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

Chapter 200: Wu Xuan Ancestor

It was a massive, ancient face.

The body was hidden, concealed by the enormous canopy of the tree.

But even just the face radiated an overwhelming, ancient power.

A power that transcended even the Grand Clarity Realm.

…An Immortal? He stared at the face intently.

The ancient eyes opened, their gaze fixed on the three intruders.

“Even I,” the raspy voice echoed through the chamber, “have been waiting here for seven hundred years for this Phantasmal Harmony Ganoderma to ripen.”

Seven hundred years… The Grand Witch’s eyes widened in disbelief.

“Y-you’re the Wu Xuan Ancestor?!”

“Oh?”

The ancient face turned towards her. “A child of the Wu Xuan Cave? And a Sacred Child physique… To think this generation has produced someone who passed the Sacred Child trials. No wonder the Ganoderma has been lacking nourishment these past few years.”

Nourishment? Chen Yin frowned.

“The Wu Xuan Ancestor was supposed to ascend seven hundred years ago,” the Grand Witch whispered to Chen Yin. “But for some reason, he didn’t. He’s been hiding in this secret realm.”

“Wait here, let me talk to him.”

She stepped forward and bowed respectfully. “Ancestor, I am Bi Luo, the current Grand Witch of the Wu Xuan Cave. The sect’s scriptures say you ascended seven hundred years ago. Why are you here?”

“Ascend? Heh.”

The Wu Xuan Ancestor’s voice turned cold. “You un-ascended children wouldn’t understand. Ascending is just changing one cage for another. What’s the point?”

The Grand Witch was confused.

Chen Yin, however, looked up thoughtfully.

“True transcendence can only be achieved with the Phantasmal Harmony Ganoderma.”

“But after centuries of waiting, it still lacks nourishment.”

The Wu Xuan Ancestor looked at them, his ancient face suddenly contorting into a grotesque smile.

“Haha, what a pleasant surprise.”

“A Sacred Child as nourishment… this Ganoderma will finally ripen.”

The Grand Witch’s eyes widened in horror.

“Ancestor?!”

“You’re a disciple of the Wu Xuan Cave. It’s your duty to serve the sect.”

The Wu Xuan Ancestor’s eyes were cold and ancient as an irresistible force surged towards the Grand Witch.

She desperately tried to resist, but his power was like an unbreakable chain, binding her tightly.

“System!” She cried out mentally in panic.

“It’s no use. He’s already on the path to enlightenment. My abilities are useless against someone like him.”

The System’s voice was filled with alarm. “How can someone like this still exist in this world?!”

Despair filled the Grand Witch’s eyes.

But then, she felt a warm hand on her shoulder, and the pressure on her body vanished.

She turned and saw Chen Yin’s arm protectively around her.

He was staring at the Wu Xuan Ancestor, his expression calm. “Stay close. My protective aura will shield you.”

The Grand Witch was stunned, then, slightly flustered by his embrace, she nodded silently.

“Hmm?”

The Wu Xuan Ancestor’s eyes narrowed slightly.

“Immortal Qi? Strange.”

“How can a child from the Lower Realm possess such pure Immortal Qi?”

Immortal Qi? Chen Yin paused.

Was he referring to his blue spiritual energy?

“Hahaha, all the more nourishment for me.”

The Wu Xuan Ancestor chuckled. “Such pure Immortal Qi, a true delicacy! After all these years, such a feast!”

“Thank you for this gift.”

Chen Yin’s expression remained unchanged. “A question. Was the Sacred Child trial designed to provide nourishment for the Phantasmal Harmony Ganoderma?”

The Grand Witch looked at him, surprised.

“What if it was?”

The Wu Xuan Ancestor didn’t seem to care. “The Ganoderma thrives on human flesh and pure toxins. The Sacred Child trial provides both. Even if they die, their bodies nourish the Ganoderma. In fact, this entire realm, even the Yama’s Valley above, was created for the Ganoderma. And you,” he grinned sinisterly, “have taken the bait.”

Chen Yin didn’t speak.

He just looked at the ancient face,

As if he were looking at a dead man.

The Grand Witch’s expression flickered, then her eyes hardened with fury.

“You… monster!”

“Little girl, I am your ancestor.”

The Wu Xuan Ancestor snorted. “You dare disrespect your ancestor? You deserve to die!”

The branches of the tree suddenly lunged towards them, each one radiating a terrifying pressure that made it difficult to breathe.

The Grand Witch desperately dodged and counterattacked, but it was useless.

“It’s futile. I created the techniques you cultivate. Do you think you can use them against me?”

The Grand Witch gritted her teeth, dodging the incoming branches.

Before she could be overwhelmed, Chen Yin’s sword flashed, deflecting the attacks.

“Be careful. His physical body might be decayed, but his cultivation has reached the Immortal Realm.”

The masked man moved closer to Chen Yin and whispered, “Immortals have comprehended the Dao. Even with our Heavenly Dao Fragments, we’re no match for him.”

“Oh? You’re Chosen Ones?”

The Wu Xuan Ancestor chuckled. “Excellent! What a delightful surprise! Even your souls and blood will nourish the Ganoderma!”

“Die!”

The Grand Witch and the masked man’s eyes widened in horror.

The tree’s branches and leaves grew rapidly, its aura growing more terrifying with each passing moment.

Even the surrounding lava seemed to boil and churn under its immense pressure.

The branches, like writhing tentacles, lashed out at them.

“Damn it!”

The masked man’s System shrieked. “Run! He’s using his full power! No one in this world can withstand the full might of an Immortal!”

But the masked man didn’t move. He just gritted his teeth.

“System, exchange for a Heaven Severing Talisman.”

“Are you crazy?! Even with the talisman, you can only exchange one blow with him! What then?! We should escape!”

“The Grand Witch also has a System. She can use a Realm Breaking Talisman to escape with him. We just need to block this attack. Otherwise, none of us will survive.”

He stepped forward, his eyes filled with a desperate resolve.

“I won’t let him die.”

“You…” the System sighed helplessly. “So stubborn and foolish! Fine, then let’s fight to the death—”

But then it stopped.

The masked man felt a hand on his shoulder.

“There’s no need for such heroics, my friend.”

Chen Yin’s gaze was calm as he looked up at the sky.

“Heaven’s wrath will punish those who defy the natural order.”

“Don’t throw your life away so easily.”

Chapter 199: A Clever Scheme

Southern Region, Zhaonan Province.

Zhaonan Province, located outside the Ten Thousand Mountains, was one of the few large and prosperous provinces in the Southern Region.

Due to its proximity to the Central Plains, it was the richest province in the Southern Region.

There were three cultivation sects near Zhaonan Province:

The Chiyu Sect, the Lingyu Sect, and the Huanxi Sect.

Although not top-tier sects, they were still influential, each with Supreme Clarity Realm cultivators among their ranks.

Since the Wu Xuan Cave was the only top-tier sect in the entire Southern Region, and they were reclusive and uninvolved in worldly affairs, these three sects were more active outside the Ten Thousand Mountains.

The Ten Thousand Mountains and Zhaonan Province were like two separate worlds, rarely interacting.

Inside a secret meeting room in the Lingyu Sect…

The white-haired and robust Sect Master of the Chiyu Sect, the cold and aloof Sect Master of the Lingyu Sect, and the portly Sect Master of the Huanxi Sect sat together.

The leaders of the three sects.

Before them stood a masked figure, motionless and silent.

“Is what you say true?”

The Chiyu Sect Master asked, stroking his beard. “Such a significant matter… how did Shen Li come to know of this?”

“There’s nothing we don’t know.”

The masked figure sneered. “If we wanted to, we could even tell you about the time you wet the bed as a child.”

The Chiyu Sect Master’s face darkened, but he didn’t dare retaliate.

This person’s background was too powerful. His entire sect was no match for them.

“You jest, Divine Messenger.” The Lingyu Sect Master intervened, her voice calm. “But this is a serious matter. We must be certain before taking action.”

“Fortune favors the bold.”

The Divine Messenger said calmly, “If you lack the courage, you can pretend I was never here.”

A thoughtful expression appeared in the Lingyu Sect Master’s eyes.

“In that case, please enlighten us, Divine Messenger.” The Huanxi Sect Master, a portly man, said with a fawning smile.

“I’ve made myself clear.”

The Divine Messenger snorted. “The Grand Witch of the Wu Xuan Cave has obtained a great treasure and is currently vulnerable, in the midst of fusing with it. The Wu Xuan Cave has no defenses besides its miasma. Any sect that obtains this treasure will instantly rise to the top, rivaling the Heavenly Net Sect and the Mist Spirit Sect. This is your last chance. Once the Grand Witch fully controls the treasure, it will be too late.”

