Category: On How to Conquer System Fairies and Make Them Your Wives

Chapter 46: The Man in Black

It was midday. The mother and cub Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tigers were frolicking by the stream when they noticed a man and a woman approaching them.

“Yo, hello there.”

Chen Yin greeted them with a grin.

The cub rolled around playfully on the ground, while its mother let out a low growl, seemingly understanding that Chen Yin was about to leave.

“Yes, we’re leaving.”

He squatted down with a smile and stroked the cub’s belly. “Sorry about taking your demon core.”

“If I have the chance, I’ll bring you both a gift as compensation.”

The cub purred contentedly, its eyes closing in bliss as it enjoyed Chen Yin’s touch.

Its mother looked at Chen Yin with a hint of worry.

“Don’t worry,”

Chen Yin reassured her. “I know there have been more humans around lately.”

“But it’s fine, they’re all here because of us. Once we leave, your life will return to normal.”

The mother tiger seemed relieved and lay down, her eyes gazing in a specific direction.

Chen Yin knew she was showing him the way out.

“Farewell, then. May we meet again.”

Chen Yin bowed respectfully, then turned and left with Shen Shuanglian, following the direction the mother tiger had indicated.

As they walked, Shen Shuanglian couldn’t help but say worriedly, “You mean to say that many cultivators from the outside have already entered this place searching for us?”

“That’s right. It’s been several days since we fell. Even if we don’t leave now, they’ll eventually find us.”

“Then… what are you going to do?” Shen Shuanglian’s eyes were filled with concern. “What if the Mist Spirit Sect elders are still determined to punish you for protecting that demonic witch and take you back?”

“What else can I do?”

Chen Yin shrugged nonchalantly. “I’ll just use my all-powerful Master as a shield and scare them off.”

“After all, we’re all from the Mist Spirit Sect. Now that Miss Yin, the cause of this conflict, is no longer with us, they wouldn’t push things too far unless they’re idiots.”

“Besides, who wants to mess with Immortal Yu Ling?” He chuckled.

Shen Shuanglian nodded but still looked worried.

“I still feel… that the way the sect elders handled this matter is strange.”

“You feel it too?”

“Yes.”

Shen Shuanglian hesitated. “Logically speaking, even if Elder Mo Jie wanted to attack you, he should have thought carefully about the consequences, given the pressure from the Heavenly Net Sect and Immortal Yu Ling.”

“But he was clearly determined to kill Yin Mengwan at all costs.”

“Why was he so bold? Before he attacked, I saw him as if he was communicating with someone through voice transmission… who was he talking to?”

Chen Yin didn’t know either.

He had his suspicions but no evidence.

“For him to disregard the sect’s interests and act so recklessly, the person who gave him the courage… must be someone from the sect as well.”

Shen Shuanglian also fell into deep thought.

“Regardless, this is what I want to investigate next.”

Chen Yin looked at Shen Shuanglian seriously. “I can’t do this alone. I need your help. Are you willing?”

Shen Shuanglian nodded and asked softly, “What do you need me to do?”

“What I mentioned before. The information about Changli Palace within the Mist Spirit Sect.”

Chen Yin lowered his voice and added, “Be careful. This matter might be more complicated than we think. It’s best not to expose yourself.”

Shen Shuanglian didn’t answer. Instead, she blinked and asked:

“Are you worried about me?”

“Of course I’m worried about you.”

Chen Yin gently flicked her nose and said with a hint of reproach, “Remember, your safety is the most important. If there’s no opportunity, just forget about it.”

“Don’t put yourself in danger because of this.”

A soft light flickered in Shen Shuanglian’s eyes. “I understand.”

Only then did Chen Yin feel relieved and patted her head gently.

***

The surrounding scenery gradually became sparser as if they were entering a thin layer of fog.

Chen Yin knew they were approaching the edge of the Heavenly Path Perilous Domain. He gently took Shen Shuanglian’s hand.

“Be careful, don’t get lost,” he whispered.

Shen Shuanglian obediently let him hold her hand and followed him closely.

The fog was thicker than expected, visibility was extremely low, and there seemed to be a strange force within it, blocking cultivators’ senses.

Chen Yin and Shen Shuanglian walked through the fog like ordinary mortals.

“I didn’t expect such a thick fog near the edge of the Heavenly Path Perilous Domain.” Chen Yin frowned.

“As expected of the Perilous Domain. This eerie fog alone is enough to deter most cultivators from entering.”

Shen Shuanglian also marveled, “No wonder the Heavenly Path Perilous Domain has been a forbidden zone for so many years.”

“Let’s be careful. We don’t know what we might encounter in the fog.”

Chen Yin tightened his grip on her hand, and Shen Shuanglian took the opportunity to move closer to him.

The fog was not only thick but also vast. They walked in the same direction for a long time, but they still couldn’t see the end of it. Chen Yin began to wonder if they had taken a wrong turn.

“Am I walking in circles? Why haven’t we seen the exit yet?”

Shen Shuanglian said confidently, “No, this is the right direction. Just keep going.”

…A cultivator’s senses might be blocked, but the System’s weren’t.

Chen Yin glanced at her but didn’t ask any further questions. He continued walking, trusting her guidance.

Sure enough, after a while, the fog began to thin. Chen Yin knew they were nearing the exit and quickened his pace.

Soon, the fog had dissipated enough for them to see the path ahead. In the distance, Chen Yin saw the silhouette of a cultivator.

After confirming that the person was wearing black clothes, not the robes of the Mist Spirit Sect, Chen Yin called out boldly, “Hey! Fellow Daoist! Is this the exit of the Heavenly Path Perilous Domain?”

The figure didn’t answer.

Chen Yin frowned slightly and was about to approach when a sudden instinct made him pull Shen Shuanglian behind him protectively.

“Wait.”

As Shen Shuanglian looked at him in confusion, the fog around them began to disperse.

As the fog cleared, the ground came into view. And seeing what lay before them, Shen Shuanglian’s expression changed drastically.

Chen Yin stared at the figure in black, his eyes fixed and unmoving.

…The ground was littered with corpses.

The corpses were dressed in various attires, some from the Mist Spirit Sect, some from the Heavenly Net Sect, and some from the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion.

Countless bodies covered the ground, turning the entrance to the valley into a scene of carnage.

The man in black slowly turned around. He wore a theatrical mask, its features exaggerated and grotesque. His eyes stared at Chen Yin and Shen Shuanglian with a chilling intensity.

“This… this is…”

Shen Shuanglian’s eyes narrowed, and she instinctively reached for her sword, but Chen Yin stopped her with a hand on her arm.

“…Grand Clarity Realm. Don’t throw your life away.” He said coldly, his eyes fixed on the man in black.

Shen Shuanglian gasped, her eyes widening in shock as she looked at the man.

“Heh, good eye.”

The man in black chuckled, turning around and placing his hands behind his back. He stared at Chen Yin with a hint of arrogance. “You’re that disciple from the Mist Spirit Sect branch who protected the demonic witch at the Fairy Conference, aren’t you?”

“Who are you?”

Chen Yin said coldly, “Aren’t you afraid of retribution from the various sects after killing so many of their disciples?”

“Haha, those who fear death shouldn’t be in this line of work.”

The man in black laughed heartily, showing no fear. This made Chen Yin’s heart sink even further.

…He knew what the man meant.

This person was clearly an assassin sent by someone.

A Grand Clarity Realm assassin.

This time, even Chen Yin had to be cautious. He stared at the man in black, stalling for time with his questions. “Are you here to kill someone? Who?”

At the same time, he sent a voice transmission to Shen Shuanglian, “Run. I can’t guarantee your safety against a Grand Clarity Realm cultivator.”

But Shen Shuanglian didn’t move.

“You don’t need to know who I’m here to kill.”

The man in black stared at him with a playful smile. “But since you’re already here, neither of you are leaving.”

“I don’t mind killing two more people.”

As his words faded, the atmosphere became tense.

Chen Yin narrowed his eyes, his hand tightening around the hilt of his Eternal Light sword. He sent another urgent voice transmission, “Don’t be stubborn. I can’t fight freely with you by my side.”

Shen Shuanglian shook her head silently, her gaze equally serious. “Don’t push yourself either. A Grand Clarity Realm cultivator isn’t as easy to fool as Elder Mo Jie.”

“Even with your Dao Resonance, you might not be able to survive against a Grand Clarity Realm expert.”

“Then what should we do? Just wait here to die?”

“I have a last resort that can buy us some time. You need to run, as far away as possible.”

Chen Yin frowned. It was normal for Shen Shuanglian, as the chief disciple of the Mist Spirit Sect, to have some life-saving measures. But against a Grand Clarity Realm cultivator, ordinary tricks wouldn’t be enough. Even if she could stall him, it would come at a great cost.

But she was right. His First Sword, imbued with Dao Resonance, was deadly to cultivators below the Grand Clarity Realm. But against a true Grand Clarity Realm Immortal, it might not be as effective.

…It seemed he had no choice but to use his Second Sword.

Chen Yin had never fully unleashed his Second Sword before.

He wasn’t sure how powerful it was or if it would accidentally injure Shen Shuanglian.

But Shen Shuanglian seemed determined to die with him, refusing to retreat, which put him in a difficult position.

The man in black, however, didn’t give them much time to think.

“Heh heh, kid, dying with your little girlfriend. What a romantic way to go.”

He raised his hand, a chilling black light emanating from his withered claws.

“I hope you two will be just as lovey-dovey in hell.”

The moment the man in black raised his hand, Shen Shuanglian’s eyes hardened, and she called out softly in her heart, “System!”

Chen Yin also drew his sword, a blinding white light erupting from the Eternal Light.

But…

Before anything could happen, a lazy and childish voice rang out:

“Yo. Which old geezer is causing trouble here?”

“…And messing with my people?”

The man in black’s expression changed drastically. Shen Shuanglian looked around in confusion.

Only Chen Yin, upon hearing that voice, felt his heart settle back into his chest.

He knew everything would be alright.

Because he was all too familiar with that voice. He had been hearing it for years.

…It was his Master’s voice.

Chapter 45: Just a Little Longer

As dawn broke, Yu Xiang opened her eyes.

The cool morning dew lingered in the air, and Chen Yin was leaning against her head. They were nestled together in a heartwarming embrace.

Yu Xiang was reminded of their time on Mount Yu, how they would often find a tree to lean against and fall asleep, nestled against each other.

If it weren’t for the veil covering her face, Yu Xiang could almost believe she was back on Mount Yu.

Living that carefree life.

As the morning glow began to paint the sky, Yu Xiang sat up. Chen Yin’s gentle voice reached her ears:

“Good morning. Did you sleep well, Miss Yin?”

