Category: They All Want to Be My Female Lead

21 Just a Little Bit

Leaving the hall, the sky was overcast, threatening rain.

Huangfu Wenqing said apologetically, “I’m sorry, Yan Zhen. I didn’t expect things to turn out like this.”

She had just learned about Instructor Yu Xuan’s identity and realized she had inadvertently caused trouble, resulting in the instructor being taken away by her aunt and unable to see Yan Zhen.

Yan Zhen shook his head. “It’s not your fault. It’s my problem. It would have been revealed eventually—you go back first. I’ll go to the small building.”

Huangfu Wenqing nodded obediently and returned to the dormitory alone.

Yan Zhen, along with Yan Meng’er, Yan Ruyu, Mi Xue’er, and Xiao Xinyan, returned to Instructor Yu Xuan’s lakeside residence and sat in the living room.

The atmosphere was heavy, and rain began to fall outside.

Raindrops pattered against the roof, creating a constant noise.

Yan Zhen sighed and said seriously, “Instructor Yu Xuan has been taken away by the Dean and won’t be back for a while. I’ve already applied for the special examination and will be entering the Inner Academy soon. You four take care of yourselves and cultivate diligently. Don’t fall too far behind. This bottle of Large Origin Pills is for you, four pills in total, one for each of you. They should help you stabilize your one-star Mystic Scholar cultivation.”

He took out the pill bottle, poured the pills into his hand, and offered them.

The four girls exchanged glances, hesitant.

Small Origin Pills, Medium Origin Pills, and Large Origin Pills corresponded to the Mystic One, Mystic Scholar, and Mystic Master realms, respectively. Large Origin Pills were excellent for Mystic Master cultivation, one pill equivalent to ten days of arduous training.

With this bottle of Large Origin Pills, he could shorten his cultivation time by over a month. If they took them, Yan Zhen’s cultivation progress would definitely be surpassed by the other new student representatives.

Yan Meng’er shook her head, refusing. “Cousin, you should keep the Large Origin Pills for yourself. We’re only at the Mystic Scholar realm. It would be a waste for us to use them.”

Yan Ruyu also said firmly, “Meng’er is right, Yan Zhen. We can’t hinder your cultivation. Otherwise, it would be difficult to explain to your family. Your cultivation is more important than anything!”

“—To me, you’re more important.” Yan Zhen smiled gently. “Take them.”

The four girls blushed, their hearts fluttering. Their resolve softened, and they each took a pill.

“Thank you, Little Brother Yan Zhen.” Mi Xue’er suddenly stepped forward, kissed Yan Zhen on the cheek, and said playfully, “This is my thank you gift~”

Seeing this, Xiao Xinyan mustered her courage and also kissed him on the other cheek.

“M-my thank you gift too.”

“Senior Sister Xue’er, Senior Sister Xinyan, you’re so cunning!”

Not to be outdone, Yan Meng’er also came forward, wrapped her arms around his neck, stood on tiptoe, and kissed him lightly on the lips.

A quick peck.

But Yan Meng’er wasn’t satisfied with this and kissed him again, sucking on his lips and even slipping her tongue inside for a deeper kiss.

Yan Zhen didn’t resist as usual but accepted her affection, responding to the kiss.

When the kiss ended, Yan Meng’er licked her lips, turned to Yan Ruyu, blinked, and said, “Should Meng’er take care of older sister’s share too?”

Yan Ruyu blushed deeply, feeling embarrassed under the gazes of everyone present.

She slowly moved closer to Yan Zhen, hugged his waist, and then, as usual, gave him a long, gentle kiss.

After the kiss, Yan Ruyu reluctantly released him and murmured, “O-okay.”

Mi Xue’er and Xiao Xinyan immediately felt unbalanced.

They had only kissed his cheek, a quick peck, while the sisters not only kissed his lips but also for so long!

They had to be more proactive, or they wouldn’t stand a chance.

After a moment of thought, Mi Xue’er had an idea. “Since Instructor Yu Xuan isn’t coming back, her room is empty. Little Brother Yan Zhen, why don’t you move in with us?”

“Yes, yes,” Yan Meng’er immediately agreed, then added coquettishly, “Cousin, come live with us. That way, we can spend more time together before you enter the Inner Academy.”

Yan Ruyu and Xiao Xinyan looked at Yan Zhen expectantly.

Yan Zhen hesitated. He didn’t mind, but what about Huangfu Wenqing—

“I’ll think about it.”

Yan Ruyu saw through his thoughts. “Are you worried that Miss Wenqing will be unhappy?”

Yan Zhen nodded. “She’s my fiancée, after all. I have to respect her feelings.”

“Then let her move in too,” Xiao Xinyan said softly. “We’ll have to get along eventually. It’s not good to keep avoiding each other.”

“Not to mention whether Wenqing will agree or not, there are only three rooms here.” Yan Zhen smiled wryly. “How would that even work?”

“It’s simple. We’ll give Instructor Yu Xuan’s room to her, and Junior Brother Yan Zhen, you can… take turns sleeping in our rooms.”

“Huh? Th-that…”

Yan Zhen was speechless.

Xiao Xinyan’s suggestion was every man’s dream, but coming from a young lady’s mouth, it felt… wrong!

He looked at the other three girls.

They were all blushing, but their expressions indicated they weren’t entirely against it.

As Xiao Xinyan had said, it would happen eventually, so getting used to it now wasn’t a bad idea.

Even Yan Meng’er, who disliked Huangfu Wenqing, understood this. She had been deliberately avoiding the thought, but now that Xiao Xinyan had brought it up, she had to acknowledge it.

Yan Zhen scratched his head, feeling uneasy about being so pampered. “Is this really okay?”

Xiao Xinyan fidgeted with her fingers, looking at Yan Zhen shyly, and murmured, “I just… want a little bit.”

—Just a little bit, really.

Her eyes emphasized her words.

“Meng’er too.” Yan Meng’er hugged Yan Zhen’s arm, snuggling against him. “But Meng’er wants a little bit more~”

Mi Xue’er coughed. “Then I want a little bit more than Meng’er.”

Yan Meng’er immediately glared at her, her eyes questioning: “Are you picking a fight, Senior Sister Xue’er?!”

Mi Xue’er crossed her arms and snorted. “I’m the older sister, so I deserve more.”

As for Yan Ruyu, hearing Xiao Xinyan’s “just a little bit,” her mind wandered to… other things, and she blushed again.

She also wanted to say “just a little bit,” but from her previous experience with Yan Zhen, “a little bit” wasn’t enough. She needed at least “two little bits.”

But how could she say that out loud?!

“I-I’m fine with anything.”

Hearing their words, Yan Zhen’s heart was touched. He embraced Yan Meng’er and Mi Xue’er, who were closest to him, one in each arm, enjoying the soft and fragrant feeling of their bodies pressed against his.

20 A Verbal Spar with the Dean’s Younger Aunt

Scumbag… playboy… despicable person!

Since Yan Zhen was this kind of person, Zi Xunyi naturally wouldn’t have anything to do with him.

She would treat that spring dream as just a dream. She wouldn’t cultivate the Spiritual Union chapter again anytime soon—and even if she did, she would find a new kindred spirit, not Yan Zhen.

Zi Xunyi said nothing, her spiritual avatar silently dissipating and returning to her body.

Yan Zhen, unaware that he had been rejected by his future wife (current version), was used to being surrounded by women. Moreover, Huangfu Wenqing was his legitimate fiancée, so he didn’t think much of their public display of affection, until Huangfu Wenqing whispered, “I feel like the Dean keeps looking at us, and her expression is… quite scary…”

Yan Meng’er and Mi Xue’er, hearing this, said,

“It must be because you’re sitting on Cousin’s lap so shamelessly!”

“Hurry up and get down. If you anger the Dean, you’ll be in trouble, Miss Huangfu. Don’t drag us down with you!”

As those reborn, they knew the Outer Academy Dean’s temper. She was a force to be reckoned with when angered!

Huangfu Wenqing ignored them, but Yan Zhen was startled.

—Oh no! I forgot I’m supposed to be the Yu family’s prospective son-in-law, undergoing their scrutiny. Now, both the Dean and the Head Instructor won’t let me off easily.

However, he quickly relaxed.

