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

Chapter 26: I Spent the Night With Him

As the time arrived, the two women gracefully stepped onto the stage.

One in azure blue, the other in fiery red, their figures seemed to divide the sky and capture all eyes.

Luo Qiaoqiao stared at Shen Shuanglian for a moment, then chuckled softly:

“Before we start, mind if I say something unrelated to the match?”

Shen Shuanglian didn’t refuse.

“You seem to care a lot about Chen Yin,” Luo Qiaoqiao said lightly. “But as far as I know, you shouldn’t have had much interaction with this disciple from a branch sect.”

“Why do you care so much about him?”

Shen Shuanglian’s brows furrowed slightly, and she replied calmly, “That’s irrelevant to our match today.”

“Of course it’s relevant.”

Luo Qiaoqiao smiled sweetly. “I need to know what your relationship with him is.”

“…So I can decide how hard to go on you.”

Shen Shuanglian frowned and remained silent. After a moment, she countered, “What about you?”

“I’m at least from the same sect as him. Why would someone from the Heavenly Net Sect have any connection with him?”

“You haven’t answered my question.”

“Why should I answer yours if you don’t answer mine?”

The two women stared at each other, their eyes filled with an unspoken probing.

Luo Qiaoqiao narrowed her eyes slightly. She looked at Shen Shuanglian for a long time, then suddenly broke into a smile.

“I spent the night with him.”

Shen Shuanglian’s eyes widened in shock.

“Oh, your reaction is cuter than I expected.”

Luo Qiaoqiao giggled. “Are you jealous? It seems that little brother Chen Yin holds a special place in your heart.”

Shen Shuanglian looked dazed for a moment, then shook her head. “Don’t try to trick me.”

“He and I… are just ordinary fellow disciples. We met once a few months ago.”

“We’re not… very close.”

Luo Qiaoqiao’s initially cheerful expression gradually turned cold.

She could sense the panic and wavering in the eyes of the seemingly aloof and ethereal fairy before her, but Shen Shuanglian never lost her composure.

This was different from the reaction she had expected. She was dissatisfied.

“Good to know.”

She suddenly said in a deliberately sweet voice, “That night, when we were together, he promised to spend his life with me.”

“He said how cute and beautiful I was, how good I was to him. He praised me as the true Number One Fairy.”

“If he’s secretly flirting with you behind my back, I’ll have to teach that little playboy a lesson when I get back.”

She spoke so naturally, her face filled with tenderness and sweetness, as if she was truly talking about her beloved.

Shen Shuanglian didn’t say a word, just lowered her eyes further.

After a long while, she finally spoke in a calm and emotionless voice, “Are you done?”

“If you’re not going to fight, then just surrender and get off the stage.”

“Hehe, is little sister Shen getting impatient?” Luo Qiaoqiao chuckled, covering her mouth. “If little sister is also smitten with him, I don’t mind sharing him with you. It’s just a win-win for that little rascal.”

At that moment, Shen Shuanglian suddenly moved.

As she made her move, the arena seemed to be enveloped in a hazy moonlight. Elegant narcissus flowers bloomed under her feet with each step, and her sword glowed with a pure and flawless moonlight.

Her first move was the Mist Spirit Sect’s ultimate technique, the Mist Moon Frost Sword Art.

Seeing Shen Shuanglian’s sudden attack, Luo Qiaoqiao gracefully twirled, her fiery red sleeves fluttering as a clear sword cry, like the cry of a phoenix, echoed through the air.

The Heavenly Net Sect’s secret technique, the Silk Robe Phoenix Cry Melody.

The two sword lights clashed, igniting cheers from the audience. The long-awaited showdown had finally begun.

Chen Yin, watching from the stands, finally became engrossed in the match. The two women had been whispering to each other for a long time, and he had been dying to know what they were talking about.

…He never imagined that they were discussing him, a topic completely unrelated to the competition.

He had to admit, once the match started, it was a feast for the eyes. The two fairies moved gracefully, their figures intertwining, their sword lights and phoenix cries echoing through the air.

These two were undoubtedly the most renowned young cultivators in the cultivation world. In terms of cultivation alone, their Boundless Realm strength could crush most of the people present. They wielded their respective techniques with ease, their sword lights clashing in a dazzling display, neither gaining an advantage over the other.

Cheers and applause erupted from the audience.

Chen Yin also watched with appreciation, enjoying the sight of these two women fighting. But after a while, he suddenly let out a surprised sound.

“…Huh? Why is Senior Sister being so aggressive?”

An outsider sees the excitement, but an expert sees the nuances. Chen Yin, being a sword cultivator himself, could tell with a glance that Shen Shuanglian was relentlessly attacking for some reason.

Her every strike was sharp and relentless, giving Luo Qiaoqiao no chance to breathe.

Although this was a very dominant approach, it seemed a little too hasty for cultivators of their level.

“Why does it feel like… she’s throwing a tantrum?”

Chen Yin scratched his head.

Could it be that Luo Qiaoqiao had said something before the match that angered his Senior Sister?

Shen Shuanglian, truly worthy of being the top prodigy of the Mist Spirit Sect, even with such an aggressive attack, her swordsmanship was still as smooth and continuous as a flowing river. Luo Qiaoqiao could only maintain a flawless defense, unable to find an opportunity to counterattack.

Chen Yin watched, occasionally letting out sighs of admiration.

As expected, women fighting was truly a sight to behold.

On the stage, Luo Qiaoqiao’s red dress billowed and swayed like a blooming red spider lily. As she parried Shen Shuanglian’s attacks, she couldn’t help but chuckle:

“Why are you so angry, little sister? Did I hit a nerve?”

Shen Shuanglian didn’t say a word, her swordsmanship becoming even fiercer.

“Hehe, if you truly have feelings for him, why keep them bottled up inside? Why not just tell him?”

“But it’s too bad.”

“He’s already mine.” With that, Luo Qiaoqiao licked her lips suggestively, her eyes seductive.

For a split second, Shen Shuanglian’s aura wavered slightly.

Luo Qiaoqiao wouldn’t miss this fleeting opportunity. Her sword rang out clearly as she struck Shen Shuanglian’s sword with a powerful blow.

Shen Shuanglian stumbled, her aura unsteady, and she quickly retreated.

This was the chance Luo Qiaoqiao had been waiting for.

Her sword erupted with a surge of sword intent, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, its cry echoing through the heavens.

Soaring Phoenix Cry. An invisible, gigantic phoenix spread its wings and charged towards the stumbling Shen Shuanglian.

Many people in the audience began to lament, believing that Shen Shuanglian’s defeat was imminent. Even the sect elders, seated on the high platform, shook their heads in disappointment.

Only Chen Yin continued to watch the match intently.

Just as the phoenix was about to pierce Shen Shuanglian’s slender figure, her eyes suddenly turned calm.

Her previously stumbling footsteps transformed into a series of ghostly movements, culminating in the starting stance of a sword technique.

Moonfall Cry.

A sword light as pure as the moon sliced through the fiery red sky. The invisible phoenix seemed to let out a soft cry of despair before being shattered by the sword light, scattering into countless sparks.

Luo Qiaoqiao’s expression turned to shock.

After a moment, the sparks dissipated, and Shen Shuanglian and Luo Qiaoqiao stood motionless in the center of the stage.

Shen Shuanglian’s sword was hovering before Luo Qiaoqiao’s throat.

Luo Qiaoqiao stared at Shen Shuanglian’s face and said each word slowly, “You cheated.”

“You did the same.” Shen Shuanglian’s expression was calm and impassive.

“You deliberately let your guard down, assuming I would be affected.”

She thought for a moment and added, “I told you. He and I are just ordinary fellow disciples.”

Luo Qiaoqiao pouted slightly, her face filled with frustration and annoyance, but she didn’t say anything more.

She knew that she had been reckless. If they had continued fighting, the outcome would have been uncertain.

After a moment of silence, the arena erupted in a cacophony of cheers and chatter. The referee seized the opportunity to announce Shen Shuanglian’s victory and her advancement to the final.

Luo Qiaoqiao gracefully descended from the stage. The Heavenly Net Sect disciples below hesitated, unsure how to approach their Senior Sister without incurring her wrath. But Luo Qiaoqiao didn’t seem to care much and simply sighed.

“Tch. Let that woman have her moment of glory.”

Then, her gaze inadvertently fell upon Chen Yin in the stands.

Chen Yin was also looking at her.

Luo Qiaoqiao instantly put on a pitiful expression, her eyes welling up with tears, looking utterly heartbroken.

Her eyes seemed to say, “Sister lost, Sister is so sad and wronged, she needs her little brother to hug her, kiss her, and comfort her.”

Chen Yin: “…”

…She wouldn’t have deliberately lost just to seek comfort from me, would she?

No way, right?

But Chen Yin felt that this was something that crazy girl was capable of.

Meanwhile, Shen Shuanglian descended from the stage amidst cheers and applause, her expression still calm and serene.

The System’s voice sounded in her mind:

“That was close. That girl is also a Chosen One with a System. If I hadn’t blocked her System for you, you might not have won.”

Shen Shuanglian lowered her head and remained silent.

“But that girl actually saw through your feelings for that boy before the match. She’s quite perceptive. Hehe, it’s nice to see young people so full of passion.”

She still didn’t say anything.

“What’s wrong? Still thinking about the match?” The System couldn’t help but ask.

But the next moment, the System was stunned.

Shen Shuanglian’s usually icy cheeks were now tinged with a faint blush, and she wore a delighted expression like a young girl, her lips curving into a sweet smile.

“System,” she murmured as if to herself, “I won.”

“Wearing the clothes he likes, looking the way he likes, I won.”

The System: “…”

Chapter 25: Two Fairies

“This Fairy Yin Mengwan is a true dark horse!”

“Not only is she undefeated, but she’s also won every match with overwhelming dominance. Her cultivation alone surpasses her opponents by a huge margin.”

“It’s a pity that Fairy Yin Mengwan always wears a veil and doesn’t reveal her true face. But judging by her figure alone, she’s just as eye-catching and alluring as Frost Moon Sword Immortal and Silk-Robe Fairy.”

“Who knows? Maybe she’s hiding her face because she’s ugly.”

“I think she’s just low-key and aloof, not interested in showing off. Otherwise, with such impressive cultivation, why haven’t we heard of her in the cultivation world?”

“Behind that veil, she’s probably a breathtaking beauty.”

…

As the competition progressed, the mysterious veiled fairy, Yin Mengwan, attracted more and more attention. She was even starting to rival Frost Moon Sword Immortal and Silk-Robe Fairy in popularity.

And by this point in the tournament, only these three remained undefeated, winning every match with ease.

Discussions about the three of them grew increasingly heated. Whenever they had a match, the stands would be packed with spectators.

Chen Yin had initially wanted to take advantage of the situation and make some money by betting, but seeing Yin Mengwan’s odds getting lower and lower, he figured there wasn’t much profit to be made and decided to stop.

The tournament was nearing its end. Soon, the quarter-finals were all over.

As expected, the four semi-finalists were Shen Shuanglian, Luo Qiaoqiao, and Yin Mengwan. The remaining spot was taken by a female disciple from the Heavenly Net Sect, but in terms of strength, she was clearly not on the same level as the other three.

When the semi-final matchups were announced, Chen Yin was happily munching on candied hawthorns with Xiang’er, which they had bought at the foot of the mountain.

“Senior Brother, who do you think will win the semi-finals?”

