Category: They All Want to Be My Female Lead

31 Just Playing the Fool

Among the hundred or so examinees, only five were freshmen. The rest were senior students who had spent a year in the Outer Academy and failed the Dragon Gate Selection.

For them, the special examination was a “second chance.” If they failed again, they would have to wait another year, so they were all highly motivated.

As the proctor explained the rules, the examinees stepped forward to choose their boats.

All the available boats were small, single-person skiffs; the others had been removed.

Yan Zhen boarded the nearest boat, number 86. Huangfu Wenqing chose the one next to him, number 87.

Inside each boat was a groove that acted as an “accelerator.” By stepping on it and channeling Mystic Power, the boat would move forward. Steering required shifting weight and using the other foot, making it difficult to control.

Therefore, this exam tested the examinees’ Mystic Power control and balance.

Yan Zhen looked around and saw that the other three new student representatives were far away from each other, clearly not intending to clash during the exam. However, Yan Zhen knew that Shan Ben would definitely come looking for trouble.

Shan Ben also noticed Yan Zhen’s gaze and gave him a thumbs down, his expression saying, “You’re dead.” Yan Zhen ignored him and was about to look away when he noticed Younger Aunt Dean and Aunt Shui Bailan watching him.

He immediately put on a bright, sunny smile and winked charmingly, even more exaggerated than a boy band member.

Dean Yu Qing shuddered. “What’s… what’s wrong with that brat? Is he sick?”

Head Instructor Shui Bailan blinked, her cheeks flushing slightly. She actually found Yan Zhen’s behavior a bit… cute.

“Ahem, perhaps he’s trying to reconcile with you, so he’s acting cute.”

“Reconcile? We were never on good terms!” Dean Yu Qing snorted. “Just wait until he enters the Inner Academy. My sister will deal with him—death to all scumbags!”

“But doesn’t Elder Yu Yan like obedient children?”

“He’s not a child! Just because he has a pretty face?”

“Elder Yu Yan treats all of us like children, especially Yan Zhen.”

“…”

Remembering how her older sister always patted her head in a motherly way, Dean Yu Qing was speechless.

After sufficiently annoying the Dean and the Head Instructor, Yan Zhen returned to his usual expression.

All the examinees had chosen their boats. After confirming this, the proctor announced, “Alright, everyone, take your positions. I hereby declare the special examination officially begins!”

As soon as he finished speaking, the hundred or so boats shot forward like released fish, the examinees channeling their Mystic Power.

With a group of hotheaded youngsters participating, it was predictable what would happen. Soon, boats began colliding, and fights broke out.

You block my way, I block yours.

[Ding! Key plot triggered]
[Current plot progress – Chapter 400: Special Examination]
[Acting requirements: ① When provoked by Shan Ben, show no mercy, defeat him, and knock him into the water; ② Leak your Evil Dragon aura to attract the ancient Jiao at the bottom of the river and converse with it; ③ Before the time limit, use Starry Sky Dance to fly directly to the other side, shocking everyone.]

Seeing the system’s instructions, Yan Zhen felt the urge to just fly across the river with Starry Sky Dance.

In the script, he thought he had to use the boat, so he obediently rowed, only using Starry Sky Dance at the last minute when he was about to run out of time.

Yan Zhen, while thinking about this, enveloped his boat with Spiritual Power, precisely controlling its speed and direction. He and Huangfu Wenqing were neck and neck, quickly pulling ahead of the others, becoming the leading group.

The other three new student representatives were also skilled and part of the leading group.

The two proctor instructors hovered in the air, following the boats.

Suddenly, a wave taller than a person rose from the calm water’s surface and crashed towards them.

According to the script, a thousand-year-old Jiao, the Sacred Ground Academy’s guardian beast, dwelled within the Dragon Gate River.

The Jiao slumbered in the depths, highly sensitive to unfamiliar auras. Anyone using Mystic Power on the river’s surface would trigger its vigilance, causing it to create waves.

Only students and instructors with Inner Academy badges could safely pass through the Jiao’s territory.

Clearly, this group of examinees was considered an “unfamiliar aura.”

As the wave approached, Yan Zhen tilted his boat upwards, accelerating and soaring over the wave, landing ahead.

Huangfu Wenqing, seeing this, mimicked his actions, following closely behind.

The other examinees also used their various skills to avoid the wave, but some lost their balance and fell into the water.

The proctor immediately announced their elimination!

However, this was just the beginning. As soon as Yan Zhen landed, an even larger wave crashed down, pushing him back nearly ten zhang, returning him to his original position. He was quickly overtaken by Huangfu Wenqing, Qi Yuxuan, Chu Nan, and the others.

Just as he was about to accelerate and catch up, he sensed an aura rapidly approaching from the side. Without thinking, he punched.

Bang!

A burst of force exploded, rocking his boat violently.

He saw Shan Ben charging towards him in his boat, a ferocious look on his face.

“I’m here to eliminate you, student Yan Zhen!”

Yan Zhen snorted and turned his boat, facing the charging Shan Ben.

“Bring it on!”

Their boats collided, and both of them leaped into the air, throwing a punch simultaneously.

Shan Ben cultivated Earth Mystic Power, his limbs covered in Mystic Power armor, like a stone skin technique. His massive fist was also clad in a high-grade gauntlet that amplified his Mystic Power and the impact of his attacks.

However, Yan Zhen cultivated an Emperor-level technique, and with the enhancement of his three Extreme Flames, his Mystic Power was comparable to a Mystic General’s.

Eight Extremities Burst, Second Stage, Ninth Burst!

His fist, wreathed in gold and silver flames, collided with Shan Ben’s gauntlet-clad fist. To Shan Ben’s horror, his black-gold gauntlet ignited, and an overwhelming force shattered his Mystic Power armor, followed by an explosion of internal force within his arm.

Pfft! Blood sprayed from his arm, the intense pain shooting through his brain. Shan Ben screamed.

He couldn’t understand. He had tempered his body and was wearing a Tier 4 gauntlet, a four-star Mystic Scholar, yet a single punch from a three-star Mystic Master had almost crippled his arm!

—This brat must be cheating!

Shan Ben, shocked and enraged, clutched his injured arm and retreated. But Yan Zhen wasn’t about to let him off. Still in the air, he stepped on… nothing, starlight appearing beneath his feet, propelling him forward.

Sensing the approaching danger, Shan Ben’s scalp tingled. He unleashed all his Mystic Power, creating a small mountain around himself, trapping him within.

“Immovable like a mountain!”

Yan Zhen clenched his fist, the gold and silver flames replaced by the Great Crimson Skyfire and his Blood Qi. The combined power exploded as he struck the mountain.

The mountain instantly crumbled, and Shan Ben was sent flying, coughing up blood as he landed on his boat, unable to get up.

He glared at Yan Zhen, filled with resentment. “You… you cheated! I don’t accept this!”

Yan Zhen landed back on his boat, shaking his slightly sore hand, and said calmly, “I didn’t cheat. I was just playing the fool.”

30 The Special Exam Begins

[Special Trump Card – You Are Surrounded: Activates only when facing multiple opponents. Doubles the host’s physical, spiritual, and Mystic Power cultivation.

Note: When facing four or more opponents, triggers the special effect “Divine Descent,” doubling the host’s physical, spiritual, and Mystic Power cultivation again.]

—A perfect tool for showing off. Love it.

Yan Zhen happily put away the special trump card and then took out healing pills, distributing them to the East District students.

“Sorry, Yan Zhen, for causing you trouble again.”

“Don’t mention it. Cultivate diligently and get your revenge during the exam.”

“Mm…”

Yan Zhen patted Xiao Mie’s shoulder and then left with Huangfu Wenqing.

Xiao Mie finally understood what Yan Zhen had told him before.

There was no need to suppress his cultivation before reaching Mystic Master. He should have advanced as soon as possible. He had wasted a precious year, his cultivation now lagging behind the true prodigies, turning him into a loser.

He looked up and shouted towards Yan Zhen’s back, “I’ll catch up to you, Yan Zhen! And then I’ll challenge you to another fight!”

Yan Zhen gave him an “OK” gesture without turning around and returned to the dormitory with Huangfu Wenqing. He then locked himself in his room to cultivate, entering the Fire Refining Starry Sky.

The Fire Refining Starry Sky contained incredibly pure Mystic Qi. Now that Yan Zhen was a Mystic Master and possessed three Extreme Flames, he could finally absorb and refine it.

