Category: It turns out, they are the protagonists

Chapter 232: Visitors from the Southern Wilderness p2

Today, the Two Polarities Sect wasn’t just hosting talented disciples from the Eastern Realm. Prodigies from the Western Regions, Yu State, Qing State, and other realms, along with their accompanying elders, had also arrived.

As Regina’s gaze swept over them, their Primordial Spirits were completely exposed to her. Their future actions, their past, and even events that would happen in the near future, were all laid bare before her.

“There are indeed many talented individuals participating in the Ascension Ceremony, but I haven’t seen many from the Two Polarities Sect. Are they all still in seclusion?” Regina asked the senior sister who was leading them.

“Most of the disciples participating in the Ascension Ceremony are in the Jade Glass Palace. That large hall over there,” the senior sister replied with a smile.

Regina looked towards the Jade Glass Palace.

At this moment, many sect disciples were strolling by the lakeside, chatting, sparring, or sipping tea while discussing the Dao.

Regina’s eyes shone with a brilliant light, and the disciples’ Primordial Spirits were instantly revealed to her.

After a moment, she withdrew her gaze, a charming smile curving her lips.

Apart from a few noteworthy individuals, the others weren’t worth mentioning.

The young man beside her seemed to have sensed something. He transmitted his voice, “Holy Maiden, have you detected any threatening individuals?”

“No real threats,” Regina replied calmly through voice transmission.

She appeared delicate and fragile, but her words were filled with an almost arrogant confidence.

However, neither the young man nor the elder was surprised.

For the Southern Wilderness’s most talented individual, a bit of arrogance was understandable.

“It seems the Eastern Realm’s geniuses are nothing special,” the young man chuckled.

“Don’t underestimate the geniuses from the Primordial Clans. We can’t be careless,” the elder warned them through voice transmission.

Regina nodded slightly, her eyes thoughtful. “The Two Polarities Sect is the sacred land for cultivators in the Eastern Realm. There’s no way they wouldn’t have any true prodigies.”

“Elder, wait for me outside. I’ll go inside the Jade Glass Palace and take a look.”

“I’ll go with you,” the young man immediately said.

As they entered the hall, the disciples within turned their attention towards the two visitors from the Southern Wilderness.

The Southern Wilderness’s cultivation system was completely different from the Eastern Realm’s. They were determined to win the top spot in the Ascension Ceremony and had undoubtedly sent their best disciples.

These two were likely those prodigies.

Facing everyone’s gazes, Regina simply smiled gently.

Her slender and graceful figure, coupled with her delicate and somewhat sickly aura, along with her gentle smile, easily evoked a sense of goodwill.

“Third-grade Core Formation, fourth-grade Core Formation…”

“Ninth-grade Foundation Establishment…”

“Second-grade Core Formation.”

Regina strolled along the lakeside, seemingly admiring the Jade Glass Palace, but her gaze was actually observing the surrounding disciples with interest.

Soon, a hint of disappointment appeared in her eyes.

Logically, the Two Polarities Sect shouldn’t be without a single true prodigy… But from the moment she stepped into the sect, she hadn’t seen a single genius among the current generation of disciples.

Were they all in seclusion?

The young man beside her also looked around, then glanced at the frail-looking young lady in the low-cut white dress.

Judging from the Holy Maiden’s expression, there wasn’t anyone here she deemed worthy of her attention?

Just as he thought this, he heard Regina utter a surprised “Eh?” Her gaze was fixed on a certain direction.

He followed her gaze and saw a young man in a black and gold robe, a gentle smile on his face.

It was understandable. He had won the bet a few days ago. After comforting the Ye sisters and confirming that they had entered seclusion to receive their inheritances, he had visited Two Polarities Peak and chatted with his senior sister and Feiying.

Now, he was planning to return to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony and present his maid with his ‘reward’ for winning the bet.

“Mengrou would look amazing in black silk and white silk…” Mu Zhi’an thought with a sigh, about to enter the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

Suddenly, he felt two unfamiliar gazes upon him. He turned his head and saw two people he had never met before.

The woman had pale skin and a delicate, almost sickly aura. Her low-cut dress revealed a hint of her fair skin, her shoulders and neck perfectly proportioned. Her hair cascaded down her shoulders, completing the image of a frail young lady.

As for the young man beside her… simply put, he wasn’t as handsome as Mu Zhi’an.

Is she checking me out…? As an Innate Spiritual Body, Mu Zhi’an quickly sensed something and glanced at the seemingly frail Holy Maiden from the Southern Wilderness.

A playful smile curved his lips. He nodded at them in greeting, then entered the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

Regina watched him leave, a hint of curiosity in her eyes.

The young man beside her frowned and asked, “Holy Maiden, is that person strong?”

“Average. Only third-grade Core Formation,” Regina replied, her voice melodious.

“Then why were you staring at him—”

“His Primordial Spirit is interesting.” Regina glanced at the sign that read ‘Garden of Heavenly Harmony’.

Although his cultivation level was average, the composition of his Vessel was quite peculiar. It wasn’t made up of a single type of Spiritual Energy but several.

Even his constitution was complex.

And she couldn’t see his past or future… It was as if his fate was shielded from divination.

It seemed he had a powerful backer.

“An interesting Primordial Spirit…?” the young man repeated, then shook his head and chuckled as he saw Regina’s intrigued gaze fixed on the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

“An interesting Primordial Spirit won’t affect the Ascension Ceremony.”

He continued, “Holy Maiden, let’s go back.”

“You’re right.”

Regina smiled faintly, about to turn and leave.

But just as she was about to look away, she suddenly froze, her gaze fixed on the entrance of the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

After a moment of hesitation, her body trembled slightly.

The young man beside her noticed her unusual behavior and called out, “Holy Maiden—”

However, before he could finish speaking, Regina’s voice, trembling slightly, interrupted him.

“There’s… something in that courtyard.”

Chapter 232: Visitors from the Southern Wilderness p1

That night, Mu Zhi’an visited the Ye sisters’ courtyard. After spending some quality time with Ye Lingxuan, he took the opportunity to present her with the Heaven Mending Pill while she was in a good mood.

“Lingxuan, take this pill while you’re receiving the inheritance. It will be very beneficial to your cultivation.”

Whether it was due to Mu Zhi’an’s teasing or something else, Ye Lingxuan’s face was flushed, her earlobes slightly red. Her lips were moist and plump, the rouge seemingly kissed away by someone.

Lost in the afterglow of their intimacy, Ye Lingxuan’s eyes slowly focused as she heard Mu Zhi’an’s words.

She tilted her head in confusion as she saw the pill in his hand, then her expression shifted. The shyness in her eyes faded, replaced by a coldness.

“Why do you still have the Heaven Mending Pill, Brother Mu? Did that woman give it to you?” Her voice was laced with displeasure. She clearly hadn’t forgotten the Jade Empress’s actions, which felt like a betrayal.

But she couldn’t do anything about that woman, who seemed to be around her father’s age.

At least, until she completed her inheritance, even the former Reincarnated Empress couldn’t do anything to the Jade Empress.

Mu Zhi’an held Ye Lingxuan’s soft hand, gently caressing her palm, and smiled. “I know you’re upset, Lingxuan, but you’re the only one who can maximize the benefits of the Heaven Mending Pill. The Ascension Ceremony is approaching, and this pill will help you improve your strength.”

“I’m not interested in the Ascension Ceremony,” Ye Lingxuan said, frowning.

Then, she suddenly asked, “Are you planning to participate, Brother Mu?”

Mu Zhi’an pondered for a moment, then nodded. “I’ll consider it an experience.”

He wasn’t truly interested in the Ascension Ceremony.

Or rather, he knew his current cultivation level wasn’t high enough, and it would be too difficult to reach first place.

He could fight opponents stronger than him, but if the difference in cultivation was too great, it would be challenging.

Talented individuals from at least four realms would be participating in the Ascension Ceremony. There were already many prodigies in the Eastern Realm, and if they added those from the Southern Wilderness, the Western Regions, and other realms… The competition would be fierce.

“In that case, I’ll accompany you, Brother Mu,” Ye Lingxuan said, leaning her head against his shoulder. She looked at the translucent pill in his hand, her eyes thoughtful.

Then, she asked softly, “Do you really want me to refine this Heaven Mending Pill, Brother Mu?”

If the outside world knew that the Forbidden Zone’s Holy Maiden was so reluctant to accept the Heaven Mending Pill, they would be speechless.

However, for Ye Lingxuan, accepting this pill felt like accepting the fact that ‘Brother Mu had been sold to the Jade Empress’.

After all, this pill was essentially the Jade Empress’s ‘compensation’ to her.

Mu Zhi’an nodded slightly and said soothingly, “If you refine the Heaven Mending Pill and comprehend a trace of Dao from it, you’ll become stronger, Lingxuan. It’s a good thing.”

He paused, then sighed. “Although your strength might surpass mine eventually, seeing you grow into a powerful orca… would put my mind at ease.”

“A powerful orca…?”

Ye Lingxuan tilted her head, then glanced at Mu Zhi’an. “Why do you sound like my father when he’s lecturing me, Brother Mu?”

She looked at the pill in his hand and finally relented. “Alright, I’ll refine it.”

Although the origin of this pill brought back unpleasant memories, Brother Mu was right. Refining it would increase her strength, and in the future, she would be powerful enough to keep him by her side…

Relieved that the issue was resolved, Mu Zhi’an let out a sigh.

He spent some more time with Ye Lingxuan, then, seeing that it was getting late, he left the Heaven Mending Pill with her and prepared to leave.

As he was about to leave, Ye Lingxuan suddenly asked, “Do you want me to participate in the Ascension Ceremony, Brother Mu?”