Yu Xiang purposely snorted. “You kept your word. No touching, and you didn’t lift my veil.”

“From the sound of it, you wanted me to lift your veil and see your true face?” Chen Yin asked with a playful smile.

Yu Xiang didn’t reply and simply turned her head.

“I’m leaving.”

“What are your plans, Miss?”

“You’re better off not knowing.” Yu Xiang glanced at him sideways.

Chen Yin could only shrug.

“Then I won’t pry.” He bowed slightly. “I wish you a safe journey.”

“…Don’t worry about me.”

Yu Xiang lowered her gaze. “You should be more concerned about yourself.”

“Don’t forget, you’re now known as the person who protected a demonic witch.”

Chen Yin maintained his carefree smile, seemingly unconcerned.

Yu Xiang seemed displeased by his nonchalant attitude and couldn’t help but frown. “Aren’t you worried at all? The outside world is filled with rumors, and the righteous cultivators searching for you will soon find this place.”

“You’re not like Shen Shuanglian. If they catch you, you won’t be able to defend yourself.”

Chen Yin waved his hand dismissively. “I’m not afraid.”

“My Master is Immortal Yu Ling. They wouldn’t dare do anything to me, even if they had ten times the courage.”

…Unless those old geezers weren’t afraid of Master causing trouble at their doorstep every day.

“…Hmph. Suit yourself.”

Yu Xiang turned to leave, her hair swaying gracefully. But she paused before disappearing into the forest, her beautiful eyes glancing back at him.

“A word of advice.”

“Don’t get too close to Shen Shuanglian,” she said softly.

Chen Yin chuckled. “Are you jealous, Miss Yin?”

“Don’t flatter yourself. Why would I be jealous of you?”

“Then why do you care about my relationship with Senior Sister?”

“Because…” Yu Xiang hesitated for a moment, then finally said, “She’s the chief disciple of the Mist Spirit Sect.”

“And the Mist Spirit Sect… is full of bad people.”

Chen Yin blinked.

After saying that, Yu Xiang didn’t linger any longer. With a few light leaps, she disappeared into the distance.

Chen Yin watched her leave, pondering the meaning of her last words.

…It was clear, from Xiang’er’s actions in his previous life, when she had destroyed the entire Mist Spirit Sect, and from Elder Mo Jie’s attitude earlier, that the Mist Spirit Sect was also a key part of his investigation.

But did Xiang’er suspect Senior Sister as well?

He quickly dismissed the thought.

If it was truly related to the destruction of Changli Palace years ago, then Senior Sister, like him, would have been just a child at the time. It was unlikely she knew anything.

But if one day, he had to stand against the Mist Spirit Sect for Xiang’er’s sake…

…How would he face Senior Sister?

Chen Yin sighed and murmured, “This is too difficult.” Then he turned and walked back towards the cave.

A while after Chen Yin left, Yu Xiang’s figure reappeared.

She gazed at his retreating figure, her eyes filled with longing.

“Senior Brother, do you know?” She murmured to herself.

“Last night… for a moment, I truly hoped…”

…That you would lift my veil.

That you would notice my disguise.

That you would hold my hand and help me take revenge on those who wronged me.

“System, am I… being too selfish?”

Dragging Senior Brother into my revenge, into this complicated mess.

“Selfish! You’re incredibly selfish!”

The System’s exasperated voice echoed in her mind. “I don’t know about your Senior Brother, but I’ve had the worst luck because of you!”

“Do you know how much I had to sacrifice to fix the deviation from the plot records caused by your reckless actions?”

“Let me tell you, if you continue to act on your own and disobey the System, don’t blame me if everyone ends up dead!”

Yu Xiang lowered her eyes, her lips trembling slightly after a long silence.

“…I understand.”

“Don’t worry. Once this is over, I won’t involve Senior Brother in this matter anymore.”

…Yu Xiang, you’re so foolish.

You had made up your mind to walk this thorny path of revenge alone.

Even if it meant never seeing your Senior Brother again, you were willing to leave him in a peaceful and happy world.

But you’re so weak. You made such a firm decision, yet the moment you saw him, it all crumbled. Hope bloomed in your heart again.

You hoped he would ruffle your hair with a smile, like he always did, and shield you from all harm.

…But it’s impossible.

Yu Xiang gently slapped her cheeks, her eyes hardening with determination.

This was something she had to do alone. No one could help her.

Not Master. Not Senior Brother.

Even if it meant eternal damnation and a lifetime of infamy…

…She wouldn’t hesitate.

***

By the time she returned to the cave, the sky had finally begun to brighten.

As Chen Yin entered the cave, carrying two plump fish, he saw Shen Shuanglian wrapped in his robe, sitting quietly against the cave wall, her knees hugged to her chest.

“Hmm? You’re up early today?”

“…I went to bed early yesterday. So I naturally woke up early.” Shen Shuanglian’s voice was weak and hoarse, laced with a hint of melancholy.

Chen Yin efficiently placed the fish aside, preparing to clean them. “This is our last meal here. After this, we should leave this place.”

“Let me show you my special skill. My grilled fish is famous on Mount Yu.”

He started a fire, skillfully skewered the fish, and placed them over the flames.

Staring at the sparks flying from the fire, Shen Shuanglian turned her head, her clear eyes fixed on Chen Yin’s profile, silent.

“What’s wrong? Is there something on my face?”

“No… I just wanted to look at you a little longer.”

Chen Yin chuckled as he grilled the fish. “It’s not like you won’t see me again. Why are you acting like this is our final farewell?”

“Don’t worry. I’ll come find you soon.”

Shen Shuanglian hugged her knees, resting her head on her arms, her eyes flickering.

“Really?”

“Of course, it’s true.”

“But I don’t believe you anymore. You’ve broken your promises too many times.”

Chen Yin sighed helplessly. “Then, set a punishment. If I break my promise, I’ll accept it. How about that?”

Shen Shuanglian thought for a moment and said softly, “I want you to marry me.”

Chen Yin’s hand froze as he grilled the fish. He turned to her in surprise.

“Are you… serious? Are you sure?”

Shen Shuanglian nodded earnestly.

“You’re the chief disciple of the Mist Spirit Sect, the most dazzling prodigy of the younger generation. And I’m just an unknown Cloud Ascending Realm cultivator.”

“It doesn’t matter.”

Shen Shuanglian shook her head. “I don’t care.”

Chen Yin continued grilling the fish in silence, lost in thought.

The air grew quiet, only the crackling of the fire breaking the silence.

Shen Shuanglian slowly looked away, a hint of disappointment in her eyes. “Do you… not want to?”

“Of course I do.”

Chen Yin stared at the cave entrance, his voice distant. “But I’m afraid that what I’m doing might take a long time.”

“And I… don’t want to make you wait too long.”

“It’s okay.”

Shen Shuanglian looked into his eyes intently. “I’m willing to wait.”

Chen Yin fell silent. “…It might be a very long time.”

“Do you know how long I’ve already waited for you?”

She said seriously, “From my previous life to now, I’ve waited for you for over twenty years.”

“But last time, all I got was a sudden goodbye and a cold tombstone.”

Chen Yin lowered his head and whispered, “…I’m sorry.”

“I’m not afraid of waiting.”

She seemed to be feeling cold and hugged her knees tighter, her voice soft.

“I’m afraid of waiting at the airport for a ship.”

Her voice was soft and timid, like a child who couldn’t afford the toy they desired.

Chen Yin remained silent for a long time, then turned and gently wrapped his arms around her neck, kissing her forehead.

“…Don’t worry.”

“This time, even if you’re waiting at the airport for a ship…”

“I’ll bring the ship to you.”

“I swear.” His eyes were bright and gentle as he looked at her.

Shen Shuanglian lowered her head and hummed softly.

“The fish is almost ready. Let’s eat.”

“Okay…”

“What’s wrong? Don’t you want to eat?”

“It’s hot. Can we wait a little longer?” Shen Shuanglian asked timidly.

Chen Yin knew she wanted to eat slowly, to prolong their time together.

He didn’t expose her and simply nodded.

“Okay. And if you really don’t want to leave, we can stay another day—”

“No.” Shen Shuanglian shook her head resolutely.

“If we stay any longer… I’m afraid I won’t want to leave.”

Chen Yin didn’t say anything more and just quietly accompanied her as she ate the grilled fish.

Compared to the fish he usually grilled on Mount Yu, this one lacked many seasonings and wasn’t as flavorful.

But Shen Shuanglian ate with relish, chewing each bite carefully, savoring every piece of meat.

As if she could delay the dawn by eating slowly.

As if she could postpone their parting.

Chapter 44: Just Leaning for a Bit, Really

Chen Yin’s voice held a hint of melancholy.

But hearing those words, Yu Xiang felt a pang in her heart.

She wanted to tell him that his Junior Sister never blamed him, never thought he was a bad person.

He was always her most important family, her most beloved Senior Brother.

…But now, she didn’t know what identity she could use to say those words to him.

She hesitated several times, then finally withdrew her hand, hugging her knees and curling up on the rock.

“…I envy your Junior Sister.”

“Why?”

“Even if her Senior Brother is as bad as you say, at least he loves her.”

“Well, she’s my Junior Sister.” Chen Yin shrugged. “Who else would I dote on if not her?”

“But many people aren’t as lucky as her.”

Yu Xiang murmured softly, “There are countless people in this world who have nothing.”

“No family, no friends, their existence erased. Sometimes, even they themselves forget that they exist.”

“But even then, they don’t even have the right to die. They live every day in a hellish nightmare, for years and years.”

“Are those people pitiful?”

Chen Yin didn’t know how to answer. But Yu Xiang continued, as if talking to herself:

“Of course they are. But what can they do?”

“The idyllic world of loving masters and supportive fellow disciples, no matter how beautiful and dreamlike, doesn’t belong to them.”

“Sooner or later, they still have to return to that dark and hopeless swamp. Find a place where no one can find them and slowly rot away.”

The evening breeze grew colder, and Yu Xiang shivered, wrapping her arms around herself.

Chen Yin listened to her words with his head lowered.

He engraved every word in his heart.

So this was how Xiang’er had been living all these years?

Changli Palace. The demonic path. The Mist Spirit Sect.

Chen Yin suddenly felt an urge to leave immediately, to confront these three parties and find out what had happened.

To find out who had caused Xiang’er so much pain.

But a soft voice interrupted his thoughts:

“Can I… lean on you for a bit?”

Chen Yin turned his head. Yu Xiang’s cheeks were flushed, her voice slightly awkward.

“Don’t you mind this philandering scoundrel anymore?”

“As long as you don’t move, I’ll just pretend I’m leaning on a warm rock.”

“What if I can’t help but move?”

“Then I’ll cut off your “microphone”.”

She said with a playful glare.