Sitting cross-legged atop one of the towering pillars at the edge of the plaza, he circulated the Emperor Flame Technique. Visible to the naked eye, Mystic Qi gathered around him like dense fog, forming a fiery vortex that he inhaled.

The efficiency of this cultivation method was far greater than the Outer Academy’s cultivation rooms. The only drawback was that he had to pause occasionally to circulate his Extreme Flames and cleanse his meridians. Otherwise, the overly pure Mystic Qi would crystallize within them, causing blockages and potentially severe consequences.

To cultivate here without any worries, one needed to be at least at the Mystic King or Mystic Lord realm.

The most suitable place for Mystic Masters and Mystic Generals was the “Celestial Dome Pagoda” in the Inner Academy, which gathered the power of celestial wind and thunder, greatly benefiting body, Qi, and spirit cultivation.

Several of his “showing off” moments in the script took place within that pagoda.

Yan Zhen cleared his mind and immersed himself in cultivation. Two days later, reminded by Beautiful Master, he stopped cultivating and left the Fire Refining Starry Sky.

Today was the day of the special examination.

After washing up, Yan Zhen left his room, sensing Huangfu Wenqing’s presence next door, so he knocked on her door.

“Wenqing?”

“Coming~”

Huangfu Wenqing quickly opened the door and came out, heading towards the examination site—the Dragon Gate Ferry—with Yan Zhen.

There were ferries of various sizes at the Dragon Gate Ferry, allowing for normal travel between the Inner and Outer Academies.

When they arrived, the ferry was already crowded with students, a small portion of them examinees, the rest onlookers.

Beep, beep, beep, his communication talisman beeped. Yan Zhen took it out and saw messages from the four girls.

[Cousin’s Meng’er: Look]
[True Love Ruyu: Behind]
[Serious Xue: You]
[This Heart to Zhen: ~]

“?”

Yan Zhen turned around and saw the four girls walking towards him, smiling.

“Cousin~~~”

Yan Meng’er was the first to pounce on him, ignoring the public setting, her ample 36D breasts pressing against his chest beneath her academy uniform.

Yan Zhen patted his cousin’s head and created some distance between them, as Huangfu Wenqing was glaring at Yan Meng’er.

“Why are you here?”

“To cheer for you, Little Brother Yan Zhen, of course~” Mi Xue’er pumped her fist. “And after the exam, you’ll be entering the Inner Academy. We don’t know when we’ll see you again.”

“Don’t worry, even after entering the Inner Academy, I’ll come out once a month to visit you.”

The four girls’ eyes lit up.

“Really, Cousin?”

“Yes.”

“Wouldn’t that be too troublesome?” Yan Ruyu said, though she didn’t mean it. “It might affect your cultivation.”

“Don’t exaggerate. It’s just like taking a one or two-day break each month.”

“That’s great.”

Just then, a voice interrupted them. “—Yo, boasting to the girls before the exam even starts?”

They turned and saw Shan Ben, the four-star Mystic Master representing the West District, who had a record of defeating five-star Mystic Masters.

He walked over with a few other West District examinees.

“Tsk, tsk, tsk, surrounded by five beauties. Student Yan Zhen is quite the ladies’ man. We’re all so envious.”

The four girls frowned, Huangfu Wenqing’s expression turning to disgust. Yan Zhen, however, remained impassive.

“What do you want?”

“Don’t you know?” Shan Ben stood before Yan Zhen, looking him over. “You showed off against our West District students the other day. They told me everything. I didn’t expect a scrawny, three-star Mystic Master like you to have such—”

Yan Zhen raised his hand, interrupting him. “—Wait, my limbs are perfectly normal. Your gorilla-like arms and legs are the result of improper body tempering.”

Pfft!

The girls couldn’t help but giggle.

The playful look on Shan Ben’s face vanished, replaced by a dark expression.

“Sharp tongue. I hope your skills are just as sharp. Otherwise, you won’t pass this special exam. You’ll be stuck in the Outer Academy, flirting with your girlfriends, hehe.”

Shan Ben and his group left.

Yan Zhen curled his lip, thinking, You’ll learn your lesson soon.

If it weren’t for the script requiring him to deal with this guy during the exam, he would have already beaten him to a pulp. A four-star Mystic Master who couldn’t even do body tempering properly, and he dared to act so arrogant?

“Such an annoying guy. Be careful, Cousin.”

“He’s just a clown.”

“What are you going to do, Yan Zhen? I want to beat him up.”

“Ahem, calm down, Wenqing. I can handle him.”

“Alright.”

As they spoke, a group of instructors arrived, led by Dean Yu Qing and Head Instructor Shui Bailan.

The importance of the year’s first special examination was second only to the year-end Dragon Gate Selection, so half of the Outer Academy instructors were present.

Bai Yue was also there, hoping to see Yan Zhen fail. He had even lent Shan Ben a Tier 4 Mystic Tool gauntlet.

Although Yan Zhen had been forced to separate from Instructor Yu Xuan, Bai Yue was still worried that if he performed too well, the Yu family might change their minds. Therefore, he wanted to hinder Yan Zhen’s progress.

However, the special examination was primarily overseen by Inner Academy instructors.

Shortly after the Outer Academy instructors arrived, two Inner Academy instructors flew over from the other side of the river, bowed to Dean Yu Qing, and then said, “The special examination is about to begin. We’ll now explain the rules.”

“All examinees, step forward and choose a ferry to cross the river. Reaching the other side within the time limit of one incense stick constitutes a pass. If you fall into the water, you’re eliminated.”

“Note that the Dragon Gate River isn’t as calm as it appears. And interference between examinees is permitted during the exam.”

29 Yan Zhen’s Realization

Leaving Yu Heaven Pavilion, Yan Zhen felt frustrated.

He hadn’t been able to protect Zi Xunyi or Instructor Yu Xuan, and his cousins and the two senior sisters could only be put aside for now…

—Tsk! This is so annoying!

Yan Zhen ran his hand through his hair in frustration.

“Yan Zhen.” Huangfu Wenqing caught up to him. “Are you alright?”

Yan Zhen sighed deeply. “No, I’m not. I’m very angry. I want to punch something.”

Huangfu Wenqing took his arm, trying to soothe him. “Don’t be angry. The Dean is only so hostile towards you because she cares about Instructor Yu Xuan.”

Yan Zhen shook his head. “I’m not angry at her. I’m angry at myself. I want to protect everyone, but I can’t do it properly. How am I supposed to protect you all like this?”

“Yan Zhen, do you think that everyone, including me, is a fragile vase that needs your protection to survive?”

“That’s not what I meant.”

“Silly, have you ever considered that Instructor Yu Xuan also wants to protect you?”

“This…”

“Despite your argument, the Dean didn’t reject your application and didn’t make things difficult for you. That must be the result of Instructor Yu Xuan’s efforts. She’s enduring pressure from her family, waiting for you to rescue her. So, what are you going to do?”

“I—”

Yan Zhen suddenly understood.

Yes, Instructor Yu Xuan was fighting her own battles, so he had to fight his own as well.

If he were to marry into the Yu family, proving his talent and strength would be enough. But he wanted to marry Instructor Yu Xuan. That wasn’t enough.

He needed the power and influence to change the Yu family’s rules!

In short, he had to bring the entire Yu family under his control.

“I understand. I need to become stronger, not wallow in self-pity. Thank you, Wenqing.”

“You’re welcome. I’m glad I could help.”

Huangfu Wenqing smiled sweetly, unaware that her words had sparked a bold idea in Yan Zhen’s mind. She simply wanted to cheer him up.

As they returned to the dormitory, someone called out to them.

It was Ye Si, the plump disciple of the Mystic Academy Dean.

She waddled over to them, panting, and said, “Something terrible has happened, Junior Brother Yan Zhen! Our East District students are fighting with the West District students in the training grounds.”

Yan Zhen’s eyes narrowed. Did it happen early? In the script, the conflict between the East and West Districts was supposed to happen later.

“What happened?”

“Training Ground C was being used by our East District students, but the West District students suddenly came and tried to take it over, saying things like, ‘East District freshmen, don’t bother cultivating. Just go back to flirting with your representative.’ Xiao Mie and Yu Yue got angry and started fighting, but there are two Mystic Masters in the West District, and we only have that Third Prince from the Black Horn Empire. We’re outnumbered and outmatched.”

Yan Zhen sneered. “I’ll go take a look. I just happen to be in the mood for a fight.”

“I’ll go too,” Huangfu Wenqing smiled. “I want to see you in action.”

