Category: The Number One Good-for-Nothing in the Celestial Realm

Chapter 54

The earth fire in Danxue Mountain burned relentlessly.

At first, the Vermilion Birds and Bifang lineages had been unwilling to abandon their ancestral home, but no matter what methods they tried, they couldn’t extinguish the flames. Although they were fire-elemental beings, only the elders with higher cultivation levels could withstand the heat. The weaker ones couldn’t endure it. Unwilling to be reduced to ashes, they had grudgingly relocated.

“Junior Sister, can you extinguish the fire in Danxue Mountain?” Ming Jian Su believed that Feng Chiyue was capable of anything, but just to be safe, she asked. She didn’t want the representatives of the feathered lineages to become roasted birds upon arrival.

“Yes,” Feng Chiyue replied readily. It was just a banquet. They only needed to clear a space, not extinguish the entire mountain’s fire. Surely no feathered immortal enjoyed being burned alive. If they did, they could wish to be reborn as moths in their next life.

Ming Jian Su hummed and sent a message to Que Chenyi, delegating the task to her.

“A banquet for the feathered lineages in Danxue Mountain?” Que Chenyi was startled upon reading the message. She had initially assumed that Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue were planning to seize another mountain from the Vermilion Birds and Bifang lineages. But then she remembered that the new Danxue Mountain had recently collapsed for some unknown reason. It couldn’t be there. That left only the original Danxue Mountain. But wasn’t that place constantly engulfed in flames? She turned to Qing Xun. “After the Vermilion Birds and Bifang lineages retreated from Danxue Mountain, are you planning to return to your ancestral home?”

Qing Xun, drowsy, took a moment to respond. “We thought about it,” she said, then added, “But the fire is still burning. All the plants, trees, palaces, and pavilions have been reduced to ashes. It’s uninhabitable.” The wandering immortals from Phoenix Mountain had often cursed Feng Chiyue and Ming Jian Su for this.

Que Chenyi showed her the message. “I’m not mistaken, am I? It’s Danxue Mountain?”

Qing Xun, seeing the message, suddenly became more alert. She sat up straight, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “A Hongmen Banquet?” she asked.

Que Chenyi rubbed her forehead. “Perhaps.” She double-checked with Ming Jian Su, and upon receiving confirmation that it was indeed the fiery Danxue Mountain, she sighed. “Our hard-earned reputation will be ruined after this invitation is sent out.” Everyone knew that the fire in Danxue Mountain was inextinguishable. A banquet for the feathered lineages? They were clearly being invited to their deaths!

T/N: The Hongmen Banquet, also known as The Feast at Swan Goose Gate.

***

It wasn’t just Que Chenyi. All the feathered immortals who received the invitation thought the same thing.

A thousand years ago, they would have considered this a great honor. As the Phoenix’s ancestral home, Danxue Mountain was a sacred place in their eyes. How could they not be thrilled to have the opportunity to pay homage? But now… after the Phoenix’s fall, Danxue Mountain was consumed by flames, its former glory only a distant memory recorded in history books.

This wasn’t a banquet. It was an invitation to their doom.

However, the Celestial Feather Ministry’s power was growing, and any feathered immortal who wished to become an official in the Heavenly Court had to go through them. If they refused, Undefeated might come knocking on their doors. Even if they survived, wouldn’t their future promotions and salaries be jeopardized? Was the Celestial Feather Ministry testing their loyalty? They didn’t want to go, but they couldn’t refuse. After much deliberation, the feathered lineages decided to send their most expendable members as representatives.

Some openly refused the invitation. The Vermilion Birds, Golden Pheasants, Swan Gooses, and Bifang, who had a deep-seated hatred for the Celestial Feather Ministry, didn’t even bother responding. Their allies also declined, but they couldn’t simply ignore the invitation like the main lineages. They concocted various flimsy excuses to refuse.

***

Ming Jian Su wasn’t surprised by the list Que Chenyi presented. Those who had accepted might not be truly loyal to the Celestial Feather Ministry, but those nearly two hundred lineages who had refused were definitely supporters of the Vermilion Birds and their allies. She didn’t ask Que Chenyi to invite them again but said calmly, “Remember these lineages. They will not be considered for future recruitment.”

“Wouldn’t such blatant discrimination violate the Celestial Feather Ministry’s principle of fairness?” Que Chenyi asked, her voice hesitant.

“There will always be those who fail the selection process,” Ming Jian Su said matter-of-factly. “Isn’t character an important criterion? If all candidates are equally qualified, why should we choose them? As for our principles…” She hadn’t reformed the Celestial Feather Ministry for the sake of the Heavenly Court’s stability. She had done it for her junior sister’s happiness and safety.

Que Chenyi held her breath, waiting for her to continue.

After a moment of silence, Ming Jian Su raised an eyebrow and smiled. “It’s all for personal revenge,” she said.

Que Chenyi: “…” Why couldn’t she learn her lesson?!

***

Feng Chiyue overheard their conversation. As soon as Que Chenyi left, she abandoned the Chaos Mirror and rushed to Ming Jian Su, blinking. “You’ve become bad, Elder Sister,” she said with a sigh.

Ming Jian Su chuckled, flicking her forehead gently. “Who am I doing this for?” she asked.

“For whom?” Feng Chiyue asked, her eyes twinkling with amusement, playing dumb.

Ming Jian Su pulled her into an embrace and, deliberately avoiding the question, said, “Guess.”

Feng Chiyue squirmed, her hand wandering restlessly around Ming Jian Su’s waist. “For Cinnabar Jade,” she said, her expression serious.

Ming Jian Su pretended not to hear and gently kissed the corner of her lips. Her lips moved to Feng Chiyue’s ear, and she whispered, her breath warm, “Yes, for fragrant jade.”

***

The Celestial Feather Ministry hosting a banquet for the representatives of various feathered lineages at Danxue Mountain was a rare event, unseen for a thousand years. The Vermilion Birds and their allies had hosted banquets in the past, but many lineages, although afraid of them, hadn’t pledged their allegiance. The turnout had always fallen short of their expectations, and they had eventually given up on such disappointing endeavors. This time, none of them attended, but they observed the situation from afar. Seeing that Danxue Mountain still resembled a fiery wheel from a distance, they sighed in relief, their faces filled with mockery. However, their smiles vanished when over a thousand representatives arrived. Especially when they emerged from their various flying vehicles, transforming into their true forms and dancing gracefully, as if paying homage.

“The Celestial Feather Ministry must have threatened them. How shameless,” a Swan Goose said, craning his neck to peer at Danxue Mountain, his tone sour.

He wasn’t wrong.

Some lineages had indeed sent their most expendable members out of fear of the Celestial Feather Ministry and Dong’e Mountain. As for transforming into their true forms… well, hadn’t those Silver-Tailed Mountain Sparrows done it first? That lineage was strange. While others were terrified, sending only one or two representatives, they had seemingly come in full force, unafraid of death.

“Are those your clansmen?” Qing Xun asked, tugging at Que Chenyi’s sleeve, her eyes bright and curious.

Que Chenyi made a noncommittal sound. Upon seeing the menu for the banquet, she immediately sent a message back to her lineage. Although it was a “Hongmen Banquet,” the East Abode Master and the Ministry Head were incredibly generous, offering rare spiritual fruits that had been extinct for years, capable of enhancing their cultivation. It would be foolish to miss such an opportunity. Her lineage had done nothing wrong, and she was working for the Celestial Feather Ministry.

“Oh,” Qing Xun said, then added, “Assistant Ministry Head, is your true form also like that?” Was that molting sparrow she had seen in the Celestial Feather Ministry really her true self?

“Are you very different from other Azure Dragons in your true form?” Que Chenyi asked.

Qing Xun shook her head. “Not really.” She paused, then added, “They’re balder than me.” Her words were loud enough for not only the Azure Dragons but also other feathered lineages to hear. They all turned to look at her.

Que Chenyi frowned, sensing a hint of mischief in her smile. “Go and guide them,” she said sternly. The fire in Danxue Mountain hadn’t been completely extinguished. To intimidate the feathered lineages, they had only cleared the large square in front of the former settlement and a narrow path. It wouldn’t be good if some foolish immortal got lost and fell into the flames.

***

In the center of Danxue Mountain’s square.

The representatives from Phoenix Mountain were filled with mixed emotions.

This was their first time visiting Danxue Mountain since that disaster a thousand years ago, but it was a vastly different place now. In the past, statues of the Five Phoenixes and Three Feathered Birds had stood proudly in the square, but now it was empty. While the area had been cleared, traces of the fire’s devastation were still visible. A quick scan with their divine senses revealed chaotic spiritual energy within the mountain, the earth veins like a caged beast, threatening to break free at any moment.

“Danxue Mountain will never be the same,” an elder said with a sigh. He looked towards the main seat. They had lost their former glory and weren’t seated at the front. They were surrounded by representatives from small, insignificant lineages, some of whom had even been affiliated with the Vermilion Birds and their allies. And at the front, seated on a high platform, was a phoenix, but there was no sense of kinship between them, only an insurmountable gulf.

“Elder?” Feng Yao called out softly.

He snapped out of his reminiscing and wiped a tear from his eye.

Apart from those from Phoenix Mountain, the other feathered lineages weren’t particularly sentimental. The initial chatter and commotion subsided, and the square fell silent. The representatives were mostly docile and unambitious elders from their respective lineages. They took their assigned seats and stared intently at the spiritual fruits before them, but no one dared to make a move before the banquet officially began.

Although it was the Celestial Feather Ministry hosting the banquet, apart from the rare and extinct fruits, the other delicacies had been provided by others. The banquet had become a hot topic on the Chaos Mirror. First, the Celestial Mother had sent a generous supply of food and wine, then Chu Yi had also sent gifts as a gesture of goodwill. Unwilling to let the Celestial Mother win the favor of the feathered lineages, the Heavenly Emperor had sent even more gifts. And upon seeing the gifts from the Celestial Mother, the Heavenly Emperor, and the Heavenly Princess, the other officials couldn’t remain indifferent. They reluctantly contributed from their own treasuries, adding to the feast – the irony being that they hadn’t even been invited.

***

Before the banquet began, the host traditionally gave a speech.

Feng Chiyue wasn’t interested, and Ming Jian Su didn’t want to lecture those feathered immortals below. This important task fell upon Que Chenyi, the Assistant Ministry Head. She couldn’t figure out Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue’s intentions and hadn’t been able to get a straight answer from them. She decided to take matters into her own hands and, during her speech, mentioned the Nine-Headed Bird’s attack on the Manman tribe. All that talk about “love and unity among the feathered lineages” was just empty rhetoric. In the end, she only brought up one thing: the reestablishment of the Feather Guards. What had existed before should exist again. Abandoned departments should be revived. The feathered lineages couldn’t always run to Dong’e Mountain for help, could they? What if one day the East Abode Master and the Ministry Head decided they didn’t want to deal with them anymore?

The Feather Guards were composed of members from various lineages. In the past, the most elite warriors had been sent, but as the Immortal Realm enjoyed peace, the position had become a low-paying, dead-end job. The strong and ambitious refused to join, leaving only those who wanted an easy life. Over time, the Feather Guards had become practically nonexistent. What did it mean to reestablish them now? The representatives’ hearts sank.

Ming Jian Su glanced at Que Chenyi. She had briefly considered the matter of the Feather Guards after returning from the Manman tribe but had then forgotten about it. However, Que Chenyi was reliable. Bringing it up now was perfect timing. Since it was a banquet, Que Chenyi didn’t elaborate. She observed the whispering crowd below, feeling a twinge of anxiety.

“Let the banquet begin,” Ming Jian Su said gently.

Her voice reached them, and the Silver-Tailed Mountain Sparrows, seated at the front, snapped out of their daze. Like a whirlwind sweeping away fallen leaves, they descended upon the Heavenly Phoenix Fruits.

Que Chenyi: “…” Sensing Qing Xun and Chang Huai’s amused gazes on her, she lowered her head, trying to make herself invisible, but a blush still crept up her cheeks. Half her lineage had come as representatives, which was already embarrassing enough. Now, with their bandit-like behavior, were they trying to make the Silver-Tailed Mountain Sparrows famous throughout the Immortal Realm? The thought filled her with despair.

Qing Xun patted her shoulder. “Don’t worry,” she said, licking her lips. “Sister Zhu said they’ll refill the plates.”

Que Chenyi: “…” Now she understood. This Qing Xun was the one who had been caught stealing food. How could she expect her to have any shame? If it weren’t for the East Abode Master and the Ministry Head’s presence, she would have already transformed into a bolt of lightning and joined the feast.

Feng Chiyue watched the Silver-Tailed Mountain Sparrows with amusement.

Perhaps finding their human forms inconvenient, several had transformed into their true forms. They weren’t simply grabbing the fruits. They were shamelessly pecking at every single one, leaving their marks. However, they had clearly underestimated their opponents – Undefeated didn’t care about their pecked fruits.

The sword, arrogant and unrivaled, peeled and sliced the fruits with practiced ease, without a single complaint.

Feng Chiyue narrowed her eyes, devouring the fruits quickly, yet her movements remained graceful and elegant, befitting a phoenix.

“They’re quite mediocre,” Ming Jian Su said gently. She wouldn’t even have spared them a glance in the lower realm.

“Mass-produced,” Feng Chiyue said.

Qing Xun, confused, didn’t understand.

Chang Huai, sitting beside her, explained bluntly, “Feathered lineages lay eggs. Some lay almost ten eggs at a time. Those with weaker bloodlines might not even develop sentience, remaining ordinary birds. ‘Mediocre’ is actually a compliment.”

Que Chenyi: “…” Her words were harsh but undeniably true. That’s why those extinct spiritual fruits were so important to the feathered lineages. They enhanced their bloodline and even offered a chance to transform into phoenixes. Heavenly Phoenix Fruits were more tempting than any treasure. But how many fruits would be left in Dong’e Mountain after this banquet? She sent a message to Zhu Wan.

Zhu Wan replied, “Ah, the Immortal Monarch on the tree can’t eat that much. Most of the ripe fruits have been stored in jade boxes. We have plenty.”

Que Chenyi: “?” On the tree? Dong’e Mountain still had those extinct fruit trees?! She stared at the Silver-Tailed Mountain Sparrows, who were still stuffing their faces, and thought, “Are my sisters really qualified to be Feather Guards?”

***

After less than two quarters of an hour, Feng Chiyue grew bored with the banquet.

Pushing away Ming Jian Su’s hand, she asked, “What about entertainment?”

Ming Jian Su hadn’t planned any entertainment. Weren’t banquets just about eating, drinking, and chatting? But her junior sister wanted a show. “How about fireworks?” she asked softly.

Feng Chiyue nodded immediately.

Zhu Wan, overhearing their conversation, glanced at them and thought, “What’s so interesting about fireworks?”

But moments later, her eyes widened in surprise.

Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue’s presence was so intimidating that the feathered immortals, even while busy eating, couldn’t help but keep an eye on them. Now, as they stood up, time seemed to freeze, and the square fell silent. The crackling of flames grew closer.

Ming Jian Su ignored them.

She had many interesting toys. She retrieved a charcoal-like artifact from her Qiankun bag and placed it on the ground. Taking Feng Chiyue’s hand, she stepped back and, with a flick of her sleeve, sent a surge of magic power towards it. A blinding light erupted from the artifact, followed by a loud crack, and a phantom Vermilion Bird soared into the sky, exploding into a shower of colorful sparks. At first, the artifact operated slowly, but gradually, streaks of light shot out like arrows. Phantoms of Vermilion Birds, Golden Pheasants, Swan Gooses, Bifang, and even the absent Gu Diao and Mie Meng birds appeared in the sky, transforming into a breathtaking spectacle amidst deafening explosions. The brilliant light lingered in the air, attracting the attention of immortals in nearby mountains. They stared at the colorful display, speechless.

Feng Chiyue clapped her hands, then turned to the trembling feathered representatives, her eyes twinkling. “Is it beautiful?” she asked.

The representative closest to them felt his scalp tingle. His hand, holding a wine cup, shook uncontrollably, spilling wine on his robes. His face, drained of all color, was as pale as a ghost. “It’s beautiful,” he stammered through chattering teeth. These were just phantom fireworks. What if one day they disobeyed, and it became real, their bodies exploding in a shower of blood and sparks?

Feng Chiyue, satisfied with his confirmation, smiled. But when Que Chenyi and Zhu Wan approached, she asked again.

Que Chenyi cast a sympathetic glance at the feathered immortals and, without hesitation, echoed Feng Chiyue’s words. “It’s beautiful.”

Feng Chiyue beamed. “Elder Sister set them off for me.”

Que Chenyi: “…” Was this something to be proud of? Besides, was the issue who had set off the fireworks? Those feathered immortals who had been happily enjoying their fruits were now terrified. She glanced at Ming Jian Su, her eyes filled with affection, and thought, “The East Abode Master’s methods of pleasing people are truly unique.”

Qing Xun turned to Chang Huai. “Did you craft this?” she asked.

Chang Huai, still admiring the beautiful display, shook her head repeatedly. “No.” How could Feng Chiyue’s toys be her creation?

***

On the Chaos Mirror.

Some curious immortal had secretly recorded the fireworks over the fiery Danxue Mountain.

The Vermilion Birds, Bifang, and other lineages were furious, cursing and ranting. Meanwhile, the clan leaders were terrified. They had known that the Celestial Feather Ministry’s banquet wouldn’t be a simple affair. Were they about to witness a bloodbath? However, by evening, all the representatives returned unharmed. Their faces were pale, as if they had been through a horrifying ordeal, but before they could even speak, they burped loudly.

The clan leaders: “…” Had they sent starving ghosts?

Ignoring their strange looks, the representatives, after recounting their harrowing experience, cleared their throats and prepared to address the main issue. Perhaps their burps were too loud, because apart from the mention of Heavenly Phoenix Fruits, their clansmen paid no attention to their words. There were so many benefits! They wished they had been the ones invited.

The representatives, pretending not to notice their stares, said, “The Celestial Feather Ministry is reestablishing the Feather Guards.”

Silence fell upon the hall.

…

News spread among the feathered lineages. The forgotten term “Feather Guards” resurfaced, and they began to consider suitable candidates. After all, according to the Celestial Feather Ministry’s rules, they couldn’t refuse the conscription. The Feather Guards required five thousand members, each lineage contributing one to three members depending on their size.

***

In Dong’e Mountain.

Feng Chiyue was also thinking about the Feather Guards. She hadn’t wanted to get involved in the Celestial Feather Ministry’s affairs and had been indifferent towards Que Chenyi’s decision to reestablish them. Only when she saw Ming Jian Su marking names on the Celestial Feather Career Book did she show a flicker of responsibility, asking a few questions before declaring, “They’ll definitely send us the rejects.”

Ming Jian Su didn’t have high expectations either. “At least we can ensure they’re not evil,” she said. The feathered lineages, out of fear, wouldn’t send any depraved or unruly immortals. They would send the most mediocre ones. But that wasn’t a problem. With spiritual fruits to cleanse their bodies and enhance their cultivation, they would eventually become stronger.

Feng Chiyue looked at her suspiciously. “You’re not planning to use Dong’e Mountain’s resources to support the Feather Guards, are you?” She didn’t care about those spiritual fruits. They were just sitting there anyway. But she wouldn’t allow those feathered lineages to freeload!

“Of course not!” Ming Jian Su said righteously. She wasn’t that generous. What her junior sister gave her was hers, and she would only occasionally use it to entertain guests. “The Celestial Feather Ministry will purchase them from us.”

Feng Chiyue’s anger dissipated like a bubble in water. “Are you going to train them personally?” she asked.

Ming Jian Su had briefly considered it but then dismissed the idea. As the East Abode Master, she had indeed been responsible for training Heavenly Soldiers in the past. But if she took on this task, it would mean less time with her junior sister. “No,” she said.

There was no need for her to go personally. If those Feather Guards lacked discipline, she would simply kill them. Feng Chiyue lowered her gaze, concealing her true thoughts. “Let Chang Huai and the others craft some supervisory puppets,” she said with a smile. “Danxue Mountain is a good place, isn’t it? Don’t they want to pay homage?” She paused, then added, “We can also send them to the Ethereal Spirit Realm within the Chaos Mirror.”

Ming Jian Su nodded in agreement.

***

Soon, Chang Huai and the other artisans from the Heavenly Prosperity Department received their biggest assignment since joining the Celestial Feather Ministry: constructing a training ground for the Feather Guards in Danxue Mountain.

Artisans were naturally skilled in formations. They had all ascended from the lower realm and had seen various training grounds and trials. They were eager to impress Feng Chiyue and enthusiastically got to work. Danxue Mountain, with its volatile spiritual energy, was the perfect place to create a realistic and dangerous environment. If the Feather Guards couldn’t control their magic power, they would trigger volcanic eruptions. Such danger was the best way to unlock their potential.

Chang Huai, in charge of the construction, found an opportunity to visit Dong’e Mountain. She cornered Zhu Wan and asked, “Is the Celestial Feather Ministry going to become completely independent like the Four Seas Department, only nominally under the Heavenly Court’s jurisdiction?” Or perhaps something even more daring? She swallowed nervously and asked, her voice hushed, “Are they planning to usurp the Mandate of Heaven?” If that happened, wouldn’t she, Chang Huai, become a Star Monarch?

Zhu Wan: “…”

Chapter 53

Her tone was as casual as if she were discussing the weather, yet her words determined the fate of others.

Not only those from Danxue Mountain, who already harbored deep resentment towards Feng Chiyue, but even the youthful Daoist priests frowned at her words. “Are you joking, Fellow Daoist?” one of them asked, chuckling. His response was a nonchalant glance from Feng Chiyue and a swift, sharp sword beam from Ming Jian Su! His expression changed abruptly, and he hastily summoned his weapon, blocking the attack.

Feng Yao, snapping out of her daze, sighed in relief. She knew Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue’s capabilities. They couldn’t just stand by and watch them fight alone. She channeled her magic power and charged forward, attempting to alleviate some of the pressure.

Ming Jian Su wasn’t intimidated even if these Daoist priests descended in their true forms, let alone mere manifestations. Undefeated, Eternal Sword, Zhenyu Sword, and “Three Feet Above Heaven”—all four swords blazed with light. Their clash was fierce, magic power surging, sending rocks and trees flying, mountains crumbling. Ming Jian Su’s eyes turned cold as she unleashed the Heavenly Dao Sword Technique, fighting with unrestrained power. The three youthful Daoist priests, unable to withstand the onslaught of sword energy, couldn’t even get close to her, let alone harm her.