The Yu family could easily find out about his relationship with Huangfu Wenqing and the other four girls. It didn’t matter if they were exposed. He wasn’t planning to become the Yu family’s son-in-law anyway. He was going to marry Instructor Yu Xuan!

To achieve that, he needed overwhelming power and influence, which he currently lacked. No matter what he said, they wouldn’t listen.

However, he would be letting Instructor Yu Xuan down.

Yan Zhen relaxed his mind and closed his eyes.

Soon, the Dean’s speech ended. Dean Yu Qing put down the microphone, marched over to Instructor Yu Xuan, and began interrogating her.

Instructor Yu Xuan sighed, accepting her fate.

But she trusted him. He would soon free her from her family’s constraints and bring her back to his arms.

However, she wouldn’t be able to be with Yan Zhen for a while. She had been planning to quickly reach the Mystic General realm, lift the restriction, and then give herself to him completely~

Huangfu Wenqing vaguely realized that she had done something wrong and said nervously, “Yan Zhen, did I… cause trouble?”

Yan Zhen patted her head reassuringly.

Finally, it was time for the new student representatives to go on stage. Yan Zhen and the representatives from the other districts walked up and stood in a line, receiving commendations from the Dean.

Dean Yu Qing, having regained her composure, returned, took bottles of Large Origin Pills from a tray held by an instructor, and handed them to the representatives one by one.

The North District representative, Qi Yuxuan from the Qi Lu family.

The West District representative, Shan Ben from Back Mountain City.

The South District representative, Chu Nan from the Great Chu Kingdom.

The East District representative, Yan Zhen from the Gallo Kingdom!

The first three awards were presented normally, but when it was Yan Zhen’s turn, Dean Yu Qing’s expression darkened. She gritted her teeth and transmitted a message through Spiritual Power: “Brat, daring to play with a member of the Yu family, just you wait!”

Yan Zhen retorted with an even more advanced and discreet spiritual transmission: “Old maid.”

Dean Yu Qing, having never been insulted like this, was enraged. Maintaining her composure, she replied through transmission: “What did you say?! Who’s an old maid?! Men lining up to court me could stretch for miles!”

Yan Zhen, unafraid, met her gaze and replied sarcastically through transmission: “Almost forty, and still single, never even been in love. I wonder who that could be~”

“A Mystic Ancestor has a lifespan of nearly five hundred years. What’s wrong with being almost forty? I’m still young!”

“Spending every Qixi Festival alone, how pathetic~”

“You—”

“It seems I need to use a different language to communicate with you, Dean. Woof, woof, woof~”

“Shut up!”

The last sentence was shouted out loud.

Everyone in the hall was startled, even the drowsy students.

What was going on? Why was the Dean suddenly angry?

Dean Yu Qing dropped the pretense and said coldly, “I don’t care how talented you are. The Yu family will never agree to you and Xuan’er being together! She won’t see you again. Give up.”

The entire hall was in an uproar. The students and instructors realized there was drama to be had, their eyes shining with excitement.

The “Xuan’er” mentioned by the Dean, could it be Yu Xuan from the Yu family? The former Academy Belle? Was the East District representative, Yan Zhen, together with her? Weren’t most members of the Yu family forbidden from marrying outside the clan, especially the heir?

“Let me recite a poem.”

Yan Zhen also dropped the act, turned to Instructor Yu Xuan, and began reciting slowly:

Clouds float like works of art, stars drift, conveying sorrow, the Milky Way stretches far and wide, crossed secretly. A single meeting amidst golden wind and jade dew surpasses countless earthly encounters.

Tender feelings like water, a beautiful time like a dream, how can one bear to think of the return path from the magpie bridge? If love between two hearts can last forever, why worry about being together every day?

Dean Yu Qing was stunned, and the crowd was also taken aback, not understanding the poem’s meaning. Only Instructor Yu Xuan, a lover of literature, grasped its profound implications, her heart melting.

—Was this poem for her?

Shui Bailan, who also appreciated such things, was surprised, her eyes fixed on him. This philandering brat is actually quite talented?

After a moment of reflection, the others also understood the meaning of the poem, filled with admiration.

This guy, composing a poem on the spot to retort the Dean, comparing himself and Yu Xuan to the Cowherd and Weaver Girl, accusing her of separating lovers, and expressing his unwavering love, he was truly courting death.

Dean Yu Qing was furious again, feeling like she had become the villain separating lovers, when it was clearly this womanizer’s fault!

She shoved the bottle of Large Origin Pills into Yan Zhen’s arms and stormed off, pulling Instructor Yu Xuan with her.

Shui Bailan glared at Yan Zhen and followed.

The instructor hosting the ceremony felt awkward and quickly concluded the entrance ceremony, dismissing everyone. Classes would officially begin tomorrow.

Among the crowd, Bai Yue was secretly delighted, seeing Yan Zhen’s falling out with the Yu family elders.

However, remembering the poem Yan Zhen had composed for Instructor Yu Xuan, and the tender expression on her face, he felt incredibly jealous!

—This boy is such an eyesore!

As he thought this, Bai Yue saw Shan Ben, the West District representative, walk up to Yan Zhen and taunt him, “So focused on romance as soon as you arrive. No wonder your cultivation is only at three-star Mystic Master. Is this the level of the East District’s representative? How disappointing.”

Yan Zhen glanced at the tall young man and thought, I’ll kick your ass in a few days!

“Worry about yourself. You’re even doing body tempering wrong.”

Yan Zhen ignored him, returned to his seat, joined the five girls, and left the hall.

19 Yan Zhen, the Scumbag

Rewinding time slightly…

Yan Zhen woke up from his dream and saw a red dot flashing on his communication talisman. It was a message from Instructor Yu Xuan, reminding him about the entrance ceremony and not to be late.

After quickly washing up, he heard a knock on the door and Huangfu Wenqing’s voice: “Yan Zhen, wake up!”

Yan Zhen quickly got dressed and opened the door, greeting his fiancée waiting outside. “Morning, Wenqing.”

Huangfu Wenqing smiled sweetly, smoothing down his messy hair. “It’s time for the entrance ceremony. Let’s go together.”

Yan Zhen nodded and left the dormitory with his fiancée, heading towards the ceremony hall.

The hall was already crowded when they arrived. Yan Zhen took out his communication talisman, followed Instructor Yu Xuan’s instructions, and led Huangfu Wenqing to their seats.

Huangfu Wenqing actually wanted to be alone with Yan Zhen, but she couldn’t stop him from going to Instructor Yu Xuan and the other four girls. She simply followed, holding his arm possessively, acting like a devoted fiancée and attracting the attention of many students.

Although Huangfu Wenqing was only a B-cup, her beauty and elegant demeanor made her stand out, even among the Outer Academy’s belles. Yan Zhen was also a handsome young man, exuding a warm and gentle aura. Together, they made a striking couple.

“Cousin, over here~”

“Little Brother Yan Zhen, we saved you seats~”

Yan Meng’er stood on tiptoe, waving her arms, and Mi Xue’er also called out excitedly.

Yan Zhen spotted them and quickly walked over with Huangfu Wenqing, joining the four girls.

However, Instructor Yu Xuan didn’t seem to be there.

“Where’s Instructor?”

Yan Ruyu explained, “Instructor isn’t an Outer Academy student or instructor, so she can only observe from the side.”

Xiao Xinyan pointed towards the front right. “She’s over there.”

Yan Zhen looked over and saw Instructor Yu Xuan standing with Head Instructor Shui Bailan, the two of them whispering to each other.

Instructor Yu Xuan noticed Yan Zhen’s gaze, waved at him, and then sent him a message.

[Cool Summer Night, Daylily After Rain: Representatives from the four districts will be going on stage later. You’re the representative for the East District. Don’t be too nervous~]
[Yan of Fire, Zhen of Innocence: Why me? Shouldn’t it be Wenqing?]
[Cool Summer Night, Daylily After Rain: Wenqing said she wants you to go.]
[Yan of Fire, Zhen of Innocence: ???]

Yan Zhen turned to Huangfu Wenqing, who gave him a mischievous smile.

“…”

Yan Zhen didn’t refuse. In the script, there was indeed a segment where the new student representatives went on stage to receive awards. They were given a bottle of Large Origin Pills as encouragement. Nothing special.