The three of them rushed towards Training Ground C.

[Ding! Key plot triggered]

As the system notification sounded in his mind, they arrived at the scene.

Most of the East District students were on the ground, only a few still fighting.

The Third Prince, surrounded by two one-star Mystic Masters, was being pushed back, forced into a defensive position. Xiao Mie, Yu Yue, and the others were also outnumbered, completely outmatched and battered.

“Is this all the East District has? No one else? Huh?”

“Not quite. The East District’s men might be weak, but their girls are quite something.”

“Indeed, especially those four who always stick together. Each one is more alluring than the last.”

“You East District softies don’t deserve such beauties. They should belong to us in the West District, haha—pfft!”

The speaker suddenly stopped, blood spraying from his mouth as he flew backward, landing on the ground unconscious. A charred fist mark was imprinted on his abdomen, a few wisps of flame still flickering.

The West District students were startled. Then, a flash of starlight, and another person went flying, crashing onto the dueling platform, coughing up blood.

The remaining students scattered, looking around fearfully. “Who? Who is it?! Show your—mmmph!”

Starlight illuminated the speaker’s shadow as a foot slammed down on his head, the heat igniting his hair. The immense pressure caused a concussion and forced him to his knees.

Everyone present, both from the East and West Districts, saw the newcomer clearly.

A young man wreathed in flames, his eyes glowing with sinister, vertical pupils, radiating intense heat and pressure.

“Yan Zhen!”

Xiao Mie, Yu Yue, and the other East District students’ faces lit up, relieved.

The West District students also recognized Yan Zhen, feeling a sense of dread as they sensed his aura.

He seemed… much stronger than they had anticipated.

“Is this all the East District’s new student representative can do? Sneak attacks?”

“I attacked from the front. You’re just too blind to see.” Yan Zhen looked around impassively at the fallen East District students and the struggling Third Prince, then said coldly, “Healthy competition promotes mutual growth, but ganging up like thugs… Pathetic.”

Whoosh.

Yan Zhen vanished, turning into a streak of starlight that shot into the crowd.

Eight Extremities Burst!

He didn’t even need to use the Ninth Burst. The first eight bursts were enough to send them flying with each punch.

The internal force he unleashed exploded within their bodies, their internal organs rattled, and they collapsed, coughing up blood and losing consciousness.

In less than five minutes, the West District students were all down, the rest retreating fearfully, their faces pale and legs trembling.

Yan Zhen didn’t pursue them, his gaze shifting towards the Third Prince.

Bang!

The Third Prince was sent flying by a joint attack from the two Mystic Masters, landing at Yan Zhen’s feet, coughing violently. If not for his protective armor, he wouldn’t be able to get up.

“Are you alright?”

“I’m fine.”

The Third Prince, embarrassed by Yan Zhen’s concern, turned his face away, using one hand to support himself and the other to wipe the blood from his mouth, glaring at the two West District Mystic Masters.

He still had a trump card, but he didn’t want to waste it on such a meaningless fight. However, not using it meant being beaten up by these two, which was incredibly frustrating.

In a one-on-one fight, he wasn’t afraid of anyone in the same realm, except for that freak Yan Zhen!

—Damn those West District bastards!

“Leave them to me.”

Yan Zhen walked towards the two West District freshmen, a one-star and a two-star Mystic Master.

The two Mystic Masters had witnessed how easily Yan Zhen dealt with the Mystic Scholars and were wary.

However, two against one, they still had a chance.

This thought vanished the moment they clashed with him, replaced by regret and fear.

Unfortunately, it was too late to beg for mercy. Yan Zhen showed no mercy, breaking three ribs of each before tossing them aside.

Just a while ago, the West District students had been dominating. Now, Yan Zhen alone had completely turned the tables.

“Ahhhh—”

Seeing Yan Zhen’s demonic figure, the remaining West District students couldn’t bear the terror any longer and fled the training grounds, screaming as if they had seen a ghost.

28 Another Argument with Younger Aunt Dean

After their discussion, Yan Zhen and Beautiful Master withdrew from the dreamscape, their consciousness returning to reality.

On the bed, they opened their eyes simultaneously, gazing at each other for a moment, then smiled and sat up.

As Chen Xi helped Yan Zhen adjust his clothes, she said, “Since you have a plan, Zhen’er, then put it into action quickly. Ling’er and Zi Ji can’t wait.”

Yan Zhen nodded seriously. “I’ll go find Younger Aunt Dean and ask her to approve the special examination quickly.”

“Younger Aunt Dean?”

“Uh, the Outer Academy Dean is Instructor Yu Xuan’s younger aunt, so I call her that too.”

“Has the Yu family agreed to your relationship with Instructor Yu Xuan?”

“No, Instructor Yu Xuan was taken back… I have to become stronger quickly and bring her back.”

“The Yu family of the Sacred Ground Academy… if I remember correctly, they’re related to Supreme Elder Yu.” Chen Xi smiled faintly. “I happen to know their ancestor. Do you need me to intervene?”

Yan Zhen naturally knew this, but he shook his head. “I can handle it myself. It’s not appropriate for Master to reveal yourself yet.”

“Then be careful, Zhen’er. Discuss things with Master if you encounter any problems.”

“I understand, Master.”

After receiving a kiss on the forehead from Beautiful Master, Yan Zhen, slightly embarrassed, left the Fire Refining Starry Sky.

It was already morning outside. Yan Zhen quickly washed up and left his room.

Huangfu Wenqing, as if she had timed it perfectly, also emerged from her room next door.

Seeing Yan Zhen, she smiled. “Good morning, Yan Zhen.”

“Morning.” Yan Zhen asked curiously, “Are you going to class, Wenqing?”

Huangfu Wenqing shook her head. “The Dean summoned me. Something about the special examination.”

“What?!”

Yan Zhen’s face fell.

She hadn’t even summoned him for such a matter…

—That Younger Aunt Dean, so big-breasted, yet so petty!

“I was also planning to ask the Dean about the special examination approval. Let’s go together.”

“Okay~”

They walked together, leaving the dormitory and heading towards Yu Heaven Pavilion, where the Dean resided.

As always, a misty rain enveloped Yu Heaven Pavilion, the air humid even in the dry winter.

As they arrived, they saw the new student representatives from the other three districts also approaching, clearly having received the same summons.

Shan Ben from the West District, seeing Yan Zhen and Huangfu Wenqing, frowned and called out, “Why are there two people from the East District?”

Qi Yuxuan from the North District said indifferently, “Ask the Dean.”

He walked through the rain and entered the pavilion first.

Chu Nan from the South District glanced at Yan Zhen and Huangfu Wenqing, said nothing, and followed.

Shan Ben gave them a thumbs down and entered the pavilion as well.

Huangfu Wenqing frowned. “Why is he so annoying?”

Yan Zhen shrugged. “Some idiots don’t understand respect unless you beat it into them.”

They were the last to enter, climbing the stairs to the Dean’s office on the top floor.

The office door was open, and Dean Yu Qing’s voice came from inside: “Come in.”

The five of them entered and stood respectfully, not daring to make any noise.

Except for Yan Zhen and Huangfu Wenqing.

Huangfu Wenqing, having been a Mystic Venerable and the Holy Maiden of the Evergreen Sacred Ground in her previous life, naturally didn’t see a mere Mystic Ancestor as someone to be intimidated by.

As for Yan Zhen, he wasn’t afraid of the impulsive and big-breasted Younger Aunt Dean. He found the cold and stern Head Instructor Shui Bailan much more intimidating.

The two Yu family members glanced at Yan Zhen discreetly, then looked away, but their eyes still held a hint of coldness.

“I’ve called you here today to inform you that your applications for the special examination have been approved and to explain the examination’s content.”

“This year’s content is very simple: crossing the river. As long as you can safely cross the Dragon Gate River without falling into the water, you pass. If you fall in, you’re eliminated.”

“Those who pass will become Inner Academy students and receive rewards based on their ranking. Those who fail will return to the Outer Academy and wait for the year-end ‘Dragon Gate Selection’ for another chance—because each student only has one opportunity to apply for the special examination.”

Dean Yu Qing paused, then added, “The special examination will begin at nine o’clock in the morning the day after tomorrow. Don’t be late, or you’ll be automatically disqualified. The proctor will explain the specific rules then. I’ll just remind you that besides you talented freshmen, there will also be many eligible senior students. They might be slightly lower in cultivation, but having cultivated in the Outer Academy for a year, they’re not to be underestimated.”

The word “underestimated” made the five of them wary.

