Category: Mistaken Era

Chapter 41

The vixen looked back at her son in disbelief before collapsing to the ground.

Seeing this, Xiao Xiao inwardly cursed and showed no more mercy, her sword slashing down to sever the whistle-blower’s hand, leaving him howling in pain and unable to blow again.

However, over a dozen fox youths on the mountain who had been inflicted with the voodoo worm were now awakened by the whistle’s howl, and the fox tribe began turning on each other in a frenzy.

Though formidable themselves, the elder foxes could not bear to strike against their own tribesmen.

Xiao Xiao plastered down a few with Spirit-Binding Talismans, but she had used up her entire stock and could not draw more in time.

Seeing the frenzied fox youths grow increasingly manic, Xiao Xiao realized that the forcibly triggered voodoo poison would likely cause the worms to penetrate their hearts, killing them…

At this critical juncture, a melodious song suddenly wafted through the woods.

The bewitching, yet extraordinarily penetrating song caused both fox and human tribes to involuntarily halt and freeze in place, regardless of whether they were inflicted.

However, the voodoo-inflicted fox youths seemed unaffected, continuing to wildly claw and slash.

But then, the piercing song seemed to shift frequency, growing increasingly shrill and high-pitched.

This keen sound appeared to penetrate into one’s heart, forcing everyone to cover their ears.

At that moment, the inflicted fox youths clutched their chests before coughing out mouthfuls of black, clotted blood. They then looked around in a daze, as if awoken from a long nightmare.

Meanwhile, those dozen-odd thugs had already been struck down by the song, bleeding from all orifices and convulsing on the ground, their meridians seemingly ruptured before dying gruesome deaths!

This shocking turn of events clearly caught the fox tribe off guard as well. After exchanging bewildered looks, they warily scanned their surroundings for the source of this deadly voice.

At that moment, the bushes along the mountain path seemed to rustle.

Turning their heads, they saw a bald, mangy fox emerge from the foliage.

Though furless, it still proudly raised its tail, the lingering dignity of the former Fox King evident.

Yu Ling’er cried out joyfully, “Mother!”

However, Xiao Xiao pulled her back, carefully studying the fox’s eyes.

Only after confirming no abnormalities indicating voodoo infliction, and that her silver ring did not react, did she allow the vixen to approach them.

This mangy fox was indeed the Fox King who had failed her tribulation, her primal essence severely depleted to the point of being unable to regain human form.

Having lost her cultivation prowess, she could no longer lead the fox tribe. According to their traditions, a new Fox King had to be selected.

Although unable to manifest her human form, the vixen had just prevented a calamity and rescued her people, regaining even more authority in the tribe’s hearts than before.

Moreover, her far-reaching connections were unmatched – not only did she have a femme fatale songstress as an old friend, but also the support of the Talisman Sect’s leader. For the time being, everyone had faith in her.

Unfortunately, knowing her own days were numbered, the old Fox King ultimately passed the position to the newly returned Yu Ling’er.

Yu Ling’er was greatly surprised by her mother’s decision. Aware of her own low cultivation and lack of cunning, how could she possibly lead the tribe?

But the sage old fox saw clearly. Although her daughter was timid and lacking in attainments, she was at least a half-disciple of Cui Xiao Xiao now.

Moreover, as a reclusive mountain-dweller, the vixen had only just learned that her old friend Si Ling had actually given birth to a son with the Wei Family – the very same Wei Jie she had previously encountered.

Thus, the old vixen went so far as to have Yu Ling’er accept Si Ling as a sworn elder sister!

With this, all worldly etiquette and proprieties were properly observed.

Now that Yu Ling’er was Wei Jie’s sworn younger sister from another father, how could an elder brother not look after his sister?

The old fox led her daughter around pledging oaths, ensuring her installment as the new Fox King with utmost diligence.

As for her daughter’s low cultivation, that was easily resolved. Since the spirit stone had attracted such covetous attention, it could no longer remain on the mountain.

The old vixen took the spirit stone and led the elders along with her daughter into a cave deep in the rear mountain.

When they emerged, Xiao Xiao was astonished to see Yu Ling’er’s appearance had matured dramatically, her features now exuding bewitching charm.

It turned out the old Fox King had used a secret technique to seal the spirit stone within Yu Ling’er’s navel, temporarily contained within the fox’s true form.

Once the threat was eliminated, they would retrieve the spirit stone and immerse it in a bountiful spring to revitalize the fox tribe.

Mount Tuyun had now drawn the attention of evil forces, so they could no longer remain.

Infused with the spirit stone’s spiritual energy, not only had Yu Ling’er’s powers greatly increased, but her outward appearance had also matured considerably.

Unfortunately, no matter how mature her looks, it could not change her innate nature. When they were alone, Yu Ling’er embraced Xiao Xiao tightly before bursting into tears.

Xiao Xiao was utterly bewildered, only able to pat her back helplessly. “What’s wrong? Didn’t the old Fox King agree to release you from your vow? You no longer have to follow me – you’ve regained your freedom, so you should be happy!”

After soaking Xiao Xiao’s shoulder with tears, Yu Ling’er finally choked out, “Happy…what happiness? I now shoulder the mission of protecting the spirit stone. My…my mother said, as long as the stone remains within me, I cannot become intimately close with any man, nor can I leave the tribe. I must always be supervised and protected by them… My beloved Young Master…when will I ever be able to be with him?”

It was only then that Xiao Xiao understood the little fox’s anguish.

With this spirit stone harbored within her, even if she found her heart’s desire, she could not approach him intimately lest she defile the sacred stone.

Yu Ling’er had effectively become a living stone vessel in fox form – better off remaining Xiao Xiao’s maidservant!

The ancient fox had devised a novel method to prevent her daughter from errantly pledging herself to a man…

However, Xiao Xiao did feel a sense of relief – at last, she could be rid of this burden and depart alone.

But to her surprise, the moment she mentioned leaving, a sea of prostrate foxes filled the ground before her.

The old Fox King said that since Mount Tuyun was no longer safe, they had effectively become homeless upon leaving.

Now, they could only follow the twice-savior of the fox tribe, the benevolent Sect Master Cui Xiao Xiao, seeking her boundless blessings and protection.

For such immense grace, the entire fox tribe, young and old, would forever engrave her name in their hearts, revering Cui Xiao Xiao as the second mother of rebirth after the Goddess Nuwa herself.

This time, their benefactor could not possibly refuse. The fox tribe, high and low, threw themselves at her feet, vowing absolute allegiance to Sect Master Cui!

Xiao Xiao knew that according to the original trajectory, it should have been Wei Jie who led the fox tribe and the spirit stone away after the heavenly punishment.

And during the upheaval in Luoyi City, it was with the fox tribe’s formidable assistance that Wei Jie managed to break free from the Four Great Sects before journeying to Ghost Ridge Cliff to establish the demonic sect, becoming the Demon Lord.

With Yu Ling’er’s devoted following and the spirit stone’s empowerment, Wei Jie’s demonic nature rapidly blossomed, giving rise to the infamous paramount Demon Lord who held sway over all…

Never could Xiao Xiao have imagined that this trajectory would wind its circuitous way back around.

These homeless fox tribesmen clung to the master of “Defying the Heavens” like stubborn leeches, refusing to be shaken off!

Did this not completely derail her plan to live in seclusion for three years?

Xiao Xiao let out a long sigh. She was well aware that the besiegement of Mount Tuyun was an event that had never occurred in the original timeline two hundred years ago.

At that time, Yu Ling’er and the others should have long since departed with Wei Jie.

However, in the later Battle of Luoyi City, it seemed the fox tribe had also suffered heavy casualties – perhaps these were the very same fox youths who had perished from the voodoo poison infliction.

Xiao Xiao now felt a sense of reverence towards “Destiny.” She realized that all things seemed to circle back around to their original, destined state in the end.

Yet what her own “destiny” entailed remained unknown.

Since all changes originated from her actions, she could not simply abandon her responsibilities. She had to properly settle the fox tribe before considering further steps.

With this thought, she finally nodded in resignation. “Alright… but I had planned to live in seclusion for a few years. If you’re willing, you can join me in finding a quiet place to retreat… Madam, you should come with me as well.”

Xiao Xiao’s final words were directed at the femme fatale Si Ling.

Prince Can’s claws had reached too far, scheming maliciously against Mount Tuyun. Si Ling’s song had now revealed her presence here, and it was unknown if Prince Can still had agents lurking below the mountain.

That Prince Can commanded many capable and extraordinary figures, surely including some who could subdue a femme fatale.

She could not simply abandon Si Ling alone. At the very least, she needed to find Wei Jie first and ensure his mother’s safety.

Upon hearing Xiao Xiao’s suggestion, Si Ling hesitated briefly before replying, “Let’s descend the mountain first and discuss further.”

Xiao Xiao had originally climbed the mountain to shake off a burden, but on her way down, she was now weighed down by an entire entourage trailing behind her.

By this time, those ill-intentioned beast hunters had already dispersed, but there was still a group stubbornly waiting at the foot of the mountain.

When Qin Lingxiao caught sight of Xiao Xiao descending, he grit his silver teeth in fury, growling, “Cui Xiao Xiao, you’ve finally deigned to come down! Seize her!”

This time, he would show no more courtesy – he would bind her with ropes all the way to Soaring Cloud Pavilion!

Unfortunately, as the graceful Soaring Cloud disciples charged forward, Xiao Xiao didn’t even move a finger before three to five fox tribesmen leapt to intercept them.

It was only then that Qin Lingxiao noticed a horde of foxes emerging from the mountain path, seemingly revering Xiao Xiao as their leader and staunchly protecting her.

Counting the two hundred years before and after, the Talisman Sect Master had finally found what it felt like to be a true sect patriarch.

With a flick of her sleeves and a toss of her long hair, she accepted a water flask from Yu Ling’er, taking a sip before calmly instructing, “Don’t go overboard – a lesson will suffice. Just don’t ruin those pretty Soaring Cloud disciples’ delicate skins.”

By the time she finished speaking, the flowing robes of the Soaring Cloud disciples had already been shredded by fox claws, leaving them flustered and disheveled like beggars.

Qin Lingxiao’s expression darkened as he turned to Yu Ling’er, asking sternly, “If you remember the debt you owe me for saving your life, then do not involve your tribesmen in this. This is a personal grievance between Cui Xiao Xiao and myself, unrelated to the fox tribe!”

Still cradling her mother, Yu Ling’er did not dare directly face Qin Lingxiao. With a crestfallen look, she parroted words Xiao Xiao had once told her, “Young Master Qin, Ling’er can never forget your lifesaving grace. I will certainly find a way to repay your kindness in the future. But for now, our entire fox tribe reveres Sect Master Cui as our leader to command as she wishes. You…would do better not to make things difficult for Xiao Xiao. The fare at Soaring Cloud Pavilion is not to her tastes…”

The newly appointed Fox King trailed off awkwardly.

Qin Lingxiao could not be bothered listening to her prattle after realizing Yu Ling’er was unreliable. He glared hatefully at Xiao Xiao. “Earlier, I heard the deadly song of a femme fatale emanating from the mountain – undoubtedly, the sin of murder has been committed. Yet you, as a member of the human tribe, consort with such demonic ilk! The righteous and evil paths cannot coexist. Do not blame our orthodox sects if we cannot tolerate your presence in the future!”

Hearing this, Xiao Xiao realized he intended to brand her as a demonic evildoer!

She immediately scoffed coldly, “You condemn without even asking about the circumstances. It’s fortunate you cultivate instead of serving as an official – if so, the resentful ghosts wronged by your executioner’s blade would be innumerable. At that point, forget about immortality – you wouldn’t even qualify for the underworld!”

Beside her, Yu Ling’er hastily recounted how Prince Can had allowed the beast hunters to scour for rare treasures everywhere, using puppet worms to sow discord among the fox tribe in an attempt to steal their sacred heirloom.

Qin Lingxiao frowned upon hearing this.

Regarding this Prince Can, in the previous two hundred years, Qin Lingxiao had only encountered him three times.

The first was when Soaring Cloud Pavilion received news of a femme fatale scheming chaos in Luoyi City, so he accompanied his father Qin He and the other three great sects to encircle and slay her.

However, Qin Lingxiao and his father arrived a step too late – by the time they reached Luoyi City, Prince Can’s birthday celebration had already been disrupted.

It was at this desecrated banquet scene that Qin Lingxiao first laid eyes on the legendary benevolent prince.

Reportedly, at the start of the banquet, Prince Can had extended warm hospitalities to the Four Great Sects, greatly shocked when they identified his palace songstress as an underworld femme fatale.

Yet out of sentiment or perhaps bewitched by her beauty, he had secretly allowed the femme fatale and her son Wei Jie to escape behind the four sects’ backs.

Thus, the four sects’ efforts were in vain. Afterward, it was the Sect Master of the Heavenly Heart Sect who pursued them to the forest by Autumn Water Pond, only to tragically meet his death at Wei Jie’s hands, bleeding from all orifices.

Upon learning the full story, Qin Lingxiao’s father Qin He berated Prince Can, condemning his foolish negligence in letting the demonic mother and son slip away, resulting in the Heavenly Heart Sect Master’s death.

Ashamed, Prince Can broke down weeping before the entire Soaring Cloud Sect, anguished as if Lao Ziren’s demise was his personal fault.

Chapter 40 p2

Thinking this, Xiao Xiao said to Yu Ling’er, “I’m tired, I can’t walk anymore.”

Yu Ling’er was used to Xiao Xiao’s spoiled acts of feigning illness, so she could only helplessly call Asheng over to crouch down and carry Xiao Xiao up the mountain.

As Asheng approached Xiao Xiao, the silver ring on her wrist began violently shaking, growing more intense the closer he came.

Xiao Xiao recalled Wei Jie’s words – those deeply inflicted by the puppet worm, with it having reached their heart, would develop a double pupil in their eyes.

As Asheng drew near, Xiao Xiao indeed saw two pupils in his eyes.

As she stared at the fox youth, his hand suddenly transformed into sharp fox claws, thrusting straight towards Xiao Xiao’s heart!

Though his strike was swift, Xiao Xiao was already on guard. She drew out her precious sword, severing Asheng’s claws while simultaneously throwing out a Spirit-Binding Talisman to immobilize the attacking fox youth.

At that moment, the other youth Amu viciously seized Yu Ling’er’s throat, flatly stating to Xiao Xiao, “Don’t move, or I’ll snap her neck!”

Yu Ling’er, never expecting her own tribesmen to suddenly turn traitor, stared at Xiao Xiao in shock, feeling as if struck by thunderbolts.

Knowing she could not rely on Yu Ling’er, Xiao Xiao lightly waved her fingers.

No matter how fast Amu moved, he could not outpace the “Defying the Heavens” sword.

The demon-slaying blade unsheathed, tracing an arc before stabilizing horizontally beneath Amu, knocking him backwards with a ringing strike and causing him to tumble unconscious.

Xiao Xiao swiftly approached and slapped a Spirit-Binding Talisman on Amu’s forehead before telling the still dazed Yu Ling’er, “They seem to be inflicted by the puppet worm… There’s something strange happening on this mountain!”

She could not directly touch the silver ring, so she had Yu Ling’er remove it and attempted to extract the puppet worm using the same method Wei Jie had used on his mother Si Ling.

