Category: It turns out, they are the protagonists

Chapter 136: Ling Long Lives in the Garden of Heavenly Harmony?! p1

Mu Zhi’an entered the pavilion, following the path towards Ye Lingxuan’s room in the dim moonlight. But she wasn’t there.

“Strange… Where did my Lingxuan go?” She shouldn’t be sleeping so early. He had planned to comfort her tonight. But she was nowhere to be found. He walked down the hallway, heading towards the study.

Meanwhile, in the candlelit study, Zhou Cang looked at Ye Lingxuan, his voice laced with suspicion. “Is he the reason why you don’t want to leave, Miss?”

She tapped her finger against the table, her voice calm. “He’s the Mu family’s eldest son. He was very kind to me and Qian’er during the entrance exams.”

He frowned. “Even so, it’s inappropriate for a man to visit your pavilion at night.”

She smiled faintly. “He’s here to see Qian’er. He pursued her back in Tianxuan City. They’re very close now.”

He raised an eyebrow. “But isn’t she still on Dao Peak?”

“He doesn’t know that, does he?” she replied, her voice indifferent.

He frowned, sensing something off. He even had a suspicion, but he dismissed it as unlikely. She wasn’t the type to fall for someone so easily. He had often heard the name “Ye Yu” mentioned back in the clan. He was a talented young man from Tianxuan City, who had suffered a setback but had recovered, his talent even stronger than before. He was a formidable opponent. But he had never heard of Mu Zhi’an. The Mu Zhi’an of the past was just a womanizing wastrel. If he hadn’t awakened his memories, he would probably be irrelevant by now.

“Do you doubt my words?” she asked, turning to look at them, her gaze sharp.

“We wouldn’t dare, Miss,” they replied quickly.

She nodded, satisfied, about to dismiss them, when a voice called out from outside.

“Lingxuan, why are you still in the study so late?”

She stiffened, feeling their gazes upon her, and she sighed inwardly, looking up to see Mu Zhi’an standing at the window, his handsome face framed by the moonlight, his smile gentle and welcoming, his hand raised in a wave. He walked towards the study.

She glanced at the two men behind her, her voice calm. “Leave. Don’t enter this pavilion without my permission.”

Zhou Cang frowned. “Miss, it’s not appropriate to allow a man in at this hour—”

“We’ll take our leave, Miss,” Shen Lao said, interrupting him.

Zhou Cang hesitated, then said, “I trust you have discretion, Miss. You’re blinded by love because you haven’t experienced enough. Once you’ve seen more of the world—”

“Once I’ve seen more of the world, I’ll realize how wonderful Brother Mu is?” she asked, her voice laced with a playful challenge, no longer bothering to hide her feelings.

He was speechless, caught off guard. He had come here intending to warn Ye Yu. But it seemed his true opponent wasn’t Ye Yu, but a young man he had never even heard of! What was so special about this Mu Zhi’an, besides his handsome face?!

He was about to speak, but Shen Lao placed a hand on his shoulder, shaking his head, silencing him. Then he led the stunned young man out of the pavilion.

Mu Zhi’an entered the study, seeing her sitting at the table, her long hair flowing freely, her figure slender and graceful, her back alluring. She turned to look at him, smiling. “What brings you here so late?”

He glanced around, then took a seat beside her, his voice soft. “You’re always with Qian’er. She’s not here these past few days, and I was worried about you.”

She chuckled. “I’m not a child. You’re worrying too much.”

“I can’t help it.” He leaned closer, and she smiled, watching him, but as his face drew near, her eyes widened with a sudden panic, her lips parting slightly. “What… what are you doing…?”

He didn’t answer, simply leaning in, his voice a low whisper against her ear. “Was someone here just now?”

Her surprise quickly faded, replaced by a wave of shock. She looked at him, her eyes wide. He smiled, meeting her gaze. He had sensed another presence as soon as he had entered the study. He might not have noticed before, but now, with his pseudo-Natural Spirit Body, he was incredibly sensitive to spiritual energy.

She nodded silently. “My family sent someone to retrieve me. But I told them I would return in half a year.”

“Who’s your family?” he asked, curious.

She hesitated, then looked at him, her voice soft. “Can I… not tell you…?” Her tone was pleading, a stark contrast to her usual commanding demeanor. She was worried he might withdraw if he knew about her background, that their relationship might change. Of course, she didn’t understand his true nature… As long as she was beautiful, he wouldn’t withdraw.

He smiled. “It’s fine. Tell me when you’re ready. Did they leave?”

She nodded. “For now.” She frowned, clearly displeased by their interruption of her new life at the sect. “I’ll make sure they behave.” She said, her voice regaining its usual coldness.

He looked at her, chuckling. “You’re so fierce, Lingxuan.”

She glared at him, her voice soft. “Don’t tease me. I’m in a bad mood.”

“Then let’s improve your mood,” he said.

“It’s not that easy,” she murmured.

“If you can be upset by a couple of irrelevant people, why can’t you be happy because of someone else?” he asked, smiling. “I came to see you because I was worried. Can’t you at least smile?”

She stared at him, his words echoing in her mind, her expression filled with a sudden wonder. He took her hand, his touch gentle.

“Are you feeling better now?” he asked softly.

The candlelight flickered, illuminating her eyes, their beauty captivating, and after a long silence, she snapped out of her thoughts, blushing, her gaze meeting his. She allowed him to hold her hand, her voice soft. “Are you upset that I keep things from you, Brother Mu?”

He squeezed her hand, enjoying her warmth and the smooth texture of her skin, his voice reassuring. “I trust you, no matter what.”

Her eyes filled with tears, and she looked at him, her vision blurring, then she suddenly tried to pull her hand away. But he held on tight, refusing to let go.

“Don’t… I can’t betray Qian’er—”

He placed a finger against her lips, silencing her. “We’ll figure it out later. Don’t talk about that now. There’s only you and me here, right?”

She lowered her eyes, accepting his words, her hand still in his.

After a while, he said goodbye, noticing that it was getting late. She didn’t stop him, watching as he disappeared into the night, a faint smile playing on her lips.

He was right. If she could be upset by certain things, why couldn’t she be happy because of him?

Chapter 135: Ye Lingxuan’s Background

Dao Peak, Dexin Hall.

Mu Zhi’an entered the grand hall, following a disciple to a simply furnished room. Yu Ziyan, the peak lord of Dao Peak, waited for him. The room was warm and inviting, filled with the fragrance of sandalwood. Yu Ziyan sat at a table, dressed in a luxurious robe, tea and snacks already laid out, a smile playing on her lips. She looked to be in her late twenties, her beauty both mature and alluring, her figure accentuated by her white robes.

“Cultivation truly has its benefits. You can’t even tell her age… Nascent Soul cultivators are truly unfathomable,” He quickly looked away, bowing respectfully. “Greetings, Senior!”

She looked up at him, her eyes sparkling, gesturing for him to take a seat. “Are you settling in well at the library? If not, you can always come to Dao Peak.”

“She’s openly trying to poach me?” He replied politely, “Master Yan has been very kind to me. I have no intention of leaving.” After all, his sect token was marked with the words “Inner Disciple of the Library.” Leaving wouldn’t be easy. And Yan Ruyu had just given him a second-grade formation. He was a grateful person; he wouldn’t betray her so easily.

She nodded, unsurprised, sipping her tea, her smile gentle. “What brings you here?”

He nodded. “I wanted to ask about my servant girl.”

She trailed her finger along the rim of her teacup. “You mean her destiny…?”

He nodded, and she chuckled. “The peak lord of Metamorphic Jewel Peak came to see me about that. Her destiny… it doesn’t seem natural…”

He looked up at her, surprised. “Destiny can be worsened after birth?”

“If Senior Ling Long can bestow destiny, there must also be secret techniques that can curse someone with terrible luck,” she replied.

“Do you know how to break such a curse?” he asked, his voice filled with a hopeful eagerness.

She shook her head. “I’ve only heard rumors. I’ve never seen it myself.” Seeing his disappointment, she smiled. “If you’re concerned about your servant girl, I can investigate it for you.”

“He was valuable enough to warrant her attention. He had Ling Long’s backing, his own talent was promising, and he was a Vessel… There were plenty of reasons to help him…”

His eyes lit up with gratitude. “Thank you, Senior! I’ll do anything to repay you…!”