Feng Chiyue watched from the sidelines, a faint smile playing on her lips. The Swan Goose Elder from Danxue Mountain glanced at her, his eyes filled with malice, as if he had seen something repulsive. He broke through Feng Yao’s defenses and, with a roar, channeled his magic power, launching a powerful attack towards Feng Chiyue.

Feng Chiyue met his gaze, and a deafening explosion erupted. All the blood and magic power within the Swan Goose Elder surged outwards, a torrent of raw power, crashing in all directions. A shower of blood rained down wherever this torrent passed, creating a chilling scene. After unleashing this attack, his body rapidly withered, his hair turning white, his appearance aged. Feng Yao, unable to intercept in time, was horrified. This battle was vastly different from their sparring sessions in the Ethereal Spirit Realm. She felt a surge of fear and dread. This brutal attack was clearly aimed at killing Feng Chiyue.

The moment the Swan Goose Elder had moved, the three Daoist priests had blocked Ming Jian Su, preventing her from coming to Feng Chiyue’s aid.

But Ming Jian Su hadn’t intended to intervene. Her sword wind, like a piercing shriek, became an unstoppable storm, its speed beyond human perception, shredding everything in its path.

Facing this overwhelming attack, Feng Chiyue simply raised her hand and summoned a sword. Crimson light flowed across its surface, like a raging fire, and as it slashed forward, it collided with the torrent! A thunderous boom echoed through the air, as if a river flowing into the sea had been abruptly halted. The mighty current surged upwards, then outwards, but it instantly crashed into a blazing inferno. A phoenix cry pierced the air. The Swan Goose Elder’s eyes widened in terror, the world around him seemingly losing its color. Although it was just a fleeting moment, it stretched endlessly in his perception. He suddenly remembered the phoenix cry and the phoenix shadow he had witnessed that day in Danxue Mountain. The answer was clear! “You…” But he only managed to utter a single word before a smiling face appeared before him.

He felt as if he had been plunged into an icy abyss, his body trembling uncontrollably. Terror gripped his heart, and his lips trembled as he tried to finish his sentence. But all color drained from his aged face. Feng Chiyue smiled at him, placing her hand on his head. Her magic power surged downwards, shattering his bones and meridians. “What kind of technique have you cultivated?” she asked, clicking her tongue. “You’re still so weak.” She withdrew her hand, tucking it into her sleeve. Flames engulfed his mangled body, reducing him to ashes in an instant. She looked up, her gaze fixed on Ming Jian Su.

Ming Jian Su frowned slightly. She had known that Feng Chiyue could handle the Swan Goose Elder’s attack and hadn’t interfered. However, she had still divided her attention, observing Feng Chiyue while fighting the three Daoist priests. She saw a dark stain on her red robes, likely blood splattered during the battle. Her junior sister hated such filth. Her killing intent intensified! Swords clashed, the wind and clouds churned, and thunder rumbled. The three youthful Daoist priests’ weapons were exhausted. Her eyes turned cold, and she unleashed the Heavenly Dao’s Authority, suppressing them for a brief moment. But that was enough. Her sword technique shifted again. Heaven and Earth Reunited, killing intent filling the air. The powerful sword force, like a storm sweeping away fallen leaves, engulfed the three Daoist priests, tearing them apart, scattering them like dust in the wind.

The sword force didn’t stop there. It surged towards those from Danxue Mountain.

Not only the feathered immortals from Danxue Mountain but also those from Phoenix Mountain and the Manman tribe panicked, scrambling to escape the storm of sword intent.

Those from Danxue Mountain also wanted to flee, but they couldn’t outrun the sword. They threw out their protective artifacts, delaying the inevitable for a moment. In a flash, the Phoenix’s Virtuous Sound resonated, exploiting the momentary lapse in their concentration, and their steps faltered. The sword energy intensified. Those with higher cultivation levels could resist for a few breaths, but the weaker ones were instantly decapitated, their bodies turning to dust.

Danxue Mountain’s ambush had failed miserably. The hunters had become the hunted, their ranks scattering in defeat.

The World in a Pot sealed this space, leaving them nowhere to escape. Some, remembering their shared lineage, pleaded for mercy, abandoning their pride. They were immortals. If they hadn’t gotten involved in this mess, they could have lived for eons. How could they accept such a swift and utter demise?

Feng Yao hesitated, turning to Feng Chiyue. Many lineages were involved this time. If word got out, it would cause endless trouble. Only the Celestial Pivot Department had the authority to punish them. Perhaps they could use a gentler approach and persuade those who had sided with Danxue Mountain to switch their allegiance? Knowing the truth, she was ashamed to visit Dong’e Mountain and didn’t dare to speak too loudly.

Feng Chiyue’s gaze was cold. She glanced at Feng Yao warningly. “Mind your own business,” she said.

Even if Feng Chiyue had agreed to spare their lives, Ming Jian Su wouldn’t have shown any mercy. Moreover, Feng Chiyue was now completely aligned with her. Ming Jian Su unleashed her sword, allowing its energy to sever the traitors’ heads and obliterate their souls. She ignored the reinforcements from Phoenix Mountain and simply collected the Qiankun bags from the slain immortals, tossing a few to the Manman Chief. “Rebuild your barrier,” she instructed.

The Manman Chief trembled, stammering, “Yes.” They had never witnessed such a bloody, brutal scene. Their faces were pale, and they almost fainted. Ming Jian Su didn’t have time to comfort them. She called out, “Junior Sister,” deactivated the World in a Pot, and, ignoring the carnage, they soared into the sky.

***

Those from Danxue Mountain had spared no expense in this ambush, hiring three Daoist priests from the Realm Beyond Heaven and sending the Swan Goose Elder with the elite forces of various lineages. Who would have thought that they would suffer a complete defeat? And to make matters worse, those three ancestors were urging them to deliver the remaining payment to the Realm Beyond Heaven. It was only then that they discovered that those three hadn’t actually descended! They had only sent manifestations. If they had known, they would never have gone through with this plan! They had been tricked, and resentment simmered within them. But they couldn’t afford to antagonize their ancestors and could only grit their teeth and prepare the remaining treasures.

***

The Jianmu(World) tree, a stairway to heaven, reached towards the Realm Beyond Heaven.

The ones delivering the treasures this time were wandering immortals from the Bifang lineage.

They grumbled about the Realm Beyond Heaven’s dishonesty, their eyes lingering greedily on the treasures in the chariot, but despite their desire, they didn’t dare to touch anything. However, as they approached the Jianmu tree’s massive trunk, they saw two figures standing beneath it. Terror gripped their hearts! It was none other than Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue, returning from the Manman tribe’s settlement.

They had planned to ascend to the Realm Beyond Heaven to demand their payment, but then they realized that Danxue Mountain’s recent financial troubles might have prevented them from fulfilling their obligation. They had decided to wait under the tree, hoping to catch them. And they had. “Junior Sister, Danxue Mountain has come to deliver gifts,” Ming Jian Su said with a smile.

Feng Chiyue pondered for a moment. “It doesn’t look like much,” she said.

Their casual conversation terrified the Bifang immortals. They wanted to flee.

Was there still time to send a message back to Danxue Mountain? Or perhaps they could ask the Celestial Pivot Department for help? These were treasures meant for the Realm Beyond Heaven. How could they explain it if they were taken? Their minds raced as they saw Ming Jian Su summon her sword. Losing all desire to fight, they scattered. Ming Jian Su didn’t kill them. She simply planted a sword energy mark on the slowest Bifang immortal, then turned her attention to the Qiankun chariot carrying the treasures.

Feng Chiyue wasn’t interested in the contents of the chariot. She looked at Ming Jian Su and asked slowly, “Are we going back to Dong’e Mountain?”

Ming Jian Su sighed and shook her head. “We still need to visit the Celestial Pivot Department,” she said. Seeing the exhaustion on Feng Chiyue’s face, she added, “Junior Sister, shall I send you back first?”

Feng Chiyue didn’t want to be separated from her. “No,” she said immediately. She had completely forgotten about being manhandled by Ming Jian Su earlier. She transformed into a small bird and hopped into her arms, only her fluffy head peeking out. Ming Jian Su took the opportunity to pet her, and Feng Chiyue, after a few futile attempts to escape, finally gave up and closed her eyes, falling asleep.

***

In the Celestial Pivot Department.

Upon hearing that Ming Jian Su was here, both officials and attendants panicked.

Yunze Young Lord, lounging on a bed, watching a play, frowned upon hearing her name. If there was anyone in the entire Immortal Realm he disliked, it was Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue. Although the Star Monarch had emerged from seclusion, she wouldn’t handle minor matters. This task fell upon him, the Young Lord.

By the time he reluctantly reached the Dharma Hall, Ming Jian Su was already sitting on the main seat, her posture imposing.

He didn’t dare to criticize her. He simply pulled up a chair and asked with a forced smile, “What brings you to the Celestial Pivot Department, Fellow Daoist Dong’e?”

Ming Jian Su’s face was dark. She tossed a recording stone to him. Those fools from Danxue Mountain had been so confident of their success that they hadn’t even bothered to conceal their intentions. The Vermilion Bird Elder truly had worthy successors. He wouldn’t be alone on the road to the Yellow Springs.

Yunze Young Lord’s hand trembled as he held the stone.

He was extremely reluctant to view it, but under Ming Jian Su’s intimidating gaze, he had no choice but to activate it with his magic power. A single glance was enough to make his expression change. He knew that the Manman tribe had been attacked by the Nine-Headed Bird, but he had dismissed it as a “private dispute” that the Celestial Pivot Department shouldn’t interfere with. He hadn’t wanted to deal with it, but now it turned out that Danxue Mountain was behind it all. The recording abruptly ended after those from Danxue Mountain appeared. His eyelids twitched, and he couldn’t help but ask, “What happened to those Fellow Daoists?”

Ming Jian Su glanced at him. “Would you like to visit them, Fellow Daoist Yunze?” she asked calmly.

He didn’t understand. He forced a smile, his expression stiff and awkward. “Of course, I need to investigate,” he said.

Ming Jian Su stood up and looked down at him. Meeting his confused gaze, she said helpfully, “Just slit your throat, Fellow Daoist Yunze, and you’ll see them.”

His ominous premonition was confirmed by her casual words. He looked up abruptly and saw a calm smile on her face. His anxiety didn’t lessen but intensified. Goosebumps erupted on his skin, and a chill ran down his spine. He had glimpsed many immortals in the recording, even some from the Realm Beyond Heaven. Had Ming Jian Su killed them all? How could she kill so easily, whether it was one person or a group? With her power, could she effortlessly shatter the heavens? Countless human immortals had ascended from the lower realm, but in thousands of years, he had never seen anyone as powerful as Ming Jian Su! Just when you thought she had reached her peak, she would surpass it. Even a simple glance from her made him dizzy, as if he could hear the piercing shriek of her sword.

“Are you joking, East Abode Master?” he asked through gritted teeth.

Ming Jian Su finally stopped smiling. Her expression hardened, and a chilling coldness, like frost and snow, filled the hall. “I never joke,” she said coldly. Before he could recover, she continued, “Has the Heavenly Emperor issued a decree forbidding the Celestial Pivot Department from interfering in disputes between the feathered lineages?”

He was speechless. He struggled for a moment, then asked, “What do you intend to do, East Abode Master?”

“Seek justice,” she replied.

“Justice?” he almost shouted, but he restrained himself. They were dead. What justice could there be? Hadn’t she already taken it herself? He frowned, his eyes filled with weariness.

“They harbored resentment and attacked me repeatedly,” Ming Jian Su continued. “Perhaps the verdict in the Vermilion Bird Elder’s case was wrong. Perhaps the entire Danxue Mountain has fallen. Why else would they keep sabotaging themselves?”

“Sabotaging themselves?” he murmured. He wanted to accuse her of arrogance, but then he realized that, in terms of defending against the demons, Ming Jian Su was indeed a “pillar of strength.” He looked up at her icy expression, feeling a surge of unease. The Vermilion Bird Elder’s case was closed. They couldn’t keep digging into the past. He had to stop her. He forced a smile. “I’ll summon those from Danxue Mountain immediately,” he said wearily.

***

But before he could activate the Arrest Warrant, those from Danxue Mountain arrived on their own.

Not long ago, the Bifang immortals who had fled in terror had returned to the mountain, reporting that the treasures meant for the Realm Beyond Heaven had been seized by Ming Jian Su. The Golden Pheasants and Bifang were furious, but they quickly calmed down. Instead of confronting Dong’e Mountain, they decided to report the incident truthfully, hoping to incite conflict between the Realm Beyond Heaven and Ming Jian Su. Those in the Realm Beyond Heaven were indeed enraged. The Golden Pheasant and Bifang elders were secretly delighted, but suddenly, the young Bifang immortal who had returned to the mountain began to convulse.

A surge of sword energy erupted, forming a massive sword in the sky, as imposing as Kunlun Mountain itself. It crashed down towards the new Danxue Mountain! After relocating, they had set up a few barriers, but they were far from perfect. The giant sword shattered their defenses, splitting their new mountain in two! The chasm stretched for thousands of feet, right down the middle, destroying the newly built settlements of various lineages. How could they tolerate such an insult? Ming Jian Su had blatantly attacked them in the Immortal Realm. They had to demand justice from the Celestial Pivot Department.

***

The Bifang Elder, arriving at the Dharma Hall, was stunned to see Ming Jian Su standing in the main seat, her arms crossed.

His expression changed dramatically. He almost thought the Head of the Celestial Pivot Department had been replaced. Only when Yunze Young Lord coughed beside him did he flick his sleeve and say angrily, “Why did you destroy our settlement, East Abode Master?”

Ming Jian Su raised an eyebrow. “Don’t make baseless accusations, Fellow Daoist,” she said.

He choked. He had no concrete evidence, but who else would plant sword energy on their disciples besides Ming Jian Su? “Do you dare to deny your involvement?”

“Why wouldn’t I?” she scoffed. She had planted a sword energy mark, but she hadn’t activated it. What did it have to do with her?

He frowned, studying her suspiciously, but before he could press further, Yunze Young Lord spoke up. “You’ve arrived just in time, Fellow Daoist,” he said, looking at the Bifang Elder. “The East Abode Master has accused Danxue Mountain of manipulating the evil Nine-Headed Bird to attack the Manman tribe. What do you have to say?”

Knowing that the immortals sent to ambush Ming Jian Su had been completely wiped out, the Bifang Elder had expected this day to come. His eyes flickered. “That’s absurd,” he said coldly.

Yunze Young Lord observed his expression and tossed him the recording stone.

He glanced at it and frowned. “Those immortals acted on their own. What does it have to do with Danxue Mountain?” If the mission had succeeded, all lineages would have benefited. Now that it had failed, they would let the Swan Goose Elder take full responsibility, just like the Vermilion Bird Elder had done before. They had learned their lesson. They hadn’t hired any unreliable wandering immortals this time. As for the payment to the Realm Beyond Heaven, they had sent it afterwards, using only the resources of a single lineage.

Hearing this, Yunze Young Lord sighed in relief. It was best if the blame fell on the dead. He truly didn’t want Ming Jian Su to pursue this matter any further.

Ming Jian Su didn’t press the issue. “If it’s unrelated, then so be it,” she said calmly. She looked at him with a smile that wasn’t quite a smile. “Are there perhaps too many unruly wandering immortals in Danxue Mountain who lack discipline?”

He forced a smile. “We appreciate your concern, East Abode Master.” He was now certain that she was behind the attack, but Yunze Young Lord’s gaze held a warning, clearly indicating that he didn’t want any further trouble. His anger subsided, and his rationality returned. That sword strike was connected to the treasures meant for the Realm Beyond Heaven. If they traced it back, it would lead to their attempt to assassinate Ming Jian Su.

Ming Jian Su hadn’t expected to convict the entire Danxue Mountain. She had come to the Celestial Pivot Department to force Yunze Young Lord to smooth things over and reach a conclusion before the Heavenly Emperor intervened. After all, she wasn’t an official of the Celestial Pivot Department, and this matter didn’t involve the demons. She had no authority to decide the fate of those feathered immortals. It would only lead to endless arguments. The Emperor was already wary of her and would certainly use this opportunity to undermine her authority. And as for the seizure of the treasures meant for the Realm Beyond Heaven, Danxue Mountain could no longer rely on the Celestial Pivot Department or the Emperor to pursue the matter.

***

With Ming Jian Su gone, Yunze Young Lord finally relaxed.

No bloodshed in the Celestial Pivot Department was a good thing.

Ming Jian Su returned to Dong’e Mountain, feeling carefree.

Feng Chiyue observed her actions and immediately understood. “How troublesome,” she mumbled.

“Until the Mandate of Heaven completely shifts, the Heavenly Emperor is still the ruler,” Ming Jian Su explained. “Many immortals will still answer his call. We’re outnumbered. It’s not the right time to completely break with the Heavenly Court. Moreover, if chaos erupts in the Immortal Realm, the demons might take advantage of the situation.”

“Are you prejudiced against the demons, Elder Sister?” Feng Chiyue asked.

Pure energy formed immortals, while turbid energy formed demons. To be fair, Ming Jian Su didn’t hold any strong prejudices against the demons. However, as an official of the Heavenly Court, she had slain countless demons in the past to earn merits and Cinnabar Jade. This had made her a target for many powerful demons. After explaining this to Feng Chiyue, she added, “The Demon Sovereign’s intentions are unclear. I’m worried about being attacked from both sides.” As for the shifting border between the two realms, frankly, what did it have to do with her?

Feng Chiyue understood. Her Elder Sister, in her efforts to earn a meager living, had indeed gained a notorious reputation in the Demon Realm. Her name was even used to frighten crying children. She thought for a moment, then said, “What about that fox? Hasn’t she sent any information lately? Is she useless now?”

Ming Jian Su had almost forgotten about Tu Shan Liusu. Since her last report about Chang Li and the new Minor Realm, she had vanished. It wouldn’t be difficult to find her, but it wasn’t worth the effort. She thought for a moment. “Junior Sister,” she said, “let’s use the Manman tribe incident as an excuse to host a banquet for the elders of various feathered lineages.”

“Where should we hold it?” Feng Chiyue asked, emerging from Ming Jian Su’s embrace, her dark eyes fixed on her.

The Celestial Feather Ministry didn’t have a suitable space. The only option was Dong’e Mountain. But meeting Feng Chiyue’s gaze, Ming Jian Su understood. Her junior sister wouldn’t allow those birds to set foot on Dong’e Mountain.

“Do you have any suggestions, Junior Sister?” she asked.

Feng Chiyue’s eyes sparkled. “Danxue Mountain,” she said.

Not the new mountain where the Vermilion Birds now resided, but the Phoenix’s ancestral home, the fiery Danxue Mountain.

Chapter 52

Ming Jian Su watched coldly as the Vermilion Birds and Bifang lineages caused a commotion on the Chaos Mirror, thinking, “If it’s not enough, I’ll add more fuel to the fire.” The deeper their hatred towards her, the more likely they were to resort to extreme measures. There weren’t many capable fighters left in Danxue Mountain. Perhaps they would turn their attention to the Realm Beyond Heaven.

“Why bother with such complications?” Feng Chiyue sat up, also watching the arguments unfold, her eyes sparkling with amusement. “Just take your sword and kill those old fools in Danxue Mountain.”

Where had she learned to curse like that? Ming Jian Su glanced at Feng Chiyue, seeing her excitement and delight, and decided not to comment. “If we openly provoke them,” she said, “the Heavenly Emperor will have a reason to intervene.” She wasn’t worried about losing Cinnabar Jade anymore. They were wealthy enough. But she had no intention of antagonizing the entire Immortal Realm. Even with two fists, it was hard to fight off a swarm of enemies.

Feng Chiyue clicked her tongue, rolled her eyes, and turned away, ignoring Ming Jian Su. She scanned the new messages on the Chaos Mirror, then put it away, got off the bed, and walked towards Ming Jian Su, who was sitting at the desk. She settled onto her lap with ease and, looking down at the map of the feathered lineages’ settlements drawn by Que Chenyi, asked, “What are you planning?”

Ming Jian Su wrapped her arms around Feng Chiyue’s waist. “I’m considering whether to host a banquet for the elders of various lineages to foster good relations.” There were no past ties, but that didn’t matter. There would be after this. Her finger tapped on the map. “Shusi, Shengyu, Feiyi… these lineages are all affiliated with the Vermilion Birds, but they’ve been showing signs of wavering recently. We don’t need them to do much, just follow the Celestial Feather Ministry’s rules.”

Feng Chiyue chuckled coldly. “Fair-weather friends.” Seeing the Vermilion Birds and Bifang lineages weaken, they were switching sides. If the balance of power shifted again, wouldn’t they simply change their allegiance once more?

Ming Jian Su was more understanding. “Small lineages prioritize survival, both in the upper and lower realms,” she said gently. They needed both a carrot and a stick to deal with such lineages – wealth to tempt them and force to intimidate them.

Feng Chiyue knew she was right, but the thought still filled her with anger. She leaned back against Ming Jian Su, lowering her gaze, hiding her rage. After a moment, she smiled, turned around, and, resting her hand on Ming Jian Su’s shoulder, asked curiously, “Which is more carefree, the Immortal Realm or the mortal world?”

Ming Jian Su considered this for a moment. “The mortal world,” she replied. When she had first embarked on the path of cultivation, she had no sect and acted freely. Those who had caused her trouble had all died by her sword. She had joined the Dao Sect by chance and, thanks to her exceptional talent, had been nurtured by the sect, her life smooth sailing. Later, she had reached the pinnacle of power. Although she occasionally had to clean up messes created by her juniors, there was no “Heavenly Emperor” above her. People respected and feared her, and no one, like those from Danxue Mountain, dared to cause her trouble.

Feng Chiyue narrowed her eyes. “Do you want to go back?” she asked. She unbuttoned Ming Jian Su’s robe, then carefully buttoned it back up, smoothing out the wrinkles with her fingers, her movements seemingly casual. Sensing a hint of anger from Feng Chiyue, Ming Jian Su’s heart skipped a beat. “No,” she said quickly.

Feng Chiyue smiled, raising an eyebrow. “Don’t you have relatives in the mortal world?” she asked. “Don’t you want to see them?”

What relatives? They were nothing but a source of frustration. Ming Jian Su smiled and said sincerely, “Junior Sister isn’t in the mortal world.” She had complained many times that the Immortal Realm was troublesome and not as carefree as the mortal world, but she had never truly considered returning. That blind, deaf, and dumb Heaven had finally done something right. Her junior sister was the best gift it had ever given her.

