Category: They All Want to Be My Female Lead

5 Continuing the Act After Showing Off

Bu Luo felt dizzy, heavily falling to the ground. He looked at Yan Zhen with a sideways glance, wanting to say something, but saw Yan Zhen’s foot stepping down, perfectly blocking his mouth.

“Mmmmph–”

Bu Luo was furious, but had no strength to fight back. Soon, he couldn’t hold on anymore and passed out with his eyes rolled back.

The four underlings were stunned by this sudden scene. When they came back to their senses and were about to rescue Bu Luo, they were frightened by the pressure emanating from Yan Zhen and didn’t dare to move.

After more than half a month of cultivation, Yan Zhen was already a 5-star Mystic Scholar. Coupled with the power of the Gold and Silver Fire fused into his mystic power, with a turn of his technique, his pressure was enough to suppress Mystic Masters, let alone the few of them who were mere 2-star or 3-star Mystic Scholars.

“You, you let go of Brother Bu!”

Feeling that Bu Luo had stopped moving, Yan Zhen released his foot and casually kicked him away. Then, as if nothing had happened, he continued eating peanuts.

The four underlings hurriedly helped Bu Luo up and vigorously shook his body.

“Brother Bu, wake up.”

Bu Luo struggled to open his eyes and raised his hand to point at Yan Zhen, seeming to want to say some harsh words.

Yan Zhen didn’t even look at them, treating them like air.

Seeing Yan Zhen’s indifferent face, both Mi Xue’er and Yan Meng’er’s hearts trembled. Memories from their previous lives surged in their minds, perfectly overlapping with him at this moment.

–Cousin/Little Brother Yan Zhen is so cool!

Yan Ruyu was also secretly delighted. The feeling of being protected by him made her a bit infatuated, but then she became worried.

Food is Heaven was the business of the Yu family in Silver Moon City. Those who caused trouble would all be punished by the Yu family.

Sure enough, the manager of the restaurant quickly brought people over. Seeing the bleeding Bu Luo and the broken corner of the table, his face was as gloomy as water.

“Causing trouble in my Food is Heaven, aren’t you being too presumptuous?”

Yan Zhen wasn’t the least bit flustered, because he wasn’t done showing off yet. “I’ll compensate for this table.”

“Hmph, breaking the rules of my Food is Heaven isn’t a problem that can be settled with compensation!” The manager said coldly, “Someone, take them down and tie them up at the entrance for public humiliation.”

Two 6-star Mystic Scholar guards stepped forward and said in a muffled voice, “Are you going to come quietly or do we have to make a move?”

“I advise you not to resist.”

Yan Ruyu was about to speak, but was stopped by Yan Zhen.

“A mere restaurant putting on airs.”

He stood up and looked at the middle-aged manager, his eyes full of disdain. He swiped his storage ring and took out the rarely used waist plaque, lightly shaking it. “Yan Zhen, Young Lord of Martial Tang City, direct great-grandson of Marquis Yan Lie, a pure noble. If you want to capture me, you need the Silver Moon City Lord or the commander of the city guards to personally give the order. Is a mere restaurant qualified? If you dare to make a move first, even if I kill you later, it would be in self-defense.”

However, the middle-aged manager didn’t buy it at all and sneered, “What noble? In Silver Moon City, the Yu family are the nobles – attack!”

Hearing the order, the two guards boldly made their move.

Yan Zhen curled his lips. His mystic power fused with the Gold and Silver Fire took the form of flames, gathering on his fists.

Eight Extremes Explosion, both fists striking out simultaneously!

The two 6-star Mystic Scholar guards stubbornly clashed fists with Yan Zhen.

However, the gap in their mystic power and techniques was too big. The finger bones of these guard brothers were instantly shattered by Yan Zhen’s extreme flame mystic power. Their entire arms twisted and deformed, flying out together and falling to the ground, howling in pain.

Bu Luo and his four underlings were so scared that their eyes nearly popped out. With just one clash, two 6-star Mystic Scholars were crippled. This kid was actually so strong!?

Yan Zhen loosened his fists and looked at the middle-aged manager at his leisure, saying indifferently, “Openly violating the kingdom’s laws, injuring a true noble with a commoner’s identity. If I kill you now, your corpses will be fed to the dogs.”

Feudal kingdoms were so terrifying.

The middle-aged manager originally thought he could easily capture Yan Zhen and humiliate him in public to establish the Yu family’s authority. He didn’t expect Yan Zhen to be so strong at such a young age that even two 6-star guards were no match for him.

This was a bonafide young genius. Coupled with his noble status, how could he afford to provoke him?