Chen Yin shrank back, intimidated, and remained perfectly still.

Yu Xiang hesitated for a moment, then slowly moved closer to Chen Yin, resting her head on his shoulder.

The wind softened, and the air grew quiet.

Chen Yin’s shoulder seemed to have a magical quality. The moment Yu Xiang leaned against him, an overwhelming wave of exhaustion washed over her.

She knew she couldn’t fall asleep in front of Chen Yin, but she was reluctant to leave his warm and comforting embrace.

“…Mmm.” She let out a soft sound, like a sleepy child refusing to get out of bed.

Chen Yin coughed lightly and asked tentatively, “If you’re uncomfortable leaning like this, I wouldn’t mind holding you while you sleep—”

Clang! A slender sword plunged into the ground, inches away from Chen Yin’s crotch.

Yu Xiang’s voice was laced with resentment and annoyance. “Can you stop having those dirty thoughts?”

“…I’m sorry.”

Yu Xiang shifted into a more comfortable position and continued leaning against him. She suddenly blurted out:

“Don’t get the wrong idea. I’m just a little tired.”

“I’m really… just leaning for a bit, okay?” she whispered.

Chen Yin didn’t expose her lie and nodded softly.

“It’s okay. Lean on me as long as you need.”

Silence returned. Yu Xiang closed her eyes and rested for a long time before suddenly asking:

“What… are your plans?”

“Once Senior Sister Shen Shuanglian recovers from her injuries, we’ll naturally leave this place as soon as possible.”

Chen Yin said half-jokingly, “But I imagine the outside world is in an uproar right now. I might have become a villain in the eyes of the public, accused of colluding with the demonic path.”

“Hopefully, we won’t be caught when we get out. Haha.”

Yu Xiang remained silent for a long time, then whispered, “I’m sorry.”

“It’s all my fault…”

“You don’t have to blame yourself. I told you I did it willingly.”

Chen Yin looked up and said slowly, “You know, you’re very similar to my Junior Sister.”

Yu Xiang’s body trembled slightly.

“My Junior Sister, she’s also a bit shy and introverted. On the surface, she’s always smiling, carefree and cheerful. But she always keeps things bottled up inside, refusing to tell anyone.”

“That’s why she’s always so worrying.” Chen Yin shook his head helplessly.

Yu Xiang was silent for a long time before finally saying:

“Maybe… your Junior Sister has her reasons.”

“Then she’s just being silly.”

Chen Yin said seriously, “Her Master is one of the most powerful Grand Clarity Realm Immortals in the cultivation world, Immortal Yu Ling. And her Senior Brother is the most handsome man in the cultivation world, me.”

“With two such powerful backers, what problem can’t be solved? Why keep it all bottled up inside?”

Yu Xiang bit her lip gently, then said weakly, “Maybe things aren’t as simple as you think.”

“Then there’s nothing we can do.”

Chen Yin sighed helplessly. “As her Senior Brother, I can only wait patiently for the day she’s willing to tell me.”

…As if.

I’ll find the answers myself.

Before you, you silly girl, do something stupid.

Yu Xiang’s gaze drifted, fixated on the flowing water.

The moonlight was clear and bright, the stream flowed gently, and the Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tiger by the bank licked its paws leisurely.

As the evening breeze brushed past, Yu Xiang felt a wave of irresistible drowsiness, her eyelids growing heavy.

Seeing her sleepy, cat-like expression, Chen Yin said, “If you’re really tired, just sleep for a while.”

“Mmm… I can’t.”

“Why? Afraid I’ll do something inappropriate?”

“No… I just can’t sleep.”

“No matter what important things you have to do, you need to sleep to regain your strength.”

Yu Xiang thought for a moment, then nodded softly. “Okay, but you’re not allowed to take off my veil.”

“Don’t worry.”

“No touching.”

“No problem.”

“And you’re not allowed to leave secretly.”

Chen Yin froze, then noticed the playful tone in Yu Xiang’s voice. “Don’t overthink it, I just don’t want to wake up freezing in the middle of the night.”

“Just let me sleep peacefully tonight. Okay?”

Chen Yin was silent for a moment, a gentle look flashing in his eyes.

“…I promise.”

The moonlight swayed in the breeze, and soft breathing sounds filled the air.

Chapter 43: Besides Healing, We Didn’t Do Anything Else

Under the moonlight, Chen Yin stroked the back of the Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tiger, calming it down, while his eyes were fixed on the veiled Yu Xiang, a playful smile on his lips.

“We meet again, Miss Yin.”

“Long time no see. How have you been?”

Yu Xiang’s body trembled slightly. No one could see her expression beneath the veil.

After a long silence, her voice, forcedly calm and barely suppressing a tremor, finally came:

“…It’s you? You’re not dead?”

“Hey, hey, that’s a bit harsh, don’t you think?” Chen Yin said with an innocent expression. “I practically fell off a cliff because of you. Do you have to be so cold-hearted?”

“It’s because—”

Yu Xiang almost lost control of her emotions and raised her voice. She quickly caught herself and continued in a cold tone:

“I didn’t ask you to save me. I didn’t know you were such a foolish person, doing something so reckless for a complete stranger.”

Although she tried to hide it, Chen Yin could still hear the hint of grievance in her voice.

“Ahem… You can’t say that.”

He shook his head and said eloquently, “As a cultivator, one must act according to one’s conscience. How could anyone stand by and watch a group of people bully a young woman?”

Yu Xiang said urgently, “You don’t even know me, how do you know I’m not a bad person?”

“What if… I really am the demonic witch they say I am?”

As soon as she said those words, Yu Xiang regretted them.

But Chen Yin simply stroked his chin thoughtfully. After a moment, he turned to her and asked, “Well, are you, Miss Yin?”

Yu Xiang bit her lip and whispered, “Why should I tell you?”

“You have to tell me so I know whether I saved a good person or a bad person.”

“Are all demonic cultivators necessarily bad people?”

Faced with Yu Xiang’s question, Chen Yin thought for a moment and said, “I don’t know if all demonic cultivators are bad people. And I don’t care.”

“I only want to know if the person I saved is a bad person.”

He suddenly spread his arms open, exposing his chest to Yu Xiang, and said loudly, “If you truly are a bad person, Miss, feel free to kill me. Consider it silencing a witness.”

Yu Xiang’s voice became urgent. “Do you really think I wouldn’t dare, with you exposing yourself like that to a stranger?”

She pointed her slender sword directly at Chen Yin.

But Chen Yin remained motionless, simply looking at her with a relaxed smile.

“If you dare, Miss… what are you waiting for?”

The aura around her sword intensified.

But in the end, like a flickering candle flame, it slowly extinguished, her sword falling limply to the ground.

After a long while, Chen Yin heard a voice filled with frustration and gritted teeth:

“You… how can someone like you even exist?”

“Thank you for the compliment, Miss.” Chen Yin smiled brightly.

“Since you’re already here, why don’t we chat for a bit before you leave?”

Yu Xiang hesitated, glancing at the docile Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tiger beside Chen Yin, then slowly nodded.

***

They sat side by side on a large rock by the stream, bathed in the silvery moonlight. The tiger lay beside the stream, licking its furry paws as it bathed in the water.

Although she was wearing a veil and a dark, elegant dress, completely unlike the lively and adorable Xiang’er, Yu Xiang felt nervous sitting beside Chen Yin, afraid of accidentally revealing her identity.

To distract herself and ease her anxiety, she started the conversation:

“How… how did you survive falling from such a high cliff?”

“Who knows? Maybe I’m just lucky.” Chen Yin lay back on the rock casually.

“And why did you speak up for me back then? Was it really just because you couldn’t stand injustice?”

“Maybe.” He shrugged. “Or maybe I was just bored and looking for an excuse to stir up trouble.”

…Picking a fight with a bunch of Boundless Realm and Supreme Clarity Realm experts because he was bored? Yu Xiang was speechless. She could only mutter angrily, “How thick-skinned can you be, a mere Cloud Ascending Realm cultivator, to say such things?”

“Ah, that’s where you’re mistaken, Miss Yin.”

Chen Yin suddenly sat up and said seriously, “I may not have many talents, but I have exceptionally thick skin.”

“Not even Boundless Realm or Supreme Clarity Realm experts, even Grand Clarity Realm Immortals, can pierce my skin!”

That was actually true.

Just look at his Master, that old woman. She tried to break him down time and time again, but had she ever succeeded in piercing his thick skin?

Seeing Chen Yin’s smug expression, Yu Xiang felt even more exasperated. “A-aren’t you afraid of getting into serious trouble one day?”

“Have you ever considered how worried the people around you would be if something happened to you?”

Chen Yin’s smile faded, and he asked in a calm voice:

“What about… you, Miss Yin?”

“When those elders were questioning you, weren’t you afraid of getting hurt and making the people close to you worry?”

“I…”

Yu Xiang was speechless.

Chen Yin’s gaze was unusually calm, unwavering. But Yu Xiang suddenly felt intimidated by his gaze and couldn’t help but look away.

“I… don’t have anyone close to me.”

“How is that possible? What about your parents, your fellow disciples from your sect?”

Yu Xiang’s eyes dimmed, and her voice lowered. “…They’re all gone.”

“Gone for over a decade.”

Chen Yin narrowed his eyes slightly.

“From what I heard, your sect is called… Changli Palace?”

Yu Xiang turned to him and asked, “Do you know this sect?”

“Uh, forgive my ignorance.”

“Heh. It’s only natural.” She lowered her eyes, a self-deprecating smile on her lips. “It’s normal that you wouldn’t know.”

“Who in the cultivation world still remembers that sect?”

Chen Yin hesitated, about to ask, “Then would you be willing to tell me more—”

“Don’t ask.”

Yu Xiang’s voice suddenly turned cold. She looked at Chen Yin with a cold glare. “Knowing about it won’t do you any good.”

Chen Yin looked away, his head lowered in thought, and fell silent.

The evening breeze rustled the unknown flowers by the stream, creating gentle ripples on the water’s surface.

Yu Xiang gazed at the flowing water, her heart heavy with sadness.

…How did it come to this?

She had finally met her Senior Brother again, confirmed that he was safe, and she didn’t want to ruin the atmosphere.

But she had to force herself to end this conversation.

She couldn’t let Senior Brother get involved in this matter.

Just as Yu Xiang was struggling with her emotions, she heard Chen Yin’s gentle voice:

“Let’s not talk about that anymore. Do you have someone you like, Miss Yin?”

Yu Xiang froze, then turned her head away, a hint of displeasure in her voice. “Why?”

“If I said no, would you start flirting with me?”

“Ahem, is that how you see me, Miss?”

“Pretty much.” Yu Xiang pouted. “You look like a fickle playboy.”