She studied him, a faint smile playing on her lips. “You can leave now. I’ll have someone investigate it. I’ll inform you if we find anything.”

He stood up to leave, then he paused, turning to look at her. “Senior, are there many disciples who visit the Pilgrimage Palace for dates?”

She shook her head. “Not many. Most disciples are either cultivating or completing missions for the sect.”

He relaxed, nodding. “I won’t disturb your meditation any longer, Senior. Farewell.” If there weren’t many disciples at the Pilgrimage Palace, it meant his date wouldn’t attract attention. He didn’t need to do anything. He could simply enjoy his date tomorrow.

…

He left Dao Peak, but he didn’t return to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony. He went to Boundless Sea Peak, waiting outside the main hall until Bai Ruoxi finally emerged. She wore a white dress, her ample bosom straining against the fabric, her embroidered shoes silent against the ground, her aura cold and elegant. She seemed surprised to see him, a faint smile playing on her lips as she approached him.

“Why are you here?” Her usual coldness seemed to have softened.

He looked into her eyes. “I just wanted to pick you up. Is that not allowed?”

She blushed, nodding shyly. “Of course it is…” She glanced at the black sword beneath his feet. “What’s that…?”

“Mengrou gave it to me. It can carry me for an hour,” he replied, chuckling. He noticed the other disciples watching them, their gazes filled with hostility, and he said, “Let’s go back.”

She nodded, summoning her flying sword. He wrapped his arms around her waist, and she glanced at him, her eyes filled with a playful exasperation.

“The sword’s time limit is almost up. You don’t want your boyfriend to fall off a cliff, do you?” he explained, his voice serious, but she suspected his motives were less pure…

She didn’t say anything, accepting his embrace.

They flew towards the Jade Glass Palace, him enjoying her warmth and ample bosom. “She truly is magnificent… He had confirmed it multiple times, but he still couldn’t help but feel amazed…”

“Do you know what your physique is?” he asked casually.

She shook her head. “I don’t. Why do you ask?”

“Do you feel more comfortable using a sword than other weapons?” he asked, changing the subject.

She looked at him, surprised. “How did you know, Mu Lang?” She swatted his hands away, blushing. They were in the air, but it was still improper to be so affectionate.

“I guessed,” he replied, unfazed, wrapping his arms around her waist again.

“So she truly does have Sword Immortal Protection… One with Sword Immortal Protection, one with Natural Spirit Body… I wonder what Mengrou and Senior Sister Lan have…” he thought to himself. With her extraordinary cultivation speed, Mengrou must have a unique physique. Perhaps she was like him, cursed with terrible luck because of her excessive talent… And Senior Sister Lan… she was a perfect beauty, talented, diligent, kind, and aloof, with a hint of dominance… like a CEO… He wondered if she was also dominant in bed…

“Ruoxi, let’s go see the peach blossoms at the Pilgrimage Palace the day after tomorrow,” he said suddenly.

“The day after tomorrow…?” she echoed. She looked at him, her eyes sparkling, her voice soft. “Will it be a burden for you? I thought you might have invited someone else…”

He stiffened. “Of course not. I only love… You’re the only one I care about, Ruoxi,” he said, meeting her gaze, feeling the Heart-Binding Lock snap shut around his wrist, his back breaking out in a cold sweat.

“That was close… Almost slipped up… This lock is terrifying… I can’t lie to her at all…” And she even locked him up last night… It was fun occasionally, but waking up to this every morning wouldn’t be pleasant… But she was kind. She wouldn’t do that to him.

He looked at her beautiful face, his heart softening, and they returned to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

“What gifts did Peak Lord Yi give you?” he asked, curious.

She opened her hand, revealing her sect token. An ancient formation appeared on its surface. “He said if I find a Celestial Realm I like, I can use this formation to exchange for it.” Then she retrieved a jade slip from her storage ring.

“A second-grade technique?” he asked, surprised.

She nodded, smiling. “He wanted to give me an Eight Treasures Crane, but he couldn’t summon it. And I told him I had already tried Eight Treasures Crane stew, so he gave me this instead.”

“I see. He’s quite generous,” he chuckled. The peak lords were truly willing to spend on talented disciples.

“Mu Lang, I want to study this technique… Let’s go back to my room…” She looked at him, her white dress clinging to her curves, her figure both delicate and alluring, her beauty both innocent and seductive…

“You go ahead. I’ll join you later.”

She looked disappointed, lowering her eyes. “…Alright”

He kissed her softly, savoring her lipstick. “Mmm…”

She pushed him away gently, but he caught her wrist, pulling her close, his embrace firm. She relaxed against him, murmuring, her voice laced with a playful exasperation, “You’re so annoying.”

He chuckled, knowing she didn’t truly mean it. He escorted her to her room, then, after making sure she was meditating and studying the new technique, he left the Garden of Heavenly Harmony and headed towards Ye Lingxuan’s pavilion.

“Qian’er was still in seclusion. He was worried Lingxuan might be lonely. He had to comfort her…”

…

At the Jade Glass Palace, Ye Lingxuan sat in her study, a candle illuminating her delicate features, a book in her hand. The candle flickered. She didn’t look up, simply putting down the book, her voice calm.

“What are you doing here?”

A figure shimmered in the darkness, materializing before her, bowing respectfully. “Miss, the master has sent us to retrieve you…” It was a young man in black robes, his handsome face framed by the shadows, his gaze filled with respect and a hint of adoration.

“There’s still half a year left. Why are you in such a hurry…?” She looked at him, her voice cold. “My father didn’t send you, did he?” Her gaze landed on an elderly man standing in the shadows.

There was a Forbidden Zone in the Eastern Realm, said to be cursed. Those who entered would die within days. But within the Forbidden Zone, there was a substance called Rebirth Water, said to extend one’s lifespan. Even withered herbs could be revived with a few drops. And the ruler of the Forbidden Zone was Ye Lingxuan’s father.

The reason why the Dragon Soaring Tendon had reacted to her was because of her physique, and because she had bathed in Rebirth Water since childhood. A single drop of Rebirth Water was sold for a fortune in the outside world. But for her, it was just bathwater. If others knew, they would be astounded…

“You’re wasting time here, Miss. I dared to request permission from the Grand Elder to bring you back to our clan, to prepare for the Awakening Ceremony in half a year,” the young man replied respectfully.

“Whether I’m wasting time or not is my decision. I’ll return in half a year. Shen Lao, please take Zhou Cang back with you,” she said, her gaze fixed on the elderly man.

Shen Lao hesitated, then bowed. “As you command, Miss.”

But Zhou Cang seemed dissatisfied. He looked at her, his voice laced with a hint of accusation. “Are you reluctant to leave because of Ye Yu, Miss?” He had heard from the elders that Ye Yu was a talented young man. She had grown up in the Ye family. Perhaps she had developed feelings for him…

But she simply replied, her voice indifferent, “It has nothing to do with Brother Ye Yu.” Her tone was so detached that Zhou Cang and Shen Lao were surprised.

“Then why are you refusing to leave? Is it because of Qian’er…?” he asked. “You can bring her back to the Forbidden Zone with you. Our clan will take good care of her.”

She hesitated, about to speak, when she sensed something, glancing towards the window.

“Why is he here again at night…?” She frowned, her expression filled with a mixture of exasperation and… something else…

Zhou Cang noticed the subtle change in her demeanor, the way her eyes had softened.

He looked towards the window, seeing a young man entering the pavilion, and he narrowed his eyes.

It seemed the true reason why she didn’t want to leave wasn’t Ye Yu, or even Ye Qian…

Chapter 134: A Sect Elder Wants Me to Be a Kept Man p2

…

At Two Polarities Peak, Mu Zhi’an arrived on his flying sword, tossing a paper crane into the peak. He waited for a while, then he saw Lan Mulian, her white dress flowing gracefully, her figure accentuated by the new attire.

“Senior Sister.” He looked at her, his eyes filled with a mock adoration.

She studied him, her gaze lingering on the black sword beneath his feet. “Why are you here so early?”

“I’ve been busy these past few days. I saw your letter after the inner disciple selections, and I couldn’t resist…” He hesitated, his voice filled with a mock concern. “I hope I’m not disturbing you…”

“If you’re busy, I can go back. We can go to the Pilgrimage Palace tomorrow…”

She shook her head, smiling faintly. “Come with me.”

