Category: It turns out, they are the protagonists

Chapter 260: Wei Mengrou’s Secret p1

“Thank you, Senior Sister Yu. If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t have considered this possibility regarding Mengrou’s luck.”

Mu Zhi’an walked Yu Ziyan to the entrance of the Garden of Heavenly Harmony, expressing his sincere gratitude.

It was late at night. The quiet courtyard was bare, the flowers and trees withered by the winter cold. The surface of the pond rippled gently, reflecting the beam of white light in the sky.

Yu Ziyan wore a casual black robe, a red dot adorning her forehead. Her beauty was breathtaking, her aura cold yet alluring, captivating every gaze.

Existing outside the rules of heaven and earth could lead to such misfortune. Therefore, Wei Mengrou’s bad luck might not be true bad luck, but a ‘restriction’ imposed by the heavens.

This theory overturned Mu Zhi’an’s understanding of luck.

If Yu Ziyan hadn’t come to see him tonight, he might never have considered this possibility.

Yu Ziyan shook her head and chuckled. “There’s no need for thanks. She’s a disciple of our sect. Besides, I promised to investigate the cause of her bad luck.”

“However, I can’t help you with the origin of that black mist.”

As a peak master of the Two Polarities Sect, approaching the Southern Wilderness delegation would likely raise their suspicions.

Mu Zhi’an nodded slightly. “I’ll handle it carefully.”

“They might not be wary of you, but you should still be careful,” Yu Ziyan said, looking at him meaningfully.

The Innate Celestial Furnace within this disciple was even more ‘delicious’ than before.

However, she had recently broken through her bottleneck and didn’t need the Innate Celestial Furnace for now.

But later…

Mu Zhi’an smiled. “I know what I’m doing.”

He wouldn’t make a deal with Regina before the Ascension Ceremony.

After all, the three Imperial-Grade Medicinal Herbs had to stay within the Eastern Realm.

He planned to take advantage of her first, to find out the origin of the black mist concealing Wei Mengrou from the heavens.

He wasn’t sure if he could succeed… but he could at least try to get her to talk.

After all, he was quite experienced in using ‘beauty traps’.

After seeing Yu Ziyan off, Mu Zhi’an watched her figure disappear into the distance, then let out a sigh of relief.

It seems the secret surrounding Mengrou involves not only the Eastern Realm, but also the Southern Wilderness…

Regina held a high position in the Southern Wilderness, but she might not know about Wei Mengrou.

Regardless, he could still find some clues from her.

…

Due to the sect’s grand formation, the white light in the sky was gradually fading.

Many cultivators had gathered before the Jade Glass Palace tonight, curious about the source of the celestial phenomenon. However, as the white light dimmed, they gradually dispersed.

Mu Zhi’an withdrew his gaze, about to return to the courtyard.

Suddenly, he heard a melodious voice behind him.

“Young Master Mu, please wait!”

Lin Keyu, dressed in a pink and white dress that clung to her alluring figure, descended from the sky.

She was holding the Aurora Necklace.

Mu Zhi’an turned around, his heart skipping a beat.

Why is she here…? If she had come earlier and bumped into Senior Sister and the others, I wouldn’t be able to explain myself, even with a hundred mouths.

He felt a surge of relief, then asked in surprise, “Miss Lin, what are you doing here?”

Lin Keyu landed gracefully, her hands behind her back, and approached him.

She smiled shyly. “There was a celestial phenomenon at the Jade Glass Palace tonight, so I came here to express my gratitude for saving my life.”

She handed him the Aurora Necklace.

“I added some other special Spirit Stones and awakened its Artifact Spirit. I hope you don’t mind,” she said softly.

These girls are all loaded. They can just give away such valuable things…? Mu Zhi’an took the Aurora Necklace and immediately sensed its special properties.

It seemed to have a calming effect on the wearer.

As he put it on, the pink glow around his body dimmed slightly.

Mu Zhi’an’s eyes flickered. “This necklace can conceal Heavenly Secrets?”

“It can conceal them to a certain extent,” Lin Keyu replied, nodding slightly. “Our clan’s ancestral artifact is related to this, so I asked the elders to add some secret techniques to it.”

An ancestral artifact that can conceal Heavenly Secrets?

No wonder those people from the Qianyuan Sect wanted it… Mu Zhi’an hesitated for a moment. “Miss Lin, this is too valuable…”

“Do you think my life is worth less than this necklace, Young Master Mu?” Lin Keyu asked, tilting her head slightly, a beautiful smile on her face.

Since she had put it that way, Mu Zhi’an could only accept it.

After putting on the necklace, he chatted with Lin Keyu for a while longer.

“Someone in the Jade Glass Palace seems to have comprehended a Dao Rhyme. This Ascension Ceremony might be more challenging than we expected,” Lin Keyu said.

Mu Zhi’an’s heart sank. “Yes… it’s a bit troublesome.”

Although Ye Lingxuan becoming stronger was beneficial to him, if she won the Ascension Ceremony… it would be a problem.

But thinking about it from another perspective, Ye Lingxuan was already strong. Would it really matter if she became even stronger?

If he and Ye Lingxuan ended up being the finalists in the Ascension Ceremony, he could just ‘suppress’ her that night… Multiple times. Then, she wouldn’t be able to compete the next day, and he would be the winner, right?

Mu Zhi’an began to formulate his plan.

“What’s with the pink aura around you, Young Master Mu?” Lin Keyu suddenly asked curiously.

Mu Zhi’an snapped out of his thoughts and chuckled helplessly. “I’d also like to know its origin, but I haven’t found any clues.”

He paused, then continued, “Anyway, it’s not bad luck, so it doesn’t matter.”

Lin Keyu looked at his handsome face and his gentle smile thoughtfully. “If I could fully inherit the Xuanyin Temple’s Heaven-Peeping ancestral artifact, perhaps I could unravel the mystery of your pink aura,” she murmured.

Mu Zhi’an’s heart skipped a beat. “The Xuanyin Temple’s ancestral artifact can peer into Heavenly Secrets and even uncover the origin of my pink aura?”

Lin Keyu nodded. “Theoretically, it can. But I need to inherit the Xuanyin Temple first.”

It seems the ancestral artifact of the Xuanyin Temple must have been left behind by a Dao Integration expert who specialized in divination… Mu Zhi’an looked at Lin Keyu, his mind racing.

Snow was still falling, but they seemed oblivious to the cold as they chatted for a while longer before the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

“I was lucky to meet a kind person tonight. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have been able to find the Garden of Heavenly Harmony. I almost got lost in the Jade Glass Palace,” Lin Keyu suddenly said.

The Jade Glass Palace wasn’t that big. Is this little beauty directionally challenged…?

No wonder she arrived so late. She got lost… Mu Zhi’an chuckled. “Most of our sect disciples are kindhearted. Who did you meet, Miss Lin? Perhaps I know them.”

“Senior Sister Lan,” Lin Keyu replied.

Mu Zhi’an’s smile froze.

“She seemed to be drawn to the celestial phenomenon as well. I bumped into her on my way back. Thanks to her, I didn’t return empty-handed tonight,” Lin Keyu said, looking up at the snowy night, a hint of gratitude in her voice.

“Although Senior Sister Lan seems cold and aloof, I feel that she’s actually a very gentle person. We even chatted for a while.”

Seeing her admiration, Mu Zhi’an asked cautiously, “What did you… talk about?”

“She asked me if I was looking for someone. I said yes, and then she asked if I was looking for Young Master Mu…” Lin Keyu paused, looking at him with admiration. “I didn’t know you were acquainted with Senior Sister Lan, Young Master Mu.”

“We just happened to meet,” Mu Zhi’an replied, his heart sinking.

Suddenly, Lin Keyu noticed a paper crane flying towards them from an unknown direction. “What’s that?” she asked curiously.

Mu Zhi’an also looked up and saw the paper crane landing on his hand.

He unfolded it, and a single sentence appeared:

“Young Master Mu, Miss Lin’s Aurora Necklace is beautiful. Treasure it well.”

Mu Zhi’an’s face turned pale.

…

As it turned out, Senior Sister was still Senior Sister. This woman was terrifyingly intelligent… If he married her in the future, he wouldn’t be able to hide even the slightest secret from her.

Mu Zhi’an sighed helplessly, saw Lin Keyu off, and returned to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony, his body exhausted.

He had previously been a villainous supporting character, possessing both intelligence and cunning. However, the problem now was… the ‘fish’ in his pond all seemed to be protagonists.

And protagonists, in this world at least, possessed talent, intelligence, and luck…

And then there were the peak masters who were trying to ‘catch’ him…

Fortunately, Yao Meng didn’t seem to be interested in dragging him into her own pond. Otherwise, his actions would become increasingly difficult.

Chapter 259: Mu Zhi’an: Operation Seduction! p2

Back at the Garden of Heavenly Harmony, Mu Zhi’an was worried about Wei Mengrou’s bad luck, so he said to Bai Ruoxi, “Ruoxi, I’ll take Mengrou back to her room first. I’ll be with you later.”

Bai Ruoxi looked up at him, her beautiful face filled with understanding. “Go ahead, Mu Lang.”

Because it was Wei Mengrou, Bai Ruoxi felt at ease. She wasn’t worried about Mu Zhi’an encountering a ‘Maid Training’ scenario in Wei Mengrou’s room.

Mu Zhi’an took Wei Mengrou back to her room and observed her carefully.

Perhaps because the white light in the sky hadn’t dissipated yet, the black aura surrounding Wei Mengrou persisted. The beautiful woman in a yellow dress seemed to be shrouded in a black mist. She remained silent.

“Are you feeling unwell?” Mu Zhi’an asked.

Wei Mengrou looked at him, her clear eyes as calm as ever, and shook her head gently. “I’m fine.”

She paused, then continued, “It’s getting late. You should go back and rest.”

“I’m not in a hurry. You don’t need to rest anyway, Mengrou. Let’s chat for a while,” Mu Zhi’an said with a smile, sitting down casually.

His gaze fell upon a book on the table.

“Do you read, Mengrou?” Mu Zhi’an asked curiously.

Wei Mengrou’s eyes narrowed, and she reached out to stop him, but he had already picked up the book and glanced at its cover.

“The Art of Managing a Husband…” he read aloud, then froze.

“?”

He looked up at Wei Mengrou, whose face was as cold as ice.

“Mengrou, what’s this…?”

“Lady Bai lent it to me after she finished reading it. I flip through it occasionally,” Wei Mengrou replied coldly, her expression unchanged. However, she avoided his gaze, snatching the book from his hand and putting it away in her storage ring.

Mu Zhi’an rested his chin on his hand, observing the aloof maid with a knowing glint in his eyes.

“Do you… need anything else? If not, please leave,” Wei Mengrou said calmly, clearly uncomfortable under his gaze. A faint blush appeared on her usually cold face in the candlelight.

Mu Zhi’an didn’t leave. He looked at the black mist surrounding her and said, “If I remember correctly, your bad luck seemed to be suppressed after you refined that bronze fragment, Mengrou. Why is it still so severe?”

The topic change was successful. Wei Mengrou silently took out the bronze fragment from her pocket.

Unlike Bai Ruoxi’s, this fragment didn’t show any clear patterns. However, her bad luck had indeed been suppressed after she refined it.

But unexpectedly, it was still this severe.

Looking at the bronze fragment on her chest, against the backdrop of her fair skin, Mu Zhi’an couldn’t help but sigh inwardly.

So big and white…

He enviously glanced at the spot where the bronze fragment had been stored, feeling a pang of jealousy.

Tsk, I’m so envious…

He also wanted to bury his face in Mengrou’s bosom.

“Have you seen enough?” Wei Mengrou asked coldly, her beautiful eyes filled with disdain.

She knew her young master had ulterior motives…

Mu Zhi’an quickly collected his thoughts and asked seriously, “Has tonight’s celestial phenomenon affected you in any other way?”

Well, the maid is right here. There’s no need to rush… I just need to improve our relationship, and there will be opportunities to experience Mengrou’s embrace in the future.

Wei Mengrou scrutinized Mu Zhi’an, seeing his sincere gaze, she shook her head. “Apart from my luck being revealed by that white light, there’s no other effect.”

“However…”

She paused, looked at the faint black mist emanating from her hand, and frowned slightly. “This doesn’t seem to be luck.”

If she remembered correctly, luck should manifest as a black glow. Ye Lingxuan’s actions tonight had triggered a celestial phenomenon, revealing a mysterious white light, and her own luck had indeed manifested as a black glow.

But at some point, the black glow had been replaced by this black mist.

“Now that you mention it, it does seem strange. This black mist doesn’t look like luck…”

Mu Zhi’an frowned, observing the mist swirling around her fair skin.

Suddenly, they heard a clear and melodious voice from outside, “May I come in?”

Wei Mengrou and Mu Zhi’an both looked up.

The door opened, and Yu Ziyan, the mature and alluring woman in a black robe, stood there.

“Senior Sister Yu?” Mu Zhi’an looked at her, surprised. “What are you doing here?”

Yu Ziyan chuckled. “Am I interrupting something?”

Why does it sound like Mengrou and I are doing something shameful in here…? Mu Zhi’an shook his head and chuckled. “I’m just surprised to see you here so late, Senior Sister…”

He looked at her, puzzled.

Yu Ziyan’s beautiful eyes calmly observed the two of them, then her gaze settled on Wei Mengrou.

Under their questioning gazes, she said, “I believe I’ve found the cause of her bad luck.”

Silence fell over the room.

The candlelight flickered, casting dancing shadows on the walls.

Mu Zhi’an stared at Yu Ziyan. After a long moment of silence, he finally spoke, his voice filled with disbelief, “You… you know the reason for Mengrou’s bad luck, Senior Sister Yu?”

Wei Mengrou also looked at her expectantly.

Yu Ziyan nodded slightly. “I was wondering why someone’s bad luck could be so severe. Tonight’s celestial phenomenon gave me a clue.”

She walked into the room and, with her slender hand, picked up the bronze fragment hanging on Wei Mengrou’s ample bosom. “Everyone is born within the rules of heaven and earth. Accordingly, these rules allow every cultivator to cultivate, up to the Nascent Soul Realm.”

“But what happens to someone who exists outside these rules?”

Under their gazes, Yu Ziyan continued, “They are punished by the heavens.”

“But I’ve heard that the heavens only punish those with extremely bad luck—”

Mu Zhi’an paused, realizing something. “It’s not that the heavens punish those with bad luck, but those who exist outside the rules of heaven and earth. And this… affects their luck?”