Unfortunately, the worms inside these two had grown too large, likely having already reached their hearts. Wei Jie’s method could not draw them out, and the two youths began bleeding profusely from their noses – not a good sign.

Not daring to proceed further for fear of killing them, Xiao Xiao stopped.

At that moment, Yu Ling’er’s exposed fox ears twitched as she alertly said, “Someone’s coming!”

The two of them dragged the incapacitated youths into a nearby bush.

Soon after, two more fox youths unable to conceal their ears appeared, blankly leading a group of burly men up the mountain.

One of the thugs seemed impatient, viciously kicking the fox youth guiding them. “Damn it! Useless! If we’d succeeded, why bother dragging this old man up the mountain? This place was just struck by heavenly thunder – are you luring us up to get struck too?”

One of his lackeys chimed in, “How could that be? These little fox brats have all been inflicted with the puppet worm and are completely obedient. It’s just that those old, cunning foxes have hidden the spirit stones. But it’s good that big brother obtained the Enlightenment Beast’s urine – with it, those old foxes won’t be able to get close. After finishing this job, we can report back to Prince Can. Otherwise, we’ll have to return the down payment from our contractor, Hunter King, and end up with nothing.”

Xiao Xiao pieced together the gist despite the vague words.

These men climbing the mountain were subordinates of the late Hunter King.

Although the Hunter King had perished in Ghost Alley, these underlings did not wish to forfeit Prince Can’s deposit, so they were using some method to inflict the fox youths with puppet worms to obediently lead them up the mountain and steal some spirit stones.

Yu Ling’er also understood and was enraged to see her tribesmen insulted and the thugs plotting to rob her homeland. Her face flushed red as fox fur emerged, baring sharp fangs in a ferocious snarl.

In this moment, her dormant fox king bloodline seemed to awaken, exuding a fierce bestial aura.

However, Xiao Xiao patted her back, signaling her to remain calm for now.

These men mentioned having the Enlightenment Beast’s urine, which was likely lethal to the fox tribe. Even if they struck now, their advantage could shift if that substance was deployed.

It was better to bide their time and seize an opportunity for a counterattack.

At that moment, a series of fox howls echoed from all directions. Yu Ling’er instinctively wanted to join in but Xiao Xiao swiftly slapped a Body-Binding Talisman on her to prevent giving away their position.

Soon after, the cunning elder foxes emerged to block the path, a beautiful vixen coldly declaring, “Ashui, Aili, how dare you privately lead outsiders into our territory? What are you trying to do?”

The two fox youths guiding the thugs remained motionless, while the burly men exchanged glances before suddenly leaping into action. They flung ceramic vials filled with the Enlightenment Beast’s urine directly at the foxes!

As the vials shattered and the pungent liquid splashed out, the scent of the primordial beast indeed had an immense effect on the fox tribe, paralyzing them like frogs mesmerized by a snake. They trembled helplessly in place, unable to move.

The beast hunters immediately broke into raucous laughter, rapidly nocking and firing their arrows towards the immobilized foxes!

Judging by the hunter king’s troupe’s sinister reputation, those arrows were undoubtedly poison-tipped for instant kills.

Xiao Xiao had been prepared, chanting a water-guiding talisman to draw the nearby stream outwards, forming a liquid barrier like a huge bell to shield the paralyzed foxes.

The poisoned arrows could not penetrate this qi-infused water shield, simply dropping harmlessly.

Realizing they had been foiled, one of the thugs bellowed, “Who’s there?”

Xiao Xiao removed the Body-Binding Talisman from Yu Ling’er, preparing for them to reveal themselves together. However, Yu Ling’er remained frozen, her body trembling like a sieve from the beast scent’s effects.

With no choice, Xiao Xiao plucked some wild grass, rolled it into a ball, and stuffed it into Yu Ling’er’s nostrils.

This seemed to work, allowing Yu Ling’er to move freely without being affected by the odor.

As the two girls emerged, the thugs were momentarily stunned. One of them sneered, “How can you move?”

It seemed Xiao Xiao’s delicate beauty had caused the thugs to mistake her for a fox spirit as well.

Xiao Xiao had no patience to bandy words, immediately commanding the “Defying the Heavens” sword to charge the men.

Meanwhile, Yu Ling’er followed Xiao Xiao’s instructions to swiftly stuff grass into the paralyzed foxes’ nostrils as well.

By the time the fox tribe regained mobility, the thugs had already been thoroughly thrashed by Xiao Xiao, leaving them powerless to resist!

Though skilled in capturing demonic beasts, they were no match against a properly cultivated practitioner like Xiao Xiao.

At that moment, the beautiful vixen and her fellow foxes revealed their fox claws, pouncing on the downed thugs in a frenzy!

Unlike Xiao Xiao’s restraint about taking lives, they would tear these trespassers to shreds for daring to invade their territory!

Seeing their dire situation, one of the thugs hurriedly blew a bamboo whistle hanging from his chest.

As the whistle produced a sound resembling a fox’s howl, one of the small fox youths behind the vixen suddenly went blank-eyed before plunging its sharp claws towards her back!

Chapter 40

Hearing Xiao Xiao’s words, Qin Lingxiao let out a cold laugh.

So this was the low-ranked sect founded by his former senior brother Tang Youshu! For the disciples to have such lack of aspiration, no wonder Tang Youshu could only die of old age in the end.

What kind of cultivation path indulged in gluttony? It could only produce ghosts!

With this thought, he ignored Cui Xiao Xiao and closed his eyes again, austerely inhaling and exhaling to refine his spiritual essence.

Seeing she could not get any response, Xiao Xiao returned to the carriage and motioned with her chin to Yu Ling’er, “Did you hear that? If you follow him to Soaring Cloud Pavilion, forget about eating chicken. You’ll only get to gulp down some water at each meal.”

Yu Ling’er was also very hungry, but she didn’t dare brazenly demand dishes like cold noodles with a spicy sauce like Xiao Xiao, lest Qin Lingxiao look down on her for lacking cultivation discipline.

Thinking this, Yu Ling’er plucked a couple of flowers and stuffed them into her mouth dejectedly.

But the petals were bitter and inedible, causing Yu Ling’er’s fox ears to emerge in anguish.

Xiao Xiao didn’t want to suffer. She turned to scan their surroundings and noticed a tree bearing bright red berries that looked edible, so she tried climbing to pick them.

Qin Lingxiao slowly opened his eyes and wordlessly watched Xiao Xiao agilely climb the tree like a nimble little monkey, her swishing ponytail exuding youthful leisure.

He inwardly scorned her again – this foolish girl had drunk his spiritual spring’s blood, supposedly reaching the Golden Core stage by now.

Unfortunately, she had chosen the wrong master, failing to properly cultivate. She was like an ignorant brute possessing physical power yet unaware of how to apply it to martial techniques.

So Cui Xiao Xiao did not even know basic lightbody techniques that ordinary disciples could employ, forced to use clumsy methods like climbing trees…

As he was thinking this, the girl suddenly slipped on a patch of damp moss, letting out a yelp as she fell from the tree.

Qin Lingxiao only coldly laughed. He stood up, intending to catch her only at the last moment before hitting the ground as a lesson.

But as he moved to catch Xiao Xiao, he noticed the precious “Defying the Heavens” sword on her back had automatically unsheathed itself. It traced an arc in mid-air before steadying horizontally beneath her.

Xiao Xiao lightly placed her toes on the sword’s body, stably suspended in the air. The slender beauty hung gracefully, her dress and long hair lightly fluttering in the wind, exuding the poised elegance of a sword immortal.

She waved her fingers to guide her qi, commanding the precious blade to slowly raise her up to pluck the ripe berries high in the tree.

Achieving such unity with the sword in a crisis, freely controlling it at will, was a realm someone of Cui Xiao Xiao’s superficial cultivation should not have mastered.

And yet…she had mastered it!

This once again filled the peerless Young Master Qin, who had never grasped this essence, with envy bordering on fury.

After plucking some berries and sharing them with Yu Ling’er, Xiao Xiao offered a few to Qin Lingxiao cordially, “Um, I’ve tasted them – they’re very sweet. Would you like some?”

The exiled immortal young master only glared coldly at her, sarcastically sneering, “With all this showing off, be careful not to break your legs!”

He turned and stormed off, knocking the berries from Xiao Xiao’s hand to the ground.

Xiao Xiao was stunned by Qin Lingxiao’s rude discourtesy, only able to glare at the arrogant youth’s back and mockingly mimic slapping his head!

Of course, under the watchful gaze of the many Soaring Cloud disciples, she could only pantomime venting her frustration before bending down to pick up the berries and wash them in the stream. After all, food was scarce and could not be wasted.

Yu Ling’er was still hungry, so she wandered around for a bit before returning with a few bird eggs, intending to roast and eat them with Xiao Xiao.

As the little fox peeled the eggs, she lamented worriedly, “It would be better if Wei Jie and Tang Youshu were here. They would never let us go hungry… I wonder what they’re doing now, and if they’ll come looking for us…”

Xiao Xiao didn’t respond, suddenly losing her appetite for the bird eggs. She walked over to sit by the stream, gazing absentmindedly into the flowing waters.

In truth, she too wanted to know what was happening in Luoyi City.

Would the person whose life trajectory had been diverted find a way to realign his destined path?

Moreover, she was even more concerned about whether the drastic changes in events would harm Wei Jie, and if he could safely extricate himself…

It seemed she had not presented herself as nonchalantly as she had in front of Yu Ling’er. Her soft-hearted flaw, repeatedly berated by her con man father, still persisted…

Her thoughts in turmoil with no one to confide in, she could only let out a light sigh towards the gurgling stream.

Although Xiao Xiao intended to delay their journey, Qin Lingxiao found their pace too slow.

Unwilling to linger longer on mundane matters, his sole desire was to bring Cui Xiao Xiao back to Soaring Cloud Pavilion as soon as possible.

To this end, he devised a solution – having several disciples remove the carriage wheels, then lifting the carriage body and using lightbody techniques to rapidly proceed forward.

As for Cui Xiao Xiao, if she felt nauseous again, she could freely vomit inside the carriage compartment. He could not have the entire group slowly trailing after her constant queasiness.

Once the carriage became an airborne palanquin, Xiao Xiao saw no need to pretend illness.

She understood Qin Lingxiao’s calculations, yet did not hope for Wei Jie and the others to come rescue her.

Wei Jie was an insightful man. Upon seeing the letter she had Tang Youshu pass to him, he would surely understand everything.

If he realized she had intentionally left him behind, his arrogance would prevent him from giving chase.

Their so-called master-disciple relationship had always been more of a joke, neither taking it too seriously.

His capabilities far exceeded anything she could teach him, so why burden himself looking after her?

For now, she still needed to settle Yu Ling’er’s situation, as it would be difficult to slip away with this deadweight in tow.

With this thought, she poked her head out to call Qin Lingxiao, “Hey, we need to go to Mount Tuyun first.”

This time, Qin Lingxiao did order them to halt. He knew Cui Xiao Xiao wanted to send Yu Ling’er back first.

Although he did not wish to delay any further, beings like Yu Ling’er of the demonic fox tribe could not remain at Soaring Cloud Pavilion.

According to Xiao Xiao, Yu Ling’er had taken a poisonous vow to never leave her side, or she would lose all her cultivation. She could only be released from this oath by returning to Mount Tuyun.

Qin Lingxiao knew that if he refused, he would inevitably face Cui Xiao Xiao’s disdainful taunts again about his hypocrisy as a cultivator of the righteous path.

Since their path would take them near Mount Tuyun anyway, a brief stop was acceptable. He finally gave a reluctant nod of approval.

However, Yu Ling’er was so upset she nearly cried, feeling Cui Xiao Xiao was too cruel to separate her from Qin Lingxiao.

Taking advantage of the disciples retreating while she washed by the stream, Xiao Xiao said seriously, “You saw how tightly Young Master Qin clings to me. With me around, he would never let you into his heart. If you help me escape, I won’t disrupt your prospects! After returning to Mount Tuyun and being released from your vow by your mother, you can follow whoever you wish.”

These words resonated with Yu Ling’er. If she could alter her oath before her mother, her heart’s true desire was to pursue Qin Lingxiao.

Seeing the little fox’s hesitation, Xiao Xiao knew she had an opening and whispered further persuasions…

As for Qin Lingxiao, upon reaching the lake at the foot of Mount Tuyun, he was greatly shaken.

Though aware of the heavenly punishment that had occurred here, he never expected the mountain to be so utterly disfigured in just a few short days, a testament to the punishment’s ferocity.

Qin Lingxiao could not help glancing at Cui Xiao Xiao, who had just stretched lazily before hopping off the carriage. She…had actually survived this catastrophic punishment unscathed…

Yu Ling’er led the way ahead, with Xiao Xiao following, but Qin Lingxiao stretched out his arm to bar her path.

“Yu Ling’er has returned home. As for how she resolves her vow with her mother, that is her business. We’re leaving for Soaring Cloud Pavilion immediately.”

Xiao Xiao hurriedly said, “But if Yu Ling’er doesn’t break her vow before separating from me, she will…”

Qin Lingxiao impatiently cut her off, “Whatever happens to her is no longer your concern! You’re not trying to make excuses to run away, are you?”

Xiao Xiao gave a slight smile, tilting her head. “With you all watching me so closely, where could I possibly run to? Oh, what’s for lunch? If we have to eat more flower petals, I’ll truly starve. There are many villages nearby – Ling’er has money, so can we eat our fill before going up the mountain? Otherwise, she may never get another chance.”

Qin Lingxiao let out a cold laugh, peering towards the smoke rising from a nearby village before looking back at Xiao Xiao’s raised face. Her large eyes were full of piteous pleading, her ruby lips pursed…

Qin Lingxiao fell silent for a moment before slowly saying, “You two rest here. I’ll go and return shortly.”

With that, he flew towards the village.

Xiao Xiao didn’t know what Qin Lingxiao intended to do, but this was precisely the opportunity she had been waiting for!

As soon as Qin Lingxiao disappeared from sight, she exchanged a covert glance with Yu Ling’er, and the two suddenly dashed up the mountain.

Over the past few days, the disciples had grown accustomed to the two girls complaining of hunger, usually foraging for wild fruits and bird eggs in the vicinity.

They paid no heed when the girls wandered to forage, never expecting them to suddenly bolt without warning today.

By the time the stunned disciples reacted and gave chase, Xiao Xiao’s figure flickered before vanishing from sight.

They raced forward a few steps, but upon leaping and landing, found themselves still in the same spot…

After fruitlessly dashing around in circles, the dazed disciples finally retreated down the mountain.

Just as the disoriented disciples emerged from the bewildering illusion, they saw the young master returning with a large food basket.

Ashamed, they knelt before him to beg forgiveness.

Upon learning the two girls had fled up the mountain, Qin Lingxiao immediately set down the food basket and flew in pursuit.

But once inside, he too found himself running in circles. Damn it! He…seemed to have entered Mount Tuyun’s bewildering “Ghost Crashing Wall” illusion.

When Qin Lingxiao had previously visited Mount Tuyun, Yu Ling’er had guided him smoothly without incident, so he had never experienced this disorienting trap.

By the time he finally escaped the illusion, Qin Lingxiao’s handsome face was flushed red with rage.