Hearing Yan Zhen’s words, the middle-aged manager broke out in a cold sweat and hurriedly begged for forgiveness, “Young Lord Yan, please forgive me. This little one failed to recognize Mount Tai. I hope you can overlook it.”

Yan Zhen naturally wouldn’t really kill anyone.

This move was to offend the Yu family behind Food is Heaven, laying the groundwork for the Yu family’s young master to target him later. Although the system’s performance requirements didn’t mention it, Yan Zhen still took the initiative to complete it.

He withdrew his mystic power and said indifferently, “I came to eat, not to cause trouble. It’s just that some people don’t know what’s good for them… Hurry up and serve the dishes. We’ll leave after we’re full.”

“Yes, yes, thank you for your magnanimity, Young Lord Yan. This little one will have someone bring the dishes up right away.”

Hearing that Yan Zhen had no intention of pursuing the matter further, the middle-aged manager breathed a sigh of relief and turned his head to coldly glare at Bu Luo and the others.

After eating, Yan Zhen left the money for the meal and compensation, and left the restaurant with the three girls.

As for Bu Luo and his underlings, they were tied to a stone pillar next to the restaurant for public humiliation.

For the young and impulsive students, this kind of spiritual humiliation was sometimes harder for them to endure than physical pain.

“Little Brother Yan Zhen was so cool just now. He actually subdued that hateful Bu Luo with one move and even defeated the 6-star guards of Food is Heaven. It’s my first time seeing someone cause trouble in Food is Heaven and still walk away unscathed.”

Mi Xue’er appeared very excited. Yan Meng’er proudly said beside her, “Cousin Yan Zhen can defeat even 7-star Mystic Scholars in three rounds, let alone mere 6-stars.”

“7-star Mystic Scholar?”

“It was Liu Xing.”

Yan Ruyu mentioned. Mi Xue’er was surprised, “It was him?! Wow, Little Brother Yan Zhen, you even won against Liu Xing. What’s your actual cultivation level?”

Yan Zhen didn’t hide it and stretched out his five fingers to indicate.

“Only 5-star? Are 5-stars this strong?” Mi Xue’er looked Yan Zhen up and down, even starting to touch him, pinching his wrists and shoulders. “I really can’t tell. Little Brother Yan Zhen is also a great expert. I almost let you slip away. Fortunately, my eyes are sharp and I kept you here. From now on, you’ll be the protector of us three beauties, how about it?”

Yan Zhen rubbed his nose. “If it’s within my ability.”

“Very good, from now on, I, Mi Xue’er, will also have a big shot backing me in the academy. Let’s see if those bitches still dare to gossip about me!”

With that said, Mi Xue’er actually stretched out her arm and put it on Yan Zhen’s shoulder, looking like good buddies, appearing very intimate.

Yan Zhen frowned, thinking that Mi Xue’er seemed much more enthusiastic than described in the script. He hoped she wouldn’t be like his silly cousin, always adding some weird scenes.

Yan Meng’er also sensed something was off, but quickly thought that after her rebirth, some things had indeed changed. For example, before rebirth, Yan Zhen didn’t live with them, but in this life, they were housemates. So it should be normal for Sister Xue’er to be a bit more enthusiastic.

Yan Ruyu didn’t have much feeling about it. After all, this was Mi Xue’er’s personality. She would make intimate gestures towards people she was close to.

Only Mi Xue’er’s heart was pounding like a fox that had stolen a chicken, secretly delighted.

–I, I touched his shoulder! It’s so solid and makes me feel so safe!

(‘▽\`)ノ

4 No One Follows the Script, Huh?

Five people came in total, all with frivolous looks on their faces, clearly not well-behaved students.

The one walking in front was a bald man with earrings, his hands in his pockets, with a cocky expression, looking like a gang leader of hooligans.

Seeing them coming over, Yan Ruyu immediately stopped laughing and her beautiful face sank.

However, Mi Xue’er and Yan Meng’er were looking forward to it, thinking that this guy had indeed come to cause trouble like in their previous life, waiting for Cousin Yan Zhen/Little Brother Yan Zhen’s highlight moment.

Yan Zhen, who was familiar with the script, also knew the other party’s identity.

This person’s name was Bu Luo, with a cultivation level of a 5-star Mystic Scholar. Although he always put on the air of a gang leader and brought his underlings to hang around outside the academy, in the academy, he was someone else’s underling.

Bu Luo’s boss was one of the three strongest people in the Mystic Academy, the young master of the Silver Moon City Lord’s Mansion, “Lan Ke”.