She led him towards the pavilion on the back mountain. She poured him a cup of tea, then said, her voice laced with a hint of amusement, “Congratulations on earning Master Yan’s favor. You’re the first…”

He sighed dramatically. “I was surprised myself. I didn’t think I had a chance. But she chose me.”

“She and the peak lord of Dao Peak were fellow disciples. They both cultivate the Dao of natural law, which grants them a strong affinity for spiritual energy. She must have sensed your talent…” she said, her brow furrowing slightly. “But be careful. If your physique is exposed, it will cause trouble…”

“No…” She shook her head. “She might already know your secret. That’s probably why she chose you.”

“What kind of trouble? Dual cultivation?” It didn’t seem like a big deal. He sipped his tea. “You’re right, Senior Sister. I’ll be careful.”

She changed the subject. “You’ll be receiving a generous stipend and abundant resources every month. With diligent cultivation, you could reach Core Formation within half a year. I promised you a gift if you became an inner disciple. Since you’re here, I’ll give it to you now.”

She opened her hand, revealing a delicate box.

He took the box, opening it, and a rich, medicinal fragrance filled the air.

“A Grade Advancement Pill?!” He looked up at her, his eyes widening with surprise.

“Take it. You deserve it,” she replied calmly, her expression unchanged.

He put away the pill, impressed by her generosity. He had heard about Grade Advancement Pills from the elders back in the Mu Manor. They could instantly raise a cultivator’s level, but they were incredibly difficult to refine, requiring rare ingredients.

“Are you still at the peak of Core Formation, Senior Sister?” he asked.

She nodded, then changed the subject. “You have Senior Ling Long’s backing now. No one will bother you about Bai Ruoxi’s demonic aura anymore. I’ve also informed my master.”

“Senior Ling Long is unpredictable. She might leave at any time. It’s best not to make too many enemies within the sect,” she warned.

“I’ve never actively provoked anyone. They’re the ones who keep coming after me,” he said, sighing dramatically.

After finishing his tea, he asked, “Can I visit Two Polarities Peak again?”

She nodded. “If I have time.”

“She might seem cold, but she’s actually quite kind.” He smiled inwardly, then, after chatting for a while longer, he left the peak.

But he didn’t return to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony. He headed towards Dao Peak.

“The peak lord just returned. She’s in seclusion and isn’t seeing anyone,” a female disciple said, blocking his path at the entrance of the main hall.

“Did two female disciples arrive today? One wearing a purple dress, the other in a blue dress? Sisters?” he asked.

She nodded, her eyes filled with curiosity, and he continued, “I’m Qian’er and Lingxuan’s brother. I have something important to discuss with the peak lord. Please inform her.”

She studied him, then nodded, entering the hall and approaching Yu Ziyan, who sat on her throne, her white robes flowing gracefully.

“Peak Lord, there’s a disciple outside who claims to be Ye Lingxuan and Ye Qian’s brother. He requests an audience,” the disciple said, bowing respectfully.

Yu Ziyan opened her eyes, her expression thoughtful, then she looked towards the entrance. A beautiful smile spread across her lips.

“Bring him in.”

Chapter 134: The Elder Wants Me to Be a Kept Man! p1

“This is a problem…” Mu Zhi’an muttered. If he visited Senior Sister Lan at the Pilgrimage Palace tomorrow, what about Lingxuan? But refusing Senior Sister’s invitation would also be troublesome.

He stared at the letter, his mind racing. “She’s acting like a CEO, demanding my presence. No chance to refuse?” Normally, it wouldn’t be a problem, but he already had plans with Lingxuan.

He pondered for a while, then he picked up a brush and began to write. If he couldn’t avoid it, he would take the initiative. He finished writing, put away the letter, and left the room.

He saw a figure approaching in the distance. It was Wei Mengrou, her yellow dress swirling gracefully, her embroidered shoes silent against the ground.

“Mengrou,” he called out, smiling.

She nodded, then studied him, her brow furrowed with concern. “Are you going out? Did something happen?”

“You truly understand me, Mengrou,” he said, his voice filled with mock sincerity. He hadn’t even said anything, and she had already sensed his troubled thoughts. She might seem cold and indifferent, but she truly cared about him.

She ignored his compliment, waiting for his explanation.

“Lingxuan invited me to see the peach blossoms at the Pilgrimage Palace tomorrow,” he said.

She raised an eyebrow, her voice laced with a hint of mockery. “Isn’t that what you wanted, Young Master? A two-timing man like you…” She knew he had been interested in the Ye sisters for a while, but Ye Lingxuan had always been wary of him. Her invitation… it was a dream come true for him.

He sighed dramatically. “But Senior Sister Lan also invited me…”

She stared at him, her voice flat. “You deserve it.”

“You should be helping me, Mengrou,” he protested.

“I’m only responsible for your safety. Everything else is irrelevant.” She added, “If they come after you, it’s not my responsibility to protect you.” After all, if they came after him, it would be his own fault. But with Miss Bai’s personality, she probably wouldn’t attack him. He was clever. He always knew where to draw the line. He might seem reckless, but he always managed to survive.

She handed him a black sword, her voice calm. “This is one of the gifts the peak lord of Metamorphic Jewel Peak gave me. I already have a weapon, so you can have it. It’s been imbued with a spirit. Channel your spiritual energy into it, and it can carry you for an hour,” she explained.

The sword was simple, its surface devoid of any ornamentation, but its blade was sharp, gleaming in the sunlight. Such a sword would be priceless in any auction house. Metamorphic Jewel Peak had only imbued twenty or so treasures with spirits since its founding. And the peak lord had given her two. It showed his sincerity.

He looked at her, his voice filled with mock gratitude. “You’re so kind, Mengrou.” He took her hand, his touch lingering.

She pulled her hand away, her voice cold. “Don’t touch me.”

“It would be better if she bit her lip, clutched her dress, and said, ‘Don’t… touch me…’ with those pleading eyes…” He chuckled, taking the sword. “Thank you.” Then he asked, “Did the peak lord say anything about solving your destiny problem?”

She hesitated, then replied, “He said he needed to think about it. He’ll discuss it with the peak lord of Dao Peak.”

He frowned, his expression thoughtful. “So even Nascent Soul cultivators find her destiny troublesome…?”

“Are you going out now?” she asked, changing the subject.

He nodded, smiling. “I’m… missing Senior Sister Lan, so I’m going to see her.” If he visited her now, he wouldn’t have to go to the Pilgrimage Palace tomorrow.

She seemed to understand his intentions, rolling her eyes. “You’ll regret this someday.”

He chuckled, not responding. He would deal with it when that day came. But it was unlikely to happen. He knew who to be intimate with, and when. If he waited until tomorrow, and Lingxuan and Senior Sister Lan encountered each other… it would be a disaster. No, it would be unmanageable.

Lingxuan had finally warmed up to him, even inviting him on a date. If she saw him with Senior Sister Lan, it would be a problem. So he had to take the initiative. Why wait for disaster to strike? He would simply visit Two Polarities Peak now. It would show Senior Sister Lan how much he missed her, and it would free up his schedule for tomorrow. A perfect solution.

…

At dusk, Shao Le Residence

Yan Ruyu sat sipping tea and reading a book, having just finished meditating, when a guest arrived. The guest was a beautiful woman in white robes, her figure alluring, her eyes both captivating and intimidating, her aura cold and commanding.

“Sister Yu, what brings you to my humble abode?” Yan Ruyu asked, smiling. It was Yu Ziyan, the peak lord of Dao Peak, her status within the Two Polarities Sect exalted. She poured her a cup of tea, gesturing towards a chair.

“It’s been a while, Junior Sister. You seem to be stuck at the third level of Nascent Soul,” Yu Ziyan said, her voice calm, a playful smile playing on her lips.

Yan Ruyu, her demeanor relaxed and alluring, like a noblewoman, glanced at her former fellow disciple, chuckling. “Is that why you’re here, Sister Yu? To discuss such trivial matters?”

Yu Ziyan smiled faintly. “Has your new inner disciple left?”

“I thought you would be eager to keep him here and cultivate your relationship.” Her tone carried a hint of mockery.

Yan Ruyu frowned. “What are you implying, Sister Yu?”