So they were “hungry”? That damned lying girl had clearly deceived him!

He angrily kicked the food basket on the ground, shattering it.

Aside from a few side dishes, it had contained a large bowl of cold noodles drenched in a spicy sauce that now splattered all over, staining Qin Lingxiao’s pristine white robe with specks.

Cui Xiao Xiao! Just you wait! See if I’ll go easy on you next time!

…

As for Yu Ling’er, although using the “Ghost Crashing Wall” had helped Cui Xiao Xiao shake off Qin Lingxiao and his group, she was apprehensive. “What if Young Master Qin blames me?”

Xiao Xiao felt her concern came too late, as if it were an afterthought.

However, seeing the little fox’s anxious expression, Xiao Xiao consoled her, “The fox tribe’s formations have always existed – it’s not like you deliberately set a trap for him. If he blames you, then he’s being unreasonable! You owe him a life debt, so you can repay him when you get the chance. Debts of gratitude are separate matters – he may not be a suitable spouse for you. Don’t let your heart be led astray, only to end up empty-handed!”

Yu Ling’er was unconvinced. “Why wouldn’t he be suitable? Isn’t he more reliable than your disciple Wei Jie?”

Xiao Xiao gave her a meaningful look, thinking: In the previous life, you were infatuated with that unreliable Wei Jie, even loving him to the point of death…

She couldn’t help but wonder – if the one who had accidentally saved the little fox back then had been a shriveled, wrinkly old man instead, would this fox girl have still harbored a secret crush, unwilling to marry anyone else?

If so, Xiao Xiao would truly have nothing to say except to beg for Yu Ling’er’s merciful acceptance of her knee!

Seeing Xiao Xiao’s strange gaze, Yu Ling’er sighed softly, “You fickle humans could never understand a fox’s devoted heart… Let’s go find my mother.”

Although Mount Tuyun had been devastated beyond recognition, as they traversed the fox tribe’s illusion formation, it appeared as lush green mountains and waters.

After walking a short distance, two tall fox youths suddenly emerged from the foliage to block their path.

Yu Ling’er recognized them as childhood playmates from the fox tribe.

Delighted to see her benefactors, she happily greeted them while nearly revealing her fox ears, “Asheng, Amu, how did you know I was back?”

Asheng and Amu seemed shy, exchanging glances before falling silent with blank expressions in the presence of the outsider Xiao Xiao.

Having been away from home for so long, Yu Ling’er was eager to see her mother.

When she turned to call Xiao Xiao, she noticed the latter staring fixatedly at the two fox youths.

Regardless of gender, the fox tribe were blessed with great beauty. These two young men were tall and muscular, appearing well-developed.

Yu Ling’er worried the Talisman Sect’s Master Xiao Xiao would change her sect’s name to the Passion Sect upon seeing such handsome males, unable to resist ogling them.

Thinking this, Yu Ling’er couldn’t help glaring at her before loudly saying, “Let’s go! It’s not like you’ve never seen good-looking men before!”

Xiao Xiao didn’t respond, trailing behind Yu Ling’er without moving forward.

She looked down at her own wrist, where she wore the silver ring Wei Jie had previously removed from his whip’s handle.

According to Wei Jie, the silver was mined from the yin mines at the entrance to the underworld, possessing a natural affinity for sensing ominous yin entities.

When she had approached those two fox youths earlier, the silver ring on her wrist…had trembled slightly.

Xiao Xiao knew this Wei Family enchanted demon-subduing ring would not react without reason.

Those two youths blocking their path must possess some abnormality.

Chapter 39 p2

The celebrated once-in-an-era genius Qin Lingxiao felt a profound and piercing insult in that moment!

He had spent ten full years striving to control this divine sword, yet without any achievement. Now, he was met with dismissive questioning from a girl he looked down upon – “What’s so difficult about it?”

Qin Lingxiao could no longer be bothered to listen to Xiao Xiao’s boasting, single-mindedly focused on snatching the sword back first.

Unfortunately, Xiao Xiao’s mouth was as sharp as an unsheathed blade. Since she had started speaking, there was no chance of her easily backing down. “You were once the esteemed founding patriarch of the Sword Sect, yet now you approach like a common bandit trying to rob me?”

Qin Lingxiao angrily retorted, “Do you even need to ask whether this sword belongs to me or not? You’ve seen me wield it before!”

Xiao Xiao blinked her large eyes. “But that was two hundred years later! If we’re speaking that way, the sword should belong to Wei Jie now! Moreover, I suffered a heavenly punishment injury to my arm because of this sword! So it is undisputedly mine now. If you insist it’s yours, call out to it and see if it responds.”

Qin Lingxiao’s hands were practically shaking with rage, but Xiao Xiao spoke the truth – the sword did not belong to him at present, yet it should not belong to this deceitful girl either!

His arrogance prevented him from outright robbing her after being mocked as a bandit. He could only coldly say, “Cui Xiao Xiao, don’t go too far! You can’t seriously intend to run rampant two hundred years in the past? Have you considered the consequences of such willful actions? Don’t you want to return to your own time?”

Xiao Xiao waved her fingers, causing Defying the Heavens to return to its sheath. “Do you know how to go back?”

Qin Lingxiao took a deep breath to suppress the anger provoked by Xiao Xiao, trying to reason with the girl through empathy. “As long as we have the divine statue of Zhu Jiuyin, we can return. However, that statue was something Wei Jie won from a wager at Zhanwei Mountain three years from now. If you want it, you’ll have to wait patiently. Since you’ve already separated from Wei Jie, that’s good – you won’t disrupt his trajectory anymore.”

Upon hearing this, Xiao Xiao’s brows furrowed slightly. Zhanwei Mountain? Wasn’t that the abode of the mountain deity Zhu Jiuyin mentioned in the Classic of Mountains and Seas?

It lay beyond the Northwest Sea, north of the Crimson Waters. Legend said the mountain did not exist on land, sea, or sky – a phantasmal mountain invisible without destiny’s blessing.

If Wei Jie was gifted with such a fortuitous encounter, then she could only wait three years until he obtained the statue before being able to leave.

She knew she should not interfere with Wei Jie’s trajectory, but where could she go for these three years?

Seeming to sense Xiao Xiao’s hesitation, Qin Lingxiao’s tone softened. “As long as you don’t cause any more disruptions, I will take care of your daily needs. You can temporarily reside at Soaring Cloud Pavilion until the time is ripe, then I…will accompany you back to two hundred years later.”

Unfortunately, Xiao Xiao did not trust him at all, only snorting dismissively. “You keep harping about not disrupting fate and changing others’ destined paths, yet your own actions are hardly upright. Let me ask you – what was the reason for the Four Great Sects entering the city so early?”

Qin Lingxiao was taken aback by her question, angrily replying, “Since I knew he would embark on a murderous rampage, what’s wrong with me taking steps to prevent tragedy?”

How could Xiao Xiao not understand Qin Lingxiao’s mindset? Apart from his blood feud with Wei Jie, he seemed to harbor a “why give birth to the dull if the bright exists” mentality.

As a cultivator of the righteous path, while Wei Jie was a notorious demon patriarch destined for infamy, Qin Lingxiao saw himself as the embodiment of justice!

Her altering of Wei Jie’s fate meant facing heavenly annihilation, yet his unilateral changes to Wei Jie’s destiny were an upholding of justice!

Xiao Xiao couldn’t be bothered to argue further with such an obstinate person. She only tilted her chin defiantly. “I have already separated from Wei Jie, so you need not worry. As for these three years, I will find a secluded place to retreat in seclusion. I hope you will keep your word and help me return to two hundred years later when the time comes.”

Hearing her reject his offer of shelter for three years, Qin Lingxiao felt this rare extension of goodwill towards a woman had been repeatedly rebuffed.

The experience of being brushed off like an insect by a female was something this centuries-old cultivator had only encountered from Xiao Xiao.

Once again, his kindness had been wasted on the unworthy.

The young man’s expression grew even colder as he flatly stated, “No, you have shown you cannot be bound by any sense of righteousness with me. To prevent you from going astray, you will have to come with me to Soaring Cloud Pavilion…”

As he finished speaking, he casually clapped his hands, and immediately a group of white-robed Soaring Cloud disciples surrounded them.

It seemed Qin Lingxiao was determined to take Cui Xiao Xiao with him today.

Xiao Xiao knew that if it were just Qin Lingxiao alone, she might have been able to handle him, fleeing if outmatched.

But now, surrounded by so many elite Soaring Cloud disciples, she stood no chance of victory or escape. Even with the divine sword in her hands, she could not prevail against such numbers.

A true hero does not dwell on losses. So Xiao Xiao sheathed her sword and cupped her fists in salute to Qin Lingxiao. “Since Young Master Qin extends such a warm invitation, please lead the way!”

The little fox Yu Ling’er, who had returned after shedding some tears, could not help feeling a twinge of joy upon hearing they would be guests at Qin Lingxiao’s Soaring Cloud Pavilion.

She had long hoped to be by her benefactor’s side soon. Little did she expect that the heavens seemed to have heard her secret prayers, making her dream come true.

Now she and Cui Xiao Xiao were seated in the carriage, escorted by Soaring Cloud disciples as the wheels rolled ever onwards.

This inefficient mode of travel was rather unbearable for the Soaring Cloud disciples.

After all, with their cultivation abilities, traversing a thousand miles in a day was child’s play if using lightbody techniques.

However, Xiao Xiao claimed that due to her unhealed injuries, being transported rapidly would cause severe vomiting, so they could only proceed slowly by carriage.

Upon hearing this, Qin Lingxiao did not bother arguing with the obstinate girl, immediately ordering his disciples to carry Xiao Xiao and proceed.

Xiao Xiao did not refuse, secretly scratching her throat to vomit a warm stream all over that disciple.

Utterly exasperated by Cui Xiao Xiao’s antics, Qin Lingxiao decided to take the lead himself, staying well ahead while the remaining Soaring Cloud disciples “escorted” Xiao Xiao’s carriage.

Yu Ling’er did not understand why Xiao Xiao had never displayed such queasiness when being carried around by Wei Jie before.

Xiao Xiao reclined on the carriage with her legs crossed, eyes closed, completely ignoring Yu Ling’er’s questioning.

Nonsense! If she truly went to Soaring Cloud Pavilion’s home territory, she would be a caged bird unable to fly. Of course, the slower their travel, the better her chances of escape.

With this thought, she suddenly stuck her head out of the carriage towards Qin Lingxiao’s distant white-robed figure and shouted, “Hey! I’m hungry! What’s for lunch? With this hot weather, a bowl of cold noodles drizzled with a tangy, spicy sauce would be perfect!”

Qin Lingxiao clearly did not inherit his master Wei Jie’s enthusiasm for food and drink, completely ignoring Xiao Xiao’s suggestion as he stiffly marched onwards like a ruler.

Seeing the Soaring Cloud disciples’ indifference to worldly pleasures, Xiao Xiao estimated their lunch would likely be quite frugal.

Sure enough, at midday, she watched those white-robed disciples simply plucking flowers to drink the dew, subsisting on petals and spring water.

Xiao Xiao could only exchange speechless looks with Yu Ling’er, who also found such meager sustenance unsatisfying for the gluttonous little fox.

At that moment, Qin Lingxiao was seated cross-legged on a large boulder, eyes closed in meditation to restore his qi.

Xiao Xiao approached him shamelessly. “…Are you afraid of accumulating karmic sins from killing, so you plan to let us starve to death instead?”

Qin Lingxiao opened his eyes halfway to coolly regard Xiao Xiao’s delicate face, reluctantly explaining, “As cultivators on the path of immortality, our goal is to transcend the mortal form. Abstaining from grains as soon as possible, subsisting only on flower dew, allows one’s dantian to become more pristine. Does your Talisman Sect not practice such austerities on the path to immortality?”

Xiao Xiao shook her head honestly. “Unless we’ve completely run out of food, three meals a day is a must – missing even one is unacceptable. You want me to stay at Soaring Cloud Pavilion for three years with such provisions?”

Chapter 39 p1

After some thought, Xiao Xiao felt that the whirlpool in Luoyi City was too deep, and she did not wish to get entangled in it.

As they idled at the inn, Xiao Xiao noticed that many soldiers had appeared in the city, conducting house-to-house searches. Inns were a key target for inspection.

Their inn was also searched thoroughly.

The soldiers seemed focused on investigating women, as someone had seen a luxurious carriage stop at the inn. Thus, Xiao Xiao and her group became a key target for questioning.

Through the conversation, Xiao Xiao learned that they were searching for the songstress Si Ling from the prince’s manor.

Initially, on the city outskirts, Si Ling had instructed her carriage to return to the Drunken Joy Pavilion in the city while she went to seek shelter with a friend.

As for who this friend was, she did not say, only telling Wei Jie not to worry about her.

It seemed she still did not wish to become too deeply involved with her son, lest it affect Wei Jie.

Now it appeared that Prince Can had realized the femme fatale Si Ling had slipped from his control, hence the search within and outside the city.

Fortunately, Xiao Xiao had earned a reputation as a righteous demon-slayer serving the people of Luoyi City, so the officials did not give her too much trouble.

Xiao Xiao wondered what Prince Can’s intentions were in expending so much effort to search for Si Ling.

In her master’s secret text, Xiao Xiao did find some clues.

It seemed that after becoming the regent king assisting his son’s reign, this Prince Can maintained an ageless appearance, praised by the people as the “Immortal King.”

It was said to be evidence of his attainment of immortality.

However, in the secret text, her master mentioned this Immortal King with an inquisitive attitude.

After all, for someone so accustomed to luxury and intrigue, it would be difficult to cultivate true immortality without leaving the mundane world and focusing wholeheartedly.

Yet Prince Can was able to form his Golden Core and maintain a youthful appearance before the age of forty, which impressed even Xiao Xiao’s master Tang Youshu.

Reading this, Xiao Xiao made a bold conjecture: perhaps Prince Can had set a trap for Si Ling in order to obtain her heart’s blood tears!

Possessing the femme fatale’s heart’s blood tears could grant eternal youth, even to ordinary mortals without any cultivation base.

However, these heart’s blood tears had their requirements – they had to be shed from a femme fatale’s genuine sorrow and heartbreak. If one merely tortured a femme fatale into tears of physical pain, the precious heartfelt blood tears could not be obtained.

If Xiao Xiao’s guess was correct, and Prince Can had obtained Si Ling’s heart’s blood tears to maintain his everlasting youth in the previous life, then how had he moved Si Ling to tears of heartbreak?

No matter what method he used, just thinking about it sent chills down one’s spine.

Fortunately, Si Ling had already left Luoyi City, sparing Wei Jie the pain of losing his mother.

Xiao Xiao did not wish to investigate Prince Can any further. After all, he was a man from two hundred years ago, of imperial lineage with a destined fate – not someone she should meddle with.

The rumbling sounds of heavenly retribution echoed in her ears, reminding Xiao Xiao to carefully avoid such great pitfalls.

As for Prince Can’s schemes, the Wei Family would handle it, as was the trajectory of the previous life. She did not belong here, so the more she interfered, the more she would err.

Since staying was pointless, leaving Luoyi City immediately was the wisest choice!