Chen Yin immediately protested, “You can’t just accuse me like that! There’s no man more devoted than me in this world!”

“You?” Yu Xiang scoffed.

“Not to mention that woman in red who was buying you clothes at the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion.”

“What about Shen Shuanglian, the fairy who jumped off the cliff with you?”

Chen Yin chuckled nervously.

“Uh, well, she… she was injured protecting me, and she’s still recovering.”

Yu Xiang instantly turned her head away, a murderous glint in her eyes behind the veil.

“…Recovering?”

“So you’ve been with her all this time?”

Chen Yin felt a cold sweat break out on his back. He stammered, trying to explain:

“Ahem, well, yes, but we didn’t do anything other than heal her injuries.”

Those words… weren’t exactly a lie, right?

But Yu Xiang, as usual, felt a pang of jealousy. She snorted softly and turned her head away.

“No need to explain yourself to me. We’re not close, and I don’t care who you mess around with.”

Seeing Xiang’er’s temper flare up again, Chen Yin couldn’t directly coax her this time. He could only force a smile and say, “Miss Yin, let me explain…”

“There’s no need.”

After a long silence, he heard Yu Xiang whisper, “…Thank her for me.”

Thank her for risking her life to save Senior Brother.

Otherwise, with Senior Brother’s newly acquired Cloud Ascending Realm cultivation and his incomplete mastery of the “Forgotten Everlasting Heart Sutra,” he might have been in real danger.

Seeing Chen Yin’s curious gaze, Yu Xiang simply turned her head away. “It’s nothing.”

“Didn’t you say you have a Junior Sister waiting for you at home?”

“Aren’t you afraid your Junior Sister will be jealous, seeing you so close with this Fairy Shen?”

Chen Yin choked on his words and scratched his nose. “My Junior Sister…”

“She’s silly and innocent. She wouldn’t mind.”

“You—” Yu Xiang’s eyebrows shot up in anger, but she forcefully suppressed her outburst, letting out a soft “hmph” instead.

“Hmph. She’s unlucky to have such a philandering Senior Brother.”

To her surprise, Chen Yin simply shrugged nonchalantly.

“Yeah.”

“My Junior Sister truly has the worst luck. She ended up with a good-for-nothing Senior Brother like me, who’s fickle, lecherous, lazy, and useless.”

“If I were strong and capable, if I were truly devoted and worthy of her trust…”

“Maybe… she wouldn’t have to live such a difficult life.” Chen Yin’s voice softened unconsciously.

Yu Xiang stared at him, stunned. After a long while, she snapped out of her daze and quickly averted her gaze, trying to hide her reddened eyes.

“Actually… you’re not as bad as you say. Don’t be so hard on yourself.”

“Many people would be lucky to have a Senior Brother like you.”

“Really?”

Chen Yin burst into laughter. “So I’m not that bad after all?”

“If only my Junior Sister thought the same…”

“…I would be very happy.”

Chapter 42: Family

Shen Shuanglian couldn’t help but ask, “I never understood… why did you move away back then?”

“I heard you later had a falling out with your family and lived alone. What happened?”

Chen Yin remained silent, his gaze drifting towards the ceiling.

“If I tell you the whole story, it’ll be quite boring. You probably wouldn’t even want to hear it. It’s the kind of drama you see on those emotional talk shows all the time.”

Chen Yin said softly, “My parents were constantly fighting and wanted a divorce. There was domestic violence, and even the police couldn’t stop them. The divorce proceedings dragged on for years. They were able to endure it, but I couldn’t.”

“So, I dropped out of college and ran away to a different city. I cut off all contact with my family and tried to make a living with my meager writing skills, scribbling down melancholic words.”

“Then I realized I couldn’t even support myself. I thought about it and figured there wasn’t much point in living. Even if I found another job to make ends meet, life seemed meaningless.”

“Since I was all alone anyway, I thought I might as well end it all.” He shrugged casually, as if he wasn’t talking about his own life.

Shen Shuanglian was stunned.

She couldn’t fully comprehend his feelings, but seeing him smile while recounting such a painful past made her heart ache.

“But like I said, that’s all in the past.”

He put his hands behind his head, crossed his legs, and said leisurely, “Now, at least I have a home to return to. I’m happy on Mount Yu.”

“There’s nothing to miss about the past. It’s best to just forget it.”

Shen Shuanglian bit her lip gently and said softly, “Then your Master and Junior Sister must be very important family to you, right?”

Chen Yin’s usual playful demeanor faded, and he sighed softly after a long silence.

“…Yes.”

“I consider them my most important family now.”

“So, this wretched life of mine finally has some value.”

He didn’t need to worry about Master, that old loli granny.

But Xiang’er…

He had to see her happy and safe with his own eyes before he could be at peace.

This time, he wouldn’t let that nightmarish ending repeat itself.

“Speaking of which, I have something to ask you.”

Chen Yin suddenly turned to her with a serious expression. “Have you ever heard of Changli Palace?”

Changli Palace? Shen Shuanglian froze for a moment, then shook her head.

…So she hasn’t heard of it either. Chen Yin closed his eyes slowly.

“What’s wrong? Is there something wrong with this Changli Palace?”

“No… If you return to the sect safely, Senior Sister, could you please help me investigate if there are any records related to Changli Palace at the main branch?”

Shen Shuanglian was about to nod, then she frowned, her eyes filled with worry. “Aren’t you coming with me?”

“I still have things to do.”

Chen Yin patted her head reassuringly. “Take care of yourself first.”

Shen Shuanglian lowered her head, biting her lip and sulking silently.

Chen Yin said softly, “Don’t worry. I won’t be long.”

“I’ll come find you when everything is over.”

She looked up at him with teary eyes and nodded silently.

“Then we need to focus on recovering from our injuries.”

Chen Yin stretched and looked at Shen Shuanglian with a mischievous smile.

Shen Shuanglian sighed, a rare hint of feminine resentment in her eyes.

“We’re supposed to be healing. Get your mind out of the gutter.”

“No problem, no problem.”

“Don’t try anything funny like yesterday.”

“Okay, okay.”

“…Be gentle.”

“…I promise.”

***

As evening approached…

Shen Shuanglian was fast asleep in the cave, exhausted. Chen Yin carefully draped his robe over her and left the cave.

Under the dim moonlight, he stretched and swiftly flew towards the edge of the Heavenly Path Perilous Domain.

…Shen Shuanglian’s injuries had almost completely healed.

Although he was reluctant to leave this comfortable haven, he couldn’t afford to waste any more time.

He couldn’t receive any news from the outside world in the Perilous Domain, and he couldn’t be sure of Xiang’er’s safety. He needed to find her as soon as possible to ease his worries.

So, he decided to scout the path ahead tonight. If there were no dangers, he could take Shen Shuanglian out of this place tomorrow.

His journey was smoother than expected.

He didn’t encounter any dangerous creatures, and since this area was still the territory of the Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tigers, he was able to travel unimpeded.

But after traveling for several miles, Chen Yin suddenly stopped.

He sensed several agitated auras not far away.

It seemed like a battle was taking place.

He quickly concealed himself and rushed towards the commotion.

***

Under the moonlight, the mother Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tiger was perched on a rock, its eyes fixed menacingly on the figure before it, growling threateningly.

Facing it, Yu Xiang stood with her sword drawn, her beautiful eyes narrowed beneath the black veil.

“…As expected of the Heavenly Path Perilous Domain. I haven’t even traveled that far, and I’ve already encountered a beast of this level.”

“You still have the mood to complain?” The System’s voice echoed in her mind. “That’s a spirit beast comparable to a Supreme Clarity Realm expert! Can you even handle it in your current state?”

“Let me tell you, don’t expect me to help you. It’s because you insisted on going your own way and deviating from the plot that I’m also being punished along with you.”

The System’s voice even carried a hint of grievance.

Yu Xiang ignored it and said coldly, “Stop pretending. I don’t believe you don’t have any life-saving tricks up your sleeve.”

“Hurry up and use them. If I die, you’ll die too.”

“Damn it…” The System almost cursed.

Why did it have to be a System? It didn’t get any benefits, and it had to work like a slave, treating its host like a queen.

Was there any justice in this world?!

But in the end, the System gritted its teeth and said in a heartbroken voice:

“This is the last time! We might as well die together!”

A faint purple aura enveloped Yu Xiang’s sword, and her grip suddenly felt heavier.

…It was as if this sword strike could split heaven and earth.

The tiger seemed to sense the danger, a chilling aura emanating from the sword. It roared and lunged at Xiang’er without hesitation, its claws outstretched.

Yu Xiang’s expression remained calm as she thrust her sword towards the tiger.

But just before her sword connected, a sudden cough broke the tense atmosphere.

“Ahem.”

“I say, let’s not be so hasty. We can talk this out.”

Yu Xiang’s eyes widened in shock. Under the moonlight, a man stood beside the tiger, his face gentle, a soft smile on his lips as he stroked the tiger’s mane. He turned to her and chuckled softly:

“We meet again, Miss Yin.”

Chapter 41: The Only Home

The morning after the downpour.

Every morning in the Heavenly Path Perilous Domain began with a thick fog. It seemed to linger throughout the year, obscuring the path ahead after only a few steps.

At the foot of Ten Thousand Cloud Mountain, near the edge of the Perilous Domain, several groups of cultivators were conducting a thorough search. They wore various attire, some in the robes of the Mist Spirit Sect, some from the Heavenly Net Sect, and others from the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion.

Numerous cultivators braved the thick fog, slowly combing through the vast forest.

“Hey, brother, you guys from the Heavenly Net Sect are also looking for someone?”

“Of course. It’s a direct order from our Senior Sister. Who would dare disobey? You have no idea, when our Senior Sister is determined, even the Sect Master and his wife can’t stop her.”

“Sigh, you guys lost your Senior Sister’s lover, but we literally lost our Senior Sister herself. I just don’t understand, what kind of charm does that guy have that made both Senior Sisters so devoted to him?”

“I heard he’s quite handsome. Could he be some kind of male consort being fought over by the two fairies?”

“Now that you mention it… that explains why the two fairies always seem to be at odds.”

“But even so, this is the Heavenly Path Perilous Domain! Even Grand Clarity Realm experts would struggle to survive here. How could those two possibly survive after falling in?”

“And yet, here we are, risking our lives to search for them in this dangerous place…”

As the sect disciples whispered among themselves, a shadowy figure in black was hiding among the trees, silently listening to their conversation.

Once the searching disciples moved on, the figure swiftly disappeared into the depths of the Heavenly Path Perilous Domain.

Beneath the veil, Yu Xiang’s beautiful face was pale with worry and exhaustion.

…Senior Brother.

Please be safe.

***

Five days after falling off the cliff.