Mu Zhi’an paused, turned to look at her, and smiled. “You’re very cute now, Lingxuan, but a serious Lingxuan is also very charming. Decide for yourself.”

Then, he left the room.

Ye Lingxuan’s eyes flickered as she glanced at the ‘puppet’ standing beside her, acting as a chaperone.

“Let’s begin the inheritance.”

Although she wasn’t interested in the Ascension Ceremony, if Brother Mu wanted to see her shine, she would show him.

…

After leaving the room, Mu Zhi’an didn’t leave immediately. He walked along the path to the courtyard, repeatedly checking to make sure Ye Lingxuan wasn’t following him. Then, he turned back and headed towards Ye Qian’s room.

As he was about to knock, he heard the Jade Empress’s voice coming from inside.

It seems she’s still conducting the inheritance ceremony with Ye Qian…

Mu Zhi’an decided not to interrupt and silently left.

Since Bai Ruoxi was still refining the Heaven Mending Pill, he couldn’t disturb her either. He returned to his room to rest.

Two days passed quickly.

Late one night, a fierce battle erupted in Tianxuan City. As Mu Zhi’an had predicted, the remnants of the previous Demonic Cultivators targeted members of the Mu family and the Bai family, intending to use them as hostages to threaten him.

However, the sect elders, who had been waiting in ambush, swiftly intervened and suppressed them.

That night, the Enforcement Hall extracted the Demonic Cultivator’s Primordial Spirit for interrogation and discovered a hidden lair of the remnants.

With this, the remnants’ influence in the Eastern Realm was completely eradicated.

Even if there were still some remnants hiding in the shadows, they wouldn’t be able to cause any significant trouble.

As time went on, the Ascension Ceremony drew closer.

On the morning of the fifth day, a warship from the Southern Wilderness finally arrived at the Two Polarities Sect, having crossed the World Sea.

Many people in the Eastern Realm were secretly observing this scene.

The Two Polarities Sect was already bustling with talented individuals from various Primordial Clans in the Eastern Realm.

Seeing the warship, they immediately sent messages to their families, informing them of the Southern Wilderness’s arrival.

Meanwhile, a senior sister from the Two Polarities Sect personally guided the visitors from the Southern Wilderness to the Celestial Realm where they would be staying for the next few days.

“The Two Polarities Sect truly lives up to its reputation as a sacred land for cultivators. Such abundant Spiritual Energy… It’s no wonder they can cultivate so many talented disciples.”

The elder from the Southern Wilderness, who had accompanied two talented disciples to the Eastern Realm, expressed his sincere admiration as he looked at the towering mountains and the majestic buildings atop them.

He wore a black robe with a hood, seemingly no different from an ordinary cultivator. However, this was just an illusion created by the Southern Wilderness’s transformation techniques.

Most of the evil deities in the Southern Wilderness were Unseeable, their forms vastly different from humans.

However, if they wished, they could transform into human forms. Apart from their pale skin, they were indistinguishable from humans.

“The land in the Eastern Realm is indeed much more fertile than the Southern Wilderness. However, despite such a favorable environment, most of these cultivators’ cultivation levels are rather ordinary,” a pale and frail-looking man beside the elder commented.

Beside him, a woman in a low-cut white dress looked around with a faint smile.

Although she hadn’t spoken a word, many were drawn to her beauty since she stepped foot into the Two Polarities Sect.

She exuded an air of grace and elegance, her skin an unhealthy pale white, which somehow enhanced her exotic beauty.

“Regina, the Two Polarities Sect is full of hidden experts. Remember not to use your Soul Reading Technique recklessly here,” the elder warned her through voice transmission.

Regina was the most talented individual in the Southern Wilderness. Some even rumored that she was the reincarnation of one of the Four Pillar Gods, a powerful evil deity.

From birth, she possessed the ability to see through the world. Her Soul Reading Technique allowed her to see a person’s Primordial Spirit, their past, and even their future.

The higher her cultivation level, the more of the future she could see.

In the past, Regina had never lost a battle in the Southern Wilderness, simply because she could foresee any danger that would befall her in the next few seconds and alter the course of time.

“Don’t worry, I know what I’m doing. You don’t need to be concerned,” Regina said, a charming smile curving her pale lips as she looked around at the disciples with interest.

Chapter 231: Does the Fairy Sister Want to Keep Me? p2

The news of the Jade Empress overcoming her Primordial Spirit Tribulation spread throughout the sect that day.

Some elders and peak masters noticed something unusual.

It was understandable. After all, several peak masters and elders had entered seclusion to cultivate on the same day. It was hard not to notice.

However, they couldn’t figure out why the Jade Empress had only bestowed her enlightenment upon a select few.

Meanwhile, the Enforcement Hall had sent people to Tianxuan City to secretly monitor the situation, waiting for the prey to take the bait.

Mu Zhi’an was unaware of the events unfolding outside the sect. He had just returned to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony and was greeted by Bai Ruoxi, her ample bosom surpassing all the other girls. She was dressed in a form-fitting white palace dress adorned with beautiful red plum blossoms, highlighting her fair skin.

Delicate ornaments adorned her hair, and her beautiful face seemed to glow in the sunlight.

Bai Ruoxi poured tea for Mu Zhi’an and the Jade Empress, smiling. “Senior Jade Empress, has your Primordial Spirit Tribulation ended?”

She seemed completely oblivious to the relationship between Mu Zhi’an and the Jade Empress.

The Jade Empress sat down in the courtyard and nodded with a smile. “The tribulation has ended, but I might need to enter seclusion again in a few days.”

Although her Vessel had been condensed, she was a Dao Integration cultivator. Replenishing her Vessel’s Spiritual Energy wouldn’t happen overnight.

Unless she directly converted a large number of living beings into essence.

But naturally, the Jade Empress wouldn’t consider such a method. Instead, she had chosen another approach – a gradual process.

She would enter seclusion within Mu Zhi’an’s body for a while. Absorbing Spiritual Energy within his Innate Celestial Furnace would be much more efficient than doing so in the outside world.

“Are you entering seclusion again, Empress?” Mu Zhi’an asked in surprise.

I haven’t even fully enjoyed her body yet, and she’s already planning to enter seclusion…?

The Jade Empress nodded slightly. “I’ve reinforced the seal in the Pilgrimage Palace after my tribulation. Even Nascent Soul cultivators can’t enter now. I’ll use this time to recover my Spiritual Energy and prepare to eliminate the Primordial Demon Emperor.”

“What if he uses all his strength to break free from the seal and escape…?” Bai Ruoxi asked worriedly.

The Jade Empress raised an eyebrow, her melodious voice ringing out, “With the Pure World Azure Lotus and the Spiritual Energy absorbed by the vines, the Primordial Demon Emperor can’t escape the Pilgrimage Palace. Unless he truly intends to burn his essence and fight to the death… But as long as there’s a glimmer of hope, he won’t do that.”

Burning one’s essence meant converting their life force into Spiritual Energy. Once they did that, there was no turning back… The Primordial Demon Emperor was ambitious; as long as there was a chance of survival, he wouldn’t choose to self-destruct.

“The Empress’s vines are indeed reliable. They’re quite effective…” Mu Zhi’an, who had experienced them firsthand, said with a strange feeling.

The mention of vines brought back memories of his unforgettable experience in the Jade Pool Ancestral Land.

He never thought there would be a woman he couldn’t conquer… Dao Integration was truly on another level. His Core Formation body wasn’t enough to suppress her.

Those few days in the Jade Pool Ancestral Land had left him slightly traumatized.

However, despite the trauma, he wouldn’t refuse another dual cultivation session with her.

Perhaps it was an acquired taste.

After chatting for a while, the Jade Empress smiled and took out a translucent pill, handing it to Bai Ruoxi.

“Lady Bai, consider this a small token of appreciation for our first meeting.”

Bai Ruoxi was stunned. “What is this…?”

The Jade Empress smiled faintly. “It’s the Heaven Mending Pill.”

“Its effect is simple. After you reach the Nascent Soul Realm, it will increase your chances of breaking through to the Dao Integration Realm. In addition, you might even comprehend a trace of Dao at the Core Formation Realm.”

For Core Formation cultivators, their foundation determined their strength, and a trace of Dao韵 could often be the deciding factor in a battle. Bai Ruoxi understood the value of the Heaven Mending Pill.

She hesitated. “I can’t accept such a precious gift…”

“There’s no need to be so polite between us. Take it.”

The Jade Empress smiled. “After all, I’ve caused you and young friend Mu quite a bit of trouble recently.”

Seeing her insistence, Bai Ruoxi accepted the gift.

They chatted for a while longer. Bai Ruoxi couldn’t help but admire the Jade Empress. She was not only knowledgeable but also incredibly powerful, capable of answering any questions about cultivation. She was truly admirable.

However, she couldn’t help but notice the strange glint in the Empress’s eyes whenever she looked at Mu Zhi’an…

“I need to visit my disciple. It might take some time, but I’ll be back later.”

She had returned to the Dao Integration Realm, but Ye Qian’s inheritance was only halfway complete. The Ascension Ceremony was in half a month, and it would be best for Ye Qian to fully inherit the Jade Empress’s legacy before then.

Mu Zhi’an’s eyes held a thoughtful glint as he took out a Heaven Mending Pill from his storage ring.

This was the pill he had obtained from the Jade Empress after she overcame her physical tribulation. He had originally planned to give it to Ye Lingxuan, but she had angrily refused, feeling insulted.

However, if the outside world knew they could obtain a Heaven Mending Pill by being insulted, countless people would be lining up for the opportunity.