However, after the ceremony, someone from the West District would say something provocative, but Yan Zhen would ignore them, not considering them as rivals.

Beautiful Master had said that he was now capable of fighting above his realm. His opponents should be Mystic Generals, not mere Mystic Masters.

“Cousin, come sit down. The ceremony is about to begin.”

“The seat in the middle is for you.”

Yan Meng’er and Mi Xue’er pulled Yan Zhen to the seat between them. Huangfu Wenqing looked around, frowning. “Where do I sit?”

“Ahem, sorry, we only saved a seat for Cousin.”

“That’s right, Miss Huangfu. You’ll have to find another seat.”

The two girls looked smug. Huangfu Wenqing narrowed her eyes, scanned the surroundings, then her gaze fell on Yan Zhen’s lap, and she blushed.

—This is so embarrassing in public, but I can’t lose to them!

Huangfu Wenqing mustered her courage, walked to Yan Zhen, turned around, and sat on his lap.

Yan Zhen was stunned. Yan Meng’er and Mi Xue’er stared at them with wide eyes. Yan Ruyu and Xiao Xinyan blushed along with Huangfu Wenqing, and the surrounding students gave them strange looks.

Yan Zhen felt awkward. “Wenqing, this isn’t very appropriate…”

Huangfu Wenqing’s face was crimson. “There are… no other seats. I have to make do.”

Yan Meng’er blinked her lively eyes and said, “Well, Huangfu, for Cousin’s sake, I’ll give you my seat~”

Her tone was unusually friendly!

Huangfu Wenqing snorted haughtily. “No need. I’m comfortable here!”

Yan Meng’er pouted, clearly jealous.

Mi Xue’er also said sourly, “Miss Huangfu, you’re crushing Little Brother Yan Zhen. He’ll be uncomfortable, and he has to go on stage as the new student representative later.”

Huangfu Wenqing said indifferently, “I’ll get up when he goes on stage and be his chair when he returns.”

The two girls were stunned. She even planned for that?

—Damn it, why didn’t I think of that!

Yan Meng’er and Mi Xue’er were dejected, practically radiating defeat.

Yan Ruyu and Xiao Xinyan remained silent, pretending not to know them. How embarrassing!

Yan Zhen sighed and put his arms around his fiancée’s waist, looking towards the stage over her shoulder.

The time had come, and the entrance ceremony officially began. Dean Yu Qing, wearing her formal robes, walked onto the stage with a serious expression and began her speech, using the standard leadership opening: “I’ll just say a few words…”

Yan Zhen leaned back in his seat, bored, and adjusted his position, holding Huangfu Wenqing so she was half-lying against his chest.

On stage, Shui Bailan’s attention was constantly on Yan Zhen and the girl beside him. Seeing this scene, her expression darkened slightly, but maintaining her composure, she asked, “Is the girl sitting on Yan Zhen’s lap Huangfu Wenqing, the top-ranked new student from the East District? What’s their relationship?”

Instructor Yu Xuan’s head throbbed, knowing she couldn’t hide it any longer. She said with a forced smile, “Miss Wenqing is Yan Zhen’s fiancée.”

Fiancée? Shui Bailan’s eyes widened in disbelief, then she lowered her voice. “You… you knew?”

Instructor Yu Xuan nodded weakly.

Shui Bailan’s face turned red with anger, her ample bosom heaving.

Dean Yu Qing was equally furious. She even stumbled over her speech, glaring at Yan Zhen.

—This womanizer, does he think my Xuan’er is easy to bully, openly displaying such intimacy with another girl in public? How dare he!

Besides the two Yu family members, Zi Xunyi, hidden in the shadows, was also stunned.

Wasn’t this Yan Zhen supposed to be practically a member of the Yu family? Why was he so close to another girl? And not just the one on his lap, the other two beside him also seemed to have a close relationship with him.

Wasn’t this the typical behavior of a scumbag?!

For some reason, Zi Xunyi felt a pang of sadness, unwilling to believe that Yan Zhen was such a despicable person.

He had been so gentle in her dream…

18 The Case is Solved; Blame the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire!

Dean Yu Qing didn’t know Zi Xunyi’s background, only that she was a distinguished guest of the Jiā Lán Sacred Ground and must be treated with the utmost respect.

“Of course. The new student records are on the bookshelf to your left, on the top shelf, one book per kingdom.”

Following Dean Yu Qing’s instructions, Zi Xunyi went to the bookshelf, pulled out the “Black Horn Empire” record, and quickly scanned through it with her Spiritual Power.

“Not this one.”

She put the record back and took out another, continuing to search for the handsome, fair-faced young man from her memory.

Seeing this, Dean Yu Qing became curious. “What are you looking for, Lady Zi Ji?”

Zi Xunyi, still flipping through the pages, replied, “Just a whim. Are there any promising talents among the new students, Dean Yu Qing?”

Dean Yu Qing pondered. “There are thirteen Mystic Masters among the new students. The highest are two five-star Mystic Masters, one named Huangfu Wenqing from Cloud Heaven Palace in the Gallo Kingdom, and the other named Qi Yuxuan from the Qi Lu family in the north. However, there are also cases of four-star Mystic Masters defeating five-star ones, like student Shan Ben from Back Mountain City in the west, and student Chu Nan from the Great Chu Kingdom in the south. Our Central region, however, still lacks any truly outstanding talents. We’ve been completely outshone.”

Zi Xunyi casually asked, “Why is that?”

Dean Yu Qing shrugged. “The major sects in the Central region have already snatched up all the talented individuals, offering increasingly generous terms.”

Once they joined a sect, they belonged to the sect, in life and death. There was no graduation, unlike the more flexible and independent academies. The support they received was also different.

For top talents, joining a sect provided better cultivation resources compared to studying at the academy. For example, Huangfu Wenqing, even with her advantage of being reborn, wouldn’t have progressed so quickly without the resources of Cloud Heaven Palace.

Zi Xunyi wasn’t interested in this. The prodigies mentioned by Dean Yu Qing were different from the ones she considered true prodigies.

“Among these talented students, Dean Yu Qing, are there any who excel in soul cultivation?”

“Soul cultivation?” Dean Yu Qing looked at Zi Xunyi’s spiritual avatar and pondered. “Those who excel in soul cultivation are usually alchemists. Most of the new alchemist students are Tier 1, with a few Tier 2. None are particularly noteworthy.”

“I see…”

“No, wait. There is one who’s quite impressive in soul cultivation.” Dean Yu Qing recalled the annoyingly handsome face. “He even detected my observation. His soul cultivation should be at the Manifest Realm.”

“Manifest Realm?” Zi Xunyi’s heart stirred. She turned around and smiled. “Could you tell me who that is, Dean Yu Qing?”

“An impudent brat!” Dean Yu Qing said, gritting her teeth. “He’s also from the Gallo Kingdom, like that Huangfu Wenqing. His name is ‘Yan Zhen.’ His Mystic Power cultivation is at the three-star Mystic Master level, second among the new students from the east, but his strength is greater than it appears… Lady Zi Ji, you can check his records yourself.”

“Yan Zhen?”

Zi Xunyi murmured the name, finding it strangely familiar, evoking a sense of closeness.

She put the record back on the shelf and took out the one for the Gallo Kingdom. The first page was Yan Zhen’s.

Zi Xunyi’s pupils constricted. The portrait on the file was the same young man from her dream.

His handsome, innocent-looking face hid a surprisingly… vigorous nature. He had been tireless throughout their night of passion.

“Young City Lord of Martial Tang City… Cultivates Fire Mystic Power… Has repeatedly defeated opponents of higher realms, reaching the top of the Nine Star List as an eight-star Mystic One… Took a three-month leave, leaving as a nine-star Mystic One and returning as a three-star Mystic Master… Defeated the Mystic General-level Silver Moon City Lord with the help of a treasured armor?”

Dean Yu Qing noticed the change in Zi Xunyi’s expression and frowned, wondering if this important guest was interested in that Yan Zhen brat.

“Do you know him, Lady Zi Ji?”

Zi Xunyi looked up and smiled faintly. “The file doesn’t mention his soul cultivation. Dean Yu Qing, could you tell me more about it?”

For some reason, seeing Zi Xunyi’s interest in Yan Zhen made Dean Yu Qing feel uneasy.