Having adapted to a primitive life in the cave, Chen Yin began to relax.

Thanks to his tireless efforts every night, the chaotic spiritual energy lingering in Shen Shuanglian’s meridians was gradually absorbed and transformed into nourishment, repairing her damaged pathways.

Shen Shuanglian’s complexion also improved day by day. Compared to before their fall, she seemed less cold and aloof, her face glowing with a healthy flush.

Chen Yin’s days were now filled with humming tunes as he went out to gather food, leaving no edible plant or animal behind, bringing everything back to the cave to nourish Shen Shuanglian.

The pair of Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tigers, mother and cub, seemed to have lost much of their hostility towards him after he emerged from the formation. They even exchanged friendly greetings whenever they encountered each other in the ravine.

The intelligence of spirit beasts was related to their cultivation level. Spirit beasts like the Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tiger were naturally intelligent. As they became more familiar with each other, Chen Yin learned a few things about the Heavenly Path Perilous Domain.

Firstly, it was probably far larger than he had imagined.

The main branch of the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion was built on a mountain near the edge of the Perilous Domain. So the place where he and Shen Shuanglian had fallen wasn’t that deep within the domain.

The mother and cub tigers had never seen the true heart of the Heavenly Path Perilous Domain. They only growled fearfully when he asked, as if something terrifying resided there.

Normally, Chen Yin would have been curious about the domain’s center. But with Shen Shuanglian, a delicate flower, by his side, he wasn’t willing to take the risk.

His days were now filled with catching pheasants, fishing, and petting the tiger cub, a leisurely and carefree existence.

As the sun rose high in the sky, Chen Yin, as usual, returned to the cave, humming a tune, with a few freshly caught pheasants in hand.

“Shuangshuang~ We have chicken soup again today~”

But there was no response from inside the cave.

Chen Yin narrowed his eyes, put down the pheasants, and scanned the cave.

…There were no signs of a struggle. Senior Sister must be safe.

He just didn’t know why she would leave the cave alone in her injured state.

Chen Yin searched around the cave. After covering most of the ravine, he finally heard sounds coming from the pool beneath the waterfall.

He parted the bushes and peered down at the pool.

…As expected.

Shen Shuanglian was bathing in the clear water, her smooth back glistening with droplets like a polished jade. Her hair was gathered in a loose bun, and her slender fingers traced her delicate neck as she scooped up a handful of water and poured it over her head.

The water cascaded over her pure and ethereal beauty, her lips slightly parted, her eyelashes adorned with tiny droplets.

She seemed to blend seamlessly with the water, her moonlight-like beauty even more captivating against the backdrop of the pool.

“It’s been days, and she still smells so good.”

Chen Yin decided to stay and enjoy the view, casually chewing on a blade of grass as he admired the beautiful sight before him.

Shen Shuanglian’s hand paused mid-air as she scooped water. After a moment, she asked softly:

“Enjoying the view?”

“Of course, it’s a beautiful sight.”

Chen Yin gave her a thumbs-up.

“…I wasn’t asking for your approval.”

Shen Shuanglian sighed softly. With a wave of her hand, water enveloped her body, and her clothes flew towards her from the shore. In a blink of an eye, before Chen Yin could see anything, she was already dressed and standing on the bank.

Her eyes, as clear as the freshly washed water, stared at Chen Yin intently.

Chen Yin scratched his nose awkwardly. “Uh… It’s not a big deal. I just saw you taking a bath.”

“It’s not like we haven’t seen everything there is to see. Why be so shy—”

Before he could finish, Shen Shuanglian kicked him into the pool.

Chen Yin flailed around in the water before resurfacing, sputtering indignantly, “Hey! That was unnecessary!”

“You deserved it.” Shen Shuanglian’s tone remained unchanged, but a hint of amusement flickered in her eyes.

“We shared a night of passion, show some mercy! You’re practically trying to kill your husband!”

“If you can drown in this shallow pool, then you deserve to stay there.”

“Hey, what if I really can’t swim?”

“I didn’t tell you to go swimming.” She frowned slightly. “Hurry up and wash yourself. You stink.”

“…”

Chen Yin sniffed himself, puzzled. Did he really stink?

But you could have at least let me take my clothes off before kicking me in!

He coughed lightly and said seriously, “Since I’m already here, I noticed that you seemed to be in a hurry earlier. You probably didn’t finish washing up before rushing out.”

“How about we take our time and enjoy a nice bath together? I can even scrub your back for you—”

Splash! The water in front of him exploded, showering him with droplets.

Shen Shuanglian expertly hid the blush on her cheeks and said softly, “Wash yourself properly. If you still stink, you’re not allowed in my bed tonight.”

Without another word, Chen Yin plunged into the water.

Shen Shuanglian sat on a rock by the shore, her gaze lost in the shimmering water.

After a while, Chen Yin emerged from the pool, drying himself with a flick of his wrist. He turned to Shen Shuanglian, who was still lost in thought.

“What are you thinking about? You seem so deep in thought.”

“…Nothing.”

Shen Shuanglian concealed the sadness in her eyes and stood up, saying softly, “Let’s go back.”

“After today, we should start thinking about how to get out of here.”

Chen Yin’s face fell.

“Ah, happiness is always so fleeting.”

Shen Shuanglian didn’t answer, just bit her lip.

Back in the cave, Chen Yin prepared the pheasant and made chicken soup, enjoying a large bowl himself. Shen Shuanglian, however, seemed preoccupied, picking at her food absentmindedly.

Chen Yin wiped his mouth and asked, “What’s wrong?”

“…I’m thinking about how to explain your situation to the sect elders after we get out.”

Chen Yin fell silent for a moment, then shrugged nonchalantly. “What’s there to explain?”

“I’ll just say that I’m a sucker for beautiful women and couldn’t stand seeing someone bully a pretty girl, so I had to save that so-called demonic witch.”

“What can they do to me? Punish me? I’ll just hide behind Master’s skirt, let’s see who dares to touch me.”

Shen Shuanglian hesitated for a moment and asked tentatively, “What about your… Junior Sister…?”

“Hmm? What about her?”

“…”

Shen Shuanglian opened her mouth but didn’t say what she wanted to say. Instead, she asked, “What… kind of person is she?”

Chen Yin tilted his head and thought for a moment, then said seriously:

“She’s a child who’s even more troublesome than you and never seems to grow up.”

Shen Shuanglian pouted unhappily. “How am I troublesome?”

“When your parents first passed away, didn’t you want to die?”

Under Chen Yin’s calm gaze, Shen Shuanglian slowly lowered her head and shrank back, remaining silent.

“I heard about you from our neighbors. Although we hadn’t seen each other for many years, knowing your temper as a child, I was worried you might do something foolish.”

Chen Yin looked up. “I don’t know if the money I sent you was helpful, but it was all the manuscript fees I had earned in those few months.”

“I could only ask the neighbors to keep an eye on you, you silly girl.”

Shen Shuanglian pursed her lips, her eyes darting towards Chen Yin’s profile as she mumbled, “I’m… not that fragile.”

“That’s good to hear.”

Chen Yin fell silent and lay down on the ground.

After hesitating for a moment, Shen Shuanglian asked softly, “You told me to be strong, but why did you choose to end everything yourself?”

Chen Yin remained silent for a long time before chuckling wryly. “Because you were still young. And I was already an adult.”

“The adult world is fragile. Sometimes, we break down without warning. There’s nothing we can do about it.”

Shen Shuanglian puffed out her chest and retorted, “In this life, we’re the same age.”

“It’s all the same.”

Chen Yin said with a soft smile, his gaze fixed on the ceiling.

A small hand reached out and held his. Shen Shuanglian whispered, “Were you… unhappy when you first came to this world?”

“More than just unhappy.”

Chen Yin didn’t want to go into details and simply brushed it off. “But fortunately, I met Master and my Junior Sister Xiang’er.”

“And finally… I had a home.”

Both in this life and his previous life…

…The only home he had ever known.

Chapter 40: You Said the Same Thing Yesterday

The sound of rain filled the cave.

In the dim light, Shen Shuanglian stared at him, her eyes wide with hurt.

“Why? I just want to see you alive and well. Is that too much to ask?”

“Must you… break your promises again and again?”

Chen Yin remained silent for a long time. Then, he gently placed his hand on her head and said softly,

“Don’t ask. Be good.”

Shen Shuanglian felt a pang of disappointment.

But as his hand rested on her head, she was transported back to that summer day in the flowerbed.

His hand was warm and large, comforting her like a small kitten. She nestled closer, her glistening eyes trembling slightly. After a moment, she bit her lip gently.

“If you don’t want to talk… then forget it. Let the past be the past.”

She looked up at him, her gaze intense. “But from now on, you’re not allowed to leave me behind.”

“What if I do leave you behind again?” Chen Yin couldn’t help but tease her.

Shen Shuanglian thought for a moment. She remembered Chen Yin’s words, “A girl’s tears shouldn’t be so cheap,” and said seriously:

“Then I’ll cry for you to see.”

“But I already saw you cry last night.”

Shen Shuanglian’s face flushed crimson.

Chen Yin thought for a moment, then kissed her forehead softly.

“You’re not allowed to cry before I come back. If you can do that, I’ll give you a reward.”

“What reward?”

“You’ll find out tonight.”

Shen Shuanglian hummed softly and rested her chin on her knees, her eyes fixed on him expectantly.

“Come back soon.”

“Don’t worry.”

Chen Yin rekindled the fire, then swiftly left the cave.

As the fire flickered, Shen Shuanglian snuggled deeper into Chen Yin’s robe, burying her face in its warmth.

…He’s always treating me like a child, trying to appease me with empty promises.

But the truth is… after meeting you again in this world, I haven’t cried anymore.

Although I still can’t let go of the pain of your sudden departure…

I’m grateful enough for this reunion.

***

Finding pheasants in the rain was a difficult task.

Chen Yin ventured further out, but he still couldn’t find any trace of them.

He decided to return to the place where he had encountered the Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tiger, hoping to find some pheasants there.

After searching for a long time, he finally spotted a few pheasants leisurely strolling on the other side of a ravine.

As he was about to approach them, a low growl sounded from behind him. Chen Yin turned and saw the massive Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tiger lurking in the nearby forest, its eyes fixed on him warily.

Beside it was the cub whose demon core he had taken. The cub bared its teeth and growled at him, but its body instinctively cowered.

Chen Yin said to them, “I’m not here to cause trouble. Don’t worry.”

With that, he turned and continued towards the pheasants.

The tiger growled again, but there was no aggression in its voice, only caution and warning.

As Chen Yin took another step forward, he felt as if he had hit an invisible wall.

…Hmm?

Chen Yin was intrigued.

He reached out to touch the invisible barrier. It seemed to be some kind of formation, preventing him from entering but not causing any harm.