This meant that during the river crossing, the other examinees were their enemies. They could directly or indirectly interfere with each other.

Thinking of this, Shan Ben looked at Yan Zhen, a sneer appearing on his lips.

Yan Zhen was speechless. He had no grudge against Shan Ben, having only retorted to his provocation earlier.

However, Shan Ben looked down on Yan Zhen, a mere three-star Mystic Master, and had decided to target him for his own amusement. This was a typical mentality of a stronger person facing a weaker one, bullying and humiliating them for their own entertainment.

Dealing with this type of person was simple: beat them until they were afraid. Otherwise, they would cling to you like a leech, constantly annoying you until they got bored.

“That’s all. You can go and prepare now.”

Dean Yu Qing dismissed them. Qi Yuxuan, Chu Nan, and Shan Ben respectfully excused themselves, but Yan Zhen didn’t move. Seeing this, Huangfu Wenqing also stayed.

Dean Yu Qing said coldly, “Is there anything else?”

Yan Zhen asked calmly, “How is Instructor Yu Xuan doing?”

“None of your business!” Dean Yu Qing snapped. “Stop thinking about our Xuan’er!”

Yan Zhen turned to Shui Bailan.

Shui Bailan hesitated, then said, “Xuan’er has returned to the Yu family and is in secluded cultivation. She won’t be appearing until she reaches the Mystic General realm.”

“Is that her punishment?” Yan Zhen frowned. “Nothing else?”

Shui Bailan looked away. “She also received… family discipline and is currently recovering.”

Yan Zhen’s expression instantly darkened, his eyes turning into sinister vertical slits, flames surging around him, a heavy pressure filling the office, unlike that of a mere Mystic Master.

“Yan Zhen…” Huangfu Wenqing was startled. “Calm down.”

Dean Yu Qing, like a startled cat, yelled, “Whose fault do you think this is? And you dare to throw a tantrum here?! Do you want to fight me? Don’t think I can’t deal with you!”

Yan Zhen snorted, withdrew his Mystic Power, and said indifferently, “Before graduation, I’ll use any means necessary to bring her back.”

He turned and left.

Huangfu Wenqing quickly followed.

Dean Yu Qing put her hands on her hips, her ample bosom heaving, clearly enraged.

Shui Bailan’s eyes flickered, lost in thought.

27 Chen Xi: When Did You Start Liking Zhen’er?

Within the dreamscape, Yan Zhen and Beautiful Master sat side by side on the swing, enjoying each other’s company while waiting for news from Zi Xunyi.

After a full half hour, Zi Xunyi reappeared, a look of disappointment on her beautiful face.

Without her saying a word, they knew she had failed.

“I’m sorry. I’ve failed you and Master Chen Xi, husband.”

Yan Zhen felt a pang of sympathy and embraced her. “It’s okay. If it didn’t work this time, we’ll just try again… It must be because my Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire isn’t strong enough to overcome the Jade Firmament Violet Fire. After all, there’s still a difference in their rankings.”

Zi Xunyi immediately shook her head. “It’s not your fault, husband. It’s me who is useless.”

Chen Xi looked at her disciple’s wife and said, “Your soul has weakened considerably. Even with the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire’s assistance, directly confronting the Jade Firmament Violet Fire with your spiritual body is too risky. You can only try this at most two more times before your soul might dissipate.”

Zi Xunyi lowered her head and pleaded, “Please give me another chance, Master Chen Xi.”

Chen Xi looked at Yan Zhen, who frowned.

“It’s indeed too risky. Let’s not try again. Leave it to me.” Yan Zhen scratched his cheek. “After I enter the Inner Academy, I’ll contact the current you, build a good relationship, and then explain about your and Ling’er’s rebirth.”

“But husband—”

“Ling’er still has time. I don’t want anything to happen to you too.”

Zi Xunyi’s expression softened, and she nodded obediently. “I’ll listen to my husband.”

“What Zhen’er said is indeed a viable option.” Chen Xi pondered. “Zi Ji, tell me, when did you start liking Zhen’er?”

Eh? Zi Xunyi was taken aback, blinking her eyes rapidly, then a blush spread across her beautiful face.

Seeing Yan Zhen staring at her, Zi Xunyi became even more shy. “Why are you asking this so suddenly, Master Chen Xi?”

“Naturally, it’s to understand your… girlish heart,” Chen Xi smiled. “So that Zhen’er can quickly become closer to you and perhaps develop a deeper relationship.”

Zi Xunyi blushed even more, but she still recounted her feelings carefully. “In my previous life, when I was cultivating the Spiritual Union chapter, my soul resonated with my husband’s, and I entered his dream, where we met.”

Initially, Zi Xunyi was simply curious about the person whose soul resonated with hers. So, she started talking to Yan Zhen and unexpectedly discovered that beneath his handsome exterior was an interesting soul.

His thoughts were unconventional, his way of speaking unique, and he knew many strange and wonderful things, even able to manifest them with his Spiritual Power, broadening Zi Xunyi’s horizons.

“The universe is infinite. The stars we see are actually very, very far away, so far that the light they emit takes many years to reach our eyes. This is because light travels at a fixed speed and is also bent by gravitational fields.”

“Using only the digits 1 and 0, we can create countless possibilities, even artificial intelligence, which we call ‘computers.’ The portable ones are called ‘mobile phones’.”

“Me? Ahem, I’m a self-taught cultivator with a year and a half of experience. My name is Yan Zhen, and I like singing, dancing, rapping, basketball… After I style my hair and put on some overalls, I’ll perform an original dance for you called ‘You’re Too Beautiful.’… Um, Zi Ji, don’t misunderstand. It’s just a compliment on your beauty.”

Besides that, his understanding of cultivation also exceeded Zi Xunyi’s expectations.

“A single grain of dust can fill the ocean, a single blade of grass can cut through the sun, moon, and stars, and a tiny firefly can outshine the moon in someone’s eyes. In this world of fantasy, nothing is impossible.”

“There are countless cultivation methods, but unfortunately, there’s no flashy magic here, only Mystic Qi cultivated to its peak. As far as I know, besides this world, there are other worlds where people cultivate martial arts, not Mystic Arts. The path of martial arts involves stealing Yin and Yang, seizing destiny, undergoing nirvana, controlling life and death, and mastering reincarnation… At its peak, martial arts can shatter the heavens and shake the universe!”

And occasionally, he would boast.

“Every talent has its use—without me, eternity would be an endless night.”

Yan Zhen was like a treasure trove, full of unexpected surprises, making Zi Xunyi increasingly curious about him.

Their nightly conversations in the dreamscape became the highlight of Zi Xunyi’s day.

In the monotonous Inner Academy, the lonely young woman and the equally “lonely” young man shared their innermost thoughts, treating each other as kindred spirits.

One day, they met in the Inner Academy. The kindred spirit she had been talking to in her dreams appeared before her, so unreal, yet so delightful.

The real Yan Zhen was even more shy and easily embarrassed, often scratching his cheek with his finger, which she found incredibly cute.

After Yan Zhen defended her against a suitor from the Rising Star List, Zi Xunyi’s gaze lingered on him even more frequently.

Not just meeting in dreams at night, but also secretly watching him during the day, observing him training beneath the waterfall and dominating his opponents on the dueling platform.

The image of “Yan Zhen” gradually filled Zi Xunyi’s heart. Besides cultivation, she would constantly think about him, wondering what he was doing, whether he would meet her in the dreamscape that night, and what they would talk about.

Days turned into weeks, until Zi Xunyi received a summons from her family. She had to leave the Sacred Ground Academy and return to the Eighth Continent.

It was supposed to be a joyous occasion, but Zi Xunyi felt no happiness. She felt a strong reluctance to leave, wanting to stay and continue watching her “kindred spirit,” talking to him, and creating more memories.

Zi Xunyi finally realized, or rather, finally had to admit, that she had fallen in love with Yan Zhen.

“…”

After confessing her feelings, Zi Xunyi covered her face with her hands, too shy to look at Yan Zhen and Master Chen Xi.

Hearing Zi Xunyi’s confession, Yan Zhen also felt a bit embarrassed. The script didn’t mention any of this. He had thought that Zi Xunyi only gradually accepted him as her “husband” after their arranged marriage.

Chen Xi, however, wasn’t surprised. She pondered and said, “So, Zi Ji, your feelings for Zhen’er developed gradually, not sparked by a specific event.”

Zi Xunyi blinked and whispered, “There was… a catalyst of sorts.”