Yu Ziyan’s theory opened up a new line of thought…

“But if the heavens punish those who exist outside the rules, why hasn’t Mengrou been punished in any other way? Why is it just her luck that’s affected?” Mu Zhi’an asked, puzzled.

“Perhaps she possesses some kind of spell that conceals her from the heavens.”

Yu Ziyan looked out the window at the night sky. “Just like this sect’s grand formation.”

The main purpose of activating the grand formation tonight was to conceal Heavenly Secrets. The peak masters had been wondering why it was necessary and what exactly they were concealing.

Now, it seemed the grand formation was activated to shield the sect from the heavens.

“You dual cultivated with my disciple tonight. She comprehended a trace of Dao Rhyme from your Innate Celestial Furnace. And that Dao Rhyme… it doesn’t belong to the Heavenly Dao, the Earthly Dao, or the Human Dao. It’s a new Heavenly Dao, distinct from the existing three,” Yu Ziyan revealed.

Why can she talk about dual cultivation so casually…? Mu Zhi’an covered his face with his hand, trying to process her words.

“So Mengrou exists outside the rules of heaven and earth, which is why she’s being punished by the heavens. And Lingxuan broke those rules by comprehending a new Dao Rhyme, so she would have also been punished tonight. But the sect’s grand formation concealed her from the heavens, so they couldn’t detect her?”

Yu Ziyan nodded silently.

Suddenly, Mu Zhi’an remembered something.

The Sword Palace Master had said something similar in the Sword Palace.

Gong Lianyue had severed her connection with the Heavenly Dao and even a part of herself, all for the sake of achieving Dao Integration again.

Why?

Because she didn’t want to merge with the existing Heavenly Dao?

At this moment, although Mu Zhi’an was still confused, he felt a glimmer of understanding.

This explanation made sense… Perhaps Wei Mengrou wasn’t born with bad luck. Perhaps her existence was too extraordinary, beyond the rules of heaven and earth, and therefore, rejected by the heavens. That was why they had cursed her with bad luck, limiting her cultivation.

As for the reason… no one knew.

As expected of the peak master of Dao Peak. Her experience and judgment are truly remarkable… Mu Zhi’an looked at Yu Ziyan’s beautiful face, filled with admiration.

Then, he looked at the bronze fragment on Wei Mengrou’s chest and asked humbly, “Mengrou’s bad luck seemed to lessen after she refined this bronze fragment. Why is that?”

“This bronze fragment likely possesses the ability to conceal Heavenly Secrets. The more it conceals, the less her bad luck will affect her.”

Yu Ziyan frowned as she looked at the black mist that was gradually fading from Wei Mengrou’s body. “This black mist seems to be a Southern Wilderness secret technique. I don’t know why it’s on her. If we can find out its origin, perhaps we can get closer to the truth.”

“Should we ask the Southern Wilderness’s Holy Maiden?” Mu Zhi’an suggested tentatively.

Yu Ziyan shook her head. “Only a few people know the Southern Wilderness’s secret techniques. That Holy Maiden’s status isn’t ordinary. She likely knows the truth, but this is a serious matter. She won’t reveal the secrets of her techniques.”

She couldn’t help but feel a pang of regret.

However, tonight’s investigation wasn’t a complete waste. They now had a lead. If they followed it, they would eventually uncover all of Wei Mengrou’s secrets.

Yu Ziyan collected her thoughts, looked at Mu Zhi’an, and said with a smile, “We’ve made significant progress tonight. Don’t be discouraged. We’ll get to the bottom of this eventually.”

However, after she finished speaking, she noticed that Mu Zhi’an was silent.

After a moment, he suddenly murmured, “Perhaps I can try tomorrow?”

“What do you mean…?” Yu Ziyan asked, her gaze fixed on him.

“I think I can convince Regina to tell me.”

Mu Zhi’an pondered for a moment, then looked up. “It might take some… persuasion.”

Chapter 259: Mu Zhi’an: Operation Seduction! p1

The Two Polarities Sect’s grand formation was rarely activated.

Its nine smaller formations were located within the nine main peaks. Without Shang Yanfei’s order, the peak masters and elders wouldn’t have activated the long-dormant grand formation.

At this moment, within a Celestial Realm, the nine peak masters were gathered, a rare occurrence.

Over twenty elders guarded the formations of the nine main peaks, while the peak masters were here to check on the grand formation’s core.

Yi Hao stood with his hands clasped behind his back, looking up at the moon in the sky… or rather, a beam of white light.

It was a gentle, warm light.

“What is that? Why do I feel a sense of familiarity towards it?” Yi Hao frowned, lost in thought.

Ning Yuan also looked up at the light. “The Sect Master must know something.”

They only knew that the Sect Master had ordered them to activate the grand formation, but they didn’t know the reason.

Could it be related to this white light in the sky?

“Junior Sister Yu is skilled in divination. Does she know anything?” the peak master of Hidden Sword Peak asked, his gaze shifting to Yu Xuanji, whose alluring figure was accentuated by her feathered robe.

The other peak masters also looked at her.

Heavenly Secrets Peak specialized in divination, and Junior Sister Yu was particularly skilled in this area. Perhaps she knew the answer.

However, Yu Xuanji simply shook her head and chuckled. “This has nothing to do with us. It’s best to suppress our curiosity and focus on our cultivation.”

Yu Ziyan asked, “It seems you know something, Junior Sister.”

“I haven’t performed any divination, but since the Sect Master has ordered us to activate the grand formation, it means that even if we knew the reason, it wouldn’t benefit us and might even cause trouble,” Yu Xuanji replied with a smile.

Yu Ziyan raised an eyebrow and looked up at the white light in the sky.

With the activation of the grand formation, the light that had initially illuminated the entire night sky was now reduced to a single beam.

However, its gentle glow still evoked a sense of comfort and trust.

Why would the Sect Master be so wary of this unknown white light, even going so far as to activate the grand formation and conceal Heavenly Secrets?

Yu Ziyan’s eyes flickered. She formed a hand seal and used Dao Peak’s secret technique to observe the light again.

This time, she froze, her expression changing slightly as she instinctively took a step back.

There was something strange about this white light!

“What’s wrong, Senior Sister?” Yu Xuanji, noticing her unusual behavior, immediately asked.

“This white light seems to have its own consciousness. It’s searching for something within our sect,” Yu Ziyan said, suppressing her unease as she stared at the gentle light.

Initially, looking at the white light felt like entering a utopia.

But when she used the secret technique to observe it more closely, it felt like that utopia had suddenly transformed into a village of the dead, a chilling sensation washing over her.

The other peak masters also looked up at the sky.

After a moment of silence, they exchanged glances, their eyes filled with shock.

It was just as Yu Ziyan had said. This thing seemed to have some kind of consciousness and was searching for something within the sect!

But what was it looking for?

The answer was obvious. It must be related to the person who had triggered tonight’s celestial phenomenon.

As they thought about this, their gazes almost simultaneously shifted towards the Jade Glass Palace.

Many were speculating about who had caused such a commotion tonight, but no one knew the answer.

Only the peak masters had a vague idea.

It was likely related to Mu Zhi’an.

Or rather, it was related to the person who had been intimate with him tonight.

We need to go to the Jade Glass Palace and see… Yu Ziyan’s eyes flickered as a clue formed in her mind.

…

Dexin Courtyard.

Back in her room, Ye Lingxuan, dressed in a white robe, sat on her bed and meditated for an hour. After her mental state had recovered, she opened her eyes and stretched lazily.

Although it was winter, a charcoal fire burned in the fireplace, and with their innate resistance to cold, cultivators didn’t feel the chill.

Her robe was thin, and her stretching revealed the alluring curve of her bosom. Her figure was actually quite good, but compared to Bai Ruoxi’s, it was a bit… lacking.

As she stretched, the dimples on her slender waist became more prominent, adding to her charm.

She looked towards the door, as if sensing something. “Who’s there?” she asked.

The door silently opened, and Ye Qian, dressed in a jacket and knee-length skirt, stood there, peeking into the room.

“Will I disturb you, Sister?”

Ye Lingxuan shook her head and smiled. “It’s cold outside. Come in.”

Ye Qian entered the room and closed the door behind her.

“Why are you here so late, Qian’er? Is there something you need?” Ye Lingxuan asked, looking at her sister, who had sat down on the bed beside her.

Ye Qian looked at her with a complicated expression and whispered, “Did Brother Mu come here tonight, Sister?”

The smile on Ye Lingxuan’s face slowly faded. After a moment of silence, under her sister’s unwavering gaze, she sighed softly and nodded.

“So the person who comprehended a trace of Dao Rhyme tonight… was you, Sister?” Ye Qian seemed relieved after hearing her confirmation.

Ye Lingxuan was stunned, then said apologetically, “You’re not angry with me?”

Ye Qian shook her head gently. “Didn’t I tell you before, Sister? I’m happy to see you and Brother Mu together…”

She coughed lightly. “I’m happy for you.”

Ye Lingxuan looked at her sister strangely. Her posture was demure, her aura pure and alluring. Judging from her appearance alone, no one would have guessed that she had such a… peculiar hobby.

However, it was limited to her own sister… This was one of Ye Lingxuan’s few comforts.

“Don’t tell Sister Siyu about this. I’m afraid she’ll tell Mother,” Ye Lingxuan said through voice transmission.

Ye Siyu clearly had a negative opinion of Mu Zhi’an. Until her aunt changed her mind, she had to be cautious.

Ye Qian nodded, then asked curiously, “Was Brother Mu in your room when I came here earlier, Sister?”

Her beautiful eyes were filled with curiosity.

Ye Lingxuan hesitated for a moment, then nodded demurely.

Ye Qian’s pure face lit up with understanding, her eyes sparkling as she stared at her sister, seemingly lost in thought.

Ye Lingxuan blushed and changed the subject, “Your inheritance is complete, right?”

Ye Qian snapped out of her thoughts and nodded slightly.

Then, she hesitated for a moment and took out a paper crane from her pocket. “Sister, I received a paper crane earlier… It seemed to come from Two Polarities Peak…”

Ye Lingxuan froze, her eyes widening as if realizing something.

Could it be that… Qian’er also received it?

Under her gaze, Ye Qian unfolded the paper crane, revealing its contents.

It was indeed the same message as the one she had received.

Ye Lingxuan also took out her paper crane and unfolded it.

The two sisters looked at each other in silence.

After a few seconds, Ye Qian broke the silence. “What is Master planning?”

“It seems it wasn’t just us. Sister Ruoxi and the others probably received it too.”

Ye Lingxuan, maintaining her elegant composure, said thoughtfully, “Regardless of her intentions, as long as we win the Ascension Ceremony, we can take him back to the Forbidden Zone, and no one can say anything, right?”

Ye Qian looked at her sister, shocked.

“Are you confident you can win, Sister?”

What if someone else won and took Mu Zhi’an away, and she never saw him again…?

“Sister Ruoxi and the others are all formidable opponents,” Ye Lingxuan said calmly. “But I’ll win.”

Her voice was filled with confidence, as if she were stating a simple fact.

It made sense. Ye Lingxuan had comprehended a trace of Dao Rhyme and was far stronger than ordinary Core Formation cultivators. It was no wonder she was so confident.

Ye Qian thought for a moment, then said, “What if Brother Mu ends up being your final opponent in the Ascension Ceremony? Are you confident you can defeat him, Sister?”

“Even if it’s him, I won’t hold back,” Ye Lingxuan said with a snort.

Although she had begged for mercy after being ‘suppressed’ by Mu Zhi’an tonight, in terms of pure strength, the Forbidden Zone’s Holy Maiden feared no one.

After winning the Ascension Ceremony, she would have Brother Mu move to Dexin Courtyard.

As Ye Lingxuan thought about this, she suddenly noticed a faint golden glow in the room. Then, a beautiful woman in a loose black robe silently appeared.

Compared to the two young ladies, Yu Ziyan exuded the charm of a mature woman. Even though she was frowning slightly tonight, her expression serious, it couldn’t conceal her allure.

“Master?” Ye Qian blurted out.

Yu Ziyan smiled gently. “It’s late. I hope I’m not disturbing your cultivation.”

Ye Qian shook her head, her posture demure as she held her sister’s hand. “We were just talking about Brother Mu.”

“Mu Zhi’an?” Yu Ziyan’s eyes held a hint of curiosity.

Ye Lingxuan discreetly placed a hand on Ye Qian’s and looked at the peak master of Dao Peak, whose alluring figure seemed to be in need of… nourishment.

“You must have an important reason for coming here so late, Master.”

Yu Ziyan’s smile faded slightly. “I’m here because I have something to ask you.”

Her gaze fixed on Ye Lingxuan. “You’ve comprehended a trace of Dao Rhyme?”

Ye Lingxuan blushed, hearing her master’s question, but she still nodded slightly.

“Is it the Heavenly Dao, the Earthly Dao, or the Human Dao?” Yu Ziyan asked again, her tone more serious.

Ye Lingxuan hesitated for a moment. “The Heavenly Dao.”

“But it seems… different from the ordinary Heavenly Dao,” she added.

While dual cultivating with Mu Zhi’an tonight, she had realized that choosing the Heavenly Dao would mean submitting to its control to a certain extent. Therefore, she had abandoned that path, intending to choose either the ‘Human Dao’ or the ‘Earthly Dao’ in the future.

However, after giving up on the Heavenly Dao, she had discovered a new one.

This Heavenly Dao was unique, different from the existing one. It felt more approachable and didn’t seem to impose its will upon cultivators.

As Ye Lingxuan finished speaking, Yu Ziyan immediately grabbed her wrist. Dao Peak’s secret techniques had unique insights into the ‘natural order’, somewhat similar to the Innate Spiritual Body.

As Ye Lingxuan relaxed, Yu Ziyan’s Spiritual Sense swiftly scanned her body. She looked at the young lady and murmured, as if realizing something, “I understand…”

Mu Zhi’an had asked her to investigate the cause of Wei Mengrou’s bad luck, but she had been stumped.

However, the white light in the sky tonight had given her a crucial clue.

Wei Mengrou’s bad luck… Even if they searched the entire sect… no, even if they searched the entire Nine Realms, they wouldn’t find anyone with worse luck.

But what if her bad luck wasn’t innate?

Chapter 258: The Ring or Your Finger, Mu Lang? 

“So Lingxuan awakened an Artifact Spirit and triggered a Heavenly Tribulation to create this ring with an Artifact Spirit?”