The three Sect Masters exchanged glances, hesitation evident in their eyes.

“But… why would you offer us such a valuable opportunity, Divine Messenger?”

“Consider it an honor. Hmph.” The Divine Messenger scoffed. “We at Shen Li have no interest in the treasure itself. But if any of you obtain it, we’re willing to form an alliance with you. That offer is perhaps even more valuable than the treasure itself.”

The three Sect Masters looked at each other, their eyes gleaming with greed.

“But the Wu Xuan Cave is a powerful sect.”

The Chiyu Sect Master hesitated. “Even with our combined strength, we might not be able to defeat them.”

“Cowards! The Wu Xuan Cave is weak and vulnerable now. Their elders are in seclusion, and most of their disciples are gone. The Grand Witch, their strongest fighter, is busy fusing with the treasure. Conquering them would be a trivial matter.”

The Divine Messenger’s tone was impatient. “If you’re so hesitant, you might as well go home.”

The three Sect Masters seemed to have a silent discussion through voice transmission, then the Lingyu Sect Master, a middle-aged woman, stepped forward and bowed respectfully.

“Very well. We accept your offer, Divine Messenger.”

“We’ll make some preparations and then attack the Wu Xuan Cave.”

The Divine Messenger nodded with satisfaction.

“Don’t worry. I’ll be there with you.”

“If you encounter any trouble, I’ll assist you.”

The three Sect Masters’ eyes lit up with excitement. “Thank you, Divine Messenger!”

They had witnessed his power firsthand.

With a single glance, he had neutralized the cultivation of three Supreme Clarity Realm cultivators, rendering them as helpless as mortals.

Such power was akin to that of the gods in their eyes.

With the Divine Messenger’s backing, the three Sect Masters were filled with confidence and returned to their sects to gather their disciples.

The Divine Messenger left the meeting room, entered a secluded area, summoned his System, and bowed respectfully.

“Divine Son, the trap has been set.”

“Excellent.” The Divine Son’s image appeared in the air, nodding in satisfaction. “Since our new recruit isn’t capable of handling the Grand Witch, we’ll have to lend a hand. After all, we’re family in Shen Li. And we don’t have time to wait for him to mature.”

The Divine Messenger bowed. “I’ll handle this personally.”

“Fu Zhe, I trust you.”

The Divine Son’s eyes narrowed slightly, then he said, “The Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion seems to be making some moves lately. Be discreet. Keep the conflict contained within the Ten Thousand Mountains. Don’t attract Yu Ling’s attention. The next Triennial Day is approaching. She’ll be eager to eliminate us before then.”

Fu Zhe bowed respectfully. “Understood.”

“Go now. Work with our new recruit, use both soft and hard tactics, and bring the Grand Witch into our fold as soon as possible. With pressure from those three sects, it shouldn’t be difficult for you and our new recruit to convince her.”

“I wish you success.” With that, the Divine Son’s image disappeared.

Fu Zhe lowered his head, then looked up after the Divine Son was gone.

“The Divine Son only said to recruit the Grand Witch.”

“As for the rest… I can do as I please, right?”

“Are you planning something again?” The System’s voice was filled with a weary resignation.

Fu Zhe giggled, a chilling sound.

“I’ve been cooped up in the mountains for too long, thanks to that damned Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion and Yu Ling. I’m dying for some action.”

“I’m not letting this opportunity go to waste.”

The System paused, then asked softly, “What are you planning?”

“Those three sects will attack the Wu Xuan Cave without mercy.”

“The Grand Witch, under pressure, will have no choice but to ask us for help. Then I’ll intervene and eliminate those three Sect Masters.”

“With both soft and hard tactics, I can kill those Wu Xuan Cave pests and those three fools while completing the Divine Son’s mission.”

“It’s perfect.” A sinister smile appeared on his lips.

The System was silent for a moment, then sighed.

“As you wish…”

---

Deep within the earth, the passage was dark and silent.

The miasma was thinner here. As they descended, the air became fresher, and the concentration of spiritual energy increased.

It was almost as rich as that of an immortal mountain.

But the passage was deeper than they had expected.

As they went further down, the temperature rose steadily, as if they were approaching the earth’s core.

“In this environment… can anything even survive here?”

Chen Yin asked curiously, “Is the Phantasmal Harmony Ganoderma that powerful?”

“How would I know?”

The Grand Witch rolled her eyes. “It’s a legendary herb. I’ve never seen it before. I’m just following the scriptures. But this is the only path. We can’t be wrong.”

Chen Yin was speechless. This Grand Witch was incredibly unreliable.

The masked man had been silent since they entered the secret realm, as if preoccupied with something.

Whenever Chen Yin tried to start a conversation, he would either be met with a cold indifference or be completely ignored.

…Was he still mad about being carried earlier?

Chen Yin decided not to bother him.

They continued their descent.

Finally, a faint light appeared at the end of the passage.

They emerged into a vast, open chamber.

A lake of molten lava surrounded the platform, its heat intense and suffocating.

And in the center of the platform, a large, lush tree stood tall, its branches reaching towards the ceiling, radiating a potent spiritual energy.

“A tree can survive in this place?”

Chen Yin stared at it in disbelief.

The Grand Witch, however, immediately noticed the small, glowing leaves at the base of the tree.

Her eyes lit up with excitement.

“That’s it!”

“The Phantasmal Harmony Ganoderma! Just like in the scriptures!”

They approached the tree and looked at the glowing leaves.

The Ganoderma was small, about the size of a hand, with three translucent yellow leaves, each radiating pure spiritual energy.

“Such potent energy… it truly is a treasure.”

The Grand Witch reached out to pluck the leaves, then suddenly frowned.

“Wait… something’s not right. It doesn’t look exactly like the one described in the scriptures.”

“What’s different?”

“It’s supposed to have four leaves, and they should be orange.”

The Grand Witch examined the plant carefully. “There’s a small, withered leaf beneath these three. Could it be—”

Before she could finish her sentence,

A raspy voice suddenly echoed through the chamber.

“You’re right.”

They instantly jumped back, their eyes wary.

Chen Yin gripped his sword tightly, his gaze sharp.

…Here it comes.

This was the source of his unease.

The branches of the tree parted, revealing an old man’s face, his body withered and decayed, only his head remaining, attached to the tree trunk.

A terrifying aura enveloped them.

“This Phantasmal Harmony Ganoderma… isn’t ripe yet.”

Chapter 198: The Crystal Skull

“Tsk.”

Chen Yin looked around.

…Was that my imagination?

How could there be anyone here?

But that unsettling feeling in his gut intensified.

There was definitely something here.

He took a deep breath and swung his sword, the gentle arc of its blade clearing a path through the dense swarm of insects. The creatures buzzed angrily, as if considering whether to attack.

Chen Yin ignored them, his gaze fixed on the center of the valley.

He could finally make out what was hidden within the swarm of insects.

A skeleton, sitting cross-legged.

Unlike the others, this skeleton’s bones were clean and smooth, gleaming like polished jade.

Its meditative posture radiated a strange sense of serenity, a stark contrast to the surrounding darkness and decay.

A small, golden Gu worm rested within its ribcage, where its dantian would have been.

…That’s it. Chen Yin’s eyes narrowed.

The moment the golden Gu appeared, the surrounding insects went into a frenzy, swarming towards Chen Yin relentlessly.

At the same time, the shattered bones on the ground began to reassemble, forming skeletons that shambled towards him.

“Damn it!”

On the cliff above, the Grand Witch frowned and formed a series of hand seals, a dark green aura emanating from her fingertips, pushing back the insects.

Beside her, the masked man didn’t hesitate and jumped down into the valley.

Chen Yin knew the Mother Gu was threatened and had summoned its protectors. He was about to attack when the masked man landed beside him.

“What are you doing here?”

Chen Yin frowned. “These insects are dangerous. You won’t be able to withstand their poison.”

But the masked man just glanced at him and said coldly,

“…Quiet.”

“I just don’t want you to get to the Ganoderma first.”

Chen Yin almost laughed. He was trying to be helpful, and this was how he was repaid.

He swung his Eternal Light sword. “Then be careful not to die.”

“You too,” the masked man said coldly.

They stood back-to-back, then attacked simultaneously.

The valley was instantly filled with a dazzling display of white and red sword light.

Chen Yin’s swordsmanship was as elegant and effortless as always, deflecting the insects and precisely bisecting any that came too close.

The masked man’s style, however, was different.

His movements were powerful and unrestrained, like a raging inferno, incinerating the insects in his path, leaving a trail of scorched earth.

As they fought, Chen Yin discreetly observed the masked man’s technique.