“I don’t know… But according to those who are betting, our Senior Sister, Silk-Robe Fairy, and that veiled fairy Yin Mengwan are all evenly matched. It seems anyone could win.”

“Then who does Senior Brother hope will win?”

Chen Yin smacked his lips and shook his head leisurely. “I don’t hope for anyone to win.”

“Anyway, our Xiang’er didn’t make it to the semi-finals, so no matter who wins, I don’t really recognize the value of this championship.”

Yu Xiang pouted, grabbed Chen Yin’s sleeve, and wiped her mouth with it, ignoring his protests.

“Hey! Silly girl, I just washed this robe!”

“Stinky Senior Brother. Who told you to poke fun at me?”

Amidst the noisy crowd, the two of them sat on the steps, enjoying their candied hawthorns.

They were like two people living in a mirror world, oblivious to the commotion around them.

After a while, Xiang’er looked at the last remaining candied hawthorn and sighed wistfully.

“I actually hope that Yin Mengwan, who suddenly appeared out of nowhere, wins.”

“Why?”

“Because don’t you think it would be cool, Senior Brother?”

Yu Xiang blinked. “An unknown, powerful, and mysterious woman suddenly appears, defeats the two renowned fairies who are always praised by the righteous sects, and takes the championship.”

“That story sounds so interesting.” She finished with an excited smile.

Chen Yin chuckled. “Why do I feel like this sounds like the typical villain in a story?”

The smile on Xiang’er’s face froze.

She lowered her head slightly, her voice unconsciously becoming quieter. “Senior Brother…”

“Can’t the villain… be in the spotlight for once?”

Chen Yin glanced at her discreetly.

Xiang’er kept her head lowered, fiddling with the candied hawthorn stick, her eyes downcast, as if covered in dust.

“Does Xiang’er want the villain to win?”

“I don’t know… But I feel sorry for villains.”

Xiang’er said sadly, “Many of them are forced into their roles. Just because they’re villains, does that mean they’re destined to be stepping stones for the protagonist?”

Chen Yin was silent for a moment, then suddenly smiled and ruffled her hair playfully.

“Silly girl. What’s a protagonist or a villain? It’s all just a matter of the storyteller’s words and brush.”

There was never absolute good or absolute evil. The so-called protagonists and villains were just gimmicks in the storyteller’s narrative.

If their roles were reversed, it would be the same.

…It’s just that people love stories where the protagonist triumphs over the villain.

Yu Xiang didn’t say anything.

She stared at her toes, lost in thought.

“I’m actually more curious about why everyone cares so much about the title of Number One Fairy.”

Chen Yin leaned back on the steps, a candied hawthorn stick still in his mouth.

“Is it really that important for girls to be the Number One Fairy?”

“What do you mean ‘for girls’? Don’t men fight just as hard for the title of Number One?” Xiang’er pouted with dissatisfaction.

Chen Yin thought about it and realized she was right.

“Number One… what’s so special about it?”

“I don’t know about others.” Yu Xiang lowered her eyes slightly. “But if a woman is willing to fight tooth and nail for the title of Number One Fairy…”

“Then she’s probably not doing it for herself.”

She’s doing it for someone who wants her to be the Number One Fairy.

Chen Yin glanced at Xiang’er and asked curiously, propping his head up with his hand:

“Then if Xiang’er became the Number One Fairy, who would it be for?”

Yu Xiang’s eyes darted around, then she smiled sweetly, revealing her dimples.

“It definitely wouldn’t be for you, stinky Senior Brother.”

Chen Yin slumped back dramatically, feigning heartbreak, making Xiang’er giggle.

At that moment, a wave of gasps and exclamations erupted from the crowd.

They looked up, and the semi-final matchups were announced.

Yin Mengwan vs. the female cultivator from the Heavenly Net Sect.

And Luo Qiaoqiao… vs. Shen Shuanglian.

The crowd went wild, everyone buzzing with excitement about the upcoming clash of titans.

“Oh my god, Frost Moon Sword Immortal is facing Silk-Robe Fairy in the semi-finals? I thought they would at least meet in the final.”

“This is going to be exciting! Who do you think will win?”

“Frost Moon Sword Immortal, for sure!”

“Nonsense! It’s definitely Silk-Robe Fairy!”

…

Chen Yin looked at the almost frenzied crowd and couldn’t help but smack his lips. “Wow, no matter where you go, passionate fans are quite scary.”

“Who does Senior Brother think will win?”

“Ahem, well…”

Chen Yin chuckled awkwardly.

On one hand, there was his Senior Sister from his own sect. On the other hand, there was Silk-Robe Fairy, with whom he had shared an ambiguous night.

It seemed like he couldn’t support either side without causing trouble.

“Uh… I don’t really care who wins.”

He suddenly said seriously, “I just hope that this ultimate battle between the two most renowned fairies of the younger generation won’t disappoint everyone’s expectations.”

“I hope they’ll fight with all their strength, showcasing their skills and grace, upholding the spirit of pushing their limits and never giving up until the very end.”

“It would be best if they end up like those two female cultivators I saw the other day, fighting until they exhaust their spiritual energy and resort to tearing each other’s clothes and hair, wrestling on the stage… Hehe, hehehe… I love watching women fight…”

Seeing Chen Yin’s increasingly lewd smile, Xiang’er rolled her eyes and glared at him playfully.

But then, she suddenly exclaimed, as if remembering something:

“Oh no! I forgot! I pre-ordered some new rouge from a shop down the mountain. It’s going on sale this afternoon! If I don’t hurry, it’ll be sold out.”

“Senior Brother, you watch the matches first. I’ll go get the rouge and be back soon.”

Without waiting for Chen Yin to respond, she ran off.

Chen Yin: “…”

…This girl, she can’t even be bothered to come up with a decent excuse to avoid me anymore?

Anyway, the female cultivator Xiang’er was facing was clearly much weaker than her, so Chen Yin wasn’t too worried.

As for the highly anticipated battle between the two fairies, he was quite interested, just like everyone else.

The Mist Spirit Sect and the Heavenly Net Sect were both prominent righteous sects, renowned throughout the cultivation world. Unlike the Mist Spirit Sect, the current leaders of the Heavenly Net Sect were a married couple, a famous and beloved pair in the cultivation world.

Luo Qiaoqiao was their daughter.

Unlike Shen Shuanglian, most of what Chen Yin knew about Luo Qiaoqiao came from rumors and hearsay. He knew that she was breathtakingly beautiful, exceptionally talented, and the cherished daughter of the Heavenly Net Sect’s leaders.

Shen Shuanglian, on the other hand, had risen to prominence through her own talent and hard work, becoming the most talented cultivator the Mist Spirit Sect had seen in a thousand years.

In terms of cultivation and achievements, the two women were evenly matched, neither inferior to the other.

Compared to them, all the other female cultivators in the entire conference seemed like mere supporting characters.

…If not for the unexpected appearance of “Yin Mengwan.”

The semi-finals soon began, and Chen Yin, wanting to join the excitement, found a spot in the crowded stands near the stage where the two fairies were about to clash.

As time passed, the two contestants were about to enter the stage. Chen Yin finally saw the two fairies, surrounded by their respective sect members.

Luo Qiaoqiao was still wearing her eye-catching bright red dress, but with light makeup, her already stunning beauty was even more captivating.

Shen Shuanglian, as usual, was dressed simply. But this time, she wasn’t wearing the Mist Spirit Sect’s robes.

…She was wearing the dress Chen Yin had chosen for her.

An elegant light blue palace dress.

In this dress, Shen Shuanglian’s aura was even colder and more ethereal, like a fairy from the moon palace.

Chen Yin watched the two fairies from the stands, his gaze constantly shifting between them, as if comparing their features in his mind.

Just as he was enjoying the view, the two women on the stage seemed to sense his gaze and turned to look in his direction at the same time.

Luo Qiaoqiao smiled brightly at Chen Yin from the stage and even waved at him enthusiastically.

Shen Shuanglian’s eyes widened slightly. She nodded subtly, then quickly averted her gaze, as if avoiding eye contact with him.

Chen Yin didn’t know who to respond to and could only grin awkwardly at both of them.

…This is bad.

Why does this match feel a little off?

Chapter 24: The Clear Starry River

Back in their room, Chen Yin asked Xiang’er if she wanted to return to Mount Yu since her match was over. However, Xiang’er insisted on staying until the end, saying that since they were already there, they might as well see it through.

Chen Yin didn’t press the issue. He knew what she was up to.

That night, Chen Yin sat in his room, reading an ancient book by candlelight.

After a while, the window seemed to creak open as if blown by the wind, and a fluffy fox tail flashed past.

“You’re back?” Chen Yin asked without looking up. “How did it go?”

“Young Master, that guy was telling the truth.”

Luo Luo landed gracefully in the room and plopped onto Chen Yin’s bed, crossing her legs. “There really is a demonic branch altar in Fragrance City.”

“But it seems even more hidden than the one in Flowing Cloud City. I didn’t see anyone there, but there were a lot of message jades.”

…Just as that demonic underling, Wang Wei, had said.

Since Fragrance City was located at the foot of the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion’s main branch, it would be too risky to be conspicuous.

Therefore, most of the demonic cultivators in Fragrance City avoided meeting in person and relied mainly on message jades and transmission stones for communication.

“This makes things easier for me.” Chen Yin muttered to himself.

However, he would have to wait until the Fairy Conference was over before taking action.

“Good work.”

Chen Yin continued reading without looking up. “There are pastries on the table I bought specifically for you. They’re from the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion, a special treat.”

Luo Luo immediately pounced on the pastries with a cheer, stuffing her cheeks.

Chen Yin continued reading.

Outside the window, the starry river was clear and bright, and a cool breeze blew past the candle, making the flame flicker.

With her cheeks bulging from the pastries, Luo Luo walked over to Chen Yin, wagging her tail, and asked:

“Young Master, what are you reading?”

“Records of the “Cultivation World” I bought from the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion.”

Chen Yin said softly, “It contains some strange and interesting stories from the history of the cultivation world. It’s quite fascinating.”

Of course, that wasn’t the main reason.

The main reason was to see if he could find anything related to “Changli Palace.”

Luo Luo let out a soft “oh” and sat down obediently, no longer disturbing him.

The room fell silent, only the soft sound of the wind and the rustling of pages could be heard.

Luo Luo couldn’t help but steal glances at Chen Yin’s face.

Under the candlelight, Chen Yin’s profile as he read was serious and focused. His long eyelashes fluttered slightly, and his brow was furrowed in thought.

Luo Luo tilted her head and stared at his face.

It was as if she had only just realized how handsome Young Master’s profile was.

Noticing Luo Luo’s gaze, Chen Yin turned to her curiously and asked, “What’s wrong?”

“Is there something on my face?”

“Nothing, hehe.”

Luo Luo grinned cheerfully.

Chen Yin was even more puzzled. He looked at the table. “Are you still hungry? I can buy you some more snacks.”

“No, the pastries Young Master bought are delicious! I’m full.”

“Then…” Chen Yin lowered his head. “Do you want to read too?”

Luo Luo froze, about to say no, when Chen Yin suddenly stood up. “Why didn’t you say so?”

The next moment, he scooped Luo Luo up by her arms and settled her onto his lap.

Luo Luo’s youthful face instantly flushed crimson in the candlelight.

“If you want to read, let’s read together. This book is quite interesting,” Chen Yin said matter-of-factly.