Ye Siyu blinked, leaning closer to Mu Zhi’an, examining the ring in his hand. She glanced at the identical ring on Ye Lingxuan’s finger, narrowed her eyes, and chuckled. “So this was the gift she prepared for him…”

“Are you two getting engaged?” she asked ‘curiously’.

Ye Lingxuan blushed, glaring at the mischievous girl. “Brother Mu gave me a Holy Lightning Rock, so I had it made into jewelry,” she said helplessly.

“You’re so kind to Lingxuan, Young Master Mu. If I’m not mistaken, a Holy Lightning Rock is worth at least 100,000 Spirit Stones, and it’s incredibly rare,” Bai Ruoxi said softly.

“Wearing such a valuable ring might attract unwanted attention.”

Mu Zhi’an noticed that Bai Ruoxi’s usually clear eyes had darkened, but her gaze remained gentle.

Her words seemed to imply: Do you want the ring or your finger?

Ye Qian lowered her head. She was usually a well-behaved girl, but she felt a pang of jealousy.

Mu Zhi’an’s heart skipped a beat. He coughed lightly and said helplessly, “It’s related to what happened to me in the Sword Palace. I obtained the Holy Lightning Rock there.”

He looked at Bai Ruoxi and sighed. “You were receiving the inheritance in the Sword Palace at the time, Ruoxi, so you probably don’t know what happened to Mengrou and me.”

Lan Mulian’s expression remained unchanged. “What does that have to do with the ring in your hand?”

Mu Zhi’an smiled wryly. “The Sword Palace is filled with complex Celestial Realms. Mengrou and I were trapped in one and couldn’t escape. Fortunately, thanks to Lingxuan, we were able to find the sealed Sword Palace Master and escape.”

“What does that have to do with me?” Even Ye Lingxuan was confused.

Wei Mengrou glanced at Mu Zhi’an.

In the past, she would have exposed his lies. However, tonight, for some reason, she remained silent.

“Lingxuan, you possess the Innate Spiritual Body, right?” Mu Zhi’an asked, even though he already knew the answer.

Ye Lingxuan nodded slightly.

“Actually, after visiting the Forbidden Zone with you, I obtained a similar constitution from the Rebirth Pool. Although it’s not as powerful as a true Innate Spiritual Body, it helped me find the exit of the Sword Palace’s Celestial Realm and discover the treasures within.”

Is this reason sufficient? I gave Lingxuan the Holy Lightning Rock because her Innate Spiritual Body indirectly helped me… Can you put away your ‘locks’ now?

Mu Zhi’an thought this explanation was enough, but Lan Mulian clearly didn’t believe him. “It’s none of my business who you give gifts to, Young Master Mu, but I am interested in the Innate Spiritual Body,” she said calmly.

So Senior Sister can also be tsundere… Mu Zhi’an observed the cold and beautiful Lan Mulian, then said suddenly, “Senior Sister, you possess the Sacred Heavenly Body, and judging from your Spiritual Energy, you’re almost at the peak of the first-grade Nascent Soul Realm, right?”

Only a few people knew Lan Mulian’s current cultivation level, and she hadn’t told Mu Zhi’an about it. As he spoke, a flicker of surprise appeared in her usually cold eyes.

“Mengrou is at the eighth-grade Core Formation Realm, and Qian’er is at the fourth-grade…” Mu Zhi’an listed everyone’s cultivation level and progress.

The tense atmosphere eased slightly after Mu Zhi’an’s explanation.

Then, the women, including Ye Siyu, looked at him with strange expressions.

The Innate Spiritual Body was an extraordinary constitution. Ye Lingxuan’s rapid cultivation progress and strength were due to this constitution.

And Mu Zhi’an had obtained the same constitution after a trip to the Forbidden Zone?

Even if it was a weaker version, it would still be incredibly useful in both combat and everyday life.

“If it weren’t for this Innate Spiritual Body, I wouldn’t have been able to escape the Sword Palace. Therefore, I’m truly grateful to you, Lingxuan.”

Mu Zhi’an looked at Ye Lingxuan with a sincere expression, his gaze filled with affection, implying that the Holy Lightning Rock wasn’t just a token of gratitude, but something more.

Ye Lingxuan’s eyes flickered as she met his gaze, then she shyly lowered her eyes.

Seeing that everyone was silent, Mu Zhi’an seized the opportunity and transmitted his voice to Lan Mulian, “If you want a Holy Lightning Rock, Senior Sister, I can give you one.”

Lan Mulian glanced at him coldly and replied through voice transmission, “I’m not interested in the Holy Lightning Rock, Young Master Mu. You should save it for someone who needs it.”

Mu Zhi’an sighed and transmitted his voice again, “I know you’re unhappy with me tonight, Senior Sister. However, I believe there’s no need to be so formal between us. You’ve taken care of me so much in the past, and I’ve always wanted to repay your kindness.”

Lan Mulian observed him with a smile and replied through voice transmission, “If that’s the case, why didn’t you come to Two Polarities Peak after returning from the Sword Palace? Why tonight?”

Mu Zhi’an transmitted his voice, “After the snow lotus incident, you misunderstood me, Senior Sister. I was worried that if you found out I had given special Spirit Stones to others…”

He trailed off, his expression troubled.

“Do you think I would be jealous?” Lan Mulian chuckled through voice transmission. “You seem quite confident in your charm, Young Master Mu.”

I’m looking at you being jealous right now… Mu Zhi’an replied, “Giving gifts isn’t necessarily about romantic love. I just wanted to make that clear to you, Senior Sister.”

In a way, tonight’s trouble wasn’t entirely a bad thing. He could use this opportunity to lay the groundwork for the future.

Mu Zhi’an’s message was clear: Don’t misunderstand if you see me wearing bracelets, rings, and necklaces from other girls. These gifts aren’t necessarily tokens of romantic love. It just means I have a good relationship with them…

Lan Mulian’s eyes flickered as she replied through voice transmission, “You’re giving me gifts simply out of gratitude, Young Master Mu?”

Mu Zhi’an looked at her and said softly, “You understand, Senior Sister.”

Lan Mulian glanced at him, then calmly looked away.

“The Ascension Ceremony is approaching. We should focus on that.”

She paused, then continued, “It’s fine to relax and have fun occasionally, but don’t neglect your cultivation.”

This is an indirect agreement… Mu Zhi’an was overjoyed. He looked at her and transmitted his voice, “Thank you for your guidance, Senior Sister. I’ll cultivate diligently from now on.”

Then, he sent similar messages to Bai Ruoxi, Ye Qian, and the others, explaining about giving special Spirit Stones to other women.

This way, he could wear the accessories they made for him without any problems.

After these private conversations, the tense atmosphere gradually eased.

Seizing the opportunity, Mu Zhi’an said, “There’s been a lot going on tonight, and this phenomenon doesn’t seem to be ending anytime soon. Let’s go back and cultivate. We can wait for it to disappear.”

“Besides, it’s not a good time for Mengrou to be out and about,” he added.

He was genuinely concerned about Wei Mengrou.

Although her bad luck was currently manifested as a visible aura, who knew if the ‘moon’ in the sky would affect her?

Moreover, Wei Mengrou was sensitive to other people’s gazes. She was the only one among these beauties with a black aura, making her stand out.

If outsiders saw her, it would inevitably lead to gossip.

Ye Siyu frowned slightly, looking at Mu Zhi’an suspiciously.

Although she didn’t know what he had said, the previously tense atmosphere had clearly eased after his private conversations.

This guy is much more capable than I imagined… Ye Siyu thought, observing him with her beautiful eyes.

Mu Zhi’an pretended to be oblivious and transmitted his voice to Ye Lingxuan, “You’ve worked hard tonight, Lingxuan. Go back and rest well. Don’t overexert yourself.”

Ye Lingxuan murmured in response. Having just been intimate with him, she couldn’t bring herself to look at him directly, afraid of revealing their secret.

Mu Zhi’an transmitted his voice again, “Siyu seems to have a strong prejudice against me. I want to find an opportunity to talk to her and get to know her better. Can you arrange something, Lingxuan?”

Judging from her behavior tonight, his aunt would be a huge problem in the future. He needed to find a way to appease her, perhaps by flattering her, to prevent her from reporting to his future mother-in-law…

Ye Lingxuan snapped out of her thoughts, glanced at him, and replied through voice transmission, “Mm… I’ll create an opportunity for you.”

She could tell that Ye Siyu had a strong opinion about Mu Zhi’an, but that was only because she didn’t understand his good qualities.

Just like she had initially disliked him for being a spoiled playboy, but after getting to know him better, she realized he wasn’t that bad.

The crisis had been averted, and Mu Zhi’an finally relaxed. After watching Ye Lingxuan and the others leave, he turned to go back.

Suddenly, he felt a familiar gaze upon him. He paused and turned around.

Not far from the Garden of Heavenly Harmony, he saw a figure in a bright red dress. Her long, golden hair cascaded down her back, and her skirt revealed her long, shapely legs. A black leg ring adorned her right thigh, creating a slight indentation in her smooth, jade-like skin.

She smiled charmingly, her hands behind her back, her gaze fixed on Mu Zhi’an.

It was Regina.

Besides Lan Mulian, others had also sensed that the celestial phenomenon originated from the Jade Glass Palace, and Regina, with her Soul Reading constitution, was one of them.

However, while most cultivators were captivated by the ‘moon’ in the sky, Regina’s attention was immediately drawn to Mu Zhi’an.

After all, they still had a deal to complete.

“You’re quite popular with women, Young Master Mu. I didn’t know you were also acquainted with Senior Sister Lan,” Regina said with a chuckle, her voice reaching Mu Zhi’an through voice transmission.

“Shouldn’t you be meditating at this hour, Miss Regina? Why are you at the Jade Glass Palace?” Mu Zhi’an replied through voice transmission.

“There was such a commotion at the Jade Glass Palace tonight. Anyone who sensed the source of the phenomenon would naturally come and take a look,” Regina said with a smile. “Do you know who triggered it, Young Master Mu?”

She looked at him with her innocent and vulnerable eyes, her long, golden hair framing her face, evoking a sense of pity.

“I don’t know. I’m also curious,” Mu Zhi’an replied with a calm smile.

Regina narrowed her eyes, observing him subtly.

When she sensed the phenomenon tonight, her first thought was of Mu Zhi’an.

Among all the talented individuals, his constitution was the most unique.

After all, everyone else’s constitution was for combat, while his was… for other purposes.

“Never mind if you don’t know, Young Master Mu. The Ascension Ceremony is approaching, and we might not have much time to chat after that. Why don’t you come and have some tea with me in the next few days?” Regina invited him, her beautiful eyes filled with affection.

Mu Zhi’an pondered for a moment, then nodded.

This was the Two Polarities Sect. Even people from the Southern Wilderness had to behave. What harm could come from visiting her residence?

She couldn’t possibly eat him, right?

“Then I won’t disturb you any longer, Young Master Mu. Your Dao Companion might get angry if she knows we’re chatting,” Regina said, her voice melodious.

“I don’t mind, but won’t your subordinate beat me up if he finds out about our close relationship?” Mu Zhi’an replied, using the same playful tone.

He had learned the art of ‘tea talk’ from Bai Ruoxi, who, despite her lack of scheming and malicious intent, was surprisingly adept at it.

Regina chuckled. “Are you trying to sow discord, Young Master Mu? Nigati is just someone who came with me. His actions have nothing to do with me.”

She glanced at the faint pink glow surrounding Mu Zhi’an’s body.

His luck was truly interesting…

Besides his luck, his Spiritual Energy seemed to have decreased as well.

This was both bad news and good news for her.

The bad news was that Mu Zhi’an had likely helped someone comprehend a Dao Rhyme, triggering the celestial phenomenon and prompting the Two Polarities Sect to activate their grand formation and conceal Heavenly Secrets.

After all, the laws of heaven and earth didn’t allow for ‘Dao Comprehension’.

If tonight’s events were truly related to Mu Zhi’an, then the girl who had comprehended the Dao Rhyme would be her most formidable opponent in the Ascension Ceremony.

The good news was that she would also benefit from the Innate Celestial Furnace’s enhancement.

Ideally, it would happen before the Ascension Ceremony.

That way, she would have a better chance of winning.

However, this required one thing.

She had to make this man submit to her before the Ascension Ceremony.

Countless men in the Southern Wilderness had pursued her. She knew how to manipulate hearts.

“Just you wait.”

Regina smiled, turned around, and walked away.

Chapter 257: Auntie Wants You Dead! 

“What the f*ck… What is Lingxuan trying to do?!”

In the dead of night, Mu Zhi’an almost lost control of his expression as he heard Ye Lingxuan’s clear and calm voice and felt the sudden shift in the atmosphere.

Bai Ruoxi, dressed in a white palace dress, her beauty as pure and elegant as a painting, looked at him with a mix of confusion and a hidden darkness in her clear eyes.

It was as if she was saying: Lingxuan is your Dao Companion, so what am I?

Ye Siyu narrowed her eyes, sensing the dangerous undercurrents beneath the silence, and looked at Mu Zhi’an with a playful glint in her eyes.

It seems this trip to the Two Polarities Sect wasn’t in vain.

Lan Mulian remained silent, the cold and beautiful jade-like woman simply observing him with a smile in her eyes.

Ye Qian lowered her gaze, her emotions hidden.

The silence lasted for only a few seconds before Mu Zhi’an looked up, smiled naturally at Ye Lingxuan, and said, “Lingxuan, why are you out so late?”

His words seemed to acknowledge their relationship, but they didn’t.

This was just a performance for the tutor and his companion.

Or rather, a performance for the beauties present.

His intention was simple: to convey the message that he and Lingxuan were just acting.

Of course, this required Ye Lingxuan’s cooperation…

Mu Zhi’an smiled at her, feeling a cold sweat break out on his back. He silently vowed to be more cautious in the future.

But if it weren’t for the tutor and his companion, none of this would have happened.

Are these two Ye Yu’s disciples? They might not be good at anything else, but they’re certainly good at messing things up for me…

If they hadn’t suddenly visited the Garden of Heavenly Harmony and caused such a commotion, Ye Lingxuan wouldn’t have made such a bold declaration.

However, there was still a chance to salvage the situation.

If Ye Lingxuan said something like, “Weren’t we together tonight?”, it would be troublesome for Mu Zhi’an.

But Lingxuan was a proud and shy girl.

She wouldn’t answer like that.

As Mu Zhi’an expected, upon hearing his question, Ye Lingxuan smiled brightly and said, “There was such a commotion tonight. I was worried about you, Brother Mu, so I came to check on you.”