—No matter how bad that brat is, he’s still the man Xuan’er chose. If he’s taken by another woman…

—No, no, what am I thinking? This esteemed guest wouldn’t even give Wen Canglan, the second-ranked on the Rising Star List, a second glance. She wouldn’t be interested in that brat.

—But what if…?

After a moment’s hesitation, Dean Yu Qing said truthfully, “To be honest, this boy has a close relationship with my Xuan’er. He’s her student and also her lover. So, I tested him personally.”

Zi Xunyi’s heart sank, a sudden tightness in her chest.

—So he already has a lover? And it’s a student-teacher relationship?

“And the result?”

“Ahem, he has refined the thirteenth-ranked Extreme Flame, the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire, so his Spiritual Power carries a sinister aura and a hint of dragon’s might, capable of intimidating others.”

“Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire?”

Zi Xunyi was surprised.

The Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire and the Jade Firmament Violet Fire were polar opposites. The former was a manifestation of negative emotions, possessing the power to corrupt, while the latter was pure and holy, with the power to purify and resist inner demons.

Could it be that the shameful dream last night was caused by the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire?

She was cultivating the Spiritual Union chapter, her soul wandering in search of a kindred spirit. Yan Zhen’s soul fluctuations must have resonated with hers, leading to their encounter in the dream. Normally, it would have been a simple conversation, a meeting of minds, becoming spiritual companions.

However, Yan Zhen possessed the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire, his soul tainted with distracting thoughts, influencing the dream’s content and turning it into something… unspeakable.

Zi Xunyi suddenly understood. The case was solved!

“Being able to refine the thirteenth-ranked Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire, this student Yan Zhen is indeed extraordinary. The Yu family might have found a good son-in-law.”

Dean Yu Qing sighed softly. “He’s talented, but whether he’s a good son-in-law is another matter. And their secret relationship violates our family rules. Whether my sister, the Clan Head, will accept him is still unknown… Uh, forgive my rambling, Lady Zi Ji. I hope you don’t mind.”

Zi Xunyi smiled faintly. “It’s alright. I’m often alone in the Inner Academy. A casual chat is a welcome change—if I’m not mistaken, the entrance ceremony is about to begin. May I observe?”

“Of course.” Dean Yu Qing thought for a moment, then asked, “Do you want to see Yan Zhen, Lady Zi Ji?”

“Yes. The wielder of the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire… I’m quite interested.”

Chapter 17: Zi Xunyi’s Spring Dream

Immersed in cultivation…

Spiritual Power +1 +1 +1…

A soul body doesn’t experience fatigue!

After cultivating until dawn, Yan Zhen reluctantly released the now-limp Zi Xunyi. Feeling his strengthened Spiritual Power, he felt no guilt about their intimacy for the first time.

He wished it could continue, but he had to attend the entrance ceremony.

Yan Zhen patted his lovely companion and said, “It’s almost dawn. I have to go. Call me again in your dreams if you need anything.”

Zi Xunyi responded with a soft hum, kissed him gently on the lips, and watched as his form gradually faded.

Alone in the vast flower field, she sat on the swing, swaying silently, as if the passionate encounter was just an illusion.

Zi Xunyi sighed softly and withdrew from the dreamscape.

…

The Sacred Ground Academy was divided into the Inner and Outer Academies.

The Outer Academy was like a town, with complete living facilities, practically a “school city.”

The Inner Academy, across the river, was different. Massive square pillars stood at the four cardinal directions, connected by barrier walls, enclosing the entire Inner Academy.

From the Outer Academy, the Inner Academy appeared shrouded in mist, its true form hidden, mysterious. The only visible structure was the nine-storied “Celestial Dome Pagoda,” floating high in the sky. Intruding from outside was naturally very difficult.

The Inner Academy, situated on a hundred-zhang tall mountain, resembled a sect, with a strong mystical atmosphere.

Here, the academy’s elite students gathered. High-star Mystic Masters were numerous, and there were even hundreds of Mystic Generals listed on the “Rising Star List,” revered by all.

However, the strongest student in the Inner Academy wasn’t the top-ranked on the Rising Star List, but a mysterious and beautiful woman in purple.

She lived with the Inner Academy’s higher-ups, residing alone in a small building on the cliff edge, a secluded location. She rarely ventured out and kept a low profile. Ordinary students could only glimpse her elegant figure during important events.

The aura she exuded was only at the Mystic Master realm, yet she could repel the second-ranked student on the Rising Star List with a single palm strike. During a training expedition, she even used a violet-gold Extreme Flame to instantly kill a Tier 4 Mystic Beast. Her true cultivation was estimated to be between peak Mystic General and Mystic King. She was revered as the “Purple-Clad Goddess.”

In truth, she was indeed the Purple Extreme Goddess of the Celestial God Clan from the Eighth Continent, Zi Xunyi.

…

In the small building on the cliff edge, within the empty cultivation room, a soft moan echoed as Zi Xunyi slowly awoke.

She lay on the meditation cushion, her clothes disheveled, her hair messy, a light sheen of sweat on her forehead, her face flushed, her amethyst eyes slightly unfocused, and a lingering trace of passion in her expression. She was clearly aroused.

Because she had a long, incredibly vivid erotic dream.

In her dream, she met a handsome young man in a field of purple flowers. She called him “husband.” After they chatted on a swing, she straddled him and began moving her hips, kissing him passionately and doing everything she could to please him.

Again and again, as if insatiable, they made love on the swinging chair, her heart melting with pleasure.

Zi Xunyi desperately wanted to escape this dream, but she couldn’t, forced to watch “herself” and the unfamiliar young man entangled in passionate lovemaking.

After what felt like an eternity, the young man finally left, and she immediately withdrew from the dreamscape.

“Mm…”

Zi Xunyi sat up, her legs instinctively closing, the sticky sensation between her thighs making her uncomfortable, as she preferred cleanliness.

“I need a bath.”

She left the cultivation room, returned to her room on the third floor, filled the bathtub, gracefully removed her clothes and soaked undergarments, and stepped into the tub, cleansing her body.

“Why would I have such a shameful dream?”

As she bathed, she pondered, quickly recalling the previous “inner demon” that claimed to be her future self, reborn.

“Could it be that inner demon’s influence? But it has already been suppressed by the Jade Firmament Violet Fire.”

Zi Xunyi frowned, feeling a sense of unease.

She couldn’t clearly remember the dream’s details, but the young man’s face remained vivid in her mind, giving her a sense of familiarity. Yet, she was certain she had never met him before.

She was from the Eighth Continent and knew no one in Jiā Lán Continent.

“Husband? He looked much younger than me. Why would I marry him?”

Zi Xunyi wondered if he had deliberately manipulated her dream, but she quickly dismissed the idea.

Her soul was strong, and she was protected by the Jade Firmament Violet Fire. Unless the young man’s soul cultivation had reached the True Realm, the level of solidifying the ethereal, he couldn’t affect her in any way.

The True Realm of soul cultivation was comparable to a Mystic Ancestor, the level of a Dean. There was no such person in the academy.

Moreover, True Realm soul cultivators were even rarer than Mystic Ancestors. They were few even in the Eighth Continent, let alone Jiā Lán Continent.

“Sigh.”

Zi Xunyi sighed. She had recently started cultivating the Spiritual Union chapter, her soul wandering between the ethereal and the tangible. She had hoped to find a kindred spirit, someone she could connect with, to make her life less monotonous. She hadn’t expected it to turn into an intense erotic dream.

Had she made a mistake in her cultivation? That shouldn’t be possible.

“Could that young man be a student in the academy?”

Thinking of this, Zi Xunyi got out of the bathtub, dried herself with Mystic Power, changed into a clean purple dress, and left the building, heading towards the Dean’s office.

The position of Inner Academy Dean was currently vacant, and all matters were handled by the Vice Dean and the Grand Elder. The Dean’s office was empty and locked.

However, Zi Xunyi had special privileges. She opened the door to the office and started searching through the student records.

She used her Spiritual Power, a light shining from her forehead, quickly scanning through all the files.

After searching through everything, she couldn’t find any information matching the young man.

“Not a student? Or… not in the Inner Academy?” Zi Xunyi pondered, then suddenly remembered that it was the time for new students to enroll. “A student from the Outer Academy?”