Luo Luo was truly petite. Even compared to a normal girl of fourteen or fifteen, she was even smaller, making her feel like a large, cuddly cushion in Chen Yin’s arms. Her fluffy fox tail, especially, curled up behind her and pressed against his chest, radiating warmth and softness.

Holding Luo Luo like this, Chen Yin found it rather comfortable. He couldn’t resist gently stroking her head before returning his attention to the book. Luo Luo, on the other hand, lowered her head slightly, her hands awkwardly straightening her posture as her breathing became a little erratic.

Time, already flowing slowly, seemed to slow down even further.

The book recounted many significant events in the cultivation world: the rise and fall of prominent sects, the legendary tales of powerful cultivators, and the stories of their decline and even destruction. It was all incredibly captivating.

However, Luo Luo couldn’t bring herself to focus on the stories within the book.

She was acutely aware of the broad and sturdy chest behind her, radiating a sense of inexplicable comfort and security.

And the gentle hand stroking her hair.

Luo Luo closed her eyes in contentment, savoring the feeling.

She had instantly fallen in love with this sensation.

It was like lying on a soft, sun-drenched lawn on a summer afternoon.

Chen Yin seemed to notice her expression and whispered in her ear, “What’s wrong? Are you uncomfortable sitting like this?”

“N-no,” Luo Luo replied, her ears drooping slightly as she averted her gaze. “It’s just that sitting in Young Master’s lap while reading is so comfortable, I almost fell asleep…”

Chen Yin chuckled. “If you’re sleepy, go to sleep.”

“I’m planning to stay up all night reading, so you can sleep in my bed.”

Luo Luo nodded obediently, took off her shoes, and climbed onto the bed, her bare feet padding softly on the sheets.

The bed carried a comforting scent. Luo Luo snuggled into the pillow, then peeked out from under the covers, her eyes fixed on Chen Yin.

Chen Yin’s focused profile as he read seemed to have a strange allure, drawing Luo Luo’s gaze again and again.

After watching him for a while, sleepiness finally overcame her, and she drifted off to sleep.

Chen Yin continued reading. At some point, soft breathing sounds reached his ears from behind. He turned and saw that the little fox was sleeping restlessly, her blanket kicked aside.

Sighing softly, he walked over and tucked her back in, gently stroking her pretty, youthful face.

“You’ve worked hard these past few days,” he said in a gentle voice.

Finding suspicious individuals among the large crowd attending the Fairy Conference was a difficult task for Chen Yin alone. For the past two days, Luo Luo had been diligently positioning herself in advance, concealing herself in the void to observe everyone, and reporting any suspicious activity to Chen Yin. This was how he was able to catch that demonic underling.

Having her scout for him and search for the demonic branch altar down in the city, Chen Yin couldn’t help but feel a twinge of guilt.

In his previous life, this would be considered child labor, punishable by law.

To compensate, Chen Yin spent a considerable amount of spirit stones, buying Luo Luo a variety of delicious pastries and snacks from the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion.

…After spending this time together, Chen Yin’s fondness for the little fox had grown.

Initially, he was worried that the silly and naive little fox would cause trouble. But along the way, she had proven to be surprisingly reliable, diligently carrying out his instructions and completing every task flawlessly.

He wondered if it was because of the master-servant contract.

But the contract wasn’t permanent. Chen Yin had initially planned to release Luo Luo from the contract and grant her freedom once Xiang’er’s affairs were settled.

Now, however, he felt a twinge of reluctance.

“Such a cute and useful little fox… maybe I should keep her by my side?”

But then he shook his head self-deprecatingly. “Why think so far ahead? Xiang’er’s situation is far from resolved.”

It’s tough, but I’ll have to ask you to bear with me for a while longer.

In her sleep, Luo Luo’s little nose twitched slightly, and she mumbled something adorable in her sleep.

Chen Yin chuckled softly and returned to his desk, resuming his reading.

After flipping through a few pages, he suddenly let out a surprised sound.

“Changli Palace… it actually exists.”

Chen Yin read carefully: “Changli Palace, a sect of the Dao Origin lineage, was destroyed when its sect master went mad during cultivation.”

“…That’s it?”

That was all there was, just a single sentence briefly mentioning the destruction of an entire sect.

Chen Yin fell into deep thought.

The fall of Changli Palace was a major incident. It shouldn’t have been brushed aside so casually.

However, this book, which recorded strange and interesting events in the cultivation world, didn’t mention any details, which gave Chen Yin a sudden realization.

“It seems… there’s more to Changli Palace than meets the eye.”

“I need to find a way to gather more information… I’ll probably have to wait until the Fairy Conference is over.”

He flipped through the book a few more times but couldn’t find any other information about Changli Palace. He closed the book and blew out the candle.

Before dawn broke, Chen Yin left the room, taking advantage of the last traces of darkness.

***

Luo Luo woke up to the sun already high in the sky.

She rubbed her sleepy eyes and climbed out of bed.

On the table, she found a basket of steamed buns, some pastries, a few spirit stones, and some silver. Beside them was a note:

“Taking a day off for you today. Buy whatever you want, eat whatever you like.”

“But be careful, don’t get tricked again.”

Luo Luo read the note over and over, a smile slowly spreading across her face.

“Silly Young Master,” she murmured.

“Luo Luo isn’t just a gluttonous fox.”

Putting the note away, she sat at the table, picked up a warm steamed bun, and began to eat contentedly.

***

After buying breakfast for Luo Luo, Chen Yin went to Xiang’er’s room.

He knocked several times but received no answer. Entering the room, he found a note that read: “Silly Senior Brother, you woke up too late. I went to watch the matches first.”

…This girl, she couldn’t even come up with a better excuse to avoid me. What’s with this constant implication that I can’t get out of bed? Chen Yin sighed lightly.

He returned to the arena of the Fairy Conference. After a day of eliminations, the number of participants had been significantly reduced. On the other hand, the betting booth where he had placed his wager was drawing in a larger crowd than before.

“Hey! Come one, come all, place your bets! A fresh dark horse has emerged!”

As Chen Yin approached, the young man recognized him and greeted him enthusiastically. “Oh, it’s you again, young man!”

“You have a great eye! That female cultivator named Yin Mengwan is a hidden master!”

“Based on our estimations, she might be close to the Boundless Realm! This could add some suspense to the Fairy Conference championship!”

Chen Yin ignored him and glanced at the match results board.

Yin Mengwan’s column was filled with checkmarks.

Undefeated.

Chapter 23: It’s Simply That I Can’t Bear to See Him Suffer

The Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion truly lived up to its reputation as the largest merchant organization in the cultivation world.

From clothing and cultivation techniques to weapons and magical treasures, you could find almost anything you wanted here as long as you had the money to buy it.

The last time Luo Qiaoqiao dragged him in, they only explored a small corner of the main pavilion. In reality, the main pavilion of the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion was so vast that it would take days, if not nights, to explore it fully.

From the outside, it appeared to be a magnificent and luxurious building, but inside, it was a different world altogether.

As soon as Chen Yin and Xiang’er stepped inside, they were greeted by an enthusiastic attendant. Upon learning that they were looking for clothes, the attendant led them to the clothing section.

Xiang’er’s eyes lit up at the sight of the dazzling array of beautiful clothes.

“Wow! This dress!”

She ran to a blue and white corseted dress, picked it up, and held it against her body, turning to Chen Yin with a playful question:

“Senior Brother, does it look good?”

The dress had a unique design. Compared to traditional long dresses, the skirt was extremely short and had a textured pattern. If Chen Yin had to describe it, it resembled a pleated skirt.

Chen Yin shamelessly wiped a drool from the corner of his mouth and gave her a thumbs up. “I love it.”

“But isn’t the skirt too short?” Xiang’er hesitated, lowering her head. “It feels… a little embarrassing.”

“That’s the point. If the skirt wasn’t short, how would I see your beautiful legs?”

Yu Xiang glared at him playfully.

Chen Yin laughed awkwardly.

Yu Xiang stared at the dress for a while longer, then leaned close to Chen Yin’s ear and whispered:

“But… I can wear it for you back at the inn.”

She winked playfully.

Chen Yin’s heart skipped a beat.

“This one looks good too, and this one… Which one should I choose?”

After browsing for a while, she picked up a dress and went into the fitting room.

While Xiang’er was trying on clothes, Chen Yin aimlessly scanned the surroundings.

Suddenly, his gaze stopped.

Not far away, an area seemed to be automatically cordoned off, as if people were instinctively avoiding it.

A woman in a light blue dress, with a cold and ethereal aura, was browsing through the clothes racks. Her presence was so strong that no one dared to approach her.

…Senior Sister? Chen Yin was intrigued.

It seemed that even a cold and aloof fairy like Shen Shuanglian, who kept everyone at arm’s length, enjoyed shopping for clothes.

But seeing her shopping alone, looking so lonely, made him feel a bit sorry for her.

After hesitating for a moment, Chen Yin walked over and greeted her with a bow. “Senior Sister.”

“Ch-Chen Yin?”

Shen Shuanglian’s eyes flickered with surprise when she saw him. After a moment, she lowered her voice and said, “Wh-why are you here?”

“I’m accompanying my Junior Sister to buy clothes.”

Chen Yin smiled frankly. “What about Senior Sister? Are you shopping alone?”

A faint sadness flashed in Shen Shuanglian’s eyes, and she stammered, “My Junior Sisters… are all busy preparing for the conference, so I came out by myself.”

…That’s a lie.

It seemed that although Senior Sister was popular and highly respected, she wasn’t very good at handling interpersonal relationships.

Unlike Luo Qiaoqiao, who was not only famous but also adored by many disciples within her sect, living a carefree life.

Shen Shuanglian glanced at the space behind Chen Yin and asked casually:

“Where’s… your Junior Sister?”

“She’s in the fitting room trying on clothes. I’ll bring her over to meet you later.”

“I see.” She murmured, her clear eyes lost in thought.

It was unclear what she was thinking about.

Seeing the awkward silence, Chen Yin changed the subject. “Are you looking for clothes too, Senior Sister? Have you found anything you like?”

“Not yet…”

She lowered her head shyly. “I-I’m not very good at picking clothes.”

“I just wanted to relax and browse a little.”

Chen Yin pondered for a moment and picked up a light blue palace dress. “What do you think of this one, Senior Sister?”

“It’s elegant without being too plain, refined yet charmingly graceful. It should suit your temperament well.”

As he enthusiastically recommended the dress, he didn’t notice that Shen Shuanglian was staring at him intently.

“What do you think? Do you like it, Senior Sister?”

“…Do you like me wearing this?”

Chen Yin: “…?”

Shen Shuanglian seemed to realize the ambiguity of her words and quickly lowered her head, blushing.

“I-I mean… Thank you for recommending this dress. I-I also think it’s very beautiful.”

Seeing Senior Sister’s shy and embarrassed expression, Chen Yin couldn’t help but chuckle.

…It turned out that his ice-cold Senior Sister wasn’t as aloof as he had imagined.

She was actually quite cute in her awkwardness.

“I’m glad you like it, Senior Sister.”

Chen Yin scratched his head. “To be honest, I’m not very good at picking clothes for girls either. I don’t have much experience.”

“I hope you don’t mind my straight-guy taste.”

Shen Shuanglian shook her head. “No, I… I really like this dress.”

For some reason, after saying those words, both of them lowered their heads shyly.

Chen Yin found it strange.