Feng Chiyue was easily appeased. Hearing those words, her anger dissipated, and she leaned against Ming Jian Su’s ear, asking, “What was your life like in the mortal world, Elder Sister?”

Knowing that Feng Chiyue wouldn’t have the patience to listen to her entire story, Ming Jian Su teased, “You didn’t want to hear it last time.”

Feng Chiyue remembered. Her eyes darted around, and she snorted. “That was last time. That was the past me.” She glared at Ming Jian Su, her eyes lacking any real threat, and accused, “If you don’t want to tell me, then don’t. Do you think I care? Go tell Ming Yuheng. After all, you both ascended from the mortal realm. You must have a lot in common, right? I’m just someone you entertain when you’re bored…”

Seeing her rambling, Ming Jian Su quickly covered her mouth with her hand. She stifled a laugh and coaxed her, “It’s not that I don’t want to tell you.”

Feng Chiyue glared at her. Only when Ming Jian Su removed her hand did she speak again, her tone imperious. “Then tell me.”

Her past in the mortal world wasn’t particularly exciting. There was little poetic romance amidst the blood and violence, only an endless sea of blood on the path to the Yellow Springs. Ming Jian Su chose a relatively tame scene to start with, expecting her junior sister to fall asleep listening, but to her surprise, Feng Chiyue listened intently, her eyes wide. Ming Jian Su’s heart softened, her voice growing even gentler.

---

In the Celestial Feather Ministry.

Que Chenyi, the Assistant Ministry Head, was busy as usual. Those two weren’t doing their jobs, and she didn’t dare to urge them. Thankfully, the variety of spiritual fruits sent from Dong’e Mountain was increasing, offering her some solace. For a moment, she considered inviting her sisters from her lineage to work in the Ministry, but then she remembered that there weren’t many vacancies left after the last selection process.

As she sighed, Qing Xun entered the hall, her steps quick and light.

Having been knocked over by Qing Xun several times, Que Chenyi quickly moved behind the desk. She cleared her throat and, feigning authority, frowned at her. “Why are you so reckless?”

Qing Xun wasn’t afraid of her. She leaned on the desk, her eyes wide. “We received news from the Celestial Feather Hall,” she said. “Over ten officials have resigned.” She looked around and lowered her voice. “They were all from Danxue Mountain.” She was an Azure Dragon and had a deep-seated hatred for those from Danxue Mountain. Although they hadn’t interacted much or clashed directly, she remembered them all.

Que Chenyi didn’t need to think twice to know that this was Danxue Mountain’s doing. The Changliu Mountain incident had filled the Golden Pheasant Elder with resentment towards the Celestial Feather Ministry, but she had kindly warned him. It was his own fault for falling into the trap.

“Some candidates have also withdrawn their applications and become wandering immortals,” Qing Xun added. She was puzzled. In the past, those from Danxue Mountain had been eager to become officials in the Heavenly Court, aiming to suppress Phoenix Mountain from all angles, preventing them from ever rising again. Now, they were actively retreating. Were they afraid?

Que Chenyi didn’t believe they were afraid. After a moment of thought, she said, “Wandering immortals have more freedom. Unless it’s an emergency, the Celestial Pivot Department won’t interfere in their affairs. I think they’re shedding their shackles to prepare for a desperate attack.”

Qing Xun was startled. “Then I won’t go back to Phoenix Mountain for now,” she said. “I’ll stay in the Celestial Feather Ministry.” She was afraid of being assassinated by those villains from Danxue Mountain on her way back.

“Alright,” Que Chenyi replied. Apart from the puppets, she and Qing Xun were the only ones working in the entire Ministry. They would likely be targeted by Danxue Mountain, perhaps even taken hostage. If they fell into their hands, would the East Abode Master and the Ministry Head come to their rescue? As soon as this thought crossed her mind, she knew the answer. No. Knowing their personalities, they would simply send them away. After a moment of pondering, she said, “I’ll inform the Ministry Head.”

---

In Dong’e Mountain.

After finishing her tale of cultivation and bloodshed, Ming Jian Su received Que Chenyi’s message.

She glanced at it and immediately understood. Danxue Mountain’s retaliation was about to begin. They wanted to abandon their official positions. She had no reason to stop them. After all, she was a kind person, willing to grant everyone their wishes. She didn’t even confiscate their Cinnabar Jade. After removing their names, she promptly posted a recruitment notice on the Chaos Mirror. There were so many feathered immortals. How many were eager to become officials? Would they really miss those few?

---

Just a few days after those from Danxue Mountain resigned from their positions and abandoned their candidacy, a plea for help arrived from the Manman tribe. The Nine-Headed Bird had attacked their settlement! They had initially contacted the Celestial Pivot Department, but the Department claimed they wouldn’t interfere in private disputes between wandering immortals. Left with no other choice, the Manman tribe turned to the Celestial Feather Ministry.

The Nine-Headed Bird was a vicious creature, known for its ferocity, aggression, and cruelty. Thousands of years ago, the entire Nine-Headed Bird lineage had been eradicated by the Phoenix Sovereign and other feathered lineages for causing chaos. Only one had survived, vowing to abandon its evil ways, and had fled to an island in the sea.

Feng Chiyue frowned. The Manman tribe had given her gifts before. She had a good impression of them. “Why has the Nine-Headed Bird emerged?” she asked with concern.

“It has something to do with those from Danxue Mountain,” Ming Jian Su said coldly. In the past, whenever the feathered lineages requested assistance from the Celestial Feather Ministry, the Ministry would gather Feather Guards from various lineages to provide aid. However, after the reforms, many idle officials had been dismissed, and the Feather Guards practically ceased to exist. “I’ll go myself.” This was most likely a trap set by Danxue Mountain, but it was also an opportunity for her to send those from Danxue Mountain to where they belonged.

Feng Chiyue grabbed her sleeve. “I’m coming with you,” she said without hesitation.

Ming Jian Su wasn’t keen on bringing her along. She didn’t know how many allies those from Danxue Mountain had called upon. This mission was somewhat dangerous. She looked at Feng Chiyue and blinked. “The Celestial Feather Ministry needs you in charge, Junior Sister,” she said.

“When have I ever been in charge?” Feng Chiyue retorted. The burden had long since shifted to Ming Jian Su and Que Chenyi. She was merely a figurehead. “You want to eliminate those villains from Danxue Mountain.” Her tone was firm. She stared at Ming Jian Su, her gaze unwavering.

Ming Jian Su softened. “It’s dangerous,” she sighed.

“Wasn’t it dangerous when we went to the battlefield?” Feng Chiyue said dismissively. “It’s precisely because it’s dangerous that I need to go with you.”

“Or I can just go to Danxue Mountain now and kill them all.” Her voice held a chilling indifference towards life, a quiet ruthlessness. Ming Jian Su studied her expression and realized she wasn’t joking. Her junior sister was capable of such a thing, but she simply preferred not to resort to violence.

Ming Jian Su took her hand. “Junior Sister,” she said, her voice muffled, “don’t you hate seeing blood?”

Feng Chiyue, having achieved her goal, withdrew her coldness and smiled sweetly. “Yes, I do,” she said, nodding. Before Ming Jian Su could respond, she added cheerfully, “But I want to be with you even more.” That way, her Elder Sister wouldn’t get hurt and wouldn’t have a chance to “fake her death” again.

---

In the Manman Tribe’s territory.

The Manman tribe wasn’t large. They were peaceful creatures, averse to fighting and killing.

The moment they were attacked by the Nine-Headed Bird, they had retreated to their settlement and activated their protective barrier. However, even with this protection, eight of their members had died. Five had been killed by the Nine-Headed Bird, while the remaining three, their partners dead, had chosen to follow them in death. Manman birds had one eye and one wing and never flew alone.

“Has the Celestial Feather Ministry responded yet?” the Manman Chief asked anxiously.

“The Assistant Ministry Head agreed and asked us to wait,” the Manman bird in charge of contacting the Ministry said, tears welling in her eyes. She was afraid, but she was also relieved. The Nine-Headed Bird outside was incredibly powerful. They couldn’t hold out for long.

“How long can our barrier last?” the Chief asked.

No one answered. The Manman birds’ faces were pale. They had lived relatively peaceful lives. How could they have constantly maintained their barrier? Compared to its original strength, it had weakened considerably. The Chief frowned, sensing the earth-shattering tremors outside their settlement. “Use Cinnabar Jade to power the barrier if you don’t have enough magic power!” he cried.

---

Outside the barrier.

A disheveled wandering immortal in red stood on a boulder, a monstrous nine-headed bird, its body crimson and its shape resembling a duck, manifested behind him. He had once had ten heads, but one had been severed by the Phoenix Sovereign during the Nine-Headed Bird lineage’s downfall. He had cultivated for a long time, his power increasing, but that lost tenth head never regrew. Recently, someone had contacted him, claiming to have a method to restore it, on the condition that he attacked the Manman tribe. Dealing with those weak Manman birds? It was child’s play.

A sinister smile played on his lips. He channeled his magic power casually and struck the barrier with his palm. A deafening explosion, like a thousand thunderclaps, reverberated through the air. Light shimmered within the mountain, but it wasn’t a good omen. It was the barrier’s death throes. The Manman birds huddled together in their settlement, their swords in their hands, gazing at him with fear and hatred.

His smile widened, and a cruel glint flashed in his eyes. Those dark, sinister eyes weren’t bright but resembled a deep abyss, filled with a chilling darkness. A few more attacks, and the barrier protecting the Manman tribe would collapse. He was about to strike again when a clear phoenix cry suddenly pierced the air. His smile vanished, and he looked up abruptly – he saw a beautiful five-colored phoenix. Memories flooded back, and a wave of hatred surged within him. He forgot about the Manman tribe and, transforming into a crimson blur, charged towards the phoenix, his magic power swirling around him, forming countless sharp blades.

It was Feng Yao.

She channeled her power into her sword, its light weaving through the red glow like a spark dancing amidst smoke. She retreated, putting distance between herself and the Nine-Headed Bird, and frowned. “Didn’t you vow to abandon your evil ways, Realized One?” Her words only fueled his rage. He had been forced to live on a remote island, unable to leave. How could he not hate them?

Sunlight streamed through the forest, sharp and bright. Feng Yao wasn’t alone, but she had been the fastest, arriving at the Manman settlement first. As she questioned the Nine-Headed Bird, several figures descended from the sky, their gazes fixed on him coldly. Seeing reinforcements, the Manman birds peeked out from behind their barrier, cheering for the phoenix.

The Nine-Headed Bird looked at Feng Yao with disdain. “A mere junior dares to obstruct me?”

Feng Yao’s expression was solemn. She had only read about the Nine-Headed Bird in ancient texts. She knew that this last surviving member was incredibly powerful. But she couldn’t back down. “It’s not too late to retreat, Realized One,” she said in a deep voice.

“Retreat?” He laughed as if she had told a joke. He threw back his head, and the nine heads of his manifested form let out a strange, discordant screech.

The sound pierced her ears like needles. Her face paled, and her heart pounded like a drum.

He didn’t say anything more. The blazing sun above suddenly dimmed as if splashed with ink. Thunder rumbled, the ground shook, and a low, buzzing sound, like a heart-wrenching wail, came from the distant horizon. The mountain crumbled, and amidst the dust and debris, an ominous red light appeared, hurling rocks like meteors towards Feng Yao and her allies.

A fierce wind erupted, its deafening roar threatening to tear everything apart. The Nine-Headed Bird laughed maniacally, his powerful magic power surging like a tidal wave, clashing with the sword energy in a thunderous explosion. If it had only been him, Feng Yao and the other immortals could have handled it, but from the swirling dust, over ten figures in various robes emerged. Feng Yao could hardly believe her eyes. These were all feathered immortals from Danxue Mountain! They had joined forces with the Nine-Headed Bird? How dare they attack so brazenly?

“The phoenixes have delivered themselves to us? Excellent,” one of the immortals said, a sinister smile twisting his lips.

The sky was dark, swirling with red light, an air of malice hanging heavy in the air.

“The Chaos Mirror’s connection has been severed,” a Manman bird said, her teeth chattering.

Feng Yao’s heart sank. She couldn’t understand what the Manman tribe possessed that would warrant such a massive attack. Were these all the enemies? A wave of power swept outwards, and blood splattered in an instant.

The Nine-Headed Bird’s eyes turned crimson. “Leave the phoenix to me,” he rasped, his voice like gravel grinding against stone.

But just as he charged towards Feng Yao and the others, a sword beam, capable of cleaving through anything, descended from the sky, splitting the dark heavens in two. That golden light was so fast that the arrogant Nine-Headed Bird couldn’t even react before being pierced by a six-foot long, five-inch wide sword. He was flung towards the cliff face, the sword embedded in his body. After a thunderous crash, the sword remained, impaling him, as if oblivious to everything else.

An agonizing scream ripped through the air. He couldn’t maintain his human form and reverted to his true form. Seeing him attacked, the Swan Goose Elder from Danxue Mountain instinctively tried to pull out the sword. But as soon as he reached out, his hand was shredded by a storm of sword intent before even getting close. He quickly withdrew his hand, only to see a bloody stump where his wrist had been. Sword energy surged through his flesh, and after a few breaths, he finally let out a scream of pain.

“There are gods watching from above, Fellow Daoist. Didn’t you know?” A chuckle echoed through the air. Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue emerged from a burst of sword light. She retrieved the sword and, glancing down at the dying Nine-Headed Bird, turned her gaze to the Swan Goose Elder. “This ‘World in a Pot’ conceals everything from the Heavenly Court,” she said calmly. “Why don’t you call out your allies? Don’t tell me you thought you could kill me with this Nine-Headed Bird? If that’s the case, I’ll have to send you to the Yellow Springs first.”

“World in a Pot?” These words added fuel to the fire, inflaming his anger.

But Ming Jian Su wasn’t done yet. She smiled faintly. “First, there were those dozens of feathered juniors, then Yuan Yao,” she said. “You’ve crafted a fine artifact. It should be renamed ‘Coffin in the Sky.’”

The Celestial Pivot Department had hastily closed those previous cases, but those from Danxue Mountain had long suspected Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue’s involvement. Hearing her confession now, their rage intensified. “Indeed, it should be renamed,” the Swan Goose Elder said, his voice filled with hatred. They would bury Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue here today! He flicked his sleeve, summoning three incense sticks. As smoke curled upwards, he bowed and called out, “Ancestors, lend me your aid!” As soon as he finished speaking, three shadowy figures emerged from the smoke, transforming into three youthful Daoist priests with solemn expressions.

Ming Jian Su glanced at them and almost laughed. “Manifestations from the Realm Beyond Heaven?”

Feng Chiyue looked at them with disappointment. “Empty vessels,” she said.

“Don’t worry, Junior Sister,” Ming Jian Su said reassuringly. “We’ll settle the score later.”

The Swan Goose Elder’s face paled, his initial confidence replaced by terror and anger. They had spent a fortune summoning these beings from the Realm Beyond Heaven, only to receive three mere manifestations?! Why hadn’t their ancestors warned them? Yuan Yao Star Monarch had descended in his true form and hadn’t been a match for Ming Jian Su. Could they really expect these three manifestations to be equivalent to three Yuan Yaos?!

The three Daoist priests ignored his resentment.

Seeing Yuan Yao Star Monarch’s fate, how could they not be cautious? These two had even ventured into the Realm Beyond Heaven and defeated the arrogant Ming He Star Monarch. They certainly wouldn’t risk descending in their true forms. It would be best if they won this battle, but if they lost… well, they lost. “We’re all members of the feathered lineages,” one of the youthful Daoist priests said, sighing. “Why must we fight amongst ourselves?” His gaze settled on Feng Chiyue.

Feng Chiyue smiled sweetly. “We don’t have to fight.”

He raised an eyebrow, a flicker of hope in his eyes. He had reached the Realm Beyond Heaven and, although he hadn’t completely severed his ties with the world, it would be wonderful if this conflict could be resolved peacefully.

But before he could speak, Feng Chiyue added casually, “Just kill yourselves.”

Chapter 51

It would take some time to confirm the location of the new Minor Realm after its initial detection. No one in the Immortal Realm mentioned it, and Ming Jian Su didn’t bother asking.

She was more concerned about Chang Li’s movements, wondering if she would uncover any clues related to the Phoenix Sovereign and, consequently, her junior sister. She had two options: remain passive or secretly infiltrate the Demon Abyss and eliminate Chang Li. However, if the Heavenly Emperor was determined, a thousand Chang Lis would rise for every one she killed. Her junior sister’s true identity would eventually be revealed. It was better to use Chang Li’s absence to consolidate the feathered lineages further, eliminating those who supported Danxue Mountain, even Danxue Mountain itself.

Ming Jian Su looked down at the drowsy Feng Chiyue and said softly, “Junior Sister, would you give me a Heavenly Phoenix Fruit tree?”

Feng Chiyue didn’t ask why, simply nodding repeatedly. She rolled over, covering her ears with her sleeve, clearly unwilling to listen to Ming Jian Su’s chatter.

Ming Jian Su chuckled helplessly.

---

In the new Danxue Mountain.

Since the Vermilion Bird Elder’s death, the elders of various lineages had been in low spirits. They had visited South Vermilion Lord Mountain several times but hadn’t even caught a glimpse of Chang Li. Before his death, the Vermilion Bird Elder had warned them not to act rashly, but seeing the Celestial Feather Ministry’s relentless encroachment, they couldn’t suppress their anxiety. If they waited any longer, they might lose any chance of regaining their lost power. They had thought the Heavenly Emperor would be their backer, but when trouble arose, he had been the first to retreat.

“The Celestial Feather Ministry has established their own Artifact Crafting and Alchemy Palaces,” the Golden Pheasant Elder said, his face grim. He sat cross-legged behind a bronze table, his massive shadow, cast by the candlelight, looming on the giant pillars adorned with carved dragons and phoenixes like a menacing monster. “They’ve even blocked our direct access to the Heavenly Prosperity Department.” Without registering with the Celestial Feather Ministry, they couldn’t obtain documents from the Treasury. But in the past, if they had a good relationship with the Heavenly Prosperity Department, they could easily acquire what they needed without any paperwork.

“They’ve also established a library,” the Swan Goose Elder added. “It might not have many scriptures yet, but it contains a vast collection of historical records, likely provided by Phoenix Mountain. Promotion and recruitment now require passing tests on history, and the Celestial Feather Ministry’s collection is considered the definitive source. This means that all our past efforts in compiling those records were in vain.” Even immortals enjoyed embellishing their own history, creating fantastical tales and depicting a glorious and thrilling past to inspire awe in future generations. Some feathered lineages had pledged their allegiance to Danxue Mountain after seeing the newly compiled historical records. Once they discovered that it was all a fabrication, they would surely be disillusioned and abandon them.

“The most pressing issue is that the Vermilion Bird Elder declared his clan’s assets as his personal property, and they’ve all been confiscated by the Celestial Feather Ministry,” the Swan Goose Elder said. Although he understood that the Vermilion Bird Elder had done so to protect the other lineages from being implicated in the collusion with the Demon Abyss, he still felt a surge of anger, his gaze lingering on the Vermilion Birds with displeasure. That wasn’t just the Vermilion Bird Clan’s wealth, but the accumulated wealth of the Swan Goose, Golden Pheasant, Bifang, and other lineages! It was all gone, given to the Celestial Feather Ministry. He felt a pang of heartache.

“Cinnabar Jade, artifacts, elixirs… those are trivial. But those mountains with spirit mines…” The Bifang Elder hesitated, then said carefully, “Can we buy them back?”

They would rather simply take them by force, but they were no match for Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue. After a moment of silence, the Golden Pheasant Elder said, “Will the Celestial Feather Ministry agree?”

The Swan Goose Elder lowered his eyelids, his eyes filled with weariness. “There’s always been a system for buying and selling. The Celestial Feather Ministry has no reason to refuse.”

The matter of buying back the mines remained unresolved. The elders couldn’t reach a consensus.

***

While they hesitated, news about the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit suddenly appeared on the Chaos Mirror. Not only the feathered lineages but also other clans were interested in this rare and valuable fruit. Since the Fall of the Phoenix a thousand years ago, many precious spiritual fruits had withered and died. Only a few had survived on Danxue Mountain, but due to the volcanic eruptions, the entire mountain was now a fiery inferno, avoided by all immortals.

Whether the news was true or false, the feathered lineages wouldn’t let it go, especially the Vermilion Birds and the Bifang. After some investigation, they traced the source to an obscure wandering immortal from the Golden Pheasant lineage, Yuan Wuxin. The outcome was better than they had expected. They had initially assumed that Phoenix Mountain was behind it. The Golden Pheasant Elder rushed to Yuan Wuxin’s cave and, without much effort, obtained a Heavenly Phoenix Fruit from her.

He flew into a rage, his bell-like eyes bulging as he glared at her. “Why didn’t you inform the clan about such a major discovery?” he roared.

Yuan Wuxin looked at him innocently. “I didn’t recognize it.” Wasn’t it customary to share any new discoveries on the Chaos Mirror? She wasn’t the only one doing it.

The Golden Pheasant Elder was so angry that he almost fainted. He channeled his magic power, ready to strike her.

She respected him as an elder, but she wasn’t overly afraid of him. Seeing his intention, her eyes turned cold, and she summoned her weapon, holding it defensively.

The Golden Pheasant Elder was furious, but the immortal accompanying him managed to restrain him. He smiled apologetically at Yuan Wuxin and asked, “Where did you find this Heavenly Phoenix Fruit?”

Yuan Wuxin glared at the elder, a disdainful sneer twisting her lips.

The feathered lineages had diverse personalities, especially the wandering immortals, who were often rebellious and unruly. The accompanying immortal felt a surge of displeasure but didn’t forget his purpose. He bowed to Yuan Wuxin and apologized, then asked her about the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit again.

Yuan Wuxin stopped playing games. “Changliu Mountain,” she said and sent them away.

The feathered immortals were stunned. Changliu Mountain, now under the Celestial Feather Ministry’s control, contained a Cinnabar Jade mine. It was a valuable mountain, but they had never found any trace of Heavenly Phoenix Fruits despite mining it for many years. They all assumed that Yuan Wuxin was lying. After some hesitation, the Golden Pheasant Elder sent one of his clansmen, skilled in stealth, to investigate.

***

Two days later, new gossip emerged on the Chaos Mirror, and the topic of the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit faded into oblivion. The Golden Pheasant immortal who had gone to investigate returned to Danxue Mountain, presenting a recording jade slip to the elders. There, on a sheer cliff face, nestled in a crevice, grew a Heavenly Phoenix Fruit tree, its branches laden with heavy, half-ripe fruits resembling phoenixes taking flight. The immortal had even picked a few fruits, unable to resist sampling two on his way back. The remaining ones were presented to the elders.

