head, and said respectfully, “Therefore, this subordinate will personally interrogate him. I believe the truth will be revealed soon.”

The young woman in the magnificent purple dress was stunned for a moment, turning to look at Ye Xiuyuan doubtfully.

“You’re saying he found a Curse Stone in the Forbidden Zone, framed someone else, and intended to cause chaos in the Eastern Continent?”

Ye Xiuyuan hesitated slightly. For some reason, he felt a sense of unease, but he had already said it and couldn’t take it back. He immediately said, “Precisely.”

Ye Lingxuan looked thoughtful, “In that case, I’ll personally interrogate him.”

“Holy Maiden, your status is too noble for such a task.”

Ye Xiuyuan was stunned and hurriedly said, “Besides—”

Before he could finish speaking, Ye Lingxuan turned to look at the Forbidden Army Commander, a cold glint in her eyes, “Starting tomorrow, have Junior Captain Ye Chiling of the Third Forbidden Army take over as Commander. After tonight, Ye Xiuyuan will be detained by the Chiling Army. Thoroughly investigate how many outside cultivators he colluded with during his tenure, and how many spirit stones he embezzled.”

Ye Xiuyuan’s expression changed drastically, but he dared not speak out and said in a low voice, “What did this subordinate do wrong? Please enlighten me, Holy Maiden!”

However, Ye Lingxuan ignored him. The Desolate Time Lock instantly cut through the chains on the cell door, and she left with the young man inside.

“Yongning is a princess of the Great Qian Dynasty after all, it’s not appropriate for her to stay in this kind of place,” Mu Zhian transmitted his voice.

Ye Lingxuan paused slightly and said calmly, “Settle Princess Yongning in a guest room in the Sky Supporting Palace and treat her well. After this matter is resolved, send her out of the Forbidden Zone.”

Ye Xiuyuan stared blankly as Ye Lingxuan and the young man behind her left. In just one night, he had gone from Forbidden Army Commander to prisoner. No matter what, this was hard to accept.

Ye Siyu narrowed her eyes, staring at the young man suspiciously for a few moments, then suddenly let out a knowing “heh”, “You didn’t investigate his background before imprisoning him?”

Forbidden Army commanders, more or less, would embezzle some spirit stones. As long as it didn’t affect the bigger picture, they would turn a blind eye.

But this Forbidden Army Commander just happened to hit the wrong target this time… He could only blame his bad luck.

“Background?”

Ye Xiuyuan stared blankly at the young man’s departing figure, confusion in his eyes.

Then, connecting Ye Lingxuan’s sudden arrival, her sudden change in attitude, and the way she looked at the young man just now… Putting everything together, Ye Xiuyuan was stunned, and subconsciously said, “Mu Zhian…?”

Indeed, besides him, who else could make the Forbidden Zone’s imperial daughter personally come and take someone away?

After all, anyone might cause chaos in the Eastern Continent, except for Mu Zhian.

Everyone in the Nine Provinces knew he had the Jade Empress backing him.

And all of this was ultimately Ding Hou’s fault.

At this moment, Ye Xiuyuan was filled with regret.

Not towards Mu Zhian, but towards Ding Hou. Before framing someone, he didn’t even investigate their background, dragging him down with him.

“What are you all standing around for? Do you need me to personally imprison him?” Ye Siyu glanced at the stunned Forbidden Army soldiers.

They immediately reacted, took out black shackles, and imprisoned the ashen-faced Ye Xiuyuan.

Tonight’s events quickly spread throughout the Forbidden Zone, the clan members discussing it everywhere.

To those below, this might be a huge shock, but to Ye Siyu, it seemed like just an ordinary matter.

Compared to this, she was more concerned about Ye Lingxuan.

She wondered how the future Forbidden Zone Empress planned to interrogate the ‘prisoner’.

Chapter 515: Can You Do That Thing Again? You Know, That Thing.

Night in the Forbidden Zone was always like this: seemingly calm and still on the surface, but powerful demonic creatures roamed beneath the dark.

Near the bonfire, the ten-member team discreetly observed the young man from the corner of their eyes.

He seemed to have come to the Forbidden Zone unprepared, simply taking out a golden talisman from his storage ring and placing it beside him, then closing his eyes to meditate and cultivate.

For some reason, Princess Yongning felt this young man was familiar. Although she couldn’t see his face clearly, she had an inexplicable sense of déjà vu.

Zhu Cheng, the protector, glanced at the young man by the bonfire and said, “He should be a disciple sent by some Ancient Family for training. Judging from his generous gift earlier, he must have some status within his clan.”

A young man named Ding Hou beside him asked softly, “Should we keep an eye on him?”

He noticed that this young man was extremely focused during his meditation. Normally, this would be a good thing, but in a place like the Forbidden Zone, being so focused on meditation and cultivation might not be wise… After all, without paying attention to the surroundings, one wouldn’t even know when they were ambushed by demonic creatures.

This was enough to prove that this young man was probably some rich kid who had never experienced any hardship.

Zhu Cheng shook his head, “Just keep a casual watch. I don’t think anything will happen tonight.”

Ding Hou still couldn’t help but look over a few more times, “His skin is even fairer than ours, he probably rarely leaves his family. Yet he came to such a dangerous place as the Forbidden Zone right after leaving his family. It feels a bit suspicious.”

As soon as these words were spoken, the others around the bonfire also couldn’t help but look at the young man in the distance a few more times.

As Ding Hou said, such a fair and delicate young man was rare, practically unseen even in the imperial palace.

Compared to this elegant young master, even they, the children of nobles in the imperial palace, seemed to pale in comparison.

Lin Keyu sat by the bonfire, hugging her knees, staring at him silently, as if her gaze was involuntarily drawn, unwilling to look away.

However, a hazy black mist always shrouded his figure, making it impossible to see his true appearance. Under the flickering light of the bonfire in the night, he seemed even more mysterious.

“Brother, what do you think he looks like?” a young girl in the team tugged gently at a man’s sleeve and whispered.

“Why do you care so much? Could he be more handsome than the son of Duke Qing, whom Father arranged for you before? You didn’t even like him, so forget about this one,” the young man said earnestly. “Besides, even if he’s a descendant of an Ancient Family, being sent to a place like the Forbidden Zone, his status within the clan can’t be that high.”

“I was just curious, I’m not really interested in him,” the young girl pouted disdainfully.

But her gaze was involuntarily drawn to the young man.

At the same time, a female cultivator, a guest elder of the Great Qian Dynasty, also looked over silently. She had always thought that men were all the same, no matter how handsome, but she couldn’t take her eyes off this young man.

The male cultivators present felt something was off. A young man who just arrived had somehow attracted the attention of several women?

“The black mist around him should be some rare secret technique. And it seems he doesn’t travel much, he seems to be carrying quite a few treasures…” Ding Hou suddenly whispered.

As the cold night wind blew, making the bonfire flicker, Zhu Cheng suddenly warned in a low voice, “No matter whether he’s from an Ancient Family or not, don’t target him, and don’t be greedy. In a place like the Forbidden Zone, remember there’s always someone stronger out there.”

There was one more thing Zhu Cheng didn’t say.

He couldn’t quite tell this young man’s realm.

At first, seeing how young he was, he thought the other party was simply concealing his realm with a secret technique.

But now, seeing him focus so quickly on meditation and cultivation, he suddenly couldn’t see through him.

After all, in such a dangerous place as the Forbidden Zone, being completely focused on meditation and cultivation meant one was either a fool or incredibly confident in their own strength.