Did his Senior Sister have some kind of strange magic or aura? Why did the atmosphere always become awkward and stilted whenever he talked to her?

Especially him, a seasoned flirt and smooth talker, who couldn’t even come up with a single cheesy pick-up line in front of the elegant Shen Shuanglian. He felt an unexpected sense of awkwardness.

Chen Yin couldn’t understand. He should have long outgrown the awkwardness and innocence of first love from his student days. Why did he feel so uncomfortable around his Senior Sister?

He coughed lightly to break the awkward silence and said softly, “Then I won’t disturb you any longer, Senior Sister. I’ll just—”

“You’re not disturbing me.”

Shen Shuanglian looked at him seriously.

…No, I’m just trying to find an excuse to leave. Can’t you tell, Senior Sister? Did you put all your skill points into cultivation and neglect your emotional intelligence?

Chen Yin was caught in a dilemma, but Shen Shuanglian seemed determined to play dumb and wouldn’t let him go.

At that moment, Xiang’er’s cheerful voice came from behind:

“Senior Brother, look, does this look good—”

Chen Yin turned around and saw that Xiang’er, who had been excited just moments ago, suddenly froze when she saw Shen Shuanglian. Her expression changed subtly.

“Ah, Xiang’er, you’re just in time.”

Chen Yin felt like he had been granted a reprieve. He walked over and took Xiang’er’s hand. “You haven’t met her yet, have you? Let me introduce you.”

“This is our Senior Sister from the main sect, the famous Frost Moon Sword Immortal, Shen Shuanglian.”

“Senior Sister, this is my Junior Sister, Yu Xiang.”

After the introductions, Chen Yin realized that neither of them was looking at him. They were both staring at each other.

The strange look in Yu Xiang’s eyes only lasted for a moment. She quickly extended her hand gracefully.

“Nice to meet you, Senior Sister.”

Shen Shuanglian hesitated for a moment, then gently shook her hand. “…Nice to meet you too.”

It was a peaceful handshake, as if nothing had happened.

They let go immediately, and Xiang’er turned back to Chen Yin with a bright smile. “Senior Brother, you haven’t told me if this dress looks good on me.”

“Of course it looks good.”

Chen Yin patted her head dotingly.

Shen Shuanglian was silent for a moment, then bit her lip slightly and said softly:

“You two siblings are rarely able to travel together. I won’t disturb you any longer.”

She turned to the attendant and said quietly, “Please wrap this dress for me.”

She was pointing at the dress Chen Yin had recommended earlier.

After the dress was wrapped, Shen Shuanglian turned to look at Chen Yin one last time before leaving.

Her clear and bright eyes seemed to hold many unspoken words.

But before Chen Yin could decipher them, she had already turned and left.

“Hey, why are you still spacing out?”

Xiang’er’s disgruntled voice snapped him out of his thoughts. “She’s already gone, and you’re still staring at her back like a lovesick fool.”

“Stinky Senior Brother. You’re clearly up to no good.”

Chen Yin coughed lightly and explained seriously, “No, I just thought Senior Sister was shopping alone, so I wanted to say hello. I had no disrespectful intentions.”

“Really? No ulterior motives at all?”

“Really… none at all.”

Seeing the doubt in Chen Yin’s eyes, Yu Xiang pouted with disdain and turned her head away with a huff.

“Men are all pigs.”

Chen Yin couldn’t argue and could only keep his mouth shut.

***

After leaving the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion, Shen Shuanglian paused and looked back wistfully.

Her eyes were still cold and calm, as if she was lost in thought.

After a moment, she asked softly:

“That girl… is she the one?”

The System’s voice echoed in her mind: “According to the plot records, there’s no doubt about it.”

Shen Shuanglian didn’t say anything more, a hint of worry in her brows.

“Are you still worried about that man’s safety?”

“Hmm…” Shen Shuanglian lowered her head silently. “That girl is still too dangerous.”

“It’s a pity he didn’t accept my invitation. If he had come to the main sect, I wouldn’t have to worry so much.”

If he had gone to the main sect, under her watchful eyes, she would have enough time to protect him, no matter what happened in the next five years.

The System sighed. “Why bother? Is this guy really that important to you?”

“I’ve asked you several times, but you won’t tell me. What’s your relationship with him?”

Shen Shuanglian stared blankly for a while, then closed her eyes tightly.

“…Don’t ask.”

“You promised me. As long as it doesn’t affect the plot records, I can handle his matters myself.”

“I don’t really care about the plot records.” The System shook its head. “I’m just curious, is it really worth it for you to go to such lengths for him, silently sacrificing so much?”

“I doubt he’ll ever reciprocate your feelings or appreciate what you’ve done.”

“He might even… forget that you ever existed in his life after five years.”

Shen Shuanglian lowered her eyes and murmured as if to herself:

“It doesn’t matter.”

“Whether it’s worth it or not, what does it matter?”

It’s simply… that I can’t bear to see him suffer.

Chapter 22: Secrets, Hehe

Soon, the matches on the various stages began.

Xiang’er’s match wasn’t scheduled for a while. Using the excuse of wanting to mentally prepare, she slipped away.

Chen Yin, of course, knew that she was going to participate in the competition first as Yin Mengwan.

Coincidentally, Yin Mengwan’s match was taking place on a stage not far from where Chen Yin had placed his bet. So he went over to that stage and waited.

A large crowd had gathered around the stage, mostly fellow disciples and supporters of Zhang Qing, the female cultivator from the Profound Cloud Sect.

Chen Yin observed them quietly, saying nothing.

Not long after, the young man who had taken his bet at the stall came over and sat down next to Chen Yin, making him curious:

“Hey? What are you doing here? Don’t you have to watch the betting booth?”

“I’m on break until the afternoon.” The young man smiled. “Seeing you place that bet got me a little interested, so I came to watch the fun.”

“By the way, do you really think that girl named Yin Mengwan can win?”

“Who knows?” Chen Yin shrugged.

“Sometimes, when luck is on your side, you can’t refuse money even if you tried.”

As they chatted, the two participants had already entered the stage.

Zhang Qing, though not exceptionally beautiful, was still quite pretty and charming. Judging by the cheers from the audience, she was clearly a popular flower in her sect.

In contrast, “Yin Mengwan,” dressed in plain black clothes and her face concealed by a veil, seemed much more mysterious.

After they took their positions, Zhang Qing muttered, “Changli Palace… never heard of that sect.”

“If you surrender now, you can avoid unnecessary injuries.”

Yu Xiang simply replied coldly, “Too noisy.”

Zhang Qing was instantly enraged and charged at her with her sword.

Yu Xiang merely raised her hand and clenched her fist in the air. A wave of overwhelming spiritual energy, as tangible as a physical force, pressed down on Zhang Qing, immobilizing her. It felt as if she was being choked, lifted off the ground, and left helplessly struggling in mid-air, her face turning red.

The next moment, she was tossed off the stage like a piece of trash.

Silence fell over the entire audience.

The Profound Cloud Sect disciples stared blankly for a long time before rushing to check on their Senior Sister. The referee also stood frozen for a while before finally announcing the victory.

From beginning to end, Yu Xiang hadn’t said a word. After her victory was declared, she immediately turned and left, vanishing without a trace.

The young man’s eyes widened in disbelief. After a long while, he swallowed hard and turned to Chen Yin with a stunned expression.

“Holy crap… You really struck gold! That girl in black is a true master!”

“How strong is she? I’m just a low-level cultivator, but I could barely breathe under her pressure. I can’t even tell what level she’s at.”

“1:12 odds, you’re going to be rich!”

“Just lucky, just lucky.” Chen Yin laughed, his eyes flickering imperceptibly. He turned and said casually, “I have something to do, I’ll be going now. Remember to put my winnings on my tab.”

Then, he swiftly left the stands.

***

As Yu Xiang secured her first victory as “Yin Mengwan,” an inconspicuous figure quietly slipped away from the crowd.

The man hurriedly avoided the crowded areas and was about to enter a secluded path.

“Hey, hey, hey! Wait a minute, brother!”

The man turned to see Chen Yin approaching him with a friendly smile, his arm casually draped over his shoulder, acting like they were old friends.

“Judging by your impressive demeanor and bearing, you must be a prodigy from a prominent sect.”

“It’s fate that we’ve met. Are you interested in some… private photos of the participating fairies?”

Chen Yin put on a sleazy expression, like a street vendor selling illicit goods. He chuckled, “I have a lot of good stuff, guaranteed to satisfy you.”

The man seemed taken aback and waved his hand dismissively. “No, I’m not interested in that stuff, leave me alone!”

“Hey, don’t be so quick to refuse, brother. Let me show you a couple of samples, I’m sure you’ll change your mind.”

He led the man towards a deserted area while keeping his arm around him.

“Cut the crap! I said I’m not interested, who the hell are you? Do you want to get beaten up?”

The man was clearly getting impatient, his tone turning hostile.

“Hey, brother, don’t be so angry. The price is negotiable.”

Chen Yin said with a smile, “If you think it’s too expensive, I can give you a friend discount.”

“…How about you pay with your life?” His voice suddenly turned cold.

The man’s eyes widened in horror. He suddenly realized that his dantian and meridians were sealed by an invisible sword energy. As long as the person in front of him willed it, he would die before he could even make a sound.

He was about to resist when Chen Yin’s cold voice rang out, “Don’t move if you don’t want to die.”

“Answer my questions. Don’t say anything else.”

The man nodded hastily.

“Name.”

“W-Wang Wei.”

“Age.”

“Thirty-one.”

“Gender.”

“…Do you even need to ask?”

Chen Yin said impassively, “If you don’t answer properly, I can change your answer right now.”

Wang Wei quickly crossed his legs and stammered, “M-male.”

“Sexual orientation.”

“?”

“Fetishes.”

“???”

After being bombarded with a series of bizarre and embarrassing questions, Wang Wei’s mind was in a daze.

Who the hell was this guy? He had restrained him without warning and was asking all sorts of strange questions.

He had heard rumors of rogue cultivators with peculiar tastes for the same sex… could he be so unlucky to have encountered one today?

As he was trying to figure out how to protect his rear end, Chen Yin casually asked:

“Which branch altar is your superior from?”

Wang Wei’s pupils constricted.

“I… I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“It’s okay. I can help you remember.”

Chen Yin reached out and pressed a finger against the back of his neck. The next moment, Wang Wei’s eyes bulged as if they were about to pop out.

“Ugh!”

“You have one more chance. Next time, it won’t be the nerves in your spine that get crushed, but your head.”

Wang Wei nodded frantically, his eyes filled with terror and fear.

“I-it’s the Fragrance City branch altar.”

“There’s a demonic branch altar in Fragrance City? Where is it?”

“In the well in the backyard of Elegant Pavilion on East Street.”

Chen Yin turned his head and nodded slightly towards the void, then continued asking:

“You seem to be in a hurry. Did you discover something that you need to report?”

“Is it about your Holy Maiden, Yin Mengwan?” he asked directly.

Seeing that the other party seemed to know everything, Wang Wei didn’t dare to hide anything and said tremblingly: “…Yes.”

“The sect has ordered that any sightings of the Holy Maiden be reported immediately.”

Chen Yin pondered for a moment and continued asking, “What’s your communication tool?”

“Here.” Wang Wei handed over a transmission stone with trembling hands.

Chen Yin took the stone, looked around to make sure no one was paying attention, and then led Wang Wei to a spot between some artificial rocks.