After packing her belongings, Wei Jie returned. Seeing Xiao Xiao instructing Tang Youshu to buy and load food supplies onto the carriage, he inquired about the situation.

Xiao Xiao did not mention the invitation from the prince’s manor, only saying they were preparing to depart and asking Wei Jie to also pack his belongings.

Wei Jie’s gaze darkened, but he did not speak.

However, when they were ready to depart by carriage, Xiao Xiao noticed Wei Jie was nowhere to be found. After searching everywhere, she asked Tang Youshu, “Young Master Tang, have you seen your master?”

Tang Youshu scratched his head awkwardly and said in a low voice, “Grand-Master, I…inadvertently let slip to Master about Prince Can’s servants delivering the invitation. He has gone to attend the banquet alone… You…won’t blame me, will you?”

Xiao Xiao was stunned, but could only smile bitterly in resignation. Rarely had she made up her mind to separate from Wei Jie and take him away, yet she still could not divert his original fate.

In the previous trajectory, it was at Prince Can’s banquet that he reunited with his mother and clashed with the Four Great Sects.

She had thought that with Si Ling leaving the city, everything could change. But now it seemed human efforts could not alter destiny, as Wei Jie had secretly attended Prince Can’s birthday celebration behind her back.

Of course, she guessed his reason – he was likely acting on instructions from the Wei Family to investigate Prince Can’s true intentions.

Xiao Xiao pursed her lips, feeling she had done her utmost.

Although Wei Jie was currently a good person, his fate to turn demonic still lay ahead. Whether his future path would be righteous or evil depended on his own choices.

As his nominal master, having disrupted the flow of time, she was not meant to have any involvement with him in the first place. It seemed their chances had run out.

With this thought, she instructed, “Defying your master’s orders and acting alone is unacceptable! No need to wait for him, let’s depart!”

Tang Youshu was taken aback and pleaded in a low voice, “But it’s not right to abandon Master alone, is it? Grand-Master, please…please forgive Master, otherwise you go ahead and I’ll wait for him here to keep him company.”

Xiao Xiao looked at her young master with some reluctance. If circumstances allowed, she truly wished to accompany her master to the end.

Alas, their destined connection would not be renewed until two hundred years later, so she could only force a smile and pat Tang Youshu’s shoulder. “Naturally, you should wait for your master. But the city has been chaotic lately, and your master would certainly not wish any harm to befall you. You can wait for him at the long pavilion outside the city gates…”

If Wei Jie was fated to clash with the Four Great Sects, it would be safer for Tang Youshu to remain outside the city.

With this in mind, she solemnly instructed further, “Young Master Tang, when you eventually establish your own sect, do hire a cook on the mountain. You may be virtuous, but your culinary skills leave much to be desired… Additionally, your disciples are still young, so do not stint on their food and drink. If anything should happen to you, at least leave them some provisions. Malicious curses like the Soul-Devouring Incantation should also be used sparingly…”

Her rambling instructions left Tang Youshu utterly confused, unable to discern what exactly his grand-master was referring to.

Still, he was immensely grateful that the grand-master had kindly allowed him to remain and wait for his master.

After Xiao Xiao hastily wrote a letter for Tang Youshu to pass on to Wei Jie, she boarded the carriage with the little fox girl Yu Ling’er and departed.

Watching her master’s solitary figure at the pavilion grow smaller in the distance, Xiao Xiao slowly exhaled.

Now, the only burden she carried was the little fox girl. She decided to return to Mount Tuyun and see if the Fox King could persuade his daughter to alter her vow and stop following her.

If Yu Ling’er truly wished to repay her debt of gratitude, she could change her vow to follow Wei Jie instead.

That way, everything would return to its proper course. Xiao Xiao only needed to find a way to travel two hundred years into the future by herself, trying her best not to affect the present events and people any further.

After traveling for a day, they grew increasingly distant from Luoyi City.

Originally, Yu Ling’er had thought that Wei Jie and the others might catch up and apologize to Xiao Xiao.

After all, this ambiguous master-disciple pair was always bickering and making up – Yu Ling’er was used to their constant squabbles, which were merely petty bedroom affairs with nothing unforgivable.

But after a day passed with no sign of Wei Jie catching up, even Yu Ling’er began to worry about them.

However, Xiao Xiao calmly said, “As long as there is no thunder or rain from the heavens, they will be fine.”

Yu Ling’er did not understand this cryptic remark.

Xiao Xiao sighed slowly. It would not do to explain that if any misfortune befell Wei Jie, altering his destined fate, she would likely be struck by heavenly thunder!

Moreover, Yu Ling’er’s driving skills were poor, resulting in constant stops and starts along the way.

Indeed, halfway through, the carriage suddenly halted again.

Yu Ling’er excitedly called out, “Young Master Qin! Have you come to find me?”

The previously meditating Xiao Xiao poked her head out to see – sure enough, it was none other than the white-robed, jade-crowned young man Qin Lingxiao, whom she had not seen in a long time!

His expression was as frosty as if someone owed him a vast fortune.

The fox girl Yu Ling’er was overjoyed, leaping off the carriage and running over, delighted to the point of almost revealing her fox ears upon seeing her benefactor.

Qin Lingxiao did not expect to replace Wei Jie and become this fox girl’s life-saving benefactor in this lifetime. Seeing her still associating with Wei Jie and his group, his gaze could not help but show disappointment.

Yu Ling’er thought Qin Lingxiao might be mistaking her character, mingling with the unrestrained disciples of the Talisman Sect.

Without him asking, Yu Ling’er rushed to explain, lest he misunderstand. She recounted how after he left, that Cui Xiao Xiao had led the Talisman Sect’s disciples to shield the fox tribe from heavenly punishment, and how her mother had forced her to take a poisonous vow to serve Cui Xiao Xiao’s every need.

It was only then that Qin Lingxiao learned that Cui Xiao Xiao had actually taken Wei Jie’s place in suffering heavenly punishment, which was why she was the one injured in the arm while Wei Jie remained unscathed.

Faced with Yu Ling’er’s rambling greetings, he only replied indifferently, “Miss Yu, I have some private matters to discuss with Sect Master Cui. Please give us a moment…”

Yu Ling’er did not expect that despite her explanation, Qin Lingxiao still seemed to misunderstand her intentions, his attitude remaining cold.

But…what private matters did he need to discuss with Cui Xiao Xiao that required her to leave?

Could it be that this Cui Xiao Xiao was like Wei Jie, keeping one eye on the plate while ogling the wok, seducing others behind his back, even aiming to entice her beloved Young Master Qin?

The little fox was filled with anguish and turned to run away, wiping her tears.

With only Qin Lingxiao and Cui Xiao Xiao remaining, he glared coldly at the young girl before suddenly reaching out to snatch the “Defying the Heavens” sword from her hand.

This divine demon-slaying sword infused with heavenly punishment should be in the hands of one truly worthy of wielding it.

The lowly Talisman Sect’s Cui Xiao Xiao – what merit did she possess to be its bearer?

When he and Cui Xiao Xiao had first met two hundred years later, the gulf between their cultivation levels was like a vast chasm.

Qin Lingxiao had never taken Cui Xiao Xiao seriously.

Traveling back two hundred years, Qin Lingxiao’s cultivation had greatly diminished, while this Cui Xiao Xiao had continuously accumulated fortuitous encounters, steadily narrowing the gap between them – an intolerable situation.

Fortunately, after drinking from the spiritual springs of Mount Tuyun, Qin Lingxiao returned to Soaring Cloud Pavilion and devoted himself to diligent cultivation day and night, eventually recovering his abilities.

Since this was a path he had already trodden before, coupled with his newfound blessings, his progress was swift. He had already formed his Golden Core, even impressing his own father, who praised him as a “heaven-blessed genius”!

Now, taking advantage of Wei Jie’s absence and Cui Xiao Xiao being alone, Qin Lingxiao intended to seize back the sword that rightfully belonged to him.

This was no ordinary blade – only the strong were worthy of its allegiance. Its successive owners throughout history had all been peerless experts.

An insignificant girl like Cui Xiao Xiao who had stumbled into some fortuitous opportunities – what merit did she possess to wield this divine sword?

In Qin Lingxiao’s view, reclaiming what was rightfully his was completely justified.

However, Cui Xiao Xiao refused to return the sword.

As his qi-infused hand invaded to snatch it, Xiao Xiao naturally recited an incantation, extending two fingers to lightly wave, causing the precious sword at her waist to unsheathe itself in a whirling motion, evading Qin Lingxiao’s attempt.

During these past few days of meditation, as long as her spiritual sense was clear, she could resonate with the sword, causing it to hum with ringing chimes, allowing her to control it with a mere flick of her fingers – a skill she was becoming increasingly adept at.

If it were an ordinary sword, Qin Lingxiao might have silently praised Cui Xiao Xiao’s improving skills.

But the sword she now controlled was the divine “Defying the Heavens” infused with heavenly punishment!

Swords possessed spiritual essences, especially proud and unyielding ones that could not be tamed by mortals.

Throughout the ages, even top-tier sword practitioners who did not cultivate could automatically enter the Dao realm once their swordsmanship reached a certain pinnacle, transcending the mundane.

This demonstrated just how difficult it was to truly unite with a sword’s essence.

To control a divine sword like Defying the Heavens required not only profound cultivation, but also an exceptionally powerful spiritual force that could resonate with the blade.

Cultivation could be tempered over time, but spiritual force was innate and could not be forced.

After slaying Wei Jie, Qin Lingxiao had obtained this divine sword as an invaluable treasure, aspiring to reach Wei Jie’s level of freely commanding the spiritual blade.

However, despite secluding himself for ten full years to cultivate in resonance with the sword, it remained silent, as if its soul had departed along with its former master Wei Jie.

Qin Lingxiao refused to give up, eventually finding an alternative path by condensing his inner qi into sword forms.

Although he could subsequently wield multiple qi swords, none compared to this demon-subduing divine blade.

This was why he was reluctant to readily use this sword – each time he saw it, it silently reminded him of his inferiority to Wei Jie.

Initially, if not for the possessing demon empowered by the demon bead making it too difficult to handle, he might not have even used Defying the Heavens to slay it.

For only he knew that he had never truly become this sword’s master.

Yet the frail, delicate-looking girl before him possessed such tremendous spiritual force! In such a short time, she had already tamed Defying the Heavens, effortlessly resonating with its essence!

For the ever-proud and self-admiring Qin Lingxiao, this was an unbearable humiliation!

He cried out in disbelief, “What trick did you use? How is it possible for you to control this sword?”

Xiao Xiao did not fully comprehend Qin Lingxiao’s astonishment, only blinking her eyes and lightly replying, “What’s so difficult about it?”

Chapter 38 part 2

Seeing Xiao Xiao’s confusion, Wei Jie calmly explained, “If one’s ambition is inflated enough, even the most alluring femme fatale could not obstruct his path forward.”

Xiao Xiao understood – if Prince Can did not prefer masculine beauty, then he must be a man consumed by immense ambition and aspiration.

Recalling his refined and amiable demeanor, it suddenly sent a chill down her spine.

Discerning demons was simple with a demon-subduing divine sword. But discerning the human heart was infinitely more difficult.

Yet sometimes, humans were forever more complex and terrifying existences than demons…

By the time they returned to the inn, the heavily vinegared and spicy braised dishes Wei Jie had bought for Xiao Xiao were already half-eaten by the little fox.

Yu Ling’er had now discovered that the human realm offered far too many delicacies – a life of only chicken giblets and breast meat was too dull.

When love-sickness could not be cured, indulging in the delicious human cuisine was truly a balm!

Fortunately, the ever-filial Tang Youshu had managed to preserve two bowls, understanding that the master and grand-master had not eaten, allowing Xiao Xiao to have her late breakfast.

As Xiao Xiao ate the braised dishes, she suddenly recalled that at last night’s banquet, Prince Can had mentioned he would soon be holding his thirtieth birthday celebration, planning to host a lake-side wine banquet at Autumn Water Pond on the city outskirts, while also letting his guests sample the local specialty small-scaled fish. Apparently, Prince Can was fond of fishing and had been personally leading people to catch fish in preparation to serve the honored guests.

At the time, the elder from Ebony Peak had responded enthusiastically, saying he also enjoyed fishing, and they had chatted merrily.

All the major sects present at the prince’s manor had received invitations.

As she munched on a braised chicken foot, Xiao Xiao asked Wei Jie about this matter. He said, “If Prince Can sends an invitation, we will naturally have to attend the banquet and see what’s going on.”

As he spoke, he was swinging his whip, the leather coils precisely wrapping around some empty wine jars placed on the ground, as dexterous as an extended limb.

After whipping for a while, he casually removed a silver ring from the whip handle and slipped it onto Xiao Xiao’s wrist.

Xiao Xiao looked at the ring, its patterns clearly bearing the Wei Family’s demon-subduing insignia.

As it encircled her wrist, the silver ring shook violently for a while, as if adapting, before finally becoming still.

Wei Jie explained, “Since you have the demon bead within you, the silver ring will react this way. Wearing it, if any ominous presence approaches, it will provide a warning.”

Xiao Xiao shook her wrist, the circular ring fitting perfectly as a bracelet due to her slender bones. Xiao Xiao reminded herself to simply wear it and absolutely not touch it with her fingers, lest she turn it to ash.

Those puppet worms were hard to guard against. But wearing this silver ring would at least provide advanced warning if any worm seeds approached.

After speaking with Xiao Xiao for a while, Wei Jie left on some matter.

Xiao Xiao noticed a few tall, cloaked men standing at the inn entrance. Although they were heavily covered, Xiao Xiao’s exceptional eyesight allowed her to make out the silver demon-subduing insignias embedded in their armor through the cloaks.

It seemed these were members of the Wei Family. Wei Jie had a hushed conversation with them before leaving together, likely called away on some urgent business and unable to return soon.

Seeing Wei Jie depart, Xiao Xiao lost her appetite for the braised dishes, quietly pondering her next steps.

Her greatest worry of Wei Jie and his mother’s life-and-death separation seemed to have been resolved. Si Ling had also been freed from the puppet worm, removing any lingering concerns.

If so, there seemed little point in remaining in Luoyi City any longer. As for whether the Four Great Sects had been inflicted with puppet worms, Xiao Xiao felt it was beyond her ability to investigate.

If that Prince Can truly harbored ill intentions, the Four Great Sects attending his birthday banquet in the previous timeline would likely have fallen victim as well.

After the incident in Ghost Alley nineteen, Xiao Xiao had experienced how her unconscious actions could bring drastic changes to this lifetime. She could only remain prudent in speech and action, trying her best not to further interfere with these people and events.

At that moment, the prince’s servants arrived with the invitation.

Having already made up her mind, Cui Xiao Xiao smiled at the messenger, “Thank you for Prince Can’s kind invitation, but as reclusive cultivators, we have concluded our business in the city and do not wish to disturb His Highness further. We will be leaving the city.”

The messenger was clearly displeased upon hearing this, drawling, “Although you are all cultivators on the path of immortality, you have not yet achieved transcendence and must still endure this mundane world for a time. Prince Can is the most favored brother of the current emperor, of unmatched nobility. For you to refuse in such a manner is rather inappropriate.”

His words were clearly rebuking Xiao Xiao for being ungrateful, but she pretended not to understand and simply smiled as she saw the messenger off.