—I should go take a look.

Normally, students weren’t allowed to leave the academy except during specific holidays or training expeditions, but Zi Xunyi, with her Hidden Realm soul cultivation, could project her spirit.

She returned to the cliffside building, sat in her room, and projected a spiritual avatar.

Half an hour later, Zi Xunyi’s spiritual avatar appeared in the Outer Academy and headed towards Yu Heaven Pavilion to meet the Outer Academy Dean.

Arriving at the Dean’s office, Zi Xunyi politely knocked on the door and entered after hearing a response.

Only Dean Yu Qing was inside, reviewing a document. Seeing Zi Xunyi’s spiritual avatar, she was slightly surprised, put down the parchment, and said, “Lady Zi Ji, what brings you here?”

The Outer Academy Dean and the Inner Academy Grand Elder were sisters. Zi Xunyi had met her a few times and said directly, “Dean Yu Qing, I’d like to see the records of the new students. Is that possible?”

16 Zi Xunyi’s Feelings

Even knowing that the beautiful woman before him was his future wife, Yan Zhen still felt some resistance.

After all, this was only their second meeting, and it was in a dream. They had never even met in reality. Starting things so quickly felt… too fast.

But this was to save his future daughter. Not just him, Zi Xunyi must also be feeling shy.

“…”

Yan Zhen sat on the vine swing, leaning back slightly and spreading his legs a bit so Zi Xunyi could sit comfortably. He held her waist, their bodies close together.

They both sighed softly. Then, Zi Xunyi leaned in and kissed him. After a moment’s hesitation, he responded.

However, Zi Xunyi only pecked his lips twice before moving to his ear, gently nibbling on his earlobe with her teeth.

Yan Zhen shuddered, feeling his weakness completely exploited. Her precision, force, and rhythm were near perfect, so skillful that he couldn’t even think of resisting, only wanting to surrender and enjoy her ministrations.

—She’s so good at this, even better than Cai Lian!

—No, I have to stay in control!

After a while, Zi Xunyi released his ear and said, her voice seductive, “Husband, I’ll impart the Spiritual Union chapter of the Emperor and Empress Yin-Yang Grand Art to you now. Cultivating together will be more efficient.”

As she spoke, verses of the technique appeared in Yan Zhen’s mind, and he began circulating the technique under her guidance.

This was the advantage of dual cultivation techniques.

Normally, techniques of this level were difficult to comprehend, but with dual cultivation techniques, as long as one person mastered it, they could guide their partner, albeit with lower efficiency. After becoming familiar with the technique, they could cultivate together, increasing the efficiency.

The vine swing started to sway.

Their souls intertwined, Yin and Yang merging, creating a mysterious energy that transformed into glowing fireflies, flying into the depths of the dreamscape, scattering light and making Yan Lingji’s translucent form more solid, as if filling it with color.

After one round, Zi Xunyi leaned against Yan Zhen’s shoulder, panting softly, occasionally kissing his neck and leaving marks. Then, her lips moved to his face, neck, and finally, his mouth, kissing him deeply.

When they parted, Zi Xunyi’s eyes were moist as she gazed at Yan Zhen lovingly, her heart filled with sweetness.

“Husband~”

Having not seen him for over a year, the accumulated longing in her heart now overflowed like a broken dam.

She removed her purple dress and Yan Zhen’s clothes, completely surrendering to the moment.

In her previous life, Zi Xunyi had admired Yan Zhen since their time in the Inner Academy. However, due to her status, she never dared to reveal her feelings, even after leaving the Sacred Ground Academy and returning to the Celestial God Clan. She could only suppress her affections.

She had thought they were fated to be apart, never expecting that after graduating from the academy, Yan Zhen would become the Jiā Lán Holy Son and her designated fiancé, leading to their marriage.

How fortunate she was!

The only problem was that, as the “later arrival,” she couldn’t fully capture his heart.

Yan Zhen still held feelings for Yun Xiu, missed the deceased Jiu Youyue, and cared for the unfortunate Yi Xian’er.

She could accept Cai Lian, willingly taking a lower position, and she could also accept women like Ji Ya who secretly admired Yan Zhen. But she also wanted to be the most important person in his heart.

Having been reborn, Zi Xunyi naturally wanted to strive for this, to win his heart and secure a place no one could replace.

So, she confessed directly, for her daughter and for herself.

“…”

Experiencing spiritual union for the first time, Yan Zhen clearly felt his Spiritual Power increase. Knowing that this could not only make him stronger but also heal his future daughter, he became enthusiastic.

After two rounds, they stopped, sitting quietly on the swing, enjoying each other’s presence.

After a year of separation, this reunion, even if only spiritual, made Zi Xunyi completely immersed in the moment, clinging to Yan Zhen and showering him with kisses.

Yan Zhen didn’t resist, one arm around her slender waist, the other gently caressing her back and hair, enjoying the smooth and soft texture.

This was his second wife. Unlike Cai Lian, who was outwardly cold but inwardly passionate, Zi Xunyi was almost completely submissive to him, giving him everything he wanted, satisfying him both physically and emotionally.

The only problem was that their relationship was progressing too quickly, deviating significantly from the script.

At this time, they should only be “dream friends,” occasionally meeting in dreams during their cultivation, sitting beneath the tree in this flower field, chatting, or even sparring, without even exchanging names, like two kindred spirits sharing a few heartfelt words.

Zi Xunyi teaching him the Spiritual Union chapter and dual cultivating with him was supposed to happen after they were engaged.

It just so happened that Yan Zhen’s Spiritual Power cultivation was on the verge of breaking through to the True Realm, and with Zi Xunyi’s help, he successfully advanced.

Learning it now, he didn’t know what impact it would have.

“Rebirth…”

“What is it, husband?”

“Why were you and Ling’er reborn?”

“I don’t know the reason. I just… regained consciousness and found myself reborn, and Ling’er was with me. At first, I thought it was an inner demon, but then I realized we had returned to the past.”

“Actually, I met Yan’er in Water City, besides Cai Lian.”

“Yan’er?” Zi Xunyi looked up abruptly. “Husband, do you mean—”

“Yan’er was also reborn and told me quite a bit about you.”

“Really? Then… what about Sister Cai Lian?”

“She… doesn’t seem to be reborn.”

Saying this, Yan Zhen felt a bit suspicious.

Zi Xunyi and Ling’er were reborn together, so why weren’t Cai Lian and Yan’er reborn together?

Thinking about it, Cai Lian’s attitude towards him did seem like they had known each other for years, not like it was their first meeting.

Could Cai Lian also be reborn, but deliberately hiding it?

Yan Zhen thought it was highly likely but couldn’t understand her reason.

Zi Xunyi, however, immediately understood Sister Cai Lian’s intentions and smiled inwardly, thinking that her husband was so naive, easily fooled by Sister Cai Lian.

If it weren’t for Ling’er’s sudden predicament, Zi Xunyi would have done the same.

After he entered the Inner Academy, she would have orchestrated a “chance encounter,” then pursued him, hinted at her feelings, and acted intimately with him. Seeing him flustered and confused would have been quite amusing~

Unfortunately, she had to give up on that now.

“Let’s not talk about this. We should focus on solving Ling’er’s problem first.” Yan Zhen started swinging again, his movements causing Zi Xunyi to moan softly. “I’ve already asked the Dean to help me apply for the special examination. If all goes well, I’ll enter the Inner Academy within half a month. Then I’ll try to contact… the current you.”

15 Zi Xunyi: I’ll Take the Lead

Yan Zhen was becoming increasingly confused.

Zi Xunyi claiming to be reborn was already unbelievable, but now she was saying she was reborn but not completely reborn?!

This…

“What exactly is going on?”

Zi Xunyi lowered her head dejectedly. “It should be related to the Jade Firmament Violet Fire within my body.”

Yan Zhen’s eyes narrowed at the mention of this.

The Jade Firmament Violet Fire, ranked ninth on the Extreme Flame List, was known as the noblest Extreme Flame, born in the highest heavens and said to possess the ability to communicate with the divine.

It was incredibly powerful, capable of subjugating any Extreme Flame ranked below thirty-six and using them for its own purposes. It also possessed a purifying power that protected the mind and countered inner demons, repelling all evil, the complete opposite of the Evil Spirit Dragon Breath Fire, which absorbed negative emotions.