…As expected.

He quickly looked away, a thoughtful expression on his face.

Fortunately, most of these insects were mindless, relying on their poison and instincts, their intelligence far below that of true spirit beasts.

Their attacks were predictable and easily deflected by their combined swordsmanship.

The real problem was the skeletons.

Mindless and relentless, they would regenerate even after being shattered, their poisonous bones a constant threat.

And there seemed to be an endless supply of them.

Chen Yin patiently advanced, his sword a blur of motion as he dealt with the insects and skeletons.

The masked man, however, wasn’t faring as well.

The miasma in the valley was incredibly dense. After just a few minutes, his movements became sluggish, his swordsmanship less precise. He had clearly inhaled too much of the poison.

Although his face was hidden behind the mask, Chen Yin could tell he was struggling.

Despite the System’s assistance and the numerous antidote pills he had consumed, the masked man couldn’t completely suppress the effects of the poison.

His meridians were sluggish, his mind becoming hazy.

“You’re in danger,” the System warned.

“Shut up,” the masked man gritted his teeth. “Use your ability. Clear a path for him.”

“Then I won’t be able to protect you from the insects—”

“Just do it!”

The System sighed and was about to activate its ability when it suddenly stopped.

A refreshing breeze swept through the valley, and the masked man turned to see a brilliant white sword light approaching.

“Excuse me,” Chen Yin said softly.

He scooped up the masked man and, with a surge of power from the Eternal Light sword, charged towards the crystal skeleton.

“Boom!”

The Grand Witch, who had been watching from the cliff above, gasped as a massive sword energy erupted from the valley.

“Such… powerful sword intent!”

“This sword energy…” Even the System was surprised. “How can someone in this world wield such power?”

The brilliant white light split the valley in two, leaving a deep chasm in its wake.

Even the residual energy was enough to make the insects scatter in fear.

The skeletons, shattered by the blast, couldn’t regenerate fast enough, the lingering sword energy destroying them the moment they reformed.

The masked man was stunned, and Chen Yin, carrying him, leaped across the chasm and landed before the crystal skeleton.

The moment they landed, the masked man pushed him away and scrambled to his feet.

“My apologies,” Chen Yin bowed slightly. “I had no other choice. I hope I didn’t offend you.”

The masked man just stared at him silently, then finally said, “…It’s fine.”

Chen Yin turned his attention to the skeleton.

It was strangely resilient. It had withstood his attack without a scratch, as if his earth-shattering sword strike hadn’t even touched it.

The golden Gu worm within its ribcage seemed to sense the danger and was trembling.

“Is this the Mother Gu?”

Chen Yin glanced at the Grand Witch on the cliff above.

“Wait!” she shouted. “Such a rare Gu worm, I might be able to study it!”

She hesitated for a moment, then jumped down into the valley.

She landed beside Chen Yin and reached out, gently touching the golden Gu worm with her fingertip, a drop of blood oozing from it.

The Gu worm, sensing the scent of blood, eagerly devoured it.

The next moment, the entire valley trembled.

All the skeletons shattered, and the countless insects scattered in terror.

The valley, once teeming with life, was now empty, only bone fragments remaining.

“It’s done.”

The Grand Witch waved her hand, and the golden Gu worm disappeared. She breathed a sigh of relief. “That should take care of it.”

Then she turned to Chen Yin, her voice filled with admiration. “As expected of Immortal Yu Ling’s disciple, that was an incredible display of swordsmanship!”

Chen Yin looked at her, surprised. “You figured out my identity?”

“A leader must always be observant.”

The Grand Witch smiled. “Thanks to you, I’ve obtained such a rare Gu worm.”

Chen Yin shrugged. His identity wasn’t a secret anyway. He hadn’t bothered hiding it.

“It seems inviting you to accompany me was a wise decision.”

“You flatter me. Our friend from Shen Li also contributed.” Chen Yin smiled and glanced at the masked man.

But the masked man just looked away and said coldly, “I didn’t contribute anything. You saved me. I don’t deserve any credit.”

Chen Yin chuckled awkwardly.

“You seemed to be affected by the miasma earlier. Are you alright?”

“I’m fine. I can take care of myself.” He glared at Chen Yin and turned away.

Chen Yin shrugged and turned his attention back to the crystal skeleton.

“Huh?”

The Grand Witch noticed something strange.

The skeleton, still in its meditative posture, was trembling slightly.

A crack appeared on the ground before it, revealing a passage leading downwards.

“An underground chamber?” The Grand Witch said in surprise. “There’s more to this place?”

“Hidden so deep, I imagine the Phantasmal Harmony Ganoderma is down there.”

Chen Yin nodded. “Let’s go take a look.”

The Grand Witch nodded and started down the passage.

The masked figure glanced at Chen Yin, then followed her.

Chen Yin, bringing up the rear, turned and looked back at the crystal skeleton.

…Was it his imagination?

Although the skeleton had no face, its posture…

…seemed familiar.

That strange sense of familiarity he had felt when he first saw the barrier was even stronger now.

The skeleton’s posture…

…resembled the statue he had obtained in the bamboo forest within the Heavenly Path Perilous Domain.

That statue was still in his scroll’s space, and it was after obtaining it that the scroll had gained the ability to absorb Heavenly Dao Fragments.

But he still didn’t know who the statue depicted.

He was about to reach out and examine the skeleton more closely when the Grand Witch’s voice came from the passage below. “Young Master Chen?”

…Forget it. We’ll deal with that later.

Chen Yin shook his head and called out, “Coming.”

Chapter 197: Skull with a Familiar Face

It was a grotesque skeleton.

Humanoid in shape, but its withered and decayed form was beyond recognition.

An eerie green glow emanated from its bones, a clear sign of a potent poison. Even a casual strike from Chen Yin’s sword caused the toxic energy to dissipate and spread.

Fortunately, his blue spiritual energy neutralized the poison instantly.

The Grand Witch narrowed her eyes and looked around.

“This… is the Poison Nightmare Realm?”

Although she had expected danger, the reality was still unsettling.

The sky was a dark purple, the clouds formed of swirling miasma. The ground was cracked and barren, even the dust seemed to be coated in a toxic film.

Strange, twisted plants grew everywhere, their withered branches covered in tiny, wriggling worms, a sight that made her scalp crawl.

And then there were the humanoid skeletons that had attacked them.

Even the masked man couldn’t help but comment, “This miasma… is potent.”

“It’s a mixture of countless toxins, brewed over millennia.”

The Grand Witch brushed a strand of dark green hair from her face. “Miasma of this level can corrode even metal and spiritual energy. Even Grand Clarity Realm cultivators can’t stay here for long.”

“We need to be quick,” Chen Yin said, his voice low.

He felt a strange unease in this secret realm.

It wasn’t the dizziness caused by the miasma, but a deeper, more visceral sense of dread.

As if something sinister lurked within, something that made his skin crawl.

The Grand Witch nodded and started walking.

The realm was larger than they had expected.

The miasma stretched as far as the eye could see, and poisonous creatures, some even dangerous to them, lurked everywhere.

What unsettled Chen Yin the most were the humanoid skeletons.

Even when shattered into pieces, they would reassemble and attack again, their numbers far greater than they had anticipated.

At first, it was just one or two at a time. Then, groups of three or five, then dozens at once.

Chen Yin’s expression turned serious.

“We can’t kill them all.”

“It’s Gu techniques,” the Grand Witch said, her brow furrowed in thought. “There are records of Gu techniques that can control corpses in the Wu Xuan Cave’s scriptures, but controlling so many…”

“Is there a solution?” the masked man asked calmly.

“If it’s Gu techniques, then there must be a Mother Gu controlling them. We can’t kill all the lesser Gu. We have to find the Mother Gu first—”

The Grand Witch suddenly stopped mid-sentence.

Chen Yin, who was casually dispatching a skeleton with his sword, turned around, noticing her silence.

“What’s wrong?”

The Grand Witch didn’t answer.

Her eyes were wide, fixed on a small skeleton that was slowly approaching her.

It was smaller than the others, about the size of a child, its face a mangled mess, its movements slow and clumsy.

Even a mortal could have dodged it.

But the Grand Witch didn’t move.

For the first time, her usually arrogant and composed expression crumbled, replaced by a look of shock and disbelief.

As the skeleton’s bony fingers reached for her face, she still didn’t react, as if she hadn’t even seen it.

Clang.

The bony hand was stopped by a sword.

Chen Yin stood before her, his sword held casually in one hand. “What did you see?”

The Grand Witch’s lips moved silently, her eyes wide with disbelief.

“Impossible…”

Chen Yin glanced around. More skeletons were closing in. They couldn’t afford to waste time.