“There’s actually a Heavenly Phoenix Fruit tree in Changliu Mountain,” the Golden Pheasant immortal confirmed. “I also saw some Chongming birds nearby. They weren’t Mountain Patrol Emissaries. They seemed to be searching for something.”

One Heavenly Phoenix Fruit tree meant there could be more… They had tried to cultivate these trees in the past, but for some unknown reason, they had always failed. The appearance of a wild tree in Changliu Mountain suggested that the environment might be suitable for their growth. The elders were both excited and apprehensive. They exchanged glances, then quickly reached a decision: they had to buy back Changliu Mountain before the Celestial Feather Ministry or Phoenix Mountain discovered it!

***

The Golden Pheasant Elder went to the Celestial Feather Ministry personally.

His face was tense, his eyes cold and determined.

In the past, he could enter and exit the Celestial Feather Ministry freely, but now he had to register his name first. The difference was stark, and resentment simmered within him.

The gatekeeper was a puppet. Although it had a human appearance, it couldn’t read his emotions. After sending a message to the Ministry, it bowed to him and said stiffly, “Please enter, Fellow Daoist.”

He flicked his sleeve, scoffing inwardly. Who would call a puppet “Fellow Daoist”? As he walked further, he heard the rumbling of thunder and saw a thunder pillar suspending a barely alive Bai Zifeng. A wave of grief and sorrow washed over him, intensifying his hatred towards Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue.

However, snippets of conversation from passing officials reached his ears, forcing him to suppress his boiling emotions.

“Why isn’t there any news about the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit on the Chaos Mirror anymore?”

“Phoenix Mountain is also looking for it! I wonder if they’ve found any clues. If there really is a Heavenly Phoenix Fruit tree, wouldn’t we have a chance to transform into phoenixes?”

The Golden Pheasant Elder’s face turned pale. Just because the Chaos Mirror was silent didn’t mean the feathered lineages had forgotten. If he didn’t act quickly, someone else might beat him to it! The main gate of the Celestial Feather Ministry’s hall was closed, guarded by two puppet servants. He had heard about Feng Chiyue’s laziness. He changed direction and headed towards the side hall, where someone was always on duty.

***

Que Chenyi had already received news of the Golden Pheasant Elder’s arrival from the puppet. He had followed protocol, and she had nothing better to do. She couldn’t refuse him entry without a valid reason.

“So it’s the Golden Pheasant Immortal Monarch from Danxue Mountain,” she said, her lips curving into a polite smile, but her eyes remaining cold. She didn’t get up from her seat.

The Golden Pheasant Elder took a deep breath, reminding himself not to argue with a junior. “I’m here to buy a mountain,” he said directly.

“Buy a mountain?” Que Chenyi drew out her words, smiling. “Which one has caught your eye, Immortal Monarch?”

“Changliu Mountain,” he said calmly.

Que Chenyi knew that Changliu Mountain was one of the mountains they had confiscated from the Vermilion Birds. He was so eager to buy it back after such a short time. Was there some hidden treasure there? She was curious but replied, “I’ll have to consult the Ministry Head about this.”

The Golden Pheasant Elder lowered his gaze. “Thank you, Assistant Ministry Head,” he said.

---

In Dong’e Mountain.

Feng Chiyue received Que Chenyi’s message and called out to Ming Jian Su.

A cold glint flashed in Ming Jian Su’s eyes. She summoned the Chaos Mirror and replied, “Phoenix Mountain is also interested in Changliu Mountain.”

Upon seeing this message, Que Chenyi’s eyes flickered. She hadn’t heard anything about Phoenix Mountain wanting to buy a mountain. The Ministry Head’s words implied one thing: a bidding war. After a moment of thought, she looked at the Golden Pheasant Elder, feigning distress. “Phoenix Mountain beat you to it,” she said.

“What?” His expression changed dramatically. Meeting Que Chenyi’s questioning gaze, he quickly composed himself. When his heart finally stopped pounding, he continued, “Have they already bought it?”

Que Chenyi narrowed her eyes. “Not yet.”

He let out a breath. “Changliu Mountain is still available. We can also buy it.” Seeing her hesitate, he steeled himself. “Changliu Mountain contains a Cinnabar Jade mine that can be mined for a thousand years,” he said. “We’re willing to exchange it for three mountains with Cinnabar Jade mines, along with various other treasures.” They had initially planned to offer a one-for-one exchange, but with Phoenix Mountain involved, things were different.

Que Chenyi observed him calmly, neither nodding nor shaking her head. “The Cinnabar Jade mine in Changliu Mountain is like an old man on his deathbed,” she said casually. “Is it truly worth such a high price?”

He frowned. Had Phoenix Mountain also offered three mines for Changliu Mountain? He gritted his teeth, the muscles in his jaw twitching. “Four mountains with Cinnabar Jade mines,” he said. There weren’t many mountains in the Immortal Realm that contained Cinnabar Jade, and most of them were controlled by human officials. Four mountains for one was a significant sacrifice. But the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit held a special significance for the feathered lineages. This was merely a temporary concession. In the future, they would have a chance to reclaim everything they had lost. He repeated this to himself, trying to ease his frustration.

“The Cinnabar Jade mine in Changliu Mountain isn’t worth that much,” Que Chenyi said, lowering her gaze. “Let’s discuss the sale after our Ministry reassesses its value. Otherwise, people will accuse us of cheating, damaging our reputation.”

Her sudden concern for fairness didn’t move him but only heightened his anxiety. If the Celestial Feather Ministry reassessed the mountain’s value, the secret of the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit tree would be exposed! Then it wouldn’t be a matter of a few mines anymore. All the feathered lineages would be fighting for it! “That won’t happen! We’re doing this willingly!” he exclaimed, his voice sharp.

Que Chenyi smiled faintly.

“In addition to the exchange agreement,” he added, “I can also establish a new pact on behalf of Danxue Mountain.” He didn’t hesitate. He drafted a pact, affixed his name seal, and stated that the purchase of Changliu Mountain was entirely voluntary, and they wouldn’t hold any grudges. He had done everything he could. If he was still rejected, he wasn’t sure if he could maintain his composure. His eyes were cold, and his aura unconsciously surged outwards.

“Alright,” Que Chenyi said, feigning reluctance. She pretended to send a message to Feng Chiyue. After a moment, she looked up at the Golden Pheasant Elder and waved her hand generously. “Our Ministry Head said you can have that Swan Goose at the entrance as a bonus.”

The Golden Pheasant Elder was so angry that he almost choked. What “bonus”? She was clearly trying to humiliate them! But he needed Changliu Mountain. He couldn’t antagonize the Celestial Feather Ministry before the deal was finalized. He urged her to proceed with the paperwork and only relaxed when he saw the Celestial Feather Ministry Head’s seal on the agreement. He glared at Que Chenyi, his eyes filled with mockery and malice. Afraid of losing control, he turned and left – but just as he exited the Ministry, a blood-soaked white figure slammed into his face. Rage surged within him, assuming it was some kind of sneak attack. He channeled his vast magic power and struck the figure. With a loud bang, his power shattered the figure into a bloody mist, spraying blood everywhere.

A puppet servant, standing amidst the clouds nearby, said in a monotone, “Please don’t forget the Swan Goose, Immortal Monarch.”

He realized with horror that he had just killed Bai Zifeng, the Swan Goose!

---

Despite his fury, Que Chenyi felt a sense of relief.

That Swan Goose, hanging outside the Ministry, had terrified many of the weaker feathered immortals. He hadn’t been completely dead and would occasionally let out a few eerie moans, sending chills down their spines.

Was the Celestial Feather Ministry some kind of shady place? Finally, they had gotten rid of that Swan Goose.

---

In Dong’e Mountain.

Ming Jian Su received news from Que Chenyi that the Golden Pheasant Elder had purchased Changliu Mountain. She chuckled coldly.

Did they really think they could get their hands on the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit? What a delusional dream. She had already tampered with the tree. It would wither and die soon.

“What did you do, Elder Sister?” Feng Chiyue, bored, finally remembered her duties as the Ministry Head and asked casually.

“I acquired four large mines from them,” Ming Jian Su said, raising an eyebrow.

“They won’t miss them,” Feng Chiyue said with a snort. Those guys were loaded.

“Cinnabar Jade mines,” Ming Jian Su added.

Surprise flickered in Feng Chiyue’s eyes. After a moment of thought, she figured it out. “You used a Heavenly Phoenix Fruit to exchange them, didn’t you?”

Ming Jian Su nodded. “And it’s not over yet.” What she truly desired was those traitors’ lives, not their wealth. This was just a step towards provoking those feathered lineages in Danxue Mountain.

***

The first thing the Golden Pheasant Elder did after obtaining the agreement was to arrange the handover with the Celestial Feather Ministry. Since they were the ones eager to acquire Changliu Mountain, the feathered immortals guarding the four mines relinquished control quickly, afraid of jeopardizing the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit tree. Once the handover was complete, the Vermilion Birds, Golden Pheasants, Swan Gooses, and Bifang all sent their most promising young disciples to guard Changliu Mountain, forbidding anyone from approaching the tree. However, their meticulous care didn’t result in the fruit’s ripening but rather its withering. The shriveled fruits fell from the branches before reaching maturity, either tumbling down the cliff or rotting in the soil.

This change alarmed the elders. They immediately sought the help of a skilled cultivator from the Poisonous Wasp lineage, asking him to tend to the tree. However, even the most experienced elder from that lineage could only shake his head, claiming it was beyond saving. Before leaving, he said, “This tree seems to have died unnaturally.”

Died unnaturally? They had been so careful after acquiring the mountain. Not even a fly could get through! If there was foul play, it must have happened before they bought it! Was it those from Phoenix Mountain? Impossible! Then it must be the Celestial Feather Ministry! The Golden Pheasant Elder’s face turned pale, his body trembling like a withered leaf in the cold wind. He realized he might have been tricked, but he refused to believe it.

***

Just as despair settled over Danxue Mountain, new information about the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit appeared on the Chaos Mirror.

This time, it wasn’t someone claiming to have stumbled upon the fruit in the mountains. It was a young feathered immortal, boasting about her experience while visiting the Celestial Feather Ministry.

“Do you guys know what this is? A Heavenly Phoenix Fruit!”

“By the way, how did you know that the Assistant Ministry Head treated me to a Heavenly Phoenix Fruit?”

The Celestial Feather Ministry had Heavenly Phoenix Fruits?! Those in Danxue Mountain knew exactly what the Ministry possessed. If they had to obtain them from somewhere, it could only be Dong’e Mountain! Connecting the dots, the elders immediately recalled the incident at Changliu Mountain. How could they not understand? That Heavenly Phoenix Fruit tree had been moved there from Dong’e Mountain! They had been blinded by the allure of the fruit, losing several Cinnabar Jade mines in the process! Their rationality was instantly overwhelmed by rage. Danxue Mountain had been willing to reconcile, to let bygones be bygones, but Dong’e Mountain had deliberately set a trap and lured them in. They had been willing to take a step back, but Dong’e Mountain had never intended to let them go!

The young immortal’s boast fueled the desires of all the feathered lineages. Some even started visiting the Celestial Feather Ministry frequently, hoping to receive the Assistant Ministry Head’s favor. Meanwhile, the previous news about the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit resurfaced, and curious immortals, following the clues, traced it back to Changliu Mountain. But this mountain, once belonging to the Celestial Feather Ministry, had suddenly been returned to its original owners, sparking all sorts of speculation.

Infuriated, the Vermilion Birds took to the Chaos Mirror, accusing the Celestial Feather Ministry of deception, claiming they had been cheated out of several mines and countless treasures.

Que Chenyi, unwilling to let them spread lies, posted the exchange agreement on the Chaos Mirror, along with the Golden Pheasant Elder’s pact, bearing his name seal. It was clear that the Golden Pheasant lineage had willingly purchased Changliu Mountain. What did it have to do with them? The agreement clearly stated that the value of Changliu Mountain lay in its Cinnabar Jade mine. There was no mention of any Heavenly Phoenix Fruit.

— I get it now. It was a wandering immortal from Danxue Mountain who found the Heavenly Phoenix Fruit, and they decided to buy back Changliu Mountain. They knew the fruit was incredibly valuable and were willing to pay a price far exceeding the mountain’s actual worth. Perhaps some other lineages were also interested in the mountain. Otherwise, there would have been no need for them to be so hasty.

— The Heavenly Phoenix Fruit withered and died. Did Danxue Mountain just shoot themselves in the foot? Are they trying to use the Chaos Mirror to slander the Celestial Feather Ministry and demand the return of those four mines? How shameless.

The Chaos Mirror erupted in insults directed at the Vermilion Birds, Golden Pheasants, and other lineages of Danxue Mountain.

In a small, unnoticed corner, Zhu Wan discreetly made deals with some wandering immortals.

Why hadn’t she realized how useful the Chaos Mirror was before? She couldn’t win a debate against a crowd, but she could hire others with Cinnabar Jade! Seeing Danxue Mountain rendered speechless, she felt a surge of satisfaction.

---

Inside Danxue Mountain, the lineages’ fury reached its peak.

The conflict on the Chaos Mirror added fuel to the fire.

It was clearly Ming Jian Su who had been cunning and deceitful, so why were they being portrayed as the ones at fault?

“Dong’e Mountain has gone too far! Are we going to keep hiding like this?”

“Without Chang Li, none of us can stand against the East Abode Master.” Perhaps even Chang Li wouldn’t be a match for Ming Jian Su. After all, even Yuan Yao Star Monarch, who had come from the Realm Beyond Heaven, had been defeated.

“Yuan Yao Star Monarch wasn’t the most powerful in the Realm Beyond Heaven. We underestimated the East Abode Master’s strength. She might be able to handle one Yuan Yao, but what about three, four, or even more?”

“Should we ask those seniors in the Realm Beyond Heaven for help? The price would be steep.”

“If we don’t eliminate Ming Jian Su, we’ll pay an even greater price!” A powerful voice boomed.

If Danxue Mountain couldn’t coexist with Dong’e Mountain, they had to strike first!

Chapter 50

That wasn’t the answer Ming Jian Su wanted to hear, but it was within her expectations.

Alas, her junior sister was always so honest, unwilling to even tell a white lie to please her. Fortunately, there was no other possibility regarding the past. She, Ming Jian Su, was the only one who had brought Feng Chiyue out of the Abyss of the Milky Way. After calming herself, Ming Jian Su thought for a moment, then asked, “Aren’t all immortals beautiful, with bright eyes and crescent eyebrows? How could anyone be truly ugly?”

Feng Chiyue nodded firmly. “They are.”

“Then who does Junior Sister find ugly?” Ming Jian Su asked. She had initially wanted to ask who Feng Chiyue found the most beautiful, but she changed her mind at the last moment. If she asked about beauty, Feng Chiyue would likely say it was herself.

“Everyone except Elder Sister is ugly,” Feng Chiyue replied without hesitation.

Ming Jian Su chuckled, embracing Feng Chiyue. This meant that even if she had encountered someone else in the Abyss of the Milky Way, she would have only followed her out.

“Junior Sister,” Ming Jian Su said again.

Feng Chiyue looked at her suspiciously, clearly reaching her limit. If Ming Jian Su called her “Junior Sister” one more time, she would push her away.

Reading her mind, Ming Jian Su immediately fell silent. She gazed at Feng Chiyue, her eyelashes fluttering like delicate butterfly wings.

After spending some time cuddling with Feng Chiyue on the bed, Ming Jian Su finally got up and straightened her clothes.

The Minister of Fortune had been taken away by the Celestial Pivot Department. She wondered what his fate would be. He wouldn’t be executed, and it was unlikely that his sentence would be increased. At most, he would be stripped of his position and forbidden from managing the Heavenly Prosperity Department. Of course, if the Heavenly Emperor intervened, that would be a different story. Ming Jian Su didn’t go to the Celestial Pivot Department to watch the spectacle but observed the proceedings on the Chaos Mirror.

Unlike the Vermilion Bird Elder, who had been shackled and disheveled, the Minister of Fortune, invited to the Grand Court of Justice, managed to maintain his dignity, sitting calmly on a chair as if he were merely a guest.

Yunze Young Lord was troubled. The Celestial Pivot Department had always been a peaceful department. Who would have thought that so many incidents would occur in such a short time? And every single one was related to Feng Chiyue. The turmoil hadn’t subsided with the East Abode Master’s return. On the contrary, it was escalating under their combined efforts. Before the trial began, Yunze Young Lord looked around anxiously, hoping that Ming Jian Su wouldn’t appear. Only when he didn’t see her or any other officials from the Celestial Feather Ministry did he relax slightly.

“Why did you forge the Emperor’s decree, Star Monarch?” Yunze Young Lord asked, his expression serious.

The Minister of Fortune frowned. Although he was no longer under that oppressive pressure, he still felt uneasy. “That was the Emperor’s decree,” he insisted. “It bore the imprint of the Heavenly Constitution Seal.”

Yunze Young Lord didn’t believe him. He sighed. “If it had truly carried the power of the Heavenly Dao, how could it have been destroyed? The decree from the Celestial Mother that the Ministry Head and the East Abode Master possess is genuine.”

The Minister of Fortune couldn’t answer this question. How could he know why the Heavenly Constitution Seal had been so easily erased by Feng Chiyue? Meeting Yunze Young Lord’s gaze, he scoffed. “Perhaps the Ministry Head used some unorthodox method. If you wish to confirm the decree’s authenticity, Young Lord, simply consult the Emperor.”

It was already the second day, and no emissary from the Purple Empyrean Palace had come to defend the Minister of Fortune. This meant that the Emperor had abandoned him. Yunze Young Lord looked at him with a mixture of pity and sympathy. “Why do you insist on lying, Star Monarch? The evidence is clear.” Seeing that he was still defiant, he softened his tone. “I’ve already sent someone to the Purple Empyrean Palace to consult the Emperor.”

The Minister of Fortune remained calm and composed. He was confident that the emissary from the Purple Empyrean Palace would confirm his innocence. Then he would drag the Heavenly Prosperity Department into this mess and, with the help of their Thunder Officials, reclaim the vast wealth that had been swallowed by the Celestial Feather Ministry.

— The Minister of Fortune seems so confident. Could it be that it was actually the Emperor’s decree?

The immortals watching the trial on the Chaos Mirror started discussing again.

— The Heavenly Constitution Seal is a symbol of the Heavenly Dao, suppressing the heavens and earth, subduing all immortals. Under its authority, all beings submit. How could it be erased? I think the Minister of Fortune has been brainwashed.

— Even if it was the Emperor’s decree, no one would admit it. It would confirm that the Emperor is mistreating the feathered lineages and the Four Seas. Moreover, it would damage the authority of the Heavenly Constitution Seal and the Emperor himself. This humble Daoist has cultivated for a thousand years and has never heard of the Heavenly Constitution Seal being destroyed.

***

This turn of events had caught the Heavenly Emperor off guard. He naturally couldn’t admit that he had issued the decree. The gossip among the immortals was a minor inconvenience. If the Emperor and the Heavenly Constitution Seal were questioned and their authority undermined, it would certainly shift the Mandate of Heaven, threatening his throne. He wouldn’t deign to appear personally. He simply sent a young attendant with a message.

The attendant quickly arrived at the Celestial Pivot Department and, ignoring the Minister of Fortune’s pleading gaze, said coldly, “The Emperor never issued such a decree.”

The Minister of Fortune’s triumphant smile froze, replaced by astonishment. His expression, a mixture of shock and an unfaded grin, looked incredibly bizarre. He jumped to his feet. “Impossible!” he shouted. Glaring at the attendant, he added coldly, “You’re the one falsely conveying the Emperor’s will!”

The attendant didn’t argue with him. He simply took out a seal from the Purple Empyrean Palace, handed it to Yunze Young Lord, bowed, and left the Grand Court of Justice.

Yunze Young Lord sighed softly. The Minister of Fortune was a Heavenly Immortal, accustomed to a life of ease and success. He had never faced any real setbacks. Thus, when confronted with this situation, he had handled it poorly. If he had confessed honestly, the Emperor might have found a way to rescue him. But now, he had dragged the Emperor down with him. Wasn’t this seeking his own destruction? The Heavenly Prosperity Department was the most peaceful and lucrative of the three major departments in the Heavenly Court. Now that the Minister of Fortune was gone, who would replace him? Did he have a chance? A flicker of ambition crossed his eyes. His tone hardened, his voice laced with thunder. “Si Lu, what do you have to say for yourself?”

The Minister of Fortune’s face was contorted with rage, his eyes filled with malice. “I demand an audience with the Emperor!” he roared.

Yunze Young Lord waved his hand, activating the Grand Court of Justice’s barrier, and ordered his attendants to take the Minister of Fortune away.

***

“The Minister of Fortune is going to be dismissed,” Ming Jian Su said, watching the farce unfold on the Chaos Mirror.

“Who will replace him?” Feng Chiyue asked lazily, her head still buried in the pillow, clearly uninterested. She was merely responding to Ming Jian Su’s voice.

“I don’t know,” Ming Jian Su said, shaking her head. The new Star Monarch of the Heavenly Prosperity Department depended on the power struggle between the Celestial Mother and the Heavenly Emperor. It wasn’t within her purview. She thought for a moment. “The Minister of Fortune has been in charge of the Heavenly Prosperity Department for a thousand years. The four palaces under his command—Heavenly Prosperity, Supreme, Wenqu, and Dragon Cauldron—are filled with his disciples and followers. When the new Star Monarch arrives, they will definitely be marginalized, losing their power. The Heavenly Prosperity Department must be in chaos now.”

“And?” Feng Chiyue glanced at her.

Ming Jian Su smiled. “Now that the Celestial Feather Ministry is separated from the Heavenly Prosperity Department, we need our own departments for elixirs, artifacts, scriptures, and so on. What do you think about taking advantage of the chaos in the Heavenly Prosperity Department and recruiting some of their people?”

Feng Chiyue nodded, her expression indifferent.

---

In the Celestial Feather Ministry.

Que Chenyi clapped her hands in delight upon seeing the Minister of Fortune’s downfall.

She didn’t question the authenticity of that decree. Judging from past events, the Heavenly Emperor wasn’t exactly friendly towards their Ministry.

“The dust has settled,” she said, sighing in relief. “Our treasury is no longer connected to the Heavenly Prosperity Department.” They had almost finished taking inventory. To her surprise, the Vermilion Bird Elder’s personal wealth was almost half the size of the Celestial Feather Ministry’s entire treasury. The gap between the feathered lineages was truly vast.