As expected… Mu Zhi’an breathed a sigh of relief and subtly glanced at Bai Ruoxi. He noticed that the darkness in her eyes had faded slightly.

Lan Mulian, although inexperienced in matters of the heart, had excellent control over her expressions. Moreover, her veil concealed her emotions.

Ye Qian’s behavior was strange tonight. She should have been relieved to see that her brother and sister’s relationship was ‘normal’, but she seemed… disappointed?

Mu Zhi’an couldn’t understand her reaction.

Regardless, the crisis had been averted.

His assumption was correct. Ye Lingxuan was too shy to reveal that they had spent most of the night together in her room…

After all, if she admitted to being with him tonight, combined with the celestial phenomenon, it would be indirectly confirming that they had dual cultivated.

Although there had been a slight mishap, everything was still going according to plan… Mu Zhi’an smiled faintly.

He might have seemed flustered, but he was actually calm and collected.

Nearby, the tutor glared at Mu Zhi’an, then at Ye Lingxuan.

Even he couldn’t ignore the power of the Forbidden Zone.

In a sense, the Great Qian Dynasty’s territory encompassed most of the Eastern Realm. However, no one dared to provoke a behemoth like the Forbidden Zone.

If the Emperor learned that they had offended the Forbidden Zone for a suspected Calamity Body, their heads would roll.

It seems we can only retreat for now…

If it were just a disciple of the Two Polarities Sect, they could perhaps request permission from the Enforcement Hall and bring her back to the Great Qian Dynasty for the Imperial Advisor to examine.

But now that the Forbidden Zone’s Holy Maiden had spoken… the outcome was clear.

The tutor sighed softly.

However, it wasn’t a complete loss. At least, they now knew that Mu Zhi’an had such a powerful backer…

There had been rumors of a Two Polarities Sect disciple accompanying Ye Lingxuan to the Forbidden Zone, but few believed them.

But now, it seemed those rumors were true.

And that person was Mu Zhi’an.

Suddenly, the companion beside the tutor looked at Mu Zhi’an intently. “Wait… If you’re the Forbidden Zone Holy Maiden’s Dao Companion, why are there other women living in your courtyard?!”

A proud woman like the Forbidden Zone’s Holy Maiden wouldn’t tolerate her Dao Companion having intimate relationships with other women, let alone living together!

Bai Ruoxi glanced at Mu Zhi’an meaningfully, then said calmly, “That’s between me and Lingxuan. It’s none of your business.”

Then, she turned to Mu Zhi’an, her voice gentle. “You came back so late tonight, Mu Lang. You must have encountered something. I was worried about you.”

She looked at the others with a tender gaze, then gracefully walked out of the courtyard, her white palace dress clinging to her alluring figure as the night wind blew. Her gentle eyes left no room for doubt about her sincerity.

The companion’s worldview seemed to shatter. He stared at Mu Zhi’an in disbelief.

In his opinion, having the Forbidden Zone’s Holy Maiden as a Dao Companion was already enough to make anyone envious. Yet, this guy wasn’t satisfied and even had an intimate relationship with another beauty…?

The tutor, afraid of offending Ye Lingxuan, placed a hand on the companion’s shoulder, stopping him from speaking.

He was furious. If it weren’t for this companion dragging him here tonight, they wouldn’t be in this situation.

“It seems we’ve made a grave mistake. My companion, the Crown Prince’s attendant, didn’t investigate the owner of this courtyard before bringing me here. We’ll apologize properly another day,” the tutor said sincerely.

Lan Mulian didn’t even look at them. “This is the Two Polarities Sect, not the Great Qian Dynasty. There’s no need for apologies. Please leave tonight,” she said coldly.

Her words were a clear dismissal, which naturally displeased the companion. He glared at her, about to retort.

However, meeting Lan Mulian’s calm and clear gaze, he froze, a wave of fear washing over him.

The Nascent Soul Realm?!

He had been so focused on Wei Mengrou that he hadn’t noticed this young woman’s cultivation level!

The tutor’s eyes narrowed as he also realized something.

Lan Mulian’s breakthrough to the Nascent Soul Realm and her achievement of Earthly Immortal status had been widely publicized. Even those in the Great Qian Dynasty knew about it, including the Crown Prince’s tutor.

After all, she was the sole disciple of the Two Polarities Sect’s Sect Master. This title alone made her a valuable ally.

He hadn’t expected her to be present in a mere sect disciple’s courtyard.

We’ve truly misjudged the situation… The tutor sighed inwardly. He cupped his fists and, with the companion, left in a hurry.

Auras of luck surrounded them. The companion’s body emitted no glow, while the tutor’s body was enveloped in a faint red light, indicating that his luck was much better than that of ordinary people.

As the two outsiders left, everyone’s gazes subtly shifted towards Mu Zhi’an.

Mu Zhi’an noticed their gazes but pretended to be oblivious. He looked up at the tribulation clouds in the sky and the ‘moon’ that was gradually dimming under the sect’s grand formation, his expression serious. “When will this phenomenon end?”

At this moment, everyone except Mu Zhi’an was enveloped in a faint golden glow, as if they were bathed in a holy light.

This was their luck.

Only Mu Zhi’an was different. The pink glow around him was alluring and seductive, flickering intensely.

“The peak masters have activated the sect’s grand formation. This phenomenon will no longer affect the Two Polarities Sect. It should disappear soon,” Lan Mulian said calmly.

Mu Zhi’an’s eyes held a thoughtful glint.

Then, he glanced at the others, noticing that their attention was focused on the ‘moon’ in the sky. He seized the opportunity and transmitted his voice, “Lingxuan, you should all head back. I’ll visit you tomorrow.”

Ye Lingxuan frowned slightly and glanced at Bai Ruoxi, then at Lan Mulian.

Although she was reluctant to leave, Wei Mengrou’s current bad luck was too severe. It wasn’t a good time to do anything else.

Besides, she had just become intimate with Mu Zhi’an and didn’t want everyone to know.

Thinking of this, she nodded slightly.

Mu Zhi’an felt a weight lift from his shoulders.

Although there had been a mishap tonight, as long as he handled it carefully, he could still salvage the situation.

Lingxuan was a kind and understanding girl. She wouldn’t make things difficult for him.

Mu Zhi’an didn’t have a solution for dealing with a ‘harem war’.

The only solution was to prevent it from happening in the first place.

He was experienced in this area.

After all, all he had to do was conquer them one by one.

Girls were troublesome creatures when they were together, but when he was alone with them, it was much easier to handle.

Voice transmission is truly a great ability… Mu Zhi’an thought, a faint smile appearing on his face.

Suddenly, Ye Siyu, who was about to leave, stopped, her black skirt fluttering gently.

She turned to look at them.

Her eyes met Mu Zhi’an’s, and she winked playfully, a beautiful smile curving her lips.

For some reason, he had a bad feeling.

“By the way, why is Miss Lan at the Garden of Heavenly Harmony? Could it be that she was worried about Young Master Mu because of the celestial phenomenon and came to see him?” Ye Siyu asked, her eyes filled with ‘curiosity’.

“…”

The seemingly harmonious atmosphere instantly dissipated. Lan Mulian withdrew her gaze from the moon and glanced at Mu Zhi’an coldly.

“The celestial phenomenon originated from the Jade Glass Palace. I was curious about who had triggered the Dao’s resonance, so I came to take a look.”

She looked at Mu Zhi’an meaningfully and said, “I didn’t expect to encounter so many things upon arriving.”

“However, it wasn’t a wasted trip.”

She glanced at the ring on his finger and chuckled. “You have a nice ring, Young Master Mu. It even has an Artifact Spirit.”

“If I’m not mistaken…”

Her gaze shifted to Ye Lingxuan’s slender hand.

“Junior Sister Lingxuan also seems to be wearing the same ring?”

Chapter 256: Mu Zhi’an’s True Harem Crisis p2

After opening the door, Mu Zhi’an was greeted by a bright full moon hanging in the night sky.

Despite the heavy snow and the dark, cloud-filled sky, the moon seemed strangely out of place.

“What’s going on…?”

Mu Zhi’an’s eyes narrowed as he stared at the moon. It emitted a soft, warm glow.

However, for some reason, he felt a sense of awe… and a strange aversion towards it.

“Brother Mu…?”

A confused voice came from nearby. Mu Zhi’an turned to see Ye Qian standing in the corridor, her body emitting a faint golden light, her fair skin seemingly bathed in a holy glow.

She wore a light blue jacket that accentuated her ample bosom, her hands clasped before her, her beautiful eyes wide with surprise.

“What are you doing outside my sister’s room…?”

Her voice trembled slightly.

Mu Zhi’an’s expression remained calm as he walked towards her and chuckled. “Your sister encountered some problems during her cultivation, so I came to give her some guidance.”

“Tonight’s celestial phenomenon was caused by that.”

Ye Lingxuan had gathered the nine traces of Spiritual Energy within her Vessel and even comprehended a trace of Dao Rhyme. Although he didn’t know which Dao she had chosen, this ‘moon’ was clearly related to her.

Ye Qian’s eyes widened slightly as realization dawned upon her. “I see…” she murmured.

Her voice held a hint of disappointment and relief.

She wanted her sister and Mu Zhi’an to be closer, but she also didn’t want to be left behind.

However, the thought of her sister being intimate with Mu Zhi’an in her room filled her with a mix of jealousy and excitement. Her gaze towards him became complex.

“Did you also meet Princess Yongning today, Brother Mu?” Ye Qian suddenly asked.

“I ran into her on my way to the Book Pavilion… How did you know?” Mu Zhi’an asked, wondering if she had been following him.

“I met someone from the Imperial Palace today. They mentioned you,” Ye Qian replied.

“Someone else from the Imperial Palace besides Princess Yongning?” Mu Zhi’an’s eyes flickered.

Ye Qian nodded slightly. “It seemed to be the Crown Prince’s companion. He was investigating something and asked me some questions.”

“The Crown Prince’s companion?” Mu Zhi’an murmured.

Then, he remembered what Yan Ruyu had said about the Calamity Body.

A single person’s luck shouldn’t be able to affect a dynasty’s fate. However, with the Great Qian Dynasty’s decline, the Imperial Advisor was helpless, the Emperor was obsessed with cultivation, and the Crown Prince naturally didn’t want the dynasty to fall before he could ascend the throne. Therefore, he had sent someone to investigate the Calamity Body.

Mu Zhi’an understood. He looked at the faint golden glow emanating from Ye Qian’s skin and asked, “By the way, what’s with the light around you, Qian’er?”

Ye Qian looked down at her body, then back at him. “You have it too, Brother Mu,” she said.

“There’s a pink glow around you.”

Mu Zhi’an was stunned. He looked down at himself and noticed a faint pink glow surrounding his body.

No, it wasn’t exactly pink. It was more like a mix of pink, red, and even a hint of black…

“It’s probably luck,” a familiar voice suddenly said from behind him. Mu Zhi’an turned to look.

She wore a black dress with a thin black ribbon cinched around her waist. Her long hair cascaded down her back, tied with a white ribbon near her calves.

She was dressed entirely in black and white, but the black fabric accentuated her fair skin.

My future aunt has also been alerted… Mu Zhi’an chuckled. “Siyu, why are you out here?”

Ye Siyu narrowed her eyes and walked towards them, her hands behind her back. She chuckled. “Why do you sound disappointed? Did I interrupt something good?”

He’s already so close to Lingxuan, yet he doesn’t even spare her younger sister… This guy is indeed a scoundrel, just as I suspected… Although she was smiling, her eyes held a hint of danger.

Mu Zhi’an shook his head, smiling. “Of course not. Although it’s surprising to see you here, Siyu, I’m actually quite happy.”

Ye Siyu stared at him, and he met her gaze calmly.

After a moment, she scoffed. “I’ll let you off the hook this time, but don’t let me catch you again. Otherwise, I’ll tell my sister everything.”

“If she finds out her daughter’s lover is two-timing her, hmph…”

Her trip to the Two Polarities Sect wasn’t primarily about the Ascension Ceremony. Her true purpose was to assess Mu Zhi’an and report her findings to her sister.

Mu Zhi’an sighed helplessly. “You’re misunderstanding me, Siyu.”

I was finally making progress with Lingxuan and Qian’er, and now their aunt has appeared… It seems I need to avoid being too intimate with Qian’er within this courtyard…

If we want to be intimate, we’ll have to go outside…

“Do you know what this light around us is, Siyu?” Mu Zhi’an asked, changing the subject.

He had just noticed that not only he and Ye Qian, but Ye Siyu also had a similar faint golden glow around her.

Although his aunt’s cultivation level wasn’t high, she had been sealed since ancient times and had seen much more of the world than them. Perhaps she knew the answer.

“Luck,” Ye Siyu replied, stating the truth.

Then, she observed Mu Zhi’an carefully, her finger tapping her chin. “But why does your luck look so strange…?”

“I’d like to know that too…” Mu Zhi’an muttered.

He looked at her and asked, “You said it’s luck? But why is it manifesting like this?”

“It’s related to that thing in the sky,” Ye Siyu said, pointing at the moon.

“What is that…?” Mu Zhi’an asked, not understanding.

“Dao,” Ye Siyu replied.

“The Heavenly Dao, the Human Dao, and the Earthly Dao. Whenever someone comprehends a Dao Rhyme, it triggers a celestial phenomenon. Someone in the Jade Glass Palace must have comprehended a Dao Rhyme, causing this reaction. It will disappear soon.”

“And before it disappears, everyone’s luck will be revealed in this manner.”

Her eyes twinkled with amusement. “However, the person who comprehended the Dao Rhyme seems to be in the Jade Glass Palace. This Ascension Ceremony will be more interesting than I expected.”

No one knew how powerful a Core Formation cultivator who had comprehended a Dao Rhyme would be.

But they would soon find out at the Ascension Ceremony.

You’ll find it even more interesting when you realize it’s Lingxuan… Mu Zhi’an thought to himself.

Suddenly, as if remembering something, he looked up at Ye Siyu and asked, “You said everyone’s luck would be revealed?”

Ye Siyu nodded slightly. “It’s like a large-scale spell. Apart from those powerful experts, no cultivator can conceal their luck from it. It will manifest directly on their bodies.”

“If someone’s bad luck is too severe, they might even be punished by the heavens.”

“What’s wrong?” Ye Siyu asked, noticing his strange expression.

Mu Zhi’an shook his head and smiled. “Tell Lingxuan I had to leave when she comes out. There’s no need for her to see me off. I’ll visit her in the next few days.”

Then, he turned and left Dexin Courtyard.