He unleashed a flurry of sword strikes, the Eternal Light sword splitting into countless shimmering blades, piercing through the approaching skeletons.

A moment later, only a pile of shattered bones and the swirling miasma remained.

“They’ll regenerate soon.”

Chen Yin turned to her, his voice low. “We can’t stay here for long. The miasma is getting denser.”

The Grand Witch’s eyes flickered, and she bit her lip.

“Did you recognize that skeleton?” the masked man asked, sheathing his sword.

“Yes…”

The Grand Witch crossed her arms, a rare look of sadness and hesitation on her face.

“That child… was one of the children from the Sacred Child trials.”

Chen Yin stopped and stared at her.

The Grand Witch’s eyes were downcast, her long eyelashes trembling slightly.

“Her name was Lingxiang.”

“She was from a neighboring village. We were sent to the Yama’s Valley together. But she couldn’t withstand the miasma and died on the fourth day.”

“I helped her avoid the poisonous creatures for the first two days, and when she started having a fever, I took care of her…”

But in the end…

The girl had died in her arms, her small face pale and lifeless, her lips bitten raw, black blood oozing from her eyes and ears, her screams so chilling that even the insects had fled.

Chen Yin listened silently, watching her.

He saw a flicker of resentment in her eyes.

He suddenly understood.

“Most of the children didn’t survive the first week. Those who did developed some resistance to the miasma, but most of them still died from the poisonous creatures or starvation.”

“Only that woman and I survived.” The Grand Witch’s voice had regained its usual calmness.

Chen Yin frowned. “So these skeletons… are the remains of the children who participated in the Sacred Child trials?”

“Not just children, there are adults too.”

“And their numbers… I can’t even begin to imagine.”

“Why are their bodies here, in this secret realm?” the masked man asked.

“I don’t know.”

The Grand Witch shook her head. “Let’s find the Mother Gu first. I’ll perform a ritual.”

She formed a series of hand seals, her slender fingers moving gracefully, and faint black dots appeared on the shattered bones.

She closed her eyes for a moment, then turned towards a specific direction.

“This way.”

---

After fighting their way through another wave of skeletons, they finally reached the Mother Gu’s location.

It was a valley.

Standing on the cliff overlooking it, even Chen Yin couldn’t help but feel a chill run down his spine.

The entire valley was teeming with snakes, scorpions, centipedes, and countless other venomous creatures, crawling and writhing among the bones and skulls, their legs clicking and scraping against the ground.

It was a nightmarish sight, enough to induce trypophobia in anyone.

“The Mother Gu is down there?” Chen Yin asked, his brow furrowed in disgust.

“Yes. The lesser Gu are all converging there.”

The Grand Witch looked down at the valley, her eye twitching slightly.

“Good heavens… this is…”

“Banded Scale Snakes, Thousand-Legged Centipedes, Blue-Tailed Scorpions… and many other extinct species.”

“There’s enough poison down there to kill a Grand Clarity Realm cultivator.”

“Is there a way to disperse them?” the masked man asked softly.

“Difficult. Even the Wu Xuan Cave has never seen such a concentration of poisonous creatures.”

The Grand Witch’s expression turned serious. “And the Mother Gu controlling the skeletons is also down there. Even if we disperse the insects, the skeletons will still be a problem.”

“So we have to go in?”

Chen Yin sighed. It seemed he would have to do the dirty work again.

He raised his Eternal Light sword and was about to jump down when—

“Wait!”

To his surprise, it wasn’t the Grand Witch who had stopped him, but the masked man.

“Do you… have a way to deal with those poisonous creatures?” the masked man asked after a moment of hesitation.

Chen Yin smiled faintly.

“Are you afraid I’ll get to the Phantasmal Harmony Ganoderma first?”

“…May the best man win. I can’t handle those creatures. If you can, I’ll concede defeat.”

“Then just watch.”

Chen Yin looked down at the valley and jumped.

The masked man instinctively reached out to stop him,

Then hesitated and withdrew his hand.

Chen Yin landed gracefully at the bottom of the valley.

The moment he landed, countless poisonous creatures swarmed towards him, crawling up his legs and clothes.

But he simply flicked his sleeves, and they scattered,

Creating a clear path before him as he walked, the sea of insects parting before him like the Red Sea.

“Impressive,” the Grand Witch said, her eyes wide with surprise. “To use spiritual energy as a shield without harming or provoking the creatures… his control is incredible. How does he do it?”

The masked man just watched silently. The Grand Witch thought she heard him sigh softly.

“He’s always full of surprises.”

“Huh? Did you say something?”

“…No. You must have misheard.”

Chen Yin continued walking towards the center of the valley, where the concentration of poisonous creatures was the highest.

Although he wasn’t afraid of insects, he was still a normal human being (in his past life, at least).

And any normal person would be creeped out by this nightmarish scene.

He quickened his pace, trying to ignore the writhing mass of creatures around him.

Suddenly, he stopped.

…He heard a voice.

Chapter 196: Heads Up

Three days had passed.

In the Wu Xuan Cave’s main hall, Grand Witch Bi Luo sat on her throne, while Chen Yin, Qingying, Luo Luo, Nan Xiaoxiang, and Lian’er stood before her. The masked man stood apart from the group.

“Let’s establish the rules,” the Grand Witch began. “Both of you will enter the secret realm with me. You will protect me and retrieve the Phantasmal Harmony Ganoderma. Whoever contributes the most and retrieves the Ganoderma first will have their request granted.”

Chen Yin frowned slightly.

Obtaining the Ganoderma to cure Ye Ling’er had seemed like a sure thing, but now this masked man had appeared to complicate matters.

However, he suspected that regardless of who retrieved the Ganoderma, the Grand Witch wouldn’t refuse to help Ling’er.

So he wasn’t too worried.

The masked man nodded silently in agreement.

“The secret realm is located deep within the Yama’s Valley, a forbidden area of the Wu Xuan Cave.”

The Grand Witch explained, “The Yama’s Valley is one of the most dangerous and toxic places in the world. Be prepared.”

“If you die from some unknown poison or creature, I won’t bother retrieving your corpses.”

Luo Luo looked at Chen Yin with concern, but he just patted her head reassuringly.

“Don’t worry. I’m not afraid of poisons. You just stay here and wait for me, okay?”

“Okay.” Luo Luo nodded obediently.

Nan Xiaoxiang, despite having avoided him for days, couldn’t help but say, “The Yama’s Valley is full of dangers, but the most important thing is to avoid touching anything. Many of the poisonous creatures won’t bother you if you don’t provoke them.”

“Be… careful.”

Chen Yin grinned at her, and she quickly looked away, avoiding his gaze.

“Enough with the mushy stuff,”

The Grand Witch said with a sneer. “Are you ready? Follow me.”

---

The Yama’s Valley was located deep within the Ten Thousand Mountains.

It was perpetually shrouded in a dense, impenetrable miasma.

Dark cliffs surrounded the valley, the air thick with poison, visibility extremely limited.

The Grand Witch walked confidently at the front, unfazed by the surrounding toxins. Chen Yin followed close behind, his eyes scanning their surroundings.

The masked man trailed behind them, like a silent ghost.

“Yama’s Valley… what an ominous name.”

Chen Yin couldn’t help but comment, “With such dense miasma and poisonous creatures everywhere, how did a child survive here?”

The Grand Witch stopped and glanced at him.

“Did Nan Xiaoxiang tell you about the Sacred Child selection process?”

Chen Yin shrugged, confirming her suspicions.

“She’s no longer a member of your sect. She has no obligation to keep your secrets.”

“Even so, revealing sect secrets is punishable by death.” The Grand Witch snorted.

“I won’t let her die,” Chen Yin said seriously.

“You’ll protect her?”

“She’s my friend.”

The Grand Witch’s eyes narrowed slightly, her lips curling into a disdainful smirk.

“Such touching devotion.”

“You haven’t answered my question yet,” Chen Yin persisted. “How did you survive this place?”

“It’s nothing.”

The Grand Witch’s tone was casual, as if she were talking about something trivial. “After being poisoned enough times, you become immune.”

Chen Yin paused.

Her tone was just like Nan Xiaoxiang’s.

But looking at the hostile environment around them, he couldn’t help but frown.

“That method… has a one in ten thousand chance of survival.”

“But I survived.”

The Grand Witch’s gaze was calm and unwavering. “And I’m perfectly fine.”

“Instead of dwelling on the past, let’s hurry. The entrance to the secret realm is still a long way off.”

Chen Yin didn’t say anything more.

With the Grand Witch leading the way, they encountered few attacks.