Overhearing this, Tang Youshu became worried. “Grand-Master, by refusing this way, will we not offend Prince Can and face retaliation?”

Xiao Xiao sighed slightly. If it were just a regular noble’s banquet invitation, someone like her who enjoyed attending such grand events would have no reason to decline.

However, the host happened to be Prince Can. Although he appeared refined and amiable, Cui Xiao Xiao did not wish to have any dealings with this Prince Can.

Ever since learning that Wei Jie’s mother Si Ling had been inflicted with the puppet worm, Xiao Xiao had been pondering this issue – did that Prince Can’s obsession with collecting ferocious beasts stem merely from an eccentric personal hobby?

It must be known that the Enlightenment Beast he sought to capture guarded the Heavenly Gate of Kunlun Mountain. If it were captured by the likes of Hunter King, the heavenly gate would lose its divine guardian beast. Any demonic forces entering would surely incur the wrath of the celestials, with unimaginable consequences.

In the previous timeline, all the strange beasts captured by those hunters at the cost of their lives, be it the Enlightenment Beast or the Corpse-Eating Beast, were eventually collected by Prince Can.

Yet Prince Can then turned around and presented the Enlightenment Beast to the reigning emperor under the pretext that it was an auspicious beast manifesting to protect the nation, drawing unanimous celebration and praise from the court officials. Any dissenting voices were drowned out amidst the accolades.

According to her master’s secret text, after she and her master left Luoyi City in the third year of the Da Qi reign, a great drought struck for three years, followed by three years of devastating floods.

Countless refugees suffered, openly cursing the Da Qi emperor’s incompetent governance. This eventually led to the dynasty’s collapse that Xiao Xiao was familiar with from her own era, over two hundred years later when Prince Can’s fourth generation descendant sat on the throne.

However, Prince Can himself did not ascend the throne after his imperial brother, instead supporting his young son’s succession while hiding behind the scenes. It was said he had achieved immortality and entered a higher spiritual realm at an early age.

Such obscure imperial histories were unknown to commoners, so Xiao Xiao was also unclear about the details of his later cultivation journey.

From this perspective, this Prince Can had indeed enjoyed a smooth and illustrious life in his previous incarnation!

Unfortunately, due to Xiao Xiao’s existence as a variable in this lifetime, the events in Luoyi City had already begun to change.

Now that both the hunters from Qian Dong and Cang Bei had failed and met tragic fates in Ghost Alley, there would be no rare beasts to present as birthday tributes.

It seemed the gifts Prince Can received for his birthday this time would be severely diminished.

Chapter 38 p1

“Jielang(A’jie)…do you know…I am your birth mother?”

As she spoke, Si Ling’s tears began to flow.

A femme fatale is heartless and cannot be moved by emotion. But if she grows a heart, every teardrop that falls is heart’s blood, an elixir that drives the world into madness and preserves eternal youth.

Seeing the bloody tear streaks run down his mother’s pale cheeks, Wei Jie restrained himself again and again before finally raising his hand to wipe them away. “Mother, don’t cry anymore. These are tears of heartache that will harm your spiritual essence…”

This single word “Mother” only made Si Ling’s tears flow even more uncontrollably.

Wei Jie let out a silent sigh and pressed his mother’s side windpool acupoint. “This is a technique you taught me when I was young. If you cannot control yourself, just press here to guard your inner spirit. I’ve always remembered…”

With this press, Si Ling did indeed stop crying, though her emotional agitation still could not be reined in.

She gazed at her son with lingering affection, reaching out to caress his handsome face before finally suppressing her emotions to murmur, “I was always afraid you would not be accepted by the Wei Family. But now I see you have taken refuge under the Talisman Sect, with a master to guide you and fellow disciples to support you. I can rest assured. If there is nothing pressing, you should leave this place soon, as it is not a blessed land for you…”

As she said this, her gaze fell on the whip wound around Wei Jie’s waist, its handle bearing the distinct Wei Family’s demon-subduing insignia.

This insignia was an honor only bestowed upon the Wei Family’s recognized adult scions.

It seemed the Wei Family treated Jielang well and did not look down on him for his mixed bloodline.

With this assurance, Si Ling was completely relieved. Just as Xiao Xiao had said, Jielang had a bright future ahead of him. As his mother, how could she hinder him and force him into the abyss of vengeance?

As for the blood debt owed by the Four Great Sects for killing her husband, she alone would bear that burden.

She had painstakingly established herself in Luoyi City for a long time. Now that Prince Can had become her subordinate, granting her every request, as long as she controlled him and the extraordinary figures he had gathered, overthrowing the Four Great Sects would not be difficult.

As for Jielang, it was better for him to stay as far away from these sordid matters as possible. That was why she wanted the Talisman Sect’s master and disciple to leave Luoyi City soon.

However, when Si Ling advised him to leave, Wei Jie remained unmoved. He scrutinized his mother’s eyes before saying, “This city is not a blessed land for you either. You need to leave Luoyi City immediately!”

Si Ling shook her head, as if looking at a naive child, and still urged, “You go ahead. I really won’t be in any danger…”

Before his mother could finish, Wei Jie suddenly removed two silver rings from the whip handle and slipped them onto Si Ling’s arms.

These silver rings were forged from mines near the underworld, inherently yin in nature. Combined with the Wei Family’s enchantments, they could reveal demonic forms and detect ominous auras.

The Wei Family always wore silver armor, not only because they were wealthy, but also because silver warded off evil.

As the silver rings encircled Si Ling’s wrists, she immediately felt a burning, unbearable pain on her skin. It was as if something within her body was being drawn out by the silver rings, wrapped in her vital energy and surging forth.

If it were anyone else, Si Ling might have retaliated then and there. But she knew her son must have a profound reason for this, so she endured.

The two silver rings began rapidly spinning around her wrists, causing the blood vessels between them to swell slightly, as if something was wriggling inside… Then, the rings suddenly constricted, tightly clamping down on that section of her meridians.

Wei Jie took out a silver dagger and deftly picked out a voodoo worm from his mother’s skin.

When Wei Jie dropped it to the ground, the black worm was still writhing.

Wei Jie casually drew the precious sword from Xiao Xiao’s waist and sliced the worm into a bloody pulp with a single strike.

Si Ling had never noticed that she had been inflicted with a voodoo worm, and was greatly shocked to see her still-bleeding wrist.

Wei Jie looked at the worm’s remains and slowly said, “This is no ordinary voodoo worm, but a puppet worm from the underworld. It is born from the muds of the River of Oblivion. It is said that those unwilling to reincarnate often drown themselves in that river. Thus, the riverbed is laden with resentful energies, giving birth to worms that feed on those grudges. When nurtured with ferocious beast’s blood, they can then be used to control ghosts and gods.”

Si Ling had never realized she was inflicted with a puppet worm, and was shaken speechless when Wei Jie exposed it. She seemed to be recalling when this could have happened.

However, Wei Jie provided the answer, “Mother, you only recently entered the prince’s manor, didn’t you? The night you performed at the Ocean View Pavilion for Prince Can, I was actually on the roof…”

Xiao Xiao was also stunned, recalling that this was the very night she had almost fallen from the building.

At that time, Wei Jie had given up his room for her, saying he would share Tang Youshu’s room. But Yu Ling’er had said Wei Jie never went to Tang Youshu’s room.

It turned out that on that day, he had recognized Si Ling and stealthily made his way onto the roof of the Ocean View Pavilion.

His lightbody technique was peerless, allowing him to lurk undetected and eavesdrop on the secrets within.

He had heard Prince Can ask the serving girl when the voodoo worm would take effect.

The girl replied, “The puppet worm is transparent and odorless when seeded, so it is hard to detect. But after seven days, it will travel through the meridians and reach the heart, at which point the voodoo will take hold.”

Prince Can did not say anything further. But that worm-cultivating maidservant, perhaps eager to flaunt her achievements, continued, “Your servant has nearly finished cultivating a new batch of worms. Not only can they control a person’s mind, but they can also command various extraordinary beasts. It’s a pity the likes of Hunter King seem to have failed this time. Otherwise, Your Highness’s collection of rarities would have grown considerably.”

Prince Can only rose and calmly told the worm cultivator, “Zhuer, you speak too much.”

The maidservant named Zhuer immediately fell silent and stood behind Prince Can as he left the pavilion.

If Wei Jie had not lingered after his mother’s performance to overhear this conversation between Prince Can and the voodoo cultivator, he would never have known the truth.

From the cryptic words of that cunning worm cultivator, once the puppet worm entered the body, it would travel through the meridians. Once it reached the heart, the voodoo would be complete, allowing the possessed victim to be controlled.

When Wei Jie realized his mother had been inflicted, but didn’t know how to resolve it, he contacted the Wei Family’s undercover agents in the city and wrote to his grandmother. He finally obtained these silver rings that could expel the voodoo worm.

However, this method was only effective for those recently inflicted. Fortunately, it arrived in time to cleanse Si Ling of the worm.

Si Ling frowned in contemplation, still unwilling to believe Prince Can would inflict her with a voodoo worm. “How is that possible? Prince Can has always obeyed my every command without making excessive demands…”

As a femme fatale, her bewitching charm allowed her to play men in the palm of her hand. Those men would offer up everything just for a taste of her beauty.

Si Ling excelled at controlling men’s hearts, so she could not fathom how a man who submitted to her would secretly plot against her.

If this worm was truly planted by Prince Can, why had he never opposed her demands? Was his infatuation with her a ruse?

Si Ling had always thought she was the hunter lying in wait, holding Prince Can as her chess piece.

But now, she realized that the man who professed such deep affection for her was the true hunter.

She furrowed her brows and muttered to herself, “Is it because he discovered I am a femme fatale that he did this?”

Wei Jie said indifferently, “This man’s thoughts run deep, and he is fond of collecting strange beasts. Mother may not be the only one inflicted with the puppet worm.”

Listening silently from the side, Xiao Xiao suddenly recalled how Wei Jie had refused to let her eat or drink at last night’s banquet.

At the time, even the toast offered by Prince Can had been snatched away by Wei Jie to drink first as a gesture of respect.

Although Wei Jie had jokingly said he was worried about Xiao Xiao’s unrefined table manners, now it seemed he might have been preventing Prince Can from tampering with her food and drink.

When had he discovered that his mother was in Luoyi City?

After his brief reunion with his mother, Wei Jie had the Wei Family’s undercover agents escort her out of the city.

If it were just a normal persuasion, Si Ling would not have left willingly. But being unknowingly inflicted with the puppet worm meant she had already become a piece on someone else’s chessboard.

From Wei Jie’s words, Si Ling learned that the Wei Family had detected the undercurrents in Luoyi City and made corresponding arrangements. If she remained, she would inevitably disrupt the Wei Family’s plans. For her son’s sake, she was willing to temporarily set aside her vendetta against the Four Great Sects and seek an opportunity another day.

On the day Wei Jie sent his mother away, Xiao Xiao silently watched from the side, truly relieved.

Regardless, with Si Ling leaving the city, perhaps her fate of being forced to death by the Four Great Sects could be avoided. And Wei Jie would not have to witness his mother’s tragic demise, falling into an unbreakable demonic obsession and slaughtering the Four Great Sects’ elders.

Xiao Xiao had never expected the matter that had constantly troubled her to be resolved so easily.

She suddenly realized that despite their daily interactions, she did not truly understand this man.

It seemed he had concealed many things from her.

Of course, she had also hidden much from him. So the master-disciple bond between them was indeed quite hypocritical!

As if to make amends for the harm done to their relationship by these secrets, on the way back to the city, Wei Jie did explain things to Xiao Xiao.

It turned out that in the letter he had received from his grandmother in the Wei Family, she had informed him of his mother Si Ling’s presence in Luoyi City.

However, his grandmother did not write to facilitate a reunion between mother and son. Rather, it was to notify him to assist the Wei Family’s undercover agents in investigating the city lord, Prince Can.

His grandmother suspected that the incident of the Corpse-Eating Beast escaping from the underworld was no accident.

Upon further investigation, they discovered that one of the Wei Family’s guards watching over the underworld had been inflicted with this puppet worm.

The seeds of these puppet worms had actually been brought out from the underworld by a renegade member of the Wei Family long ago. Now that their existence had been discovered, the Wei Family matriarch immediately sealed the information and began a secret investigation.

That guard had been inflicted for a very long time, and the puppet worm had grown to the size of a fist, impossible to remove. On his deathbed, coughing up blood, he revealed the truth.

It was under someone’s command that he had secretly released the Corpse-Eating Beast.

At that time, many beast hunters had gathered around Mount Qilao, as if anticipating the escape of a demonic beast from the underworld.

Such an elaborate arrangement could not be attributed to the peculiar hunting hobbies of a mere nobleman. The matriarch suspected there was another objective behind this, so she began a covert investigation along that trail.

Fortunately, there were not many people in the world capable of cultivating these puppet worms. Based on the lead of the renegade who had originally escaped, the Wei Family quickly traced his daughter, who had become a guest at Prince Can’s manor in Luoyi City. They also unexpectedly discovered that the femme fatale Si Ling was in the city as well.

Knowing that her grandson Wei Jie would also be coming to Luoyi City, the matriarch wrote him that letter and returned the enchanted whip – the ceremonial item bestowed upon coming-of-age Wei Family scions.

Hearing Wei Jie’s explanation, Xiao Xiao was filled with profound reflections.

So that was it – no wonder Wei Jie had hesitated so long before entering the city.

He had been separated from his mother at a young age. Even after growing up and understanding her difficulties, he would still have unresolved feelings. His hesitation then was likely due to uncertainty about reuniting with her.

The Wei Family matriarch was indeed a tough old nut, with many twists and turns in her mind.

Xiao Xiao guessed that apart from preventing her grandson from being caught off guard by Si Ling’s presence, the matriarch’s actions were also another test for Wei Jie – to see if he would follow his father’s path and how he would handle his relationship with his demonic mother.

Perhaps in the original trajectory two hundred years ago, the Wei Family had also deployed undercover agents in the city.

However, in that original trajectory, Wei Jie had a notorious reputation, made even worse by the disastrous Ghost Quarter medical case, earning him infamy.

The Wei Family’s undercover agents in the city would likely not have given him any favorable reports.

Shouldering such an important responsibility, the Wei Family naturally would not welcome a crooked scion back into the fold, let alone associate with Wei Jie again.

If Xiao Xiao’s conjecture was correct, how tragic and helpless the Wei Jie of the previous life must have been!

At the very least, up until now, Xiao Xiao felt that the Wei Jie of the original trajectory had unfairly borne far too much undeserved infamy.

Even if he might turn demonic in the future, Xiao Xiao did not consider him to be an unforgivable villain at present.

The Wei Jie who originally shouldered false accusations, witnessing the tragic death of the mother he had been separated from since childhood – how furious and resentful he must have felt, yet with no outlet to vent?

Thinking of this, Xiao Xiao could only sigh silently. Amitabha Buddha, she actually had the thought that the Four Great Sects deserved to be slain by Wei Jie in the previous life.

She herself was possessed by the demon bead, so having such malicious thoughts was unacceptable! Xiao Xiao hurriedly recited a mind-purification mantra to dispel the wicked notion.

However, from this perspective, that low-profile Prince Can from the previous life was quite the remarkable figure!