Ye Lingxuan had refused in a fit of anger, but now that she had calmed down, she should be able to accept it.

I’ll find time to visit Lingxuan tonight or tomorrow…

But that was a matter for later. Now… he had more important things to do.

Mu Zhi’an’s gaze returned to Bai Ruoxi, who was also looking at him, her eyes sparkling with affection and a hint of resentment.

Despite Wei Mengrou’s presence, Mu Zhi’an boldly took Bai Ruoxi’s hand and smiled. “Ruoxi, have you missed me?”

“What about you?” she countered.

“Of course, I’ve been thinking about you every day since I left the sect.” Mu Zhi’an pressed down on the Heart-Binding Lock that had emerged from Bai Ruoxi’s sleeve and said softly, “Let’s go back to our room.”

His eyes seemed to be filled with love.

“What are you talking about? We can’t do that in broad daylight…” Bai Ruoxi blushed and gently pushed him away.

“The Ascension Ceremony is approaching. How can we, as cultivators, be idle? Ruoxi, for you, and for the sect, this is necessary effort,” Mu Zhi’an said solemnly, planning to appease the ‘fish’ in his pond while the others were away.

Bai Ruoxi scoffed and glanced at him. “Why don’t you tell that to your Lingxuan? I’m going to refine the Heaven Mending Pill.”

She ignored Mu Zhi’an and turned to leave, giving him only a glimpse of her graceful figure.

Mu Zhi’an fell into deep thought.

It seems I haven’t disciplined Ruoxi enough lately. She’s getting a bit too bold… I’ll have to suppress her tonight!

“Aren’t you going after her?” Wei Mengrou’s cold voice came from beside him.

Mu Zhi’an shook his head and smiled. “There’s no rush. Cultivation comes first. I’ll deal with her after she refines the Heaven Mending Pill.”

Then, he changed the subject. “By the way, Mengrou, are you ready to fulfill our bet?”

The maid raised her chin proudly and glanced at him. “We’ll talk after you win.”

She paused, then continued, “Are you really that confident?”

Her voice held a hint of unease.

Although she appeared calm and collected, seeing her young master’s confidence made her slightly anxious.

Mu Zhi’an smiled and poured her a cup of tea.

“Sometimes, waiting patiently is much more effective than acting rashly.”

Wei Mengrou hesitated. “If you win, what are you going to do…?”

Mu Zhi’an didn’t answer. He looked up at the weak winter sun and smiled.

“Mengrou, the weather is getting colder. It’s time to change into warmer clothes and socks.”

Chapter 231: Does the Fairy Sister Want to Keep Me? p1

“What a crappy system. It scanned for almost five minutes, didn’t bind, and then just ran off…?”

Even Mu Zhi’an was speechless.

If an ordinary person suddenly encountered a system binding in their mind and then received a ‘binding failed’ notification after eagerly anticipating it, they would probably be depressed for days.

But Mu Zhi’an had a good mentality and quickly calmed down.

It was just a system. No big deal.

Technically, he already had a system… It was just passive and only activated when he was intimate with the girls around him. It didn’t have a shop or anything like that.

Boom!

A deafening thunderclap snapped him out of his thoughts.

He looked up.

The sound came from the Pilgrimage Palace.

Many disciples had gathered outside the palace, sensing the Jade Empress’s Primordial Spirit Tribulation. They had come to witness the magnificent spectacle.

Among the crowd, a young man in a black robe gazed at the Jade Empress’s figure in the sky, his eyes filled with admiration, resentment, and envy.

An old voice echoed in Ye Yu’s mind, “Mu Zhi’an actually managed to obtain the Rebirth Water and the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit, reconstructing her immortal body… It’s quite surprising.”

In fact, neither the old man nor Ye Yu had believed Mu Zhi’an could obtain the Rebirth Water. After all, with the Master of the Forbidden Zone’ personality and the Forbidden Zone’s isolation, there was no reason for them to accept an outsider like Mu Zhi’an and grant him such a treasure.

Mu Zhi’an must have relied on his connection with Ye Lingxuan.

However, to win the heart of the Forbidden Zone’s Holy Maiden was a feat in itself.

“Without Lingxuan, how could he possibly obtain the Rebirth Water from the Master of the Forbidden Zone?” Ye Yu looked up at the Jade Empress’s figure, his heart filled with resentment.

“Connections are also a form of strength,” the old man said, guiding him.

“External forces are ultimately just unorthodox methods. Isn’t Mu Zhi’an’s recent death in the Jade Pool a prime example?”

Ye Yu transmitted his voice secretly, “Even with the peak masters’ protection within the sect, what good is it? Outside the sect, one ultimately relies on their own strength. He deserved what happened to him.”

News of Mu Zhi’an’s death in the Jade Pool had spread throughout the sect, and Ye Yu was naturally aware of it.

From the beginning, Mu Zhi’an had barely cultivated seriously, spending most of his time with his Dao Companions or socializing with the peak masters.

But what good was it?

When faced with a crisis, he could only rely on himself.

If he had cultivated diligently, perhaps he would have had a chance of survival during the attack on the Jade Pool.

Although he had heard rumors that Mu Zhi’an might still be alive, it only meant he was lucky.

He might have been fortunate this time, but next time, he might not be so lucky.

The old man sighed softly and fell silent.

Meanwhile, the Jade Empress gracefully descended from the sky under the watchful eyes of the disciples.

“Congratulations, Senior Jade Empress, on returning to the Dao Integration Realm!”

The disciples bowed respectfully, their voices filled with admiration and other hidden emotions.

There were many records of the Jade Empress in the Eastern Realm’s history books. She was a graceful and powerful cultivator who had single-handedly stopped the Primordial Demon Emperor and his demon army from conquering the Eastern Realm, suppressing him with her immense power.

Since then, although there had been some friction between the Northern Realm Demon Realm and the Eastern Realm, the situation was undoubtedly much better than during the Primordial Demon Emperor’s reign.

This was largely due to the Jade Empress’s actions, which had instilled fear in the Demonic Cultivators.

As they spoke, many disciples secretly observed the Empress’s beauty.

Unfortunately, her body was enveloped in a silver glow, concealing her features, as if she were residing in a distant palace, creating an insurmountable distance between her and the others.

Her green dress outlined her slender and alluring figure. Although her demeanor was gentle, she commanded respect, discouraging any thoughts of disrespect.

Even Ye Yu didn’t dare to look too closely.

After all, he had another purpose for coming here…

His teacher had told him that after overcoming the Primordial Spirit Tribulation, the Jade Empress would surely gain enlightenment, and this enlightenment was a form of opportunity.

The Jade Empress looked up towards Two Polarities Peak, her gaze deep, as if penetrating through the Pilgrimage Palace and reaching the peak’s depths.

“Thank you for your assistance, Fellow Daoist,” she said, her voice calm and gentle.

Her voice contained no Spiritual Energy, but she knew Shang Yanfei could hear her.

The Jade Empress’s rebirth in a physical body was possible thanks to both Mu Zhi’an and Shang Yanfei.

After expressing her gratitude, the Jade Empress looked at the disciples before her, her gaze gentle and kind. She raised her finger, and a faint green light enveloped them.

The Primordial Spirit Tribulation, in a sense, forced the cultivator undergoing it to experience nine trials. These trials included not only lightning strikes but also inner demons, past experiences, and one’s deepest fears.

By overcoming these nine trials and merging with the Great Dao, one could achieve the Dao Integration Realm.

The enlightenment she had gained during these nine trials was now being shared with the disciples before her.

After a moment of confusion, the disciples were overjoyed.

They could sense the bottlenecks that had been hindering their cultivation breaking apart. They immediately sat down to meditate, attempting to break through.

The Jade Empress hovered slightly above the ground, her feet as white as jade, tempting one to hold them in their hands and admire their beauty.

She raised her finger and released a green star.

The star instantly transformed into several streaks of green light, flying towards the main peaks.

In Shaoyue Courtyard, Yan Ruyu had just seen Yu Xuanji off and was about to meditate when she saw a green star land before her. A wisp of Spiritual Energy silently entered her body.

Almost instantly, the Peak Master of the Book Pavilion felt the bottleneck that had been plaguing her for a long time shatter.

This Spiritual Energy contained the enlightenment the Jade Empress had gained during her Primordial Spirit Tribulation.

At the same time, streaks of green light descended upon Heavenly Secrets Peak, Boundless Sea Peak, Dao Peak, and other main peaks.

“Thank you, Jade Empress!”

Several peak masters and elders who had been stuck at bottlenecks were ecstatic. They cupped their fists towards the Pilgrimage Palace, expressing their gratitude.

Then, they entered seclusion, ready to use this precious enlightenment to break through to the next level of the Nascent Soul Realm.

Such opportunities were rare and only came from the Primordial Spirit Tribulation of a Dao Integration cultivator.

The peak masters who knew about Mu Zhi’an’s relationship with the Jade Empress understood that this was her way of compensating them on his behalf. She must have known about their kindness towards him during her time slumbering within his body.

Meanwhile, several streaks of green light also descended upon the Jade Pool.

In front of the Pilgrimage Palace, disciples sat down to meditate, their faces filled with excitement.

The Jade Empress’s enlightenment had allowed them to break through their bottlenecks!

After today, many disciples would undergo their tribulations, and the thunderclaps would likely continue for several days…

Ye Yu was also among the crowd, meditating with his eyes closed, his heart filled with excitement.

“Master was right. After the Jade Empress’s Primordial Spirit Tribulation, she would surely bestow upon her disciples a great opportunity!” Ye Yu thought to himself.

“The Primordial Spirit Tribulation is a trial only faced by Dao Integration cultivators. After overcoming it, they gain enlightenment.”