“Oh?”

“Once, I entered the dreamscape while bathing, and then…”

Zi Xunyi didn’t continue, but Chen Xi understood.

Entering the dreamscape without clothes meant her spiritual avatar would also be naked, needing to create clothes for herself. If she wasn’t careful, she would be… seen.

So, it was because he accidentally saw her naked that their friendship turned into love.

However, this wasn’t something Yan Zhen could replicate. He couldn’t exactly peek at Zi Xunyi while she was bathing; she would kill him.

As Chen Xi pondered, Yan Zhen spoke up. “Master, I have a bold idea!”

26 Young Zi Xunyi vs. Mature Zi Xunyi

As a soul cultivator, one could roam their own dreamscape and enhance their Spiritual Power, making dreaming a beneficial activity.

However, for over a year, her dreams had been repetitive, mostly featuring her “future self,” and occasionally her “ailing daughter.”

Zi Xunyi dismissed them as mere manifestations of her inner demons, not paying much attention.

After all, a Hidden Realm soul cultivator had to overcome the trials of inner demons to break through the illusion, solidify their ethereal form, and advance to the True Realm.

However, a few days ago, her dreams suddenly turned into strange erotic dreams, featuring that newly enrolled scumbag junior as the male lead. This was very unsettling!

Zi Xunyi initially thought it was because, while cultivating the Spiritual Union chapter, her soul, wandering between reality and the void, had resonated with Yan Zhen’s soul, drawing her to him. Furthermore, he possessed the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire, and its negative energy had influenced her dream, resulting in such shameful content.

However, she hadn’t cultivated the Spiritual Union chapter today, so why did her soul enter that purple flower field dreamscape again, engaging in such wanton acts with Yan Zhen in front of “Master”?

Things were becoming increasingly confusing.

“No matter what, it must be related to that Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire.”

Zi Xunyi bit her lip, feeling the familiar sticky sensation between her thighs, and quickly stood up, heading towards the bathroom.

Behind the screen, Zi Xunyi gracefully undressed, revealing her perfect body.

The room was filled with breathtaking beauty.

Her beauty was unparalleled, her aura regal and elegant, her figure curvaceous and alluring, her skin smooth and flawless like jade, and even her lavender hair was soft and shiny, emitting a fragrance like lavender. Every inch of her was captivating.

Zi Xunyi stepped into the hot bath and sat down, a soft, alluring sigh escaping her lips, strangely similar to the moans she made in her dream when Yan Zhen thrust into her.

She immediately realized this and covered her mouth, her cheeks flushing slightly.

“How… how could I…? No, I have to figure out what’s going on. Otherwise—”

If this continued, she would become… strange.

Thinking of this, Zi Xunyi sat cross-legged in the bathtub and began to meditate.

She couldn’t remain passive. She had to take the initiative, enter the purple flower field dreamscape, and confront that Yan Zhen!

Her previous dreams had been hazy and unclear, like ordinary dreams, not at all befitting a soul cultivator like her.

It must be the influence of the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire.

In that case, she would use the Jade Firmament Violet Fire to counter it, maintaining her clarity of mind and resisting its influence!

Just as Zi Xunyi’s consciousness was about to enter the dreamscape, she heard the voice of her inner demon: “My current self, stop resisting me. I’ve returned to the present from the future with all my memories. There must be a reason. Let me merge with you, and you’ll understand everything.”

Zi Xunyi remained unmoved.

For a Hidden Realm soul cultivator, inner demons were rampant. Succumbing to them would lead to Qi deviation, causing damage to the soul, clouding the mind, and hindering further cultivation. In severe cases, the inner demons could take over, leading to a complete loss of self and a descent into darkness.

She summoned the Jade Firmament Violet Fire, forming a barrier around her sea of consciousness, blocking out the inner demon’s voice.

“Still not working? Sigh, I’m currently at the peak of inner demon manifestation. Maintaining my clarity of mind and resisting external influences is the right approach. But rebirth has indeed happened. Even if I have to force it, I’ll merge with my current self and save Ling’er.”

Roar!

From the void beyond her sea of consciousness, a ferocious dragon covered in gray scales and with four claws emerged, roaring, its image appearing in Zi Xunyi’s mind.

Then, she saw a woman in a purple dress, identical to herself but with a more mature aura, standing on the dragon’s head.

Their eyes met, and for a moment, their minds connected.

—That’s me.

“No, that’s the inner demon. I am me!”

The younger Zi Xunyi remained firm, quickly forming hand seals and transforming the ethereal violet fire barrier into a solid violet crystal barrier, resisting the inner demon’s intrusion with all her might.

If she could stop this inner demon, perhaps she could understand the meaning of those shameful dreams.

The mature Zi Xunyi, standing on the dragon’s head, frowned, also forming hand seals, and charged towards her own sea of consciousness, riding the evil dragon.

As long as she broke through the Jade Firmament Violet Fire’s protection, she could merge with her current self and truly be reborn.

They clashed, the two Extreme Flames colliding, the evil dragon and the violet cloud locked in battle.

Half an hour later.

Zi Xunyi’s sea of consciousness calmed down, the violet crystal barrier weakening, then shattering.

“It’s indeed the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire. With its power, that inner demon became so strong, I almost couldn’t withstand it!” Zi Xunyi said, still shaken. “Fortunately, my Jade Firmament Violet Fire is stronger. I’ve finally driven that inner demon away completely. Now I can—mm!”

A sharp pain shot through her, and waves surged within her sea of consciousness. Images flashed through her mind, memories surfacing.

A grand wedding, attended by all the prominent figures of the continent. However, there was only one groom, but two brides. Besides herself, there was another beautiful woman with a cold and proud demeanor, whom she seemed to call “Sister Cai Lian.”

After the wedding ceremony, they were escorted to the bridal chamber.

The groom, Yan Zhen, was more mature and taller than the one she had seen at the entrance ceremony. He solemnly lifted their red veils and removed their wedding attire, revealing their breathtakingly beautiful bodies.

Looking at his stunning wives, Yan Zhen gently embraced them both.

The two women blushed, knelt before him, and stuck out their tongues, trying their best to please him.

Yan Zhen sat on the bed, gazing at his two wives tenderly, gently stroking their hair, one black, one lavender, both as smooth as silk.

Feeling their husband’s affection, the two women became even more devoted, then returned to the bed, lying on top of each other, Cai Lian below, Zi Xunyi above, looking at Yan Zhen with shyness and anticipation.

The first night of marriage was worth a thousand gold.

And so, their “first night” lasted the entire night…

In the bathroom, Zi Xunyi, still in the bathtub, abruptly opened her eyes, gasping for air as if waking from a nightmare.

She clutched her head, unable to comprehend the shameful memories that had appeared in her mind, all related to that Yan Zhen.

“What’s going on? I’ve already driven away the inner demon and the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire. Why—”

Her mature self.

The mature Yan Zhen.

The future.

Their wedding.

Zi Xunyi suddenly had a realization.

“Could it be that wasn’t an inner demon, but my true future self? In the future, I’ll marry that Yan Zhen, and even… share him with another woman?”

—That’s… that’s impossible!!!

Zi Xunyi felt like she was falling apart.

25 Passing the Flame to His Future Wife

Chen Xi’s words made Zi Xunyi blush, her heart pounding with shyness.

This wasn’t the first time they had “passed the flame.”

In her previous life, Zi Xunyi had transferred the Jade Firmament Violet Fire to Yan Zhen through the Spiritual Union chapter, helping him advance to the next level.

However, in her previous life, it was just the two of them. Now, Chen Xi was right there, and she didn’t seem to have any intention of leaving.

Despite her shyness, Zi Xunyi knew that Chen Xi wasn’t insensitive. She wasn’t leaving because she wanted to protect them.

After all, “passing the flame” was a risky endeavor, and the consequences of failure could be severe.

Yan Zhen was also embarrassed.

Although Beautiful Master had said she didn’t mind such things, he couldn’t bring himself to be intimate with another woman in front of her without feeling any guilt.

After all, he loved Beautiful Master, the kind of love that made him want to marry her.

Yan Zhen blushed and said hesitantly, “Master, um, could we… have some curtains?”

Seeing her disciple acting like a shy maiden, Chen Xi chuckled. “Master needs to protect you, so I have to watch…”

Yan Zhen said dejectedly, “Oh, I see.”

Chen Xi patted his head. “You child, always so shy at crucial moments. Learn from Zi Ji. Focus on the bigger picture.”