Perhaps it wasn’t because of a secret technique, but because this young man’s realm was higher than his, making him unable to discern it.

Although this possibility was low, their mission this time was crucial, and they couldn’t take any risks.

Ding Hou nodded slightly, “Don’t worry, I know. Our mission this time is to find the elixir of immortality and safely escort Princess Yongning back to the imperial palace.”

As he spoke, he walked to the elegant eldest princess and said respectfully, “Your Highness, could I examine the Aurora Crystal that young man just gave you?”

Seemingly worried that Princess Yongning would misunderstand, he added, “Just to ensure Your Highness’s safety.”

Yongning smiled and nodded, her voice pleasant, “Then I’ll have to trouble you.”

Ding Hou took the jade box and turned the Aurora Crystal within over in his hands.

The Aurora Crystal was a translucent prism, with countless golden threads seemingly intertwined within, sparkling brightly in the night.

After examining it for a long time, Ding Hou placed the Aurora Crystal back in the jade box and said, “No problem, this is indeed an Aurora Crystal, and there are no tricks or traps.”

“Giving away such a rare treasure upon first meeting, this young man is truly generous,” he couldn’t help but sigh again.

“Eh? Miss Lin, do you know him? Why did you take the initiative to talk to him?”

Just then, someone hesitated and couldn’t help but ask.

After all, this Holy Maiden from Xuanyin Temple rarely interacted with others along the way. In everyone’s impression, she was quite a shy and proud girl, but they didn’t expect her to take the initiative to talk to a young man venturing alone in the Forbidden Zone.

Princess Yongning looked at this scene and said calmly, “Don’t discuss things you shouldn’t.”

Lin Keyu walked slowly towards Mu Zhian, took out a jade bottle from her storage ring, and handed it to him, “Even if you follow the rules in the Forbidden Zone, you’ll still be slightly affected by the curses. Take this pill when you’re feeling unwell, it will purify the curses on your body.”

Mu Zhian slowly opened his eyes, glanced at the young girl, and said with a smile, “I won’t be staying in the Forbidden Zone for long, you should keep this pill, Miss.”

Lin Keyu looked at the young man from up close. Although he deliberately lowered his voice, she immediately recognized him and said, “Then forget it if you don’t need it. May I know how to address you, Young Master?”

Mu Zhian said, “Niu Shi (牛矢 – literally ‘cow dung’).”

Lin Keyu couldn’t help but giggle, glancing at the young man, and transmitted her voice with a chuckle, “Young Master Mu, how long are you going to keep up this act?”

Niu Shi… Did he just take apart his name (Mu Zhian – 牧知安) and use it as an alias?

---

 Mu Zhian (牧知安) → Niu Shi (牛矢)

• 牧 (Mù) means “to herd” or “shepherd,” but the character contains 牛 (niú – cow) as its radical (component).

• 知安 (Zhī-ān) is split phonetically/playfully:

  • 矢 (shǐ) means “arrow,” but it’s homophonous with 屎 (shǐ – feces/dung) in colloquial contexts.

  • Thus, Niu Shi (牛矢) literally reads as “cow arrow,” but implies “cow dung” (牛屎) due to the sound association.

 

The young girl stared at him intently from beginning to end, her already frail appearance, paired with her gentle eyes, making one’s heart ache with pity.

“Why are you in the Forbidden Zone?” Mu Zhian transmitted his voice, asking helplessly.

He had clearly concealed his aura and even his face with Southern Wilderness secret techniques, yet Lin Keyu still recognized him immediately.

His acting skills should be at the level of a Best Actor, how could this girl be so perceptive…? Mu Zhian thought to himself.

“When the Holy Maiden of Xuanyin Temple comes of age, she receives a mission. Only after completing the mission can she officially inherit the position of Holy Maiden,” Lin Keyu transmitted her voice.

“And my mission this time is in the Forbidden Zone.”

A look of realization appeared on Mu Zhian’s face, and he asked via voice transmission, “Then have you completed your mission?”

Lin Keyu nodded with a smile: “Yes, I originally wanted to leave, but I ran into the Great Qian Dynasty’s team on the way. I met Princess Yongning a few times during the Ascension Tournament, so I’m traveling with them.”

“I see…” Mu Zhian looked thoughtful.

“Why is Young Master Mu deliberately concealing your identity? Are you hiding from me?” A hint of unease appeared in Lin Keyu’s soft voice as she peered at Mu Zhian’s expression.

But because of the black mist, she couldn’t see his face clearly.

“My concealing my identity has nothing to do with you, Miss Lin,” Mu Zhian shook his head and transmitted his voice, “I just want to see what the Great Qian Dynasty is up to.”

“By the way, Miss Lin, do you know why Princess Yongning is here?”

Lin Keyu thought for a moment and replied, “According to them, the Crown Prince framed other factions, wanting to eliminate any future threats and smoothly ascend the throne after the Great Qian Emperor’s death.”

“As for Princess Yongning… she couldn’t bear to see these court officials die, so she came with them. I tested her yesterday. Princess Yongning seems like an ordinary person to outsiders, but Spiritual Energy flows within her body. She’s at least at Core Formation Realm.”

Mu Zhian pondered for a while, then suddenly chuckled softly.

Thanks to Lin Keyu, some of the questions that had been bothering him became clearer.

“Young Master Mu, what are you laughing about?” Lin Keyu asked.

Mu Zhian shook his head, took out a Nourishing Spirit Pill from his storage ring and swallowed it, sat down beside a large rock, and said softly, “You’ll find out soon enough.”

Lin Keyu looked at Mu Zhian, somewhat puzzled.

She was about to speak when a whooshing sound suddenly came from the distance, accompanied by a surge of immense Spiritual Energy.

The Spiritual Energy was incredibly astonishing, making their hearts palpitate even from such a distance.

“There are cultivators coming this way, everyone be careful!” Zhu Cheng reacted and shouted loudly.

As soon as his voice fell, several black-robed cultivators in the distance transformed into streaks of light, surrounding the group by the bonfire.

Zhu Cheng’s expression changed slightly, and he immediately warned everyone, “They’re from the Forbidden Zone, don’t provoke them, let’s see what they’re planning.”

Hearing this, everyone suppressed their urge to flee.

Lin Keyu said in a low voice, “Stay close to me, Young Master Mu, they won’t harm you.”

Mu Zhian subconsciously glanced at Lin Keyu and hummed softly in agreement.

There were nearly thirty Forbidden Zone guards who appeared before them. Among them, Mu Zhian sensed more than six at Nascent Soul Realm, while the other cultivators held pitch-black chains, emitting a bone-chilling coldness.

Mu Zhian could sense that the chains seemed to have the effect of sealing Spiritual Energy.

This should be the ‘Forbidden Army’ Lingxuan mentioned before… Mu Zhian recalled what Ye Lingxuan had told him about the Forbidden Zone.

‘Forbidden Army’, this name was also quite famous among outside cultivators, as this army had killed countless and was one of the Forbidden Zone’s most powerful forces.

From the past until now, many cultivators had ventured into the Forbidden Zone to ‘strike gold’, and the Forbidden Zone usually ignored most of them.

But those who violated the Forbidden Zone’s rules… might be hunted down by the ‘Forbidden Army’.

The Forbidden Army’s visit late at night this time was probably not a good sign.

Zhu Cheng looked at the Vice-Commander of the Forbidden Army, cupped his hands, and said calmly, “May I know the reason for your visit tonight, Commander?”