The pheasants, however, were leisurely strolling behind the barrier.

He couldn’t just let his prey escape. Chen Yin summoned his Eternal Light sword and held it before him.

With a swift and effortless motion, he slashed at the air before him.

Rip.

A crisp sound, like tearing silk, echoed through the air as the space seemed to split open. Chen Yin sheathed his sword and stepped forward. In an instant, the surrounding scenery changed drastically.

The rain-shrouded ravine transformed into a lush bamboo forest. There was no rain, no wind, as if even the air was still.

…Who would set up such a formation in the Heavenly Path Perilous Domain?

Chen Yin walked deeper into the bamboo forest. As the bamboo thinned, a solitary temple appeared at the end of the path.

The temple was ancient and dilapidated, covered in dust and moss, a damp and decaying smell permeating the air.

Chen Yin pushed open the cobweb-covered doors and waved away the dust. The temple was smaller than he had expected, with only a single, modest main hall, where a faded statue stood on an altar.

Chen Yin didn’t recognize the statue, but it emanated a familiar aura.

…The same aura as his scroll.

Hesitantly, he raised his hand, and the ancient scroll appeared, floating before him.

The moment the scroll appeared, the faded statue seemed to flicker with a faint light, but it quickly vanished.

A line of text suddenly appeared on the scroll.

“Heaven has a spirit. All things live and die, decay and flourish in cycles.”

This was the first time Chen Yin had seen writing appear on the scroll. He had always thought it was just a storage space, with its true contents hidden within.

But now it seemed that the scroll was incomplete.

The sentence was clearly unfinished. There should be more, but it wasn’t appearing.

Chen Yin entered the scroll’s space to investigate, but nothing had changed. He stared at the sentence for a long time before finally putting the scroll away.

Before leaving, he couldn’t help but glance back at the statue.

It was a simple and crudely carved figure, vaguely resembling a slender monk.

An image suddenly flashed through Chen Yin’s mind.

In a primordial land, a handsome monk with gentle features clasped his hands together, his eyes lowered in prayer as he bowed towards heaven and earth.

Then, like a giant closing its eyes, the world slowly faded away.

Chen Yin blinked, dazed. He was about to look back at the statue again, but he found himself back in the ravine.

Behind him were the growls of the mother and cub tigers, and before him were the startled pheasants.

Chen Yin pondered for a moment, then dismissed the thought.

…He had always felt that there was a great secret hidden behind the scroll.

But it probably had nothing to do with him now.

He stared at the pheasants before him, their eyes meeting in a silent standoff.

“Thank you for leading me here. If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t have found this place.”

“As a token of gratitude, I won’t hold back.” He chuckled.

The pheasants: “…?”

***

When Chen Yin returned to the cave, Shen Shuanglian’s eyes were red and puffy from holding back tears.

Chen Yin: “…I know I’m late, but I can explain.”

Shen Shuanglian: “I can also choose not to listen.”

“…I was wrong. I’m sorry.”

Shen Shuanglian pressed her lips together and stared at him silently.

Chen Yin sighed, preparing the pheasant while speaking to himself, “You can hit me, you can scold me, whatever you want. Just do what makes you happy.”

“But before that, you have to drink this chicken soup.”

By the time Chen Yin finished making the soup, it was already completely dark. He walked over to Shen Shuanglian with the stone bowl.

Shen Shuanglian was about to take the bowl when Chen Yin said, “Wait.”

He scooped a spoonful of soup, blew on it carefully to cool it down, and brought it to her lips.

“You’re afraid of it being too hot, remember? Drink slowly.”

Shen Shuanglian stared at him blankly for a moment, then gently took the spoon in her mouth and swallowed obediently.

“So, the reward you promised is to feed me soup?”

“Isn’t it enough?” Chen Yin countered.

“…It’s enough.”

Shen Shuanglian finished the entire bowl of soup, even licking her lips with her tongue, before retreating back into the warmth of the robe.

Chen Yin placed his hand on her wrist, his brow furrowing slightly. “Your recovery is a bit slow.”

“I didn’t expect the spiritual energy in that demon core to be so potent. There’s still so much residue.”

Shen Shuanglian suddenly realized something and instinctively recoiled, looking at Chen Yin warily.

Chen Yin said helplessly, “Well, there’s nothing I can do about it. It’s for your injuries.”

Shen Shuanglian said seriously, “It hurts.”

“…I’ll be gentle.”

“You said the same thing yesterday.”

“…”

Chapter 39: A Coward and a Liar

One summer, many years ago.

A little girl was crying loudly in the flowerbed of a residential complex, a dirty ice cream cone lying on the ground beside her.

“Waaah…”

She cried for a long time, but no friends came to comfort her, and her parents didn’t come to soothe her.

Until a voice spoke, “Don’t cry. Here, take this, okay?”

The little girl stopped crying and looked up. A boy, slightly taller than her, held out an ice cream cone, his head turned away.

The little girl wiped her tears, took the ice cream, and said timidly in a childish voice, “Thank you…”

“Don’t cry over something like this next time.”

The boy said softly, “A girl’s tears shouldn’t be so cheap. If you must cry, cry for the boy you love.”

The little girl blinked, not understanding what he meant.

But she felt that his words were beautiful. She liked them very much.

“Don’t you have any friends to play with either?”

“No…”

“I’ll play with you. My name is Chen Yin, what’s yours?”

The little girl hesitated for a moment, then pursed her lips, revealing a sweet dimple.

“Shen Shuangshuang.”

…

Their summer vacation didn’t last long.

One day, the boy she called “Brother Chen Yin” every day, the boy who promised never to leave her after they became friends, suddenly disappeared. As if he had vanished into thin air.

The little girl searched for him everywhere, only to learn from her parents that he had moved away.

That day, she cried heartbrokenly and ran back to the flowerbed alone.

But this time, no one came to pat her head and give her an ice cream.

…

Several years passed, and the girl entered junior high school.

During the summer break before her final year, she attended her parents’ funeral, dressed in black, accompanied by their friends.

…A sudden car accident had taken them away.

In front of the tombstone, their so-called friends cried sorrowfully. But when it came to taking care of her, they all made excuses and avoided her gaze.

The girl remained silent throughout the funeral, her lips tightly pressed together.

She didn’t cry. She didn’t speak.

Back at home, she buried herself in her blanket, hugging her knees tightly as she crouched in a corner of the bed, saying nothing.

She didn’t know what her future held.

Continue school? Or find a job at a factory?

Suddenly, her phone buzzed with a message notification.

It was a bank transfer. There was no sender name, only a simple message:

“Don’t cry. A girl’s tears shouldn’t be so cheap.”

But seeing those words, she couldn’t hold back her tears any longer and sobbed uncontrollably.

After that, she started searching for him again. She learned that he had moved to a different city.

She learned that he had dropped out of college and left home, severing ties with his family.

She learned that he was writing melancholic stories online, just like the sentence he had told her when they first met: “A girl’s tears shouldn’t be so cheap.”

His writing wasn’t necessarily good. But the girl became his loyal reader.

She read every story, every sentence, over and over again. Every night before bed, she would secretly curl up under her blanket, waiting for him to update his blog, as if it was the happiest moment of her day.

She left comments on every post, but never revealed her identity, silently supporting and following him as an anonymous reader.

“Author, you won’t abandon your work, will you? You won’t suddenly leave us, right?”

“No, I won’t. As long as there’s even one reader, I won’t stop writing. This isn’t an empty promise.”

But…

A year and a half later, before the girl graduated high school…

The blog suddenly stopped updating.

He had broken his promise again. He disappeared from her life without a trace.

When she finally found him after much effort, she didn’t get to see him.

She only saw his cold tombstone.

Cause of death: alcohol poisoning. Suspected suicide.

***

At some point, a light drizzle began to fall outside the cave.

It wasn’t heavy, but it was steady, a silky curtain of rain pouring down, bringing a cool, misty air into the cave.

Inside, the scene remained quiet and dark.

Feeling the chill, Shen Shuanglian sneezed softly, rubbed her nose, and wrapped Chen Yin’s robe tighter around herself.

“Cold?”

“…Yes.”

“I’ll hold you, and you’ll be warm.”

“Just hold me, you won’t do anything else?”

“Really. I swear.”

“…I don’t believe you anymore.”

Chen Yin chuckled awkwardly.

Shen Shuanglian hesitated for a moment, then snuggled closer to him, letting him wrap his arms around her, robe and all.

Not wanting to take any chances, Chen Yin gathered the rest of the clothes and piled them around Shen Shuanglian, turning her into a cozy penguin.

Finally, Shen Shuanglian’s slightly red nose stopped sneezing.

“I never knew cultivators could catch colds.”

“…Cultivators are human too.”

“But can mortal germs really infect a cultivator’s body?”

“How would I know? There are no scientists in this world studying cultivators’ bodies.”

Shen Shuanglian’s voice was slightly weak and hoarse, with a hint of resentment.

Chen Yin wanted to continue the conversation, but seeing Shen Shuanglian about to sneeze again, he quickly tightened his embrace, feeling a pang of concern.

“Ah, I should have taken more precautions last night to keep you warm. We shouldn’t have put out the fire.”

“We couldn’t leave it burning.” Shen Shuanglian’s voice was a little urgent.

“Why?”

“…I would be embarrassed if there was light.”

“…”

Chen Yin didn’t dare to argue. After all, if anyone was to blame for Shen Shuanglian catching a cold, it was him.

So no matter how much she complained, he could only listen patiently.

“Are you hungry? I’ll go catch a pheasant and make you some chicken soup.”

Shen Shuanglian didn’t answer. She just hugged her knees and buried her head.

Seeing that she didn’t object, Chen Yin thought that maybe some chicken soup would make her feel better, so he got up to leave.

But just as he stood up, a hand grabbed his wrist tightly. Shen Shuanglian looked at him with pleading eyes, her lips pressed together.

“Uh, aren’t you hungry?”

“…I just don’t want you to leave.”

“But if I don’t go catch a pheasant, it won’t just come to me and ask to be eaten.”

“It’s okay, I can go hungry. I don’t mind.”

Her eyes held a childish stubbornness that left Chen Yin at a loss.

“But Sister, if you keep doing this, how will your cold ever get better?”

Shen Shuanglian’s eyes became even more pitiful. She whispered, “What if you leave and abandon me again?”

“When have I ever abandoned you—that’s a completely different situation!”

Chen Yin facepalmed in despair. He couldn’t understand how his usually cold and aloof Senior Sister had suddenly become so clingy overnight.

Could losing one’s virginity really have such a drastic effect on a girl?

“I was just a child back then. My parents decided to move, what could I do?”