“This enlightenment is meaningless to Dao Integration cultivators, but it’s a great opportunity for those below that realm. You’re lucky to have witnessed the Jade Empress’s tribulation. Normally, a Dao Integration cultivator might not appear for thousands of years.”

The old man’s voice echoed in Ye Yu’s mind, further amplifying his joy.

This was also a manifestation of his own luck. All the cultivators present today had received the Jade Empress’s blessing, while others weren’t so fortunate.

With this opportunity, he could break through to the next level. The Ascension Ceremony in half a month would be his chance to shine!

The Ascension Ceremony was a grand event, attracting talented individuals from all over the Nine Realms. If he could emerge victorious, his name would be etched in history!

Aside from fame, the three Imperial-Grade Medicinal Herbs… such rewards were incredibly tempting.

Moreover, even if he didn’t win first place, those who performed well in the Ascension Ceremony would attract attention from the major Primordial Clans. If he could join one of those clans, he would have access to abundant resources and even potential Dao Companions.

Ye Yu quickly suppressed his excitement and focused on breaking through to the second-grade Core Formation Realm.

On this day, over ten Earthly Immortals at the Nascent Soul Realm entered seclusion, attempting to overcome the bottlenecks that had been plaguing them.

And the disciples who had witnessed the Jade Empress’s tribulation at the Pilgrimage Palace received a great opportunity.

Only Mu Zhi’an, who had just arrived, missed out. Seeing the disciples meditating, he understood what had happened.

“I’m at a huge loss…” Mu Zhi’an thought, feeling a pang of regret.

Meanwhile, the Jade Empress, after watching the disciples meditate, withdrew her gaze.

Her eyes scanned the crowd, and she soon spotted the young man who had just arrived on his sword.

He stood on a black sword, dressed in a luxurious black robe with gold trim.

Under her gaze, Mu Zhi’an descended from his sword. Seeing the meditating disciples, he understood and said with a sigh, “It seems I’m a step late.”

If he had received that enlightenment, he might have been able to break through again.

A few disciples who had just sensed their bottlenecks breaking were about to meditate when they noticed him and turned to look.

“Mu Zhi’an?”

“He’s actually alive…” Some were surprised, but they nodded at him in greeting, their eyes filled with sympathy.

The Jade Empress had just bestowed her enlightenment, and Mu Zhi’an had arrived after it was over… Even imagining the situation was enough to make one frustrated.

Of course, they didn’t have time to pay attention to him now. Feeling the stirrings of a breakthrough within their Vessels, they were overjoyed and immediately sat down to meditate, attempting to break through their bottlenecks.

As if sensing Mu Zhi’an’s thoughts, the Jade Empress’s melodious voice reached his ears, “I’ve saved some of the Primordial Spirit Tribulation’s enlightenment for you. In addition, I have a pill that can raise your cultivation by one grade. You can take it with other pills to accelerate your cultivation progress.”

“I’ll prepare the necessary pills for you.”

Is she planning to keep me, preparing everything for me…? Mu Zhi’an didn’t refuse, feeling touched. “Thank you, Empress. You’re so kind.”

Being a kept man is truly the best… he thought with a sigh.

Perhaps due to having just overcome the Primordial Spirit Tribulation, the Jade Empress’s beautiful face was flushed, her eyes sparkling as she gazed at him. Her ethereal voice reached his ears again.

“Go back first.”

“I’ll teach you how to refine pills tonight.”

—

Chapter 230: System Binding… Binding Failed! p2

Essentially, the two eighth-grade pills had only served to repair Mu Zhi’an’s consciousness and raise his cultivation level by one grade, without any additional benefits.

If word got out, it would make many old monsters spit blood in anger.

After all, the two Primordial Clans that betrayed the Eastern Realm had likely risked everything for an eighth-grade pill.

And here was Mu Zhi’an, casually consuming two eighth-grade pills and gaining nothing from them.

However, Yan Ruyu scrutinized Mu Zhi’an. “Your Spiritual Energy seems different from before. Did something happen?”

She wanted to say that his Spiritual Energy was even more alluring than before, but she couldn’t ask such a question in front of others, so she phrased it more subtly.

Mu Zhi’an hesitated for a moment, then cupped his fists. “To be honest, although I didn’t comprehend the Dao within the pills, it seems the Dao essence from the eighth-grade pills have sealed themselves within my Vessel…”

The atmosphere in the hall instantly froze. Lan Feiying noticed a change in her usually calm master’s eyes.

Yan Ruyu also looked at Mu Zhi’an, or rather, at his Vessel, with a hint of disbelief.

“The Dao essence from two eighth-grade pills are within your Vessel…?”

Normally, there was only a slight chance of comprehending Dao essence from an eighth-grade pill. If Mu Zhi’an had consumed two pills and both contained Dao essence, the value of his Innate Celestial Furnace… would be far beyond imagination…

Seeing Mu Zhi’an nod slightly, Yan Ruyu was speechless. She stared at her disciple, her mouth agape.

After a long silence, she finally regained her composure. “You came to see me because you have something important to discuss?”

Although she was tempted, she couldn’t reveal her true feelings…

Mu Zhi’an nodded slightly and cupped his fists. “I request that the Peak Master send people to Tianxuan City to secretly monitor the Bai family and the Mu family.”

“Why?” Yu Xuanji, who had also regained her composure, asked, her beautiful eyes fixed on the handsome young man.

“The Primordial Demon Emperor will do anything to obtain the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit. Only if he has no chance of getting it will he resort to burning his essence and fighting to the death.”

“And the remnants of the previous Demonic Cultivators are like rats in the street. Their only option is to obtain the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit for the Primordial Demon Emperor.”

“If rumors of me possessing the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit were to spread, they would resort to any means necessary.”

Mu Zhi’an paused, then continued, “They can’t do anything to me within the sect, but what about the people around me…?”

The two peak masters weren’t fools. They understood his meaning.

“You’re saying that the remnants will target the people around you as leverage?” Yan Ruyu asked.

Mu Zhi’an nodded. “After the Jade Empress completes her tribulation, the Primordial Demon Emperor’s situation will become increasingly dire. And the remnants will become more desperate.”

“The more they act, the more flaws they’ll reveal.”

He looked at the three women and smiled gently. “When catching bees, if you mark one, you can find the entire hive.”

…

After bidding farewell to the two peak masters, Mu Zhi’an looked up towards the Pilgrimage Palace. The tribulation there seemed to be nearing its end.

He had done everything he could. The rest was up to the powerful beings.

As for him… he didn’t need to do anything. Once he returned to the Jade Glass Palace, he would focus on enhancing the physiques and Spiritual Energy of the participants in the Ascension Ceremony.

It couldn’t be helped. For the sake of the Ascension Ceremony, he would work hard. It was his duty!

As he was about to fly towards the Pilgrimage Palace to greet the Jade Empress after her Primordial Spirit Tribulation, he suddenly heard a ‘ding’ in his ear.

Then, a cold, emotionless, mechanical voice rang out.

“Iris scan in progress…”

“System binding…”

Mu Zhi’an was stunned, then exclaimed inwardly, “Holy crap!”

Holy crap, a system?!

Even someone as calm as Mu Zhi’an couldn’t help but feel a surge of excitement.

I’m getting a system?!

Then, he heard the voice again: “System binding…”

The emotionless mechanical voice sent shivers down his spine.

Although his motto was to enjoy the benefits of being a kept man, obtaining a system was still a delightful surprise.

After all, a system meant he could become even stronger.

It seems Ye Yu’s protagonist status has been completely eradicated, and I’m finally going to become the true protagonist… Mu Zhi’an thought, his heart filled with anticipation.

He patiently waited for the system to bind.

“System binding…”

Time passed silently. An incense stick’s worth of time went by.

But the system kept repeating, “System binding…”

Is it stuck or something?

As Mu Zhi’an wondered, he heard the emotionless mechanical voice again:

“Ding!”

His heart skipped a beat. Then, he heard the system’s emotionless announcement:

“Binding failed. The system will search for another host. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.”

Mu Zhi’an: “?”

The cold mechanical voice disappeared completely.

At the same time, in a closed room somewhere, a clear and melodious voice rang out.

“Iris scan in progress… Scan complete!”

“Talent assessment… Perfect!”

“System binding…”

“Binding successful!”

Hearing the voice, a beautiful woman slowly opened her eyes, her gaze filled with confusion.

Chapter 230: System Binding… Binding Failed! p1

Book Pavilion. Shaoyue Courtyard.

Yu Xuanji, the peak master of Heavenly Secrets Peak, sat at a tea table, her feet adorned with exquisitely embroidered shoes. Dressed in luxurious attire, she appeared to be in the prime of her life, her figure full and alluring.

“Senior Sister Yan, it’s truly fortunate that your disciple was able to be reborn. He’s blessed with great luck, but he might not be so lucky next time. It’s best for him to stay within the sect from now on,” Yu Xuanji said softly, her gaze fixed on the woman opposite her.

Today, Yu Xuanji, accompanied by her inner disciple, had visited the Book Pavilion for two reasons. One was to discuss Mu Zhi’an’s situation.

Yan Ruyu, dressed in a loose black robe that did little to conceal her ample bosom, was as beautiful as ever, her skin fair and her demeanor gentle and charming.

She sighed. “Indeed, my disciple was lucky this time. I will warn him to be more careful in the future and avoid such incidents.”

Then, she changed the subject. “Junior Sister Yu, is that the only reason you came to see me today?”

Her gaze subtly shifted towards the woman beside Yu Xuanji, her curvaceous figure highlighted by a red cheongsam.

Lan Feiying. She recognized this disciple. After all, she was Lan Mulian’s younger sister; it was impossible not to know her.