“Mu Zhi’an is an Innate Celestial Vessel, isn’t he?” Yu Ziyan asked, her gaze meeting Yan Ruyu’s, her voice sharp.

“He is,” Yan Ruyu replied calmly, unsurprised. They both cultivated the Dao of natural law, granting them an exceptional sensitivity to spiritual energy. If she had sensed his anomaly, so could Yu Ziyan.

“You’re targeting a new disciple for your own cultivation?” Yu Ziyan asked, her voice laced with disapproval.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about, Sister Yu.” Yan Ruyu sipped her tea, her voice indifferent. “I simply admire his talent. Is it wrong to cherish a gifted disciple?” Seeing Yu Ziyan’s frown, she continued, “An Innate Celestial Vessel is indeed tempting, but I wouldn’t force myself on a child.” Of course, if he initiated something, it would be a different story.

Yu Ziyan studied her, her voice flat. “I won’t interfere with your personal life, but if you do anything that would tarnish the sect’s reputation—”

Yan Ruyu chuckled, interrupting her. “Why don’t you take him then, Sister Yu?”

Yu Ziyan frowned. “I wouldn’t stoop to such methods to advance my cultivation.”

“Then don’t interfere with my guidance of my disciple.” Yan Ruyu trailed her finger along her thigh, beneath her robe, her gaze meeting Yu Ziyan’s, a playful smile on her lips. “Do you truly believe we can’t become a beautiful couple? Or do you doubt my ability to attract a young man?”

She had been wondering if it was wrong to be interested in him. He seemed like a naive young man. She didn’t want to scar him. But Yu Ziyan’s words had angered her, and she was now determined to provoke her.

“If that’s all you came to say, Sister Yu, you can leave.” She smiled. “I know how to guide my disciple.”

Yu Ziyan hesitated, then chuckled. “You might not care, but the three elders of Dao Peak now know his secret. If others find out, you’ll be disgraced within the sect.”

Yan Ruyu scoffed. “You always resort to such petty tactics…” Yu Ziyan had only discovered Mu Zhi’an’s secret after the fact. Otherwise, she would have snatched him before anyone else. Most female elders, if they knew about his Innate Celestial Vessel constitution, would be eager to claim him. Was she truly so pure that she could resist the temptation of a guaranteed breakthrough?

“If there’s nothing else, please leave.” Her words were a dismissal.

She watched as Yu Ziyan departed, her alluring figure disappearing from view, a satisfied smile playing on her lips.

She knew the risks Yu Ziyan had mentioned.

She knew what she had to do…

Chapter 133: A Date, a Date, Another Damn Date!

“Do you have plans tomorrow morning?” he asked.

Seeing his silence, Ye Lingxuan tilted her head, her gaze searching his. Her usual calm demeanor was tinged with a hint of anxiety. No matter how mature she seemed, she was still a young woman, feeling a flutter of nervousness after initiating a date.

“I don’t have plans, but I might after I get back,” he said, looking at her with a forced, gentle smile. “I’ll come pick you up tomorrow.”

He felt a sudden wave of dread. To be safe, he should have refused her invitation. After all, Bai Ruoxi had been present when the peak lord of Dao Peak had mentioned the legend of the Pilgrimage Palace. She was surely interested. She had even invited him there during the inner disciple selections.

He had to deal with this carefully. Tomorrow with Lingxuan, the day after with Ruoxi, and the day after that, Qian’er’s seclusion should be over. And then he could try inviting Mengrou. Even if she rejected him, he would still get a disapproving glare. It was a win-win situation. A good boyfriend had to consider the feelings of every girl, giving them equal attention and affection. It was tiring, but it was worth it… for them.

“You seem unhappy,” she said, her voice laced with a hint of concern. “Did I burden you?”

He snapped out of his thoughts, smiling. “I was just thinking about how to make you happy tomorrow. It’s my first time going on a date.”

She rolled her eyes, scoffing.

“Don’t scoff. Call me Brother Mu,” he said, playfully pinching her nose.

She swatted his hand away, blushing as she noticed the other disciples watching them. “Don’t do that here.”

“So you’re saying I can do it back home?” he asked, sensing an opportunity.

She glared at him, exasperated by his playfulness.

They walked back to the Jade Glass Palace, their footsteps silent against the golden bridge. He escorted her to her pavilion, then, looking around the empty hall, he asked, his voice filled with mock concern, “Are you used to sleeping alone?”

“If not, I can stay with you—”

She felt a flutter in her chest, sensing the warmth in his eyes, but she gently pushed him away. “No, you should go.”

If he stayed the night, who knew what he might try? She wasn’t ready for that. And being intimate with him here… it would make her feel guilty. This place reminded her of Qian’er. She had warned her sister to be careful around him, and now… She sighed inwardly, her heart filled with a mix of emotions.

“I’ll go then. Get some rest. Cultivation is important, but you should also take care of yourself,” he said softly, his gaze lingering on her.

She nodded, and he lingered, chatting with her for a while longer, nurturing their bond before finally taking his leave.

He returned to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony and entered his study, opening his personal interface. The five achievements were clearly displayed.

“I was right. Lingxuan’s Natural Spirit Body and Ruoxi’s Sword Immortal Protection… they’ve become my achievements,” he murmured. But he didn’t understand what the “Pseudo” after them meant. “Does it mean I only received a portion of their physiques?”

He closed his eyes, sensing the surrounding spiritual energy. It seemed more active than before. He could even control a small portion of it, drawing it into his Vessel.

“This physique is overpowered,” he thought to himself, amazed. It was like having a second wind during a battle, even when his spiritual energy was depleted. It was an essential ability for a protagonist, allowing them to fight on par with, or even surpass, those at higher levels. And it also enhanced his cultivation speed and his alchemy.

Sword Immortal Protection was even more straightforward. It granted him an exceptional affinity for swords and allowed him to wield a portion of Bai Ruoxi’s bronze sword’s power.

“So, the closer I am to these girls, the more achievements I gain?” he wondered. If that was the case, it was perfect for his current path. He had been planning to find a wealthy woman to support him, and now these achievements were practically free.

“I wonder if I’ll unlock more achievements if I get closer to Senior Sister Lan,” he thought to himself. “And Mengrou… If I can gain achievements from all of them, even just a portion of their abilities, it would be sufficient.” He studied his interface, lost in thought.

After a moment, he shook his head, clearing his mind. He would take things one step at a time. His current priority was planning tomorrow’s date, and the dates after that. For the next three days, he only had one thing to do: dates, dates, and more damn dates! Fortunately, Qian’er was still in seclusion. Otherwise, tomorrow would be tricky. Taking two sisters on a date at the same time… it wasn’t feasible yet.

He retrieved the second-grade formation from his storage ring: the Hundred Birds Chain Formation. He opened the jade slip, and the formation’s structure and instructions flowed into his mind. It was surprisingly simple, just a brief description and a diagram. But despite its apparent simplicity, he sensed its potential, the countless variations it could generate.

He had studied it, and he felt like he had learned it, but also not. He was confused, but he wasn’t discouraged. Formations were different from cultivation techniques. They required time and understanding. He couldn’t master it overnight. Master Yan had said he could ask her if he had any questions.

He put away the jade slip, stretching.

BOOM!

Thunder rumbled in the distance. He looked up to see storm clouds gathering over a specific area of the sect, lightning flashing through the dark sky. It was a Pill Tribulation, and it seemed to be coming from Two Polarities Peak.

“Someone’s refining pills on Two Polarities Peak?” he wondered. “Is it Senior Sister Lan, or the sect master?” He quickly looked away. He would ask them next time.

Ruoxi and Mengrou weren’t back yet, but Lin Ling was still here… He had to maintain their relationship. He had to keep Senior Lin Ling happy.

He spent an hour preparing some food, then he went to her room, knocking gently. “Senior Lin Ling, I made some snacks. Can I come in?”

There was no response. He knocked again, then opened the door. The room was empty. She had left a message on the table: “Hungry. Went out.”

“No one fed her, so she went to find food?” He placed the steamed buns he had made on the table, then left the room.

He looked up at the sky, sighing. Ruoxi and the others would be back soon, but he was bored. But it was fine. He could use this time to plan his date with Lingxuan. He returned to his study, deciding to make a checklist.

But as he opened the door, he saw a paper crane on his desk. Now that he was in the Two Polarities Sect, messages traveled much faster. He could sense Senior Sister Lan’s aura on the crane.