But occasionally, a venomous snake would lunge at them from the trees, only to be swatted away by Chen Yin. And to his surprise, the masked man also intervened a few times, killing a poisonous scorpion that had tried to sneak up on him.

After one such incident, Chen Yin couldn’t help but ask, “We’re competitors, are you sure you want to help me?”

The masked man just sheathed his sword and said calmly, “It was just a reflex. I hate poisonous insects.”

Then he continued walking in silence.

Chen Yin didn’t say anything more and followed them.

After almost a day of travel, the poisonous creatures became scarce, but the miasma grew denser.

Finally, the Grand Witch stopped before a shimmering barrier.

“We’re here.”

Chen Yin stared at the barrier, a strange sense of familiarity washing over him.

“This is the secret realm at the heart of the Yama’s Valley – the Poison Nightmare Realm.”

“Before we enter, I have to warn you,”

The Grand Witch’s voice turned serious. “The dangers within are far greater than anything you’ve encountered in the Yama’s Valley. Even Grand Clarity Realm cultivators would struggle to survive here.”

“No one knows what lies inside.”

“You don’t know?” Chen Yin asked, surprised.

“The last time anyone entered this realm was centuries ago.”

The Grand Witch shook her head. “Even the sect’s scriptures offer little information, only vague warnings of deadly perils.”

“So, once we’re inside, you two are responsible for my safety.”

Chen Yin nodded, but he was skeptical.

The Grand Witch was a nascent Grand Clarity Realm expert herself, a powerful cultivator.

Why would she need his protection?

But he had made a promise, so he had to play along.

“Don’t worry, if you’re in danger, just hide behind me.”

He grinned mischievously. “My arms are always open for you, Grand Witch~”

The Grand Witch frowned slightly, but didn’t comment. She channeled her spiritual energy and activated the barrier.

A soft, warm light enveloped them, and the scenery around them blurred.

This barrier was more powerful than any he had encountered before. Even passing through it felt like an immense pressure was bearing down on him.

He glanced at the Grand Witch and the masked man, who were also swaying slightly, their bodies struggling to adjust to the pressure.

But it was only a momentary discomfort.

As Chen Yin was about to examine their new surroundings, his playful expression vanished.

While the Grand Witch was still recovering from the barrier’s effects, Chen Yin’s voice rang out, low and urgent:

“Look out!”

Before she could react, a strong hand grabbed her and pulled her away.

A sword light exploded before them.

“Boom!”

As the dust and smoke settled, the Grand Witch finally saw what had attacked them.

…A severed head.

Chapter 195: I’ll Bite You Back

Nan Xiaoxiang had been avoiding Chen Yin for the past two days.

She spent all her time at the clinic, treating patients, and would quickly avoid him if they happened to meet outside.

Chen Yin wasn’t worried. He spent his days leisurely strolling around the village, playing with Luo Luo, teasing Qingying, occasionally cooking delicious meals, and enjoying the peace and quiet.

Until Lian’er appeared before him, her expression troubled.

“Big Brother…”

“Lian’er? What’s wrong?”

Lian’er was fidgeting with her dress, her head lowered, as if she had made a difficult decision.

“I-I’ll agree to your request, Big Brother. Just give me some more lollipops!”

Chen Yin’s mind went blank for a moment.

…Here’s what had happened.

Lian’er had become attached to him, knowing he had an endless supply of treats. She would visit him constantly, which annoyed Chen Yin.

He had been hoping to spend some quality time with Luo Luo and Qingying, but this little girl was always around, impossible to get rid of.

No matter how many treats he gave her, she would finish them all within a day and come back for more.

Finally, exasperated, he had said, “This is the last lollipop you’re getting.”

“If you want more, there’s a price to pay.”

“What price?” Lian’er had asked innocently.

“Hmm…”

Chen Yin had thought for a moment. Ordinary threats wouldn’t work on her. He needed something more drastic.

“If you want more, you have to take off your skirt and let me spank you.” He had said, trying to scare her.

But Lian’er had taken it seriously, her face crumpling in fear.

“Ah? Lian’er is afraid of pain! Don’t spank Lian’er, Big Brother…”

“Then don’t eat so much, okay?”

He had finally managed to get rid of her.

But he hadn’t expected her to return today.

With a look of determination on her face.

“Lian’er… Lian’er won’t cry, Big Brother! Do it!”

Seeing her teary eyes and her trembling hands as she reached for her skirt, Chen Yin was stunned.

“Whoa, hold on! Let’s talk about this!”

“Did you… finish all the lollipops already? I gave you so many!”

“Not all of them…” Lian’er pouted, “but the Grand Witch took them.”

Chen Yin: “…”

“And she told me to get more, and that I have to agree to any request you make…”

Chen Yin couldn’t listen anymore.

This was child abuse!

Not only did she steal a child’s candy, but she was also willing to sell her servant for more?

This Grand Witch was something else.

He sighed and patted Lian’er’s head. “Forget it, I’ll give you some more lollipops. It was just a joke.”

“Really?”

Lian’er’s face lit up instantly, her mood changing so quickly that Chen Yin wondered if he had been tricked.

“Yay! I knew Big Brother was the best!”

She took the box of lollipops, then ran over and kissed him on the cheek.

Chen Yin blushed. “Ahem. What was that for?”

“Didn’t you say you outsiders like this?”

Lian’er blinked her innocent eyes. “Lian’er can’t just take your food for free. And we don’t have such customs in the Ten Thousand Mountains. If you like it, Big Brother, I can kiss you again—”

“Stop, stop!”

Chen Yin chuckled nervously, wiping the sweat from his brow. “I was just joking. Don’t take it seriously.”

This girl was surprisingly forward.

But she was too innocent and pure. He couldn’t bring himself to take advantage of her.

As Lian’er happily munched on her lollipop, Chen Yin ruffled her hair gently. “Good girl. Let me check your cultivation progress. Make sure there are no problems with your meridians.”

Lian’er nodded obediently, her tongue swirling around the lollipop, as Chen Yin’s hand rested on her lower abdomen.

His eyes narrowed slightly as he channeled his spiritual energy into her body.

…Her spiritual energy was incredibly pure and potent, far beyond that of a beginner.

What kind of talent did this girl possess?

Chen Yin suddenly thought of his own Boundless Root. So far, its only benefit seemed to be the ability to use the scroll. And his supposedly “bottleneck-free” cultivation was now stuck at the Grand Clarity Realm.

He sighed inwardly. Comparison is the thief of joy.

“Big Brother, what’s wrong?” Lian’er tilted her head slightly.

“Nothing. It seems you’ve been working hard on your cultivation.”

“Of course! Lian’er is very diligent!”

She puffed out her chest proudly, waiting for his praise.

Chen Yin pulled her into his arms, gently caressing her cheek. “Good girl. As a reward, I’ll give you another box of lollipops later.”

“Yay! Thank you, Big Brother!”

“You should call me Master now, shouldn’t you?”

“Thank you, Master!”

Lian’er’s sweet smile made Chen Yin’s heart melt.

After playing with her for a while longer, she finally left, clutching her two boxes of lollipops.

As soon as she was gone, Chen Yin saw a pair of furry ears peeking around the doorway.

“Why don’t you come in?” He poured himself a cup of tea.

Luo Luo emerged from the shadows and stood beside him.

“You and Lian’er seemed to be having… a lot of fun.”

“Are you jealous?” Chen Yin asked with a playful smile.

“N-no…”

“Really?”

“Maybe… a little.” Luo Luo blinked at him shyly.

“Then how should I compensate you?”

Luo Luo thought for a moment, then snuggled into his arms.

“Luo Luo also wants head pats.”

Chen Yin happily obliged, his hands gently caressing her soft, furry ears.

Luo Luo closed her eyes contentedly, a soft purr escaping her throat.

But then, Chen Yin gently nibbled on the tip of her ear.

“Ah!”

Luo Luo yelped, her face turning crimson.

“Y-Young Master, what are you doing…?”

“Someone’s jealous, and the room is filled with a sour scent.”

Chen Yin said seriously, “I need something sweet to neutralize it.”

“What’s sweet?”

“Luo Luo is the sweetest thing in my heart.”

“Ah? Don’t bite Luo Luo, please…” she whined, her ears drooping.

Chen Yin chuckled.

“Then you can bite me instead.”

Chapter 194: No Goodbyes, No Partings

Inside the Wu Xuan Cave’s main hall, the Grand Witch idly played with her teacup as the masked man spoke.

“Grand Witch, have you made a decision?”

“Sigh,” the Grand Witch sighed dramatically and glanced at him sideways. “Does Shen Li really need me that much?”

“Your talent is exceptional, Grand Witch. We at Shen Li value talent and would be honored to have you join us.”