The Vice-Commander said coldly, “We received news not long ago that someone violated the ‘rules’ in the southern part of the Forbidden Zone, so we were ordered to investigate.”

Zhu Cheng was stunned, “Is there some misunderstanding? We’ve been following the Forbidden Zone’s rules along the way with Her Highness, we haven’t violated any… Besides, if we really violated the rules, we would have been killed by the Forbidden Zone long ago, and you wouldn’t be here, right?”

The Vice-Commander didn’t look at Zhu Cheng again, but walked directly to Princess Yongning, raised his hand and made a grabbing motion. The jade box was instantly sucked into his hand.

After glancing at the item inside, the Vice-Commander sneered, “These people are all suspicious, take them away!”

“We’re from the Great Qian Dynasty! You have to tell us what crime we committed!” Ding Hou, held by two cultivators, looked up and glared at the Vice-Commander, his eyes filled with anger.

The Vice-Commander raised the Aurora Crystal in his hand and snorted coldly, “These Aurora Crystals are naturally formed, and they are divided into two types. One is untainted by curses, and the other, although appearing like an Aurora Crystal on the surface, is actually a Curse Stone.”

“Taking this Curse Stone out of the Forbidden Zone might endanger the lives of tens of thousands of beings in the Eastern Continent. I suspect you’re spies sent by the Demon Realm to cause chaos in the Eastern Continent. We’re taking you back for interrogation, understand?”

Aurora Crystal… ?

Ding Hou subconsciously looked at Mu Zhian, “You were the one who gave this Aurora Crystal to Her Highness! You… you framed us?!”

Instantly, everyone’s gaze fell on Mu Zhian, their eyes filled with surprise, anger, or disbelief.

“If the Aurora Crystal I gave was really a Curse Stone, I would have sensed it,” Mu Zhian replied calmly.

Although his Innate Spiritual Body was a pseudo-constitution, how could it not be able to distinguish between a Curse Stone and an Aurora Crystal?

The Vice-Commander glanced at Mu Zhian, then his gaze fell on Lin Keyu, his tone softening slightly, “You are the Holy Maiden of Xuanyin Temple, right? This matter has nothing to do with you. We will personally escort you out of the Forbidden Zone later.”

Lin Keyu looked at Mu Zhian and said, “He’s my friend, and also a cultivator from the Eastern Continent, he has no connection to the Demon Realm.”

The Vice-Commander glanced at Mu Zhian discreetly, then at Ding Hou, and said with a smile, “Xuanyin Temple is an ally of the Forbidden Zone, so we trust the Holy Maiden, but as for the Holy Maiden’s friend… Please forgive our rudeness, we will investigate this matter thoroughly and clear his name.”

“Take them away!”

The Vice-Commander waved his hand, and the Forbidden Zone guards behind him stepped forward, placing shackles on everyone’s hands.

Mu Zhian extended his hands, letting them be shackled, but deliberately slowed his pace, glanced at Ding Hou, who was at the back of the group, and another cultivator beside him, and transmitted his voice, “You’re the one behind this, aren’t you?”

Ding Hou frowned, “You framed us, and now you want to shift the blame to me?”

“The Aurora Crystal I gave Princess Yongning was found in the Forbidden Zone. If it really had a curse, I would have sensed it. You must have switched it, right? If I weren’t here on this trip, you would have found another way to give the Curse Stone to Princess Yongning, correct?”

Ding Hou was silent for a long time, a smug smile appearing at the corner of his mouth. He transmitted his voice, “You’re right. I secretly switched the Aurora Crystal you gave.”

“But you can only blame your bad luck for following the Princess. So, just take this secret to your grave.”

Even if the other party knew, so what? So many people saw Mu Zhian give the Aurora Crystal to Princess Yongning, he couldn’t argue his way out of it.

He had been thinking about how to place the Curse Stone in the Princess’s storage ring without being noticed, and this young man’s appearance solved his problem.

Therefore, it could only be said that the other party was simply unlucky.

“Let me guess who instructed you to do this.”

Mu Zhian thought for a moment and asked, “Are you from the Crown Prince’s faction? But why target a princess? Could it be that the Crown Prince is worried that his position will be threatened by the eldest princess?”

Ding Hou didn’t speak, a cold glint flashing through his eyes.

“You’re even willing to throw your life away for the Crown Prince’s mission? Captured by the Forbidden Zone, you probably won’t be leaving anytime soon,” Mu Zhian continued.

Ding Hou said faintly, “That’s none of your concern.”

“Compared to me, you should worry about yourself.”

“Thanks to you, I was still wondering how to give the Curse Stone to Her Highness without being suspected, and you came along and helped me,” Ding Hou revealed a smile.

Mu Zhian looked at him calmly, no longer speaking.

…

The Forbidden Zone was divided into eighteen areas, each governed by a different ‘Forbidden Army’.

At this moment, Ye Xiuyuan, Commander of the Forbidden Army in Area 3, was looking down at a document when he suddenly heard a spy’s voice from outside: “Sir, as planned, we have captured Princess Yongning and the others.”

“However, the Holy Maiden of Xuanyin Temple was also with them. I’ve temporarily settled her in Area 3.”

Ye Xiuyuan nodded with satisfaction, “You’ve done well, you may leave. I’ll handle the rest.”

He took out a storage pouch from his storage ring and tossed it to the spy: “Take this and reward the brothers involved in this operation. Consider it an extra bonus.”

The spy respectfully took the storage pouch, replied with a “Yes, sir”, and left.

Then, he immediately instructed, “Make the preparations, I’m personally interrogating these people who intend to cause chaos in the Eastern Continent tonight.”

“Tonight?” a subordinate beside him hesitated.

“We’ve been paid, we have to get this done efficiently,” Ye Xiuyuan said faintly.

Thirty million spirit stones, this was the reward from the Great Qian Dynasty.

To a behemoth like the Forbidden Zone, thirty million spirit stones wasn’t much, but to a small commander of the Forbidden Army, it was an irresistible sum.

Therefore, upon receiving the deal, Ye Xiuyuan readily accepted.

After all, with the Forbidden Zone’s power, even if the Great Qian Dynasty found out about this afterward, they couldn’t possibly come seeking retribution.

These thirty million spirit stones were practically a free gift.

After making the necessary preparations, Ye Xiuyuan immediately left with his men, heading towards the prison in Area 3.

Just then, two bright and captivating figures flashed past his eyes.

“Madam Ye Siyu (叶思语 – likely Ye Lingxuan’s mother or a similar figure), Holy Maiden.”

Ye Xiuyuan immediately reacted, stopped, and cupped his hands in greeting.

Ye Siyu held Ye Lingxuan’s arm, her beautiful peach blossom eyes sizing up this large man, and said with a smile, “Commander, are you going out so late?”

Ye Xiuyuan replied respectfully, “Yes, Madam. We captured a few cultivators near the Forbidden Zone today who intended to use Curse Stones to cause chaos in the Eastern Continent. This subordinate is planning to personally interrogate them.”

“The last time someone tried to use Curse Stones was two hundred years ago, right? There are still people who aren’t afraid of death, coming to the Forbidden Zone for such things?”

Ye Siyu blinked her beautiful eyes and said, “How about I go with you, Commander? I want to see who’s so bold.”

“This…”

Ye Xiuyuan hesitated, then lowered his head, “Yes, Madam, I’ll lead the way.”

Everyone in the Forbidden Zone knew Ye Siyu was clever and witty. If he refused her, she might go there herself… which would cause more variables.