“She finally replied.” He chuckled, taking a seat, glancing at the sky. The storm clouds over Two Polarities Peak had dissipated. It seemed the pill refinement was over. “I could ask her if she had been the one refining…” He opened the crane.

“Congratulations on becoming an inner disciple. Master Yan rarely recruits disciples. She must see great potential in you.”

“She’s well-informed…” He smiled, continuing to read.

“The path of cultivation is long and arduous. Stay humble and diligent. The elders, including Master Yan, dislike arrogance. Remember that.”

“Her words are filled with a concern that was unusual for her. She must see me as one of her own…” He smiled, his heart warming, then he continued reading.

“I promised you a reward if you became an inner disciple.”

“Come to the Pilgrimage Palace tomorrow. I have a gift for you.”

“She’s so nice, even giving me a gift…” His smile froze, and he stared at the letter, his mind reeling.

“Tomorrow…?”

Chapter 132: Brother Mu, Let’s Go See the Peach Blossoms Tomorrow! p2

…

Could that Dao Peak woman be interested in me…? Why was she staring at me like that…? Mu Zhi’an wondered, feeling her gaze lingering on him as he left the Pilgrimage Palace.

Or did she discover my secret…?

It wasn’t impossible.

An ordinary Nascent Soul cultivator might not have noticed.

But Yu Ziyan was different. She was powerful, and Dao Peak’s cultivation path granted them an exceptional sensitivity to spiritual energy. She might have sensed his two Vessels.

He had felt something off when she had offered to replenish his spiritual energy.

But refusing her offer would have been rude…

And even if she knew his secret, it wasn’t a big deal.

He wouldn’t lose anything. At worst, he would lose some spiritual energy if she approached him…

He reached the library, lost in thought.

The Two Polarities Sect had ten main peaks and two shores…

The library was located on the North Shore.

And the Enforcement Hall was on the South Shore.

He entered the library, completed the necessary procedures, and after waiting for a while, a disciple led him to the back of the building, where they crossed a golden bridge suspended in the air.

After a fifteen-minute walk, they reached a spacious pavilion(Shao Le Residence).

It was his first time seeing Master Yan’s residence. The environment was elegant and peaceful, the sun warm, the breeze gentle, the garden filled with blooming flowers.

The disciple left, and he entered the pavilion, finding Yan Ruyu in a side room.

She seemed to have changed clothes, her figure accentuated by a thin black robe, her hair tied back with a jade hairpin, a few strands framing her face, giving her an air of effortless allure.

Her ample bosom strained against the fabric of her robe, and her long, shapely legs were visible beneath it. Her beauty was both mature and captivating…

She’s not as big as Ruoxi, but she’s close… And she looks so young… He quickly looked away, bowing respectfully.

“Greetings, Master Yan.”

“Come in. There are no outsiders here. You can relax,” she said, smiling, putting down a scroll, then gesturing towards a chair.

“You must be wondering why I chose you as an inner disciple.”

I am, but not really… He chuckled inwardly.

He could sense her favor towards him. And he suspected it was either because she knew about his Vessel, or because she knew about Ling Long…

Of course, he wasn’t certain. It was just a guess…

“I am curious, Master Yan. Would you enlighten me…?”

She studied his handsome face, her eyes filled with a playful warmth, then she shook her head. “You’ll find out eventually… But not now.”

She retrieved a jade slip from her sleeve, placing it on the table.

“I haven’t recruited an inner disciple in a long time, so I don’t have any proper gifts. Take this if you’re interested.”

“You’re too kind, Master Yan. Serving you is an honor. Gifts are unnecessary—”

He glanced at the jade slip, his eyes widening. “A second-grade formation…?”

If he didn’t know how rare second-grade formations were, he would think they were commonplace…

Even elders rarely possessed them.

Only someone like her, the master of the library, could casually produce such a treasure…

Formations in this world were incredibly complex, and second-grade formations were exceedingly rare. They were as valuable as first-grade techniques.

She truly is wealthy…

Well, she’s been in the Two Polarities Sect for a long time. It’s natural for her to have accumulated some wealth… He bowed respectfully. “Thank you, Master Yan! If you ever need anything, I’ll gladly serve you…”

“There’s no need for that,” she replied, her voice softening.

“But… I might need your help sometime…”

She quickly changed the subject. “As an inner disciple, you’ll receive a much higher stipend and more resources than ordinary disciples. And if you have any questions regarding your cultivation, you can always come to me.”

“I’ve accepted you as my disciple. I’ll guide you…”

Master Yan is so nice!

He looked at her, his eyes filled with gratitude.

She nodded, pleased by his sincerity…

She would take things slowly. She wouldn’t mention her cultivation problems until they had built a stronger bond…

And she wasn’t in a hurry.

He was here now. His sect token was marked. Where could he possibly run?

He didn’t realize that while he was busy cultivating his pond, he had inadvertently attracted a shark… And now she was plotting to devour him…

…

After chatting for a while, he finished his tea and excused himself, taking the second-grade formation with him.

As he left the pavilion and approached the library, he saw Ye Lingxuan standing nearby, her purple dress swirling gently in the breeze, her legs slender and graceful, her beauty enhanced by the sunlight.

She seemed to sense his gaze, turning to look at him, smiling. “Young Master Mu.”

He approached her, smiling. “There’s no one else here. You don’t have to call me that. It sounds so distant…”

She hesitated, then murmured softly, “…Brother Mu”

That’s better… He smiled, then glanced around. “Where’s Qian’er?”

“My master is helping her expand her meridians. She’ll be meditating on Dao Peak for the next two days.”

She hesitated, her gaze lingering on his handsome face. “My master said that visiting the Pilgrimage Palace with someone you love can grant you a temporary destiny blessing. It might not last long, but it’s still beneficial for cultivation.”

She blushed, her eyes meeting his, her voice soft.

“If you’re free tomorrow, let’s go see the peach blossoms at the Pilgrimage Palace.”

Chapter 132: Brother Mu, Let’s Go See the Peach Blossoms Tomorrow! p1

Yu Ziyan stared at the young disciple, her eyes filled with understanding and resentment.

She understood why her junior sister had chosen him as an inner disciple. It wasn’t because of his talent, or even Ling Long. She probably didn’t even know about Ling Long. She was interested in his other Vessel.

And her resentment stemmed from her disapproval of Yan Ruyu’s methods.

The path of cultivation was long and arduous. At Nascent Soul, each level was a significant leap, and the third level, in particular, was a notorious bottleneck for countless cultivators. Many elders within the sect were stuck at Nascent Soul, their progress stagnant for years.

Yan Ruyu and Yu Ziyan were among them.

Normally, cultivation involved refining external spiritual energy, absorbing it into one’s Vessel, and when the energy reached a certain level, they would encounter a bottleneck. Breaking through the bottleneck would allow them to advance to the next level.

But the higher their cultivation, the more difficult it became to advance. The bottleneck was like a thin membrane, touchable yet impenetrable.

And that was where a Vessel became invaluable.

Dual cultivating with a Vessel could provide the crucial boost needed to break through.

“She hasn’t changed at all. Still resorting to such underhanded tactics. Even targeting a disciple…”

She felt a surge of disgust towards Yan Ruyu.

This was the Two Polarities Sect! While there had been a few cases of elders forming relationships with disciples, it was rare. And Yan Ruyu’s motives were clearly impure.

But he was now an inner disciple of the library. If she wanted to do something, it would be difficult to stop her.

All she could do was warn him to be careful.

But it was a difficult task. She couldn’t deny that with Yan Ruyu’s beauty and alluring figure, if she beckoned him, few disciples, even inner disciples, could resist.

She would have to improvise.

She studied him, his gentle smile and harmless demeanor hiding a dangerous secret, her thoughts racing.

…

Meanwhile, having chosen their inner disciples, Yi Hao turned to Bai Ruoxi, smiling. “Come to Boundless Sea Peak with me. You can meet your fellow disciples, and I’ll give you some gifts.”

She nodded, then looked at Mu Zhi’an. “I’m going to Boundless Sea Peak.”

He smiled, nodding. He also had to visit the library.

After saying goodbye to Wei Mengrou and the others, he bowed to the peak lords and left the Pilgrimage Palace.