“You know I’m not talking about that.” Shen Shuanglian’s eyes were filled with tears as she stared at him.

Chen Yin fell silent. After a long while, he sighed softly.

“Alright, tell me if you get hungry.”

He sat back down beside Shen Shuanglian and pulled her into a tight embrace.

Shen Shuanglian pressed her head against his chest, as if seeking comfort from his warmth.

The cave fell silent once more, only the soft patter of rain could be heard from outside.

Chen Yin never imagined that he would one day be holding a beautiful girl in his arms, her thin robe barely concealing her bare skin.

But he had no impure thoughts. He was simply worried that she would catch a chill.

The silence stretched on for a long time. Chen Yin suddenly said softly, “…I’m sorry.”

“Why are you apologizing?” Shen Shuanglian looked up at him.

“My situation back then… was complicated. I wasn’t thinking straight.”

Chen Yin averted his gaze, feeling guilty. “And we hadn’t seen each other for so many years. I thought you had forgotten about me.”

The moment he said those words, he regretted it.

As expected, Shen Shuanglian’s lips trembled, her eyes reddened, and she looked at him with an indescribable sadness.

“…Liar.” She whispered.

Chen Yin couldn’t argue and could only force a smile.

The air was filled with the scent of damp earth, making Shen Shuanglian feel uncomfortable. She wanted to sneeze.

But she held it back.

She knew that if she kept sneezing, Chen Yin would worry about her and insist on going out to catch a pheasant and make her soup.

Perhaps there was a stubborn part of her that didn’t want to see him disappear from her sight again.

…What if…

What if this time, he left without saying goodbye again?

She shivered, snuggling closer to Chen Yin like a docile kitten.

Chen Yin felt her soft and delicate body pressing against him and shifted uncomfortably.

“Ahem… If you’re not feeling well, you don’t have to force yourself to stay in my arms. Why don’t you lie down?”

“No.”

“…Never mind.”

The sky darkened, and it seemed to be getting late.

Chen Yin sighed softly. “I can’t let you be stubborn anymore.”

“It’ll be even colder at night. It’s dangerous for you to go without food and warmth.”

Shen Shuanglian clung to him, biting her lip, her eyes pleading. “No.”

“Don’t worry, I won’t leave without saying goodbye this time.” He said softly, trying to comfort her.

“Then tell me, why did you lie to me before?”

“…The time I moved, it was so sudden. I was in a hurry and didn’t have time to tell you.”

“And what about the other time?” Shen Shuanglian stared at him intently, her voice urgent.

“Why… did you try to kill yourself?”

Chen Yin fell silent.

The sound of his heartbeat mixed with the patter of rain, creating a muffled rhythm.

After a long while, he turned his head and looked out of the cave, his voice quiet and distant. “There’s no particular reason.”

“Just a coward…”

“…who couldn’t go on living.”

Chapter 38: Even If It’s a Lie, I’m Willing to Wait for You

Silence hung heavy in the air inside the cave.

Chen Yin and Shen Shuanglian sat facing the fire, both with their heads lowered, neither speaking a word.

The flickering flames cast dancing shadows on Shen Shuanglian’s face, her cheeks flushed the same color as the fire. Her lips were tightly pressed together, and the faint sound of her heartbeat filled the silence.

“Ahem… Well, Senior Sister,” Chen Yin finally broke the awkward silence, speaking in a serious tone.

“Here’s the thing. It is what it is. Whether you want to kill me or punish me, it’s all up to you. I won’t complain.”

“But I think we should focus on dealing with the current situation first. You can punish me later.”

Shen Shuanglian didn’t answer. She just kept her head lowered, almost burying her face in her knees.

Chen Yin cautiously observed her and asked tentatively, “Uh, is there any other way to… cure this poison from the demon core?”

“…Normally, you could just expel the chaotic spiritual energy from the demon core, and it would be fine.”

After a long silence, Shen Shuanglian finally dared to raise her head slightly, revealing her trembling eyes. Her voice was soft and weak. “But… my meridians are damaged, and I can’t use my spiritual energy…”

“I-I don’t know if there’s any other way…”

Seeing the tears welling up in Shen Shuanglian’s eyes, Chen Yin panicked and stammered, “Senior Sister, please don’t cry! I-I didn’t do it on purpose.”

“I didn’t know that the Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tiger was special! I thought all demon cores could be used for healing.”

He slapped himself hard twice. “It’s my fault, it’s my fault for being lazy when I was studying. I didn’t remember any of the spirit beast illustrations Master told me to read. I deserve to die, I’m so sorry, Senior Sister—”

Before he could slap himself again, a soft hand gently grasped his wrist.

Shen Shuanglian’s face was flushed, and she said softly, “Stop it… Stop pretending. You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?”

Chen Yin chuckled sheepishly and stopped. “So, Senior Sister isn’t angry with me anymore?”

“I-I wasn’t angry with you in the first place.”

Shen Shuanglian hugged her knees, her usual cold and aloof demeanor replaced by the shyness of a young girl with a fluttering heart. “I was just… a little scared.”

“Scared? Scared that the poison would hurt you?”

Shen Shuanglian bit her lip hard and didn’t answer.

Chen Yin coughed deliberately and sat up straight. “I, Chen Yin, might be cowardly and lecherous, but I’m also a man who takes responsibility for his actions.”

“Since I’m the one who caused you to be poisoned, I will take full responsibility. I won’t let your innocence be tarnished by me.”

“Just tell me, Senior Sister, what can cure this poison? I’ll go through fire and water to get it for you.”

Shen Shuanglian didn’t speak, just glanced at him timidly.

“What if… there’s no other way?”

“…”

Chen Yin scratched his head and looked at Shen Shuanglian with a pitiful expression. “Th-then what should we do? We can’t just… ?”

As if burned by his intense gaze, Shen Shuanglian quickly looked away and buried her head again.

Chen Yin could only stare at her awkwardly.

The fire crackled softly, and the cave fell silent, so quiet that you could hear a pin drop.

Time seemed to slow down. Neither of them dared to speak, only stealing glances at each other in the flickering firelight.

The flames cast a soft pink glow on Shen Shuanglian’s skin, making her look incredibly shy.

Shen Shuanglian remained silent, and Chen Yin finally sighed.

…Honestly, he hadn’t expected things to turn out this way.

He had a good impression of this beautiful, charming, and outwardly cold but inwardly warm Senior Sister. But he wouldn’t have deliberately orchestrated this situation just for that.

He had genuinely wanted to find something to help her recover from her injuries, but who knew it would lead to this?

For the first time, he regretted not paying more attention to the books his Master had given him to read. If he had studied them more carefully, he might not be in such an awkward situation now.

What Chen Yin feared the most was whether Senior Sister could accept that kind of treatment.

It might not be a big deal to him, but for a conservative and reserved woman like Senior Sister, she might rather die than lose her innocence. Should he just watch as her condition worsened, or should he force himself on her to save her life?

Just the thought of it filled Chen Yin with guilt.

As he was frowning and worrying, a barely audible voice came from beside him:

“Will you… keep your promise?”

“What promise?”

“Take full responsibility for me.” Shen Shuanglian slowly raised her timid eyes to meet his.

Chen Yin fell silent, then bowed deeply towards her.

“If Senior Sister doesn’t mind, then I, Chen Yin, vow to be with you for life, never abandoning you, until death do us part.”

He spoke earnestly, each word clear and resolute.

Shen Shuanglian’s eyes widened slightly, then she quickly lowered them, hiding the sweetness in her gaze.

“…Okay.”

“So, what does Senior Sister mean?” Chen Yin asked cautiously.

Shen Shuanglian didn’t answer directly. Instead, she said softly, “Just talk to me for a while.”

She glanced at the space beside her, as if inviting him to sit closer.

Chen Yin immediately scooted over and sat beside her.

“What does Senior Sister want to talk about?”

“You…” She blushed, hesitating for a long time before finally mustering the courage to ask softly, “Do you have any experience?”

Chen Yin froze, then blushed as well, chuckling awkwardly.

…Experience? What experience?

He had been single his entire life. In his previous life, the most intimate interaction he had with a girl was playing house with his neighbor’s little sister when he was a child.

Although in this life, he had somehow managed to have ambiguous encounters with two women, even kissing was enough to make his heart race. Anything beyond that was simply beyond his courage.

“I heard… it’s very painful…”

“Uh, probably. I can be gentle?”

Shen Shuanglian glared at him playfully.

Chen Yin looked at her innocently, unsure what he had said wrong.

…Could it be that Senior Sister preferred it rough?

He suddenly noticed that Shen Shuanglian’s body seemed to be slightly warm, and her breathing had become a little erratic. Her collar was pulled open slightly.

Uh, was the poison already taking effect?

Chen Yin didn’t dare to ask. As long as Shen Shuanglian didn’t say anything, he could only watch helplessly.

Shen Shuanglian seemed to notice her own discomfort. She bit her lip, her eyes sparkling, and said softly:

“I have one more question for you.”

“What is it?”

“Do you… like me?”

Chen Yin took a deep breath. “Do you want to hear the truth, Senior Sister?”

Shen Shuanglian nodded.

“Before I answer, can Senior Sister answer a question for me first?”

“What do you think of me?” Chen Yin asked seriously.

Shen Shuanglian thought for a moment and replied softly, “An unreliable and lecherous Junior Brother.”

“…Nothing else?”

“No.”

Chen Yin facepalmed and said, “In that case, are you really willing to give yourself to me?”

“To the unreliable and lecherous Junior Brother you described?”

Shen Shuanglian was speechless for a moment. She was about to speak but stopped herself.

Her eyelashes lowered, and a hint of sadness appeared in her eyes.

“If you’re truly unwilling, Senior Sister, there’s no need to force yourself. This is my fault. I’ll make sure you’re safe, even if it costs me my life.”

Chen Yin looked at her intently. “I hope you won’t regret your decision one day.”

Shen Shuanglian pressed her lips together.

She remained silent for a long time before finally saying:

“Put out the fire.”

Chen Yin obeyed and waved his sleeve. The fire instantly extinguished.

The cave was plunged back into darkness. In the faint light filtering in from outside, Chen Yin saw Shen Shuanglian’s bright eyes, shimmering in the darkness.

After a moment of rustling sounds, Chen Yin heard a soft voice:

“…You still haven’t answered. Do you like me?”

“I’m afraid that if I tell you, you’ll think I’m a frivolous man and regret it.”

“Aren’t you?”

“At least I keep my promises.” Chen Yin shrugged.

Then, he suddenly felt a soft and warm body press against his back, her arms wrapping around him from behind.

“Actually, it doesn’t matter if you like me or not.”

“Maybe I just wanted to hear you say it once. Even if it’s a lie.” She whispered in his ear.