She stretched, preparing to go back to sleep after all her hard work, but a message from Ming Jian Su quickly wiped the smile off her face.

“What’s wrong?” Qing Xun asked, looking up at her worried expression.

“The Heavenly Prosperity Department is in chaos,” Que Chenyi said. “The artisans and alchemists are lost.”

“So we’re going to poach them?” Qing Xun asked excitedly.

Que Chenyi: “…” Qing Xun was truly a product of Dong’e Mountain. She glared at her and cleared her throat. “Poach them? We’re offering a warm home to those displaced immortals. I’m assigning this task to you. You’ve been in the Celestial Feather Ministry for a while now. It’s time for everyone to see your capabilities.”

Qing Xun hesitated. As far as she knew, everyone had to train under their seniors for years, even decades, before being allowed to handle tasks independently. She had only been in the Ministry for a short time. Wasn’t it too early for her to be given such a responsibility? However, upon closer inspection, apart from the puppet servants, there weren’t many living immortals working in the entire Ministry. Being thrust into the spotlight wasn’t so unreasonable after all.

Que Chenyi didn’t care about her thoughts. “We have someone here from the Heavenly Prosperity Department,” she said. “You can ask her if you have any questions. And if you encounter anyone stubborn, just mention Dong’e Mountain. I’m sure those immortals value their lives and will behave.” She rambled on, leaving Qing Xun dizzy. The only words she caught were “Chang Huai” and “Dong’e Mountain.” Her head spinning, she nodded vigorously.

Que Chenyi looked at her with satisfaction. Finally, someone to take over the burden.

Feng Chiyue exploited her, and she would exploit Qing Xun. It was perfectly reasonable. After all, jade needed to be polished to become a valuable treasure. She wouldn’t even mention Dong’e Mountain. Those elders from the Azure Dragon lineage in Phoenix Mountain should be sending her generous gifts.

Feeling carefree, Que Chenyi transformed into a fluffy little mountain sparrow and, with a flap of her wings, flew away, leaving Qing Xun staring after her with envy.

However, moments later, Qing Xun noticed two feathers on the ground, clearly shed from Que Chenyi.

Would she also lose her feathers in the future? After a moment of pondering, she took out the Chaos Mirror. She wouldn’t go to the Heavenly Prosperity Department directly but would post an announcement in the Celestial Feather Ministry’s public pavilion, waiting for those interested to contact her.

The Celestial Feather Ministry was always associated with change. Those who enjoyed a good spectacle flocked to read the announcement as soon as it was updated.

— The Celestial Feather Ministry is recruiting alchemists and artisans. Lineage and origin are irrelevant. Excellent benefits provided. Those interested, please leave your name seal after the announcement.

— One question: Will there be a test?

— Aren’t alchemy and artifact crafting the specialties of the Heavenly Prosperity Department? Is this aimed at them?

— The Celestial Feather Ministry can no longer obtain resources from the Heavenly Prosperity Department. They do need to establish their own departments. But I heard that all their previous income went to Danxue Mountain. Can they afford to pay?

— Don’t spread rumors, Fellow Daoist. Danxue Mountain has never embezzled funds.

— Right, right. The Vermilion Bird Elder’s vast wealth simply fell from the sky.

While the immortals discussed the matter openly on the Chaos Mirror, the officials within the Heavenly Prosperity Department were also restless, especially the Minister of Fortune’s close disciples. Once the new Star Monarch arrived, they would have no place in the department. After all, most Star Monarchs had their own followers and wouldn’t need to rely on officials from other lineages.

“The Celestial Feather Ministry…” The Immortal Monarch from the Wenqu Palace was tempted. Unlike Jing De, he had never offended Dong’e Mountain.

“Do you trust our Master?” Jing De Immortal Monarch asked, his face dark. Seeing his fellow disciples hesitantly nod, he continued, his expression impassive, “Our Master has merely been abandoned. It doesn’t mean that everything he did was wrong. The benefits offered by the Celestial Feather Ministry might be generous, but they’re not aligned with the Heavenly Emperor. If we go there, our future will be uncertain.”

“Fellow Daoist Jing De is right,” someone chimed in. “We’ve accumulated quite a bit of wealth. Why don’t we resign and become wandering immortals, far from all this turmoil? Besides, the Celestial Feather Ministry wouldn’t want us anyway.”

While the Minister of Fortune’s disciples were dejected, the insignificant officials felt a surge of hope, especially those who had received news from Chang Huai. If Chang Huai could work in the Celestial Feather Ministry, why couldn’t they? Their skills weren’t that terrible. They could accept a lower salary. It was still better than spending their days in the Heavenly Prosperity Department, either working menial jobs or tending fires. Encouraged by Chang Huai, they discreetly left their name seals on the Chaos Mirror, anxiously awaiting the final selection.

***

A few days later, the verdict on the Minister of Fortune was announced. In recognition of his past contributions to the Heavenly Court, he was stripped of his position as the Head of the Heavenly Prosperity Department, retaining only the title of “Star Monarch,” and sentenced to a hundred years of imprisonment in the Senluo Prison. The new Star Monarch of the Heavenly Prosperity Department was also announced. Instead of promoting one of the department’s officials, the position was filled by a previously idle Star Monarch, none other than the Heavenly Emperor’s illegitimate son, Yu Gao.

The officials were dissatisfied with the Emperor’s decision and hoped that the Celestial Mother would intervene. However, even after Yu Gao Star Monarch assumed his position, the Celestial Mother remained silent. The officials speculated wildly. At this critical juncture, Chu Yi returned from Asura City, bringing with her a stack of petitions, demanding the dismissal of all officials who had been found to have connections with the demons. The Heavenly Emperor had always hated “dredging up the past,” but this time, he unexpectedly didn’t interfere. How could the officials not understand? Yu Gao’s appointment was simply a trade-off.

***

In the Azure Sovereign Hall.

Chu Yi’s expression was cold and stern.

She hadn’t expected the battlefield between gods and demons to become a stepping stone for officials seeking fame and promotion.

The Vermilion Bird Elder wasn’t the first, and he wouldn’t be the last!

The Heavenly Emperor had always turned a blind eye. No wonder the entire Heavenly Court was such a mess.

“Your Highness, a decree from the Purple Empyrean Palace,” a female immortal announced, entering the hall. She held a jade tray bearing a golden scroll.

Chu Yi pursed her lips, took the decree, and scanned it. Her brows furrowed. She was being ordered to oversee the reforms in the Four Seas Department? She looked at the seal at the end, confirming that it had been sent from the Heavenly Emperor’s palace, not her mother’s. But the Emperor hated change. Why would he send her to the Four Seas Department? After a moment of thought, she flicked her sleeve, and the decree dissipated into a cloud of light. The Four Seas were nominally under the Heavenly Court’s jurisdiction, but they were even more independent than the feathered lineages. Perhaps the Emperor had simply decided that the Four Seas were unimportant and was using this opportunity to get her out of Kunlun Mountain, preventing her from further investigations. And with Yu Gao placed in the Heavenly Prosperity Department, gradually moving towards the center of power, as long as he wasn’t completely obscure, the Mandate of Heaven might shift to him in the future…

She scoffed, her eyes turning even colder.

That useless fool wanted to steal her position? What a delusional dream!

---

In the East Sea Dragon Palace.

Ying Cunxin also received news that Chu Yi was coming to oversee the Four Seas Department reforms. Her emotions were a tangled mess.

The Dragon Lords of the Four Seas were displeased. They had let the Heavenly Prosperity Department’s funding cut slide, but now a special emissary was being sent to monitor them. Did they really think the Four Seas were easy to bully? Why was the White Tiger Department still receiving elixirs and artifacts from the Heavenly Prosperity Palace? They hadn’t completely submitted to the Heavenly Court either!

“Aren’t you good friends with the Heavenly Princess? Go and sound her out. Find out what the Heavenly Court is planning,” the East Sea Dragon Lord instructed Ying Cunxin.

Ying Cunxin lowered her gaze and said slowly, “Good friends? She didn’t even tell me when she was leaving Asura City.” She frowned, her expression gloomy. While talking to Feng Chiyue, she had indeed felt a flicker of disdain. But then she realized that, even with all her flaws, Chu Yi could still defeat most immortals in the Immortal Realm. Wasn’t that a skill in itself? Once those flaws were addressed, how powerful would she become? This thought lingered in her mind, and her interest in Chu Yi rekindled. However, Chu Yi had reverted to her initial coldness, ignoring her completely. She wanted to ask Feng Chiyue for advice, but Feng Chiyue had vanished without a trace.

The East Sea Dragon Lord didn’t care about her thoughts. “The Dragon Princesses and Princes from the West Sea, South Sea, and North Sea will be arriving soon,” he said. “Remember to receive them properly. Don’t spend all your time in your shell bed playing with the Chaos Mirror.”

Ying Cunxin scoffed, ignoring him completely, and turned to leave.

---

***

After the Minister of Fortune incident, the Heavenly Court enjoyed a rare period of peace.

Danxue Mountain seemed to have disappeared from the Immortal Realm. No more foolish feathered immortals dared to speak out.

Everyone was so well-behaved that those who enjoyed watching the drama unfold on the Chaos Mirror were bored.

Feng Chiyue wasn’t bothered by the lack of excitement. Instead of teasing the birds under the eternally blooming peach tree, she dragged Ming Jian Su to inspect the vast orchard behind Dong’e Mountain. After retrieving those treasures from the Abyss of the Milky Way, some long-extinct spiritual fruits had reappeared. The fruits sealed in jade boxes had been given to Que Chenyi and Qing Xun. As for the fresh ones, they could forget about it.

There were many wild birds in Dong’e Mountain. Ming Jian Su released a surge of sword intent, sending them scattering in a flurry of wings. She looked up at Feng Chiyue, who was perched on a branch, and said, arms crossed, “Should we ask Chang Huai to craft some puppet servants specifically to guard the orchard?”

“No need,” Feng Chiyue replied casually. She was in a good mood, humming a tune with a profound melody. The startled birds returned, their feathers a riot of colors, dancing gracefully in the air. Even without sentience, their bloodline compelled them to flock towards the Phoenix. Ming Jian Su’s eyes softened. She thought, “Compared to those feathered immortals, these unfortunate birds, lacking sentience, are more deserving of the Phoenix’s favor.”

“What song is that?” she asked curiously. It sounded familiar. She had heard it somewhere before. She tried to recall but only found a hazy mist in her memory.

Feng Chiyue swung her legs, her chin resting on her hand, and smiled. “I don’t know.” She was content with her current life and had no need to delve into those fragmented memories that gave her headaches. Whatever could be forgotten was no longer important.

“Elder Sister,” she called out. When she saw Ming Jian Su’s focused gaze on her, she jumped down from the tree. Her jade pendants chimed, blending with the clear, ethereal birdsong in the wind. She landed in Ming Jian Su’s arms, laughing uncontrollably. Ming Jian Su embraced her, a smile spreading across her face.

“Why are you so happy, Junior Sister?” she whispered in Feng Chiyue’s ear.

Feng Chiyue was always honest. “I’m happy whenever I see you.”

Her joy was so simple. Ming Jian Su was even more determined to shield her from responsibility. She would clear the path, remove all obstacles… She wanted her junior sister to remain forever innocent, forever passionate. “I’ll always be here,” she said, her voice soft but her tone firm and sincere.

Feng Chiyue blinked. “You’ve said that many times.”

Ming Jian Su hummed in agreement. She could say it a million times, and it still wouldn’t be enough.

---

***

On their way back, Feng Chiyue yawned, covering her mouth with her hand.

As usual, Ming Jian Su coaxed her while checking the messages on the Chaos Mirror.

Tu Shan Liusu, who had a close connection to the demons, had sent two messages. First, Chang Li had been spotted in the Demon Realm, searching for the Phoenix Sovereign. Second, a new Minor Realm had appeared. Both the Demon Realm and the Immortal Realm had their own ascension gates. A newly born Minor Realm was a valuable resource. If conquered, its laws could be altered, allowing for the possibility of immortals falling into demonhood or demons turning into immortals. According to the records, the last Minor Realm had appeared two thousand three hundred sixty-five years ago, falling into the Heavenly Court’s hands, and the Azure Sky Gate had been established there.

Ming Jian Su frowned, feeling that the timing of this new Minor Realm’s appearance was unfortunate.

“What’s wrong?” Feng Chiyue asked drowsily, her eyes still closed, clutching Ming Jian Su’s robe.

Ming Jian Su lowered her head and told her about the second message. “A new Minor Realm has appeared. The Immortal Realm will definitely fight the demons for control.”

Who would the Heavenly Emperor send when he received the news?

And Chang Li…

She hadn’t returned even after the incident at Danxue Mountain. What kind of clue could make her abandon her own lineage?

Would she come after her junior sister? Would she disrupt the peace of Dong’e Mountain?

Ming Jian Su’s mind raced, a wave of killing intent surging within her.

Feng Chiyue opened her eyes slightly and, reaching out, gently caressed Ming Jian Su’s brow, silently comforting her.

Ming Jian Su chuckled, taking her hand, their fingers interlacing. She suppressed her anger.

Chapter 49

Leaving the Great Yin Palace, Ming Jian Su felt a sense of relief. Although she had known that the Celestial Mother’s emergence from seclusion wasn’t a simple matter, only after receiving confirmation did she feel truly reassured. Both the Heavenly Emperor and the Celestial Mother were bearers of the Mandate of Heaven. While the Emperor possessed the Heavenly Constitution Seal, the Celestial Mother held the Heavenly Law Seal. Both their decrees carried the power of the Heavenly Dao. The Vermilion Bird Elder was dead, but the Bifang, Swan Goose, and other elders remained. Chang Li was also still at large. And then there was the Heavenly Emperor and those in the Realm Beyond Heaven… The road ahead was long and arduous! But at least she had glimpsed a glimmer of hope.

The cold moonlight flowed like a tide, draping her in a soft, ethereal veil.

Upon returning to Dong’e Mountain, Ming Jian Su had just emerged from a burst of sword light when she sensed a familiar aura. She looked up and saw a red figure, accompanied by the tinkling of bells, rushing towards her. She reached out and caught Feng Chiyue, a gentle smile spreading across her face. “Why are you out here, Junior Sister?” she asked softly. Shouldn’t she be asleep in the hall at this hour?

Feng Chiyue snorted and pushed her away slightly. She studied Ming Jian Su for a moment, then said, “I came out to wait for you.” She paused, then added, “Why were you gone so long?” Her tone was laced with complaint, her lips slightly pursed, her displeasure evident.

“It’s my fault,” Ming Jian Su said quickly. In the past, even if she returned late at night, Feng Chiyue wouldn’t have cared. Now, she was waiting for her, her eyes full of anticipation. Did this mean that her position in her junior sister’s heart had improved somewhat? Lost in thought, she didn’t snap out of it until a gentle flick on her forehead brought her back to reality. She met Feng Chiyue’s clear gaze. “Let’s go back,” she said.

Feng Chiyue obediently followed her, her questions continuing.

“Which colleague did you visit? Did you drink tea or play Go?”

“Why did she keep you for so long?”

“Didn’t you notice it was getting dark? Don’t tell me you were planning to spend the night outside.”

“I waited in the hall for a long time.”

“You were lost in thought just now. What were you thinking about?”

…

One question after another. Ming Jian Su answered them all patiently, her tone gentle. As they entered the Dharma Hall, she turned to Feng Chiyue and said softly, “I was thinking about you.”

Feng Chiyue raised an eyebrow, a triumphant smile spreading across her face. She didn’t notice the tenderness in Ming Jian Su’s voice. “You should be thinking about me,” she said. Meeting Ming Jian Su’s smiling gaze, she added possessively, “Don’t think about anyone else.” She had little interest in the Heavenly Court or the Celestial Feather Ministry. She pulled Ming Jian Su onto the bed and started recounting the events surrounding Ying Cunxin and Chu Yi, her demeanor cheerful and lively, as if she had found a new toy.

Chu Yi’s political views differed from the Heavenly Emperor’s. She leaned towards the Celestial Mother. If their relationship progressed, the Four Seas wouldn’t side with the Emperor. They might even support the Celestial Mother, pushing for even more drastic reforms within the Four Seas Department. It made sense for them to be together, both emotionally and politically. A flicker of understanding crossed Ming Jian Su’s eyes. “They are indeed a good match,” she agreed.

Feng Chiyue leaned against Ming Jian Su’s shoulder, the Chaos Mirror floating before them. Ying Cunxin’s name seal was glowing faintly. She clicked on it and saw a message from Ying Cunxin: “Why is the Heavenly Princess’s cultivation technique so full of flaws?” Feng Chiyue didn’t reply. She frowned in distress. “Ying Cunxin seems to be losing interest in Chu Yi,” she said. At first, she had described Chu Yi as having “self-awareness.” Now, she was a sieve full of holes, and Ying Cunxin was starting to look down on her. Had she pushed things too far?

“Is Chu Yi still in Asura City?” Ming Jian Su asked.

Feng Chiyue hesitated. “I think so?” She hadn’t accepted Chu Yi’s friend request.

Ming Jian Su thought for a moment. “The Four Seas Dragon Lords are the ones pushing for the reforms,” she said. “Their internal relationships will hinder their efforts. They need an outsider to intervene.”

She knew that Chu Yi was in Asura City investigating the collusion between officials and demons, but the Heavenly Emperor and those officials didn’t want her stirring up trouble. They were eager to get her out of there. The Emperor certainly wouldn’t want her meddling in the Four Seas Department, but the human officials might feel differently. After all, it was better for her to be causing chaos in the seas than digging up their past, right? Chu Yi sided with the Celestial Mother, but that wasn’t enough. She needed to completely sever any remaining father-daughter bond between her and the Emperor.

Feng Chiyue’s eyes sparkled mischievously. “What are you scheming?” she asked suspiciously.

“Nothing,” Ming Jian Su denied immediately. She waved her hand, dismissing the Chaos Mirror. “Ying Cunxin admires strength, Junior Sister. You should limit your interactions with her.” What if Ying Cunxin took a liking to her junior sister? What if she started visiting Dong’e Mountain all the time? If that happened, Ming Jian Su was afraid she might lose control and do something drastic to that little white dragon. They had enough enemies already. As long as the Four Seas remained peaceful, there was no need to provoke them.

Feng Chiyue didn’t find her request unreasonable. She yawned, covering her mouth with her hand. “Alright,” she agreed.

“Are you tired?” Ming Jian Su asked softly.

Feng Chiyue didn’t answer but opened her sleepy eyes, gazing at Ming Jian Su, her eyes like pools of moonlight.

Ming Jian Su chuckled and leaned down, kissing the corner of Feng Chiyue’s lips. Hearing her satisfied hum, she smiled.

---

In the Heavenly Prosperity Department.

The Minister of Fortune had issued his “ultimatum” to Ming Jian Su. He waited patiently for several days, but the Celestial Feather Ministry still hadn’t delivered the confiscated assets to their treasury. They had their own selection process for officials and no longer received their salaries from the Heavenly Prosperity Department. They were practically independent. Their only remaining connection to the Heavenly Court was that newly ascended feathered immortals still had to pass through the Heavenly Gate first. But given the Heavenly Mechanism Department’s laziness, even this last link might soon be severed. Feathered immortals would probably be assigned to guard the Heavenly Gate soon.

The Minister of Fortune worried about the future Heavenly Gate guardians for a moment, then dismissed the matter. His own problems were far more pressing. He had no time to concern himself with others.

“Are you sure you’ve informed the West Sea Lord? Has she agreed to come?” He asked his disciples again, sighing in relief when they confirmed. He took out the Heavenly Emperor’s decree and examined it repeatedly. The imprint of the Heavenly Constitution Seal was truly dazzling. The Heavenly Emperor was the ruler of the Immortal Realm, and all immortals obeyed his decrees. Thus, in the past, there was no need to affix a seal to decrees. The appearance of the seal usually signified punishment for disobedience. The Emperor’s unparalleled Sword Immortal had fallen out of favor. He truly couldn’t understand what was so special about Feng Chiyue that the East Abode Master would abandon her promising future for her.

Adjusting his robes, he let out a breath. If he waited any longer, the Emperor would be displeased. He ordered his attendants to prepare the chariot and, after sending a message to Bai Guchan, the West Sea Lord, calmly boarded the luxurious vehicle. The chariot resembled a three-story pagoda, adorned with ninety-nine bells that tinkled melodiously as it moved. It was usually pulled by nine black dragons, but on a whim, he had decided to use nine Azure Dragons instead. These creatures weren’t borrowed from the Bureau. They were raised by his own department. As the Star Monarch of the Heavenly Prosperity Department, he could draw their salaries from the Ministry’s funds without needing approval from the Bureau.

His departure was a grand spectacle. Starting from Kunlun Mountain, he drove straight towards the Celestial Feather Ministry. Those who witnessed his procession were awestruck and immediately took out their Chaos Mirrors, inviting friends and family to watch the drama unfold. The most talked-about topic recently was the Heavenly Emperor’s unreasonable decree. The Minister of Fortune’s visit was likely intended to transfer all the assets from the Celestial Feather Ministry’s treasury to his own. This was the Emperor’s first show of force. Would the Celestial Feather Ministry yield?

---

As they approached the Celestial Feather Ministry, the nine Azure Dragons pulling the chariot became restless, hesitating to move forward, defying the Minister of Fortune’s commands. His eyes narrowed, and he growled, “Beasts!” A whip formed from magic energy lashed out, striking the Azure Dragons. Painful cries filled the air, and blood-stained feathers fell from the sky like snowflakes. The Azure Dragons still refused to move, and the invisible chains binding them suddenly materialized. Waves of magic power rippled outwards, clearly demonstrating their resistance.

The Minister of Fortune hadn’t expected trouble on his own chariot. He sensed several auras nearby. Some of his fellow Daoists were probably hiding, waiting to see him make a fool of himself. His expression hardened, and he stepped out of the pagoda, his robes billowing in the wind, his bearing dignified and imposing. However, this composure lasted only a moment. A piercing bird cry, like a demonic chant, pierced his ears. The nine Azure Dragons struggled violently, somehow summoning immense strength, breaking free from their chains and, with wings folded, flew towards the Celestial Feather Ministry’s complex. The Minister of Fortune instinctively gave chase, but the Ministry was protected by a barrier. As his magic power collided with it, the barrier retaliated with equal force. A deafening explosion reverberated through the air, and waves of energy surged outwards. The golden chariot, suspended in mid-air, shattered, its fragments scattering like golden rain.