He felt Yu Ziyan’s gaze lingering on him, but he didn’t stop, walking towards the exit.

He saw Ye Yu, who had also been chosen as an inner disciple. It seemed he had joined Dream Drunken Peak.

And another peak lord had chosen someone he knew.

…Huang Manting…

She seemed to notice his gaze, winking playfully, her lips parting slightly.

But he simply nodded politely, his eyes briefly lingering on her alluring lips before looking away.

Ye Yu glared at him, his eyes burning with a competitive fire.

“Do you have a grudge against him?” Ning Yuan, the peak lord of Dream Drunken Peak, asked, looking at the talented young man beside him, a smile playing on his lips.

Ye Yu nodded, his gaze filled with hatred, and Ning Yuan chuckled. “Fighting is forbidden within the sect, but you can always challenge him to a spar. If he accepts, it’s permitted.”

“He won’t accept. He’s a coward,” Ye Yu spat.

Ning Yuan raised an eyebrow, smiling. “Then defeat him fairly at the Ascension Ceremony next year.”

Ye Yu frowned, echoing his words. “The Ascension Ceremony?”

“Every year, the Two Polarities Sect holds an Ascension Ceremony. The top ten disciples receive Dao Comprehension Fruits, which can grant them a breakthrough below Core Formation,” Ning Yuan explained, his hands clasped behind his back.

“The Ascension Ceremony…” Ye Yu clenched his fists, his eyes burning with a renewed determination.

He wouldn’t waste his time seeking revenge now. He would focus on cultivating!

Mu Zhi’an was just an obstacle in his path. He would overcome him!

And then, Lingxuan and Qian’er would know who their true brother was.

And Bai Ruoxi, who had rejected him, she would also learn that…

Thirty years east of the river, thirty years west… Don’t bully the young and poor!

He calmed himself, focusing on his priorities: cultivation, and finding the seal the old man had mentioned.

There was a seal hidden within the Pilgrimage Palace.

And within that seal lay an immense opportunity…!

…

Yu Ziyan watched as Mu Zhi’an disappeared from view, then she turned to the Ye sisters, smiling. “Come to Dao Peak with me. My fellow disciples will explain everything about our peak.”

She was about to leave with them when a voice whispered in her ear, “What were you looking at, Peak Lord? Is there something interesting about that disciple?”

She turned to see a beautiful woman with a red dot between her brows, her aura elegant and refined. It was the elder of Dao Peak’s middle peak.

The nine peaks were divided into middle, side, and guard peaks, each managed by an elder. The peak lord oversaw the entire peak, while the elders managed their respective sections.

Yu Ziyan hesitated, then replied mentally, “Master Yan hasn’t recruited an inner disciple in decades. Aren’t you curious why she chose him so enthusiastically…?”

The three female elders exchanged glances, their expressions filled with confusion.

“Please enlighten us, Peak Lord.”

She spoke, her voice clear and calm, yet her words sent shockwaves through their minds.

“A Vessel?!”

They looked towards the spot where Mu Zhi’an had vanished, their gazes filled with a newfound interest.

Yu Ziyan’s voice, stern and authoritative, echoed in their minds. “Don’t even think about targeting a disciple for your own cultivation. If anyone finds out, you’ll be disgraced.”

They shivered, nodding quickly, their gazes fixed on her, her expression cold and unwavering.

Then the elder of the middle peak asked, “What if Master Yan does something…?”

Yu Ziyan raised an eyebrow, her voice flat. “I’ll warn her against doing anything that would shame the sect.”

“But what if they truly love each other…?”

After all, if Yan Ruyu made a move, who would know?

And who would dare to expose her and offend the master of the library?

Yu Ziyan, her alluring figure accentuated by her white robes, looked up at the sky, then said, her voice calm, “We’ll see.”

Chapter 131: My Secret is Exposed

What was it like to be stared at by a group of old monsters?

Before, Mu Zhi’an wouldn’t have been able to answer that question.

But now, feeling the gazes of the peak lords and elders upon him, he shifted uncomfortably, trying to maintain his smile, but it was becoming increasingly strained.

They were Nascent Soul cultivators.

In the outside world, a single Nascent Soul cultivator could make entire cities tremble.

And now, several of them were staring at him, their auras concealed, yet their presence still carried an immense pressure.

They wouldn’t be so competitive if it were just an ordinary genius.

But Ye Lingxuan and Wei Mengrou were exceptional.

One had a powerful background and extraordinary talent, while the other had reached the sixth level of Core Formation at such a young age.

It was no wonder they were so sought after.

After all, in life, besides wealth and power, there was also fame.

The peak lords had plenty of spirit stones. And the Two Polarities Sect was a powerful force in the Eastern Realm, even in the entire cultivation world. They didn’t lack power either.

So their next goal was fame.

When their disciples left the sect and traveled the world, people would see their extraordinary talents and ask about their masters.

And their disciples’ tribulations would attract widespread attention, further enhancing their fame.

And even if they disregarded fame, their disciples’ performance in the sect tournament would bring them significant benefits.

That was why the inner disciple selections were so competitive.

“Young Friend Mu, Master Yan and I are fellow disciples. If your loved ones join Dao Peak, we can look after each other,” Yu Ziyan, the peak lord of Dao Peak, said, her voice gentle, a smile playing on her lips.

She was beautiful, her features similar to Yan Ruyu’s, but her aura was colder, while Yan Ruyu’s was more intellectual.

Xiang Yan, however, with his fiery temperament, scoffed. “Didn’t you two have a falling out? Would it truly be safe for his little girlfriend to join Dao Peak?”

Ye Lingxuan lowered her eyes, blushing slightly at the term “little girlfriend.”

Yu Ziyan glared at him, then turned to Mu Zhi’an, smiling. “Dao Peak cultivates the Dao, which is closely related to destiny. Your servant girl’s destiny is unusual. If she joins Dao Peak, I’ll personally help her find a solution.”

Mu Zhi’an’s eyes flickered, and he glanced at Wei Mengrou.

For the first time, he was tempted by one of their offers.

But the peak lord of Metamorphic Jewel Peak chuckled. “I can also address destiny issues, and I can offer a spirit imbued treasure that can suppress bad luck.”

They even have something like that…? He glanced at Wei Mengrou, but her expression remained impassive, as if she wasn’t interested.

She wasn’t interested in a treasure that suppressed bad luck.

After all, she already had someone who suppressed her bad luck…

He looked at the peak lords and elders. Not all of them were present. Some had gone to personally invite other disciples.

But there were still five or six peak lords here.

If he made the wrong choice, he might offend someone.

They were all powerful individuals. They wouldn’t be so petty, but they would still feel uncomfortable.

This is tricky…

I thought becoming an inner disciple would solve all my problems, but now they’re dumping this on me…? He sighed inwardly.

Ye Lingxuan watched him silently, her purple dress flowing gracefully, her aura elegant and refined.

Her gaze, as she looked at him, it was the same as always, but there was something different about her eyes.

And Yu Ziyan, the peak lord of Dao Peak, noticed.

Even though she addressed him as “Young Master Mu” in public, she could sense the subtle intimacy between them.

He truly is a charmer…

She smiled, breaking the silence, her voice soft and alluring. “The Pilgrimage Palace is a sacred place for couples.”

“It’s said that if a couple visits this place, they’ll stay together forever. And if you visit with family or friends, you’ll receive a destiny blessing, leading to auspicious encounters.”

“It’s actually true, but it requires sincerity. Most fail to receive the blessing because their feelings aren’t genuine.”

“I can grant you a day to relax here. No one will disturb you.”

Bai Ruoxi frowned, her displeasure evident.

Wei Mengrou glanced at Mu Zhi’an, noticing his stiff expression, and she raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in her eyes.

Ye Lingxuan turned to Yu Ziyan, smiling politely. “Is what you said about my sister true, Peak Lord?”

Yu Ziyan nodded. “I never lie, especially to my disciples.”

Her usually cold tone had softened considerably.

She extended her hand towards Ye Lingxuan.

They clasped hands, and a faint light flashed on Ye Lingxuan’s sect token.

The words “Inner Disciple of Dao Peak” appeared on the back.

With only Wei Mengrou remaining, the peak lord of Metamorphic Jewel Peak seemed anxious. He had prepared for this sect tournament for a long time. If he had resources but no disciples, he would have to wait years for another opportunity.