Ye Siyu tilted her head slightly, her gaze following him curiously.

Ye Qian looked at Mu Zhi’an’s retreating figure, worry in her eyes.

It was the first time she had seen him so flustered.

…

Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

Lan Mulian gracefully descended from the sky and landed before the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

A faint golden glow surrounded her, a manifestation of her luck.

She scanned the courtyard and quickly noticed the maid in a yellow dress standing silently in the darkness, a thick black mist emanating from her body.

“He hasn’t returned to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony tonight. You’ve come to the wrong place,” Wei Mengrou said.

Lan Mulian’s eyes held a thoughtful glint. “It seems tonight’s celestial phenomenon is indeed related to him,” she murmured.

Mu Zhi’an’s constitution was unique, and he had caused quite a stir in the past. Lan Mulian had already suspected something before coming here.

She quickly collected her thoughts and looked at Wei Mengrou. The maid’s beautiful face was nearly concealed by the black mist, her fair skin tainted with a deep darkness.

Even her long, fair legs beneath the yellow dress were shrouded in a black glow.

“What’s with your luck? It seems much worse than before,” Lan Mulian asked, observing her carefully.

Wei Mengrou shook her head gently. “I’m not sure, but it doesn’t affect me, so it doesn’t matter.”

Although she said that, her eyes held a hint of gloom.

Her bad luck should have been partially suppressed after obtaining the bronze fragment, but judging from tonight’s situation, it seemed to have returned.

Although it didn’t affect her daily life, it still bothered her.

Suddenly, as if sensing something, Wei Mengrou looked up towards the outside of the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

“What’s wrong?” Lan Mulian asked.

“It seems someone is trying to enter. Please have a seat, Senior Sister Lan. I’ll go take a look,” Wei Mengrou said.

The Garden of Heavenly Harmony was protected by formations. Apart from a few authorized individuals, no one could enter unless they forcefully broke through the formations.

Clearly, this outsider was someone who had never been to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony before.

Wei Mengrou walked towards the entrance.

She saw a young man with a sharp, unpleasant face, his eyes filled with excitement. He pointed at Wei Mengrou and said, seemingly trying to take credit, “See, Tutor? I told you her luck is different from ordinary bad luck!”

Beside him stood an elder, his cloudy eyes observing Wei Mengrou. After a while, a knowing glint appeared in his eyes.

“Such bad luck… It’s truly unusual.”

He scrutinized the black glow emanating from her body.

His gaze, as if he were looking at a rare creature, made Wei Mengrou’s eyes turn cold. “Who are you?” she asked.

The elder smiled gently. “Young friend, I am the current Crown Prince’s tutor. We’re here on a matter related to the dynasty’s fate.”

“What does the dynasty’s fate have to do with me?” Wei Mengrou frowned.

“The Calamity Body is a mysterious and ominous constitution. It brings misfortune to a dynasty, causing its downfall. The Imperial Advisor’s divination revealed that the Calamity Body is within the Two Polarities Sect, so we’ve come here to investigate,” the tutor explained.

He smiled as he observed the black glow around Wei Mengrou, but deep within his cloudy eyes lay a hint of fear.

However, this was a mission assigned by the Imperial Advisor, so he had to complete it…

They had searched the sect for a day but hadn’t found the Calamity Body. Unexpectedly, this celestial phenomenon had helped them.

If it weren’t for the phenomenon revealing everyone’s luck, they wouldn’t have noticed that this beautiful maid possessed such terrifyingly bad luck.

“Would you be willing to accompany us to the Great Qian Dynasty, young lady? The Imperial Advisor would like to speak with you,” the tutor asked politely, but his tone left no room for refusal.

Wei Mengrou was sensitive to malice and instantly sensed their ill intentions. “I’m not interested,” she said coldly.

She turned to leave.

Suddenly, the Crown Prince’s companion said, “No one dares to touch Mu Zhi’an within the Two Polarities Sect, but the Mu family isn’t within the sect… Are you sure you want to disobey us, young lady?”

Wei Mengrou paused and turned around, her gaze icy.

The tutor, playing the ‘good cop’, said gently, “Young lady, the Imperial Advisor simply wants to know if the dynasty’s fate is related to the Calamity Body. We hope you’ll cooperate and come with us.”

“After all, you wouldn’t want to cause trouble for your loved ones, would you?” he added, a cold glint in his eyes.

If they weren’t within the Two Polarities Sect, there would be no need for such pleasantries. They would have simply subdued her.

Although the Core Formation Realm was powerful, Earthly Immortals could still suppress them.

“Even if you don’t care about yourself, you should consider your young master’s future,” the companion sneered, having found her weakness.

Wei Mengrou looked at them, hesitated for a moment, then opened her mouth, as if about to say something.

The tutor gestured for her to come with them. “Please,” he said with a smile.

After a brief hesitation, Wei Mengrou was about to step forward.

Suddenly, a familiar voice rang out, “I’ve been with her for almost ten years and wouldn’t dare to threaten her. What the hell are you talking about?”

The tutor’s eyes flashed with anger at being so rudely insulted. But seeing the young man behind them, he forced a smile. “Ah, Young friend Mu. You’re just in time. We have some matters to discuss with you.”

“Not interested. Please leave,” Mu Zhi’an said coldly.

He took Wei Mengrou’s hand and, without even looking at the two men, turned to enter the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

At that moment, Lan Mulian and Bai Ruoxi, seemingly sensing the commotion outside, also emerged from the courtyard.

They looked at Mu Zhi’an and Wei Mengrou, then at the two officials, whose expressions were grim, and instantly understood the situation.

“Young friend, this is a matter of great importance. If the dynasty’s fate is lost, the Great Qian Dynasty will be destroyed. Can you bear to see the common people suffer?” the tutor said, trying to guilt-trip Mu Zhi’an.

Mu Zhi’an, holding Wei Mengrou’s hand, glanced at the two men and chuckled. “Then you should ask your Emperor why he’s neglecting his duties, squandering the national treasury on his cultivation. If I were you, I would present a memorial to the throne and urge the old emperor to change his ways, instead of blaming everything on a single person’s luck.”

“You dare question the Emperor?!” the companion exclaimed angrily.

“Isn’t what the Emperor doing stupid?” Mu Zhi’an retorted.

The companion fumed. “I’ll report this to His Majesty—”

Mu Zhi’an interrupted him. “Do you dare swear to the heavens that you don’t think the Emperor is a fool? If you swear, I’ll go to the Great Qian Dynasty with Mengrou.”

“You—”

“You don’t dare swear, which means you also think the Emperor is a fool,” Mu Zhi’an said with a chuckle.

The companion was so enraged that his Spiritual Energy fluctuated, and he almost attacked.

But the tutor remained calm. He placed a hand on the companion’s shoulder, looked at Mu Zhi’an, and said with a smile, “Young friend, I know you’re close to your maid, and we don’t intend to harm her. The Imperial Advisor simply wants to speak with her.”

“Even if you don’t care about yourself, you should consider the future of your clan.”

Lan Mulian raised an eyebrow, about to speak.

Suddenly, a melodious voice came from behind them, “Shouldn’t you be considering the future of the Great Qian Dynasty?”

The voice was calm and gentle, but its tone was undeniably threatening.

Someone dared to threaten the Great Qian Dynasty?!

The tutor narrowed his eyes and turned to look.

In the snowy night, a young woman in a purple dress, her appearance elegant and refined, stood there silently, her gaze fixed on them.

“Who are you?” he asked.

Ye Siyu, the young lady’s aunt in a dark dress, stepped forward and tossed a token at them. “If you have any questions, you can discuss them with my brother-in-law in the Forbidden Zone, if he’s willing to see you.”

The tutor was stunned. Seeing the symbol on the token, his eyes widened in shock. He looked up at Ye Siyu. “People from the Forbidden Zone?”

“The real deal is right there. Don’t look at me,” Ye Siyu said, retracting the token and gesturing towards the young lady.

The tutor hesitated for a moment, then his eyes widened as he stared at Ye Lingxuan. “You’re the Forbidden Zone’s Holy Maiden?!”

He could sense a unique aura emanating from the girl in the purple dress. The girl in the black dress was already a high-ranking individual in the Forbidden Zone. The only person who could be higher than her was the Holy Maiden.

If it were anyone else making such a bold claim, the tutor would have simply laughed it off.

But the Forbidden Zone… They weren’t afraid of the Great Qian Dynasty…

He hadn’t expected the Forbidden Zone’s Holy Maiden to stand up for a mere sect disciple…

The tutor frowned. “Miss Ye, this is a matter of national importance. Please don’t be rash—”

He assumed that Mu Zhi’an and Ye Lingxuan were just close friends within the sect.

Even if she was the Holy Maiden, the Forbidden Zone wouldn’t risk antagonizing the Great Qian Dynasty for an unrelated person.

Ye Lingxuan looked up at Mu Zhi’an and saw him looking back at her. Behind him stood Lan Mulian and Bai Ruoxi, observing the scene.

Clearly, if she weren’t here, Senior Sister Lan would have intervened.

Even without Senior Sister Lan, someone else would have stepped in to drive them away.

She had arrived at the perfect time.

Ignoring the tutor’s attempt at persuasion, Ye Lingxuan looked at Mu Zhi’an with a gentle gaze and said calmly, “Brother Mu and I are Dao Companions.”

Silence descended upon them, the air thickening.

Bai Ruoxi froze, her head tilting slightly as she looked at Mu Zhi’an, her eyes darkening.

Lan Mulian raised an eyebrow, choosing to remain silent.

Ye Siyu, enjoying the reactions of everyone present, looked at them with a knowing glint in her eyes.

Ye Qian didn’t seem surprised. After a brief moment of shock, her eyes even held a hint of excitement.

Under their stunned gazes, Ye Lingxuan turned to the tutor and his companion.

“Is that reason enough?”

Chapter 256: Mu Zhi’an’s True Harem Crisis p1

Boom!

A deafening thunderclap echoed through the Two Polarities Sect, awakening the meditating cultivators.

Many left their residences and looked up at the night sky, only to see a blinding light illuminating the heavens. Lightning flashed through the clouds, illuminating every face.

The Holy Maiden of the Xuanyin Temple, having recently arrived at the Two Polarities Sect, slowly opened her eyes upon hearing the thunder, which sounded like a cultivator undergoing a Heavenly Tribulation. She got up and opened the window.

A charcoal fire burned steadily in the fireplace, filling the room with a slightly stuffy air.

As the window opened, a refreshing breeze carrying the chill of the night entered the room.

Lin Keyu looked up, her beautiful porcelain-like face illuminated by the flickering candlelight. Her long eyelashes trembled slightly as she gazed at the illuminated sky.

Snowflakes drifted down from the heavens, and deep within the clouds, lightning flashed and roared.

She stretched lazily, her slender figure outlined by her thin white robe.

She pulled on a pink and white outer robe, concealing her alluring figure. Her ankle-length skirt was semi-transparent, revealing glimpses of her long, fair legs. Finally, she draped a white cloak over her shoulders and left the room.

Lin Keyu looked up at the sky, her gaze fixed on the vast expanse of tribulation clouds.

“Is someone undergoing a Heavenly Tribulation…?” she murmured.

But even a tribulation couldn’t explain why the sky was as bright as day.

However… this had nothing to do with her.

Seemingly remembering something, she gently touched the storage ring on her finger. A beautiful, translucent necklace materialized.

The Aurora Necklace. It was crafted from Aurora Crystals and two other special Spirit Stones. It could help cultivators enter a meditative state quickly and even calm the mind when facing illusions or temptations.

“Miss, it’s so late. Are you planning to visit Young Master Mu at the Garden of Heavenly Harmony?”

A sweet voice suddenly came from behind her. Her childhood friend, a young maid, had approached her unnoticed and asked with a playful smile.

Lin Keyu turned her head, glanced at the maid’s smiling face, and immediately retorted, “I was just awakened by the thunder!”

The maid’s smile faded as she looked up at the rolling tribulation clouds in the sky. “Such a phenomenon… It doesn’t seem like something a Core Formation cultivator could trigger… Could it be a Nascent Soul expert?”

“If so, who could it be?”

Lin Keyu pondered for a moment. “We can find out easily.”

If she wanted to, she could sense who the tribulation was targeting. As long as they weren’t too far away, she could even pinpoint their location.

Lin Keyu closed her eyes, clasped her hands together in a prayer-like gesture, and looked up slightly.

The Spiritual Energy within her Vessel silently circulated. After a moment, she opened her eyes, her beautiful eyes as gentle and moist as ever.

However, her gaze was filled with uncertainty as she looked towards the Jade Glass Palace. “It’s there…?” she murmured.

The cultivators residing in the Jade Glass Palace were all new disciples. This phenomenon, however, seemed to be caused by at least a Nascent Soul expert.

Could it be that someone among those who joined the Two Polarities Sect less than six months ago had already reached the Nascent Soul Realm…?

The maid followed her gaze, thought for a moment, then said, “Are you talking about the Jade Glass Palace, Miss? If I remember correctly, Young Master Mu is also there.”

Lin Keyu froze.

“Weren’t you worried about how to approach Young Master Mu, Miss? This could be a good excuse,” the maid suggested.

“You mean…” Lin Keyu looked at her maid, her eyes wide.

“Such a commotion… We’re not the only ones who know the phenomenon originated from the Jade Glass Palace. Many cultivators will probably go there to investigate. We can join the crowd and you can give the necklace to your… sweetheart,” the maid winked playfully.

Lin Keyu’s eyes lit up, and she nodded slightly.

Then, realizing the mischievous glint in her maid’s eyes, she swatted her shoulder lightly and scolded, “What are you talking about? I’m just repaying his kindness!”

“I’ve never seen anyone repay kindness by daydreaming and giggling to themselves every day,” the maid chuckled. Before Lin Keyu could get angry, she ran off.

Lin Keyu fell silent, looking at the Aurora Necklace in her hand, then up at the Jade Glass Palace.

Finally, as if making up her mind, she formed a hand seal, summoned her flying sword, and transformed into a pink streak of light, heading towards the Jade Glass Palace.

Meanwhile, at the nine main peaks, the nine peak masters and over twenty elders stood before their respective peaks, their gazes fixed on the illuminated sky.

From the outside, it seemed like an ordinary Heavenly Tribulation, simply amplified due to the cultivator’s high cultivation level.

But it wasn’t a tribulation.

They didn’t know what it was, but the Sect Master’s words had given them a hint.

The sect’s grand formation had two functions. The first was a killing formation. Within this formation, no enemy could hide.