The Minister of Fortune landed on the ground, his face as dark as ink.

He flicked his sleeve, brushing away the debris, and glared at the Celestial Feather Ministry.

He hadn’t even seen anyone yet, and he had already been humiliated. The East Abode Master was truly impressive!

“Who dares trespass in the Celestial Feather Ministry?” A clear voice rang out. Qing Xun emerged, her sword in her arms, her dark eyes fixed on the Minister of Fortune, unwavering.

He suppressed his anger, not wanting to lose his temper with a junior. Clasping his hands behind his back, he said in a deep voice, “This humble Daoist is Si Lu, and I’m here to visit the Ministry Head.”

Qing Xun made a noncommittal sound. She didn’t offer to announce his arrival but simply pointed behind him.

The Minister of Fortune frowned and snapped at her, “Are you going to lead the way or not?”

Qing Xun sighed. She shouldn’t have come out to check. She should have just taken those Azure Dragons away. The barrier would prevent any outsiders from entering. She rolled her eyes and, with a disdainful glance at the Minister of Fortune, turned and walked away. Infuriated by her attitude, he channeled his magic power and struck the Celestial Feather Ministry’s barrier with his palm. He had merely intended to vent his frustration, but a sword beam shot towards him, intercepting his attack. Before he could react, a gash appeared on his palm, blood gushing out.

“What are you doing, Fellow Daoist Si Lu?” A familiar voice came from behind him. His eyelids twitched, and he turned abruptly, meeting Ming Jian Su’s gaze. Her eyes held a hint of amusement.

“The path is over there,” she said, her tone dripping with sarcasm. “If you wish to enter the Celestial Feather Ministry, simply register your name. There’s no need to force your way in.”

Fury burned within him. Seeing Ming Jian Su, he decided not to enter. He took out the Heavenly Emperor’s decree and read it aloud.

The Emperor was using this opportunity to suppress the Celestial Feather Ministry, while he simply couldn’t stand the thought of all those benefits falling into someone else’s hands. He didn’t care about the feathered lineages’ fate. He brandished the decree and declared, “This is the Emperor’s decree, bearing the Heavenly Constitution Seal. It is the will of the Heavenly Dao. Ministry Head Feng, East Abode Master, are you going to defy Heaven?”

Ming Jian Su glanced at the decree and smiled faintly. “All the newly registered treasures in the Celestial Feather Ministry’s treasury are to be transferred to the Heavenly Prosperity Department, and from now on, our officials’ salaries will no longer be drawn from your funds. Pray tell, Fellow Daoist Si Lu, how are our feathered officials supposed to survive?”

“That’s your problem,” he said dismissively. He only cared about the benefits he could gain.

***

On the Chaos Mirror

Some immortals had quietly uploaded this scene. It wasn’t just the feathered officials—even the human immortals were incensed. Just look at Minister Si Lu, they fumed. Are those even the words of a decent person? He’s demanding the feathered officials work for nothing!

“This is the Heavenly Emperor’s doing,” one commenter wrote. “Is His Majesty planning to abolish stipends altogether? Starting with the unruly feathered clan, of course.”

An inconspicuous wandering immortal’s comment stirred the pot even further. Then, she contacted Zhu Wan directly. “Things are getting heated,” she messaged. “Don’t forget to pay me my Cinnabar Jade.”

“Not enough impact,” Zhu Wan replied. She was wealthy now and no longer worried about starving. Being an immortal had its perks.

Minister Si Lu, oblivious to the uproar on the Chaos Mirror, remained adamant, especially after seeing over a dozen familiar and unfamiliar figures descending towards the Celestial Feather Ministry. The furrow in his brow eased slightly.

Ming Jian Su raised an eyebrow, a smile playing on her lips. “If I’m not mistaken,” she said, “the Celestial Mother now oversees the Celestial Feather Ministry.”

Minister Si Lu choked, then, after a moment, declared self-righteously, “The Heavenly Emperor and the Celestial Mother are one and the same.”

Feng Chiyue, who had been standing silently beside Ming Jian Su, suddenly spoke. “So you forged the Heavenly Emperor’s decree,” she said, her voice cold.

Minister Si Lu’s face darkened. “The decree bears the Heavenly Constitution Seal!” he said sharply. “It cannot be forged!”

“Is that so?” Feng Chiyue asked casually. Ming Jian Su was about to retrieve the Celestial Mother’s decree when a streak of light flashed past. She turned and saw that her junior sister had snatched the Emperor’s decree and was now toying with it.

Minister Si Lu’s gaze, filled with mockery, fell on Feng Chiyue. “Has the Ministry Head determined its authenticity?” he asked.

“Fake,” Feng Chiyue said simply. A faint flame flickered on her fingertip, instantly burning away the characters on the decree. A pale purple light emanated from the Heavenly Constitution Seal, but before it could fully manifest, it was swallowed by the dancing flames. A crisp sound, like shattering glass, echoed through the air, and the seal vanished. The decree, reduced to ashes, scattered in the wind.

“The Heavenly Constitution Seal, so easily destroyed?” Feng Chiyue said with a sweet smile. “You underestimate the Heavenly Emperor, Minister Si Lu. Forging his decree for personal gain… how immoral.”

Minister Si Lu stared at her, his mind reeling, his face draining of color. He stumbled back, his voice trembling. “You… you…” The decree had been given to him by the Heavenly Emperor himself. He had seen the seal with his own eyes. How could it be fake?!

The reinforcements from the Heavenly Prosperity Department and the Western River had arrived, but now, not just the West Sea Lord, even his own disciples were looking at him suspiciously.

“Fellod Daoist “West Sea Lord”,” Ming Jian Su said, also surprised that her junior sister could erase the Heavenly Dao’s power from the seal. She studied Feng Chiyue carefully, but seeing nothing unusual, she simply gave her an encouraging look, suppressing a smile, then turned to Bai Guchan, who had appeared silently nearby, and bowed in greeting.

Bai Guchan returned the gesture. She was a white tiger cultivator, and although her features had softened over the years, due to her practice of tranquility, her gaze, when focused, was still sharp and intimidating. She looked at Minister Si Lu. “Did you forge the Heavenly Emperor’s decree, Fellow Daoist?” she asked.

“No!” he insisted, shaking his head vehemently, his voice filled with indignation. But his denial lacked conviction.

Ming Jian Su turned to him, her gaze cold. She took out the Celestial Mother’s decree, further solidifying the separation between the Celestial Feather Ministry and the Heavenly Prosperity Department. “The Celestial Mother and the Heavenly Emperor are one,” she said, smiling faintly. “This is the true decree of the Heavenly Court. Your heart is restless, Minister Si Lu, driven by greed.”

Seeing the Celestial Mother’s seal, Minister Si Lu felt his world turning dark. He was speechless, his frustration mounting. He wanted to attack, but his disciples hesitated, their eyes filled with fear, and the West Sea Lord’s cold, questioning gaze held him back. If he acted rashly, he would be the next Bai Yang Star Monarch! His face flushed, then paled. He flicked his sleeve. “The truth will come out eventually!” he declared.

“But until then,” Ming Jian Su said, her smile unwavering, “you’ll have to be a guest of the Celestial Pivot Department.”

He stared at her incredulously.

“Aren’t you seeking justice, Minister Si Lu?” she asked. “Who else but the Celestial Pivot Department can deliver justice? You don’t have to thank me. Informing them is the least I can do.”

His frustration intensified, her smile a mocking glare. Overwhelmed by emotions, he coughed up blood.

***

On the Chaos Mirror.

This scene was being recorded and broadcast.

— Is the Minister of Fortune losing his mind?

— The West Sea Lord actually appeared! Fellow Daoist, don’t leave yet. Let me have a good look.

— So that’s how it is. I was wondering why the Heavenly Emperor would suddenly try to cut off the feathered lineages’ funding. It turns out that the Minister of Fortune, in his audacity, forged the Emperor’s decree!

— I’m curious now. Just how much wealth did the Vermilion Bird Elder leave behind that even the Minister of Fortune is so desperate?

— Someone from Danxue Mountain, please enlighten us!

…

The Heavenly Emperor’s tarnished image was being “whitewashed” on the Chaos Mirror, but he wasn’t amused.

It had been his decision to cut off the Celestial Feather Ministry’s funding, and it had been his decision to have the Minister of Fortune handle it… but now that it had failed, he couldn’t take responsibility. Those immortals were cursing the Minister of Fortune’s greed and audacity, but their words were clearly aimed at him! He felt utterly humiliated. Moreover, there was something else that bothered him deeply. How had Feng Chiyue erased the imprint of the Heavenly Constitution Seal?

***

Ming Jian Su was also deeply concerned about this question.

The officials might have believed that the decree was fake, but she knew that it hadn’t been the Minister of Fortune acting boldly but rather the Heavenly Emperor’s true intention.

Feng Chiyue hadn’t shown any signs of distress while erasing the seal. However, upon returning to Dong’e Mountain, she had collapsed on the bed, her eyes closed, and had fallen asleep, ignoring even Ming Jian Su’s attempts to engage her.

Something was wrong!

Panic surged within Ming Jian Su.

Feng Chiyue opened her eyes slightly and, taking out a handful of elixirs, popped them into her mouth like candy. She hummed in response to Ming Jian Su’s questions, her tone dismissive. Ming Jian Su didn’t give up. She entered Feng Chiyue’s Sea of Consciousness. The little phoenix ignored her, curled up in her manifested nest, fast asleep. Ming Jian Su watched her anxiously. Only at noon the next day did the little phoenix wake up, transforming into a crimson light that enveloped Ming Jian Su’s consciousness, playfully entwining with her.

***

Withdrawing from Feng Chiyue’s Sea of Consciousness, Ming Jian Su took a moment to compose herself, wiping the tears from her eyes. She turned to Feng Chiyue.

“Are you alright, Junior Sister?” Her voice was hoarse with worry.

Feng Chiyue’s unfocused gaze slowly returned, settling on Ming Jian Su. She rolled over, pinning Ming Jian Su beneath her, and smiled. “My cultivation has increased a bit,” she said. She nuzzled Ming Jian Su’s cheek, then added curiously, “Elder Sister, is this what they call reaping without sowing?”

Ming Jian Su: “…” She had been worried sick! And her junior sister was still thinking about such things. She didn’t want to avoid the topic. She forced a serious expression and, after listing all the suspicious points, finally accused, her eyes red, “What are the consequences of you erasing the Heavenly Constitution Seal’s power?”

“I depleted my magic power and had no energy left to entertain you, Elder Sister,” Feng Chiyue said sincerely.

“Really?” Ming Jian Su asked, her voice laced with doubt.

Feng Chiyue glared at her, her cheeks puffed out in anger. “Why would I lie to you? I’m not like you, always lying! You even faked your death!” She thought for a moment, then added, “If I were stronger, there wouldn’t be any problems.”

“You need to cultivate harder, Elder Sister.”

Ming Jian Su: “…” Wasn’t her junior sister strong enough already? She had considered herself a prodigy in the lower realm, but upon meeting Feng Chiyue, she had been humbled. There were many things her junior sister could do, but she simply chose not to. That month had proven that Feng Chiyue could survive just fine without her. She wasn’t as indispensable as she had thought.

“Junior Sister,” she said softly, a hint of melancholy in her voice.

“I’m here. What’s wrong?” Feng Chiyue replied.

Ming Jian Su didn’t answer but repeated her name several times, her voice growing sweeter and more seductive.

Feng Chiyue, known for her quick temper, didn’t get angry but patiently responded each time.

After a long moment, Ming Jian Su finally spoke. “What if I had taken the wrong path and not found you in the Abyss of the Milky Way? What if it had been someone else there? Would you have followed them?”

“No,” Feng Chiyue said, shaking her head.

Hope flickered in Ming Jian Su’s eyes. “Why not?” she asked.

“They’re ugly,” Feng Chiyue replied without hesitation.

Chapter 48

Back when Feng Chiyue would scold and berate him, Jing De Immortal Monarch harbored a simmering anger within him. However, that anger gradually transformed into fear. At first, he dared to curse her on the Chaos Mirror, inciting others to join him in targeting her. Now, the mere mention of her name filled him with a sense of impending doom, especially after witnessing Bai Zifeng’s merciless execution by Ming Jian Su.

The threat posed by Feng Chiyue alone was formidable enough. With Ming Jian Su added to the equation, it was simply unbearable.

The shadow on the ground shifted. Called out by name, Jing De Immortal Monarch didn’t dare to look up at their expressions. His knees buckled, and he collapsed to the ground, devoid of any Heavenly Immortal’s pride.

Ming Jian Su chuckled softly. Jing De Immortal Monarch had bullied her junior sister while she was away. Although her junior sister had exacted revenge on the spot, she still felt a surge of displeasure. Her gaze, sharp as a blade, swept over Jing De Immortal Monarch. She smiled faintly. “Why are you prostrating yourself, Fellow Daoist?” she asked.

“Perhaps his legs are broken,” Feng Chiyue said casually. She had long since forgotten about that old fool. Her gaze, filled with urgency, rested on Ming Jian Su. She didn’t want to stand around outside. Ming Jian Su understood and, taking Feng Chiyue’s hand, led her towards the Celestial Feather Hall.

Only after they were gone did Jing De Immortal Monarch let out a breath, feeling the pressure lift from his shoulders. The Feather Guards passing by cast curious glances at him. He felt a wave of embarrassment, stood up slowly, and wiped the cold sweat from his forehead. Suddenly, he remembered the reason he had come, and his body stiffened once more.

He had inquired beforehand. Those two rarely visited the Celestial Feather Ministry. Why was he so unlucky to run into them?

---

In the Celestial Feather Ministry’s side hall.

Qing Xun, like a streak of green light, suddenly appeared before Que Chenyi, her voice filled with surprise. “The Ministry Head and the Immortal Monarch are here.”

Que Chenyi hummed, but she didn’t go to greet them. Instead, she handed Qing Xun the transcribed documents. “Take these over,” she said.

Qing Xun nodded eagerly. She spotted Jing De Immortal Monarch shuffling along the hallway and looked at him curiously. She pursed her lips, holding back any comments. Upon reaching the Celestial Feather Hall, she placed the documents on the table and said crisply, “The Assistant Ministry Head asked me to deliver these.” Over time, her fear of Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue had diminished somewhat. Now, she couldn’t help but glance around.

Feng Chiyue’s senses were sharp. She felt Qing Xun’s gaze on her and lifted her eyelids. “Do you need something?” she asked, her tone indifferent. She had come with Ming Jian Su but had no interest in official matters. She lay sprawled on the bed, engrossed in the Chaos Mirror. However, the young Azure Dragon’s inquisitive gaze annoyed her.

“No,” Qing Xun said, startled, and quickly looked away. Feng Chiyue ignored her, but Ming Jian Su frowned slightly at her junior sister’s words and fixed a cold gaze on Qing Xun. A shiver ran down her spine. She instinctively took a step back, her hands twisting behind her back. After a long moment, she stammered, “Jing De Immortal Monarch from the Heavenly Prosperity Department is outside.”

Ming Jian Su said without looking up, “Let him in.” After the Vermilion Bird Elder’s death, all the “personal wealth” he had publicly claimed had been confiscated and transferred to the Celestial Feather Ministry. Those from Danxue Mountain had been sensible enough not to interfere. Their accumulated wealth over the past thousand years was truly impressive, a stark contrast to the poverty of Phoenix Mountain.

***

Before entering the hall, Jing De Immortal Monarch straightened his robes and, suppressing his fear, performed a perfunctory bow. However, both Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue were busy with their own affairs and paid him no attention. His embarrassment deepened, and his lips moved soundlessly. Finally, he gave up and looked at Qing Xun.

Qing Xun stared straight ahead, pretending to be a pillar. Silence filled the hall. Vaguely, she caught a glance from Feng Chiyue. Suddenly understanding, she turned to Jing De Immortal Monarch and asked, “What brings you to the Celestial Feather Ministry, Immortal Monarch?” Her voice was clear and crisp, like the sound of jade chimes.

Jing De Immortal Monarch had been struggling to find the right words. Qing Xun’s question provided an opening, breaking the awkward silence. “My Master sent me to inquire about the confiscated assets of the Vermilion Bird Elder,” he said hastily.

Qing Xun knew who Jing De Immortal Monarch was and naturally understood that his “Master” referred to the Minister of Fortune. She frowned in confusion. “What does that have to do with the Heavenly Prosperity Department?”

Jing De Immortal Monarch smiled awkwardly, not bothering to assert his authority over this junior. “They’re typically transferred to the Heavenly Prosperity Department,” he explained. He hadn’t expected the Celestial Feather Ministry to snatch them this time.

Qing Xun understood. The Heavenly Prosperity Department wanted to empty the Celestial Feather Ministry’s newly acquired treasury! Anger flared within her, and she glared at Jing De Immortal Monarch. “The Heavenly Emperor has separated the Heavenly Prosperity Department from the Celestial Feather Ministry,” she said coldly. “On what grounds do you come to our Ministry demanding our assets?”

Jing De Immortal Monarch was taken aback. The Heavenly Emperor’s decree had only stated that the Celestial Feather Ministry would no longer receive funds from the Heavenly Prosperity Department. They had naturally assumed that all income generated by the Celestial Feather Ministry still belonged to them. Was the Ministry now claiming that they wouldn’t be sending those assets to their treasury? His expression soured. If it had only been Qing Xun present, he would have argued with her. But with Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue in the room, despite their silence, their presence was overwhelming. He swallowed his anger and confusion. “I’ll report back to my Master,” he said and hastily retreated from the hall.

***

With Jing De Immortal Monarch gone, Qing Xun could finally vent her anger, cursing him under her breath. The Heavenly Prosperity Department was truly shameless. They wanted all the Celestial Feather Ministry’s income while refusing to provide any funds. Was that fair? These immortals were cunning, malicious, and delusional!

Ming Jian Su was well aware of those officials’ character. Although Jing De Immortal Monarch had left, the matter wasn’t over. The Minister of Fortune would definitely be furious and would complain to the Heavenly Emperor. However, even the Emperor’s intervention wouldn’t change anything.

While Ming Jian Su and Qing Xun were preoccupied, Feng Chiyue remained carefree. She withdrew her consciousness from the Chaos Mirror, stretched, and looked at Qing Xun intently.

Exposed to Feng Chiyue’s scrutiny, Qing Xun tensed up again, and her earlier indignation towards Jing De Immortal Monarch vanished. She hung her head, her entire body radiating dejection.

“Have you mastered the art of Nirvana?” Feng Chiyue asked.

Qing Xun choked. Most of the feathered lineages in Phoenix Mountain hadn’t mastered it. Was it something she, a mere teenager, could learn? Her face flushed red, and under Feng Chiyue’s clear gaze, a wave of shame washed over her. “No,” she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Disgust filled Feng Chiyue’s eyes. “Is it that difficult?” she asked.

Qing Xun was bewildered. Was the art of Nirvana supposed to be easy?

“She’s still young,” Ming Jian Su said, speaking up for Qing Xun.

“When I was her age…” Feng Chiyue started to say, then suddenly stopped. What about when she was her age? She couldn’t remember. She rubbed her forehead, a sharp pain shooting through her head. She immediately stopped thinking and lay down on the bed, her eyes unfocused. Sensing her distress, Ming Jian Su tossed aside the documents and appeared at her bedside in an instant. She helped Feng Chiyue onto her lap and gently massaged her temples.

“Are you alright?” she asked with concern.

The pain vanished as quickly as it had come. Feng Chiyue felt fine now. But Ming Jian Su’s touch was soothing. She didn’t answer but nuzzled against Ming Jian Su’s chest and hummed softly. Ming Jian Su shifted her hand from Feng Chiyue’s temples to cup her face, her thumb gently stroking her cheek. Feng Chiyue glanced at her, then, seemingly unintentionally, turned her head and brushed her lips against Ming Jian Su’s palm.

Ming Jian Su’s hand trembled slightly. She looked at Feng Chiyue.

Feng Chiyue met her gaze, a mischievous smile playing on her lips.

Qing Xun: “…” The figures before her blurred, and the atmosphere in the hall became strangely heavy. She wanted to excuse herself, but seeing that no one was paying her any attention, she quietly slipped out of the hall and returned to the side hall.

“Why were you gone for so long?” Que Chenyi asked.

Qing Xun recounted Jing De Immortal Monarch’s visit, embellishing the details with indignation. “They’re so shameless!” she exclaimed, her cheeks puffed out in anger. “How can they do such a thing? If they take all our assets, how will we pay the Ministry’s officials? Will we all starve?”

Que Chenyi raised an eyebrow, her tone mocking. “We’ll just have to disband, then.” The Heavenly Emperor’s decree was forcing them to make a choice. She had heard that he had long been dissatisfied with the reforms within the Celestial Feather Ministry, but the Celestial Mother had prevented him from interfering.

Qing Xun frowned, not wanting to dwell on the matter. After a moment of silence, she changed the subject. “Do you know the art of Nirvana?” she asked, staring at Que Chenyi intently.

“No,” Que Chenyi replied casually. Even if she knew such a profound technique, she wouldn’t tell anyone, would she? She wanted to know why Qing Xun had suddenly asked, but when she met her gaze, she was startled by the disdain and astonishment she saw. Had this young Azure Dragon learned the art of Nirvana?

The next moment, Qing Xun said, “I don’t know it either.”

She took out the Chaos Mirror and found several familiar name seals. First, she contacted Feng Yao, then other members of her lineage, even elders. Finally, she gathered everyone together and asked, her voice filled with genuine bewilderment, “Do none of you know the art of Nirvana?”

***

In Phoenix Mountain.

Whether Phoenix, Chongming, or Azure Dragon, none of them were as idle as Qing Xun. They were either busy studying or diligently fulfilling their duties as Mountain Patrol Emissaries, writing reports and refining their skills. Hardly anyone paid attention to her. However, the name seals kept flashing until Feng Yao, unable to bear the constant harassment, finally focused her consciousness on the Chaos Mirror. Only then did Qing Xun stop.

Qing Xun was still in the Celestial Feather Ministry’s side hall. She curled up in her chair and looked up at Feng Yao’s projected figure. “Sister Feng Yao, you haven’t answered my question,” she said.

Feng Yao rubbed her forehead in exasperation. Realizing that the environment wasn’t suitable, she said quickly, “No.” Before Qing Xun could ask another question, she added, “Don’t you have anything better to do?”

Qing Xun’s gaze shifted to Que Chenyi, and she felt a twinge of guilt. She avoided Feng Yao’s eyes and mumbled, “Not really.”