“I have two spirit imbued weapons,” he said.

“One can suppress bad luck.”

“The other is an exceptional sword, perfectly suited for certain techniques.”

He had originally intended to use one of them to recruit Mu Zhi’an, but Yan Ruyu had snatched him first.

And he had been targeting Wei Mengrou with the other weapon, but she didn’t seem interested.

But she wasn’t interested in the bad luck suppressing weapon, and she didn’t care about the sword meant for her master…?

The answer was no.

She glanced at Mu Zhi’an, then at the black sword in the peak lord’s hand, and she nodded. “I prefer Metamorphic Jewel Peak.”

He smiled, pleased. “Then I’ll accept you as an inner disciple.”

She didn’t respond, her gaze fixed on the sword.

Yu Ziyan, having secured her desired disciple, turned her attention to another matter.

She looked at Mu Zhi’an, smiling. “You’ve depleted quite a bit of spiritual energy, Young Friend Mu. Recovering on your own would take some time. If you don’t mind, I can use a secret technique to restore about thirty percent of your energy.”

He wouldn’t refuse her offer. He bowed respectfully. “Thank you, Senior.”

She smiled, then took his wrist.

She channeled her spiritual energy into him, replenishing his depleted reserves, while discreetly observing his Vessel and constitution, nodding inwardly.

As expected of a young master from a prominent family… His foundation was solid, despite some damage from his past… With diligent cultivation, he would become an exceptional cultivator.

She was about to withdraw her hand when she felt something unusual, and she froze, staring at him, her eyes widening with surprise.

…Two Vessels…?

Chapter 130: Oh No, Someone’s After My Body! p2

As for the two ██s covering his role, and the pink hearts surrounding them, he wasn’t surprised.

It had changed after he had become intimate with Bai Ruoxi.

He closed the interface, feeling the depletion of spiritual energy within his Vessel, then he smiled faintly, looking around at the disciples, about to descend the platform.

Ye Yu stepped forward, landing on the platform, his gaze fixed on Mu Zhi’an. “Will you face me, Young Master Mu?”

Bai Ruoxi frowned, looking up at him, her voice cold. “If you want to spar, Young Master Ye, I’m available.”

Ye Yu ignored her, staring at Mu Zhi’an. “Are you afraid to fight me?”

Who are you…? Mu Zhi’an clutched his chest, coughing dramatically, his face pale, his voice weak. “Young Master Ye, we’ll inevitably clash someday, but I don’t have enough spiritual energy for another spar.”

“Of course, if you insist, I’ll risk my life to entertain you.” He drew his sword, his body swaying slightly.

Ye Yu frowned, studying him.

He had sensed that Mu Zhi’an still had plenty of spiritual energy. How could he suddenly be so weak…?

He’s faking it!

Let’s see how long you can keep this up… He took a deep breath, composing himself, his gaze meeting Mu Zhi’an’s. “Very well. Please instruct me, Young Master Mu.”

He was about to draw his sword.

“Enough.”

A clear voice echoed from the platform, and his sword clattered back into its sheath.

Yan Ruyu appeared beside them, her alluring figure accentuated by her loose black robe.

Ye Yu stiffened, bowing respectfully. “Master Yan.”

The disciples fell silent, their gazes fixed on her, her mature beauty captivating.

“Why did you stop us, Master Yan?” he asked, his voice seemingly respectful, but his tone laced with a hint of resentment.

He had trained diligently to defeat Mu Zhi’an, and now, after finally getting his chance, he had been interrupted!

It was torture…

She looked at him, her voice calm. “Mu Zhi’an’s performance was sufficient. There’s no need for another spar.”

He stared at her, confused, and she continued, “The library hasn’t recruited an inner disciple in many years. Coincidentally, Mu Zhi’an and I are compatible, and he possesses exceptional talent. From today onwards, he’ll be an inner disciple of the library.”

The disciples gasped, their expressions filled with shock and disbelief.

The first inner disciple chosen was… Mu Zhi’an?!

They had assumed that Bai Ruoxi, Wei Mengrou, or even Ye Lingxuan would be the first to be recruited… But Mu Zhi’an had been the one to stand out…?

The peak lords and elders also looked at them, surprised.

She hadn’t taken an inner disciple in years, and now she had actively chosen one?

Yi Hao froze, glancing at them, a flicker of regret in his eyes, but he didn’t say anything.

He had planned to keep Mu Zhi’an as an outer disciple if no one else chose him… He would have provided him with the resources of an inner disciple, just without the title…

But this was a great opportunity for Mu Zhi’an.

The library’s resources were equal to those of the nine peaks.

The other peak lords and elders, their expressions conflicted, didn’t object.

They were all focused on Bai Ruoxi and the others. They wanted to secure those talented disciples first. They couldn’t shamelessly interfere with Yan Ruyu’s choice.

Ye Yu stared at them, his expression filled with disbelief.

He wasn’t the first inner disciple chosen? It was Mu Zhi’an?!

Why?!

Because of that single strike?!

It was just the power of the Lone Star Sword! It had nothing to do with his own talent!

He opened his mouth to speak, but he looked at Yan Ruyu, her smile gentle yet intimidating… and he swallowed his words.

Even he wouldn’t dare to challenge her.

He knew better than to offend someone so powerful.

She turned to Mu Zhi’an, her figure tall and alluring, her smile captivating, her long hair flowing freely, her beauty both mature and mysterious…

Why is she interested in me…? Could it be… she’s after my body…? He chuckled inwardly, noticing the warmth in her eyes.

He had expected other peak lords to choose him, because of Ling Long.

But Yan Ruyu didn’t know about Ling Long.

So what had she seen in him…?

My handsome face…? He mocked himself inwardly.

“Mu Zhi’an, will you become a disciple of the library?” she asked, her voice soft.

It sounds like a marriage proposal… He bowed respectfully. “I would gladly serve you, Master Yan!”

He screamed inwardly: Master Yan, I don’t want to work anymore!

She nodded, smiling. “Then come to the library later.”

She tapped his forehead, a surge of spiritual energy entering his body.

He retrieved his sect token. His name was inscribed on the front, and on the back, the words “Inner Disciple of the Library” appeared.

She turned and left, not wanting to risk any further delays.

With his sect token marked, the other peak lords wouldn’t be able to snatch him… even if they discovered his secret.

Especially Yu Ziyan, who was also stuck at a bottleneck…

He watched her depart, then he descended the platform.

The other peak lords and elders also descended from the platform, their gazes fixed on the remaining candidates.

Bai Ruoxi, who had been about to approach Mu Zhi’an, was immediately surrounded by the peak lords, their voices eager as they competed for her attention. Ye Lingxuan was also sought after, and even Wei Mengrou, who had been trying to remain invisible, was approached.

The other disciples were also being recruited by the senior disciples of the nine peaks.

This is too competitive… Mu Zhi’an watched, chuckling inwardly.

Originally, the inner disciple selections had been a simple process, with the peaks sending their disciples to present their offers…

But then some shameless peak lord had decided to personally invite a candidate, to show his sincerity…

The other peak lords had followed suit, and the competition had become increasingly intense…

He sat down on a stone bench, watching the spectacle unfold.

“Miss Bai, Young Friend Mu and I have a connection. If you join Boundless Sea Peak, you can continue living in the Garden of Heavenly Harmony. Or if you have a preferred cave dwelling, I can have it gifted to you,” Yi Hao said, offering his trump card.

Bai Ruoxi’s eyes lit up, and she looked at him, nodding politely. “After careful consideration, Senior Yi, I believe Boundless Sea Peak is suitable for me.”

The peak lords of Pure Yang Peak and Dream Drunken Peak glared at Yi Hao as Bai Ruoxi’s sect token was marked with the words “Inner Disciple of Boundless Sea Peak,” their hearts burning with envy.

“Shameless old thief!”

“Such behavior is unbecoming of a peak lord!”

Yi Hao chuckled, unfazed. “This is fate… I planted a seed with Young Friend Mu, and now it has borne fruit. Don’t be envious. It’s not fitting for peak lords.”

With Bai Ruoxi’s decision made, they turned their attention to Ye Lingxuan and Wei Mengrou.

But they both remained silent, glancing at Mu Zhi’an.

It was a subtle gesture, but the peak lords and elders noticed.