After spending an hour asking all the questions he wanted, he emerged from behind the rocks alone.

…He was just a small fry, he didn’t know much.

But it was enough for him.

So, he stretched lazily, put on his usual carefree expression, tucked his hands into his sleeves, and sauntered away.

—

Yu Xiang changed back into her own clothes and waited in front of the stage where her match was about to take place.

She glanced around from time to time.

After an unknown amount of time, someone patted her shoulder. Xiang’er looked up and saw Chen Yin’s smiling face.

“Honestly, you’re late, stinky Senior Brother.”

Xiang’er wrinkled her nose with dissatisfaction. “Where did you go?”

“Well, there were two female cultivators fighting fiercely over there. I heard that in the end, they both ran out of spiritual energy and ended up wrestling with each other, their clothes all torn.”

Chen Yin said with a look of amazement, “I’ve never seen such a fierce fight between women… I mean, cultivators. I had to go check it out.”

Seeing the disapproval and resentment building up in Xiang’er’s eyes, Chen Yin coughed awkwardly and said softly:

“Hey, look, I’m here now. Of course, I wouldn’t miss Xiang’er’s match.”

“Go for it! Beat your opponent!” Chen Yin gave her a thumbs-up encouragingly.

Xiang’er pouted and rolled her eyes at him, but even her eye-roll had a certain charm and playfulness.

“Well… you have to cheer for me from the audience, Senior Brother.”

“Of course, I’ll cheer louder than everyone else combined.”

“You don’t have to go that far… It’s embarrassing.”

Yu Xiang took a couple of steps toward the stage, then turned and gave Chen Yin a sweet smile.

“Then, Senior Brother, I’m going up.”

Chen Yin nodded with a smile.

Watching Xiang’er skip onto the stage, Chen Yin smiled with pride.

“Our Xiang’er is so cute.”

—

A while later, Yu Xiang walked back down, dejected.

“Wuu… I lost right away…” She pouted sadly, her eyes watery, on the verge of tears.

“What are you talking about?”

Chen Yin puffed out his chest and said seriously, “Our Xiang’er was like a celestial being, completely dominating your opponent, leaving them with no chance to fight back.”

“If they hadn’t resorted to a sneak attack, our Xiang’er wouldn’t have lost.”

Seeing that Xiang’er was still downcast, Chen Yin patted her head comfortingly.

“It’s okay. Don’t be sad. Senior Brother will take you shopping for clothes. It’s a reward for our Xiang’er.”

“Really?” Yu Xiang’s eyes lit up.

“Of course it’s real.”

“Yay!” She cheered softly. “Senior Brother is the best!”

Seeing her excitement, Chen Yin chuckled and didn’t say anything more.

“But the clothes at the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion are so expensive. How did Senior Brother suddenly become so rich?”

“Well… that’s a secret. Hehe.”

Chapter 21: They’re All the Same in the Dark

The night before the competition, participants were allowed to stay overnight at the manor.

Since her return to the inn, Xiang’er had been acting strangely. When asked what was wrong, she wouldn’t say, only muttering “tired, want to rest” before retreating to her room.

Chen Yin knew she was still sulking.

Back in his room, Chen Yin listened to Luo Luo’s account of the day’s events, lost in thought.

“Changli Palace… Yin Mengwan…”

He had no recollection of this sect. It was clearly not a prominent one, and he had no idea what had happened to it.

But since Xiang’er had chosen this sect and name, it couldn’t be a random fabrication.

He made a mental note to inquire about it if the opportunity arose.

“Right now, the most important thing is tomorrow’s preliminary round at the Fairy Conference.”

Chen Yin whispered a few instructions to Luo Luo. She nodded, then vanished into the void.

After a moment of hesitation, Chen Yin got up and slipped out under the cover of night.

He walked to Xiang’er’s door and knocked gently.

“Xiang’er, are you asleep?”

“…Yes.”

“I’m coming in.”

“I said I’m asleep, why are you still coming in, stinky Senior Brother?!”

“Because Xiang’er is asleep, that’s why Senior Brother is coming in for a night raid.”

A moment later, the door creaked open, revealing Xiang’er standing at the entrance, dressed in a thin white silk nightgown, her head lowered.

“What do you want?” She tried her best to sound indifferent.

But Chen Yin could still hear the underlying hint of grievance in her voice.

“Tomorrow is your first match, Xiang’er. Senior Brother is worried you might not be able to sleep, so I came to warm your bed.”

“No. You’ll just make my bed smell.”

“…Don’t be ridiculous, I bathe every day.”

Chen Yin looked around. “Want to go for a walk? It’s good to relax before a big test.”

Xiang’er’s eyes flickered with interest, but she still turned her head away.

“I don’t need your concern.”

“You’re my dearest Junior Sister, who else would I care about if not you?”

“There are so many beautiful girls out there, and I can’t compare to them. Why care about me?”

“Maybe Xiang’er is just lucky to have met a man with such discerning eyes like Senior Brother.”

Chen Yin said with a chuckle, “I’ve been planning to make Xiang’er my wife since we were little.”

Yu Xiang’s breath hitched, and a blush crept onto her cheeks under the moonlight.

“I-I told you, I don’t want to be your wife.”

“Then I might have to resort to force.”

“Bah. Bad Senior Brother, you pervert, shameless.”

“Ah! That’s it! I love it! Say it again, Xiang’er.”

Yu Xiang stomped her foot in frustration and walked out on her own. Chen Yin smiled to himself and followed her.

The night was cool and refreshing. Their shadows stretched along the corridor, connected from one end to the other.

Xiang’er walked with her hands behind her back, lightly stepping on the shadows cast by the corridor pillars, a troubled expression on her face.

Chen Yin, unusually, didn’t tease her but simply walked beside her in silence.

“…Why does Senior Brother always care so much about me? I can take care of myself.”

“Really?”

“Of course. I’m not a child anymore.” Yu Xiang pouted.

Chen Yin shook his head. “I don’t believe you.”

“Unless you let me touch you.”

“No! Way!”

Xiang’er stomped on his foot angrily. Chen Yin just grinned and remained silent.

“But I can’t help but worry about you.”

“Why?”

“Because you’re silly.” Chen Yin said seriously.

Yu Xiang puffed up her cheeks, indignant. “I’m not silly!”

“If you weren’t silly, you wouldn’t keep so many things bottled up inside, refusing to tell Senior Brother, and trying to deal with everything on your own.”

Xiang’er stopped walking. She looked down at the pebbled path beneath her feet.

“If you weren’t silly, you would know that the purpose of a Senior Brother is to help and care for his Junior Sister.”

He said calmly, “You refuse to tell me anything. Either I’m truly that annoying, and you dislike me.”

“Or, you’re a hopeless fool.”

Yu Xiang turned her back to him, biting her lip to stop herself from making a sound.

“But I guess I’m just unlucky to have such a silly Junior Sister.”

Chen Yin sighed softly. “As a Junior Sister, you can be willful, act spoiled, and throw tantrums at your Senior Brother.”

“But since I’m the Senior Brother, no matter how much you throw tantrums or how unhappy you are…”

“I have to coax you.”

Treat her like a treasure. Hold her in his palm.

He couldn’t bear to see her suffer even a little bit.

“There’s nothing I can do, you’re my only Junior Sister.” Chen Yin smiled helplessly.

Yu Xiang opened her mouth slightly, then quickly covered it with her hand.

…She almost couldn’t hold back.

Almost blurted out everything she wanted to say.

Almost wanted to throw away the System and its missions, and be his little Junior Sister forever.

But in the end, she held back.

She didn’t say anything. She just turned around, her eyes red, and hugged him gently.

“Senior Brother, I…” she said, her voice choked with tears.

Chen Yin shook his head. “I won’t force you.”

“Like I said, whenever you’re ready to talk, I’m always willing to listen.”

Yu Xiang nodded slightly, then rested her head against his chest.

Chen Yin didn’t speak, just wrapped his arms around her slender waist.

They hugged for a long time. Yu Xiang suddenly blushed and whispered:

“Senior Brother… don’t be naughty.”

“Cough. It’s a normal reaction.” Chen Yin’s expression remained unchanged, his thick skin unfazed.

Xiang’er looked up at him shyly, her eyes sparkling.

“The atmosphere is so nice… Senior Brother, don’t ruin it.”

“Then, what’s this atmosphere suitable for?”

“Hmm… Senior Brother, close your eyes.”

“Again? It’s not the first time. It’s already dark at night—”

“Close them!” Xiang’er’s tone was laced with a playful demand.

Chen Yin had no choice but to close his eyes.

Yu Xiang stared at Chen Yin’s peaceful face for a moment, lost in thought.

Then she closed her eyes as well, stood on tiptoe, and pressed her lips against his.

…Closing our eyes is like turning off the lights of the world.

In the darkness, we are free.

We can do what we want, love who we love, without restraint.

Because when we open our eyes and turn the lights back on, the world will continue its hustle and bustle.

No one will remember what happened in the dark.

—-

The next day, Ten Thousand Cloud Mountain was decorated with lanterns and streamers, bustling with excitement.

The square in front of the martial arts stage was packed with participating fairies and spectators.

From the front row, a loud voice could be heard: “Hey! Place your bets, place your bets!”

“Hey, hey, hey, young man, interested in placing a bet?”

Chen Yin, his mind still replaying the softness of Xiang’er’s lips from the night before, was suddenly pulled by the arm by a young man at a stall.

Seeing his enthusiastic expression, Chen Yin hesitated for a moment and asked, “What are you betting on?”

“The outcome of the matches, of course.” The young man replied. “Looks like you’re new to this, young man.”

“You see, we have odds for all the matches, big or small. If you want to have some casual fun, you can bet on your acquaintances, Senior Sisters, or Junior Sisters. If you want to go big, I can recommend some favorites to win the championship.”

Hearing about the favorites, Chen Yin immediately became interested. “Tell me more.”

“Well, the biggest favorites to win are undoubtedly Frost Moon Sword Immortal Shen Shuanglian from the Mist Spirit Sect and Silk-Robe Fairy Luo Qiaoqiao from the Heavenly Net Sect.”

The young man explained with a knowing air, “In terms of beauty, they’re both breathtakingly stunning, words can’t even do them justice.”

“In terms of strength, they’re both chief disciples of prominent sects, exceptionally talented, and both have already reached the Boundless Realm.”

“The Boundless Realm! In any sect, that’s the level of a junior elder. Countless cultivators spend their entire lives trying to reach that level, and they’ve already achieved it at such a young age.”

“It’s practically guaranteed that they’ll meet in the final. It’s just a matter of which fairy will emerge victorious.”

Chen Yin thought back to the confrontation between the two women in the forest and couldn’t help but cough lightly.

“Indeed, indeed… Then the odds for those two must be very stable.”

“They’re basically guaranteed wins.” The young man explained. “But since it’s a sure thing, everyone is happy to place a small bet.”

“So, which one are you betting on, young man? You can also bet on your friends or relatives who are participating.”

Chen Yin casually glanced at the list of participants and saw Xiang’er’s opponent, who was just an ordinary female cultivator. The odds for both of them were about the same, indicating that no one was really paying attention to their match.

After casually placing two bets on Xiang’er, Chen Yin’s gaze inadvertently fell upon another name.

Changli Palace. Yin Mengwan.

Her opponent seemed to be a relatively well-known female cultivator in the cultivation world.

Perhaps because no one had heard of Changli Palace, the odds were surprisingly high, reaching a staggering 1:12.