Yu Xuanji’s visit to Shaoyue Courtyard probably wasn’t just about Mu Zhi’an…

Yu Xuanji smiled gently. “You guessed it, Senior Sister. I’m here for two reasons. First, to discuss Mu Zhi’an’s situation. Second, my disciple is now at the fifth-grade Core Formation Realm, and I find that her current cultivation technique isn’t quite suitable. I was hoping you could help me assess her and recommend a more appropriate technique.”

Yan Ruyu might not have memorized every book in the Book Pavilion, but she was familiar with most of them, including their characteristics and suitability for different cultivators. If she could assess Lan Feiying and recommend a cultivation technique, it would save her a lot of time and effort in the future.

Generally, cultivators could be categorized into dozens of types, based on their preferred weapons – swords, spears, hidden weapons, and so on. There were also those who specialized in the five elements, or even those who focused on pure physical strength, breaking through all techniques with a single punch or palm strike.

Most cultivators simply chose to learn whatever they liked.

However, some people were naturally unsuited for certain weapons, which put them at a disadvantage compared to their peers at the same cultivation level.

Lan Feiying was still young; she had time to change and choose a ‘Dao’ that was more compatible with her.

Of course, even if she wanted to change, she needed to know what type she was most suited for.

Weapons, fist techniques, palm techniques, the five elements… These all required assessment to determine the best fit.

And Yan Ruyu was capable of conducting such assessments.

After hearing Yu Xuanji’s request, Yan Ruyu pondered for a moment, then nodded. “After we deal with the remnants of the previous Demonic Cultivators, let’s have all the inner disciples undergo an assessment.”

The upcoming Ascension Ceremony was crucial for the Two Polarities Sect. No one wanted to see the first place go to another faction, especially with the three Imperial-Grade Medicinal Herbs as rewards.

If possible, she was willing to contribute by assessing the disciples, helping them avoid unnecessary detours on their cultivation paths.

“As expected of Senior Sister Yan, always thinking of the bigger picture,” Yu Xuanji said, praising her without reservation.

Then, she sighed softly. “However, most of the remnants of the previous Demonic Cultivators are hiding in the shadows. It won’t be easy to flush them out.”

Hearing this, Yan Ruyu also frowned slightly.

The peak masters had discussed this issue over the past two days, but they hadn’t reached a solution.

The Forbidden Zone’s recent emergence and the Primordial Clans’ internal investigations had indeed purged some Demonic Cultivators.

But the peak masters knew that some of the previous generation’s fangs remained hidden within the Eastern Realm.

Although they were aware of this, if these remnants refused to reveal themselves, there wasn’t much they could do.

At this moment, a disciple entered the hall and reported, “Peak Master Yan, Mu Zhi’an requests an audience.”

The two peak masters exchanged glances. Then, Yan Ruyu said, “Invite him in.”

Moments later, Mu Zhi’an was led into the elegant courtyard, where he greeted the mature and intellectual Peak Master of the Book Pavilion.

The peak master of Heavenly Secrets Peak is also here?

And… she brought Feiying with her?

As soon as he entered the hall, Mu Zhi’an noticed the others present. His gaze swept over Lan Feiying, who winked playfully at him, as if greeting him. Mu Zhi’an smiled back.

Then, he cupped his fists and said, “Disciple Mu Zhi’an greets Peak Master Yan and Peak Master Yu.”

“Young friend Mu, it’s been a while,” Yu Xuanji said with a gentle smile, but her eyes held a hint of curiosity as she observed him.

His aura is even more alluring than before… Why is that?

Meanwhile, Yan Ruyu had already invited Mu Zhi’an to sit down. She sighed, “You not only survived but also turned misfortune into fortune. That’s a good thing.”

“But don’t take such risks again. You might not be so lucky next time.”

As a high-ranking member of the Two Polarities Sect, she naturally knew some secrets that the outside world didn’t.

For example, Mu Zhi’an had consumed eighth-grade pills. And his relationship with the Jade Empress was much closer than people imagined…

“Thank you for your reminder, Peak Master. I’ll be more careful from now on.”

“However… being careful might not be enough.” Mu Zhi’an’s words held a deeper meaning.

“Speak freely,” Yan Ruyu said, understanding his implication.

“To be honest, I was approached by a remnant of the previous Demonic Cultivators, who asked me to deliver the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit to the Primordial Demon Emperor.”

The two peak masters were stunned, wondering if they had misheard.

“Why would a remnant of the previous Demonic Cultivators approach you…?” Yan Ruyu frowned, sensing something was amiss.

Logically, why would a remnant target Mu Zhi’an, a regular sect disciple and a righteous cultivator, out of everyone else?

“I obtained an eighth-grade Soul Nourishing Pill from the Primordial Demon Emperor in the past,” Mu Zhi’an confessed.

He trusted these two peak masters, who had helped him before.

As for Lan Feiying… well, she was one of his future targets. He couldn’t miss out on the opportunity to have both Lan Mulian, the cold and aloof beauty, and Lan Feiying, the seductive and passionate one.

“When I received the Soul Nourishing Pill, I promised the Primordial Demon Emperor that I would obtain the Rebirth Water and the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit…” Mu Zhi’an continued.

Yan Ruyu’s expression changed slightly. “Did you swear an oath to the Primordial Demon Emperor?”

“I did, but not completely,” Mu Zhi’an replied.

Sensing their confusion, he explained, “I swore an oath, but I didn’t specify who I would give the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit and the Rebirth Water to after obtaining them.”

For a moment, Yan Ruyu looked at Mu Zhi’an with a strange expression.

Should I say this disciple is bold or cunning? He not only tricked the Primordial Demon Emperor within the Pilgrimage Palace’s Celestial Realm but also managed to swindle an eighth-grade pill from him…?

“What about the Soul Nourishing Pill?” Yu Xuanji couldn’t help but ask.

“I consumed it along with the Soul Returning Pill a few days ago when my consciousness was damaged,” Mu Zhi’an replied.

“Have you achieved any understanding of the Dao?” Yan Ruyu also couldn’t resist asking.

Every time one consumed an eighth-grade pill, there was a chance to comprehend a trace of Dao, gaining some of the abilities of a Dao Integration cultivator at the Nascent Soul Realm and extending their lifespan. It was one of the most sought-after treasures for cultivators.

Even peak masters were tempted by such a treasure.

“No,” Mu Zhi’an shook his head.

Disappointment flashed in Yu Xuanji’s eyes.

What a waste…

—

Chapter 229: The Sect Master’s Secret p2

—

Mu Zhi’an was alive!

While this news had been limited to a few people before, as Mu Zhi’an left Two Polarities Peak and headed towards the Enforcement Hall, more and more people began to notice him.

At the Qingyang Hall on the south bank, many cultivators were sparring and competing, creating a lively atmosphere.

As Mu Zhi’an entered the hall, the cultivators who were gambling sect points noticed him, and the lively atmosphere shifted slightly.

“Mu Zhi’an?!”

“Didn’t he die? How is he…”

Some whispered amongst themselves, their gazes filled with shock and uncertainty.

Some of them had personally confirmed Mu Zhi’an’s death with the elders on the main peak… Yet, here he was, alive and well, standing before them. It was hard not to be surprised.

“Junior Brother Mu, a-are you a human or a ghost?” A beautiful senior sister asked cautiously, her eyes filled with confusion and a hint of admiration.

She couldn’t help but feel that Mu Zhi’an looked much more handsome than before.

It wasn’t just a change in his physical appearance, but his entire demeanor and aura had transformed.

His Innate Celestial Furnace had absorbed a trace of Dao from each of the three eighth-grade pills. Although Mu Zhi’an himself couldn’t sense this Dao韵, it was stored within his Vessel.

And this Dao was an irresistible temptation for cultivators.

Even though they didn’t know about his Innate Celestial Furnace or the residual Dao from the eighth-grade pills, they were still drawn to him.

Mu Zhi’an looked at her and chuckled, “Have you ever seen a ghost with a shadow, Senior Sister?”

The senior sister, emboldened, took a step forward and poked Mu Zhi’an’s body with her finger. She was overjoyed to discover that he was indeed alive and well.

“You’re not dead… You’re actually alive?!”

“Thank you for your concern, Senior Sister. I guess you could say I turned misfortune into fortune,” Mu Zhi’an said with a reserved smile, trying to project an image of an innocent young man.

He cupped his fists towards the crowd and walked deeper into the hall. After reporting to the disciples guarding the entrance, he soon arrived at the inner sanctum of the Enforcement Hall.

He needed to inform them of his return.

…

After completing the necessary procedures, Mu Zhi’an returned to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

His maid was sitting by the pond, seemingly lost in thought.

The maid in the yellow dress was usually quite low-key, her attire and hairstyle simple. She wore a delicate hair ornament that complemented her cold and beautiful features.

Sensing someone approaching, she looked up and saw Mu Zhi’an walking towards her.

“Mengrou, lost in thought… Thinking about me, perhaps?” Mu Zhi’an asked playfully.

Wei Mengrou rolled her eyes, used to her young master’s flirtatious nature, and ignored his remark.

After a moment of silence, she suddenly said, “Your scent is becoming increasingly alluring.”

“Why does that sound like something a creepy scent fetishist would say…?” Mu Zhi’an complained.

Wei Mengrou frowned. “I’m not joking.”

“I know,” Mu Zhi’an chuckled.

The more ‘good stuff’ his Innate Celestial Furnace contained, the more alluring he became. He was well aware of this.

If he didn’t get rid of some of it soon, he would become a walking treasure trove.

Being too popular wasn’t a good thing.

At least, not in his current situation.