“Even if it’s a lie, I’m willing to wait for you.”

“…Even if I never get to see you again.”

“Chen Yin.”

Chen Yin’s pupils constricted.

It had been a long time since he had heard anyone call him by that name.

…It was his name from his previous life.

He was about to speak, but his lips were already sealed by a soft touch.

It was a gentle and clear sensation, like moonlight melting away the ice.

Everything melted away.

Only soft moans echoed faintly in the cave.

“…You’re hurting me.”

“…I’m sorry.”

Chapter 37: Don’t Be Afraid of What I’m About to Tell You…

Outside the cave, a colossal purple-furred tiger roared, its thunderous voice shaking the forest, sending birds and beasts scattering, and causing tremors in the mountain.

Shen Shuanglian’s face paled slightly, but her eyes quickly calmed. She shielded Chen Yin behind her, biting her lip.

“I’ll hold it off, you run to the other side of the mountain, and don’t look back.”

Chen Yin looked at the enormous tiger with an awkward expression. He couldn’t bring himself to tell Shen Shuanglian that he was the one who had attracted this trouble, so he simply said, “Senior Sister, you’re seriously injured. Don’t push yourself.”

“You’re the one who shouldn’t be pushing yourself!”

Shen Shuanglian’s voice was unusually stern. “This adult Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tiger is definitely at the Supreme Clarity Realm. With your Cloud Ascending Realm cultivation, you won’t even be able to withstand the aftershock of its attacks.”

“Don’t worry about me, I still have a life-saving—”

“I know you have a life-saving measure, Senior Sister.” Chen Yin chuckled.

“Who wouldn’t have a few tricks up their sleeve when they’re a top prodigy? However…”

“…So do I.” His gaze shifted to the massive tiger.

Shen Shuanglian froze.

The tiger’s eyes locked onto Chen Yin, and it roared, smashing a rock with its paw and charging towards him with overwhelming force.

Chen Yin met its gaze calmly, his Eternal Light sword hovering before him. He spoke softly:

“I didn’t intend to take your child’s life. And I don’t want to kill you.”

“Leave now, or die.”

His tone was flat and emotionless.

But the tiger, as if sensing a life-or-death crisis, bristled with fear. Its back arched, and it skidded to a halt a mere three feet away from Chen Yin.

A bottomless chasm appeared where its paws had stopped, cleaved by a single sword strike.

The Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tiger was stunned. Shen Shuanglian was stunned.

She hadn’t even seen when Chen Yin had drawn his sword.

But the chasm was undeniably there, as if the entire ravine had been split in two.

The tiger gulped nervously, its massive body trembling as it backed away, its eyes fixed warily on Chen Yin.

Shen Shuanglian stared at him in disbelief.

Chen Yin simply sighed, his expression still lazy and carefree. He said softly:

“As a spirit beast, you live in a world of survival of the fittest. I’ve already shown you mercy by sparing your life. Besides, this place is rich in spiritual energy. It won’t take you long to recover the lost cultivation. Why throw your life away over a petty grudge?”

“I’ll give you one more chance. If you don’t leave, I don’t mind adding some extra ingredients to my friend’s medicine.”

The tiger paced back and forth, growling softly. It stared at Chen Yin for a long time before finally letting out a defeated roar and turning to leave swiftly.

Chen Yin let out a sigh of relief and turned to look at Shen Shuanglian with an awkward expression.

“Uh… Senior Sister, can we talk about something?”

“Just pretend you didn’t see what happened just now, okay?”

Shen Shuanglian didn’t answer, her clear eyes fixed on him.

Chen Yin scratched his head. It seemed he couldn’t brush this off.

“That sword strike.” To his surprise, Shen Shuanglian spoke first. “Does it have a name?”

“…I don’t know.”

Chen Yin thought for a moment. He truly didn’t know the names of these three sword moves. Perhaps the person who created them was as lazy as he was and didn’t bother naming them.

“Since we don’t know its name, let’s just call it ‘First Sword.’” Chen Yin nodded with satisfaction.

Shen Shuanglian: “…”

Chen Yin asked curiously, “Does it sound bad?”

“…Whatever makes you happy.”

Shen Shuanglian sheathed her sword, walked over to the chasm, and gently touched it.

As a fellow sword cultivator, she could clearly sense a strange aura emanating from the sword scar.

It was an inexplicable feeling, but it made Shen Shuanglian feel a sense of familiarity.

“Could this be… what Master mentioned, Dao Resonance?” Shen Shuanglian asked hesitantly.

“Dao Resonance? What’s that?”

Seeing Chen Yin’s confused expression, Shen Shuanglian looked at him with surprise. “You used that sword strike, and you don’t even know what it is?”

Chen Yin shook his head.

“Cultivators cultivate to understand the Dao. And the Dao exists within heaven and earth. Being able to sense the existence of the Dao is enough to reach the Supreme Clarity Realm.”

“Therefore, Supreme Clarity Realm cultivators can use the Dao as a template, communicate with heaven and earth, and borrow their power for their own use.”

“But at this stage, it’s just borrowing. The Dao is not something you’ve truly comprehended.”

“If you truly comprehend the Dao, then every move you make will be infused with its principles. Defying you would be equivalent to defying the Dao itself. Therefore, someone who has comprehended the Dao will always have an absolute advantage over someone who hasn’t, regardless of how close their cultivation levels are. It’s a fundamental difference.”

“But you know,” Shen Shuanglian shook her head, “even many Grand Clarity Realm Immortals haven’t fully comprehended the Dao.”

“Even if they can barely imbue their attacks with a trace of Dao Resonance, the power is already extraordinary.”

Chen Yin nodded thoughtfully.

“As expected of Senior Sister, you know so much.”

Shen Shuanglian lowered her gaze slightly. “Master… I mean, the Sect Master, he’s still stuck at the threshold of fully comprehending the Dao. That’s why his cultivation has remained at the middle stage of the Grand Clarity Realm. He hasn’t been able to take the final step and ascend to immortality.”

Chen Yin suddenly teased, “So you’re saying I can fight your Master now?”

“I don’t know…” Shen Shuanglian looked a little lost, seemingly both curious about the sword strike and reluctant to pry into Chen Yin’s secrets.

Chen Yin could tell what the straightforward girl was thinking. He didn’t hide anything and said openly:

“I found this sword technique by chance in a secret realm. There’s no profound cultivation method, just this simple sword strike. I just practiced it for a long time, and it naturally became powerful.”

Shen Shuanglian looked at him suspiciously. “Practiced for a long time? How long?”

Chen Yin remained silent.

How long? He couldn’t remember.

A day or two? Millions of years?

In that timeless space, he had simply repeated the same sword strike over and over again, until his consciousness blurred.

He was only released after mastering it.

“Anyway, it was a long time.” Finally, Chen Yin just chuckled wryly.

Shen Shuanglian wisely didn’t ask any further questions.

“But, Senior Sister, there’s something I’m curious about.”

Chen Yin leaned closer to Shen Shuanglian and asked mischievously, “If I hadn’t used that sword strike just now, were you planning to stay behind and buy me time?”

“So Senior Sister cares so much about my safety.”

“D-don’t be ridiculous.”

Shen Shuanglian blushed slightly. “I’m the Senior Sister of the sect. It’s my duty to protect my fellow disciples.”

“Yes, yes, yes~”

Chen Yin teased, “Senior Sister is so loyal and righteous, I admire you!”

“However…”

His smile faded, and he gently placed a hand on her head.

“Don’t push yourself next time.”

“I’m not as weak as you think.” Chen Yin said seriously.

Shen Shuanglian stared at him, then lowered her eyelashes, her voice tinged with a hint of grievance.

“I-I was just afraid that you…”

“You worry about others, and others worry about you.”

Chen Yin interrupted her, his eyes clear. “In the eyes of others, you’re the Senior Sister, and I’m the Junior Brother. You should be taking care of me and protecting me.”

“But there are no outsiders here.”

“In my eyes, the current situation is simply a man needing to take care of an injured woman.”

He spoke earnestly, his words carrying no hidden meaning.

But looking at his clear and sincere eyes, Shen Shuanglian felt a warmth spreading through her heart.

She was starting to enjoy this feeling of being cared for.

…If only this moment could last a little longer. It wouldn’t matter if her injuries took longer to heal.

But before this feeling could linger, Chen Yin’s mischievous voice rang out again:

“Of course, if Senior Sister feels too guilty, you can always pay me some compensation after we get out of here~”

Shen Shuanglian: “…”

“Oh, or if Senior Sister has fallen for my handsome and charming appearance, I wouldn’t mind accepting your affections~”

Chen Yin said with a shy and coy expression, looking utterly infuriating.

Shen Shuanglian, with her thin skin, couldn’t handle his teasing and quickly changed the subject. “That Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tiger…”

“What about it?”

“Generally, Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tigers are solitary creatures. And adult tigers are usually docile and don’t attack humans.”

Shen Shuanglian frowned slightly. “But that tiger was clearly enraged. I wonder why.”

“Well…” Chen Yin averted his gaze, feeling guilty. “Maybe… its child was unlucky and had its demon core taken by a passing cultivator for alchemy?”

“Impossible.” Shen Shuanglian chuckled for the first time.

She rarely smiled, but when she did, it was like ice melting in the spring, radiating a pure and radiant charm that seemed to come from her very soul.

Chen Yin stared at her, mesmerized, before finally snapping out of his trance. “What’s wrong? Isn’t it common knowledge that demon cores are used for alchemy? The spiritual energy contained within them is very beneficial for cultivators.”

“Generally, yes.”

Shen Shuanglian said casually, “But Purple-Whiskered Thunder Mane Tigers are an exception. Their demon cores contain chaotic and toxic spiritual energy. For human cultivators, it’s extremely difficult to refine and absorb this energy without harmonizing yin and yang.”

“Not to mention, besides you and me, there shouldn’t be any other cultivators in the Heavenly Path Perilous Domain. And even if there were, they wouldn’t be stupid enough to risk their lives for a poisonous demon core.”

She didn’t notice that Chen Yin had fallen silent after hearing her words.

“Uh… if you don’t mind me asking, what do you mean by harmonizing yin and yang?”

“It naturally refers to… that kind of…” Shen Shuanglian blushed, seemingly embarrassed to elaborate. “Intimate activities between husband and wife.”

Chen Yin grew even quieter.

Noticing his strange expression and furrowed brow, Shen Shuanglian asked curiously, “What’s wrong?”

“Well, ahem.”

Chen Yin cleared his throat and suddenly grabbed Shen Shuanglian’s shoulders, his expression so serious that it startled her.

“Senior Sister, I promise you.”

“In my next life, I will study hard and never be illiterate again.”

“So…”

“Don’t be afraid of what I’m about to tell you…”