Few men in this world could resist being beguiled by a femme fatale’s charms. This Prince Can had to be one of them.

A man’s ability to remain unswayed by feminine beauty generally fell into two categories: one was eunuchs, the other was those with an obsession more intoxicating than beauty itself.

This Prince Can did not seem to belong to either category.

However, recalling Prince Can’s meaningful gaze towards Wei Jie, Xiao Xiao suspected he might fall into the latter.

Could it be that this Prince Can preferred masculine beauty?

Upon hearing his master’s preposterous conjecture, Wei Jie gave her a sidelong glance and coldly laughed, “Are you saying I’m effeminate enough to submit beneath another man?”

Um… Xiao Xiao grinned, implying that perhaps Prince Can himself preferred to be on the receiving end.

Wei Jie continued his cold laugh, agreeing with Yu Ling’er’s earlier remark that Cui Xiao Xiao was well-suited to lead the Passion Sect.

“You think being unswayed by a femme fatale’s charms means one prefers men? In this world, there are actually things more intoxicating than beauty,” Wei Jie said slowly.

Mistaken Era chapter 37 p2

Seated inside was the woman in the long dress she had seen at the tavern. She now wore a magnificent brocade robe, her ebony hair elaborately coiffed, with a thin gauze veil covering her face.

Xiao Xiao noticed that the woman’s bewitching purple eyes held an otherworldly tinge. This purple hue seemed even deeper and richer than Wei Jie’s eye color.

So Xiao Xiao first said, “You…are Wei Jie’s mother, aren’t you?”

The woman also scrutinized Xiao Xiao, and upon hearing her question, smiled wryly, “So you really do know who I am. In that case, you must also know about my origins, yet you still dare to enter the carriage?”

Xiao Xiao blinked her large eyes. “You…know that Wei Jie changed his surname from the one with the ‘ghost’ radical Wei, but are you more inclined for your son to take another surname?”

Between intelligent people, words need not be explicit to grasp each other’s meaning.

The woman said indifferently, “A man born to this world, as long as he is a dragon or phoenix, will not remain trapped in a puddle, but will inevitably make a resounding name for himself. In that case, what does a surname matter? These are trivial matters.”

Xiao Xiao shook her head slightly and said in a low voice, “A surname may not be important, nor does it matter much if one is human or ghost. But if that ‘ghost’ takes root in one’s heart, it makes a great difference. As a mother, one would naturally hope for their child to become a dragon or phoenix. There are divine dragons that bless the human realm with rain, and evil dragons that bring disaster. I wonder what your hopes are for your child?”

The woman did not expect Xiao Xiao to broach the subject so directly upon entering.

She smiled faintly, finally slowly removing the gauze veil from her face. “You make a fair point, miss. Although I could not fulfil my duties as a mother and was forced to separate from my young son, my love for him has not diminished in the slightest. Of course I hope for Jielang’s(Wei Jie)(1)* safety and wellbeing…”

A femme fatale’s beauty was bewitching. Seeing the woman’s face clearly now, Xiao Xiao suddenly understood that the most captivating beauty did not lie in coy glances or alluring charm.

But rather, with a single look, it was as if you were drawn into a boundless quagmire, sinking uncontrollably until you were completely lost.

Si Ling’s beauty was despairing, impossible to escape…

Si Ling saw Xiao Xiao avert her gaze and press her throat before turning to look out the window. She couldn’t help but laugh, “What’s wrong? Am I so frightening that you dare not look at me?”

Xiao Xiao replied honestly, “I have somewhat of a lustful nature. Regardless of gender, I cannot help but stare at great beauty. Madam, you are too beautiful – I fear being entranced and acting disrespectfully if I gaze too long.”

Si Ling was amused by Xiao Xiao’s candid words.

It seemed this young master that Jielang took as his teacher was quite interesting. Despite her tender age, each of her words carried a subtle edge, and she appeared very protective of Jielang, befitting the role of a master.

Si Ling also knew that yesterday, Cui Xiao Xiao had led Jielang to slay the evil spirit-doctor plaguing Ghost Alley.

This young lady indeed possessed extraordinary abilities…

At that moment, Xiao Xiao asked again, “Madam, you clearly saw Jielang yesterday, yet avoided him. Why have you sought him out in person today? Is there some inconvenience at the prince’s manor?”

Si Ling nodded slightly and said in a soft voice, “I am currently staying at the pleasure pavilion. If people knew he was my son, I fear he would be mocked. So yesterday at the prince’s manor, I avoided him. I came here for two reasons – one was to see you, the other was to see Jielang. However, after meeting you, I feel it is enough, and there is no need to see him…”

It seemed that after being separated from her son for so long, Si Ling felt apprehensive about their reunion, developing cold feet despite her longing to see him.

Xiao Xiao knew that this reunion between Si Ling and her son had deviated from the original trajectory.

In the previous timeline two hundred years ago, Wei Jie was branded the Demonic Killer, yet Prince Can, out of great favor for his talents, suppressed several of his murder cases.

Owing such a tremendous debt of gratitude, Wei Jie naturally felt obliged. Prince Can then tracked down Wei Jie’s birth mother Si Ling based on his distinct purple eyes, allowing the mother and son to reunite.

In any case, in the previous timeline, Prince Can became Wei Jie’s close friend, while this mother and son were both honored guests at the prince’s manor.

Now, because Cui Xiao Xiao had slain the possessing demon, defending justice in front of the Four Great Sects, the Lingshan Talisman Sect’s banner remained upright, and the righteous master and disciple no longer owed any gratitude.

At last night’s banquet, the other three sects had stolen their thunder, allowing the master and disciple to make a low-profile exit without much interaction with the prince.

So the reunion between this mother and son, initially facilitated by the prince, never came to pass. In this lifetime, instead of the prince acting as a go-between, Si Ling came to seek out her son herself.

And due to Yu Ling’er’s meddling, Si Ling did not get to meet Wei Jie, but rather encountered Cui Xiao Xiao first.

Hearing Xiao Xiao’s words, Si Ling realized the young lady was implying she did not wish for Si Ling and Wei Jie to reunite.

Although Wei Jie’s bloodline was impure, viewed with disdain by many, he was still a descendant of the Wei Family after all.

If he truly gave in to his demonic nature, his entire life would be overshadowed by his femme fatale heritage, unable to live as a respectable human.

And now, with Si Ling lurking in Luoyi City, only able to don make-up and perform at night, relying on her singing voice to enchant others, if people knew Wei Jie had such a mother, he would never be able to hold his head high.

Seeing that this young master of Wei Jie’s was not a hypocritical or cruel person, Si Ling felt reassured that even if she could not reunite with her son in this lifetime, it did not matter.

After all, her heart was filled with the bitterness of vengeance for her late husband, and in this life, if she could not bring down the Four Great Sects, she would not rest in peace!

However, Xiao Xiao’s intention was not to prevent their reunion, but rather to ensure that Si Ling did not instill her own vengeance into Wei Jie.

As the saying goes, a child never finds their mother ugly, just as a dog does not scorn its poor family. To Xiao Xiao, who was born to street cons, there was nothing unseemly about being a songstress.

As long as Si Ling harbored no malicious intent and simply earned an honest living singing for her keep, it was better than leading disciples to perform for alms on the streets!

Xiao Xiao’s main concern was whether Si Ling could heed her advice to temporarily leave Luoyi City and avoid directly confronting the Four Great Sects.

However, after hearing Xiao Xiao’s persuasion, Si Ling only curved her lips into a faint, cold smile. “You need not worry about me. I have operated here for a long time and know how to take care of myself. I will not be leaving this place.”

“…Then you should heed her words and depart from Luoyi City.”

Just as the two were at an impasse, Wei Jie’s voice suddenly came from outside the carriage.

The carriage had long since traveled out of the city to a secluded bamboo grove.

Hearing the composed masculine voice, Si Ling’s phoenix eyes widened slightly, her lips pursed, as she slowly parted the window curtain to gaze upon her reunited son after their long separation.

The child she remembered was just a bald little turnip head, yet now he had grown into such a towering, handsome man!

Although his eyebrows and eyes resembled his mother’s, his physique and bearing were more like his late father’s.

That steadfast yet gentle man, the kindest soul in this world, suddenly overlapped with her son’s image in that instant.

Si Ling’s lips trembled as she stumbled out of the carriage.

Her son was so tall now that she had to look up at him.

Si Ling still remembered when she left Mount Qilao, little Jielang had secretly run out, clutching her robes as he cried and begged to go with her.

But she had steeled her heart and left him behind. The child had stood on the mountain, screaming desperately at her, “Mother, please take me with you! If you don’t take me, I’ll never acknowledge you again…”

That time, she never looked back, but her son’s words had been etched into her heart.

---

Jielang’s(Wei Jie)(1)* = A’jie  : A’ : prefix used before monosyllabic names, kinship terms etc to indicate familiarity.

Chapter 37 p1

Xiao Xiao gave an embarrassed laugh, then asked in return, “If the demon bead inside me cannot be suppressed…will you listen to your grandmother and nail me to death?”

Wei Jie pondered this seriously, then turned to look at Xiao Xiao with certainty. “You won’t become demonic.”

“Why?”

Wei Jie smiled lazily. “Your heart holds no hatred, so how could you become demonic? You still haven’t answered my question.”

Seeing that changing the subject was useless, Xiao Xiao could only say helplessly, “Why did you ask that question?”

The man brushed his long, jet-black hair, letting the strands spill through his fingertips indifferently. “Didn’t you hear what the possessing demon said when it saw me? I have a half-demonic physique, making it easier for me to turn demonic. For those possessing demons, I’m the perfect host.”

Xiao Xiao knew Wei Jie spoke the truth.

In the original trajectory, not only would he turn demonic, but he would also become the paramount leader of the demonic path, slaughtering the Four Great Sects and even attempting to open the gates of the underworld, killing the entire Wei Family clan and sparking great chaos across the three realms…

He was indeed prone to going down the evil path…

Xiao Xiao knew that this was not something human power could change, for this was Wei Jie’s destined fate. Only by him successfully turning demonic could she accomplish her mission and retreat back two hundred years without a trace.

He was originally her master’s venerated ancestor mentioned in the secret text, yet he was extremely evil.

And she must not show him the slightest bit of sympathy…

However…she had been using this disciple’s money and provisions, accepting his filial piety and care. As the saying goes, “Eating from one’s mouth makes the heart soft.” After all, it was a master-disciple relationship. Even if she knew he might return to his original trajectory and meet a tragic end, as his master, she should fulfill her duty before her disciple’s demise.

After finding various excuses to help her disciple, she suddenly felt relieved. She poured Wei Jie a cup of wine and kindly comforted him, “I’m possessed by the demon bead, making it easier for you to turn demonic. Isn’t this just tit for tat? Even if this disciple can accept a poor master, how can I as the master be picky?”

Wei Jie didn’t know if he was moved by Xiao Xiao’s words or if he sensed her veiled insult, only giving her a profound smile.

After the perfunctory words, she cleared her throat and continued, “The matter with the ghost doctor tonight has given me many thoughts…”

Wei Jie took the wine and arched his brow, waiting for her next words as she rarely spoke so seriously.

Xiao Xiao carefully chose her words. “In this life, one must never forget their original intention. Take that ghost doctor – even if his original intention was to cure illnesses and save people, once obsessed, his thoughts became extreme. One step wrong leads all steps astray… So whether one is suited to turn demonic is not for the demons to decide, but for you. The world is vast, what cannot be accommodated? If you encounter troubles in the future, just go to the Northern Wastes as you wished. Perhaps seeing the great roc spread its wings will bring clarity, and no demon could ensnare you. Remember your master’s words. When faced with difficulties, do not stray from the right path. Enmity should be resolved, not created. Even the greatest grudge cannot be settled by simply meeting violence with violence…”

Wei Jie watched Xiao Xiao’s rarely serious and tense little face, then slowly brought the full wine cup to her lips with an probing tone, “Master, your words seem to imply something else. Could you speak in more detail, such as which step I might misstep and end up killing someone?”

Xiao Xiao could not speak so explicitly. She took a big gulp from the wine cup Wei Jie held, her face flushed red from the alcohol, thinking about how to subtly advise him without revealing too much.

Unexpectedly, Wei Jie continued after her, “Actually, I understand. You’ve been trying various ways to persuade and dissuade me, afraid that I’ll tarnish the Talisman Sect’s reputation in the future. After all, my blood isn’t pure, so it’s easy to invite criticism… Otherwise, why would you treat your grand-disciple Tang Youshu better than me?”

Um… well…

Although Xiao Xiao loved to deceive others, she didn’t want to deceive Wei Jie.

However, by heaven’s witness, she truly had no intention of purging her ranks today!

She was about to open her mouth, but Wei Jie gently placed a finger on her cherry lips, the corners of his thin lips curling up as he said in a deep voice, “Shh. The moonlight is beautiful tonight, and the wine is mellow enough. Why speak of such dispiriting matters? We’ve seen enough demonic monsters tonight. How about appreciating a beauty under the moonlight? That should make this fine night worthwhile.”

Xiao Xiao had thought herself accustomed to this demon’s lack of decorum, but she still blushed at his casual remark of “beauty”, and seeing his piercing gaze fixed on her, she could only twist her face and say gruffly, “Don’t appreciate me…”

However, Wei Jie only smiled, revealing his tiger-like fangs. With his robe half-open, exposing his muscular chest and abdomen, he stretched his waist languidly, lying half on the roof beams. His purple eyes sparkled as he slowly said to Xiao Xiao, “I mean, don’t let such a fine night go to waste by failing to appreciate my peerless beauty…”

This… Xiao Xiao was so angry she almost slid off the roof beams.

…If speaking of beauty, she knew she couldn’t compare to this man’s bewitching charm. But for him to call himself a beauty was simply too shameless!

Alright, it was her own kindness wasted on this mangy mutt. What did his life or death have to do with her?

Xiao Xiao was about to leave the roof beams in anger when Wei Jie pulled her back with a laugh. Seeing his angry master’s pouty face, he chuckled again. Only after finally calming her down did he slowly speak with a faint smile, turning serious, “Master, don’t be angry. I was appreciating you, that’s all.”

As if to show his sincerity, the smile faded from his face as he continued seriously, “Although I’ve wandered far and wide, the most beautiful lady I’ve ever seen is Cui Xiao Xiao of Lingshan…”

As he said this, he leaned in close to her, so close that Xiao Xiao could smell the faint wine aroma from his mouth and see her small reflection in his deep purple eyes…

In fact, those were the words she should have said. Wei Jie was the most beautiful person she had seen in her past and future two hundred years…

The famous Luoyi wine lived up to its reputation – its mellow, sweet taste was like the warm June breeze, flushing Xiao Xiao’s cheeks an even deeper red.

For a moment, she forgot what to say, only blinking her large eyes as they silently gazed at each other under the moonlight.

Intoxicated by his masculine beauty, the small wine cup slipped from her hand, rolling and clattering across the roof tiles.

At that moment, the roof seemed to be forcefully struck several times by a bamboo pole from below, making a loud thumping sound. Then Yu Ling’er’s shrill fox-like voice came from downstairs.

“Not content with the guest rooms, you had to come flirting on my roof! All that whispering and tinkling above my head, do you think you’ll let anyone sleep?!”