If he wasn’t careful, the baby orcas in his pond might jump out and devour their owner.

“I’ll deal with it later,” Mu Zhi’an said.

Tonight, he would find time to give Ruoxi some Dao and Spiritual Energy to enhance her physique.

Then, he would find time to visit the others…

It’s a shame Mengrou is still so cold and aloof. Otherwise, I could give her some too… Mu Zhi’an looked at Wei Mengrou’s alluring figure, accentuated by her yellow dress, feeling a pang of regret.

“Deal with it later… You mean you’re going out again?” Wei Mengrou frowned. “Although we’re within the sect, it’s still a sensitive time. Be careful.”

The Primordial Demon Emperor likely knew about the Jade Empress’s tribulation. He wouldn’t sit idly by. If he realized he couldn’t escape, he might burn his essence and fight to the death.

Combined with the remnants of the previous Demonic Cultivators lurking in the shadows… Mu Zhi’an might be in danger.

“I’m going to take a bath and then meet with Master regarding the remnants of the previous Demonic Cultivators and a… private matter,” Mu Zhi’an said.

By ‘bath’, he meant a medicinal bath to accelerate his Vessel’s recovery.

“What do the remnants of the previous Demonic Cultivators have to do with the Book Pavilion…?” Wei Mengrou looked at him with a puzzled expression.

“The Empress personally set up a formation in the Jade Pool before leaving. No one can enter now,” Mu Zhi’an said slowly. “As for the Rebirth Water, they have no chance of obtaining it.”

Obtaining Rebirth Water from the Forbidden Zone was as difficult as ascending to heaven.

Even Mu Zhi’an had only managed to acquire it because he was the Forbidden Zone’s future son-in-law, combined with Ye Lingxuan’s persuasion and other factors.

“The elders in the sect are determined to eliminate the remnants of the previous Demonic Cultivators to prevent any further trouble.”

Mu Zhi’an paused, then continued, “If rumors of me possessing the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit were to spread at this time, what do you think those remnants would do?”

“Attack you?”

Mu Zhi’an shook his head. “Within the sect, they can’t do anything to me with so many peak masters around.”

“So, they’ll target someone else.”

He glanced at Wei Mengrou’s long legs, accentuated by her thin yellow dress, and suddenly said, “Mengrou, let’s make a bet.”

“Bet on what?” Wei Mengrou asked, a hint of suspicion in her eyes as she saw Mu Zhi’an’s gentle smile.

“If I can eliminate the remnants of the previous Demonic Cultivators, you’ll obey one of my commands. If not, I’ll obey one of yours. How does that sound?”

Wei Mengrou hesitated, unsure how to respond.

She had a feeling her young master was up to no good.

“Mengrou, don’t we even have that much trust between us? Do you think I would harm you?” Mu Zhi’an sighed dramatically.

After a moment of hesitation, Wei Mengrou nodded. “Fine.”

Looking at the maid’s cold but slightly uneasy expression, Mu Zhi’an smiled innocently.

“It’s a deal.”

His plan to make her wear black silk stockings, her hands covering her chest as she glared at him… was just one step away.

Chapter 229: The Sect Master’s Secret p1

“The Demon Realm Mark is reacting, which means this letter must be from a Demonic Cultivator… And such a strong reaction indicates it’s from the Demon Realm Empress herself.”

“But where did that beautiful snake send this letter from…? From Sister Ying?”

As Mu Zhi’an pondered, he opened the paper crane and read the contents:

“The Primordial Demon Emperor has been sealed by the Jade Empress for over a thousand years, and he’s now a mere flickering flame. But even a spark can ignite a wildfire. The remnants of the previous Demonic Cultivators are sworn enemies of the Western Regions, but the previous Demon Realm had cooperated with the Southern Wilderness. The Southern Wilderness won’t offer help, but if you’re to eliminate the Primordial Demon Emperor, act swiftly and decisively, avoid prolonged battles.”

“The Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox’s strength increases with each battle. If it realizes it cannot escape, it will burn its essence and drag others down with it. Don’t engage it in close combat. You should be safe within the sect with that woman’s protection, but be wary of hidden dangers.”

“Within the sect, the remnants of the previous Demonic Cultivators wouldn’t dare to attack you, but consider external threats as well.”

Her serious tone made it seem like she genuinely wanted to teach me how to defeat the Primordial Demon Emperor…

But how could a mere Core Formation cultivator like me possibly… Despite his inner complaints, Mu Zhi’an’s eyes held a thoughtful glint.

Was the Primordial Demon Emperor truly that formidable, or was the Demon Realm Empress being overly cautious? The Primordial Demon Emperor had been sealed by the Jade Empress for so long, his Spiritual Energy nearly depleted. Yet, the Demon Realm Empress still felt the need to send a warning letter.

It seemed the Primordial Demon Emperor was more resilient than he had imagined…

It also showed how seriously the Empress viewed the threat he posed, wanting to eliminate him as soon as possible.

Mu Zhi’an continued reading:

“The recent death of Young Master Mu has shaken the Eastern Realm. Your little girlfriend seems to care deeply for you. With the protection of the Forbidden Zone and the Two Polarities Sect, you should be safe from harm.”

“However, your own strength is also important. Once bound by the Desolate Time Lock, escape is difficult. Take care.”

The last part sounded more like a tease, but Mu Zhi’an hadn’t expected the Demon Realm Empress to be so gossipy, even mentioning such a thing.

“Why is she so concerned about me, even reminding me to be careful?” Mu Zhi’an wondered after finishing the letter.

“The Demon Realm Empress is quite thorough. Despite being far away, she’s observant… If I end up with her, will she instantly catch me if I cheat? And she seems to be able to read minds. That’s a bit dangerous…”

“Besides, her charm is unparalleled… What if she uses it on me? Wouldn’t I be doomed?”

As Mu Zhi’an’s thoughts spiraled, he suddenly slapped his forehead. Why am I worrying about this now? Don’t I have enough trouble already?

If things got any more unstable, he might actually end up locked up in a dark room.

Although the girls around him were kind and cared for him, their recent reactions had been a bit alarming.

He needed to stabilize the situation before considering anything else.

…

Mu Zhi’an flew towards Two Polarities Peak on his sword. Perhaps anticipating his arrival, the peak’s formations were deactivated, allowing him entry.

He entered the familiar pavilion, where the Sect Master was already seated, leisurely sipping tea and playing Go against herself.

Mu Zhi’an didn’t interrupt. He observed the Go board.

With every move she made, a white stone would automatically appear on the board, as if someone was playing against her. It was quite fascinating.

He caught a whiff of a faint, sweet fragrance.

Shang Yanfei was dressed in a black dress embroidered with light blue flowers, exuding an air of elegance. Her long hair cascaded down her back, and her ample bosom strained against the fabric of her dress. She seemed to be wearing light makeup, looking even more beautiful than he remembered.

Could it be that she dressed up for me… Mu Zhi’an thought, amused.

As Shang Yanfei made another move, he spoke, “Sect Master.”

“Have a seat,” she said without looking up.

Mu Zhi’an sat down opposite her and said respectfully, “Thank you for saving me, Sect Master. I will repay this debt, even if it means becoming your servant.”

Shang Yanfei paused her game and looked at him, a faint smile in her eyes. “You died saving the Jade Empress. It was only right for me to help you.”

Mu Zhi’an hesitated for a moment. “Regarding this matter, there’s something I don’t understand.”

Seeing that she didn’t speak, he continued, “The Primordial Demon Emperor has been making frequent moves recently. If he realizes he can’t obtain the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit and the Rebirth Water, he will surely burn his essence. In that case, the Eastern Realm might descend into chaos.”

After much deliberation, Mu Zhi’an decided to bring this issue to the Sect Master.

The Primordial Demon Emperor was a Dao Integration cultivator. He couldn’t be dealt with through schemes alone. Even a severely injured Dao Integration cultivator was a force to be reckoned with.

“What do you think should be done?” Shang Yanfei set down her Go piece, narrowed her eyes, and looked at him intently.

Mu Zhi’an hesitated for a moment. “If the Primordial Demon Emperor burns his essence, it will depend on whether the other powerful beings can suppress him. If not, there might be massive casualties.”

“Besides, the remnants of the previous Demonic Cultivators might also make their move soon.”

As he spoke, Mu Zhi’an observed the Sect Master’s expression. She remained calm, her eyes flickering as if pondering his words. Then, a faint smile appeared on her lips.

“The peak masters and elders are currently at the Enforcement Hall, discussing plans to capture the remnants of the previous Demonic Cultivators. If you have any ideas, you can go there later,” Shang Yanfei said with a smile.

Mu Zhi’an shook his head. “I’m just a lowly disciple. My petty tricks might not be useful in such a grand plan.”

“Don’t be so modest. You were able to navigate between the sect and the Demon Realm in the past. You must have some skills,” Shang Yanfei said with a chuckle.

She really knows everything, but she never reveals anything… Mu Zhi’an thought, feeling a chill down his spine.

“You don’t need to worry about the Primordial Demon Emperor. If possible, just focus on helping the sect eliminate the remnants of the previous Demonic Cultivators,” Shang Yanfei said.

Then, she changed the subject. “The Southern Wilderness and the Western Regions will both send participants to the Ascension Ceremony. Are you confident?”

Mu Zhi’an shook his head. “As a mere third-grade Core Formation cultivator, I can’t say I’m confident.”

He paused, then continued, “However… I have faith in the talented disciples within our sect.”

The powerful beings from the Southern Wilderness and the Western Regions wouldn’t have proposed the wager if they weren’t confident.

The Western Regions and the Southern Wilderness might not be as prosperous as the Eastern Realm, but that didn’t mean their geniuses were inferior.