“But I’m not sure I want to get involved in your affairs.”

The Grand Witch’s eyes narrowed thoughtfully. After a moment, she said,

“Tell you what.”

“I’m about to enter a secret realm with Chen Yin and the others to retrieve the Phantasmal Harmony Ganoderma.”

“Whoever brings me the Ganoderma first, I’ll grant their request.”

The masked man fell silent.

“What?”

The Grand Witch narrowed her eyes. “You don’t like my offer?”

“I think it’s quite generous.”

“Not at all,” the masked man replied respectfully. “As you wish, Grand Witch.”

He bowed and left the hall.

The Grand Witch watched him go, a thoughtful expression on her face. Lian’er’s voice suddenly came from behind her.

“Grand Witch, if you don’t want to join them, just refuse.”

“You don’t understand,” the Grand Witch rolled her eyes. “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Shen Li and the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion are enemies, and behind the Pavilion stands Immortal Yu Ling.”

“Chen Yin’s visit is not as simple as it seems. Perhaps Immortal Yu Ling is trying to force our hand, to make us choose a side.”

“The Triennial Day is approaching, and the Heavenly Tribulation is almost certainly real.”

“We have to be cautious…”

The Grand Witch continued her explanation, then turned around and almost burst out laughing.

Lian’er was happily licking a lollipop, her face beaming with delight.

“You…” The Grand Witch sputtered, then waved her hand dismissively.

“Forget it! I’m a fool for even trying to explain such complex matters to you.”

Lian’er blinked at her innocently.

“But Grand Witch, Lian’er doesn’t know anything about the Ten Thousand Fragrance Pavilion or Immortal Yu Ling.”

“Those are secrets of the cultivation world, only known to high-ranking members of major sects. Of course, a little servant like you wouldn’t know.”

“Then why did you call Lian’er stupid…?”

Seeing her pouty lips and teary eyes, the Grand Witch snatched the lollipop from her hand.

“Waaaaah!”

Lian’er’s eyes welled up with tears.

“My candy…”

“You’re my servant. What’s yours is mine.”

The Grand Witch licked the lollipop, her eyes widening slightly.

“Hmm. This is quite good. Where did you get it?”

“Big Brother gave it to me… but you took it…”

The little girl looked like she was about to cry.

“It’s not bad.”

The Grand Witch nodded with satisfaction. “Go get me some more.”

“Huh?”

Lian’er looked up at her with teary eyes. “B-but Big Brother said that if Lian’er wants more, I have to—”

“Just agree to whatever he asks.”

The Grand Witch waved her hand dismissively. “Go on, go on, don’t bother me.”

Lian’er pouted and left the hall.

As soon as she was gone, the Grand Witch took the lollipop out of her mouth.

Her eyes were calm and distant as she whispered, “System.”

“…Are you going to ask about that again?”

“She’s started cultivating. She meets the basic requirements now.”

“I can complete some missions and earn enough points in the next few days.” The Grand Witch’s voice was serious.

“Transferring the Heavenly Dao Fragment isn’t just about having enough points.” The System sighed. “If you want to give it to that little girl, you have to convince me first.”

“Don’t you approve of her?”

“…I need more time to observe.”

The System suddenly changed the subject. “Besides, why would you give me up so easily? You’re such an excellent host. Why would you want to be with a little girl? Is she really that important to you?”

The Grand Witch didn’t answer.

The only sound in the hall was the soft jingling of her silver bracelets.

“Think about it carefully,” she finally said.

The System sighed and fell silent.

---

The masked figure left the main hall and went to his secluded cave.

“System, contact the Divine Son.”

The Divine Son’s image appeared before him.

“…That’s the situation. The Grand Witch is still hesitant, but if I can help her obtain the Phantasmal Harmony Ganoderma, she’ll join us for sure.”

“That’s good. But our plans are being delayed.”

The Divine Son’s voice was cold and indifferent. “The Triennial Day is approaching. We can’t afford to wait any longer.”

“Please give me another chance, Divine Son!” The masked figure’s voice was filled with a desperate urgency.

“Don’t worry, I’m not blaming you.”

The Divine Son’s voice softened slightly. “We’re all family in Shen Li. We’ve dealt with the Grand Witch before. She’s always been fickle. It’s not your fault.”

“Continue with your plan. Regardless of the outcome, you’ll be promoted to Divine Messenger after this. We’ll handle the rest.”

The masked figure hesitated, then bowed respectfully. “Thank you, Divine Son.”

The image disappeared, and the masked figure looked up, his gaze distant.

“…What are you worried about?” The System asked.

“The Divine Son’s last words…” The masked figure’s voice was filled with uncertainty. “It seems he’s planning to get personally involved in the Wu Xuan Cave matter.”

“Are you worried about his safety?”

“At least for now, I’m not a Divine Messenger yet. I don’t know enough about the situation. If the Divine Son intervenes, things will be beyond my control.”

The System sighed. “It’s too difficult for you alone. Why don’t you just tell him the—”

“You promised me.” The masked figure interrupted sharply.

The System fell silent.

The cave was silent and dark.

After a long pause, the masked figure whispered,

“No goodbyes, no partings.”

“I’ve made up my mind.”

“Don’t try to dissuade me.”

The System nodded silently.

Outside, the wind howled through the mountains.

The masked figure stared out into the darkness, his gaze distant and filled with a quiet resolve.

Chapter 193: Playing With Fire

After the Grand Witch left, Chen Yin turned to Nan Xiaoxiang curiously.

“Why were you talking about me? It sounded rather… interesting.”

“…What did you hear?”

“I heard you two praising my handsomeness, charm, and virility, saying you couldn’t live without me, dreaming of sharing me—”

Chen Yin’s rambling was cut short by Nan Xiaoxiang’s calm gaze.

He chuckled awkwardly.

“…She recognized me.”

Nan Xiaoxiang lowered her head slightly. “I thought she had forgotten about me.”

“Weren’t you planning to see her anyway?” Chen Yin asked, curious.

“But… I’m not ready. I don’t know how to face her.”

Nan Xiaoxiang’s eyes were filled with uncertainty.

“She’s the Grand Witch of the Wu Xuan Cave now, a powerful cultivator. And I’m just a fragile mortal. Do my words… even matter to her?”

Chen Yin looked at her with amusement, then suddenly patted her head.

“What are you doing?” Nan Xiaoxiang blinked at him, surprised.

“Taking you out for a treat.”

He grabbed her hand and led her out of the hut.

---

Chen Yin’s “treat” was stinky tofu.

Nan Xiaoxiang had no idea how he managed to make it in this remote and resource-scarce village.

She stared at the glistening, fragrant tofu, her expression a mixture of surprise and disgust.

“Let’s eat!”

Chen Yin rubbed his hands together excitedly and dug in.

Seeing her hesitation, he urged her, “Try it. Does it taste like the stinky tofu in Yanxia Province?”

Nan Xiaoxiang hesitantly took a bite.

…It was delicious.

The rich, savory flavor warmed her from the inside out.

After a few bites, she stopped and asked, “Why stinky tofu?”

“When you’re feeling down, food is the best comfort.”

Chen Yin said, his cheeks bulging, “A full stomach makes everything better.”

Nan Xiaoxiang took another bite, then said softly after a moment,

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

Chen Yin grinned mischievously. “I slipped an aphrodisiac into the tofu. I’ll have my way with you when you’re asleep tonight.”

Nan Xiaoxiang blushed and glared at him. “Can you be serious for once?”

“You didn’t deny it when the Grand Witch asked if you were my woman.”

“…I just didn’t want to argue with her. Don’t misunderstand.”

“Think about it,” Chen Yin winked at her, “I’m everything you could ever want in a man~”

Nan Xiaoxiang rolled her eyes, then asked after a moment, “Are you going to the secret realm with the Grand Witch in three days?”

Chen Yin nodded.

“Once I get the Phantasmal Harmony Ganoderma, our business here will be concluded. I have more important matters to attend to.”

“Dealing with… Shen Li?”

“Yes.”

Nan Xiaoxiang hesitated for a long time, then said seriously, as if she had made a decision, “I have an idea. You’ve been complaining about how secretive and elusive Shen Li is, right?”

“So?” Chen Yin asked tentatively.

“Seduce the Grand Witch.” Nan Xiaoxiang said, each word deliberate, “And convince her to join Shen Li. She can be your inside woman.”

Chen Yin was silent for a long moment, then finally asked, “By ‘seduce’… do you mean…?”

“Don’t let her arrogant demeanor fool you.”

Nan Xiaoxiang’s voice was calm. “She’s just a naive girl in her early twenties. It shouldn’t be difficult for you to charm her, right?”