Ye Siyu looked at Ye Lingxuan and asked, “Do you want to come with me? Just for a change of scenery.”

It had to be said, up close, this Forbidden Zone Holy Maiden’s beauty was truly breathtaking, and her complex and magnificent purple dress added a touch of classical beauty.

That pure and classical young girl from the past was now gradually blossoming into a stunning beauty.

“You go ahead, the recent inheritance ceremony has been quite tiring, I want to go back and rest,” Ye Lingxuan said faintly.

She paused, then continued, “And I’m not interested in villains who want to cause chaos in the Eastern Continent.”

Ye Siyu pouted, “How boring, then I’ll go by myself.”

She turned and walked towards Prison 3 with light steps.

Ye Xiuyuan came back to his senses, respectfully bowed to Ye Lingxuan, then lowered his head and led the way.

After the two left, Ye Lingxuan raised her right hand. A golden chain quietly extended from her sleeve, along her snow-white wrist.

She was about to sit on the mount created by the Desolate Time Lock and leave, but as if recalling something, she suddenly asked, “Let me see what Mu Zhian is doing now.”

The Desolate Time Lock immediately transformed into a picture scroll floating in mid-air.

Actually, Ye Lingxuan didn’t like spying on other people’s private lives… And with the Forbidden Zone’s inheritance ceremony approaching, even if she saw the scene, it wouldn’t be of much use. After all, she could only look but not touch, which would only make her feel more lonely.

Especially the thought of her beloved Brother Mu being intimate with another woman… It would make her feel jealous and helpless.

I wonder which vixen Brother Mu is with this time…

Ye Lingxuan sighed softly and casually glanced at the picture scroll displayed by the Desolate Time Lock.

The scroll showed a dim scene. Ye Lingxuan narrowed her eyes, staring for a long time, a hint of doubt appearing in her heart.

This is… a prison?

Was Brother Mu locked up in the little black room by Yao Meng or someone else?

Just then, Ye Lingxuan’s train of thought suddenly stopped, and she stared at the prison displayed in the scroll doubtfully.

This place… why does it look so familiar?

Chapter 514: A Single Encounter with the Jade Empress, A Lifetime of Mistakes 

Two Polarities Peak.

Lan Mulian approached the courtyard and respectfully addressed the woman sitting beneath the pavilion, playing Go against herself to pass the time.

“Has he left?” Shang Yanfei asked softly, without looking up.

Lan Mulian hummed in affirmation. “Junior Brother learned that Senior Spirit Dragon wishes to transcend and might need the Flower of the Great Dao, so he’s already gone to the Forbidden Zone with the Princess of Cloud Province.”

“Many are still unaware of the rules of the Eastern Continent’s Forbidden Land. For the Princess to willingly take your Junior Brother to the Forbidden Zone without knowing the rules, it seems she has deep feelings for him.”

Shang Yanfei paused her hand, a gentle smile gracing her lips. “But knowing your Junior Brother, he probably won’t let her enter the Forbidden Zone with him.”

“The Forbidden Land is unlike any other place. Even Dao Integration Realm experts risk falling there. After all, those are rules set by the Heavenly Dao itself.”

The path of cultivation was one of defying the heavens, but even at its peak, one was still human.

And humans should hold reverence for the heavens.

Lan Mulian opened her red lips slightly, a hesitant look on her face, as if wanting to say something.

“Do you want to ask why I’m not letting you leave Two Polarities Peak, not letting you accompany your Junior Brother to the Forbidden Zone?” Shang Yanfei asked.

A flicker of unease crossed Lan Mulian’s cool, beautiful eyes. “I just feel that he’s a disciple of the Two Polarities Sect, after all, and he’s helped me a lot in the past. This is my chance to repay him…”

“He’s already at the peak of Nascent Soul Realm. Although he still needs some time to stabilize and adapt to this realm, with his current strength, there’s no need to worry about sneak attacks or anything.”

Shang Yanfei paused, then looked at Lan Mulian with a smile, “You’ve almost completely comprehended the inheritance Lan Shihuai left you, haven’t you?”

A surprised look appeared on Lan Mulian’s face, seemingly not expecting her Master to know this without even leaving her peak.

Even the Lan Clan members, and even the Lan Clan Leader, didn’t know that Lan Shihuai had completely passed on her inheritance to her.

“With your talent, and the mark Lan Shihuai left within your body, reaching Soul Transformation after five cycles of Nascent Soul is only a matter of time. But you seem a bit lost these days, is there something troubling you?” Shang Yanfei asked.

Lan Mulian hesitated, then said, “The Heavenly Dao is currently ailing, but most cultivators in the Nine Provinces choose the Heavenly Dao for their Dao Comprehension… This disciple is wondering, even after five cycles of Nascent Soul, what should I choose for Soul Transformation?”

“You don’t need to choose anything,” Shang Yanfei said calmly.

Lan Mulian looked at Shang Yanfei in surprise, “Master, what do you mean?”

Shang Yanfei looked at Lan Mulian and said with a smile, “Who told you that you have to choose one of the three Daos of Heaven, Earth, and Human to comprehend the Dao?”

…

Eastern Continent, Forbidden Zone.

This was the Forbidden Land of the Eastern Continent, where the rules of heaven and earth were completely different from the outside world. Most cultivators who rashly entered died from curses.

But if one knew the rules of the Forbidden Zone, it wasn’t impossible to find some heavenly materials and earthly treasures, or even rare magical beasts, and leave alive.

Most of the heavenly materials and earthly treasures in the Forbidden Zone weren’t found in the outside world, so they could often fetch very high prices at auction houses.

And such prices were enough to save ordinary cultivators twenty or thirty years of hard work.

Therefore, there were always some cultivators who, for the sake of ‘striking gold’, risked entering the Forbidden Zone to capture rare magical beasts or find some treasures.

Now, with the great change in the rules of heaven and earth, and the arrival of the golden age, the Soul Transformation Realm was no longer an insurmountable height.

The resources needed to reach Soul Transformation Realm far exceeded people’s imagination. Some rogue cultivators, without the backing of powerful families, could only place their hopes on dangerous places like the Forbidden Zone.

And those with powerful families backing them usually wouldn’t risk entering the Forbidden Land.

After all, they could use the resources provided by their families to brute-force their way to Soul Transformation Realm.

In an era without Transcendence or widespread Dao Integration, Soul Transformation Realm sages were the most powerful cultivators.

The Princess tore open a spatial rift and brought Mu Zhian into the outer area of the Forbidden Zone.

Looking ahead, they could vaguely see a lush green meadow within the Forbidden Zone, towering ancient trees rising from the ground, their branches and leaves emerald green, emitting a faint rosy light, and fiery red flowers swaying in the wind, seductive and alluring.

The vegetation here seemed beautiful, but who knew how many cultivators’ bones lay buried beneath.

“Your Highness, this is far enough. I can walk the rest of the way myself,” Mu Zhian stopped and said softly, looking at the beautiful woman beside him.

The Princess frowned slightly, “Let me escort you inside. The Forbidden Zone does have rules against cultivators above Soul Transformation Realm entering, but if I’m willing, I can temporarily ignore these rules.”

Mu Zhian slowly shook his head, “No need, there’s no need for you to risk entering with me… My strength is within the rules, I won’t be in danger within the Forbidden Zone.”

“Besides, you’ve been out for so long, the Great Peng Emperor might be worried,” Mu Zhian continued.