After all, the ‘evil deities’ of the Southern Wilderness were physically stronger than human cultivators. This difference only narrowed after reaching the Nascent Soul Realm.

But Shang Yanfei wouldn’t have accepted the challenge if she wasn’t confident.

No one would have guessed that the key to this competition wasn’t the sect’s talented disciples, but an unassuming figure on the sidelines.

Mu Zhi’an’s Innate Celestial Furnace would be the deciding factor in the Ascension Ceremony.

They chatted for a long time. Shang Yanfei seemed to care for the young cultivator, probably because he was a disciple of the sect.

Seeing that it was getting late, Mu Zhi’an excused himself.

He had been hearing terrifying thunderclaps since he arrived, indicating that the Jade Empress’s Primordial Spirit Tribulation was reaching its peak.

Once she overcame it, the Eastern Realm would have another Dao Integration cultivator!

As Mu Zhi’an left Two Polarities Peak, Shang Yanfei resumed her game of Go.

Not long after, Lan Mulian, dressed in a white dress, her aura as cold as snow, arrived at the pavilion and greeted the Sect Master.

“Master, was someone here just now?” Lan Mulian asked hesitantly.

“You already know, don’t you?” Shang Yanfei glanced at her disciple with a faint smile. “If you go after him now, you might still catch him.”

“I have nothing to say to him.” Lan Mulian paused, then looked at her stunning master. “Should we prepare the sect’s formations in advance?”

The Two Polarities Sect had a powerful formation. Each of the nine main peaks served as a formation node, and the peak masters could activate the formation together.

Lan Mulian bringing this up now clearly indicated she knew about the Primordial Demon Emperor.

“I’ve already instructed them to prepare,” Shang Yanfei said, picking up a Go piece with a smile.

“He won’t be able to cause much trouble.”

“Is that also the result of divination?” Lan Mulian asked.

“There’s no need for divination,” Shang Yanfei replied calmly.

Then, she added softly, “If you don’t know the future, it won’t change.”

“But once you divine the future and become aware of it, the outcome might be altered.”

“If the outcome can be changed, even I might be powerless to stop it.”

“Therefore, it’s better not to divine the future.”

Lan Mulian hesitated. “Are there things even Master can’t do?”

In the eyes of the Two Polarities Sect disciples and even elders from other Primordial Clans, the Sect Master was incredibly mysterious and powerful. As long as she was around, the Eastern Realm wouldn’t fall.

Even Mu Zhi’an still held a certain awe towards her.

Shang Yanfei rested her chin on her hand, her clear eyes like a deep pool, looking at her disciple.

“Of course.”

“I’m not invincible.” She smiled.

Lan Mulian fell silent, her gaze lingering on the white-gold chain hanging from her master’s wrist, hidden beneath her sleeve.

Shang Yanfei had always worn this chain.

And it was a chain that bound her.

—

Chapter 228: Mu Zhi’an’s Sense of Crisis p2

…

Time flew by, and two more days passed.

During this time, Mu Zhi’an spent most of his days meditating and cultivating in his room, refining the two eighth-grade pills.

His previously injured body had mysteriously healed itself while he was unconscious. He didn’t know how it happened, but he suspected the Jade Empress had done something.

However, she refused to explain when he asked, so he didn’t press further.

Everyone needed their privacy.

Two days later, a vast tribulation descended upon the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

Mu Zhi’an’s third-grade Core Formation Tribulation!

He had jumped from the second-grade to the third-grade in just a few days. If the outside world knew, they would be stunned.

Such a cultivation speed was simply monstrous.

Of course, if other cultivators knew the truth, they would probably curse him for wasting such precious resources!

Eighth-grade pills, if used by Nascent Soul cultivators, could potentially grant them enlightenment and a trace of Dao. Even if they couldn’t reach the Dao Integration Realm, they would still be far stronger than their peers.

The Nirvana Pill, the Soul Nourishing Pill, and the Soul Returning Pill – three eighth-grade pills in total. Apart from the first one, which the Jade Empress had fed him, Mu Zhi’an had consumed the other two like beans.

The first pill, the Nirvana Pill, had strengthened his body. The other two had nourished and enhanced his consciousness.

Although his overall strength hadn’t increased significantly, his foundation had been solidified.

If it weren’t for his accidental ‘death’, he wouldn’t have been able to use the Nirvana Pill, and the effects of the Soul Returning Pill and the Soul Nourishing Pill wouldn’t have been maximized.

His death had truly been a blessing in disguise. Thanks to the three eighth-grade pills, his physique and consciousness were now comparable to a peak Core Formation cultivator.

Boom!

Pink peach blossoms swayed in the wind in front of the Pilgrimage Palace. It was almost winter, but the peach blossoms here were still in full bloom.

Dark clouds gathered in the sky, and thunder roared.

A few scattered cultivators watched the tribulation unfold.

Tribulations were a common sight for sect disciples, so not many were drawn to this one.

However, those who witnessed the tribulation at the Pilgrimage Palace were stunned, their eyes filled with disbelief.

“If I remember correctly, wasn’t there a rumor a few days ago that Junior Brother Mu was killed after leaving the sect? Why is he…”

The news of Mu Zhi’an’s ‘death’ had spread throughout the sect. According to the initial rumors, he had died heroically while defending the Jade Pool from the two Primordial Clans colluding with Demonic Cultivators, sacrificing himself to help the Jade Empress overcome her tribulation.

This news had earned him the respect of many within the sect, painting him in a new light.

Mu Zhi’an had always been handsome and popular with the female disciples. The news of his heroic death, as it spread, became somewhat embellished.

In the eyes of some, he had become a tragic hero, righteous and fearless in the face of powerful enemies.

But now…

This supposed tragic hero was alive and well, undergoing his tribulation in front of the Pilgrimage Palace?

If this world had news, the trending topics would probably be:

#MuZhiAnDidHisBest
#WhatAreTheOtherPrimordialClansDoing
#WhyDidntTheOtherClansHelp

And after discovering he wasn’t actually dead:

#DemonicCultivatorsMood
#MuZhiAnIsAlive

“If I remember correctly, Junior Brother Mu was only at the first-grade Core Formation Realm when he left the sect? It hasn’t even been a month, and he’s already at the third-grade…?”

After a brief silence, someone finally spoke, breaking the spell.

“And didn’t they say Junior Brother Mu was dead? How is he…”

“Are there really ghosts in this world…?”

“Are you stupid? This is the Two Polarities Sect! Forget about ghosts, even if they existed, could they undergo tribulations?”

Suddenly, someone pointed towards the woman inside the Pilgrimage Palace. “Speaking of which, is there someone else inside the Pilgrimage Palace?”

Normally, one shouldn’t approach someone undergoing a tribulation, as they might be caught in the crossfire.

The lightning from Mu Zhi’an’s tribulation had been too bright, blinding everyone. They hadn’t noticed until now, after the tribulation had subsided, that there was a woman inside the Pilgrimage Palace, watching Mu Zhi’an’s tribulation from close range?!

Wasn’t she afraid of being struck by lightning?!

As the disciples were pondering this, Mu Zhi’an had already descended from the sky and landed before the woman in the green dress, whispering something to her.

“It seems like they know each other?” someone said, noticing their interaction.

“This Junior Brother Mu… His skills with women are truly impressive,” a senior brother sighed with genuine admiration, feeling a surge of inspiration to learn Mu Zhi’an’s ways.

Of course, some scoffed, believing that cultivators should focus on their cultivation and that relationships would only hinder their progress.

However, they still couldn’t help but steal glances at the elegant woman in the green dress.

Even from her back, her graceful figure suggested that she was a stunning beauty.

“Junior Brother Mu is coming out,” someone said, seeing Mu Zhi’an flying away from the Pilgrimage Palace on his sword.

Sensing the gazes of the surrounding disciples, Mu Zhi’an cupped his fists and said, “Greetings, senior brothers and sisters.”

“Junior Brother Mu… Are you a human or a ghost?” a timid senior sister asked cautiously.

“Of course I’m human. Can’t you see my shadow on the ground? Do ghosts have shadows?” Mu Zhi’an chuckled helplessly.

Then, sensing the faint but terrifying aura behind him, he continued, “My story is a bit long. I’ll tell you all about it another time. It’s best for you to leave this area now. Someone else is about to undergo a tribulation here.”

“Don’t joke, Junior Brother Mu. Even a Nascent Soul Tribulation wouldn’t affect us from this distance. You don’t need to worry,” a senior brother said with a gentle smile.

Boom!

As soon as he finished speaking, the sunlight that had returned after Mu Zhi’an’s tribulation was once again obscured by pale clouds. A thunderous roar, seemingly echoing throughout the Eastern Realm, reverberated from the Pilgrimage Palace.

The laughter died down, and the disciples stared at the woman in the green dress in the sky with a mixture of shock and uncertainty.

Normally, even a Nascent Soul Tribulation wouldn’t emit such a terrifying aura…

“Could it be a Dao Integration…?”

As someone voiced this guess, another person shook his head. “The current laws of heaven and earth don’t allow for the emergence of Dao Integration cultivators. This shouldn’t be a Dao Integration Tribulation.”

“Then could it be a Dao—”

What was meant to be a joke suddenly struck a chord with the speaker. He looked up at the woman in the green dress, her body enveloped in moonlight. After a moment of stunned silence, he blurted out,

“…The Jade Empress!”

Realization dawned upon the other disciples almost instantly.

This was the Jade Empress’s Primordial Spirit Tribulation!

This woman in the green dress was the Jade Empress?!

This thought struck them like a bolt of lightning. They all instinctively backed away.