In ancient times, it was called by another name, “Heavenly Cleansing Fire.”

“Could it be that the Jade Firmament Violet Fire mistook you for an inner demon and separated your consciousness?”

Zi Xunyi nodded slightly. “That should be the case. And I possess the talent of ‘dual consciousness,’ so even after my consciousness was split into two, they can exist independently.”

Damn, that’s incredible!

Yan Zhen had read countless novels, but this was the first time he had heard of someone being reborn only to have their own power treat them as an inner demon! How… unfortunate.

Goddess wife’s image, shattered!

Zi Xunyi’s face was filled with grievance, her pitiful appearance evoking sympathy. But Yan Zhen couldn’t help but feel speechless, imagining her being… tormented by herself.

—I can’t even avenge you!

He couldn’t exactly beat up his current wife to vent for his future wife, could he?

Yan Zhen closed his eyes, trying to calm down and understand Zi Xunyi’s situation.

His wife was reborn, but not completely. His daughter was also reborn with her, but lacking a physical body and unable to reside in her sea of consciousness, her consciousness was fading.

Yan’er was perfectly fine, so why was Ling’er having problems?!

These were all issues not mentioned in the script, making Yan Zhen frustrated.

“Husband, every word I’ve spoken is true.”

“I believe you. After all, you know so many secrets about me. I have no choice but to believe you.”

Mainly because he had the script and already knew that Zi Xunyi was his future wife. He was mentally prepared. Otherwise, he might not have been able to accept it so easily.

“Husband…”

“Then where is Ling’er—our daughter—now?”

“Ling’er is currently sealed within the depths of this dreamscape.”

Zi Xunyi formed a hand seal, and a mirror appeared before them, showing the image of a young girl, around twelve or thirteen years old, with features resembling Zi Xunyi.

Yan Zhen instantly felt a connection to her. There was no doubt that this little girl was his other daughter, Yan Lingji.

Yan Lingji was sleeping in a chaotic void, her face pale, her small body slightly translucent, a stark contrast to Yan Yan.

Seeing his daughter like this, Yan Zhen felt a tightness in his chest, his mood darkening.

The script didn’t describe Yan Lingji much, only mentioning her briefly in the epilogue.

Unlike her mischievous older sister, Yan Lingji was quiet and obedient, preferring to read in the study, her voice soft and gentle, her personality somewhat introverted. She was only close to her family.

Besides them, Yi Xian’er, who was very close to Zi Xunyi, was considered half-family. As for others, including Ji Ya, Yan Lingji was shy and would hide behind her parents whenever she met strangers.

“How is she doing?”

“She’s getting weaker by the day. Within a year at most, I’m afraid Ling’er will—”

A year… Yan Zhen frowned and said, “I’ll ask Master. Perhaps she has a solution.”

“Master Chen Xi can’t help in her current state.” Zi Xunyi had no hope. “At this time, she should only be at the Demigod realm, still trapped within the Fire Refining Starry Sky, her powers limited… It’s best not to trouble her.”

Yan Zhen also cared about Beautiful Master and didn’t want to burden her with more worries.

“Then what should we do? We can’t just do nothing and watch Ling’er disappear.”

“There is a way.”

Zi Xunyi bit her lip and whispered, her words enlightening Yan Zhen, as he had done something similar recently.

To ensure Cai Lian became pregnant, he had stayed in the Water City palace for three extra days, working tirelessly from day to night, filling her to the brim.

Seeing Yan Zhen’s stunned expression, Zi Xunyi blushed and continued, “A year is just enough time… As long as I conceive soon, Ling’er can reside within the developing fetus and be born safely.”

Yan Zhen scratched his cheek awkwardly, realizing why she had urged him to come to the Inner Academy and give birth to Ling’er quickly. She had already planned this.

“Husband~” Zi Xunyi suddenly embraced Yan Zhen, her ample breasts pressing against him. Her beautiful face close to his, she whispered, “I know you might not be able to accept your wife and daughter from the future yet, but Ling’er doesn’t have time to wait—please save her, okay?”

The intimacy of their souls was even more intense than physical contact. Even with their clothes on, this simple embrace felt more pleasurable than their usual dual cultivation.

Zi Xunyi quickly noticed Yan Zhen’s reaction and smiled shyly. “Husband, do you agree?”

—Hey! I haven’t said anything yet! Don’t assume my… lower half’s agreement is mine!

Yan Zhen turned his head away, not daring to look at Zi Xunyi’s beautiful face.

This was the most beautiful face he had ever seen, her features perfect, every expression captivating. In the script, she was described as “the perfect woman.”

So perfect, she almost seemed unreal.

“It’s not a matter of whether I agree or not, but whether you, or rather, your current self, agrees.”

Yan Zhen hadn’t forgotten that they were in a dream. Both he and his perfect wife were just consciousnesses. Even if they were intimate, they couldn’t conceive a child.

“That requires long-term planning, but we can do something now.”

“What can we do?”

“We can… dual cultivate using the Spiritual Union chapter of the Emperor and Empress Yin-Yang Grand Art,” Zi Xunyi said shyly. “The fusion of our Spiritual Powers will create a Yin-Yang energy that can stabilize Ling’er’s consciousness and slow down its dissipation.”

That worked too?

“Are… are you sure?”

Zi Xunyi nodded slightly. “In my previous life, when Ling’er was born, her soul was too strong, making her soul and body prone to separation. That’s how we, as husband and wife, stabilized her consciousness.”

Yan Zhen scratched his head. “Then what should I do?”

Zi Xunyi stood up, straddled Yan Zhen’s lap, wrapped her arms around his neck, and whispered in his ear, “…Husband, don’t worry about it. I’ll… take the lead.”

14 Zi Xunyi: I Am Reborn

Yan Zhen hazily “woke up,” not in reality, but in a “dream.”

He stood in a field of purple flowers, enveloped by their fragrance, the air sweet and intoxicating. He touched his face; the sensation felt real.

This must be the dreamscape created by Zi Xunyi, right?

“Husband…”

A familiar voice called out. Yan Zhen looked towards the sound and saw a beautiful woman with purple hair, purple eyes, and a purple dress standing beneath the large tree in the center of the flower field. She gazed at him with a sorrowful expression, her furrowed brows evoking pity.

Yan Zhen gathered his courage and walked towards her, stopping a meter away and observing her carefully.

Although her overall appearance was purple, the shades varied subtly.

Her long hair, cascading down to her hips, was a dreamy lavender.

Her shimmering eyes were a reddish-purple, like two pure amethysts, exuding an indescribable noble aura, different from Yi Xian’er’s dark purple eyes, which were a result of her cultivation technique and carried a sense of oppressive depth.

Her dress was purple with gold trim, layers of gossamer fabric creating a translucent effect without revealing any skin, highlighting her elegant and regal bearing, like… an imperial consort, a dignified figure of noble status.

Yan Zhen blinked. According to the script, Zi Xunyi was practically perfect: breathtakingly beautiful, with a curvaceous figure, an elegant demeanor, impeccable manners, and unparalleled talent. She would appear as the strongest student in the Inner Academy, the only one at the Mystic King realm, known as the “Purple-Clad Goddess.”

She would occasionally reveal a cunning side, saying terrifying things with a sweet smile, making one suspect she was a sadist!

However, right now, his second future wife looked sorrowful, evoking sympathy.

Yan Zhen composed himself and asked tentatively, “Who are you? Why are you in my dream, calling me ‘husband’?”

Zi Xunyi gazed at Yan Zhen, sighed softly, then forced a faint smile, stepped forward, and took his hands, saying reassuringly, “Don’t be afraid, husband. I mean you no harm. I am your future wife, the one who loves you most.”

Yan Zhen frowned. “Even if you say so, I can’t believe you.”

Zi Xunyi pondered for a moment, then waved her hand. The grass beneath them came alive, weaving itself into a chair. Vines extended upwards, attaching to the branches of the tree, forming a two-seater swing.

This being a dream, Yan Zhen could also manipulate things with his Spiritual Power, but he couldn’t create something so intricate yet.

“I understand your feelings, husband. Please sit down, and allow me to explain everything.”

Zi Xunyi gently pushed Yan Zhen towards the swing, making him sit down, then she sat beside him.