They looked at him, their expressions thoughtful.

It seemed their offers, no matter how enticing, were less important than his opinion…

He was the one who would determine their choices.

Chapter 130: Oh No, Someone’s After My Body! p1

As Mu Zhi’an stepped onto the sparring platform, the disciples’ gazes followed him, their eyes filled with curiosity.

Huang Manting watched, her brow furrowed with surprise.

This isn’t like him.

She remembered him as someone who avoided conflict whenever possible. Why would he accept a challenge?

Or was he simply trying to impress the peak lords with his talent?

Ye Lingxuan and Ye Qian also looked up, their expressions filled with surprise.

“Why is Brother Mu sparring?” Ye Qian asked, her voice laced with concern.

While she wanted to believe in him, the Third Prince was a royal, with access to abundant resources and techniques. And their cultivation levels were similar.

She had never seen Mu Zhi’an fight before. She couldn’t help but worry.

Ye Lingxuan, however, remained calm, her gaze fixed on him, a smile playing on her lips. “Don’t worry. He wouldn’t have accepted the challenge if he wasn’t confident.”

“Have you ever seen him do anything reckless?”

Ye Qian nodded, reassured by her sister’s words.

Brother Mu? Then she realized what her sister had just called him, and she turned to look at her, her eyes widening with surprise.

She called him… Brother Mu…? But she used to dislike him, even warning her to be careful around him. What happened…? She stared at her sister, her expression confused.

Bai Ruoxi also watched, her white dress clinging to her curves, her ample bosom straining against the fabric, her beauty both alluring and imposing.

Beside her sat Yong Ning, the Eldest Princess, her golden dress a symbol of wealth and status, her gaze lingering on Bai Ruoxi, a smile playing on her lips. “Are you worried about Young Master Mu, Sister Ruoxi?”

Bai Ruoxi shook her head, smiling faintly. “He wouldn’t do anything reckless.”

She had never seen him act impulsively. He wouldn’t have accepted the challenge if he wasn’t certain of victory.

“Oh?”

Yong Ning narrowed her eyes, studying Mu Zhi’an, her interest piqued.

Her half-brother was at the fifth level of Foundation Establishment. Mu Zhi’an was clearly not at Core Formation, and judging by his aura, he was somewhere between the fifth and seventh level of Foundation Establishment.

Was Miss Bai truly that confident in his abilities?

The peak lords, noticing the commotion, also turned to look. Yan Ruyu’s gaze lingered on Mu Zhi’an, and she discreetly glanced at Yu Ziyan, the peak lord of Dao Peak.

Him sparring… it wasn’t a good thing.

At least not for her.

If he performed too well and attracted the attention of the other peak lords… it would complicate her plans.

“Mu Zhi’an is sparring… That’s unusual…” Yi Hao said, chuckling, his gaze fixed on him.

Ever since Mu Zhi’an had praised him in front of Ling Long, he had grown increasingly fond of the young man.

If not for the limited number of inner disciple positions, and the presence of several exceptional candidates, he would have chosen Mu Zhi’an without hesitation.

Xiang Yan, the peak lord of Pure Yang Peak, his physique robust, his red hair wild and untamed, also looked at Mu Zhi’an, his voice filled with admiration. “He’s already at the sixth level of Foundation Establishment… That’s an impressive improvement…”

Yu Ziyan, the peak lord of Dao Peak, her beauty ethereal and captivating, her white robes flowing gracefully, also watched, her gaze sharp and discerning.

After a moment, she smiled faintly. “He must have received some opportunity from Senior Ling Long.”

Normally, it was impossible to advance a level in just a few days.

Even for a genius, it was a remarkable feat.

Yi Hao nodded silently, a smile playing on his lips, but he didn’t say anything.

Mu Zhi’an had indeed received an opportunity from Ling Long.

And he was the one who had granted it to him.

He had eaten an Eight Treasures Crane, after all.

“Ning Long is making his move,” someone said, and they all turned to watch as the Third Prince unleashed a surge of spiritual energy.

Judging by its intensity, it was far beyond the fifth level of Foundation Establishment!

The disciples gasped, their expressions filled with surprise, while others nodded, unsurprised.

He was a royal, after all. He had access to vast resources and techniques.

Even a pig raised with the imperial family’s resources would have become extraordinary.

It wasn’t impossible for him to possess a secret technique that temporarily enhanced his cultivation.

He pointed his sword at Mu Zhi’an. “Swords are dangerous, Young Master Mu. Don’t blame me if you get hurt.”

Mu Zhi’an chuckled. “You’re right, Third Prince. Swords are dangerous. So you should be prepared.”

The Third Prince narrowed his eyes, studying him.

He knew their strength was similar, but Mu Zhi’an didn’t know about his secret technique.

It would only last for fifteen minutes, but it was enough to end the fight.

This single strike will decide everything!

He stepped forward, his aura surging like a tidal wave.

But Mu Zhi’an’s expression remained unchanged. He placed his thumb on the hilt of his sword, pushing it slightly out of its sheath, a flash of cold light reflecting in his eyes.

Spiritual energy flowed through his Vessel, and he drew his sword.

Clang!

A surge of energy gathered at the tip of his blade, the sound of metal against metal ringing through the air, the disciples only seeing a blur of movement.

And then his sword was back in its sheath.

The Third Prince froze, his body stiff.

A cracking sound echoed through the air, and his sword shattered, a shard of metal flying towards his face, leaving a thin trail of blood on his cheek.

Then he collapsed, his eyes wide with disbelief.

He had been defeated with a single strike!

It had happened so quickly, the visual impact so overwhelming, that the disciples stared at the platform, speechless, their minds reeling.

Gongsun Cheng stiffened, glancing at Bai Ruoxi.

That strike reminded him of the bronze sword she had used.

Yan Ruyu narrowed her eyes, discreetly observing Mu Zhi’an, whose spiritual energy had been significantly depleted.

The other peak lords and elders also looked at him, their expressions thoughtful.

He was at the sixth level of Foundation Establishment. It wasn’t particularly high, but if his talent was truly that terrifying… he would be a valuable asset with proper training.

“His technique is interesting… A single strike to decide the outcome. If he masters it, it could be a powerful surprise attack,” Yi Hao said, his voice filled with approval.

“It was indeed impressive, but he must have depleted sixty percent of his spiritual energy… He wouldn’t be able to use it again,” the peak lord of Metamorphic Jewel Peak said.

Yu Ziyan frowned, studying Mu Zhi’an with a discerning gaze. “Why do I sense that his spiritual energy is still abundant?”

Dao Peak specialized in the Dao, the way of natural law. It granted them an exceptional sensitivity to spiritual energy, and she had immediately noticed something amiss.

He should have depleted most of his energy. But why did it seem so full?

The others looked at her, their expressions filled with surprise.

Yan Ruyu discreetly glanced at her former senior sister, clicking her tongue inwardly.

She’s as sharp as ever… She smiled, changing the subject. “It was an impressive display, but surely you’re all more interested in Bai Ruoxi and the others?”

The peak lords of Dao Peak, Boundless Sea Peak, and the others, their priority was to secure the two Core Formation cultivators and Ye Lingxuan.

And after them, the girl from the Southern Wilderness.

Her words brought them back to reality, their expressions turning serious.

She smiled inwardly, her gaze returning to Mu Zhi’an.

I can’t delay any longer…

If someone else snatched him, especially that Dao Peak woman… it would be a problem.

…

Mu Zhi’an stood on the platform, his expression calm as he watched the disciples carry the unconscious Third Prince away.

He was only pretending to be calm.

That strike… it had even surprised him.

It had clearly incorporated Bai Ruoxi’s Dao.

Or rather, the power of her bronze sword.

He discreetly opened his personal interface.

[Name: Mu Zhi’an]
[Role: ██]
[Achievements: Innate Celestial Vessel, Friend of Antagonists, Heaven’s Envy, Natural Spirit Body (Pseudo), Sword Immortal Protection (Pseudo)]

“Hm?”

He noticed something.

He had only had three achievements before… Now he had five!

Natural Spirit Body was Ye Lingxuan’s physique.

And Sword Immortal Protection…?

…Bai Ruoxi’s…?

He stared at the interface, a thought flashing in his mind: Could I be gaining achievements from them…?

If so, it explained how he had been able to use a portion of her bronze sword’s power.