Feng Yao: “…” She swallowed her words. After a long moment, she said, “Focus on your work.” Qing Xun was the only one in all of Phoenix Mountain who could get close to Feng Chiyue.

Learning about the past had left Feng Yao feeling deeply troubled. A knot of frustration lingered in her chest, and she didn’t know who to blame.

Even if Ming Jian Su had been willing to maintain friendly relations with Phoenix Mountain, Feng Yao wouldn’t have dared to visit her again.

They had clung to a faint hope, waiting for their Sovereign to return and lead them back to their former glory. But this hope, placed on someone else’s shoulders, was ultimately an illusion. What would happen even if their Sovereign returned? She was no longer willing to have anything to do with them.

If Phoenix Mountain wanted to escape its predicament, they had to rely on themselves.

“Why is Qing Xun asking about Nirvana?” someone murmured.

Feng Yao snapped out of her thoughts and forced a smile. “Just a childish whim,” she said. She was preoccupied with recent events, her fingers pressing against her aching temples. She didn’t mention “Nirvana” but changed the subject. “Something so major happened in Danxue Mountain, and yet Chang Li hasn’t appeared. She’s probably not in seclusion anymore.”

“Do you think she might have guessed something and gone looking for our Sovereign?”

***

In the Heavenly Court’s Purple Empyrean Palace.

The Heavenly Emperor’s face was dark as he held a message in his hand.

It was from Chang Li, stating that she had found clues about the Phoenix Sovereign’s whereabouts in the Demon Abyss and would have results soon.

After a thousand years, the unease buried deep within him resurfaced, and his expression turned grim and malicious, his eyes filled with anger.

The Minister of Fortune arrived at the worst possible time.

The Heavenly Emperor brushed aside the message and summoned him.

Sensing the Emperor’s anger, the Minister of Fortune was startled, then relieved. The Emperor’s bad mood might actually be a good thing. He bowed and, after subtly hinting at Ming Jian Su’s involvement in the “Vermilion Bird Elder’s” strange death, even though the case had been closed by the Celestial Pivot Department, finally got to the point. “The Celestial Feather Ministry has confiscated the assets of the Vermilion Bird Elder, but they refuse to hand them over to the Heavenly Prosperity Department,” he said with a sigh, feigning indignation. “My disciple Jing De went to inquire and was threatened by the East Abode Master. He’s been anxious and fearful ever since. Please, Your Majesty, uphold justice for us!”

The Heavenly Emperor didn’t know how much the Vermilion Bird Elder’s assets were worth. He normally wouldn’t concern himself with such trivial matters. But he was in a foul mood, and his resentment towards Ming Jian Su had reached its peak. “Take my decree to the Celestial Feather Ministry!” he said coldly.

The Minister of Fortune had been waiting for those words. He suppressed his delight and asked cautiously, “What if the East Abode Master refuses to comply?”

The words “refuse to comply” struck a nerve. A flash of fury crossed the Heavenly Emperor’s eyes. “Then arrest her on the spot!” he roared. He flipped his wrist, and a purple seal appeared in mid-air. He grabbed a decree, stamped it with the seal, and pushed it towards the Minister of Fortune.

This seal, called the “Heavenly Constitution Seal,” was an artifact created by the Heavenly Dao itself, representing the Heavenly Emperor’s absolute authority. Once a decree was stamped with this seal, it could invoke the power of the Heavenly Dao to suppress all immortals. The Minister of Fortune felt a surge of confidence. However, he wasn’t satisfied yet. This decree was a powerful tool, but the person wielding it might not be able to utilize its full potential. He smiled awkwardly. “I’m afraid few in the Heavenly Court are a match for the East Abode Master.”

The Heavenly Emperor’s frown deepened. Chang Li was away, and Ming Yuheng was close friends with Ming Jian Su, both having ascended from the lower realm. After witnessing the deaths of Bai Yang Star Monarch and Yuan Yao Star Monarch, those Star Monarchs who shirked their duties might not be willing to take on this task. His mind raced. After a long moment, he said coldly, “Ask the West Sea Lord to accompany you.”

“Yes, Your Majesty,” the Minister of Fortune replied.

***

With the Heavenly Emperor’s decree in hand, the Minister of Fortune felt emboldened. However, he didn’t want to completely antagonize Ming Jian Su. So before setting out, he sent her a message through the Chaos Mirror, a final warning disguised as a friendly reminder. If she was wise, he wouldn’t have to involve Bai Guchan.

Upon seeing the Minister of Fortune’s “ultimatum,” Ming Jian Su remained silent. It was Feng Chiyue who scoffed first.

She took out the Chaos Mirror and, after fiddling with it for a moment, made the Heavenly Emperor’s decree public.

Her actions caused an uproar. The human immortals watched with amusement, while the feathered and aquatic lineages were in an uproar.

— All assets belong to the Heavenly Prosperity Department, but they will no longer provide us with Cinnabar Jade or elixirs? What does this mean? Do they expect us to work for free?

— If the Heavenly Emperor wants to dismiss all feathered and aquatic officials, just say it!

— What is the Heavenly Court trying to do? Cast us aside after using us?

— I bet this is related to the Celestial Feather Ministry’s reforms.

…

This matter directly affected their interests. Even the most cautious and timid immortals couldn’t help but voice their outrage.

The Vermilion Birds, Bifang, and the others in Danxue Mountain were also dissatisfied. Their children and juniors, registered as officials, also received monthly allowances from the Heavenly Prosperity Department. Now that the Department refused to accept their requests, weren’t they being excluded as well? However, they didn’t make a fuss. Any discerning person could see that this was a power struggle between the Heavenly Emperor and the Celestial Feather Ministry. It wouldn’t last long. As soon as one side backed down, everything would return to normal. They resented the Heavenly Emperor, but their hatred towards Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue ran even deeper. They eagerly awaited their downfall.

While the main lineages of Danxue Mountain could control their members, the smaller lineages under their jurisdiction were furious. They never received any benefits, but they were always implicated in any trouble. Their elders had approached Danxue Mountain several times but had received no satisfactory answers. Meanwhile, Phoenix Mountain had made a significant move, donating their mines to the Celestial Feather Ministry to compensate for their lost funding. This gesture swayed many of the smaller lineages. They didn’t dare to openly side with Phoenix Mountain, but they secretly supported the Celestial Feather Ministry. Their attitude shifted from initial uncooperativeness to eager assistance.

Ming Jian Su ignored the arguments raging on the Chaos Mirror. She pondered the Minister of Fortune’s words, a threat disguised as a warning, and suspected that the Heavenly Emperor might have used that particular technique. She disliked that kind of suppression and needed to find a way to counter it. She looked down at Feng Chiyue. “I need to go out for a while, Junior Sister,” she said softly.

Feng Chiyue nodded, not asking where she was going.

She lay on the bed and opened Ying Cunxin’s name seal, reading her long, rambling messages.

Ying Cunxin was describing her predicament, caught between a rock and a hard place, unsure of what to do.

An idea struck Feng Chiyue. “The root of the problem is that you’re too weak,” she wrote.

Ying Cunxin humbly asked for advice, and Feng Chiyue, with nothing better to do, offered a few pointers.

Finally, Ying Cunxin asked, “Did the Heavenly Princess reveal all these weaknesses herself?” She was starting to think that the princess was a bit foolish.

Feng Chiyue ignored her, thinking listlessly, “Why isn’t Elder Sister back yet? Did she run away again?”

***

Leaving Dong’e Mountain, Ming Jian Su headed towards the Great Yin Celestial Mother’s Palace.

With tensions running high between the Celestial Mother and the Heavenly Emperor, she didn’t reside in the Purple Empyrean Palace on Kunlun Mountain. She had established her own separate abode.

The palace complex was a magnificent sight, with a bright moon hanging above it, casting a cool, silvery light.

Ming Jian Su walked along a canal, stepping onto a pristine lotus floating on the water. The river seemed to stretch endlessly, and the lotus beneath her feet, shimmering like moonlight, threatened to sink at any moment. Her expression remained calm, her cloak and sleeves billowing in the wind, her bearing elegant and ethereal.

Moments later, the moonlit river vanished, and she found herself before a palace adorned with carved railings and jade tiles.

A soft chuckle echoed through the air. The Celestial Mother materialized before her, a faint smile playing on her lips. “Your heart is as clear as glass, East Abode Master. No wonder you managed to pass my Test of Dust Heart.” With a wave of her sleeve, a stone table and chairs appeared, along with two cups of steaming tea.

The Celestial Mother’s hospitality was genuine, and Ming Jian Su didn’t hesitate to accept it. After bowing, she sat down opposite her.

The Celestial Mother studied her with a smile. She had been in seclusion for a long time and was seeing Ming Jian Su up close for the first time. “Have you come regarding the Celestial Feather Ministry, East Abode Master?” she asked.

Ming Jian Su nodded. She had accepted the Celestial Mother’s decree to oversee the Ministry. Now that the authority had been divided between the Heavenly Emperor and the Celestial Mother, it was appropriate to consult the Celestial Mother on this matter. She didn’t believe that the Celestial Mother was unaware of the Heavenly Emperor’s recent actions. After a moment of thought, she stated her purpose directly. “The Emperor is opposed to any changes within the Celestial Feather Ministry. He’s been trying to suppress us, even cutting off our funding. I’m not afraid of confrontation, but I would like to know your opinion before proceeding.”

The Celestial Mother waved her hand, and a golden decree appeared on the table.

Ming Jian Su glanced at it and smiled. She wasn’t interested in the flowery language but rather the seal affixed to it, representing the Celestial Mother’s authority and imbued with the power of the Heavenly Dao. She tucked the decree into her sleeve, met the Celestial Mother’s gaze, and said, “Thank you, Celestial Mother.” She was grateful not only for the present support but also for the Celestial Mother’s act of kindness a thousand years ago. She knew that not all immortals were like the Heavenly Emperor.

“You went to the Realm Beyond Heaven?” the Celestial Mother asked suddenly.

Ming Jian Su didn’t hide anything. “Yes,” she said, nodding.

The Celestial Mother looked at her intently. “They are his supporters,” she said.

“So what?” Ming Jian Su said dismissively. Those people would meet their end sooner or later. Seeing the Celestial Mother’s slight bewilderment, she pressed on, asking casually, “Where does the Mandate of Heaven reside?” Despite her casual tone, her eyes were filled with an unwavering determination, a sharp, chilling glint that set her apart from the lazy, frivolous immortals of the Heavenly Court.

The Celestial Mother instantly understood her meaning. She took a sip of tea and smiled. “The Mandate of Heaven resides here and now,” she said. Countless eons ago, the first Heavenly Emperor, having achieved perfect cultivation, created the Immortal Realm and, transforming into the ultimate Yang, merged with the Heavenly Dao, forming a pact with Heaven, Earth, and the Great Yin. The bearer of the Mandate of Heaven was to be born among his descendants. When the Mandate shifted, the Great Yin would give birth to the Celestial Mother to assist the Heavenly Emperor. But even the greatest merits would eventually be exhausted, and countless karmic ties eroded the pact. Now that she had a chance to break free from the constraints of that oath, why shouldn’t she strive for more?

Chapter 47 p2

Celestial Pivot Department, Grand Court of Justice.

The thunderous sound of drums echoed through the hall.

The Vermilion Bird Elder, captured by the Arrest Warrant, was forced to kneel on the ground, his hair disheveled, his appearance pathetic.

Dao Ling Star Monarch didn’t appear personally. Yunze Young Lord, presiding over the trial, fidgeted in his seat. He had received a decree from the Heavenly Emperor, stating that the Vermilion Bird Elder’s life must be spared. This meant that, regardless of the severity of his crimes, he wouldn’t be executed on the Soul Severing Platform. However, Dao Ling Star Monarch had already made her decision—a death sentence.

With both witnesses and physical evidence presented, the Vermilion Bird Elder knew he couldn’t escape punishment. His only goal was to take full responsibility, shielding Danxue Mountain from implication.

Countless divine senses converged on the Celestial Pivot Department through the Chaos Mirror, eager to watch the spectacle.

Lines of text scrolled rapidly across the screen. Although the matter had already been discussed extensively, the immortals’ enthusiasm remained undimmed.

— So Danxue Mountain held a grudge against the East Abode Master because of a Cinnabar Jade and the Zhenyu Sword. They were even willing to join forces with the demons to kill her.

— It wasn’t just the demons. There was also Yuan Yao Star Monarch from the Realm Beyond Heaven.

— The Vermilion Bird, Bifang, and the others are truly foolish! It’s thanks to the East Abode Master guarding the border that the demons haven’t invaded. They only care about their own interests, disregarding the safety of the Immortal Realm.

— The feathered lineages’ selfishness is deeply rooted.

— Fellow Daoist above, be careful. One more word, and you’ll be kicked out of the Chaos Mirror.

— This humble Daoist only has one question: Will the East Abode Master and her junior sister come?

The scrolling text suddenly stopped, then a flurry of “They’re here!” appeared, reflecting the immortals’ excitement.

Yunze Young Lord also saw Ming Jian Su. His eyelids twitched, and a wave of fear and anxiety washed over him. He looked around, relieved not to see Feng Chiyue. Without Feng Chiyue, the East Abode Master wouldn’t be “blinded by lust” and do something that would embarrass everyone.

“Why did you target the East Abode Master?” the court official asked, following protocol.

The Vermilion Bird Elder scoffed. If Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue hadn’t gone too far, would they have resorted to such measures? His eyes flashed with malice. “Ming Jian Su killed our juniors, burned our Danxue Mountain, and stole our Zhenyu Sword. Shouldn’t I kill her?”

Yunze Young Lord knew about these incidents. The mysterious deaths of the feathered juniors had been left unsolved, and as for the fire in Danxue Mountain… well, wasn’t that divine retribution? He signaled to the official, who immediately said, “The Zhenyu Sword was legally acquired by the East Abode Master for a Cinnabar Jade. How could you hold a grudge over such a matter, allowing your inner demons to manifest and leading you to commit such a grave crime? According to the Heavenly Court’s laws, colluding with the demons warrants execution. However, in consideration of Danxue Mountain’s contributions to the Heavenly Court, your death sentence will be commuted to permanent imprisonment in the Grand Court of Justice!”

The Vermilion Bird Elder had expected this outcome. He lowered his gaze, his face cold.

“Danxue Mountain’s contributions?” Ming Jian Su spoke up at this moment. “Are you implying that it wasn’t just the Vermilion Bird Elder who colluded with the demons, but all the lineages in Danxue Mountain?” Her words threatened to escalate the situation. The official fell silent, and Yunze Young Lord felt a surge of panic.

“I take full responsibility for my actions. What does it have to do with the other lineages?” the Vermilion Bird Elder glared at Ming Jian Su, his gaze like a poisoned arrow.

Ming Jian Su raised an eyebrow. “It seems you’re quite wealthy, Fellow Daoist,” she said calmly. “We won’t mention the source of the bribes you offered to the demons for now. But the Cinnabar Jade, artifacts, and treasures that ended up in the hands of those wandering immortals and the Star Monarch are countless. Surely, you couldn’t have gathered all that by yourself? Are you telling me that the Swan Goose, Bifang, and Golden Pheasant lineages weren’t involved?” She smiled, but her eyes were as cold as ice.

The official gulped and turned to the Vermilion Bird Elder. “What do you have to say?”

The Vermilion Bird Elder hadn’t expected Ming Jian Su to attack from this angle. He frowned and said through gritted teeth, “It was all my personal wealth!”

Ming Jian Su looked at him with a smile that wasn’t quite a smile. “Are you telling me that the mines and spiritual fruits from Chongming Mountain, Tianheng Mountain, Tianqing Mountain, and Xuanwu Mountain… all belong to you personally?”

The generous rewards hadn’t been prepared by him alone. He couldn’t even remember all the details. Hearing the names listed by Ming Jian Su, his expression grew increasingly grim. If he said “no,” would she demand to see the account books and implicate others? What was she trying to do?! The Vermilion Bird Elder’s anger reached its peak. His face tightened, and he raised his voice. “Yes!”

Ming Jian Su looked at the official. “Did you get all that?”

The official’s face flushed red. He nodded hastily.

Que Chenyi, who was watching from the sidelines, suddenly understood Ming Jian Su’s intentions. She hurriedly instructed Qing Xun to note down the names of those mountains. She had come here prepared for a tough battle, but the East Abode Master had arrived personally. As expected, there was nothing she couldn’t handle!

“Are there any further questions?” Yunze Young Lord asked, wiping the cold sweat from his forehead, hoping that Ming Jian Su would shut up.

“I suspect he’s lying,” Ming Jian Su said, walking to the center of the hall, stopping a few steps away from the Vermilion Bird Elder. She smiled sweetly. “Isn’t the Celestial Pivot Department authorized to use forbidden techniques? Why don’t we search his soul?”

Yunze Young Lord: “…” His face alternated between red and white. Wasn’t she just trying to stir up trouble? He gritted his teeth. “Using forbidden techniques requires permission from the Star Monarch.”

“Then send someone to ask for permission,” Ming Jian Su said calmly.

Que Chenyi signaled to Qing Xun, then, disguising her voice, shouted in agreement. A moment later, the crowd outside erupted, chanting, “Search! Search! Search!”

The Vermilion Bird Elder would never allow his soul to be searched. If all his secrets were exposed, he would never escape the Senluo Prison! Ming Jian Su was trying to force him to his death! Consumed by rage, he suddenly broke free from his restraints. With a roar, he channeled his power into his magic sword and slashed at Ming Jian Su. “Ming Jian Su, you’ve gone too far!”

A cold glint flashed in Ming Jian Su’s eyes, but she didn’t move.

Everyone watched as the Vermilion Bird Elder, breaking free from his bonds, attacked Ming Jian Su with his crimson blade. But Ming Jian Su’s sword energy automatically defended her, its light as bright as a shooting star. In a flash of cold light, a grey-white head flew into the air, spraying blood. The roar still echoed in their ears, but in an instant, the enraged Vermilion Bird Elder was dead.

Ming Jian Su seemed to snap out of a daze and took a step back. A look of surprise appeared on her face, and she said in a heartbroken voice, “Fellow Daoist Vermilion, what have you done?”

Yunze Young Lord: “…” Looking at the corpse on the ground, he felt a splitting headache. If it had been a simple decapitation, a few spells could reattach the head. However, the moment the Vermilion Bird Elder had charged into Ming Jian Su’s sword, his soul had been completely obliterated, leaving no trace of life. Had Ming Jian Su done it intentionally? She must have. But it was the Vermilion Bird Elder who had attacked in front of everyone. There was no way to blame her. He was still trying to figure out how to handle the situation when a blinding purple light suddenly appeared. The light pulsed, and a figure clad in purple Daoist robes and a jade crown stepped out. It was Dao Ling Star Monarch.

Dao Ling Star Monarch bowed to Ming Jian Su in a gesture of greeting between fellow Daoists. “The Vermilion Bird Elder committed suicide out of fear of punishment,” she said calmly. “Until Danxue Mountain is cleared of suspicion of colluding with the demons, no one is allowed to leave the mountain.” She raised her hand, and a decree appeared in her palm, settling the matter.

Yunze Young Lord didn’t object. The Vermilion Bird Elder was dead, and it was his own fault. Even if the Heavenly Emperor wanted to hold someone accountable, it wouldn’t be him.

With the case concluded, Ming Jian Su declined Dao Ling Star Monarch’s invitation and left the Celestial Pivot Department.

Feng Chiyue, who had been hiding in her sleeve, emerged and perched on her shoulder, her spirits high.

Ming Jian Su smiled. “You’ve worked hard, Junior Sister,” she said softly. The Vermilion Bird Elder’s outburst had been fueled by anger, but it was also due to her junior sister discreetly using her “Virtuous Sound” technique. Their goal had been achieved. The process wasn’t important.

“Immortal Monarch,” a familiar voice called out from behind them. Ming Jian Su turned and saw Que Chenyi and Qing Xun.

The other immortals didn’t pay much attention to the small bird on Ming Jian Su’s shoulder, but Que Chenyi and Qing Xun, both members of the feathered lineages, had sharp senses. Their gazes instinctively shifted to Feng Chiyue. Feng Chiyue ignored them and nuzzled Ming Jian Su’s neck, urging her to hurry up and leave. The brush of her soft feathers against Ming Jian Su’s skin was as thrilling as a gentle caress. Ming Jian Su lowered her gaze, her eyes darkening. She picked up Feng Chiyue and, without changing her expression, looked at Que Chenyi. “Is something the matter?” she asked.

Que Chenyi remembered the reason she had come. “The Vermilion Bird Elder has been found guilty,” she said. “His assets…”

“Should naturally belong to the Celestial Feather Ministry,” Ming Jian Su finished her sentence matter-of-factly. It was perfect timing. Now that the Heavenly Emperor had cut off their connection with the Heavenly Prosperity Department, the Vermilion Bird Elder’s vast wealth would allow the entire Ministry to function again.

Reassured by her confirmation, Que Chenyi beamed. “I’ll go take inventory immediately,” she said, nodding.

Ming Jian Su made a noncommittal sound. “Take Zhenyu with you,” she said. “If there’s anything you can’t handle, come to Dong’e Mountain.” She hoped the other immortals would be sensible enough not to disturb her and her junior sister’s happy life.

***

With the Celestial Feather Ministry now wealthy, Que Chenyi held her head high.

Without needing to be prompted, she immediately returned to the Ministry and added Chang Huai, the ruthless artisan, back to her contact list. She didn’t even bother chatting with her. She simply selected a few capable Mountain Patrol Emissaries and sent them to take over the new, resource-rich mines.

In the Heavenly Prosperity Department.

Upon hearing about the Vermilion Bird Elder’s fate, the Minister of Fortune sighed dramatically. He didn’t care about the Elder’s life or death. He was simply thinking about the Elder’s “personal wealth.” Typically, the assets of convicted criminals were confiscated and registered with the Heavenly Prosperity Department, allowing them to skim some profit. After feigning a moment of sympathy, he summoned his disciples and ordered them to collect the Vermilion Bird Elder’s assets. If they were late, the Vermilion Birds might secretly transfer everything.

However, several hours later, his disciples returned empty-handed.

The Minister of Fortune assumed that the Vermilion Birds were disobeying the rules. Anger surged within him, and he was about to go complain to the Heavenly Emperor.

It was Jing De Immortal Monarch, his face etched with worry, who spoke up. “Master, we were too late. Those assets have been transferred to the Celestial Feather Ministry’s treasury.”