Yu Ling’er had intended to enjoy a good night’s sleep on the soft bedding while Xiao Xiao was away.

Little did she expect the returned couple to end up on the roof, teasing each other, angering Yu Ling’er enough to grab a bamboo pole from the outer corridor and forcefully strike the roof.

In an instant, the master and disciple’s night wine party was interrupted by a bamboo pole.

By the time Xiao Xiao returned to her room, the redness in her cheeks had finally faded.

So what if he turned demonic? From what she saw, this bastard was already possessed by lust, and if she wasn’t careful, she would have followed his wicked ways!

Relying on his femme fatale bloodline, he could bat his seductive eyes at any moment, completely shameless!

Even towards his own master, he could behave so teasingly. No wonder Yu Ling’er, a mountain spirit, couldn’t stand it and scolded him for belonging to the Passion Sect!

It’s unknown if he has seduced other village maidens in private.

Recalling the original trajectory where he eventually transformed into a serpentine form covered in scales, perhaps the heavens punished him this way for relying on his masculine charm to seduce naive young ladies.

Yu Ling’er sat back down on the cushion, snorting angrily, “You might as well just go to his room. Why bother pretending to come back here?”

Xiao Xiao glared at her. “What are you thinking? The night I stayed in his room, Wei Jie went to Tang Youshu’s room!”

Yu Ling’er rolled her eyes exaggeratedly. “Get over yourself! When you went to see the doctor, I chatted with Tang Youshu and asked him. He said he slept alone that night – Wei Jie never entered his room!”

Upon hearing this, Xiao Xiao was dumbstruck, too distracted to even respond to Yu Ling’er’s mocking words.

On that night when the enchanting singing could be heard, he hadn’t returned to his room at all? Then…where had he gone? Could it be…to see his mother?

If so, Xiao Xiao should have been glad that his life was finally back on the right track.

However, for the rest of the night, accompanied by the little fox’s snores on the floor, Xiao Xiao tossed and turned, unable to sleep.

At this moment, her con man father’s warning became a life truth.

In the past, when she couldn’t bear to deceive people on the streets, he would twist her ear and say, “You’re worried they’ll lose their money pouch and go hungry, but have you considered that you’re about to starve on the streets yourself? Sympathizing with strangers is for fools and idiots!”

Now it was the same – if she sympathized with the future demon lord, who would sympathize with her when she was punished by the heavens and torn to shreds?

With this thought, Xiao Xiao tried to think of happier things, like how this medical trip wasn’t in vain, as she had slain the ghost doctor, upheld justice, and her arm injury was mostly healed.

Without the pain of her injured arm, she could sleep soundly. Finally, around late morning, Xiao Xiao fell asleep.

Sleeping in so late violated the path of practicing inner cultivation.

However, Yu Ling’er clearly didn’t approve of her laziness. After breakfast, the little fox who had been watching chickens peck at grains and licking her lips in the inn courtyard came running upstairs.

Entering the room, Yu Ling’er woke Cui Xiao Xiao with a gossipy look on her face. “Wake up! Let me tell you, a fox seductress has come looking for Wei Jie!”

Still drowsy, Xiao Xiao simply nodded after hearing this. “Since a member of your fox tribe has come, just receive her properly.”

Yu Ling’er was almost angry enough to reveal her fox ears, rolling her eyes helplessly. “Not from Mount Tuyun in our fox tribe! A seductress from the Pleasure Quarter!”

How vexing for humans to constantly associate them foxes with that word – it was insulting enough!

These words finally made the Sect Master stick her tousled little head out from under the covers. She put on her clothes and went to the window, looking down to see an luxurious carriage stopped in front of the inn.

Xiao Xiao recognized this carriage – it was the same one the songstress who almost caused her to jump off the building had alighted from.

Recalling this, she turned to ask Yu Ling’er, “Where did the woman from that carriage go?”

Yu Ling’er was very alert. “Her maidservant came up asking about Wei Jie. I saw the woman wearing a veil, so I couldn’t see her face, but the carriage bore the sign of the Drunken Joy Pavilion – clearly an unsavory place. That woman’s demeanor was also more seductive than yours. If she finds Wei Jie, you’re bound to be overshadowed. So I told her Wei Jie was out of the city!”

Yu Ling’er had now picked up some worldly cunning and deception.

In fact, Wei Jie hadn’t left the city at all. After eating breakfast, he had gone to the market with Tang Youshu to buy braised dishes as a late breakfast for the sleeping Cui Xiao Xiao.

Xiao Xiao didn’t understand why Yu Ling’er had misled the woman.

However, Yu Ling’er looked at Xiao Xiao as if she were an idiot. “Why ask? My mother told me to serve you, so of course I have to look out for you and prevent you from being abandoned by Wei Jie…”

It seemed Yu Ling’er had concluded that there was something improper between Xiao Xiao and Wei Jie. Now that such a seductive fox spirit had come, repaying her master’s kindness, she had to keep an eye on the man!

The fox tribe hated nothing more than men being fickle, so although Cui Xiao Xiao and Wei Jie were entangled, they had to be faithful and committed to each other until the end!

It was only then that Xiao Xiao understood the little fox’s convoluted reasoning.

She was too lazy to correct the misunderstanding between her and Wei Jie, only asking, “If that’s what you say, why hasn’t she left yet?”

Yu Ling’er shook her head. “Should I just go and drive her away?”

Xiao Xiao took a deep breath and, after simply tidying her hair, put on her robe and headed downstairs, ready to meet the mysterious woman in the carriage herself.

Clearly, the woman didn’t believe Yu Ling’er’s words and was still waiting in the carriage for Wei Jie to return.

When Xiao Xiao revealed her identity as Wei Jie’s master outside the carriage, a slender white hand parted the carriage curtain, followed by a crisp, melodious voice like a sweet spring, “You…are Master Xiao Xiao, Jielang’s teacher?”

The voice seemed to grasp her heart, controlling her breathing with its delicate, boneless hand.

Xiao Xiao silently pressed her side windpool acupoint to steady her mind, then calmly said, “I don’t know what business you have seeking Wei Jie, but may I pass on a message on your behalf?”

Through the window screen, the woman seemed to notice Xiao Xiao’s cautious pressing of her acupoints to protect her inner spirit, letting out a wistful laugh. “That technique…was it taught to you by Jielang?”

Hearing her words, Xiao Xiao became more convinced of the woman’s identity.

She restrained herself again and again, reminding herself of her con man father’s words, but in the end, she could not go against her conscience, gritting her teeth. “If you’re looking for him, he’s not here…There have been many strange people in Luoyi City lately, making it unsuitable to stay. Please leave the city for your own safety, madam.”

The woman let out another resigned, bitter laugh. “The world may be vast, but where is a suitable place to reside? Miss, you call me madam, but do you know who I am?”

Xiao Xiao probed, “Didn’t we meet at the prince’s manor last night?”

The woman fell silent for a moment, then asked, “There are too many prying ears here. Would the young lady be willing to enter the carriage so we may find a quieter place to converse in detail?”

Xiao Xiao estimated the time – Wei Jie and the others should be returning with the braised dishes soon.

Since she had already spoken up, she might as well help to the end and see if a mother-son tragedy could be averted.

So without hesitation, she entered the carriage.

Chapter 36

This ghost doctor’s lifelong pursuit was to gain people’s reverence and praise. Even if he himself was still a mediocre doctor, and the medical skills he borrowed were nothing more than demonic powers, he could still immerse himself in this illusion and be unable to extricate himself.

But now, this young lady was looking at him coldly and with disdain, as if looking at foul water in a ditch.

This contemptuous sideways glance, as if an older sister was glaring at her foolish and incompetent younger brother who had caused their father’s death…

In this moment, he was frightened by his guilty conscience, crying with tears streaming down his face. In an instant, he was beaten back to his original form, once again becoming the unconfident person he used to be.

“Please, let me treat your illness, I will do my best, I definitely won’t cause another patient’s death…”

Xiao Xiao looked at his manic, fickle appearance and couldn’t help sighing inwardly: Although the pain from the injuries on her body was indeed difficult to treat, looking at it now, what was most difficult to treat was the human heart.

In her view, the one most in need of treatment was this mediocre doctor who had been possessed by a demon to satisfy his own delusional vanity!

However, after the ghost doctor cried for a while, he suddenly thought of something and looked up with a cunning smile: “No, you don’t dare to kill me! In this world, besides me, there’s no one who can heal your arm. Tsk tsk, injuries from heavenly punishment, it seems you’re not a good person either, why pretend to be a saint in front of me?”

Xiao Xiao also smiled and leaned a bit closer, while pressing her sword tightly against his neck: “Is that so? If that’s really the case, I would rather cut off my own arm than need treatment from a vicious person like you!”

With that said, she swung her precious sword, about to stab into the young man’s Ghost Palace acupoint. Once stabbed, the demon possessing his body would be forced to separate.

But just at this moment, the door to this ghost alley courtyard was forcibly pushed open.

A large group of people carrying swords and sabers rushed into the courtyard.

Xiao Xiao turned her head to look, oh, they were all old acquaintances!

It could be seen that people from the Four Great Sects had once again gathered in the small alley of Luoyi City.

The leader was the long-bearded elder of Ebony Peak. As soon as he saw Wei Jie and Cui Xiao Xiao, he immediately frowned with his long eyebrows and said, “Why is it you two again? What are you doing here? Could it be… the people outside were all killed by you?”

Xiao Xiao quickly pointed to the young man under her sword: “You’ve misunderstood, this person is the real culprit!”

It turned out that the Three Great Sects had received a letter from Soaring Cloud Pavilion, saying that they had discovered something strange in Luoyi City. Every year during the Ghost Festival, there would be evil demons slaughtering people at the vegetable market entrance.

It just so happened that last year, a relative of a disciple from Ebony Peak had come to seek medical treatment and had also become a victim. At the time, they had no idea why he had collapsed on the streets of Luoyi.

Now, after reading the letter from Soaring Cloud Pavilion, that disciple cried and pleaded in front of the sect elders, begging his fellow disciples to uncover the truth. Naturally, subduing demons and monsters was the duty of the Four Great Sects.

This time, the Four Great Sects had gathered a large army to subjugate the evil demons. Timing it just right, they hurried over to investigate.

As a result, as soon as they arrived, they discovered that there seemed to be a demonic aura in this place, and there was even a “Nineteenth Lane” that did not exist in the city.

However, they didn’t expect that when they rushed in along the alley filled with corpses, they would encounter Wei Jie and his master from the Talisman Sect, Cui Xiao Xiao.

Last time at Mount Qilao, the Four Great Sects had an unpleasant confrontation with these two. They didn’t expect to encounter them again this time.

When they heard Xiao Xiao say that the murderer was the young man she was forcing with her sword, the elder frowned suspiciously.

Right now, that young man had a sickly appearance, was as thin as a skeleton, had a deathly pale face, and had tears in his eyes. No matter how you looked at him, he didn’t seem capable of killing anyone.

Moreover, as soon as that ghost doctor saw people rushing in, he immediately cried out, “Save me! I was forced into the courtyard by these two people. They said they needed a living person as a sacrifice to call the ghost doctor to treat an illness… They… They want to use me as an offering!”

Hearing this, several disciples from Wonderful Immortal Mountain angrily shouted, “Wei Jie! You demon, you’re actually so vicious. You and your master are simply in cahoots with each other!”

With someone taking the lead, the others also started making a racket. In an instant, the crowd was in an uproar, seeming like they wanted to immediately apprehend this master and disciple pair from the Talisman Sect. The insults hurled at them also became more and more excessive.

Wei Jie always had a carefree and flippant appearance, but Xiao Xiao now knew what some of his subtle expressions meant.

For example, right now, when the corners of his eyes were curved, but the right corner of his mouth lifted first, it looked like he was smiling, but he was actually truly angry!

Xiao Xiao saw that the people from the Four Great Sects indeed still hadn’t made much progress, galloping forward on the path of seeking death.

According to the original trajectory from two hundred years ago, these people should have come to Luoyi City a few days later to surround Wei Jie’s fox demon mother, and then have an intense battle with Wei Jie.

But now, they had arrived in Luoyi City early and encountered them in this ghost alley, which was very different from the previous trajectory.

Who knew where things had gone wrong again.

However, the Four Great Sects misunderstanding the Talisman Sect disciples of sacrificing living people was a false accusation that disgraced their sect, and couldn’t be borne!

Thinking of this, Xiao Xiao no longer hesitated. She raised her sword and stabbed towards the young man’s Ghost Palace acupoint, the acupoint of that lying ghost doctor.

The gemstones on the ancient treasure sword “Defying the Heavens” were imbued with heavenly punishment energy. The moment the sword light pierced the acupoint, it was like heavenly punishment descending.

That young ghost doctor immediately couldn’t hold on. As his eyes rolled back, he raised his hands, scattering red dust, trying to make a final struggle.

That originally fair face actually took on the ferocious appearance of a skeleton, and then wrinkles rapidly appeared on his face. In an instant, he changed from a youthful young man into an old man with skin like a walnut.

It was clear to discerning eyes that this was a sign of the separation of man and demon. It seemed this young man had been possessed by the demon for quite some time!

To the extent that after the separation, the young man immediately aged. Sobbing, he cried out, “No… Don’t abandon me… I don’t want to become a mediocre doctor again. I’ll help you kill even more people! I can’t accept this…”

Crying until the end, he finally passed away with a whimper. From his bleeding nostrils, a spider-like insect escaped.

After emerging from the nostrils, that insect expanded as if blown up, becoming the size of a fist, and even had a face with disheveled hair.

That demon quickly surveyed the surroundings. Suddenly, its eyes flashed with wild joy. Without any hesitation, it rushed towards Wei Jie, even shouting with ecstasy, “There’s actually such a suitable body for demonification. Quick, I’ll help you fulfill your wish…”

But Wei Jie just stood there motionlessly, with no intention of dodging at all.

Just as that demonic spider spat out demon silk that was about to reach Wei Jie, Cui Xiao Xiao, with quick eyes and hands, slashed with her sword, cutting that large spider into two segments.

And just as Xiao Xiao slayed that demon, the wounds on her arm that had been unable to heal all along seemed to have gotten much better in an instant…

It seemed that slaying demons and monsters counted as an act of merit, seemingly offsetting the wrath of heavenly punishment, allowing her wounds to heal quite a bit.

The moment that possessing demon died, the alley it had transformed also suddenly disappeared without a trace.

Everyone now flashed back to the vegetable market street entrance on the east side of Luoyi City, surrounded by closed shops.

On the ground lay the hunters who had killed each other earlier, as well as the withered corpse of that ghost doctor.

Among the disciples of the Four Great Sects, quite a few had inhaled the red demonic dust the ghost doctor scattered just before dying. The toxicity now took effect, causing their killing intent to be exposed. They actually started chasing and hacking at their own fellow disciples.

Fortunately, the elders leading the various sects had much experience. They pressed on their disciples’ guardian acupoints, knocking them out on the ground.

At this point, Xiao Xiao didn’t need to say anything. The facts were glaringly obvious, slapping the Four Great Sects in the face.

The Four Great Sects swallowed back the insults that had been at the tips of their tongues, not knowing where to spew them now.