Such exaggerated odds were usually only seen for favorites like Shen Shuanglian and Luo Qiaoqiao.

“Have you made your choice, young man?” The young man asked eagerly.

“Yes.”

Chen Yin pointed to the name. “I’ll bet on this one.”

“Wow, you’re really going for a high-risk, high-reward bet. But that Zhang Qing is the second Senior Sister of the Profound Cloud Sect, and her cultivation is quite impressive. As for this Yin Mengwan from Changli Palace… I’ve never heard of her.”

“Maybe she’s a reclusive master.” Chen Yin smiled silently.

“All in. I’m betting everything on Yin Mengwan to win.”

“What boldness! Alright, I’ve got it down.”

After placing his bet, Chen Yin walked away, taking a deep breath.

…1:12 odds.

If Xiang’er was really hiding something, he was about to make a fortune.

He had just spent 200 spirit stones yesterday, practically bankrupting himself.

Xiang’er, my lucky goddess. He imagined himself showering Xiang’er’s portrait with kisses.

My path to riches depends on you, my dear Junior Sister.

Chapter 20: What a Mess!

Meanwhile…

After leaving Chen Yin, Yu Xiang found a secluded spot and took out a mask from thin air.

This mask was a task item she had exchanged for using the System. It could seamlessly alter her appearance and aura without leaving a trace.

With the mask on, Yu Xiang’s previously sweet and gentle appearance instantly transformed into something cold and aloof.

She changed into a black outfit, donned a bamboo hat and a black veil, her entire persona becoming mysterious and alluring.

She walked back to the registration desk. The Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion staff member in charge of registration looked at Yu Xiang’s peculiar attire with surprise but still asked politely:

“Are you here to register for the conference, Fairy? Please state your name and sect.”

“Yin Mengwan,” she replied in a slightly cold voice. “My sect is Changli Palace.”

Changli Palace? The staff member froze.

The name sounded familiar.

It seemed that a few years ago, there was a major incident in the cultivation world related to this Changli Palace.

But he vaguely remembered that Changli Palace had been destroyed. Could there still be disciples who survived and carried on the lineage?

However, the registration requirements for the Fairy Conference weren’t very strict. Although Changli Palace wasn’t very famous, it was considered a righteous sect. So, the staff member registered her.

Unbeknownst to them, the little fox, hidden in the void, had witnessed everything.

“Changli Palace…” Luo Luo muttered to herself. “I need to find a chance to tell Young Master.”

Yu Xiang waited patiently for her registration to be processed. As she waited, her gaze inadvertently swept past the entrance of the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion’s main building.

Then, her eyes widened in shock.

She saw a familiar figure, looking helpless, being led into the pavilion by a beautiful woman in a fiery red dress.

***

At that moment, Chen Yin felt like he was sitting on pins and needles.

Luo Qiaoqiao seemed to be a VIP customer of the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion. As they browsed, a dedicated staff member accompanied them, offering recommendations. She seemed completely indifferent to the strange looks from the surrounding people, occasionally picking out jewelry and clothes, holding them up, and asking Chen Yin for his opinion with a charming smile.

Chen Yin had no interest in helping her choose. He just wanted to find a place to escape. So he could only rely on his vast repertoire of compliments to appease her.

“Chen Yin, do you think this looks good?”

“Yes, it looks great.” Chen Yin replied absentmindedly. “This dress is understated yet luxurious, classic yet trendy, and it perfectly complements Sister Qiaoqiao’s figure.”

But as soon as he finished speaking, he felt a tangible wave of resentment emanating from before him.

“Hmm.” Luo Qiaoqiao pouted, her eyebrows furrowing slightly. “Are you just trying to get rid of me?”

He then noticed that Luo Qiaoqiao was holding a men’s outfit this time.

It was a light gray cultivator’s robe with black and gold patterns, exuding a dignified and imposing aura.

“Ah… no, no, of course not.”

Chen Yin quickly said with an awkward smile, “I-I mean, Sister Qiaoqiao is so valiant and heroic, even in men’s clothing, you would be handsome enough to make girls swoon.”

“If you don’t believe me, ask your Junior Sisters.”

The Heavenly Net Sect disciples behind them chimed in with adoring voices: “Yes! Senior Sister, wear this!”

“Senior Sister, marry me! I want to be your wife!”

“What are you thinking?” Luo Qiaoqiao rolled her eyes at them playfully, then turned to Chen Yin, her lips pursed, a hint of girlish shyness in her eyes.

“You… try it on.”

Only then did Chen Yin realize that she was picking out clothes for him. He was stunned for a moment.

In the world he was reborn from, a girl accompanying a guy shopping and buying him clothes was considered a very intimate gesture.

His hand hesitated as he reached for the robe.

“What’s wrong?” Luo Qiaoqiao blinked. “Don’t you like it?”

“…It’s not that.” Chen Yin forced a smile. “I’ve just never worn such expensive clothes before. I’m afraid I might stain them and won’t be able to afford to pay for them.”

“Don’t worry about such trivial matters.”

Luo Qiaoqiao said nonchalantly, “I’ll pay for it. Consider it a gift from me.”

“If you like it, I can buy you anything you want.”

…What a rich girl.

Since she had put it that way, Chen Yin couldn’t refuse and obediently went to try on the clothes.

A moment later, when he came out of the fitting room, not only Luo Qiaoqiao but even the Heavenly Net Sect disciples couldn’t help but gasp in admiration.

Thanks to his stingy Master, Chen Yin had always worn simple and cheap cultivator’s robes.

But this time, wearing a more stylish outfit, his entire aura seemed to have transformed.

Luo Qiaoqiao stared at him for a moment, nodding with satisfaction.

“Not bad. I have good taste.”

…You just wanted to praise yourself, didn’t you? Chen Yin was speechless.

But the next moment, Luo Qiaoqiao turned to the attendant and said, “No need to wrap it, just put it on my tab.”

“Wait, Sister!”

Chen Yin said hurriedly, “I appreciate your kindness, but this robe is too expensive. I’m not worthy of it.”

Luo Qiaoqiao snorted. “Just wear it.”

“The man I like should dress well.”

The entire Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion fell silent for a moment.

Chen Yin saw the Heavenly Net Sect disciples covering their mouths in surprise, and he could feel the tangible killing intent from the gazes of countless male cultivators.

…I’m doomed. He thought to himself.

Luo Qiaoqiao, still oblivious, took Chen Yin’s hand and continued walking.

“Come on, let’s get you a new weapon.”

“No, no, my current weapon is quite handy.”

Just as Chen Yin was about to make an awkward excuse, a cold voice suddenly rang out:

“How much is this robe?”

Everyone turned to see a woman in black, her face concealed by a veil and a bamboo hat, walk through the crowd and approach the attendant, pointing at the robe Chen Yin was wearing.

Her actions stunned the onlookers.

Didn’t she know that this was the renowned Silk-Robe Fairy Luo Qiaoqiao? How dare she say such a thing in front of her?

As expected, Luo Qiaoqiao’s face gradually darkened. She stared at the woman in black and said:

“I’ve already bought this robe.”

“The shopkeeper hasn’t put it on my tab yet, so it’s not considered sold, right?”

The woman in black replied calmly, as if she didn’t care about Silk-Robe Fairy at all. “If I offer a higher price, wouldn’t it be reasonable for the shopkeeper to sell it to me?”

The shopkeeper, caught in the middle, had no idea what to do. He couldn’t figure out the identity of the woman in black and didn’t dare to speak.

“Oh?”

Luo Qiaoqiao laughed in anger, her smile seductive, but her eyes turned cold. “Then I’m curious, what price are you willing to offer?”

“If the price tag is 200 spirit stones, I’ll offer ten times that.”

Luo Qiaoqiao didn’t flinch. “One hundred times. 20,000 spirit stones.”

“40,000.” The woman in black didn’t back down.

The two women’s escalating bids stunned both Chen Yin and the shopkeeper.

…Who was this woman in black? Why was she suddenly competing with Luo Qiaoqiao?

At that moment, Luo Luo’s voice sounded in Chen Yin’s mind:

“Young Master, that’s your Little Junior Sister.”

Chen Yin’s eyes widened in shock.

Crap! I’m doomed!

He instantly understood what was happening, and cold sweat drenched his back.

This was bad.

Knowing Xiang’er’s jealous nature, seeing him being so intimate with Luo Qiaoqiao, and even buying him clothes, she would definitely be furious.

He could almost imagine Xiang’er’s teary-eyed, indignant expression behind the veil.

Worse yet, he couldn’t expose her true identity here, or he would be putting her in danger.

Seeing the two women locked in a fierce battle of wills, their auras clashing, Chen Yin sighed inwardly and whispered a few instructions to the shopkeeper beside him.

The shopkeeper, as if granted a reprieve, quickly shouted, “Please stop arguing, ladies!”

“This robe has already been purchased by this young master at the original price. It’s been recorded. There’s no need to fight over it anymore.”

Hearing this, Yu Xiang and Luo Qiaoqiao both turned their heads in astonishment. Although Luo Qiaoqiao was a little dissatisfied, she knew that Chen Yin was looking out for her and giving her a way out. So she could only say in a low voice:

“Then… I’ll buy you another gift next time.”

Yu Xiang stared at Chen Yin, speechless.

Chen Yin quickly cupped his hands towards Luo Qiaoqiao. “Sister Qiaoqiao, let’s stop here for today.”

“My Junior Sister is waiting for me to return, and I can’t delay any longer.”

Luo Qiaoqiao reluctantly let go of his hand, a hint of disappointment in her eyes. “Then… you have to come see me after the Fairy Conference.”

“Uh… we’ll talk about it then.” Chen Yin said, wiping the sweat from his brow.

…Xiang’er was still watching from the side, he couldn’t act too intimate.

Hearing this, Yu Xiang snorted softly and turned to leave the main pavilion with a swift stride. Chen Yin, under the curious gazes of the crowd, followed her and practically fled from the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion.

After chasing after Yu Xiang for a while, Chen Yin finally caught up to her, panting. “Miss!”

Yu Xiang stopped walking but didn’t turn around. Her voice was cold. “What do you want?”

“Thank you for helping me out back there. I wouldn’t have known how to escape otherwise.”

Chen Yin bowed politely. “May I ask for your name?”

“What?”

Yu Xiang’s voice was laced with sarcasm and suppressed grievance. “Are you so eager to pick up girls that you don’t even let veiled women go?”

“Are all men so fickle?”

“You’re mistaken, Miss.”

He chuckled softly. “My heart already belongs to someone. I have no other intentions.”

“My lovely and gentle Junior Sister is waiting for me to return.”

Yu Xiang’s body trembled slightly, and she said in a forced calm voice:

“If your heart already belongs to someone, then treat her well.”

“There’s no need for you to know my name.”

With that, she turned and left, her figure vanishing in an instant.

Chen Yin looked in the direction she had gone and sighed softly, a regretful expression on his face.

…What have I done to deserve this?

…And my 200 spirit stones,wuwuwu, that was practically all my savings!

Chapter 19: A Woman Adorns Herself for the One She Loves

Early that morning, Chen Yin woke up before the sun.

He stepped out of the inn, stretched lazily amidst the chirping of birds, and put his hands on his hips with a cheerful sigh.

“It’s finally starting.”

Today was the opening day of the Fairy Conference.|

While Xiang’er was still asleep, Chen Yin bought breakfast for Luo Luo and gave her some instructions.