So it was literally seduction.

“Hey, don’t put words in my mouth. I’m a gentleman. I don’t play with women’s hearts.”

“You have plenty of women already,” she frowned slightly. “What’s one more?”

Chen Yin stared at her for a long moment. “Are you serious?”

“Do I look like I’m joking?”

“Why?”

“I’ve made up my mind.” Nan Xiaoxiang’s eyes were clear and bright. “I’m not going to let her get away with this.”

Chen Yin was dumbfounded.

“I’m not going to let her insult me and get away with it. She used you to provoke me, so use her back. Let her experience the harsh realities of the world. I want to see her play with fire and get burned.”

Nan Xiaoxiang’s tone was serious.

Chen Yin felt a little numb.

How had he become a pawn in their little game?

“Can’t you two just fight it out yourselves and leave me out of it?”

“Wouldn’t you enjoy it?” Nan Xiaoxiang looked at him calmly. “She’s quite beautiful.”

Chen Yin coughed and put on a righteous expression. “I, Chen Yin, am not one to be swayed by beauty.”

“What if I can grant you one wish?”

“Any wish?”

“Anything.” Nan Xiaoxiang blinked.

Chen Yin’s breath hitched.

He could think of a thousand wishes.

“Ahem… this Shen Li organization is pure evil. They must be eliminated.”

“I apologize, Grand Witch, but for the sake of the world, I have to use my… charms.”

He sighed dramatically. “My chastity is a small price to pay for world peace.”

Nan Xiaoxiang smiled. “I like you when you’re being shameless.”

Chen Yin looked at her, then suddenly reached out and pinched her cheek.

Nan Xiaoxiang flinched. “What are you doing?!”

“Collecting some interest.”

Before she could react, he lifted her chin and kissed her.

Nan Xiaoxiang’s mind went blank.

Her face was breathtakingly beautiful, her features delicate and perfectly proportioned, her skin flawless.

And her mortal aura, so different from the ethereal beauty of cultivators, added a unique charm.

He wanted to pull her into his arms and hold her close.

After a brief moment of stunned silence, she pulled away, her heart pounding, her face burning with embarrassment.

“What… what are you doing?!”

“I told you,” Chen Yin shrugged,

“I don’t like being used as a tool.”

“You think the Grand Witch will get burned, but what about you?”

Nan Xiaoxiang froze, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears.

“The rest of the interest… you’ll have to pay later.”

Chen Yin waved his hand dismissively. “When this is all over, I’ll collect my due.”

“I want you to pay it back willingly.”

Chapter 192: A Clash of Words

Midday in the village, smoke curled from chimneys.

Inside the incense-filled hut, Nan Xiaoxiang carefully measured out herbs, explaining their properties to a thin, elderly man with a purplish complexion.

“…The Lavender you’ve been using hasn’t been properly prepared with saltwater. The excess Yin energy can accumulate in your meridians and cause blockages. Try drinking more saltwater and reducing the amount of Lavender you use. Combine it with herbs that have a weaker Yin energy. You should know which ones those are.”

The old man’s eyes lit up. “Indeed! That makes perfect sense! You’re so young, yet your understanding of herbal medicine is so profound!”

“You flatter me. I’m still learning,” Nan Xiaoxiang said with a humble smile.

Heitie, standing beside her, puffed out his chest proudly. “Of course! The Divine Physician’s skills are unmatched! She’s the best I’ve ever seen!”

“Heitie, don’t exaggerate.”

Nan Xiaoxiang gently scolded him. “The Wu Xuan Cave is a land of wondrous herbs, and its people are knowledgeable about their properties. I’m just a junior, I still have much to learn.”

The old man chuckled, stroking his beard. “Talented yet humble, polite and respectful. You’re much more likable than those arrogant fairies.”

“I’m relieved. I’ll tell the other villagers to come see you if they have any ailments.”

“I’ll do my best.” Nan Xiaoxiang replied politely.

After the old man left, Nan Xiaoxiang breathed a sigh of relief, her eyes tired but bright.

“Next.”

Before she could look up, a faint, unfamiliar fragrance wafted towards her.

It seemed a woman had entered the hut.

Nan Xiaoxiang, still organizing her medical texts, asked without looking up, “What seems to be the problem?”

“I’ve been feeling dizzy and weak lately, with a loss of appetite and low energy.”

“I wonder if the renowned Divine Physician… has a cure?” A clear, melodious voice echoed through the room.

Nan Xiaoxiang’s hands paused as she sorted through her texts.

She slowly looked up, the light in her eyes dimming as her gaze met the visitor’s.

Before her stood the Grand Witch, Bi Luo, dressed in her short, gray dress, her silver jewelry shimmering. She was looking at Nan Xiaoxiang with a playful smile.

She extended a pale arm, offering her wrist.

Heitie gasped. This was the Grand Witch of the Wu Xuan Cave, a true leader and a powerful immortal.

Nan Xiaoxiang’s expression remained unchanged. She looked at the Grand Witch for a moment, then said calmly,

“Alright. Let me examine you.”

She took her wrist and checked her pulse.

A heavy silence filled the room, only the faint scent of incense and the gentle breeze disturbing the stillness.

After a moment, Nan Xiaoxiang withdrew her hand, her gaze calm and indifferent.

“You’ve been in seclusion for too long. There’s an imbalance in your Yin and Yang energies. Excess Yin, stagnant Qi, and a lack of Yang energy can lead to insomnia, vivid dreams, a bitter taste in your mouth, and a coated tongue.”

“It’s not difficult to treat. No need for herbs. Just… more exposure to Yang energy. A balance of Yin and Yang is essential.”

The Grand Witch’s eyes narrowed slightly.

Nan Xiaoxiang’s diagnosis, translated, meant:

…You’re a virgin who needs a man.

“I think you’re the one who needs it,” the Grand Witch retorted with a smirk. “A woman’s Yin essence is the foundation of her youth and beauty. Losing it to a man will only lead to premature aging. You’ll become a withered old hag before your time.”

Nan Xiaoxiang’s voice remained calm and even. “The harmony of Yin and Yang is the foundation of all things. It’s the Dao itself. Maintaining that balance can preserve one’s youth and beauty. You should try it sometime.”

“Have you tried it?” The Grand Witch stared at her intently.

Nan Xiaoxiang didn’t answer.

But her gaze was steady, unwavering.

The tension in the room thickened. Heitie held his breath, afraid to even move.

Finally, the Grand Witch giggled.

“After all these years, is that all you’ve learned? A sharp tongue?”

“Well, I suppose it’s to be expected. When I crippled you and threw you out like a dog, you were just a child.”

“If you hadn’t learned how to sweet-talk and please men, you probably wouldn’t have survived.”

Her laughter was genuine, her words sharp and cutting.

But Nan Xiaoxiang just smiled faintly, as if she hadn’t heard a thing.

“You’re too kind, Grand Witch. I’m just a humble physician, barely scraping by with my meager skills. I have no need for such… talents.”

The Grand Witch, seeing her calm demeanor, was slightly annoyed.

“Are you back to challenge me for the position of Grand Witch?”

“I’m just here on business with a friend.” Nan Xiaoxiang’s tone was casual and indifferent.

“That Chen Yin fellow?”

The Grand Witch’s eyes twinkled with amusement. “Is he your man?”

Nan Xiaoxiang frowned slightly and pursed her lips.

Seeing her silence, the Grand Witch’s smile widened.

“Interesting. So you like that type of man?”

“He’s not bad looking, but is that enough? Besides money, what else attracts you to him? Is he good in bed?”

“…We’re just friends, Grand Witch.”

“Really?”

The Grand Witch suddenly leaned closer, her eyes twinkling mischievously.

“Then…”

“I’ll steal him away from you. You won’t mind, right?” she whispered, her voice soft and seductive.

Nan Xiaoxiang’s eyes narrowed slightly.

“What? Are you jealous?”

The Grand Witch, pleased with her reaction, giggled and said, “Don’t worry. You can try to win him back. Maybe this time, you won’t be chased away like a stray dog.”

She was still smiling when she noticed Nan Xiaoxiang’s indifferent expression, and her smile faltered.

An awkward cough came from behind her.

“Ahem… excuse me,”

“Grand Witch, did you call for me?”

The Grand Witch turned around and saw Chen Yin standing there, a goofy grin on his face.

“Um, about that ‘good in bed’ comment… maybe we should keep that private?”

Seeing his mischievous expression, both Nan Xiaoxiang and the Grand Witch blushed slightly.

Nan Xiaoxiang quickly lowered her head, while the Grand Witch, although embarrassed, raised her chin defiantly, her lips curving into a seductive smile.