The Minister of Fortune frowned. “Does the Celestial Feather Ministry’s treasury even have a vault? Perhaps they’ll send everything over tomorrow?”

But after waiting patiently for three days, he still didn’t see any sign of the assets being delivered. He couldn’t stand it anymore and sent his disciples to inquire.

Jing De Immortal Monarch, once the most short-tempered among them, was now a shadow of his former self, tormented by fear. In the end, “nominated” by his fellow disciples, he became the one tasked with going to the Celestial Feather Ministry to demand an explanation.

Que Chenyi was busy taking inventory and updating the records. Hearing that Jing De Immortal Monarch had arrived, she frowned and said without looking up, “I’m busy.”

Jing De Immortal Monarch waited impatiently, his Fuchen swaying restlessly. Whenever anger flared within him, a glance at the thunder pillar suspending the Swan Goose would instantly extinguish it.

“Isn’t this Fellow Daoist Jing De?” A cold voice suddenly came from behind him. Jing De’s eyes widened in terror, and his body stiffened. He slowly turned his head, his gaze, filled with fear, fixed on the shadow on the ground instead of daring to look up. The wind blew, and the tinkling of the golden bells on the chariot seemed to echo his unforgivable sins. The next moment, he would be sent to the Yellow Springs to join the Vermilion Bird Elder.

Chapter 47 p1

It might sound like robbery, but it was the others who had started the trouble. They were the innocent ones, merely collecting a little compensation for emotional distress.

This thought crossed Ming Jian Su’s mind, and she nodded firmly, endorsing Feng Chiyue’s words. “You’re right, Junior Sister!”

Feng Chiyue beamed, hearing Ming Jian Su’s approval. “Are the Star Monarchs in the Realm Beyond Heaven really so well-behaved?” she asked, a hint of regret in her voice. Didn’t that guy try to intimidate them upon their arrival? Why were they all so quiet now, like quail? What a pity.

A cold glint flashed in Ming Jian Su’s eyes. Many of the Star Monarchs in the Realm Beyond Heaven were already on her list. However, with the Heavenly Emperor still in power, there was no justification for attacking them. It would only bring trouble. She would have her revenge eventually. Suppressing her killing intent, she smiled. “Perhaps they’re scared.”

The Star Monarchs in the Realm Beyond Heaven were indeed terrified by the sword scar that had split the sky. Even the usually arrogant Ming He Star Monarch hadn’t made any further moves. The East Abode Master could kill Yuan Yao, and she could kill them too. Besides, she was the “Heavenly Emperor’s Emissary” and wasn’t registered in the Realm Beyond Heaven. There was no reason for them to get involved. A few feathered Star Monarchs harbored resentment, but Yuan Yao’s collusion with the demons had been poorly executed, and they didn’t want to be tainted by that scandal. Thus, no one tried to stop Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue as they left Yuan Yao’s abode.

“Let’s go,” Ming Jian Su whispered. She channeled her vast magic power, creating a gate between the Immortal Realm and the Realm Beyond Heaven. Their figures gradually vanished amidst the five-colored light, leaving only the towering Jianmu tree to serve as a bridge between the realms.

***

Ming Jian Su had been ordered by the Heavenly Emperor to stop the demons at the battlefield. Now that peace had been restored, she had to report to him. However, the Emperor didn’t appear personally. A young attendant simply accepted her message. Ming Jian Su didn’t care about his attitude. She scoffed and turned to leave.

Only after she was gone did the Heavenly Emperor appear, his face dark. The incident at the battlefield had been resolved. The Vermilion Bird and Swan Goose lineages, without Chang Li to guide them, were always making foolish mistakes. After several setbacks, the Phoenix hadn’t revived, but Danxue Mountain’s power had been effectively crippled. While things hadn’t gone in the worst possible direction, he felt a knot of frustration in his chest, a pressure he couldn’t release. He could only suppress it forcefully.

***

Leaving the Purple Empyrean Palace, Ming Jian Su went straight to Dong’e Mountain.

Feng Chiyue was already waiting on the swing, while Zhu Wan, sorting through the Qiankun bags, chattered incessantly about recent events. Although she knew that Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue had a deep connection to the battlefield, she still recounted everything with gusto, gleefully denouncing those from Danxue Mountain, her face alight with schadenfreude.

Feng Chiyue was in a good mood. She swung back and forth gently, her toes brushing the ground. When Zhu Wan finally finished her long speech, she asked casually, “The Heavenly Emperor has cut off the Celestial Feather Ministry’s funding? They can no longer obtain Cinnabar Jade, scriptures, or artifacts from the Heavenly Prosperity Department?”

“Yes,” Zhu Wan confirmed, but her expression quickly turned gloomy. “Fellow Daoist Que has mentioned several times that the Ministry is running low on funds.”

Feng Chiyue made a noncommittal sound and didn’t ask any further questions. What did the Celestial Feather Ministry’s lack of resources have to do with her? Did they expect Dong’e Mountain to provide for them? No way!

“The Heavenly Emperor is trying to force them back in line,” Ming Jian Su said, arriving just in time to overhear their conversation. She chuckled coldly, understanding his intentions all too well.

The Heavenly Emperor, having sat on his throne for so long, had never faced any major setbacks besides the war between gods and demons a thousand years ago. He still believed that everything would go his way. It was true that the Celestial Feather Ministry’s treasury wasn’t overflowing, but the Vermilion Bird and their allies in Danxue Mountain were wealthy. Now that the Celestial Feather Ministry’s personnel were no longer controlled by the Heavenly Mechanism Department and they were completely separated from the Heavenly Prosperity Department, achieving complete independence would be much easier.

The Heavenly Emperor had made a foolish move. The feathered lineages had their own cultivation techniques and didn’t need the Wenqu Palace of the Heavenly Prosperity Department. They only lacked elixirs and artifacts, but that was easily remedied. Were all the alchemists and artisans in the Immortal Realm concentrated in the Heavenly Prosperity Department?

“The Celestial Pivot Department is going to hold a public trial for the Vermilion Bird Elder and the others,” Zhu Wan said, excitement bubbling in her voice. She was eager to watch the spectacle. “The evidence is undeniable. I wonder if they’ll be imprisoned in the Senluo Prison or executed on the Soul Severing Platform?”

The Senluo Prison held criminals from the Heavenly Court, but even “permanent imprisonment” didn’t mean there was no chance of release. However, execution on the Soul Severing Platform meant true death, the complete annihilation of body and soul. Ming Jian Su naturally hoped for the latter. She walked towards Feng Chiyue and helped her off the swing, shooing away the birds that had gathered around them. “Do you want to go watch, Junior Sister?” she asked.

“Isn’t it being broadcast on the Chaos Mirror?” Feng Chiyue said lazily.

Ming Jian Su blinked. “I’m afraid the Celestial Pivot Department might go easy on them under the Heavenly Emperor’s orders. Permanent imprisonment and execution make no difference to most immortals. They won’t care.” But to her, enemies were best dealt with permanently. A half-dead enemy was still a potential threat.

Feng Chiyue hummed. “We’ll see.” With Ming Jian Su’s return, she had lost interest in the Vermilion Bird Elder’s fate. She leaned against Ming Jian Su, her body boneless, and yawned, covering her mouth with her hand. Seeing that she was no longer interested in thinking, Ming Jian Su scooped her up and carried her towards the Dharma Hall.

Zhu Wan, who had been ignored: “…” She sighed at the birds on the ground, then took out the Chaos Mirror and sent a message to Que Chenyi. “My Master and her junior sister are back, but the matters of the Celestial Feather Ministry are still up to you.” After a moment, a name seal lit up. Zhu Wan assumed it was Que Chenyi, but upon closer inspection, she realized it was Chang Huai from the Heavenly Prosperity Department.

— Does the Celestial Feather Ministry need a resident artisan? The salary is higher than the Dragon Cauldron Palace, and you only need to work four hours a day.

Although the major changes in the Heavenly Prosperity Department and the Celestial Feather Ministry didn’t directly affect those who worked behind the scenes, Chang Huai was still restless after hearing the news. She was just an insignificant artisan in the Dragon Cauldron Palace, at the beck and call of others. Without any backing, even with her exceptional skills, she had no chance of advancement. Moreover, “a tall tree catches the wind.” After word got out that she had crafted puppet servants for the Celestial Feather Ministry, she had been ostracized by several Heavenly Immortal officials! They had even tried to turn her roommates against her! Life after ascension was truly miserable. Thankfully, none of her juniors had ascended yet. Otherwise, she would have been utterly humiliated. But what if? What if one of her juniors ascended and asked, “Why are you so poor and unknown, Grandmaster?” What would she say?

She had had enough of this miserable life. She would rather choose a side early on and enjoy some benefits.

It was true that, after the separation, the Celestial Feather Ministry needed its own artisans and alchemists, but what did that have to do with her? She was an immortal from Dong’e Mountain, not a servant of the Celestial Feather Ministry.

“Go talk to Que Chenyi,” Zhu Wan replied.

“She deleted my name seal,” Chang Huai said.

Zhu Wan: “?”

“Just thinking about it makes me angry. There was a minor malfunction with the puppet servants due to overuse, and she actually questioned my skills, accusing me of trying to cheat her out of Cinnabar Jade!”

Zhu Wan put away the Chaos Mirror without changing her expression.

She couldn’t imagine how chaotic the Celestial Feather Ministry would become if Chang Huai joined them.

***

Although she had claimed to be uninterested in the Celestial Pivot Department’s trial of the Vermilion Bird Elder, when the day arrived, Feng Chiyue still got out of bed, her eyes still heavy with sleep.

Seeing her slumped on the bed, Ming Jian Su couldn’t bear to wake her fully and coaxed her to go back to sleep. Feng Chiyue mumbled a refusal. Before Ming Jian Su could help her get dressed, she transformed into a small white ball of fluff and clung to her, determined to go with her. Ming Jian Su’s gaze softened. She stroked the soft fur and was gently pecked by Feng Chiyue. She chuckled and, adjusting her Daoist crown, stepped out.

Zhu Wan, who was already waiting outside, was surprised not to see Feng Chiyue. But then she realized that, with her Master handling things, it was perfectly reasonable for Feng Chiyue to stay in bed. She remained silent for a moment, then brought up Chang Huai’s request to join the Celestial Feather Ministry. When Ming Jian Su nodded, she added, “We also need an alchemist. Are you planning to do it yourself, Immortal Monarch?”

Ming Jian Su’s brow furrowed. “Are they worthy?” she asked, her voice sharp. Have her junior sister concoct elixirs for them? What a ridiculous thought! They wouldn’t die without elixirs. And if they were truly on the verge of death, no amount of elixirs would save them.

A chill ran down Zhu Wan’s spine. She shrank back, not daring to speak.

Her Master, with her usual immortal grace and composure, probably only existed in her imagination.

 

Chapter 46 p2

***

The Heavenly Emperor also received news from the Realm Beyond Heaven.

He hadn’t expected Ming Jian Su to go there. Yuan Yao Star Monarch was already dead. Was she still investigating? Investigating whom? Was she planning to implicate the other feathered Star Monarchs and wipe them all out? Did she think he had spent the past thousand years supporting the Vermilion Bird and Bifang lineages for nothing?

He didn’t believe that Ming Jian Su was acting on her own. Ever since the Celestial Mother emerged from seclusion, everything in the Heavenly Court had been going wrong. He was losing control. He had thought that Feng Chiyue’s arrival would only cause a minor disturbance, but it turned out to be the beginning, a harbinger of a storm! The Celestial Feather Ministry was changing, the Four Seas Department was undergoing reforms, and even the immortals of human origin were grumbling. If it weren’t for the fact that the Heavenly Mechanism Department and the Heavenly Prosperity Department were completely under his control, they might have followed the same path as the Celestial Feather Ministry!

“Did you order her to do this?” he demanded, confronting the Great Yin Celestial Mother. His trusted general was purging the Celestial Feather Ministry under the Celestial Mother’s command, causing turmoil in the Heavenly Court. His daughter, rebellious and defiant, refused to return from Asura City and was determined to uncover the root of the conflict on the battlefield. All this was the Celestial Mother’s doing!

The Celestial Mother’s expression was calm and indifferent, like the still waters of an abyss. She met his gaze. Although she didn’t know what he was talking about, judging from his fury, it was probably something unfavorable to him. Her silence was taken as confirmation. The Heavenly Emperor took a deep breath. “Our discord will disrupt the balance between yin and yang, giving the demons an opportunity!”

The Celestial Mother flicked her sleeve. “Is the world out of balance now?” she asked, her tone unconcerned.

The Heavenly Emperor frowned. The Star of Destiny was constantly shifting, indicating that the Mandate of Heaven was in flux. His position as the Heavenly Emperor was precarious. “We are one,” he said, trying to reason with her. “Going against my path won’t benefit you.”

The Celestial Mother’s expression turned cold. From the moment she was born from the Great Yin, both the pronouncements of the Mandate of Heaven and the words of the immortals had emphasized that the Great Yin existed to accompany and assist the Heavenly Emperor. She was tired of hearing it! Even if the Heavenly Emperor had been willing to follow her lead, she would have found it unbearable. She had only one goal—to claim the entire Mandate of Heaven for herself! “You’re welcome to try and stop me,” she said coldly.

The Heavenly Emperor rubbed his forehead in frustration. “You make it sound so simple. If these reforms are fully implemented, will those high-ranking officials accept it? Will the Star Monarchs in the Realm Beyond Heaven agree? Their resistance will disrupt the functioning of the Heavenly Court. If the demons invade, those Star Monarchs might refuse to fight!”

The Celestial Mother scoffed.

All his arguments were meaningless. The fundamental reason was that his Mandate of Heaven was built upon the existing system and order. Once that order collapsed, his Mandate would shift, and a new Heavenly Emperor, destined to face tribulation, would emerge. Then the Great Yin would give birth to a new being, destined to become the new Emperor’s consort. Guided by the Mandate of Heaven, the Heavenly Emperor and the Great Yin complemented each other, the cycle repeating endlessly.

The Heavenly Emperor’s face darkened. The Celestial Mother’s long seclusion had blurred his memory of her, but as she reappeared, her increasingly clear features were like a thorn in his side. He couldn’t help but recall the scene after the Fall of the Phoenix, her expression filled with disdain and arrogance, as if he, the Heavenly Emperor, was nothing but an insignificant ant.

“You want reforms? Fine,” he said with a cold laugh. “Since the Celestial Feather Ministry and the Four Seas Department desire change, let’s change everything. From this day forward, they will be responsible for their own expenses. The Heavenly Prosperity Department will no longer provide for them!” Channeling his divine power, he made a decree, which transformed into a beam of light, shooting towards the Heavenly Prosperity Department. The Four Seas possessed abundant resources and had never relied much on the Heavenly Prosperity Department. However, the Celestial Feather Ministry, under the previous leadership of Danxue Mountain, had always blurred the lines between public and private funds. They might not even be able to pay their officials’ salaries with their own resources.

The Celestial Mother knew exactly what he was doing. He was trying to force the Celestial Feather Ministry back into line by cutting off their funds.

***

In the Heavenly Prosperity Department.

The Minister of Fortune, observing the events unfolding on the Chaos Mirror, felt grateful that he hadn’t ended up in the Heavenly Mechanism Department or the Celestial Pivot Department. However, his relief was short-lived. He soon received the Heavenly Emperor’s decree. All officials, regardless of their origin, received a certain amount of elixirs, artifacts, and scriptures, all distributed by the Heavenly Prosperity Department. Now, the Celestial Feather Ministry and the Four Seas Department were being excluded? If this was implemented, it would certainly save them a considerable sum. Although, according to the rules, those departments were supposed to submit their own income to the Heavenly Prosperity Department, in reality, very little actually reached them. On paper, the Heavenly Prosperity Department was losing money because of them.

“The Celestial Mother currently oversees the Celestial Feather Ministry and the Four Seas Department. Will this offend her?” Jing De Immortal Monarch asked cautiously. His previously fiery temper had been completely extinguished. He now lived in constant fear, afraid that Ming Jian Su would storm into the Supreme Palace and cut him down. After all, most of those who had offended Feng Chiyue had been reduced to ashes. He felt that his own death was imminent, but the executioner’s blade had yet to fall, leaving him in a state of perpetual anxiety.

“Who granted you your position, the Heavenly Emperor or the Celestial Mother?” the Minister of Fortune frowned, glancing at Jing De’s dejected expression with disdain.

Jing De Immortal Monarch opened his mouth to reply, but his fellow disciple, sitting beside him, tugged at his sleeve. He immediately fell silent.

The Minister of Fortune had no intention of discussing this with his disciples. He was the sole authority in the Heavenly Prosperity Department. “Post an announcement on the Chaos Mirror,” he instructed. “We don’t want anyone claiming we didn’t warn them.”

***

In the Celestial Feather Ministry.

Qing Xun, clutching the Chaos Mirror, rushed towards Que Chenyi like a whirlwind, passing by the other officials.

Que Chenyi was drawing a map of the feathered lineages’ settlements. Hearing the commotion, she quickly turned around and caught Qing Xun—the impact almost made her see stars. She gritted her teeth and silently repeated “Heavenly Phoenix Fruit” several times to suppress her annoyance. Gripping Qing Xun’s shoulders, she forced a smile. “What happened?”

Qing Xun let out a breath and said rapidly, “The Celestial Feather Ministry can no longer obtain Cinnabar Jade, elixirs, or artifacts from the Heavenly Prosperity Department. The Heavenly Emperor has issued a decree, cutting off our funding.” She looked up at Que Chenyi. “Assistant Ministry Head, someone is asking where their salary will come from.”

Que Chenyi: “…” What was wrong with the Heavenly Emperor? The Celestial Feather Ministry had a treasury, but it had always been used solely for “accounting.” The actual vault was in the Heavenly Prosperity Department. Now that they were refusing to provide funds, was he trying to eliminate the entire feathered lineage?

Qing Xun asked innocently, “Does our Ministry have any money?”

Que Chenyi turned to look at the mines marked on the map. The Mountain Patrol Emissaries were now in place, and the old accounts had been audited. She nodded firmly. “Yes.” Before Qing Xun could celebrate, she added, “But not much.” The Celestial Feather Ministry’s finances were a mess. Everyone had taken their share, leaving very little for public use. The Heavenly Prosperity Department cutting off their funds at a time when they needed them the most… wasn’t this trying to kill them?! Thankfully, they had dismissed many Feather Guard officials earlier. Could this have been the Ministry Head’s foresight?

Qing Xun was anxious. “What should we do?” She owed Dong’e Mountain a lot of spiritual fruits and was relying on her job at the Celestial Feather Ministry to repay her debt. If the Ministry was gone, what would she do?

Que Chenyi had no idea what to do, but she couldn’t panic in front of Qing Xun. She calmed herself and said slowly, “We’ll wait for the Ministry Head to return.”

Qing Xun looked up abruptly, her expression accusing.

Que Chenyi felt uncomfortable under her gaze, as if she had committed some heinous crime.

Qing Xun raised her voice. “The East Abode Master and the Ministry Head entrusted the Ministry to us!”

“Yes,” Que Chenyi agreed.

“If we just wait for the Ministry Head to return whenever something happens, what’s the point of us being here?”

Que Chenyi: “…” This little Azure Dragon was quite ambitious and motivated. She maintained her composure and asked gently, “Do you have any ideas?”

Qing Xun clasped her hands behind her back. “Confiscate their assets.” Robbery and confiscation were the most effective ways to get rich, but the former wasn’t exactly ethical for an immortal. That left the latter. She had memorized the jade slip given to her by the Ministry Head before she left. Cultivation required time, but she could put this “get-rich-quick” scheme into practice immediately.

Que Chenyi was stunned. This wasn’t the Qing Xun who had first arrived at the Celestial Feather Ministry. Was this her true nature? No wonder she had caught Dong’e Mountain’s attention. After all, even Feng Chiyue wasn’t afraid to scold her fellow phoenixes. After a moment of thought, Que Chenyi realized that this plan could actually work. The Vermilion Bird Elder from Danxue Mountain must be very wealthy. He had undeniably colluded with the demons. Shouldn’t his assets be confiscated? She gave Qing Xun a thumbs-up, thinking, “As expected of an Azure Dragon from Dong’e Mountain.”

***

In the Realm Beyond Heaven.

Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue arrived at Yuan Yao Star Monarch’s abode.

Twelve lifelike Golden Pheasant statues stood in the square outside the Dao Palace. Ming Jian Su swept her sword across them, and a shattering sound echoed through the air. The statues were crafted from high-quality materials, but the image of the Golden Pheasant was offensive no matter how she looked at it.

Yuan Yao Star Monarch had once been an official. He was far wealthier than Peng Ning, whose nest had been raided for his shady dealings. The Dao Palace contained several treasuries. Ming Jian Su sent Undefeated, along with the other two swords, to handle the treasures while she retrieved some ancient documents from a sealed jade box. She had assumed they were just ordinary letters, but after a quick glance, her expression turned cold, and anger surged within her.

Feng Chiyue, who had been examining some interesting artifacts, immediately noticed Ming Jian Su’s change in mood. She tossed aside the artifact and turned to look at her, blinking. “What’s wrong?”

Ming Jian Su forced a smile. “It’s nothing.” The “Fall of the Phoenix” had been orchestrated by the Heavenly Emperor, but there had also been involvement from the Realm Beyond Heaven. And the reason was utterly absurd! Those feathered lineages had believed that the Phoenix Sovereign wouldn’t ascend to the Upper Realm and had feared that she would threaten their power if she came to the Lower Realm! And the human Star Monarchs, eager to weaken the feathered lineages, hadn’t stopped this ridiculous scheme. Instead, they had actively supported it! None of these damned officials were innocent!

Feng Chiyue’s gaze fell on Ming Jian Su’s hand, which was clutching the jade box. “Your hand is shaking,” she observed. She approached Ming Jian Su, not minding her attempt to hide the documents, and whispered in her ear with a smile, “I won’t agree to serve you forever, you know.”

Ming Jian Su tossed aside the jade box and put away the documents. Her junior sister shouldn’t know about these troublesome matters. She wouldn’t tell her. Suppressing her anger, she pursed her lips. “It’s not shaking.”

Feng Chiyue made a noncommittal sound and fell silent. What was bothering her Elder Sister? It was related to Yuan Yao, so it must be something to do with the feathered lineages. Their existence was truly a mistake. A flicker of malice crossed her eyes, but her face remained bright and cheerful as she circled Ming Jian Su. Her gaze, like autumn waves, shifted, then she suddenly spoke. “Elder Sister, if there were more people like Yuan Yao, we would be even richer, right?”