The Princess rolled her eyes at the young man and said faintly, “If he was worried about me, he wouldn’t be hoping I would leave Cloud Province for a few days so he could regain control.”

Hearing this, Mu Zhian seemed to realize something and said, “You don’t care about power in Cloud Province at all?”

“As long as Cloud Province remains stable and peaceful, it doesn’t matter who holds power,” the Princess shook her head gently.

“Then have you ever thought about what the Great Peng Emperor will do after gaining control of Cloud Province?” Mu Zhian asked.

The Princess’s eyes flickered, seemingly recalling some past events.

In the past, for the sake of Immortal Medicine, the Great Peng Emperor sent many teams to their deaths to explore the detailed rules of the Forbidden Land of Life, thus losing many of Cloud Province’s pillars…

Now that the Great Peng Emperor had obtained Immortal Medicine, would he send people to their deaths again to explore all the rules of the Forbidden Land of Life?

Seeing the Princess lost in thought, Mu Zhian couldn’t help but look at her.

It had to be said, this woman was truly beautiful. She was currently wearing a veil again, her light silver-white dress outlining her mature and alluring figure, like a ripe peach.

Beneath her skirt, a pair of thin, holy white stockings covered her long, voluptuous, and snow-white legs, and she wore embroidered flat shoes, beautiful and captivating.

Mu Zhian used to think he liked girls his own age, then he thought ‘junior sisters’ were nice, then a single encounter with the Jade Empress led to a lifetime of mistakes… He changed his preference to older women.

But now, he also found this mature and alluring married woman quite appealing…

Although people often said they liked black silk, white silk, milfs, lolis, and had various other fetishes like foot control, face control, and leg control, in the end, they were all just horndogs.

Mu Zhian couldn’t resist reaching out and lifting the Princess’s veil, revealing a round, beautiful, charming, and mature face.

The Princess snapped out of her thoughts, saw Mu Zhian’s intense gaze, seemed to know what he was thinking, and rolled her eyes at him, “Why are you always thinking about doing bad things?”

“It’s not that I’m always thinking about doing bad things, it’s just that seeing Your Highness makes me unable to resist,” Mu Zhian held the Princess’s hand and said softly.

A blush quickly spread across the Princess’s face.

“What were you just thinking about?” Mu Zhian asked curiously.

The Princess said softly, “I think you’re right. It was indeed me being too easygoing in the past. The Great Peng Emperor is wholeheartedly focused on cultivation, completely disregarding the lives of Cloud Province… If I were in control, perhaps it would be better for Cloud Province.”

Mu Zhian didn’t say anything more.

He only offered his thoughts, but the final decision was up to the Princess.

“And also, if I were in control of Cloud Province, it would be much more pleasant spending time with you in the future,” the Princess suddenly added.

Mu Zhian hesitated, “What does that have to do with me?”

The Princess suddenly stood on tiptoes, bringing her sexy, rosy lips close to Mu Zhian’s, but didn’t kiss him. She just glanced at him seductively and whispered, “If I’m in control, then when we have our secret rendezvous in the palace, we won’t have to worry about being discovered, right?”

“We can do whatever we like in the imperial gardens, the pavilions, even in the place where I review memorials…”

The Princess’s sweet fragrance filled Mu Zhian’s senses, intoxicating him.

“Wouldn’t that be very pleasant?” she asked softly.

Mu Zhian gazed at her seductive eyes, her playful expression, and almost couldn’t resist suppressing her right there and then.

But ultimately, he restrained himself.

This was, after all, outside… He didn’t want to do anything strange with the Princess in public yet.

Most importantly, what if they ran into Sister Lingxuan near the edge of the Forbidden Zone…?

Then Mu Zhian might never leave the Forbidden Zone after entering…

The little girl already had some yandere tendencies. If she saw something she shouldn’t, she might just use the Desolate Time Lock and throw Mu Zhian into the basement.

Hiss… Thinking about it, this trip to the Forbidden Zone seems quite dangerous?

Mu Zhian thought.

“What are you spacing out about?” the Princess’s gentle voice sounded.

Mu Zhian came back to his senses. Looking at the woman’s charming and alluring face, and remembering her identity as the Great Peng Emperor’s wife, his heart stirred. He lowered his head, gently kissed the Princess’s sexy red lips, and said softly, “Nothing.”

“Wait for me, Your Highness.”

The Princess finally agreed to Mu Zhian’s persuasion and temporarily left the Forbidden Zone.

Just as Mu Zhian said, the Forbidden Zone was too dangerous. Before reaching Transcendence, entering such a place risked death, there was no need to take that risk.

And Mu Zhian was also worried that if Ye Lingxuan saw the Princess… it would be difficult to explain.

As the Princess said, it was more enjoyable for them to keep their relationship a secret.

…

The Eastern Continent’s Forbidden Zone was vast, beyond imagination.

Before the rules of heaven and earth changed, a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator entered and ended up lost for three whole days. On the fourth night, he happened to receive guidance from an expert within the Forbidden Zone and narrowly escaped danger.

Since then, various legends about the Forbidden Zone had circulated in the Eastern Continent.

Last time Mu Zhian came, Ye Lingxuan was with him, so they could quickly find the core area of the Forbidden Zone.

But this time, traveling alone, he could only rely on his memory to find the path to the depths of the Forbidden Zone.

If he could travel through the void, Mu Zhian felt he could find the path, but he couldn’t do that.

One of the Forbidden Zone’s rules: Void travel forbidden.

This rule was probably established to prevent those with ill intentions from directly entering the depths of the Forbidden Zone using void travel.

Along the way, Mu Zhian found four Aurora Crystals. In the outside world, a single Aurora Crystal the size of a fingernail could be exchanged for at least five hundred thousand spirit stones.

No wonder so many cultivators risked exploring the Forbidden Zone despite its dangers. The temptation was too great.

Just finding a single Aurora Crystal in the Forbidden Zone was enough for a carefree life for the next twenty years.

But Mu Zhian felt something was strange. Logically, with the Aurora Crystals lying in such a conspicuous place, why hadn’t they been picked up after so long?

Night fell unknowingly.

More than three hundred kilometers south of the Forbidden Zone, a group of people sat around a bonfire, chatting and laughing. The occasional crackling sound of sparks lit up the cold night.

A pot hung over the bonfire, filled with simmering fish soup.

The night wind in the Forbidden Zone was strong, but mysterious golden talismans shielded both sides of the bonfire, protecting the small campsite from the cold wind.

A woman in a pale gold dress sat by the bonfire, hugging her knees. Her long hair was tied up with a black and gold hairpin, her snow-white legs faintly visible beneath her skirt. She watched the orange-red flames flicker in the night, seemingly deep in thought.

“Your Highness, we’ve been flying along the edge of the Forbidden Zone on our swords for nearly three hundred kilometers, but we still can’t see the end… Perhaps the elixir of immortality His Majesty mentioned is just a rumor. If we still can’t find it in two days, let’s return to the palace,” an elderly man with a white beard said softly beside her.

The old man’s name was Zhu Cheng. He was sent to the Forbidden Zone to search for the elixir of immortality under the decree of the Great Qian Dynasty’s old emperor.

Besides two who were children of court officials, the rest of the people around the bonfire were guest elders and attendants of the dynasty, sixteen people in total, including Princess Yongning.

Along the way, six had died, including two Nascent Soul Realm guest elders who were the main force of the team.

They were all unaware of the Forbidden Zone’s rules and died mysteriously from curses.