Yan Zhen looked at Zi Xunyi, who blushed and lowered her head, then peeked at him shyly, making his heart race.

The Zi Xunyi before him was reborn, a young noblewoman in her thirties from the future. She usually carried herself with grace and dignity, yet now she was acting like a shy maiden. It was incredibly endearing!

Yan Zhen – Ego: Cute!

Yan Zhen – Lower Half: I want her!

Conclusion: Wife is amazing! (Shouts)

Yan Zhen swallowed hard.

Seeing him staring at her with such intensity, Zi Xunyi giggled, covering her mouth with her hand, and said softly, “Husband, come to the bed. Let me serve you.”

Yan Zhen scratched his cheek and climbed onto the bed first.

Zi Xunyi followed.

They gazed at each other, their eyes filled with affection.

“Husband~”

Zi Xunyi straddled Yan Zhen’s lap, puckered her lips, and kissed him, her arms wrapping around his neck.

Yan Zhen held her waist, responding to her passion.

Their clothes vanished, and their bodies connected, forming a closed loop, intimate and inseparable.

As they circulated the Spiritual Union chapter, their Spiritual Power flowed between them.

Chen Xi watched them impassively, then said, “It’s time, Zhen’er, Zi Ji!”

Whoosh.

Grayish-black flames ignited on Yan Zhen’s body, surging upwards and transforming into a ferocious dragon that soared into the clear blue sky, circling above.

Yan Zhen increased his pace, causing Zi Xunyi to moan and move her hips, climbing to the peak of pleasure with him.

At that moment, their Spiritual Power merged into one, and the fiery dragon above descended, plunging into Zi Xunyi’s body.

“Mmm~”

The forced entry of the Extreme Flame made Zi Xunyi arch her back like a struck swan, her head tilted back, a muffled moan escaping her lips.

The grayish-black flames enveloped her entire body, threatening to take over her spiritual form.

Chen Xi, standing beside the bed, snorted coldly and used the power of the Fire Refining Starry Sky to suppress the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire’s ferocity.

With Chen Xi’s help, the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire retreated to Zi Xunyi’s forehead, transforming into a small dragon mark, like a third eye, emitting a faint, sinister aura that added a touch of allure to her appearance.

Calming her mind, Zi Xunyi saw a small gray dragon swimming in her sea of consciousness. It looked rather cute, but she knew that once released, it would transform into a ferocious fiery dragon.

Zi Xunyi opened her eyes, a sinister glint flashing within. She hugged Yan Zhen’s head against her chest and said happily, “Husband, it worked.”

Yan Zhen released her nipple from his mouth and smiled faintly. “That’s good. This should allow you to merge with your current self.”

“Yes, I thank you for your grace, husband.”

“Don’t say such strange things.”

Zi Xunyi tilted her head. “Then what should I say?”

Yan Zhen said seriously, “You don’t have to say anything. Just a ‘mwah’ would be more… practical.”

“Mwah?” Zi Xunyi blinked in confusion. “Like this?”

She leaned down and kissed Yan Zhen lightly on the lips, then her slender waist started moving again.

Yan Zhen’s heart raced. He responded to the kiss, his hands lifting and lowering Zi Xunyi’s hips, clearly wanting to continue.

However, a cough from beside the bed broke the intimate atmosphere.

“It’s good that you two are so affectionate, but now’s not the time for this.”

They came back to their senses, turned to Chen Xi, and looked embarrassed.

“Sorry, Master.”

“I-it’s my fault.”

Yan Zhen wanted to disappear, and Zi Xunyi blushed deeply.

They quickly separated, their clothes reappearing, and stood before Chen Xi, obedient like children who had done something wrong.

Chen Xi waved her sleeve, dispelling the bed and erasing the traces left on it.

“Now, let’s see if we can break through the Jade Firmament Violet Fire’s protection and allow Zi Ji’s consciousness to return to her current body—give me your hand.”

Zi Xunyi obediently extended her hand.

Chen Xi used her finger to write the character “Xi” on Zi Xunyi’s palm.

“If the Jade Firmament Violet Fire retaliates, use this character to block it. This is all Master—and Zhen’er—can do. The rest is up to you.”

Hearing Chen Xi refer to herself as “Master,” Zi Xunyi knew she had gained her approval, and her heart leaped with joy.

“I understand. Thank you, Master Chen Xi.”

“Go.”

“Good luck,” Yan Zhen encouraged. “Don’t lose to your current self.”

“I’ll be back, husband.”

Zi Xunyi’s form slowly disappeared.

Yan Zhen asked worriedly, “Will she succeed, Master?”

Chen Xi shook her head. “It’s a fifty-fifty chance. It depends on her luck.”

“Then what should we do?”

“We can’t do anything. We just have to wait for her to contact us.”

Almost simultaneously, in the Inner Academy, within the cliffside building, Zi Xunyi fell asleep during her cultivation and had another erotic dream, even more intense than the last!

Last time, it was just her and that Yan Zhen student making love on a swing. This time, there was another person, a cold and beautiful woman whose appearance and aura were no less than hers, whom she and Yan Zhen called “Master.” And they were doing… those shameful things right in front of “Master”!

“H-how could I be such a wanton woman?!”

Zi Xunyi covered her burning cheeks, feeling both embarrassed and annoyed.

24 Entering the Dream with Beautiful Master

Fire Refining Starry Sky, atop the altar.

After listening to her disciple’s account, Chen Xi’s expression turned serious.

As she expected, Zi Xunyi was also reborn, and like the Serpent Queen, her daughter was reborn with her.

However, the complications were significant, especially Yan Lingji’s impending disappearance, which weighed heavily on Chen Xi’s heart.

“The Jade Firmament Violet Fire, although only ranked ninth, has extremely strong protective properties, practically an absolute defense for the soul. The only way to break through it is with the diametrically opposed Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire.”

“But isn’t the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire only ranked thirteenth?”

“That’s because the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire is inherently volatile and difficult to control, so its ranking is slightly lower. However, its power is indeed comparable to the top ten Extreme Flames.”

“I see. So, what should we do?”

“Borrow the fire.”

“Borrow the fire?”

“Using the method from the Spiritual Union chapter, we can lend the power of the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire to her, allowing her to break through the Jade Firmament Violet Fire’s restriction. This should allow her reborn consciousness to gradually merge with her current self.”

Yan Zhen frowned. “Can… can we even lend it? The Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire is difficult to control. Wouldn’t it be dangerous—”

If the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire took over Zi Xunyi’s consciousness, it would be disastrous.

“Don’t worry. Zi Fei’s soul fluctuations resonate strongly with yours, Zhen’er. After your souls intertwine, she’ll carry your aura, which will be enough for her to control a sliver of the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire’s power.”

“Oh~~~”

Wait, Zi Fei? Yan Zhen was surprised. Why did Beautiful Master call Zi Xunyi that?

“You’ve already dual cultivated with her, haven’t you, Zhen’er?” Chen Xi teased. “Spiritual dual cultivation.”

Yan Zhen blushed deeply and explained nervously, “I… she said it could help slow down Ling’er’s fading consciousness, so I—”

Chen Xi smiled without saying anything.

Yan Zhen felt even more embarrassed, realizing he was also attracted to Zi Xunyi. He was such a…

No, he couldn’t call himself that. After all, she was so beautiful and elegant, and she was his future wife. Thinking of this, even if he could resist, his lower half couldn’t. Or rather, his lower half never intended to resist!

Yes, it was his lower half that was the problem, not him.

—You’re so shameless!

Yan Zhen mentally scolded his lower half.

“It’s alright, Zhen’er. Master doesn’t mind these things.”

Chen Xi gazed at her precious disciple with affection, her white hand reaching out from her wide sleeve to caress his face. “As long as you like them, Zhen’er, you can marry as many as you want.”

“Master!”

Yan Zhen felt guilty and embraced Beautiful Master, burying his face in her soft bosom.

Chen Xi’s heart warmed. She held him close, gently stroking his head. “No matter what, Master loves you, Zhen’er~”

Yan Zhen mumbled in response, “I… love Master too~”

After a tender moment, Chen Xi raised her hand and created a large bed on the altar’s surface.

They embraced each other, lay down on the bed fully clothed, face to face, their foreheads touching, and, as they had discussed, entered the dream together to talk to the reborn Zi Xunyi.

They appeared in the purple flower field dreamscape and walked towards the large tree at the center. Soon, Zi Xunyi sensed Yan Zhen’s soul fluctuations and appeared.