Yan Zhen felt inexplicably nervous. The fragrance emanating from the beauty beside him was even more captivating than the flowers. Even through their clothes, he could feel her body heat, stirring his desires.

—The soul is indeed more sensitive than the body. Just being close to her is enough to arouse me, even after all my… experience. I wonder how my second future wife feels?

Yan Zhen discreetly observed Zi Xunyi’s expression and saw a faint blush on her cheeks, her amethyst eyes shimmering, clearly affected as well.

—Then why are you sitting so close?

To avoid embarrassment, even in a dream, Yan Zhen shifted slightly, creating some distance between them.

However, Zi Xunyi, blushing, moved closer again, pressing against him, seemingly enjoying the sensation of their spiritual connection.

Yan Zhen moved again, and Zi Xunyi followed, until he had nowhere left to go. He gave up and said, “Excuse me, beautiful sister, could you not sit so close to me?”

“Not beautiful sister, but ‘Xunyi’,” Zi Xunyi blinked, her long eyelashes fluttering like butterfly wings. “You can also call me ‘Zi Ji’ or ‘Zi Fei,’ but I prefer my husband to call me by my nickname, ‘Xun’er’.”

—Ahem, that last one is from a different story.

“I’ll stick with ‘Miss Xunyi’,” Yan Zhen said, wiping a bead of sweat from his forehead. “Miss Xunyi, what do you mean by ‘future wife’?”

—Do you also have a script?

[Ding! Friendly reminder: She does not.]

—Tsk, system, stop eavesdropping on my thoughts. Go away!

[Understood.]

Yan Zhen dismissed the system interface, looking at Zi Xunyi, who said seriously, “What I’m about to say might be difficult to believe, husband, but I swear, every word is true. If I utter a single lie…”

She paused, her reddish-purple eyes fixed on Yan Zhen, as if saying, “Aren’t you going to stop me from making such a serious oath?”

After a long moment of eye contact, Yan Zhen looked away, embarrassed. “Just say it. I’ll judge for myself.”

Zi Xunyi said slowly, “I am reborn. Over a year ago, I was reborn from a future time, retaining my memories from my past life.”

Yan Zhen was stunned.

—Reborn? Aren’t transmigration and rebirth exclusive to the protagonist? Are you the protagonist, or am I? Don’t steal my role, sister, uh, I mean, wife!

Zi Xunyi continued, “If you don’t believe me, husband, I can tell you some secrets to prove I’m not lying. For example, your name is Yan Zhen, your soul transmigrated from a distant time to this Mystic Heaven Continent, and you were reborn as the Young City Lord of Martial Tang City in the Gallo Kingdom. You’re a transmigrator—am I right?”

Yan Zhen was silent for a moment, then nodded, thinking this scenario felt familiar.

Zi Xunyi smiled faintly. “Also, your master is Chen Xi from the Star God Clan. She should still be trapped within the Fire Refining Starry Sky, right? And you should have already met Sister Cai Lian, even been… intimate with her. In the future, I will marry you along with Sister Cai Lian, each of us bearing you a daughter. Sister Cai Lian’s child will be called Yan Yan, nicknamed Yan’er, and our child will be called Yan Lingji, nicknamed Ling’er. That name was decided after you and I discussed it.”

Zi Xunyi’s expression darkened, her brows furrowing.

Seeing her expression, Yan Zhen felt a pang of sympathy and asked, “What happened to Ling’er?”

Zi Xunyi sighed softly. “For some reason, Ling’er was reborn with me, but she hasn’t been born yet in this time. There’s no body to house her consciousness, so she can only reside in the dreamscape I created. She was fine at first, but she gradually weakened, and now… she’s about to disappear.”

“What?!” Yan Zhen immediately thought of Cai Lian and Yan Yan and asked, “Why didn’t you let her stay in your sea of consciousness?”

Zi Xunyi shook her head, her expression dejected. “I’m sorry, husband. It’s my fault. Even though I was reborn, I-I haven’t fully integrated with my current self. I can’t control my body.”

Yan Zhen mentally displayed a question mark: “?”

13 Coaxing One After Another

Beautiful Master had never kissed him so suddenly and passionately before.

Their intimacy had always been the formal “dual cultivation.”

This kiss was different. Although not intense, it was filled with affection.

Yan Zhen opened his mouth, responding to the kiss.

When the kiss ended, both of them were flushed, gazing at each other, slightly breathless.

“Master, will you marry me?”

Chen Xi smiled faintly. “I’ve said before that everything of Master’s is yours, Zhen’er. As long as you wish it, I’ll do everything I can to fulfill your desires, including becoming your wife.”

Yan Zhen frowned slightly, dissatisfied with her response. “Are you just… indulging me, Master?”

“Silly child.” Chen Xi patted his head and said shyly, “Master has always loved you, not just as a disciple, but also… as a man.”

“Really?”

“Of course. When has Master ever lied to you?”

“Mm.” Yan Zhen scratched his cheek, looking at Beautiful Master’s stunning face, his heart filled with passion. “Master, I want another kiss~”

Chen Xi smiled indulgently and offered her lips.

…

Within the Fire Refining Starry Sky, stars burned silently, illuminating a corner of the darkness.

Between the celestial bodies was a vast plaza, surrounded by towering pillars like mountains, with an ancient altar at the center.

A stone bed rose from the altar’s surface, surrounded by pink curtains that concealed the scene within.

Yan Zhen lay on the bed, his head resting on Beautiful Master’s leg, his eyes fixed on her as she removed her silver hairpin, letting her silky white hair cascade down her back. She then untied her belt, slowly lowering her black dress to reveal her smooth shoulders and delicate collarbone.

Noticing her disciple’s gaze, Chen Xi blushed and said coyly, “Zhen’er, don’t look at Master like that.”

Despite her words, she didn’t cover his eyes as she usually did but endured her shyness, allowing him to admire her.

Yan Zhen stared for a while before closing his eyes obediently.

Chen Xi adored her disciple’s playful behavior. She reached out from within her wide sleeves, her snow-white arm gently supporting his head, positioning him perfectly for… easy access. Her other hand stealthily moved downwards, gently grasping and soothing his arousal.

Her rosy nipple entered his mouth, the sweet and rich taste filling his senses, leaving him completely satisfied. His hand became restless, reaching for her other breast.

Chen Xi blushed faintly, gazing at her disciple’s fair face, her eyes overflowing with affection. She let out soft moans as he continued his playful actions.

Yan Zhen felt like he was enveloped in tenderness, everything around him soft, fragrant, and sweet, making him completely lose himself in the sensation.

“Master…”

“It’s alright. Master can handle it all.”

“Mm…”

“There, there, Zhen’er. Be good~”

…

Emerging from the Fire Refining Starry Sky, Yan Zhen felt lightheaded, as if he might float away.

Hee hee hee, Beautiful Master agreed to marry him! Yay!

He had always admired Beautiful Master, but to avoid disrupting the plot, he had to hide his feelings. Now, he had finally confessed, and as long as he continued playing his role, he could marry her and reach the peak of his life!

—Wait, I can’t keep thinking about this, or the system will peek into my thoughts and give me a warning.

Yan Zhen quickly imagined himself as a salted fish, basking in the sun on the beach.

[…]

[Ding! Friendly reminder: Please continue to play the role of the protagonist and follow the script. Otherwise, the consequences will be dire.]

—I know, I know. Even for their sake, I’ll continue playing my role. I won’t let this world collapse.

[It’s good that the host understands.]

—No matter what, Beautiful Master is important to me. That won’t change… Anyway, the next key plot point is the conflict between the East and West Districts, right? There are still many days until then. Let me act freely until then.

[Goodbye, host. Mwah~]

—The “mwah” is unnecessary!

Having dealt with the not-so-smart system, Yan Zhen felt relieved, no longer worried about being greeted by a warning screen the moment he opened his eyes.

Looking around, he realized he was still near Yu Heaven Pavilion. He quickly opened his communication talisman and sent a message to Instructor Yu Xuan, saying he had returned to the dormitory and that she could find him there if needed.

Instructor Yu Xuan quickly replied.