Even if the Jade Empress could control her Dao Integration Tribulation and prevent it from damaging the Pilgrimage Palace, they might still be affected. They had to distance themselves as much as possible.

But why was Mu Zhi’an with the Jade Empress…?

At this moment, a strange thought entered the minds of many disciples. Their gazes remained fixed on the elegant figure of the Jade Empress, their eyes filled with admiration, regardless of their gender.

Mu Zhi’an retreated to a secluded corner, also watching the Jade Empress’s flawless beauty.

His eyes held no admiration. He simply observed her graceful figure, accentuated by the strong wind, and wondered if he should try to ‘suppress’ her tonight.

Suddenly, he felt as if something was locking onto him. Two paper cranes flew towards him silently.

A letter from Senior Sister…?

But… how did she know I was at the Pilgrimage Palace?

Mu Zhi’an reached out and caught the two letters, opening them.

The contents of the letters were revealed.

The first one was from the Sect Master, instructing him to go to Two Polarities Peak immediately.

The other one… wasn’t from his senior sister, nor was it from the Sect Master.

As soon as he opened the second crane, Mu Zhi’an felt a slight burning sensation from his Demon Realm Mark.

…A letter from the Demon Realm Empress.

Dao : Refers to the ultimate truth, the fundamental principle, or the underlying reality that governs the universe. It’s the source of all power, wisdom, and enlightenment.

Chapter 228: Mu Zhi’an’s Sense of Crisis p1

Pill Tribulation. From fifth-grade pills onward, every newly refined pill would face a tribulation.

In a sense, the quality of pills a Pill Emperor could refine was directly linked to their cultivation level.

Seventh-grade pills and above required at least a Nascent Soul cultivator to refine.

There were many Pill Emperors within the Two Polarities Sect, but only a handful could refine seventh-grade pills or higher.

The one who had refined the eighth-grade Soul Returning Pill this time was Yu Ziyan, the peak master of Dao Peak.

Vast tribulation clouds gathered above Dao Peak, and the entire peak was abuzz with discussions.

“Judging by the tribulation clouds, it’s at least a seventh-grade pill. When did Master obtain an Imperial-Grade Medicinal Herb… And what kind of pill did she refine?” Many disciples whispered amongst themselves.

“Junior Sister Lingxuan, do you know what’s going on?” A senior brother looked at Ye Lingxuan, who had just arrived at Dao Peak.

Hearing this, many other disciples also turned their attention to Ye Lingxuan.

Even now, many were still unaware of her background, but that didn’t affect their fondness for her.

Her beauty was one factor, but her polite and reserved demeanor was another major reason.

Many within Dao Peak admired Ye Lingxuan, including some female cultivators.

“Junior Sister Lingxuan is Master’s favorite disciple. Perhaps she refined this pill for her,” a senior brother guessed with a chuckle.

Ye Lingxuan shook her head with a demure smile. “I’m not sure about the specifics.”

Then, she excused herself and headed towards the main hall.

Yu Ziyan was already waiting inside. Dressed in a thin Daoist robe, she was breathtakingly beautiful. A bright red cinnabar dot adorned her forehead. Sensing the arrival of the two sisters, she opened her eyes and smiled.

“You never come when I ask you to, but you’re surprisingly punctual this time.”

“It seems Mu Zhi’an is truly important to you both.” Her tone was gentle and teasing, like a master speaking to her disciples.

Ye Qian blushed and replied softly, “I was just worried that Brother Mu’s consciousness might be affected if we delayed any longer, so…”

“Alright, you don’t need to explain. Take this pill to him,” Yu Ziyan said warmly.

Her voice was soothing, capable of calming even the most restless heart.

The two sisters, who had been anxious about Mu Zhi’an, gradually calmed down under the influence of her voice.

“Qian’er, stay for a moment. I have some questions for you,” Yu Ziyan said.

“What is it, Master?” Ye Qian asked.

“Don’t worry, it won’t take long.” Yu Ziyan glared at her disciple playfully. Ye Qian was usually obedient, but now she was clearly eager to see Mu Zhi’an and reluctant to stay.

Ye Qian nodded obediently.

Ye Lingxuan took the small wooden box that flew over from the lotus pond and said with a smile, “Master, I’ll head to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony now.”

She bowed to her master once more, bid farewell to her sister and master, and left Dao Peak, flying towards the Jade Glass Palace.

…

Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

Mu Zhi’an was already awake. He felt that his previously weak consciousness had been nourished. His body felt warm and comfortable.

But for some reason, he felt slightly tired…

Sunlight streamed into the quiet courtyard. Flowers and trees bloomed year-round, and a pavilion stood by the shimmering pond.

Mu Zhi’an sat in the pavilion, sipping tea brewed by his maid.

Although his accidental ‘death’ had been a harrowing experience, it wasn’t without benefits.

Besides the Soul Returning Pill, it had also made him appreciate the people around him more… and their attitude towards him had also softened.

For example, his maid had never brewed tea for him before, but after this incident, she had finally started acting like a proper maid, which touched Mu Zhi’an.

Bai Ruoxi, breathtakingly beautiful, sat beside him, dressed in a white palace dress. Her face was pale, her lips full, and a few strands of hair fell across her face, adding to her languid beauty.

She observed Mu Zhi’an with concern and said softly, “Mu Lang, your body seems weaker than before, but your consciousness seems to have been nourished. How did Senior Jade Empress do it?”

Mu Zhi’an shook his head. “I was unconscious for those two days, so I’m not sure.”

He glanced towards a certain room.

The Jade Empress was currently in seclusion, preparing for her upcoming Primordial Spirit Tribulation.

Bai Ruoxi gazed at Mu Zhi’an’s handsome profile. After a moment of hesitation, she smiled gently. “As long as your body recovers, that’s all that matters.”

Mu Zhi’an nodded in agreement.

He was truly grateful for his survival.

It was understandable that the Nascent Soul cultivator who attacked him hadn’t noticed his lingering consciousness, protected by the Turtle Breath Pill.

However, the fact that the Master of the Forbidden Zone, the Jade Empress, and the others hadn’t sensed it either was strange.

Logically, they should have been able to detect the consciousness of a deceased Core Formation cultivator immediately.

Could it be that the Turtle Breath Pill could even conceal his consciousness from the Jade Empress and the others?

It was possible, but highly unlikely.

After pondering for two days, Mu Zhi’an could only think of one explanation.

—Reincarnator.

Someone had anticipated his death and, before it happened, had intervened, defying fate to preserve his soul and shield him from divination, preventing the Jade Empress and the others from detecting his consciousness.

He didn’t know who this person was.

But he was certain it was one of the girls he knew.

Because, so far, all the titles he had acquired, apart from the initial three, were obtained through his interactions with the ‘protagonists’.

But who was this Reincarnator…?

Mu Zhi’an looked at his personal interface, lost in thought.

First, Reincarnator, then Heaven’s Protection… Could it be Ling Long?

No, she was too innocent and couldn’t hide her thoughts. If she were a Reincarnator, she would have revealed herself by now…

“Brother Mu!”

Ye Lingxuan’s clear and melodious voice brought Mu Zhi’an back to reality. He turned to look at her.

Dressed in a purple dress, her face round and delicate, she exuded an air of elegance and tranquility. She stood beside him, handing him a small wooden box.

“This is the Soul Returning Pill. Master asked me to deliver it to you.”

In a sense, the Soul Returning Pill had a similar effect to the Soul Nourishing Pill. The former could restore a fragmented consciousness to its complete state, slowly repairing any damage.

The latter could accelerate the nourishment process.

With the Soul Returning Pill and the Soul Nourishing Pill he had ‘obtained’ from the Primordial Demon Emperor, Mu Zhi’an’s consciousness would quickly recover.

“Thank you for your trouble,” Mu Zhi’an said with a gentle smile, taking the box.

During his ‘death’, the Forbidden Zone had emerged to investigate the traitors, leading many to speculate about its intentions. However, the truth was that the Forbidden Zone had acted solely for Ye Lingxuan’s sake.

Now that she had inherited the Reincarnated Empress’s legacy, she was naturally valued by everyone in the Forbidden Zone. Whether out of love for their young lady or other reasons, the elders and divine beasts would obey her commands.

Ye Lingxuan shook her head gently, her smile sweet. “It was no trouble at all. I just went to Dao Peak. But you, Brother Mu, not only have to deal with enemies but also keep so many girls happy. You’re the one who has it hard.”

Mu Zhi’an: “…”

“Lingxuan…”

“You don’t need to explain anything to me, Brother Mu. I understand,” Ye Lingxuan said with a faint smile, suppressing the urge to unleash the Desolate Time Lock from her sleeve.

“Explain everything to me after you recover.”

Looking at Ye Lingxuan’s innocent smile under the sunlight, Mu Zhi’an felt a chill down his spine.

It seemed the ‘protagonist’ had become somewhat dangerous after her growth.

Suddenly, he felt someone staring at him. He turned and saw Bai Ruoxi, dressed in a beautiful white dress, her gaze gentle and loving. Her elegant aura complemented the lilies in the courtyard, a perfect blend of a young lady’s innocence and a mature woman’s allure.

“What’s wrong?” Bai Ruoxi blinked and tilted her head, a strand of hair falling across her delicate face.

“…Nothing,” Mu Zhi’an shook his head and smiled, a strong sense of crisis washing over him.

It seemed that after dealing with the Primordial Demon Emperor, he would need to find time to appease the ‘fish’ in his pond…

Enjoying the benefits of being a kept man was great, but if he wasn’t careful, he might end up being restrained by the Heart-Binding Lock, the Desolate Time Lock, or even the Jade Empress’s vines.