“If you’re really that good, I might consider giving you a try.”

“Ahem, let’s keep that between us.”

Chen Yin just smiled at her.

He knew she was just being playful.

The Grand Witch glanced at Nan Xiaoxiang, then turned away.

“I’m satisfied with Lian’er’s progress.”

“We’ll depart for the secret realm in three days.” With that, she left the hut.

Chapter 191: Exceptionally Gifted

Ye Huang arrived shortly and left with a thoughtful expression after a brief discussion with Chen Yin.

As soon as he left, another knock came at the door.

“Big Brother, Lian’er is here again!”

Chen Yin opened the door, and there she stood, in her short, light gray dress, her silver jewelry jingling.

Lian’er had been coming every day for her cultivation lessons. After Chen Yin helped her open her meridians, she could now absorb spiritual energy.

She had taken her first step on the path of cultivation.

The process had been mostly smooth, albeit a little… distracting.

Chen Yin watched her munching on a pastry and cleared his throat, trying to sound serious.

“Lian’er, listen carefully. After all your hard work, your spiritual energy can now flow freely through your meridians.”

“So, today, we’ll be taking a very important step.”

“…Gathering Qi in your dantian and embarking on the path of immortality.”

Lian’er’s eyes widened with excitement. “Today? Really?”

“Yay! Lian’er won’t be scolded by the Grand Witch anymore!”

Seeing her cheerful reaction, Chen Yin wondered how the Grand Witch usually treated her.

“Pay close attention to what I’m about to teach you…”

He carefully explained the key principles of Gathering Qi.

Gathering Qi was the process of absorbing spiritual energy from the world, circulating it through the meridians and acupoints, and then condensing it within the dantian.

After this baptism of spiritual energy, the body would no longer rely on food for sustenance, but on the essence of heaven and earth.

It was a complete transformation.

“Although it sounds simple, the amount and purity of the spiritual energy absorbed during Gathering Qi will greatly affect your future cultivation.”

Chen Yin said seriously, “I’ll provide you with the best possible conditions, but you must be prepared to endure some discomfort.”

Lian’er nodded seriously.

“Lian’er is not afraid of pain.”

Chen Yin ruffled her hair and instructed her to sit cross-legged on the bed.

…Once this was done, he could finally ask the Grand Witch to take him to the Phantasmal Harmony Ganoderma.

He sat behind her, closed his eyes, and formed a hand seal.

A surge of spiritual energy flooded the room, a gentle, invisible wind rustling Lian’er’s clothes and hair.

But Chen Yin just glanced at the incoming energy and dismissed it.

It wasn’t pure enough.

The spiritual energy in the Wu Xuan Cave was tainted with miasma, far below his standards.

Since he had made a promise to the Grand Witch, he might as well do it properly and provide Lian’er with the best possible foundation.

He pulled out countless pill bottles from the System Shop and crushed them into powder.

This time, a pure and potent vortex of spiritual energy, almost tangible, enveloped Lian’er’s small body.

A look of pain crossed her face.

“Hold on,” Chen Yin said softly.

Lian’er nodded, biting her lip.

Chen Yin began channeling the spiritual energy, guiding it through her body, following the principles of the “Forgotten Everlasting Heart Sutra.”

In this state of heightened awareness, his surroundings transformed. He was no longer in his room, but in a vast expanse of pure spiritual energy.

Lian’er stood before him, naked, her skin as white and smooth as jade, bathed in the gentle flow of spiritual energy.

Chen Yin’s heart skipped a beat at the sight.

But he was no longer a virgin, so he quickly composed himself and focused on controlling the energy flow.

The pure and potent spiritual energy circulated through Lian’er’s meridians, slowly converging towards her dantian.

Although Lian’er’s brow was furrowed in concentration, she didn’t make a sound.

Chen Yin breathed a sigh of relief.

Once all the energy had been absorbed into her dantian, the process would be complete.

But several minutes passed.

And Chen Yin realized something was wrong.

…This wasn’t normal.

Why wasn’t it over yet?

Lian’er was a beginner, her dantian untrained.

Even a small fraction of the energy he had gathered should have been enough for her to reach the Gathering Qi Realm.

But her dantian continued to absorb the vast amounts of spiritual energy, showing no signs of reaching its limit.

What was going on? Chen Yin frowned.

Ignoring any sense of propriety, he gently placed his hand on her lower abdomen, sensing the flow of energy towards her dantian.

…There was nothing wrong with her dantian. It wasn’t even close to being full.

But it was like a bottomless pit, endlessly absorbing the incoming energy.

Chen Yin watched her closely, ready to stop the process at any moment if something went wrong.

But everything seemed to be proceeding smoothly.

Until the surrounding spiritual energy began to dissipate, and Lian’er’s dantian still showed no signs of being full.

Chen Yin hesitated, then gritted his teeth and pulled out more pills from the System Shop, crushing them into powder.

Another wave of potent spiritual energy surged towards Lian’er’s dantian.

…

Chen Yin had thought this would be a simple process, completed before nightfall.

But as night fell, the room was filled with piles of empty pill bottles.

Lian’er’s dantian finally showed a hint of fullness.

After another round of pills, her dantian finally seemed to reach its limit. Chen Yin breathed a sigh of relief, dispersed the remaining energy, and turned to look at her intently.

Lian’er opened her eyes, her expression weary.

Her body was covered in sweat, her hair and clothes clinging to her skin, outlining her curves.

“Big Brother… is it finally over?” she asked, her eyes filled with a mixture of exhaustion and relief.

Chen Yin nodded silently.

“Are you feeling any discomfort?”

“I’m fine… just a little sticky and uncomfortable.”

Lian’er wrinkled her nose, looking at her sweat-soaked clothes with a displeased expression.

“That’s normal. Gathering Qi is like a baptism for your body, cleansing it of impurities.”

“So this is all dirt?”

Lian’er’s frown deepened. “Big Brother, do you have any other clothes? Can I borrow some?”

Chen Yin thought for a moment and pulled out a light yellow dress from the System Shop.

Lian’er immediately started undressing.

“Hey, wait!”

Chen Yin was startled. “What are you doing? I’m still here!”

“Changing clothes.” Lian’er blinked her large, innocent eyes. “Why are you leaving, Big Brother?”

“You’re… a girl…”

“But you’ve already touched Lian’er everywhere. What’s the big deal about seeing me?”

Chen Yin was speechless.

This girl was more shameless than he was.

Although Lian’er didn’t seem to mind, Chen Yin blushed and turned away.

After a moment of rustling, Lian’er emerged in the new dress, but she still looked dissatisfied.

“I’m still dirty… I need to take a bath.”

“It’s fine, you can wash up later when you get back.”

“Do you want to join me, Big Brother?” Lian’er looked at him seriously.

“…No, thank you.”

For some reason, Chen Yin felt like he was the one being teased.

But looking at this innocent and pure girl, he couldn’t bring himself to have any impure thoughts.

Such pure and innocent girls were rare.

As Lian’er was about to leave, Chen Yin called out to her, “If you feel any discomfort in the next few days, tell me immediately.”

“Okay.” Lian’er thought for a moment, then asked, “Can I come and play with Big Brother even if I’m not feeling unwell?”

Chen Yin figured it would be good to check on her regularly, so he nodded.

“Thank you, Big Brother!”

Lian’er smiled brightly and skipped away.

Chen Yin watched her go, a thoughtful expression on his face.

A moment later, Qingying appeared beside him.

“You’ve been busy. From afternoon till night.”

“You noticed?”

“It’s hard to miss such a huge surge of spiritual energy.” Qingying scoffed. “Does Gathering Qi really take that long? Or were you taking advantage of her?”

Although Qingying was being playful, Chen Yin shook his head seriously.

“…It’s strange. How could a beginner’s dantian hold so much spiritual energy?”

“How much?”

“Almost as much as an Entering Gate Realm cultivator.”

“Entering Gate?” Qingying’s eyes widened in surprise. “But she just opened her meridians this week!”

Chen Yin didn’t answer.

He was starting to think he had underestimated the Grand Witch’s request.

…This was a level of talent he had never seen before.

The more spiritual energy a dantian could hold, the stronger the foundation.

With such talent, Lian’er would be a treasure in any sect, someone to be cherished and protected.

The Grand Witch must have known about Lian’er’s talent. The Wu Xuan Cave wouldn’t overlook someone like her.

But she had still sent her to him, not even allowing her to learn their own sect’s techniques.

Chen Yin didn’t understand her intentions.

But it was none of his business.

He and the Grand Witch had a deal.

He would teach Lian’er how to cultivate, and she would help him save Ye Ling’er.

There was no need for him to overthink it.