Even a Dao Integration cultivator as powerful as Shang Yanfei would be no match for it.

Within the Two Polarities Sect, the Sect Master was invincible.

The second function was to conceal Heavenly Secrets.

This was the most common function of the formation. The sect’s grand formation was divided into nine smaller formations, and the one within Heavenly Secrets Peak was responsible for concealing Heavenly Secrets.

The Sect Master had ordered them to activate the grand formation, temporarily isolating the Two Polarities Sect from the outside world… The reason was unknown.

However, they would carry out her orders without question.

…

Two Polarities Peak.

Lan Mulian gracefully landed before a pavilion on Two Polarities Peak, her moon-white dress fluttering in the night wind. Her aura was cold and aloof, her face veiled, as if she were accompanied by the moonlight.

“As Master instructed, the nine peak masters and twenty-seven elders have activated the formations of their respective peaks,” Lan Mulian reported.

Shang Yanfei glanced at her, a faint smile on her beautiful face. “Thank you for your hard work. Sit down and have some tea.”

Lan Mulian remained standing, her gaze fixed on her mysterious and intelligent master. “I just sensed that this celestial phenomenon isn’t related to breaking through to the Nascent Soul Realm. And it originated from the Jade Glass Palace. Do you know the reason, Master?”

Shang Yanfei tapped her finger on the table, then picked up her teacup and took a sip.

“Don’t worry about it. It’s just a minor matter.”

Under Lan Mulian’s gaze, Shang Yanfei looked up at the fading white light as the sect’s grand formation activated. “At least, for now, it’s just a minor matter,” she said softly.

Lan Mulian stared at her for a few seconds, her lips parting slightly as if she wanted to say something.

However, Shang Yanfei suddenly chuckled. “If you’re worried about your junior brother, you can go see him directly. You don’t need to confirm his safety through me.”

Lan Mulian said coldly, “You’ve misunderstood, Master. He’s not even at the fourth-grade Core Formation Realm. This phenomenon has nothing to do with him.”

“Just because it’s not related to him doesn’t mean it won’t affect him,” Shang Yanfei said with a smile.

Lan Mulian’s eyes flickered, as if realizing something.

“However, you shouldn’t neglect your own cultivation.”

Shang Yanfei suddenly smiled. “Even if you participate in the Ascension Ceremony, you might not win, you know?”

…

Ye Lingxuan’s room was filled with a faint sandalwood fragrance, mixed with a sweet scent that quickened the heart.

Ye Lingxuan yawned softly, her delicate hand covering her rosy lips, her eyelashes fluttering.

She stretched lazily, the thin blanket slipping from her body, revealing her slender figure in a white robe. Her flushed cheeks, usually radiating innocence, now held a captivating allure.

Her long, flowing hair was slightly disheveled, and her fair neck formed a graceful curve.

“Your aura feels different. Is your inheritance complete?”

Mu Zhi’an reached out to embrace her waist, but Ye Lingxuan was no longer languid. Her face flushed, she instinctively curled her legs and glanced at him. “Brother Mu, after that commotion, we can’t… do anything now.”

The celestial phenomenon had originated from above Dexin Courtyard. Ordinary cultivators might not notice, but those who knew Mu Zhi’an and Ye Lingxuan, especially those aware of her identity as the Reincarnated Empress, might suspect something.

“You’re misunderstanding me, Lingxuan. I just wanted to hug you. Nothing more,” Mu Zhi’an defended himself.

Ye Lingxuan scoffed. “You said the same thing when you entered my room tonight, Brother Mu. And then…?”

“That’s because you’re too charming, Lingxuan. It’s not my fault,” Mu Zhi’an said helplessly.

He wrapped his arms around her waist, feeling the warmth of her skin through her thin robe.

“So it’s my fault?” Ye Lingxuan glanced at him sideways.

“It’s not your fault. It’s your damn charm!” Mu Zhi’an said solemnly, his hand slowly moving upwards.

Ye Lingxuan immediately reacted, swatting his hand away, her face flushed with embarrassment.

Mu Zhi’an clenched his hand, seemingly unsatisfied.

Well… although they weren’t very big, there would be plenty of opportunities in the future.

After this first time, it might not be him initiating the intimacy anymore.

Noticing her annoyed expression, Mu Zhi’an thought for a moment, then said, “Don’t worry, Lingxuan. I can help you achieve your dreams with my hands.”

Ye Lingxuan was stunned for a moment, then she followed his gaze, which was fixed on her chest. Realizing what he meant, she exclaimed, “You pervert! Get out!”

She pushed him lightly, as if trying to push him off the bed.

This girl is turning on me after dual cultivation… Mu Zhi’an raised an eyebrow, pulled her into his embrace, and gently poked her waist with his finger.

“Ah~”

Ye Lingxuan’s body trembled as she struggled to break free from his embrace, but she couldn’t escape the grasp of a fourth-grade Core Formation cultivator. “S-stop it! Let’s go outside and see what’s happening! Aren’t you afraid Sister Ruoxi will come looking for you, Brother Mu?”

She had to resort to using Bai Ruoxi’s name to make him behave.

Mu Zhi’an chuckled and released her.

I’ve said it before, I’ll have to give this little girl a good spanking sooner or later. It seems tonight’s lesson was quite effective.

So what if she’s the Reincarnated Empress?

After spending some more time playfully teasing Ye Lingxuan in her room, watching her flushed face and slightly labored breathing, Mu Zhi’an finally decided to leave. “Lingxuan, it’s getting late. You should rest.”

The celestial phenomenon tonight was undoubtedly caused by Ye Lingxuan. Such a commotion naturally made Mu Zhi’an uneasy.

After all, any cultivator could sense it, let alone Bai Ruoxi and Senior Sister…

He had to be careful and not get carried away…

Despite her earlier complaints about his teasing, when he mentioned leaving, Ye Lingxuan seemed reluctant. She looked up at him immediately.

“I’ll see you off,” she said softly.

“There’s no need. Rest well and focus on refining that Dao Rhyme,” Mu Zhi’an declined politely.

However, Ye Lingxuan was insistent on seeing him off.

Seeing her determination, Mu Zhi’an nodded. “I’ll wait for you to change.”

Ye Lingxuan was a stubborn girl. Despite her gentle demeanor and affectionate words, once she set her mind on something, she wouldn’t change her decision.

However, it wasn’t a long distance from here to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony, so waiting for her wasn’t a problem.

Chapter 255: Ye Lingxuan, the Perfect Innate Spiritual Body! 

Snowflakes drifted outside. The candles flickered, and time passed silently.

Ye Lingxuan wasn’t angry at Mu Zhi’an’s shameless sneak attack. She was more flustered and embarrassed.

Unlike her naive younger sister, Ye Qian, Ye Lingxuan had a vague idea of what Mu Zhi’an was planning when he mentioned staying the night.

In the past, she would have summoned the Desolate Time Lock without hesitation, bound him, and thrown him out.

But now, perhaps because she had just emerged from her meditative state, or perhaps because she had never been so intimate with him before, Ye Lingxuan instinctively clutched her robe.

She turned her head, her eyes widening as she recognized the young man’s face. “Brother Mu, what are you doing here? You said you were just going to protect me while I meditated,” she whispered, her voice tinged with annoyance.

Mu Zhi’an’s chest pressed against her back, his arms wrapped tightly around her waist. He whispered in her ear, “It’s snowing outside, Lingxuan. It’s so cold. Can you really bear to let me meditate on the floor?”

“You… you can meditate on the bed, but not like this…” Ye Lingxuan’s face was flushed, her head lowered as she squirmed in his embrace, trying to break free.

However, her half-hearted attempt was futile. Mu Zhi’an didn’t let go, holding her even closer.

“It’s cold. It’s warmer to sleep together,” he said seriously.

“Cultivators don’t feel cold…” Ye Lingxuan retorted, glaring at him playfully. However, under his intense gaze, she quickly averted her eyes, unable to meet his.

Seeing this, Mu Zhi’an boldly tried to make his next move. Suddenly, as if realizing something, Ye Lingxuan grabbed his hand, her eyes filled with a mixture of emotions as she looked up at him.

Mu Zhi’an tried again, but her grip tightened, preventing him from moving any further.

He looked at the beautiful young lady in his arms, his movements ceasing.

His gaze, initially filled with affection, gradually turned into disappointment and resignation.

Then, as if losing all his strength, he released his hold on her waist and sighed softly. “I’m sorry, I was too hasty tonight.”

Ye Lingxuan was stunned, looking at him with confusion in her beautiful eyes.

Mu Zhi’an got out of bed and said softly, “The Ascension Ceremony is approaching. I believe the Sect Master has her own plans for ensuring the Eastern Realm’s victory.”

“Being so intimate with you at this critical moment might make you think I’m only here for the ninth life’s Spiritual Energy, that I came to you tonight because of the Ascension Ceremony.”

He turned to look at Ye Lingxuan, who was now sitting up on the bed, her legs tucked beneath her. He smiled gently. “To be honest, when you asked me to come tonight, I did have some inappropriate thoughts. However, it has nothing to do with the Ascension Ceremony or the ninth life’s Spiritual Energy.”

He gently stroked her hair and said, “I’m simply attracted to you, Lingxuan. You’re very charming.”

Ye Lingxuan instinctively clutched her robe, her eyes welling up as she whispered, “Brother Mu…”

As Mu Zhi’an had guessed, she didn’t dislike intimacy. She wasn’t even against being intimate with him tonight.

The reason she had resisted his advances was likely due to her shyness and his earlier mention of the ninth life’s Spiritual Energy.

Unlike Yao Meng, Ye Lingxuan was a girl who valued rituals. Intimacy after their relationship deepened was acceptable, but mixing it with ‘ninth life’s Spiritual Energy’ and the Ascension Ceremony, matters with clear objectives, made her feel conflicted.

She wanted their relationship to be pure, not based on a goal like obtaining the ninth life’s Spiritual Energy.

“Lingxuan, do you think I’m doing this because of what the Reincarnated Empress said?” Mu Zhi’an suddenly asked.

Ye Lingxuan lowered her head, remaining silent.

He took her hand, placed it on his chest, looked down at her beautiful face, and whispered, “A charming girl like you shouldn’t doubt yourself, Lingxuan.”

“Can’t you feel something from my heartbeat?”

Feeling his heartbeat beneath her palm and hearing his gentle words, the conflict within Ye Lingxuan’s heart began to melt away. A warmth spread through her body.

Mu Zhi’an pulled her into his embrace and whispered in her ear, “If you don’t want our feelings to be ‘tainted’ by other intentions, I can give you the ninth life’s Spiritual Energy another time.”

Ye Lingxuan blushed and murmured, “Wouldn’t that mean I have to… with you again, Brother Mu…?”

“Don’t you like it?” Mu Zhi’an asked, looking down at her beautiful face.

Under his loving gaze and sweet words, feeling his heartbeat and the warmth of his embrace, Ye Lingxuan’s last trace of hesitation finally disappeared. She shyly turned her head away.

The candlelight flickered, illuminating her delicate and blushing face.

Mu Zhi’an gently caressed her cheek, lifted her chin, gazed at her increasingly beautiful face, and lowered his head, kissing her soft, rosy lips.

Ye Lingxuan closed her eyes, her hands fidgeting, her long eyelashes catching the candlelight, trembling slightly as time passed.

Slowly, her arms wrapped around his neck, her breathing quickening, her face flushing deeper.

After a while, Mu Zhi’an released her lips. Ye Lingxuan gasped for air, her usual elegance replaced by a captivating allure.

Mu Zhi’an gently pushed her back onto the bed.

He pulled the blanket aside and, under her hazy gaze, lowered his head, claiming her lips once more, his kisses slowly trailing downwards.

After some time, Mu Zhi’an suddenly stopped, his gaze fixed on the young lady, lost in thought.

Ye Lingxuan’s hands rested on his chest. Seeing him motionless, she slowly opened her eyes, her gaze filled with desire. “Brother Mu…?” she murmured.

Her feet rubbed against each other, and she looked at him with longing in her eyes, wanting to say something but feeling too shy.

“Aren’t you going to continue?” she finally asked, her voice barely a whisper.

“I’m wondering how to give you the ninth life’s Spiritual Energy,” Mu Zhi’an said, looking at her flushed face, a sense of confusion washing over him.

Ye Lingxuan: “…”

Although his words were a mood killer, she was also confused.

The Reincarnated Empress had stored the ninth life’s Spiritual Energy within Mu Zhi’an’s body. According to her, the energy would be enhanced within the Innate Celestial Furnace, and once it was returned to Ye Lingxuan, her inheritance would be complete.

However, how were they supposed to transfer it?

Mu Zhi’an couldn’t control the ninth life’s Spiritual Energy, so he didn’t know how to give it to her.

“Maybe… we should try a few more times?” Mu Zhi’an suggested after a moment of thought.

“Huh…?” Ye Lingxuan asked softly, confused.

Then, noticing the intensity in his gaze, she understood what he meant and immediately shook her head. “No—”

Her voice caught in her throat. She frowned slightly, her cheeks flushed, her arms tightening around his neck as she tilted her head back, her toes curling against the bed.

…

Time passed silently.

The Innate Celestial Furnace’s celestial vessel was working at full speed, seemingly merging with Ye Lingxuan’s Vessel. Within the Innate Celestial Furnace, a golden energy filled with vitality silently flowed into Ye Lingxuan’s Vessel.

The Reincarnated Empress’s ninth life’s Spiritual Energy!

This energy was different from the previous eight traces she had inherited. It seemed to have evolved within the Innate Celestial Furnace, containing a trace of Dao Rhyme.

It was the Dao Rhyme formed by the combination of the Seed of Dao Realization and the Soul Returning Pill she had consumed earlier.

Within Ye Lingxuan’s Vessel, the ninth life’s Spiritual Energy became the leader, the nine traces arranged in a pyramid formation, with the newly acquired energy at the top.

Ye Lingxuan’s furrowed brows relaxed as she felt an unprecedented sense of ease and comfort. She couldn’t tell if it was due to the nine traces of Spiritual Energy or simply Mu Zhi’an’s presence…

At that moment, images from her past lives flashed through her mind.

She saw herself wandering alone in the ancient world through nine lifetimes, seeking resonance with different Dao.

This was the Reincarnation Dao.

Ye Lingxuan slowly opened her eyes, her vision blurry for a moment. The images disappeared, and all she could see was Mu Zhi’an’s handsome face and his tender gaze.

She closed her eyes, savoring his warmth and the power of the nine traces of Spiritual Energy within her Vessel.