“Mister Zhu Cheng has always taken care of me since I was young. In Yongning’s heart, you’ve always been like family. Although this is Father’s decree, the Crown Prince also doesn’t want you to remain in the palace, so he secretly pulled some strings. No matter what, I can’t let you and the others go alone.”

Even in the wilderness, Princess Yongning’s demeanor remained elegant. She said seriously, “If we can’t find the elixir of immortality, and Father blames us, I will plead for you all, so just do your best.”

“Your Highness…”

At this moment, many in the team looked at the eldest princess with gratitude.

After Imperial Advisor Gu Buxing’s downfall, the old emperor’s health had been declining day by day. Everyone knew that the Great Qian Dynasty was nearing a change of emperors.

Although the Crown Prince had been chosen, rumors spread that the old emperor was reconsidering his choice. These people being sent to search for the elixir of immortality was actually a power struggle within the imperial palace.

Some of them supported the Second Prince, others the Fourth Prince. This time, they were secretly set up by the Crown Prince’s faction and sent to this dangerous Forbidden Zone.

Even if they managed to leave the Forbidden Zone alive, without finding the elixir of immortality, they would still be punished.

But with the eldest princess here… the punishment would be lessened.

A frail young girl beside Yongning said, “There are actually many heavenly materials and earthly treasures within the Forbidden Zone. They might not grant immortality, but they can extend one’s lifespan.”

“Just finding any one of them is enough to return to the palace.”

Princess Yongning thought for a moment, then chuckled softly, “Miss Lin, you seem so frail, but you’re quite resourceful. If the Crown Prince knew Father could live for another twenty or thirty years, he would probably despair.”

In this cultivation world, some nobles in the imperial palace cultivated to extend their lifespans, more or less. The Crown Prince was currently thirty-six years old. In another twenty or thirty years…tsk tsk, whether he could ascend the throne was still a question.

Hearing this, Zhu Cheng couldn’t help but sigh, “It’s fortunate to have Miss Lin with us on this trip, otherwise, who knows how many more of us would have died.”

This frail young girl was Lin Keyu, the Holy Maiden who returned to Xuanyin Temple after the Ascension Tournament.

They encountered this Holy Maiden on their way. According to her, Xuanyin Temple had always had some cooperation with the Forbidden Zone, so she knew some of its rules.

She also entered the Forbidden Zone this time for training and to search for something.

Lin Keyu smiled charmingly and said softly, “It was just a small effort, there’s no need to thank me.”

After saying that, she looked at the bonfire, her thoughts seemingly drifting far away in the night.

Princess Yongning looked at Lin Keyu. The young girl’s face was as fair and flawless as ice crystal, one hand hugging her knees, the other supporting her cheek, as if deep in thought.

“Miss Lin seems to be lost in thought often along the way. Could it be that you’re thinking of your sweetheart?” Princess Yongning suddenly asked with a smile.

Lin Keyu snapped out of it and quickly shook her head: “I don’t have a sweetheart.”

Princess Yongning smiled without speaking.

Lin Keyu had unintentionally mentioned Mu Zhian several times along the way. With the eldest princess’s intelligence, she naturally noticed something.

“Careful, someone’s coming.”

Just then, Zhu Cheng suddenly said in a low voice. He heard footsteps approaching from the distance.

Everyone reacted quickly, immediately hiding behind the towering ancient trees and concealing their auras.

At the same time, his spiritual sense instantly locked onto the newcomer.

Lin Keyu also looked over. She was calmer than everyone else. Her Xuanyin Body made her physically frail since childhood, but this constitution also made her unrivaled among her peers. As long as the person appearing before her wasn’t at Soul Transformation Realm, she was confident in escaping.

“Sorry everyone, I don’t mean to intrude, I’m just passing through.”

A figure slowly walked out from the shadows in the distance. The young man wore a raven-black robe, a black mist seemingly swirling around him, making it difficult to see his form clearly.

That was a Southern Wilderness secret technique.

He glanced at everyone and said with a smile, “It’s not easy to find a safe campsite in the Forbidden Zone at night, mind if I share this place?”

As he spoke, he took out a jade box from his storage ring and tossed it to Princess Yongning: “If it’s inconvenient, then forget it. A small token of goodwill as a greeting gift, please accept it.”

The person who appeared here was naturally Mu Zhian. He sensed Lin Keyu and Princess Yongning’s auras when he approached. The reason he didn’t reveal himself immediately was that he sensed something unusual about this group.

The eldest princess of the Great Qian Dynasty appearing in such a dangerous place as the Forbidden Zone was strange in itself.

And his Innate Spiritual Body sensed a faint killing intent from two people in this group. It was best to observe the situation for now.

Yongning looked at Mu Zhian doubtfully and opened the jade box.

Zhu Cheng’s face immediately showed a look of surprise: “An Aurora Crystal?!”

He knew the value of Aurora Crystals. He didn’t expect this young man to be so generous, giving such a valuable item to someone he just met.

Zhu Cheng quickly calmed down, pointed at a vacant area some distance away, and said, “If Young Friend doesn’t mind, you can rest there. We’ll be responsible for your safety tonight. You can stay if there’s no problem.”

He could sense the other party’s strength was only average, so it didn’t matter if this young man stayed here for the night.

“Thank you, Senior.”

Mu Zhian cupped his hands, then went to the vacant area to rest alone.

Meanwhile, Princess Yongning looked at the young man’s back, then at the jade box in her hand, and said softly, “This young man must be either rich or noble, and he seems quite handsome.”

Lin Keyu stared at Mu Zhian’s back for a long time, then asked, “How does Princess Yongning know he’s rich or noble? He hasn’t even shown his face yet.”

“Being able to give someone an Aurora Crystal upon first meeting, only descendants of those Ancient Families can do that, right?”

Princess Yongning chuckled softly, “Mister Zhu Cheng has a sharp eye for people. He must have guessed this and decided to do him a favor.”

“As for his appearance…”

She thought for a moment and said, “Although I can’t see clearly, one’s aura doesn’t lie… I think he should be quite handsome.”

Lin Keyu glanced at the always elegant eldest princess: “Could it be that Your Highness is interested?”

Princess Yongning gently shook her head, gave the young girl a meaningful look, and said with a smile, “I just saw you staring at him, so I mentioned it.”

“Miss Lin, do you know him?” Princess Yongning asked casually.

Lin Keyu shook her head: “I don’t know him.”

She paused, then smiled weakly and said softly, “And I already have someone I like.”

But as she spoke, her gaze remained fixed on the young man.

Her beautiful eyes were filled with resentment.

Chapter 513: Wahhh, Sister Lingxuan, I Don’t Want to Work Hard Anymore!

Two Polarities Peak.

The Princess and Lin Ling sat facing each other. Lin Ling held up her little notebook and asked Mu Zhian, “Who is this?”

Mu Zhian smiled, “The Princess of Cloud Province. You’ve heard of her, right?”

In the Nine Provinces, there was only one cultivator innately connected to the Great Dao. Ordinary cultivators might not know her, but a great power like Senior Spirit Dragon should…or so Mu Zhian thought.

Unexpectedly, Lin Ling shook her head slightly. “I don’t know her.”

Mu Zhian: “…”

“You’re both innately connected to the Great Dao, and you don’t know her?” Mu Zhian asked, surprised.

Lin Ling made a confused “Aaa” sound, a puzzled look on her face, as if asking, Why should I know her?

Then, her gaze quickly fell on Mu Zhian, and she held up her little notebook, asking, “It’s only been less than a month, how did you reach the peak of Nascent Soul Realm already?”