Seeing Chen Xi, Zi Xunyi was stunned, then became excited. “Master Chen Xi…”

Looking at her disciple’s wife, whom she hadn’t seen in over a year, Chen Xi also felt a surge of affection. She smiled and said, “So you’re the second wife? You’re indeed beautiful and elegant.”

Zi Xunyi smiled faintly. “You flatter me, Master Chen Xi.”

“The Zi surname… if I recall correctly, it’s a prominent surname within the Celestial God Clan of the Eighth Continent.” Chen Xi observed her. “You’ve reached the Mystic King realm at such a young age. Are you from the Celestial God Clan?”

“Your eyesight is as sharp as ever, Master Chen Xi.”

Zi Xunyi felt a sense of closeness.

In her previous life, after losing his grandfather and then his father, Yan Zhen’s only remaining close elder was his master, whom he deeply respected and loved. He would discuss everything with her, even going to great lengths to help her reach the Celestial Sovereign realm.

Therefore, both Zi Xunyi and Cai Lian also respected Chen Xi, practically treating her as their mother-in-law. When Yan Zhen wasn’t around, they relied on her for guidance and support.

Now, with Yan Zhen still young and her in this state, Chen Xi was her only support.

“I am Zi Xunyi, currently a candidate for the Celestial God Clan Goddess. Due to some internal conflicts, I’m temporarily hiding in the Sacred Ground Academy. After I return, I’ll officially become the Goddess and, in a few years, marry my husband, the future Jiā Lán Holy Son. You can call me ‘Zi Ji’ or ‘Zi Fei,’ Master Chen Xi.”

Chen Xi acknowledged her with a hum. “Zhen’er has already explained the situation. Let me see Lingji first.”

Zi Xunyi nodded, formed a hand seal, tore open a rift in the dreamscape, and brought Yan Lingji out from its depths.

She was sleeping peacefully, her body translucent, as if she might disappear at any moment, enveloped in a thin cocoon of soul energy. This was the protective power formed by the intertwining of Yan Zhen and Zi Xunyi’s souls, slowing down the dissipation of her consciousness.

Seeing the quiet and lovely little girl in such a state, Chen Xi felt a pang of sympathy. “There are no injuries or illnesses. It seems her consciousness is fading because she has been adrift in the dreamscape for too long, without a physical anchor.”

Although not hopeful, Zi Xunyi still asked, “Is there any way to heal her, Master Chen Xi?”

Chen Xi shook her head. “If it were any other soul, we could find a suitable body for it to reside in temporarily. But Lingji doesn’t exist in this era. It’s highly unlikely we’ll find a matching body.”

Zi Xunyi sighed softly.

Chen Xi continued, “The only solution is for Zhen’er to get the current you pregnant as soon as possible. However, the current you doesn’t even know Zhen’er, let alone being intimate with him. That’s the main obstacle.”

Zi Xunyi nodded seriously.

Chen Xi added, “The reason you can’t fully merge with your current self is because of the Jade Firmament Violet Fire’s protection. As long as we can break through that protection, your consciousness can gradually integrate. But your power alone isn’t enough. You need to work together with your husband.”

The intelligent Zi Xunyi instantly understood. “Are you referring to my husband’s Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire, Master Chen Xi?”

Chen Xi nodded slightly. Her vast Spiritual Power surged behind her, creating a large bed, identical to the one on the altar.

“Since you understand, then take off your clothes, get on the bed, and dual cultivate. Let Zhen’er lend you the power of the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire. Afterward, I’ll help you merge with your current self.”

23 Tenderness

He dreamt again.

The dream of the purple flower field.

The beautiful woman in purple stood beneath the tree, beckoning him.

“Husband~~~”

Yan Zhen hurried over. As he approached, Zi Xunyi gasped, her beautiful face flushed crimson.

Yan Zhen was puzzled by her sudden reaction. “What’s wrong?”

Zi Xunyi pointed at him shyly and said, “Husband, why aren’t you wearing any clothes?”

What? Yan Zhen looked down and was dumbfounded. He was completely naked, practically streaking through the flower field.

He felt a surge of embarrassment.

Yan Zhen quickly used his Spiritual Power to create clothes and put them on.

“Ahem, sorry. I wasn’t wearing anything while sleeping.”

Zi Xunyi giggled, covering her mouth. “Did my husband fall asleep while bathing?”

Yan Zhen didn’t know how to explain and just smiled awkwardly.

“How is Ling’er doing?”

“There’s not much change, but our efforts are working.”

“That’s good. I’ll be entering the Inner Academy soon. I’ll discuss the situation with Master.”

“I’ll do whatever my husband decides.”

“Thank you, Zi… Xunyi.”

Zi Xunyi’s heart fluttered. She leaned against Yan Zhen, resting her chin on his shoulder, and said emotionally, “For our daughter, it’s no trouble at all.”

Yan Zhen embraced the beautiful woman, gently stroking her hair to comfort her, then he held her as they sat on the swing, until his consciousness returned to reality.

He opened his eyes. It was already noon, the air still cold, but the bed was warm.

Yan Meng’er and Mi Xue’er were clinging to him, their arms and legs wrapped around him, holding him captive.

Their soft, smooth skin felt wonderful against his, their hair tickling him slightly. Seeing the system warning practically plastered on his face, Yan Zhen sighed.

He could handle one or two, but any more than that, and he would lose control, turning into a relentless… machine.

He had experienced a 1-vs-4 before, when treating his good sister, but that was a pseudo 1-vs-4. Aunt Mu and the Golden-Eyed Jade Servant were only there for support, kissing, licking, touching, and teasing, without any actual… penetration. This time, it was a true 1-vs-4, and with four beautiful women he knew so well and who were so devoted to him.

Seeing their seductive expressions, which they rarely showed normally, Yan Zhen wanted to continue teasing them, unlocking more… experiences and making them even more flustered.

“Sigh~”

Yan Zhen sighed again, then felt the two girls beside him, one caressing his chest and stomach, the other rubbing her leg against him. He looked at them and asked, “Awake?”

The two girls opened their eyes, their gazes clear, indicating they had been awake for a while.

“Good morning, Cousin~”

“Good morning, Little Brother Yan Zhen~”

Yan Zhen couldn’t help but smile. “It’s noon. And classes officially start today, yet we haven’t even chosen our courses. The good ones are probably all taken.”

“Cousin doesn’t need to attend Outer Academy classes.”

“Mm-hmm, nothing to worry about.”

“What about you two?”

“Meng’er doesn’t need to either.”

“Me neither.”

—Because we’re reborn. We’ve already learned everything, even more than the instructors!

The two girls thought simultaneously.

Yan Zhen rolled his eyes. “Then why are you even here at the academy?”

“To be close to Cousin! As long as I have Cousin, nothing else matters~”

“Exactly. Little Brother Yan Zhen is the most important—Little Brother Yan Zhen, I want a good morning kiss~”

“…”

Yan Zhen turned and kissed Mi Xue’er, who readily offered her lips. Then, he heard Yan Meng’er’s coquettish plea: “Cousin, Meng’er wants one too~”

Yan Zhen also kissed Yan Meng’er.

Having received her good morning kiss, Yan Meng’er giggled and placed his arm under her head, using it as a pillow.

“Cousin is so nice~”

Mi Xue’er, mimicking her, also placed his arm around her. “Little Brother Yan Zhen, I love you~”

Listening to their sweet nothings, Yan Zhen felt himself falling for them. He said helplessly, “If you’re not going to class, then sleep a bit more.”

“I don’t want to sleep.” Yan Meng’er shook her head. “Meng’er wants to spend more time with Cousin.”

“Little Brother Yan Zhen, don’t go back to your room so soon, okay?” Mi Xue’er pleaded. “Since we don’t have classes, let’s just stay in bed until tonight, and we can… do it again~”

—Do it again? You two were the first ones to give up last night!

Even Xiao Xinyan, despite it being her first time, had performed better than them after she got used to it!

Yan Zhen was speechless. He embraced the two girls, gently caressing their backs, enjoying the smooth and soft feel of their skin.

“Rest well, don’t push yourselves—hey, what are you doing with your hands?”

The two girls ignored him, continuing their actions.

“Little Brother Yan Zhen, you’re so… energetic~”

“Even after we… served you so diligently last night.”

Yan Zhen’s face darkened. “Don’t touch!”

Mi Xue’er bit her lip and whispered, “You gave me a good morning kiss, Little Brother Yan Zhen, so I’ll return the favor.”