In addition, the refined energy from the Imperial-Grade Medicinal Herb also silently flowed into her Reincarnation Vessel.

“The Spiritual Energy within my Vessel has increased significantly, and my physique has also improved greatly. And that Dao Rhyme… The laws of heaven and earth shouldn’t allow me to comprehend Dao Rhyme at this level. The reason it’s within my body now must be because Brother Mu’s Innate Celestial Furnace is concealing it from the heavens…”

“The gap between the Core Formation Realm and the Nascent Soul Realm is a significant hurdle. Many participants in the Ascension Ceremony are at the higher levels of the Core Formation Realm. If I can comprehend this Dao Rhyme, I should be able to win…”

Ye Lingxuan closed her eyes, trying to fully refine the Dao Rhyme and comprehend its secrets, something that even Nascent Soul cultivators might not be able to achieve.

“Dao Integration means merging with one of the three Dao: Heaven, Earth, or Human. This Dao Rhyme doesn’t belong to any of them. I need to make my own choice.”

“My Dao is more suited to the Heavenly Dao, but if I merge with it, I’ll be controlled by it…”

“The path of the Heavenly Dao is a dead end.”

As Ye Lingxuan thought this, she suddenly felt as if she had grasped something. Her Spiritual Energy circulated through her body, cycle after cycle. Mu Zhi’an’s energy continued to flow into her Vessel, and the seemingly insurmountable obstacle before her seemed to be illuminated by a ray of light piercing through the darkness.

It was the fourth path, guided by the Heavenly Dao’s energy within Mu Zhi’an!

And the end of this fourth path was still the Heavenly Dao.

Ye Lingxuan slowly raised her finger and ultimately chose the Heavenly Dao.

But it wasn’t the Heavenly Dao of this world.

Meanwhile, Mu Zhi’an also felt a trace of Spiritual Energy silently merging with their combined Vessel.

It was just a wisp of energy, yet it filled him with an unprecedented sense of exhilaration, as if his entire Vessel had come alive, rotating rapidly.

It was the feedback from Ye Lingxuan’s nine traces of Spiritual Energy.

This energy instantly filled his Vessel, pushing him to the peak of the fourth-grade Core Formation Realm!

He was only a step away from breaking through!

I’ve always been the one giving, and now I’m actually receiving something in return… Mu Zhi’an thought, looking at the blushing Ye Lingxuan with her eyes closed.

Ye Lingxuan moaned softly and slowly opened her eyes, her gaze filled with affection as she looked at him.

Boom!

A deafening roar echoed through the silent night of the Two Polarities Sect.

Faint white lights, like stars, appeared in the night sky, illuminating the darkness as if some powerful being had awakened.

In a distant courtyard, Regina, the exotic beauty, looked up at the illuminated sky, her eyes flickering. “Someone has comprehended a trace of Dao Rhyme…?” she murmured.

Under the current restrictions imposed by the laws of heaven and earth, someone had actually comprehended a trace of Dao Rhyme and even triggered a celestial phenomenon…?

For some reason, she couldn’t help but think of a certain someone.

…

Two Polarities Peak.

Shang Yanfei tapped her finger on the table and looked towards the Jade Glass Palace, a faint smile curving her lips.

“Impressive…” Her voice held genuine admiration, but it was unclear who she was referring to.

“Who are you talking about, Master?” Lan Mulian asked, holding a white Go stone, her gaze fixed on the beautiful woman in a black dress sitting opposite her.

“It’s nothing. Don’t worry about it,” Shang Yanfei replied casually. “Go and inform the peak masters to activate the sect’s grand formation.”

“Someone is getting restless.”

Chapter 254: Returning the Rebirth Spiritual Energy p2

“This doesn’t seem to be a cultivator’s tribulation. It’s more like the tribulation clouds triggered by refining a pill or something…”

Many cultivators had gathered near the Book Pavilion, their gazes fixed on the Jade Glass Palace, discussing the tribulation clouds in the sky.

“The aura is different from a pill’s tribulation clouds. It shouldn’t be a pill,” another disciple with a keen eye said.

Suddenly, someone in the crowd realized something. “It’s an Artifact Spirit! Someone has refined a divine artifact and awakened its Artifact Spirit, triggering a Heavenly Tribulation!”

This explanation made sense to many.

Mu Zhi’an’s eyes also lit up with understanding.

This explained why the tribulation was different from both a pill tribulation and a cultivator’s advancement tribulation. It was the Heavenly Tribulation triggered by refining a weapon or other divine artifact!

It must be the work of an Artifact Spirit Master from Metamorphic Jewel Peak, right? Mu Zhi’an guessed.

Artifact Spirit Masters were rare individuals who could awaken the spirits within weapons and magical treasures. The peak master of Metamorphic Jewel Peak specialized in this Dao, so Mu Zhi’an’s guess wasn’t unfounded.

This sudden Heavenly Tribulation piqued the curiosity of many cultivators. They flew towards the Jade Glass Palace on their swords.

Mu Zhi’an followed the crowd. He was also curious about who had awakened an Artifact Spirit powerful enough to trigger a Heavenly Tribulation.

Weapons and magical treasures were categorized into different grades. To trigger a Heavenly Tribulation, the Artifact Spirit had to be at least fifth-grade or higher.

It was rare for a cultivator to possess even a single Artifact Spirit in their lifetime.

As they arrived at the Jade Glass Palace, they saw a slender figure in a purple dress facing the Heavenly Tribulation alone in the sky.

She stood gracefully, her purple dress billowing in the wind. A thin ribbon cinched around her waist, highlighting her slender figure. Her long, flowing hair cascaded down her back, illuminated by the flickering lightning, revealing her youthful and beautiful face.

“Junior Sister Lingxuan?!”

Recognizing the young lady, many disciples and even some of the scions from the Primordial Clans were stunned.

The sect disciples naturally recognized Ye Lingxuan, one of the most beautiful women in the Two Polarities Sect.

However, she was a disciple of Dao Peak, wasn’t she? Why did she know how to awaken Artifact Spirits?

The cultivators who knew her identity were filled with admiration and a hint of melancholy.

They were all scions of the Primordial Clans. Even if they didn’t know Ye Lingxuan personally, their elders had often mentioned her.

They admired her for her breathtaking beauty, but they also felt a sense of melancholy. This seemingly flawless young lady possessed extraordinary talent and a powerful background. Now that her abilities were becoming apparent, pursuing her, let alone winning her heart, seemed like a distant dream.

In the past two days, many disciples and even scions from the Primordial Clans had tried to approach Ye Lingxuan, their gazes lingering on her as they greeted her.

She would always respond with a polite smile.

However, those who tried to get closer would find a chilling coldness beneath her polite facade.

“Junior Sister Lingxuan is already so talented, and now she even knows how to awaken Artifact Spirits… Truly remarkable,” a cultivator said with genuine admiration, looking at the slender figure in the sky.

“She was only at the Foundation Establishment Realm when she joined the sect, and now she’s already a Core Formation cultivator. It’s hard to say who will win the Ascension Ceremony.”

“And she even awakened an Artifact Spirit before the ceremony. This will definitely give her an advantage,” another cultivator sighed.

A senior sister saw Ye Lingxuan descending from the sky after overcoming the Heavenly Tribulation and said with a smile, “Congratulations, Junior Sister Lingxuan. Awakening an Artifact Spirit will certainly be helpful in the Ascension Ceremony.”

Ye Lingxuan smiled demurely. “Thank you, Senior Sister. I was just lucky. Awakening an Artifact Spirit was much more difficult than I imagined.”

The senior sister shook her head. “Don’t be so modest, Junior Sister. Luck has nothing to do with it. It requires a keen sensitivity to Spiritual Energy.”

“By the way, what did you awaken? Why does it seem so small?”

Her gaze fell upon the small box in Ye Lingxuan’s hand.

Everyone noticed that the Artifact Spirit she had just awakened seemed to be contained within that box.

What kind of magical treasure could fit in such a small box?

“I see you’re holding two boxes, Miss Ye… Did you awaken two Artifact Spirits?” a handsome young man suddenly asked.

Many gazes shifted to the speaker, surprise flickering in their eyes.

“The current young master of the Eastern Realm’s Lan family is also here?”

“This Ascension Ceremony is a major event. Although the Lan family’s young master isn’t participating, his younger sister is a disciple here…”

“Senior Sister Lan probably won’t participate, right?”

“Who knows… But if she does, this Ascension Ceremony will be interesting.”

Mu Zhi’an listened to the whispers around him, glancing at the young man who had spoken, surprise in his eyes.

Lan Mulian’s older brother… So that’s my future brother-in-law?

It seems this Ascension Ceremony has truly caught the attention of the Primordial Clans… Mu Zhi’an thought to himself.

Then, a sect disciple in the crowd spoke up, “If you awakened two Artifact Spirits, Junior Sister Lingxuan, would you be willing to sell one?”

His words immediately stirred excitement among the others.

“I’ll offer 500,000 Spirit Stones!”

“One million Spirit Stones!”

Voices rose from the crowd, all expressing interest in the Artifact Spirits Ye Lingxuan had just awakened.

Fifth-grade Artifact Spirits were incredibly rare. Awakening Artifact Spirits was different from refining pills. Even a high-grade Artifact Spirit Master might not be able to awaken a fifth-grade or higher Artifact Spirit.

And a magical treasure with an Artifact Spirit could often have unexpected effects in battle.

However, Ye Lingxuan simply shook her head and refused. “I’m sorry, but I only awakened one Artifact Spirit. The other is just a failed attempt.”

She nodded politely at the crowd and turned to enter the Jade Glass Palace, leaving behind a beautiful silhouette.

As the others sighed with disappointment, Mu Zhi’an quietly slipped away from the crowd, intending to return to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

Suddenly, he heard Ye Lingxuan’s voice transmission in his ear, “Come to my room tonight, Brother Mu.”

Mu Zhi’an, who was about to leave, paused and looked up in surprise.

Ye Lingxuan turned to look at him, a bright smile on her beautiful face. She winked playfully and continued through voice transmission, “Did you really think you could hide your aura from me, Brother Mu?”

After a moment of astonishment, Mu Zhi’an understood.

It was incredibly difficult to conceal his aura from her, given her Innate Spiritual Body.

I’ll have to be careful after we get married… Lingxuan is already intelligent, and with her Innate Spiritual Body… she’ll be a master at catching me red-handed.

Of course, that was a problem for the future. He would worry about it later.

He was more curious about why she had suddenly invited him to her room.

And at night, no less.

Although he had a vague idea…

…

That night.

Candlelight flickered, casting a warm glow over Ye Lingxuan’s room.

Having just taken a bath, Ye Lingxuan wore a loose white robe, her long hair cascading down to her waist, a few strands framing her delicate face, enhancing her beauty.

She sat on the edge of the bed, her eyes downcast, her bare feet dangling in the air.

The window silently opened, a cold breeze blowing into the room, causing the candle flames to flicker. Mu Zhi’an’s silhouette appeared in the doorway.

Ye Lingxuan looked up and, seeing the young man climbing in through the window, she couldn’t help but giggle. “Why are you climbing through the window, Brother Mu?”

Mu Zhi’an smiled sheepishly. “I just wanted to make sure Siyu and Qian’er weren’t in your room.”

“They wouldn’t chase you away. There’s no need to be so sneaky,” Ye Lingxuan mumbled, then took out a delicate box from her storage ring and handed it to him.

Don’t tell me she’s actually proposing… ? Mu Zhi’an thought to himself, already having a guess.

“The Artifact Spirit treasure you awakened today?” he asked, looking up at her.

Ye Lingxuan nodded slightly. “It’s made from the Holy Lightning Rock you gave me, Brother Mu. But she was the one who crafted it. I only awakened the Artifact Spirit.”

She glanced at the tall and beautiful woman in a white robe standing silently in the corner.

“A magical treasure crafted by the Reincarnated Empress…?” Mu Zhi’an said in surprise.

He took the box and opened it.

Whoa, it really is a wedding ring…?

Inside the box was a ring with a deep purple gemstone. It seemed to be inlaid with other precious materials, forming intricate patterns.

Ye Lingxuan smiled sweetly. “You won’t reject me, will you, Brother Mu?”

She raised her hand, showing him the identical ring on her finger.

Although she was smiling, Mu Zhi’an could sense a hint of anxiety in her eyes.

If I refuse now, will she tie me up with the Desolate Time Lock…?

“In that case, I accept your proposal, Lingxuan,” Mu Zhi’an said, nodding.

“It’s just a gift, not a proposal!” Ye Lingxuan retorted, glaring at him playfully.

Then, seeing him put on the ring, a faint smile appeared on her face.

“Thank you. It must have cost a lot of Spirit Stones and treasures,” Mu Zhi’an said softly, gently caressing her cheek.

“It’s nothing compared to the help you’ve given me, Brother Mu,” Ye Lingxuan replied, shaking her head.

However, judging from the aura emanating from the ring, Mu Zhi’an could tell it was a sixth-grade Artifact Spirit.

He could only imagine how much effort and resources she had spent on it.

After marveling at the young lady’s wealth, he sniffed the air and looked at her. “Did you take a bath?”

A faint floral fragrance lingered around her, indicating she had just bathed.

Calling me over late at night to give me a ring and taking a bath… It’s hard not to let my imagination run wild… Mu Zhi’an looked at her intently.

“Mm… mm.”

Sensing his gaze, the usually calm and collected Ye Lingxuan felt a little flustered and instinctively averted her eyes, turning her head slightly, leaving only her delicate profile visible to Mu Zhi’an.

After a moment, Ye Lingxuan managed to suppress her chaotic thoughts and looked up at him, trying to sound calm. “It’s getting late, Brother Mu. You should go back and rest.”

The Reincarnated Empress in the corner spoke up, “Aren’t you going to ask for the Rebirth Spiritual Energy back?”

Ye Lingxuan glared at her. “Don’t talk!”

The cold and emotionless woman remained silent.

Mu Zhi’an glanced at the Reincarnated Empress, then back at Ye Lingxuan.

For some reason, the usually elegant and demure young lady seemed alluring tonight. Her eyes were downcast, her gaze flickering with a hint of nervousness, as if she was apprehensive about something.

Mu Zhi’an placed a hand on her shoulder and said softly, “It’s late, and I haven’t meditated in your room before, Lingxuan. Why don’t I stay here tonight?”

Ye Lingxuan looked up at him suspiciously. “I can’t trust your words, Brother Mu.”