The Princess glanced at Mu Zhian with a smile, curious to hear his answer.

“It’s a long story. Basically, I encountered some opportunities… but the details are rather complicated.”

That kind of talk can only fool children… the Princess thought.

Lin Ling nodded thoughtfully: “I see, I understand.”

That’s it? She doesn’t doubt his words at all?!

A hint of suspicion appeared in the Princess’s beautiful eyes, and she couldn’t help but ask, “What exactly is your relationship with the Spirit Dragon?”

She could sense the Spirit Dragon’s almost blind trust in Mu Zhian.

Although the Spirit Dragon seemed innocent and naive, it was actually very difficult to win her heart.

Perhaps the Spirit Dragon was indeed easily deceived, but the problem was…the Spirit Dragon could sense others’ malice and goodwill from birth. If anyone had ulterior motives towards her, they probably wouldn’t even have the chance to get close.

Hearing this, Lin Ling also looked at Mu Zhian with bright eyes, seemingly wanting to hear his answer directly.

Mu Zhian sighed softly and changed the subject, “Your Highness, do you still remember why I invited you to Two Polarities Peak?”

The Princess nodded slightly, “You said it was related to your Soul Transformation Heavenly Tribulation, and also related to the Spirit Dragon… What exactly are you planning?”

Both Lin Ling and the Princess stared at Mu Zhian, their attention completely captured by his deliberate vagueness.

Mu Zhian said, “Actually, I invited you here for the matter of Transcendence.”

The Princess raised a delicate eyebrow and asked, “You mean… the Spirit Dragon is about to transcend?”

Mu Zhian nodded gently, “Senior Spirit Dragon has reached the threshold of Transcendence, but she’s struggling because she can’t connect with the Great Dao.”

“So you want to use me to let the Spirit Dragon connect with the Great Dao?”

The Princess seemed to understand something and sighed softly, “It’s not that I don’t want to help you, but I can’t let the Spirit Dragon connect with the Great Dao.”

“The reason you can get close to the Great Dao is because you used me as a medium, and we performed the Spiritual Energy exchange ritual… But the Spirit Dragon and I couldn’t possibly do… that kind of thing.”

The Princess’s face flushed slightly, seemingly finding it difficult to say those words.

Mu Zhian understood. The Princess could let him connect with the Great Dao because she could transfer the Spiritual Energy naturally close to the Great Dao into his cauldron through dual cultivation.

But with the Spirit Dragon… that method wouldn’t work.

Isn’t there any way for Lin Ling to connect with the Great Dao…? Mu Zhian frowned slightly, thinking inwardly.

“Actually, it’s not entirely impossible.”

Just then, a cool and pleasant voice suddenly came from outside the pavilion.

Mu Zhian looked over and saw Senior Sister Lan in a moon-white dress.

Lan Mulian was also looking at him, her gaze sweeping over the three, then lingering on the voluptuous and sexy Princess for a moment.

“Senior Sister, why are you here?” Mu Zhian suddenly asked, interrupting Lan Mulian’s suspicious expression at the right moment.

Lan Mulian said faintly, “Master knew you would be back today, so she asked me to leave a letter for you.”

She took out a letter from her sleeve and handed it to Mu Zhian.

“I haven’t read it. Master said this letter is only for you,” Lan Mulian said calmly, but a hint of envy and jealousy was evident in her tone.

Having a man she liked for the first time, and a respected master, these should have been two happy things… But why did it turn out like this?

Lan Mulian wasn’t jealous, but envious that Mu Zhian received a handwritten letter from the Sect Master, a letter only he could read.

To Lan Mulian, Shang Yanfei was like both a master and a mother. Having lost her own mother at a young age and never experiencing familial love, Lan Mulian felt the warmth of family from Shang Yanfei.

Of course, if Lan Mulian knew that Mu Zhian had suppressed her most respected Master on Two Polarities Peak a few days ago… she didn’t know how she would feel.

Mu Zhian opened the letter and scanned it.

“When you see this letter, I’m afraid I’ll already be…”

Mu Zhian’s heart sank slightly upon reading this, then he saw the continuation: “…probably resting, so there’s no need to worry.”

Why does this woman like to tease people so much… Mu Zhian was speechless inwardly. He felt that the image of the mysterious and powerful Sect Master Sister in his heart was crumbling.

He knew Shang Yanfei had some health problems, so his first reaction was worry… but she tricked him.

But what followed in Shang Yanfei’s letter was the real issue: “I know you will definitely help the Spirit Dragon transcend, but her Dao is too special. No one in this world can help her, not even Gu Ningxian.”

Gu Ningxian? Could that be the Princess’s name?

Mu Zhian subconsciously glanced at the beautiful and alluring woman and continued reading: “No one in this world can help her, but there is one thing that can allow Lin Ling to connect with the Great Dao. As long as she connects with the Great Dao, and passes its test afterward, Lin Ling can naturally transcend and ascend.”

Mu Zhian continued reading, his eyes following the words, until he reached the last eight characters: “Forbidden Land, Flower of the Great Dao.”

The letter ended there. Mu Zhian was still pondering its contents when the Princess finally couldn’t help asking, “Do you know Sect Master Shang?”

Lan Mulian asked, “What did Master say in the letter?”

Although her expression remained cold, her gaze was fixed on Mu Zhian, her eyes flickering with curiosity.

“Sect Master Shang asked me to find a heavenly material and earthly treasure. She said it can allow Senior Spirit Dragon to connect with the Great Dao.”

Mu Zhian paused, put away the letter, and asked, “Have any of you heard of the Flower of the Great Dao?”

“The Immortal Medicine in the Eastern Continent’s Forbidden Land?” the Princess asked almost subconsciously.

As expected of a Dao Integration Realm expert, the Princess is truly knowledgeable… Mu Zhian was amazed inwardly, then glanced at Lin Ling.

The silver-haired beauty rested her cheek on her hand, blinking her adorable red eyes, tilting her head, a confused look on her face, as if asking: What’s the Flower of the Great Dao? Is it tasty?

Well… even among Dao Integration Realm experts, there are differences.

Just then, Lin Ling seemed to sense something, turned to look at Mu Zhian, wrote something in her little notebook, and handed it to him: “Are you talking bad about me in your head?”

Miss Spirit Dragon wasn’t good at other things, but when it came to sensing other people’s malicious thoughts, she was practically invincible.

Mu Zhian immediately shook his head: “I wasn’t, you misunderstood.”

Lin Ling was clearly unhappy. She hugged her cup and silently drank her water, ignoring Mu Zhian.

Whether this girl was happy or not was written all over her face. She could sense Mu Zhian brushing her off.

Comforting Lin Ling can wait… Mu Zhian looked at the Princess and asked, “Your Highness, is the Flower of the Great Dao you mentioned from the Eastern Continent’s Forbidden Land?”

He casually changed his address from ‘Princess Sister’ back to ‘Your Highness’, and discreetly glanced at Senior Sister Lan.

Fortunately, the Princess didn’t overthink it and hummed softly in agreement, “It’s said that every Forbidden Land has Immortal Medicine, and a single immortal-grade pill refined from a stalk of Immortal Medicine can allow a Dao Integration Realm expert to transcend. However, the Forbidden Lands are too dangerous. Even great powers risk death. So far, I’ve only heard of the Great Peng Emperor obtaining a stalk of Immortal Medicine.”