Luo Luo nodded happily, a bun already in her mouth, and left.

After making the necessary arrangements, he returned to the inn with two bags of buns.

By the time he got back, Xiang’er had already finished washing up and was sitting obediently at the table, waiting for him.

“You’re awake.” Chen Yin placed the buns in front of her and said with a smile, “Eat up.”

“Once you’re full, we’ll set off.”

Xiang’er nodded and took a small bite of the bun.

“Senior Brother, wouldn’t it be great if I actually won the championship?”

Chen Yin paused for a moment while eating his bun, then said casually, as if nothing had happened, “Silly girl. Thinking about winning already? We haven’t even passed the preliminary round yet.”

Xiang’er stuck out her tongue. “Heehee. Can’t I dream?”

“What if I’m really lucky and win the title of Number One Fairy? Wouldn’t Senior Brother be happy?”

“Honestly, no.”

Chen Yin shook his head. “What’s the use of such a superficial title?”

“It’ll just bring a lot of trouble.”

Xiang’er nodded thoughtfully. “That’s true… But if I win, then Senior Brother will be the Senior Brother of the Number One Fairy. Wouldn’t that be impressive?”

Chen Yin laughed heartily.

“If you say so, why don’t I strive for the title of Number One Cultivator? Then Xiang’er will be the Junior Sister of the Number One Cultivator.”

Xiang’er giggled. “Senior Brother is boasting again.”

“We’re both guilty of that.”

Chen Yin smiled. “Eat up, we need to set off soon.”

Yu Xiang obediently continued eating her bun.

But in her heart, she softly asked:

“System, do I have to lose to Senior Sister Shen in the final according to the plot records?”

“Hmm… it’s not explicitly stated.” The System hesitated. “It only says to try and figure out as many of Shen Shuanglian’s trump cards as possible. But to be safe, it’s best to surrender after a few moves.”

“Hey, you’re not actually thinking of fighting her seriously, are you?” The System asked nervously.

Yu Xiang didn’t answer.

“No, think about it carefully. Shen Shuanglian also has a System. If you two decide to fight to the death, who knows if you’ll be able to stop.”

“What if you end up in a stalemate and have to fight to the death? Wouldn’t that be disastrous?”

The System added worriedly, “You must control yourself. Exposing your identity could affect the subsequent plot.”

Yu Xiang silently agreed in her heart.

But no one knew her true intentions.

***

After breakfast, the two of them headed towards Ten Thousand Cloud Mountain. Along the way, they were surrounded by crowds of people rushing to participate in the Fairy Conference.

They arrived at Ten Thousand Cloud Mountain and saw a magnificent and imposing manor suspended amidst the clouds halfway up the mountain. It was surrounded by an ethereal aura, yet exuded an air of luxury and wealth.

The Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion truly lived up to its reputation as the largest merchant organization in the cultivation world. The sheer extravagance of its main branch would be enough to make Master Yu Ling, that stingy penny-pincher, drool with envy.

The manor was divided into a front pavilion and a rear estate. The front pavilion was the main part of the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion, filled with all sorts of rare and precious treasures. The rear estate was for sightseeing and relaxation.

Many people were already registering at the reception desk. After Chen Yin registered with Xiang’er, they wandered around the vast manor.

Before long, Xiang’er excused herself, saying she wanted to buy a souvenir, and slipped away from Chen Yin.

Chen Yin didn’t ask too many questions. He knew that no matter what she did, Luo Luo would be watching over her.

So, while waiting, Chen Yin also strolled around the manor. The scenery here was truly elegant, with pavilions, terraces, and towers, all exuding a poetic and picturesque charm. It seemed the rumors about the Pavilion Master of the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion being a pretentious show-off were true.

As he wandered casually, Chen Yin’s gaze inadvertently fell upon a group of people in the distance. His heart skipped a beat.

On the opposite side of a long corridor, a group of beautiful women approached, their laughter echoing through the air. Leading the group was a woman in a fiery red dress as bright as blooming flowers, her smile radiant.

When she saw Chen Yin, her eyes lit up.

“Chen Yin!”

Chen Yin, who was about to turn and flee, froze in his tracks. He could only turn around and force a smile:

“Sister Qiaoqiao, fancy meeting you here. What a coincidence.”

Luo Qiaoqiao skipped over to him and happily grabbed his hand. “You didn’t lie to me, you really came.”

“Cough, cough… How could I lie to Sister Qiaoqiao?”

Chen Yin said awkwardly, “I’m truly here to escort my Junior Sister to the conference.”

Hearing the words “Junior Sister,” a glint flashed in Luo Qiaoqiao’s eyes, and she asked casually:

“Then, where is this Junior Sister of yours?”

“Well…” Chen Yin averted his gaze, feeling guilty. “She’s… gone to browse the main pavilion.”

“I see.”

Luo Qiaoqiao suddenly took his hand and said happily, “Then let’s go check out the main pavilion of the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion too.”

Chen Yin was stunned.

…Sister, you’re trying to get me killed.

Are you unaware of how much attention you attract?

Just walking into the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion will draw the eyes of every customer.

And you want to hold my hand and walk in with me? Are you trying to hasten my demise?

Chen Yin was still racking his brains for an excuse to decline when Luo Qiaoqiao had already dragged him towards the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion without a word.

“No excuses.” She glared at him, her tone brooking no argument.

Now, Chen Yin was truly helpless.

Surrounded by the amused gazes of the Heavenly Net Sect disciples, Luo Qiaoqiao led Chen Yin into the main pavilion.

As expected, the moment they stepped inside, all sorts of strange looks fell upon him. Some people were simply curious and whispered amongst themselves, but some male cultivators’ gazes were clearly hostile and filled with killing intent.

Luo Qiaoqiao, however, seemed oblivious, picking up a hairpin like an excited young girl and turning to Chen Yin, asking:

“Do you think this would look good on me?”

Chen Yin sighed inwardly, but he maintained a smile on his face. “Sister Qiaoqiao, you shouldn’t buy this.”

“Why? Doesn’t it look good?”

“It’s not that. Sister Qiaoqiao is already breathtakingly beautiful. If you wear this hairpin, all the male cultivators in the world will lose sleep over you.”

“You’re just flattering me again, aren’t you?” Luo Qiaoqiao pouted with dissatisfaction.

But the next moment, a sweet smile appeared on her face.

“But you know…”

“I love hearing you praise me.”

Tell me how beautiful I am.

Tell me you like how I look right now.

A woman adorns herself for the one she loves.

Chapter 18: It’s the Scent of Mist Yu Flowers

With one or two days left before the Fairy Conference, Xiang’er finally couldn’t resist and dragged Chen Yin out for a stroll.

Thanks to the Fairy Conference, Fragrance City was bustling with activity. There were countless mortal merchants and stalls, as well as shops specifically catering to cultivators.

When they passed by a street vendor selling candied hawthorns, Xiang’er’s eyes lit up.

Chen Yin turned to her and asked, “Want some?”

“Yes!”

So, Chen Yin walked over and bought three candied hawthorns.

“Here you go.”

Xiang’er took the candied hawthorn and took a bite with delight.

The sweet and sour taste was refreshing and satisfying, instantly sweetening her heart.

“Mmm! Delicious.”

“Good to hear.”

Chen Yin took a bite of his own, then, while Xiang’er wasn’t looking, casually tossed the other candied hawthorn into the air behind him.

A fluffy fox head popped out from the void, snatched the candied hawthorn with a chomp, and retreated back into the void.

“Speaking of which, Xiang’er loved eating candied hawthorns when she was little.”

Yu Xiang blushed slightly, embarrassed. “B-because they’re delicious.”

“And… every time we went to the city, Senior Brother would buy them for me.” She blinked.

“Oh.” Chen Yin said with a smile. “So you like Senior Brother, not the candied hawthorns, is that it?”

“Don’t twist my words, bad Senior Brother!!”

Xiang’er glared at him playfully and then turned her head away with a huff.

Chen Yin just smiled without saying anything.

After walking for a while, they got tired and sat down on a set of steps, surrounded by bags of snacks.

“…Are you confident about the Fairy Conference?”

Xiang’er, who had been happily munching on snacks, suddenly lowered her head dejectedly. “No…”

“I’m really stupid. My cultivation is slow, and I can’t learn any techniques properly.”

“Maybe I won’t even pass the preliminary round.”

Chen Yin pinched her puffed-up cheeks and chuckled. “It’s okay.”

“We’re mainly here to experience the world, there’s no need to focus on the ranking.”

“Just surrender if you can’t win, don’t push yourself too hard.”

Xiang’er hesitated for a moment, then pouted and turned her head.

“Does Senior Brother want me to win?”

“Of course.” Chen Yin looked confused. “I’m your Senior Brother, of course, I’ll support you unconditionally. Why do you ask?”

“Because…”

Xiang’er fiddled with the hem of her light blue dress, her embroidered shoes dangling in the air.

“I don’t want Senior Brother to see me fail and embarrass myself.”

Chen Yin couldn’t help but chuckle. “Have I not seen you embarrass yourself enough times already?”

“Who was the clumsy girl who burned the pot and got her face covered in soot, looking like she had been dug out of a coal mine when she first learned to cook? And who was the girl who couldn’t master flying with a sword and fell headfirst into the lake, becoming a drowned rat? And for example—”

“Wah! Stop it!”

Xiang’er blushed furiously, her lips pouting as she rained soft punches on Chen Yin.

“Stinky Senior Brother! Bad Senior Brother! Don’t say bad things about me!”

“Cough, cough, how can I call them bad things? It’s all out of love.”

Chen Yin shook his head with a serious expression. “I’m completely devoted to Xiang’er. How could I bear to bring up your embarrassing past?”

“But you know, I have a bad habit of being loose-lipped. What if one day I accidentally let it slip—”

Xiang’er’s eyes reddened, and she said with a wronged tone, “Th-then what do you want me to do…”

“That’s easy.”

Chen Yin waved his hand. “Hush money, one kiss.”

Yu Xiang’s face instantly turned crimson.

“Mmm… Bad Senior Brother, wh-what are you saying? Talking about such embarrassing things.”

“What’s there to be embarrassed about?”

Chen Yin said with a grin. “I thought you were quite proactive the last time we kissed—”

“Don’t say it!” Xiang’er interrupted him, her face flushed.

She blushed and fiddled with her hands nervously, her eyes darting around.

“Th-there are too many people here. It’s too embarrassing.”

She pleaded softly, “At least… at least wait until we’re back at the inn—”

“Deal!”

Chen Yin slapped his thigh. “Xiang’er owes Senior Brother a kiss, you’ll pay it back at the inn, we’ll even sign a contract!”

Seeing Chen Yin’s mischievous smile, Yu Xiang pouted angrily and turned her head away with a huff.

“Bad Senior Brother! You’re scheming against me again!”

“Well, what can I do?”

Chen Yin said with a sly grin. “People always like to find a compromise. For example, if I said I wanted to kiss Xiang’er, you would definitely refuse. But if I suggested kissing in public, you would compromise and be willing to kiss me back at the inn.”

Yu Xiang was both angry and amused. She had no way to deal with this mischievous Senior Brother.

The most frustrating thing was that even though he was teasing her, she still felt a sweetness in her heart.

…As if he truly liked her.

Yu Xiang suddenly realized that she might have been enjoying this feeling all along.

Even if it wasn’t real.

Even if she knew it was just a limited-time dessert, something she could only enjoy until the end of summer.