She ducked under the covers, turned around, and moved downwards.

“Meng’er too!”

Yan Meng’er followed, quickly joining Mi Xue’er.

The two girls blushed, looking at each other, then both stuck out their tongues.

Yan Zhen took a deep breath, then exhaled. His outstretched arm touched Yan Ruyu and Xiao Xinyan, who were sleeping on the outside. Feeling them tremble slightly, he realized they were also awake.

“Cousin Ruyu, Senior Sister Xinyan~”

Yan Zhen called out, and the two girls opened their eyes, turning towards him with shy expressions. They moved closer, snuggling into his arms, and then both offered their lips.

Afterward, Yan Zhen stayed in bed with them until evening. They had a sweet and intimate dinner together before he finally left the lakeside residence and returned to the dormitory.

However, he didn’t go back to his room immediately but knocked on Huangfu Wenqing’s door, carrying a food box he had picked up from the dining hall.

Huangfu Wenqing quickly opened the door, a smile appearing on her beautiful face when she saw him. “You’re back, Yan Zhen.”

Yan Zhen held up the food box. “I figured you might not have eaten, so I brought you some.”

Huangfu Wenqing blinked, thinking about how he had spent almost two days at the lakeside residence, and felt emboldened to make a somewhat unreasonable request. “I’ll eat if you feed me.”

Ah, this… Yan Zhen scratched his head and entered Huangfu Wenqing’s room.

She smiled sweetly, closed the door, and enjoyed being fed by her fiancé.

Late at night, after coaxing Huangfu Wenqing into a fit of giggles, Yan Zhen finally returned to his own room, activated the Star Shifting Fire Seal, and went to see Beautiful Master.

He needed to discuss the Zi Xunyi situation with her.

22 A True 1-vs-4!

Such a bold move made both Yan Meng’er and Mi Xue’er blush. They snuggled against his chest, looking at each other’s flushed faces, the subtle animosity between them gradually fading.

Yan Ruyu and Xiao Xinyan smiled, watching them with sisterly affection, as if looking at a loving younger brother and sister.

The atmosphere was warm and comforting.

After a while, Yan Zhen released the two girls and said, “Alright, it’s still early. Go refine the Large Origin Pills. I’ll be staying here today. If you need anything, come to Instructor Yu Xuan’s room.”

The four girls obediently agreed.

Yan Zhen went upstairs to Instructor Yu Xuan’s room, closed the door, and recalled their passionate night together, a sense of longing washing over him.

He took out his communication talisman and saw messages from Instructor Yu Xuan, one in the group chat and one private message.

[Cool Summer Night, Daylily After Rain: Don’t worry, everyone, I’m fine. But I won’t be back for a while. Take care of yourselves, don’t cause trouble, and don’t indulge too much in… those activities. Focus on your cultivation. If you encounter any problems, you can go to Head Instructor Shui Bailan. She’s my aunt and will help you.]

[Instructor Yu Xuan (Note): Yan Zhen, I’ll miss you. I’ll be thinking of you and waiting for you to come get me. You have to miss me too. Don’t forget the old love just because you have new ones. I’ve told you, I’ve set my heart on you… When you come, I’ll… give myself to you completely~~~]

Yan Zhen exhaled deeply, his frustration easing slightly.

He patted his cheeks, calmed himself, sat on the bed to meditate and adjust his breathing, and then extended his Spiritual Perception, enveloping the entire lakeside residence, watching over the four girls as they cultivated.

By dusk, the four girls had refined the Large Origin Pills, their cultivations stabilized at one-star Mystic Scholar. Yan Zhen was relieved and stopped cultivating.

Looking at the sky, Yan Zhen felt a bit hungry, but he didn’t want to order food from the dining hall. He took a energy replenishing pill and then took a bath, changed into his pajamas, and prepared to sleep early, to meet Zi Xunyi in his dreams.

Just as he lay down, a knock came at the door. Yan Zhen waved his hand, and the door opened automatically.

The four girls entered, their faces flushed, looking slightly nervous.

They had clearly just bathed, their skin and hair carrying a faint moisture, as fresh and beautiful as lotus flowers. They were wearing similar silk nightgowns in different colors: Yan Meng’er in pink, Yan Ruyu in red, Mi Xue’er in beige, and Xiao Xinyan in light yellow. Each had a different aura and charm, but the revealing nature of their attire was similar, the overlapping lapels forming a deep V-neck that exposed their cleavage, and the hems barely covering their buttocks, their long legs exposed to Yan Zhen’s gaze.

Yan Zhen was stunned, his eyes taking in their beautiful faces, graceful figures, and revealing attire.

“What… what are you doing?”

Ignoring his question, the four girls climbed onto the bed and, as if they had planned this beforehand, surrounded him, leaving him no escape.

“Cousin~” Yan Meng’er hugged his left arm and said sweetly, “We’ll all serve you tonight~”

What?! Yan Zhen was startled and about to speak, but Mi Xue’er, hugging his right arm, covered his mouth. She pouted and said, “No refusing. We finally made up our minds to do this. We’re already so embarrassed…”

Yan Zhen blinked innocently. When she released his mouth, he asked, “Why are you suddenly doing this?”

Yan Ruyu wrapped her arms around his neck from behind, gently nibbled on his ear, and then said, as if in a fit of pique, “Isn’t wanting to be intimate with the person you love reason enough?”

Yan Zhen smiled wryly. “I don’t want to… impose on you.”

Being willing to marry the same man and being willing to share him in bed were two different things. Yan Zhen had considered sleeping with all of them together, but he couldn’t just indulge himself and ignore their feelings, especially since this would be Xiao Xinyan’s first time.

“It’s not imposing,” Xiao Xinyan, sitting before him, bit her lip. “It’s going to happen eventually, so it’s good to… get used to it now.”

—Senior Sister Xinyan’s acceptance of this is a bit too high!

Yan Zhen felt awkward and was about to say something when Yan Ruyu pulled him back, his upper body falling onto the bed, his head landing between her breasts.

Yan Ruyu looked down at him, her soft hands caressing his chin. “Don’t say anything to ruin the mood. Behave yourself and give Xinyan a good first time.”

Yan Zhen looked down and saw that Xiao Xinyan was already between his legs, having untied his belt and removed his elephant-print boxer briefs.

—Holy crap, what’s this? Another rpe? Last time it was Mi Xue’er acting alone, and now it’s a gang rpe?

“Calm down. This is Instructor Yu Xuan’s room, and she’s not even here—mm!”

Before he could finish, Yan Ruyu’s lips covered his. He felt Yan Meng’er and Mi Xue’er on either side of him, opening his clothes and showering his chest with soft kisses, making him tingle. Then, his newly freed… lower half was swiftly taken into Xiao Xinyan’s mouth.

“…”

The night was quiet, cool, and damp. The entire Outer Academy was brightly lit.

The lakeside residence, the middle room on the second floor.

Xiao Xinyan, losing her virginity, was even less resilient than Yan Meng’er. After a short while, she couldn’t continue. Before she could recover, Yan Zhen’s thrusts made her completely collapse, her body going limp.

Mi Xue’er, seeing her former rival so weak, felt a surge of competitiveness. To prove she was stronger than Xiao Xinyan, she took the initiative and sat on top of Yan Zhen.

However, Yan Zhen quickly took control, lifting her slightly and targeting her sensitive spots, leaving her breathless and defeated, collapsing beside Xiao Xinyan, whimpering in frustration.

Yan Zhen sat on the bed, panting, and looked at Yan Meng’er and Yan Ruyu.

The two sisters exchanged glances, crawled over, and began cleaning him with their tongues.

When Yan Zhen recovered, the cousins knelt down, like obedient puppies, awaiting his attention.

After one round, Mi Xue’er and Xiao Xinyan regained their strength and took over.

The night passed without words, only the sounds of their panting.

Only as dawn broke did the room become quiet.

Yan Zhen, shirtless, got out of bed, poured himself a cup of tea, and drank it in one gulp. Looking back at the four girls sleeping soundly on the bed, he smiled tenderly.

Despite the 1-vs-4 all-nighter, Yan Zhen didn’t feel tired at all.

His +13 enhanced his stamina, and his body tempering had strengthened his constitution. Moreover, except for Yan Ruyu, the other three girls weren’t very… experienced, so he had easily handled them.

Perhaps, only adding Instructor Yu Xuan to the mix would tire him out. After all, she seemed… quite demanding.

He returned to the bed, lay down in the empty space between the girls, pulled the covers over them, and fell asleep peacefully.