“The Ascension Ceremony is approaching. Even I’m going to cultivate diligently so I don’t get eliminated too early,” Mu Zhi’an explained seriously.

The mention of the Ascension Ceremony reminded Ye Lingxuan of the fact that one of her Spiritual Energy traces was still within Mu Zhi’an’s body. She couldn’t help but glance at him.

“I-I want to meditate tonight, not cultivate.”

Awakening the Artifact Spirit had drained some of her mental energy. Meditating would allow her to fully recover by the next day, so she wasn’t lying.

“Perfect! I’ll protect you while you meditate,” Mu Zhi’an volunteered.

Ye Lingxuan hesitated, looking at him for a moment.

Finally, under his sincere gaze, she murmured, “Alright.”

After Ye Lingxuan lay down in bed, Mu Zhi’an, true to his word, didn’t try anything funny. He sat beside her and diligently cultivated.

Relieved, Ye Lingxuan gradually entered a meditative state.

After some time, Mu Zhi’an quietly opened his eyes. “It’s cold. I’m going to take a hot bath,” he murmured.

He glanced at Ye Lingxuan, who seemed to be deep in meditation, then got out of bed and walked behind the screen, where he saw a steaming bathtub.

It was filled with fragrant flower petals, indicating that Ye Lingxuan had just taken a bath.

Mu Zhi’an quickly undressed and, after soaking in the bathtub for a while, he dried himself with the towel hanging on the screen.

As he stepped out from behind the screen, he noticed that the Reincarnated Empress, who had been silently standing in the corner, had disappeared.

It seems Lingxuan was right. The Reincarnated Empress does have emotions. At least, she’s still embarrassed by such scenes…? Mu Zhi’an guessed.

Lost in thought, he lifted the blanket and slipped into bed, wrapping his arms around Ye Lingxuan’s slender waist through her thin white robe.

In this cold winter night, only Lingxuan’s embrace could warm his heart.

Ye Lingxuan frowned slightly. Even in her meditative state, she could still feel the warmth of his familiar aura enveloping her, and his hands, initially hesitant, becoming bolder beneath the covers.

She pursed her lips and slowly opened her eyes.

Chapter 254: Returning the Rebirth Spiritual Energy p1

Leaving the Garden of Heavenly Harmony, Mu Zhi’an flew on his sword towards Shaoyue Courtyard. As he approached the courtyard’s main building, he saw a woman stepping out.

She wore a dark gold jacket over a white dress, her long, flowing hair meticulously styled. A golden hairpin adorned her hair, and a beautiful necklace hung around her neck, highlighting her fair skin. She wore black embroidered shoes, her figure tall and alluring.

Her attire was luxurious and elegant, instantly revealing her royal background.

Most women wouldn’t be able to pull off such an extravagant look, but it seemed perfectly natural on her, enhancing her beauty and grace.

Mu Zhi’an recognized her from their previous encounter.

It was Princess Yongning, the Princess Royal of the Great Qian Dynasty.

As expected of someone born into royalty, only the elegant Princess Royal could carry herself with such grace in such attire.

Two maids accompanied her. Although their clothes were simple, Mu Zhi’an could sense their restrained auras. They were likely at the Core Formation Realm, carefully chosen to protect Yongning.

An elder also stood nearby, presumably responsible for secretly guarding the princess.

As Mu Zhi’an observed her, Princess Yongning seemed to sense his gaze. She looked up, her eyes sparkling, a charming smile curving her lips. Her voice was as clear and melodious as jade chimes. “Young Master Mu, long time no see.”

“Indeed, Princess Yongning. It’s been several months,” Mu Zhi’an replied with a smile.

Princess Yongning observed him for a moment, then smiled brightly. “Your aura seems much stronger than before, Young Master Mu. It seems you’ve reached the Core Formation Realm. Congratulations.”

“I was just lucky to find my Dao,” Mu Zhi’an said modestly, shaking his head.

Reaching the Core Formation Realm required finding one’s ‘Dao’, and the ‘Dao’ Mu Zhi’an had found was to strengthen his physical body.

Although he wasn’t yet strong enough to defeat enemies with his physical strength alone, most cultivators at the same level wouldn’t be able to withstand a single punch from him at close range.

Even Yao Meng couldn’t handle it.

Well… literally.

“Are you here to see Pavilion Master Yan, Princess Yongning?” Mu Zhi’an asked, changing the subject.

Princess Yongning nodded slightly. “The Ascension Ceremony is just a few days away. I have some matters I’d like to discuss with Pavilion Master Yan.”

“What a coincidence. I also have some things to ask her,” Mu Zhi’an said with a smile.

He couldn’t help but admire the elegant princess.

Her beauty was one thing, but she was also intelligent and well-informed. She even knew that he had reached the Core Formation Realm… This meant she had her own sources within the Two Polarities Sect.

Or perhaps, Princess Yongning was also a Core Formation cultivator and possessed a special constitution that allowed her to sense his cultivation level.

“There was quite a commotion at the Jade Pool Holy Land a few days ago. I hope to invite you for tea sometime, Young Master Mu,” Princess Yongning said with a charming smile.

“I’ll definitely make time,” Mu Zhi’an replied, nodding with a smile.

He wasn’t just being polite. He was genuinely interested in the princess. It wouldn’t hurt to get to know her better in the future.

As he thought about this, Mu Zhi’an entered Shaoyue Courtyard.

In the main hall, Yan Ruyu was reading a thin book, her alluring figure concealed by a loose black robe. A cup of steaming tea sat on the table beside her.

Seemingly sensing his presence, she looked up. Mu Zhi’an smiled brightly.

“Pavilion Master Yan, I hope my sudden visit isn’t a disturbance.”

Yan Ruyu chuckled. “Considering the commotion you caused today, I expected you to come see me.”

She poured him a cup of tea, gestured for him to sit down, and asked, “What brings you here today?”

Mu Zhi’an’s smile faded slightly. He wrote the characters he had seen in the Sword Palace and the Forbidden Zone on a piece of paper.

“I was hoping you could tell me which dynasty these characters belong to, Pavilion Master Yan,” he said.

Yan Ruyu glanced at the characters, her eyebrows raising slightly. “What a coincidence.”

“Yongning just visited and asked about the same thing.”

“Princess Yongning also asked about these characters?” Mu Zhi’an asked curiously.

Yan Ruyu shook her head. “She wasn’t asking about these specific characters, but about the Calamity Body constitution.”

Mu Zhi’an’s eyes flickered. “Why would she ask about that?”

“Some ancient texts mention that a cultivator with the Calamity Body constitution would appear before the decline of every dynasty. Princess Yongning came here because of that,” Yan Ruyu explained.

“However, a single person’s luck shouldn’t be able to affect the fate of an entire dynasty. Even if the Great Qian Dynasty were to fall, it would be because the current Emperor is obsessed with cultivation and refuses to relinquish power,” she added, shaking her head with a chuckle.

The Great Qian Dynasty held a high position in the Eastern Realm, but since emperors couldn’t achieve immortality, a new crown prince would inherit the throne every hundred years.

However, the current emperor was obsessed with cultivation and refused to delegate authority. He had spent countless treasures from the national treasury on expensive cultivation resources. In a sense, the Great Qian Dynasty’s decline was largely due to the current emperor’s actions.

The notion of a Calamity Body causing a dynasty’s downfall was likely unfounded.

Yan Ruyu paused, then continued, “But this has nothing to do with Yongning. She doesn’t hold any power in the court. She was just curious and wasn’t targeting your maid.”

Wei Mengrou’s bad luck was unusual. The peak masters who had witnessed it knew this well. Seeing Mu Zhi’an’s silence, Yan Ruyu guessed he was thinking about his maid.

Mu Zhi’an snapped out of his thoughts and nodded slightly. “Do you know which dynasty these two sets of characters belong to, Pavilion Master Yan?”

Yan Ruyu shook her head gently. “I’ve never seen them before.”

Mu Zhi’an felt a pang of disappointment.

It made sense. Cultivators usually didn’t concern themselves with worldly matters. The rise and fall of dynasties had little impact on the Two Polarities Sect. As long as the Great Qian Dynasty didn’t do anything against the heavens, the Two Polarities Sect would maintain its neutrality.

Unwilling to give up, Mu Zhi’an asked, “I’ve heard that a person with the Calamity Body would appear before the fall of every dynasty. Isn’t that a bit too coincidental?”

Yan Ruyu nodded slightly. “It is quite a coincidence, but… I’ve never heard of a single person’s luck affecting an entire dynasty’s fate. Logically, if someone’s bad luck was that severe, the heavens would have struck them down already.”

“The heavens would punish someone for having bad luck?”

Mu Zhi’an was stunned. The heavens were meddling too much, weren’t they? What could someone do if they were born unlucky? And now, they would be punished for being too unlucky?

Yan Ruyu shook her head. “It’s highly unlikely for the heavens to intervene. Throughout the history of the Nine Realms, there have only been a few such cases. Unless, as you said, the person’s bad luck is so severe that it affects an entire dynasty’s fate, then the heavens might take action.”

That shouldn’t be related to Mengrou. If her bad luck was truly that severe, the heavens would have already intervened… Mu Zhi’an felt relieved.

“Do you have any books about the heavens’ punishments, Pavilion Master?” he asked.

“I believe I’ve seen some in the Book Pavilion. If you’re interested, I can retrieve them for you later,” Yan Ruyu said with a smile.

“Thank you, Pavilion Master,” Mu Zhi’an said gratefully.

Yan Ruyu continued, “The rise and fall of the Great Qian Dynasty has nothing to do with us. If you encounter any problems, feel free to discuss them with me. There’s no need to be polite.”

Not only is she knowledgeable, but she also cares deeply for her disciples… Mu Zhi’an looked at the elegant and well-endowed Pavilion Master, feeling a surge of gratitude.

“It seems you’ve broken through your bottleneck, Pavilion Master?” he asked, changing the subject.

A charming smile appeared on Yan Ruyu’s beautiful face. “Thanks to the Jade Empress, I’ve already broken through. There won’t be any problems for a while.”

Mu Zhi’an nodded with relief. “That’s good… If you need any help in the future, I’ll do my best to assist you.”

Yan Ruyu looked at Mu Zhi’an meaningfully, her eyes filled with a mixture of conflicted emotions. She smiled and nodded. “I believe there will be opportunities in the future.”

This disciple respected her so much, yet she had been preoccupied with his Innate Celestial Furnace… Thinking back, she felt ashamed of herself.

Putting those thoughts aside, Yan Ruyu changed the subject. “The Jade Empress’s return is of great significance to our Eastern Realm. You can ask her directly about any questions you have regarding cultivation techniques.”

She paused, then continued, “She’s still within your body, right?”

Mu Zhi’an nodded slightly. “She needs to absorb Spiritual Energy from my Innate Celestial Furnace.”

Hearing this, Yan Ruyu suddenly remembered something. After a moment of hesitation, she observed him carefully and said, “Logically, the Jade Empress shouldn’t be able to reconstruct her Vessel with her depleted Spiritual Energy.”

“Unless… she receives assistance from external Spiritual Energy.”

“Could it be that you and her…”

Her gaze shifted towards Mu Zhi’an meaningfully.

Although she didn’t finish her sentence, her implication was clear: Did you dual cultivate with the Jade Empress?

Mu Zhi’an didn’t hide anything from the Pavilion Master he ‘respected’. “The situation was urgent, so…”

Even though she had been mentally prepared, hearing his confirmation still shocked Yan Ruyu. Surprise and understanding filled her eyes.

It seems it wasn’t just me. Even the Jade Empress…

No wonder the Jade Empress had bestowed opportunities upon the peak masters. There was another reason behind it…

In other words, Yao Meng wanted to keep him all to herself.

Yan Ruyu’s eyes flickered as she looked at Mu Zhi’an meaningfully.

Then, she suddenly asked, “When did you meet the Xuanyin Temple’s Holy Maiden? Her accompanying elder came to see me today, inquiring about your whereabouts.”

Mu Zhi’an’s heart skipped a beat. “Miss Lin is also at the Two Polarities Sect?”

“She arrived yesterday, but the people from the Xuanyin Temple are keeping a low profile, so not many noticed,” Yan Ruyu replied.

Mu Zhi’an nodded slightly. “I understand. I’ll visit her later. She probably wants to thank me for saving her in the Sword Palace.”

As he expected, Lin Keyu was a rather shy young lady. Even if she wanted to give him the Aurora Crystal necklace, she would do it privately. She wouldn’t do it in public. Otherwise, she would have come to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony today.

I wonder when the Holy Maiden from the Jade Pool will come and what kind of accessory she’ll make with the Aurora Crystal… Mu Zhi’an thought to himself.

After a ‘heart-to-heart’ conversation with Yan Ruyu in Shaoyue Courtyard, Mu Zhi’an stood up to leave.

Just as he was about to depart, he seemed to remember something. He took out a red, glowing crystal from his storage ring and handed it to Yan Ruyu.

“I realized I haven’t repaid you for all the help you’ve given me, Pavilion Master Yan. I know this Blood Condensing Stone is far from enough to express my gratitude, but please accept it as a token of my appreciation.”

Yan Ruyu looked at the special Spirit Stone in his hand, surprised. “A Blood Condensing Stone? Where did you get this?”

“A kind person in the Sword Palace gave it to me…” Mu Zhi’an said with a smile. “I found it by chance.”

Yan Ruyu hesitated for a moment, then accepted the Blood Condensing Stone with a smile.

After all, it was a gift from her disciple. Refusing it would hurt his feelings.

Mu Zhi’an bowed and bid farewell to the elegant and knowledgeable woman.

Leaving Shaoyue Courtyard, he looked up at the snowy scenery, his gaze lingering on Two Polarities Peak, a thoughtful expression on his face.

He wouldn’t give Senior Sister any special Spirit Stones this time. However, he still needed to find time to visit her in the next few days and maintain their relationship…

Lan Mulian was an intelligent woman. It wouldn’t be good if he messed things up after giving her a gift.

As Mu Zhi’an thought about this, he was about to return to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony on his sword when he suddenly noticed dark, heavy clouds gathering above the Jade Glass Palace, accompanied by rumbling thunder.

The sky darkened, and many cultivators instinctively looked towards the Jade Glass Palace. Mu Zhi’an’s gaze was also drawn to the tribulation clouds.

Could it be that someone had advanced in their cultivation and triggered a Heavenly Tribulation?

Boom!

Mu Zhi’an’s eyes flickered. He could tell that this Heavenly Tribulation was different from the ones cultivators faced when advancing in their cultivation.