The elder from Ebony Peak was the first to recover. He cleared his throat and said, “In the matter of subduing demons and monsters, one must not act recklessly alone. If your Talisman Sect had notified us Four Great Sects earlier, it would have avoided this fearless misunderstanding!”

Xiao Xiao put away her long sword, slightly lifted her chin and said as if suddenly realizing, “So that’s how it is. Senior, this junior and my disciple have learned a lesson!”

That elder was just trying to smooth things over with some irrelevant words. Who knew this young lady from the Talisman Sect wouldn’t make a fuss and only laughingly went along with what he said, making it impossible for them to continue shamelessly blaming her.

Speaking of which, this master and disciple pair had subdued a demon and upheld justice, doing nothing wrong. Instead, it was them who had first committed the verbal wrongdoing of harshly berating this master and disciple pair for no reason.

Just at this moment, just like in the trajectory of the previous life, the night watchman on patrol passed by. Seeing the ground covered in corpses and a group of armed men, he was so frightened that he hurriedly started sounding his copper gong.

Thereupon, a large group of soldiers came swarming over, surrounding them so tightly that not even water could trickle through.

It was now just past midnight, and their clamorous noise echoed through the empty streets.

Under the cover of night, the white-robed man standing on the roof of a tall building not far away heard the words Xiao Xiao and the others had just spoken, and the ancient treasure sword Xiao Xiao held also entered his field of vision.

This sword… Wasn’t it “Defying the Heavens”? It should have been Wei Jie’s sword, how did it end up in Cui Xiao Xiao’s hands?

This man was none other than Qin Lingxiao. As the final owner of this ancient sword two hundred years later, he was also extremely shocked and angry at this moment!

Actually, this segment of Wei Jie visiting the ghost doctor was within his expectations.

Although in the original trajectory, he had not taken Wei Jie as his master at this time and was not in Luoyi City.

But Qin Lingxiao clearly remembered Tang Youshu telling him that after Wei Jie’s arm was severed at Mount Qilao, he had come to Luoyi City to seek treatment from the ghost doctor. Moreover, that ghost doctor was very effective. After Wei Jie returned from seeing the doctor alone, his severed arm had healed.

Although later on, it was said that ghost doctor seemed to have also been killed by Wei Jie and never appeared again.

But as for what exactly happened in between, even Tang Youshu didn’t know.

However, the fact that Wei Jie had committed murder in Luoyi City was absolutely certain. Although Wei Jie later gained King Can’s appreciation and was able to escape the crime of massacre.

But when Qin Lingxiao heard Tang Youshu unintentionally mention this, he gnashed his silver teeth, feeling that Wei Jie was killing people like scything flax, his crimes piling up to heaven.

If he had been in Luoyi City at that time, he definitely wouldn’t have let this demon escape the responsibility for his crimes!

Qin Lingxiao, who had left Mount Tuyun early, didn’t know that Xiao Xiao had taken on most of the heavenly punishment for Wei Jiu.

After leaving the fox mountain, he returned to Soaring Cloud Pavilion. While using the power of the spiritual spring to refine golden cores, he also deduced that as long as Wei Jiu was struck by heavenly punishment, he would still come to Luoyi to seek medical treatment like in the previous trajectory.

In his view, it was only natural for Wei Jie to take action and kill in order to obtain the sole right to treatment.

But this time, Wei Jie wouldn’t be so lucky as to gain the protection of the powerful and avoid bearing the crime of murder like before.

Only if the world saw the vicious heart of this nameless young man early on could they join hands to completely eliminate this scoundrel!

Therefore, Qin Lingxiao deliberately used some techniques to leak the secret of this ghost doctor, and gathered the people of the Four Great Sects to come to Luoyi City early, in order to block the way of the arm-severed, unhealed demon who kills.

But why had everything gotten messed up again? Wei Jie, who should have been receiving treatment, had now become Cui Xiao Xiao with an injured arm.

Moreover, they actually didn’t let the ghost doctor treat the injury. Instead, Cui Xiao Xiao used a treasure sword to force the ghost doctor to reveal his demonic form, exposing the fact that the ghost doctor had set up a trap to kill those seeking treatment. Then, right in front of the Four Great Sects, she personally slayed that chief culprit!

This… Wasn’t this greatly different from the original trajectory?

Seeing that long-bearded elder from Ebony Peak once again muddleheadedly playing the role of peacemaker, Qin Lingxiao felt a surge of anger in his heart!

Damn Cui Xiao Xiao! She must be messing things up again! Could it be that she wanted to support Wei Jie in becoming a world-renowned chivalrous hero?

Seeing the officials and soldiers gathering more and more on the streets, Qin Lingxiao knew that going down there himself would be of no use. He could only angrily clench his fists. After sending a signal to the Soaring Cloud Pavilion disciples to retreat, he turned and left the tall building.

And just at this moment, those officials and soldiers also heard everyone’s explanations. They saw the withered corpse of that ghost doctor, which was truly terrifying and detestable.

Homicide cases occurred in the city every year, but there were no clues. The officials and soldiers had long suspected that it was the work of ghosts and demons. Now, seeing a group of Daoist immortals with an air of transcendence gathered together, and then looking at that repulsive corpse, they could half-believe this story.

The disciples under Ebony Peak were numerous, and some of them made a living in Luoyi City. There were even some who knew the leading officials and soldiers. With such interaction and negotiation from both sides, things became much easier.

However, those officials and soldiers didn’t dare to make arbitrary decisions. They could only temporarily detain everyone and then report to King Can.

This time, it was indeed like the trajectory of the previous life. King Can, who took pleasure in making friends with extraordinary people, heard about it and immediately inquired about who the demon-slayer was. He then invited the two demon-slaying individuals from the Talisman Sect, Wei Jie and Cui Xiao Xiao, to the royal mansion for a chat.

Of course, King Can also extended an enthusiastic invitation to the Four Great Sects to come along.

However, among the Four Great Sects, the disciples of Soaring Cloud Pavilion always walked the path of being untainted by worldly dust. With an order from the young pavilion master, they took the excuse of immediately returning to report and gracefully departed.

As for the other three great sects, they gladly accepted the invitation and were treated as honored guests by the prince, invited into the royal mansion for wine.

It was now past midnight, and dawn would arrive in a few more hours, but from the looks of it, King Can seemed to have stayed up all night. He even personally came to the door to welcome them, showing his respect for the wise and able.

Because it was Xiao Xiao who had slain the demon, after hearing the introduction from the officials and soldiers, King Can couldn’t help sizing up this immortal swordswoman up and down.

It was just that this swordswoman looked really too young. When paired with that pair of big eyes that were gently smiling, there was actually a delicate and gentle feeling, making it really hard to imagine her slender arms swinging a sword to slay demons.

Instead, that tall and handsome unrestrained man beside her, looking at his powerful long arms and the faint sharpness flashing in his purple eyes, even carrying an oppressive aura…

Observing Wei Jie’s faintly purple eyes, King Can’s smile became even more amiable.

And Xiao Xiao, after performing a salute, also lifted her head to size up this young prince.

This prince favored by the current emperor, King Can, looked to be not yet thirty, cultured and refined, carrying the regal air of the royal family, but his speech and conduct were quite approachable.

He lavished praise on Xiao Xiao and the Four Great Sects for their chivalrous hearts and courage, ridding the people of Luoyi City of a scourge. Therefore, he wanted to hold a grand feast on behalf of all the city’s residents to thank the various extraordinary gentlemen!

That demon was slain by Cui Xiao Xiao, so this honor should also be attributed to the master and disciple pair of the Talisman Sect.

But Xiao Xiao discovered that besides a bit of qi in the dantian from cultivation, the skill of this flattery was also quite profound.

Among the Three Great Sects, that smooth-talking elder from Ebony Peak was the most vivid in his storytelling.

He was seen tugging his long beard, with an air of transcendent elegance. He narrated in detail the hardships his sect’s disciples had endured over the past few years, setting up a network of eyes and ears in Luoyi City to investigate Ghost Alley. Hearing this, King Can kept nodding in approval and personally offered toasts.

Even Xiao Xiao, the person involved, had a hazy feeling that she was able to fortunately kill that ghost doctor all thanks to the meritorious efforts laid out by Ebony Peak.

So after a few rounds of wine, the prestige of Xiao Xiao, this little-known sect leader, was quickly overshadowed by the other three great sects.

That elder from Ebony Peak quite enjoyed socializing with the rich and powerful, getting along swimmingly in his conversation with King Can. He even gifted King Can two golden cores he had just recently refined.

The four great cultivation sects had resounding reputations, with numerous world-famous chivalrous individuals among their disciples. King Can was also happy to make friends with them, clinking cups and drinking together. For a time, the atmosphere was harmonious.

Xiao Xiao didn’t need to socialize with the powerful and wealthy, and was actually quite happy. She had spent the whole night in the ghost alley and was also really hungry.

The feast at the prince’s mansion was filled with delicacies and fine foods, things one couldn’t easily eat on normal days.

Just as she picked up her chopsticks and was about to pick up some food, Wei Jie beside her kicked her leg under the table again.

Xiao Xiao had learned her lesson at the Wei family. As soon as her disciple kicked, she immediately put down her chopsticks and turned to look at Wei Jie.

She suddenly remembered that earlier, when King Can offered toasts, the wine cups handed to her had all been blocked by Wei Jie.

However, Wei Jie’s excuse was quite appropriate, saying that his master’s arm had not yet healed and could not be tainted with alcohol. Could it be… he saw something wrong with the food and wine on this table?

Wei Jie grinned at her, as if praising his master for being a good student, but didn’t explain.

Just at this moment, King Can suddenly asked with concern, “Swordswoman Cui, why haven’t you touched your chopsticks? Could it be that the food and wine are not to your liking?”

Xiao Xiao hurriedly smiled and said, “How could the fine delicacies of the prince’s mansion not be delicious? It’s just that my disciple and I are currently in a state of abstaining from grains to refine our qi. We dare not partake of food and drink. I hope Your Highness will not take offense.”

She felt that since she had already clarified the fact that she was not a murderous demon, there was no meaning in staying here clinking cups. So she used the excuse that her arm was still somewhat injured and she was very tired, wanting to bid farewell early and return to rest.

King Can saw that there was indeed still blood on her sleeve and didn’t try to make her stay longer. However, the reward money couldn’t be left behind.

Therefore, after Xiao Xiao declined to rest at the prince’s mansion, King Can had his attendants carry chests filled with gold and silver to send off the two chivalrous individuals.

Xiao Xiao was used to freeloading off her disciples. Rarely earning gold and silver herself today, she wasn’t polite. After thanking King Can, she left the prince’s mansion with Wei Jie.

However, as they passed through the corridor towards the main gate of the prince’s mansion, Xiao Xiao caught a glimpse of someone looking towards them from a tall building not far away.

When she turned her head to look, in that tall building under the moonlight, a woman’s dress seemed to flutter as she trailed her long skirt into the building.

That woman’s silhouette was enchanting, the kind that made one unable to shift their gaze after a single glance. She seemed to be that veiled woman seen that day below the restaurant.

Xiao Xiao immediately shifted her gaze to Wei Jie. He was also looking at that tall building, his gaze cold and his lips pressed tightly together.

However, he quickly came back to his senses and lowered his head to say to Xiao Xiao, “Let’s go, your disciples are still waiting for us.”

Xiao Xiao nodded, not saying anything.

She suspected that woman was the songstress who had sung that soul-stirring song that day, and even more so suspected she was Wei Jie’s birth mother, the fox demoness Si Ling.

Last time, it was her heading to the restaurant to sing for King Can. Now she had appeared in the tall building of the prince’s mansion, clearly already King Can’s close female confidante.

However, if she was truly Si Ling, she definitely wouldn’t be submitting to King Can’s power and taking residence with him. She certainly had other intentions.

Thinking of the fox demoness’s deep hatred for the Four Great Sects, Xiao Xiao couldn’t help glancing back at the brightly lit hall.

In this lifetime, the Four Great Sects had come to Luoyi City early. Right now, the elders of the Three Great Sects were all drinking with the prince.

That fox demoness hated the Four Great Sects to the bone. She couldn’t be making a move now, right?

Wei Jie didn’t let her eat the food and drink the wine at the banquet. Could it be that Si Ling had tampered with all of it?

And Wei Jie’s deep gaze earlier… Did he recognize that woman was his mother?

Thinking of the various trajectories of the original course of events, if the fox demoness ultimately encountered the Four Great Sects and unfortunately lost her life, then wouldn’t Wei Jie fall into a blood feud and begin a slaughter of the Four Great Sects?

But if that was really the case, she should be happy. After all, only in this way could the derailed events return to their proper track, and she could successfully withdraw.

But Xiao Xiao found that her heart seemed to be pressed down by a stone, unable to feel happy no matter what.

On the way back, Xiao Xiao didn’t say anything the whole time. The man beside her also seemed to have something on his mind, only silently accompanying her.

When they reached the entrance of the inn, Xiao Xiao suddenly didn’t want to go in. She turned her head and asked Wei Jie, “Are you… hungry?”

Wei Jie nodded and said, “The shops aren’t open at this hour. I’ll go to the kitchen to find something to eat.”

After he came out carrying a small wine jar he had pilfered from the inn’s kitchen, as well as a bowl of braised beef, he took her to leap onto the inn’s roof and ate a late-night snack with Xiao Xiao under the moonlight.

Actually, without Xiao Xiao saying anything, Wei Jie knew she was hungry.

On the way back, Wei Jie had heard this grain-abstaining immortal master’s stomach growl a few times, almost matching a crowing rooster.

Xiao Xiao picked up the braised beef and took a big bite. Only after that did she ask, “Earlier at the prince’s mansion, why did you kick my leg? Could it be that there was poison in King Can’s food and wine?”

Who knew Wei Jie would raise his eyebrows, shake his head and say, “… I was just afraid your eating manner would be unrefined and scare the prince.”

Hearing this kind of absurdly outrageous reason, Xiao Xiao stared with wide eyes, her cheeks bulging with beef she couldn’t even swallow.

Wei Jie saw Xiao Xiao’s rarely flustered appearance and instantly let out a hearty laugh. Unfortunately, before he finished laughing, Xiao Xiao had already fiercely swallowed the beef in her mouth. Then, using his own hand, she took another big bite of the beef he was holding.

Scoundrel! Making her miss out on a meal of fine delicacies! Did he think that by teasing her like this, she wouldn’t eat?

Wei Jie was afraid she would choke and laughingly poured her a cup of wine.

Too many things had happened tonight. However, when facing that demonized ghost doctor, this little girl’s imposing manner as she said she would rather sever her own arm than let him treat her really made Wei Jie take a new look at her.

So after the joke, he casually said, “I always used to hear you say that the Talisman Sect’s tenet was to subdue demons and slay monsters. I didn’t expect you, this little sect leader, to actually have quite the bearing when push came to shove, indeed much stronger than those fame-seeking hypocrites of the Four Great Sects.”

Xiao Xiao downed a cup of wine and tilted her head, saying, “Then I’ll take that as you praising me.”

The smile on Wei Jie’s face gradually faded. Narrowing his purple eyes, he quietly looked at her and suddenly said in a low voice, “Then if one day… I’m overtaken by a demon, Master, will you also unhesitatingly raise your sword to slay the demon?”