[Cool Summer Night, Daylily After Rain: Is Master Chen Xi angry?]
[Yan of Fire, Zhen of Innocence: No, don’t worry, she agreed.]
[Cool Summer Night, Daylily After Rain: Really? That’s great!]
[Yan of Fire, Zhen of Innocence: Now it’s just a matter of your family. We’ll see in a couple of days.]
[Cool Summer Night, Daylily After Rain: Yes! My little man is unexpectedly reliable~]

Exchanging sweet nothings, he returned to the East District dormitory.

He took out his key card and opened the door to room number two. The door to room number one next door opened first, and Huangfu Wenqing walked out. Seeing Yan Zhen, she immediately pulled him inside.

Yan Zhen closed his own door and followed her into room number one.

“Gone for an entire night, returning only at noon the next day.” Huangfu Wenqing glared at him, displeased. “Did you… do that with them again?”

Yan Zhen quickly waved his hand. “No, all four of them are advancing in their cultivation.”

“Advancing… then you were with Instructor Yu Xuan?” Huangfu Wenqing’s lips curled downwards. “She seems to enjoy… licking you~”

Yan Zhen felt awkward, unsure how to respond, so he changed the subject. “Wenqing, have you been staying in your room all this time?”

Huangfu Wenqing nodded. “Yes, as soon as I go out, strangers try to talk to me. It’s annoying. It’s better to stay in my room and cultivate.”

“That’s no good. You should take advantage of the time before the semester starts to explore and familiarize yourself with the environment.”

“Will you accompany me?”

“Sure.”

“R-really?”

“Yes, let’s go now. We’ll have lunch at the dining hall first, then walk around.”

Seeing the smile return to Huangfu Wenqing’s face, Yan Zhen was relieved. He took her hand and left the dormitory with her, heading towards the dining hall.

After lunch, they strolled around until nightfall, then returned to their respective rooms to cultivate.

After cultivating, Yan Zhen took a quick bath, lay on the bed, took out his communication talisman, and saw that the four girls had all sent messages to the group chat, announcing their successful advancements.

Yan Zhen sent a “Congratulations” message and chatted with them for a while before putting away the talisman, turning off the lights, and going to sleep.

Late at night, amidst the silence, Yan Zhen had that lavender field dream again…

12 A Marriage Proposal to Beautiful Master

With a ripple of spatial energy, Yan Zhen appeared on the altar. Before his vision cleared, he heard Beautiful Master’s voice: “…Don’t worry, Instructor Yu Xuan, Zhen’er is here.”

Yan Zhen focused and saw Beautiful Master meditating as usual, while Instructor Yu Xuan rushed towards him.

“Yan Zhen! Are you alright?”

She checked him over, clearly worried that his reckless younger aunt had hurt him.

Yan Zhen shook his head. “I’m fine, Instructor. The Dean and Head Instructor wouldn’t actually hurt me.”

“My aunt wouldn’t, but my younger aunt might.” Instructor Yu Xuan sighed. “She can be impulsive and reckless sometimes.”

Yan Zhen inwardly agreed. The Dean was the most talented of the three Yu sisters but also the most impulsive, almost like a “berserker.” The Yu family relied heavily on her two older sisters.

“My aunt said she would assess my mother’s attitude first, then arrange for us to meet.”

Hearing him refer to Shui Bailan as “aunt” and Yu Qing as “mother,” Instructor Yu Xuan’s heart swelled with happiness and shyness, feeling that everything was worth it. Then, she suddenly realized something and exclaimed, “Wait, Yan Zhen, are you… going to meet my mother with me?”

“Yes,” Yan Zhen said seriously. “Otherwise, if you go back alone, you’ll definitely be punished.”

“But…”

“No buts! I’ll do everything I can to protect the people I love. I won’t allow anyone to harm you, even if they’re your family.”

Yan Zhen’s firm words almost melted Instructor Yu Xuan’s heart. She gazed at him lovingly.

“Okay, I’ll listen to you~”

“—Ahem!”

A cough broke the intimate atmosphere, bringing them back to reality. Instructor Yu Xuan blushed, and Yan Zhen scratched his head awkwardly.

Chen Xi’s expression and tone were calm. “Instructor Yu Xuan, if there’s nothing else, you should leave.”

Before Instructor Yu Xuan could respond, Chen Xi teleported her out.

“Come here, Zhen’er.”

Yan Zhen’s scalp tingled, but he obediently walked over and knelt before Beautiful Master, curling up into a ball.

“Master, let me explain…”

Chen Xi said impassively, “Explain in Master’s arms.”

Huh? Yan Zhen was stunned, then he felt a force pulling him into Beautiful Master’s embrace, his face buried in her ample bosom.

The familiar softness and fragrance didn’t calm him but made him even more nervous.

Yan Zhen tried to look up at Beautiful Master’s expression, but she pushed his face back against her cleavage.

“Master…”

“Speak. Master is listening.”

Yan Zhen felt Beautiful Master’s arms around his waist, one hand holding the back of his head, as if restraining him for punishment.

He didn’t dare to move, nestling against her chest, and confessed, “Instructor Yu Xuan and I are together.”

Chen Xi gently stroked his hair. “Since when?”

“We officially confirmed our relationship after returning from the desert.”

“So, you were already… close before you left?”

“Mm-hmm.”

Chen Xi fell silent.

Yan Zhen swallowed nervously. After a while, Beautiful Master asked, “Did you initiate it, or did she?”

Yan Zhen blinked. “Instructor Yu Xuan has always taken care of me. I initially thought it was just her being a caring instructor, but gradually, I realized it was more than that…”

“Then why did you accept her feelings?” Chen Xi’s voice was tinged with sadness. “Is Master not good enough?”

“No, Master is wonderful. It’s me… I’m too greedy.” Yan Zhen nuzzled against her soft breasts and confessed, “Even though I have such a wonderful Master, I couldn’t resist Instructor’s gentleness. I’m not a good disciple. I’ve disappointed you, Master. I’m sorry.”

Hearing her precious disciple’s self-reproach, Chen Xi’s heart softened. She gently cupped his face.

“Master doesn’t allow you to talk about yourself like that. No matter what, you’re Master’s best disciple, my greatest pride. You’re my only disciple, and I also want to be your only one. Do you understand?”

Yan Zhen looked at Beautiful Master’s exquisite face, seeing the affection in her eyes.

“Master…”

“Master isn’t blaming you, but… I also have selfish desires.” Chen Xi bit her lip and said shyly, “I want to hold a unique place in your heart, a place no one else can compare to, whether it’s Yun Xiu, Jiu Youyue, the Serpent Queen, or Yu Xuan. They all have to come second. Master will always be first.”

“Master is the first in my heart!” With sudden courage, Yan Zhen wrapped his arms around Beautiful Master’s slender waist, a stubborn look on his blushing face. “Master is not only my teacher, but also my first love and the one who took my virginity. You’re also… my dual cultivation partner. I wouldn’t have grown this strong without you, Master. You’re the most important person to me!”

Chen Xi’s heart was deeply touched.

“Zhen’er, are you telling the truth? About the first love and all…”

“Yes. Master is so beautiful. I was captivated by you the moment I saw you. Then, not only did you accept me as your disciple and teach me Mystic Skills, but you even sacrificed yourself to help me refine the Extreme Flame, always so gentle and caring. I’ve liked you for a long time, Master.”

“Zhen’er~”

After a pause, Yan Zhen whispered, “I want to marry Master in the future. Will you agree?”

“Eh? Zhen’er, w-what did you say?” Chen Xi’s eyes widened in surprise, then with joy. “Master didn’t hear clearly. Could you say that again?”

Yan Zhen repeated shyly, “I-I just… want Master to be my Dao companion, to be with you forever, officially.”

Chen Xi gasped, tears of joy welling up in her eyes. Finally, the words she had longed to hear in her previous life, he had finally said them.

Unable to contain her smile, she asked, her voice filled with happiness and shyness, “Zhen’er, are you proposing to Master?”

Yan Zhen blushed deeply but nodded, looking at Beautiful Master expectantly, awaiting her answer.

“Aren’t you afraid of what others will say? Aren’t you afraid that Yun Xiu and the others won’t accept it?”

“I’m not afraid. Nothing is more important than Master.”

Chen Xi giggled, covering her mouth, losing her usual composure.

Yan Zhen’s heart began to race, worried that she might reject him.

“Master… mm?”

Just as he looked up, Beautiful Master kissed him.