Lan Mulian couldn’t help but ask, “Can’t Immortal Medicine be cultivated artificially?”

The Princess gently shook her head: “Luo Tan once used Emperor Medicine as an experiment, spending almost a lifetime cultivating Immortal Medicine, but ultimately failed. Later, she concluded that Immortal Medicine is naturally born and cannot be cultivated… And Immortal Medicine only exists in the Forbidden Lands.”

“Are the Forbidden Lands really that dangerous?” Mu Zhian suddenly thought. The danger of the Forbidden Lands came from their rules being different from the outside world, thus restricting the strength of Dao Integration Realm experts.

But since he could temporarily shield the rules of heaven and earth, could he also shield the rules within the Forbidden Lands?

The Princess looked at him and said seriously, “Do you know why all cultivators fear the Forbidden Lands, not even daring to approach them?”

“Every Dao Integration Realm expert, after death, nourishes the land, even bringing blessings to all living things. But in the Forbidden Lands, great powers, after death, don’t bring blessings, but become ‘curses’. Even accidentally violating the rules there will turn one into food for the Forbidden Land.”

Lan Mulian murmured thoughtfully, “I’ve heard Master mention that the nine Forbidden Lands are incredibly dangerous. Some lesser cultivators might be fine if they follow the rules, but if cultivators above Soul Transformation Realm enter, they’re very likely to be devoured by the Forbidden Land.”

Mu Zhian made an “oh” sound and asked, “So there must still be cultivators who risked entering the Forbidden Lands for Immortal Medicine?”

He clearly understood human greed. If rumors of Immortal Medicine existing in the Forbidden Lands spread, even knowing it was a death trap, there would definitely be people entering to search for it.

“Yes, and quite a few,” the Princess said, “However, these cultivators weren’t killed by the ancient beings in the Forbidden Lands, but because they didn’t know the rules.”

“The Great Peng Emperor sent many Cloud Province cultivators into the Forbidden Land of Life before. One team almost reached the deepest part. That team had about twenty people, but only one survived… And the reason that person survived was because their surname was Lan.”

Mu Zhian subconsciously glanced at Lan Mulian.

Lan Mulian glanced at the young man, then asked, “What does having the surname Lan have to do with it?”

“One of the rules of the Forbidden Land of Life in Cloud Province is that only those with the surnames Lan, Xiao, or Ye can enter. I later checked historical records. It seems the ancient being there had three deceased wives, with the surnames Lan, Xiao, and Ye.”

“Why are the rules of the Forbidden Land of Life so bizarre?” Mu Zhian complained, speechless.

“The rules of some Forbidden Lands are very strange. Ultimately, these rules are set by people, and as long as it’s a person, they’ll set some strange rules.”

As the Princess spoke, she seemed to recall something and glanced at Mu Zhian meaningfully, “Aren’t the rules of the Heavenly Court also very strange?”

By now, even a fool could guess the connection between Mu Zhian and the Heavenly Court.

Having to be barefoot, wearing stockings and a dress, to enter the Heavenly Court… Besides Mu Zhian, who would set such strange rules for the Heavenly Court?

Mu Zhian coughed lightly and said, “Then do you know where the Eastern Continent’s Forbidden Land is? The Flower of the Great Dao should be in its depths, right?”

Hearing this, Lan Mulian couldn’t help but frown slightly, “I’ve never heard of a Forbidden Land existing in the Eastern Continent now.”

Cultivators had entered the Forbidden Lands in various parts of the Nine Provinces, more or less, for those rare heavenly materials and earthly treasures, but the Eastern Continent was an exception.

Because after the Lan Clan ancestor suppressed the Forbidden Land, the Eastern Continent’s Forbidden Land seemed to vanish mysteriously, fading from people’s sight.

The Princess glanced at Lan Mulian and said with a gentle smile, “There’s indeed no Forbidden Land in the Eastern Continent anymore.”

Mu Zhian was stunned: “No Forbidden Land…? Then why is it still called the nine Forbidden Lands?”

“The Eastern Continent’s Forbidden Land was severely damaged, then suppressed by the Lan Clan ancestor. Now, that area is practically gone,” the Princess said.

So, the Flower of the Great Dao might be lost forever?

Mu Zhian couldn’t help but frown inwardly.

Seemingly seeing through Mu Zhian’s thoughts, the Princess continued, “The Eastern Continent’s Forbidden Land is indeed gone, but later, someone established their own power on its ruins.”

“This power is very strong. It has weathered the long river of history and still exists in the Eastern Continent, even preserving some of the original Forbidden Land’s rules.”

After a while, Mu Zhian seemed to realize something and murmured, “The Forbidden Zone?”

Indeed, there was no Forbidden Land in the Eastern Continent anymore, but the Forbidden Zone was built upon its ruins. That’s why some cultivators, after rashly entering the Forbidden Zone, were mysteriously cursed and died.

The Princess nodded, confirming Mu Zhian’s guess.

Then, she continued, “However, I advise you to give up.”

The Princess’s voice softened slightly, “The Forbidden Zone has always been reclusive. The once powerful Forbidden Land was completely destroyed by the current Forbidden Zone. Even if there is a Flower of the Great Dao within, they won’t give it to you.”

“After all, Immortal Medicine is related to the secret of Transcendence and Ascension.”

Seeing Mu Zhian’s silence, the Princess said gently, “Perhaps there are other ways. You don’t need to be so discouraged. And according to my judgment, the Forbidden Zone probably hasn’t discovered the Flower of the Great Dao yet. If they had a stalk of Immortal Medicine, they would have secretly asked Luo Tan to try refining it long ago, they wouldn’t have been so quiet for ten thousand years.”

“If I can enter the depths of the Forbidden Zone, perhaps I can find the Flower of the Great Dao,” Mu Zhian suddenly said.

Hearing this, the Princess immediately tried to dissuade him: “Give up. Although the Eastern Continent’s Forbidden Land is gone, most of its ‘rules’ still remain, and the Forbidden Zone is very exclusive. You probably haven’t even reached the depths of the Forbidden Zone before being killed by the clan members guarding it.”

“There seems to be some activity in the Forbidden Zone recently. Perhaps they are also looking for the Flower of the Great Dao. It would be very dangerous for you to rashly enter,” the Princess added.

Mu Zhian shook his head, “The activity you mentioned is probably their inheritance ceremony, selecting a new Forbidden Zone Lord. I don’t think it’s related to the Flower of the Great Dao.”

“After all, the Forbidden Zone Lord’s own daughter is participating this time, so the Forbidden Zone naturally attaches great importance to it.”

The Princess was stunned, “How do you know so much?”

Due to the special rules within the Forbidden Zone, no outside forces could infiltrate it, making it incredibly mysterious to outsiders.

Yet, judging by Mu Zhian’s tone, he seemed to know everything happening in the Forbidden Zone…?

Lan Mulian said with an expressionless face, “The Forbidden Zone Holy Maiden is a disciple of the Two Polarities Sect. Junior Brother met her back in Tianxuan City.”

So they’re old acquaintances…

Just how many old acquaintances does he have… how many secrets is he hiding?!

The Princess narrowed her eyes, a dangerous glint appearing in her usually gentle gaze.

Back when Mu Zhian said he possessed the Innate Spiritual Body, the Princess suspected he might have some connection to a certain imperial daughter in the Forbidden Zone.

Now it seemed her guess was correct.

Just then, Mu Zhian put down his teacup, hesitated for a moment, and said, “Perhaps, I can go to the Forbidden Zone and try.”