But at least before the end of summer arrived…

Every minute, every second, was enough for her to savor greedily.

“What are you thinking about?” Chen Yin took another bite of his candied hawthorn and then offered it to Xiang’er.

Xiang’er was silent for a moment, then took a bite of the candied hawthorn and gave Chen Yin a sweet smile.

“Nothing. Hehe.”

Even though Chen Yin noticed the distant look in her eyes, he didn’t press further and changed the subject.

“Give me your hand,” he said to Xiang’er.

Xiang’er froze, blushing slightly. “Wh-what for?”

“You’ll know when you give it to me.”

Yu Xiang hesitantly extended her hand, and Chen Yin gently took her soft and delicate hand, tying a red string around her wrist.

A sachet was attached to the end of the red string.

“A small gift for Xiang’er,” Chen Yin said softly. “Consider it a good luck charm for the competition.”

Yu Xiang stared at the sachet, lost in thought.

A faint and elegant fragrance emanated from the sachet. It wasn’t overpowering or overly refreshing, but a gentle and comforting scent.

…It was the scent of Mist Yu flowers.

“I thought for a long time about what to give you,”

Chen Yin said softly. “I’ve always felt that Xiang’er is like the Mist Yu flowers on Mount Yu.”

“Not too passionate, not too elegant.”

“But with a unique, gentle fragrance.”

“I hope this sachet will bring you good luck and safety during the competition.”

“Even if you can’t win, you have to be prettier and smell better than your opponents!”

Yu Xiang was lost in thought for a long time, then her eyes reddened, and she covered her mouth.

“Ahem. Although I know this is very romantic…”

Chen Yin suddenly said with a smug expression, “But there’s no need to be so touched, Xiang’er. Just remember to give me that kiss we promised back at the inn—”

Before he could finish his sentence, soft, fragrant lips pressed against his.

…It was the scent of Mist Yu flowers.

Chapter 17: Maybe, I’m Already Reluctant to Leave

Upon returning to the inn, Yu Xiang didn’t find Chen Yin.

Unsure of his whereabouts, she sat in her room, patiently waiting. As thirst crept in, she poured herself cup after cup of tea.

She was suddenly reminded of how this was a familiar scene. Back at home, she would prepare a meal and wait for Chen Yin to return, often sitting at the table until the food turned cold, his figure still absent. When he finally arrived late at night, he would reek of alcohol and exhaustion.

…And the lingering scent of other women.

Yu Xiang had always been acutely sensitive to scents, particularly those of women. She could distinguish the unique fragrance of each woman, from their natural body scent to the perfumes and powders they used.

Every time Chen Yin returned with an unfamiliar feminine fragrance clinging to him, a wave of unhappiness would wash over her. She would sit there silently, finishing the cold food without a word.

During those times, Chen Yin would sit and eat with her, seemingly unbothered by the cold food. He would complain about Master’s antics, mentioning how she had dined and dashed at another restaurant, leaving him to apologize and settle the bill.

But Yu Xiang didn’t want to hear his explanations.

She felt she had no right to pry into her Senior Brother’s affairs. Even if he was out indulging in pleasure, she felt she had no standing to stop him.

Yet, she couldn’t shake the feeling of grievance and unhappiness. There was no clear reason, or perhaps the reason was simple and straightforward: she didn’t want to smell other women’s scents on Chen Yin.

Lost in her thoughts, the inn door creaked open, and Chen Yin walked in, grumbling, with a paper bag full of steamed buns and snacks.

“Those damned merchants are outrageous, raising prices right before the Fairy Conference. They’re asking for a tael of silver for a single bag of buns!”

“Luckily, I’m a skilled negotiator. After three hundred rounds of haggling, I managed to get them at the original price.”

He approached Xiang’er, pulled out a bun with a smile, and said, “Xiang’er, want to try one? They’re expensive, but they taste fantastic.”

Yu Xiang accepted the bun but hesitated before taking a bite, her eyes fixed on it.

“Senior Brother, you… went to buy buns?” she asked hesitantly.

“Yes,” Chen Yin replied, puzzled by her expression. “Since you were out shopping, I was bored, so I thought I’d wander around too.”

“I didn’t just buy buns; I got a bunch of snacks too, look!”

He excitedly emptied the bag, spreading out a variety of snacks, sweets, and pastries on the table. But Yu Xiang’s mind was elsewhere.

…He’s lying.

The scent of other women lingered on Senior Brother. More than one.

It must have been from close contact.

“Why did Senior Brother come back so early?”

Yu Xiang quietly put the bun back and whispered, “Xiang’er isn’t afraid to be alone in the room.”

“You could have stayed out and enjoyed yourself for a while longer. Don’t keep those women waiting.”

Chen Yin, who was halfway through his bun, almost choked. He coughed a couple of times and said awkwardly:

“Cough… What are you talking about, Xiang’er? I didn’t go out to enjoy myself with anyone—”

“Still lying,” Xiang’er pouted and turned her head away.

Chen Yin placed his half-eaten bun on the table and cautiously moved closer to Xiang’er. “Are you jealous, Xiang’er?”

“Why would I be jealous of you, stinky Senior Brother?”

There was a hint of grievance in Xiang’er’s tone, but she tried to hide it, sulking and refusing to look at him.

“Then do you mind if Senior Brother goes out to have fun with other women?”

“Of course I… who cares about you.”

Seeing that Xiang’er was getting harder to appease, Chen Yin gently patted her head and said in a doting voice:

“Alright, little vinegar jar, stop being grumpy.”

“On my way back, I ran into our Senior Sister from the main sect. She was arguing with Silk-Robe Fairy from the Heavenly Net Sect.”

“As a disciple of the Mist Spirit Sect, I couldn’t just ignore it, so I stepped in to mediate.”

“As for having fun with other women… Xiang’er, do you really think that I, who sees the beautiful Xiang’er every day, would be interested in those ordinary women?”

Yu Xiang turned her head, her eyes hesitant. “Really?”

“If you don’t believe me, we can ask Senior Sister to verify it after the Fairy Conference.”

Chen Yin smiled and pinched Yu Xiang’s cheek. “So, little vinegar jar, you can put the lid back on. The sourness is already making the buns taste weird.”

“Who’s a little vinegar jar!”

Yu Xiang puffed up her cheeks angrily, picked up a bun, and took a vicious bite, as if she was biting her annoying Senior Brother.

Seeing Xiang’er finally appeased, Chen Yin felt relieved and was about to continue eating.

But when he looked down, the bun he had half-eaten had mysteriously vanished.

Not only that, but the snacks in the bag seemed to have dwindled as well.

He glanced out the window and, sure enough, a fluffy fox tail was swaying gently.

Chen Yin: “…”

…That damned Luo Luo, couldn’t she have waited? Did she have to steal food in front of Xiang’er?

Helplessly, Chen Yin said, “I’m going downstairs to order some dishes. Let’s have a proper meal when I get back.” Then he left the room.

Going around to the back of the inn, Chen Yin stood behind a certain little fox who was happily devouring a meat bun, her cheeks puffed out, and grease stains around her mouth.

“Enjoying yourself, huh?” The sudden voice almost made Luo Luo choke.

“Cough, cough…” She quickly hid the food behind her back and turned around with an awkward smile. “Y-Young Master.”

“Don’t bother hiding. With so much food, you can’t possibly hide it all.”

Luo Luo grinned sheepishly.

“Seriously,” Chen Yin said, rubbing his temples. “Couldn’t you wait? Stealing food in front of Xiang’er, how am I supposed to explain this if she finds out?”

He had finally managed to soothe the little vinegar jar. If she discovered that he had such a charming little fox by his side, calling him “Young Master” so sweetly…

Chen Yin didn’t even want to think about it.

Luo Luo pouted, her fox ears and tail drooping dejectedly.

“Young Master, I’m sorry… Luo Luo knows she was wrong.”

Seeing the little fox’s teary eyes, Chen Yin couldn’t bring himself to scold her any further. He sighed softly.

As Luo Luo hung her head, bracing herself for a reprimand, she felt a hand gently caressing her cheek.

Another hand held a handkerchief, carefully wiping the grease stains from her mouth.

“Why eat so fast? Wouldn’t it be better to take your time?”

Chen Yin said softly, “I’ll give you some silver. You don’t have to follow me around for the next two days. If you see something delicious, go ahead and eat it.”

Luo Luo looked up, her eyes sparkling with joy.

“Thank you, Young Master!”

She threw herself into Chen Yin’s arms, rubbing her furry ears against his chest happily:

“Young Master is the best!”

Seeing her change from a wronged expression to a bright smile in an instant, Chen Yin couldn’t help but chuckle and pet her little ears:

“You little rascal…”

You foxes truly have acting skills ingrained in your very nature.

“Right.”

Chen Yin reminded her, “While you’re out and about, keep an eye out for any demonic branch altars similar to the one in Flowing Cloud City.”

“If you find anything, don’t act rashly. Notify me immediately.”

Luo Luo nodded obediently, but with her mouth full of food, it was unclear how much of his words she actually absorbed.

However, despite her seemingly silly nature, this little fox had been quite helpful so far and hadn’t caused him any trouble.

And with her around, even if he was abducted by Luo Qiaoqiao, he would still have a chance to escape.

Seeing the little fox eating with such gusto, Chen Yin couldn’t resist petting her soft ears again and carefully wiping her mouth:

“Pay attention to your eating manners. Look at the mess you’ve made.”

Luo Luo stayed still, obediently letting Chen Yin wipe her mouth. A faint blush flitted across her cheeks, and she murmured softly.

“It’s okay, Young Master will wipe it for me.”

“Hey! Who’s the servant here, you or me? Why would a Young Master wipe his servant’s mouth?”

Luo Luo giggled, stuck her tongue out at Chen Yin playfully, and then, with a bag full of food, vanished into the void.

Chen Yin shook his head with a wry smile and went back upstairs.

After Chen Yin left, a fluffy little head slowly emerged from the void once again.

Luo Luo peeked into the inn window, watching Chen Yin go upstairs, then looked at the snacks in her arms.

Her face was filled with happiness and contentment.

“System,” she said to herself.

“Do you think Mother would like a man like Young Master?”

“I don’t know about liking or not liking.” A teasing voice replied, “But if you waste any more time here, I doubt you’ll ever see your mother again.”

Luo Luo pouted unhappily. “Why are you in such a hurry? There’s plenty of time, five whole years.”

“Five years should be enough for me to awaken, right?”

“Who knows?” The System scoffed. “You little fox only knows how to eat, drink, and have fun. You haven’t completed any of the System’s missions. Who knows when you’ll awaken your bloodline.”

“Anyway, pay more attention. I don’t need to remind you again what the consequences will be if you don’t awaken within five years.”

A hint of loneliness flashed in Luo Luo’s eyes, and her fox tail drooped low.

“I… I know.”

“Don’t worry. I’m just spending some time with Young Master. Maybe while he’s investigating the demonic path, he’ll find the culprit who killed Ya Ya and the others.”

“After I avenge Ya Ya and the others, I’ll obediently go back and awaken my bloodline. I won’t run around anymore.”

“You say it so nicely.” The System couldn’t help but sneer. “Who knows if you’ll still be willing to leave your ‘Young Master’ by then.”

Luo Luo made a face playfully, then looked up at Chen Yin’s room with a wistful expression.

“Maybe,” she murmured, her eyes lowering.

…I’m already reluctant to leave.