Lan Ke liked Yan Ruyu and regarded her as his forbidden woman, not allowing other men to get too close to her. Whoever dared to disobey his will would suffer his retaliation.

Previously, a male student had disregarded this rule and publicly confessed to Yan Ruyu. The next day, he was beaten up on the dueling stage, his legs crippled, and he couldn’t get out of bed for two months.

As Lan Ke’s underling, Bu Luo saw Yan Ruyu sitting so intimately with an unfamiliar male student and decided to issue a warning.

Yan Zhen had seen this kind of worn-out routine countless times and already had a clear plan on how to act. He ate the appetizers while waiting for the other party to make things difficult.

[Ding! Key plot begins]

[Current plot – Chapter 50: Beating Up Senior]

[Performance requirement: Trample the hooligan senior under your feet within three rounds, hitting his face at least once]

[Completion: 0%]

“Oh ho, isn’t this Sister-in-law Ruyu? What a coincidence to run into you here.”

Bu Luo walked to the table and said in a frivolous tone, “When did you return to school? You didn’t even inform me so I could notify Boss Lan Ke.”

The other party’s form of address made Yan Ruyu’s expression change. She subconsciously glanced at Yan Zhen, saw his expressionless face, and felt slightly relieved.

“Who’s your sister-in-law? Bu Luo, I’ve warned you many times. If you dare to call me that again, I’ll see you on the dueling stage!”

“You say that, but you’re the woman Boss Lan Ke has his eyes on, so aren’t you my sister-in-law?” Bu Luo grinned. “Besides, on the dueling stage, it’s not certain who will win or lose.”

Yan Ruyu slammed the table and angrily stood up. “I have no relationship with Lan Ke whatsoever! No matter how much you spread rumors, I won’t be with him! Tell him to give up on that idea!”

“Our Boss Lan Ke is quite good. You’re the campus belle, he’s the campus hunk, a perfect match!”

“If you think he’s so good, then you go be with him yourself.”

Yan Ruyu sat back down on her chair.

“Hey, saying that kind of thing is no fun.” Bu Luo pursed his lips, his gaze falling on Yan Zhen. “You don’t like a masculine man like Boss Lan Ke, but you like this kind of baby-faced pretty boy?”

“I…” Yan Ruyu paused, then gritted her teeth, enduring the shyness in her heart. She hugged Yan Zhen’s arm and said loudly, “That’s right, I like him!”

Yan Zhen was stunned.

It was different from the script again! Here, Yan Ruyu’s line should have been “I don’t like anyone, no one should disturb my cultivation”.

With the resentful relationship between Yan Ruyu and him, and her proud and stubborn temperament, she definitely wouldn’t use Yan Zhen as a shield. How could she directly “confess” now? This wasn’t like her.

Mi Xue’er was also stunned.

How did her dead tsundere best friend become so brave, daring to take the opportunity to “confess” to Little Brother Yan Zhen? She remembered that in her previous life, she didn’t say it like this and even denied it.

On the other hand, Yan Meng’er secretly expressed approval, thinking that her elder cousin was gradually becoming more useful.

Bu Luo was also surprised by Yan Ruyu’s bold words and actions, and his expression soon turned ugly.

In his view, Yan Ruyu’s action was simply putting a green hat on his boss.

If Boss Lan Ke found out, he might even take it out on him.

“Sister-in-law Ruyu, doing this is meaningless and will only harm this pretty boy. You know Boss Lan Ke’s rules.”

“You dare to lay a hand on him, try it?”

Yan Ruyu hugged Yan Zhen’s arm, seeing that he showed no intention of refusing at all. Strands of joy welled up in her heart, so she hugged him even tighter, completely ignoring Bu Luo’s threat.

More than half a month ago at the Dragon Night Arena, the 7-star Mystic Scholar Liu Xing was beaten into a dead dog by Yan Zhen in just three rounds. After more than half a month, Yan Zhen’s strength must have improved again, reaching a level that she found hard to estimate.

She was certain that unless someone from the Nine Stars List made a move, there weren’t many in the academy who could win against Yan Zhen.

However, Bu Luo thought that Yan Ruyu wanted to protect Yan Zhen and decided not to argue with her anymore. Instead, he said to Yan Zhen, “Boy, I don’t think I’ve seen you before. You must be a new student, right? Listen to my advice. Some women are not for you to touch. It’s best to be sensible and stay away voluntarily. Otherwise, when disaster strikes, no one can save you!”

Yan Zhen was originally eating salted fried peanuts with chopsticks. Bu Luo’s words almost made him spit out the peanuts.

When reading the text, it didn’t feel that way, but hearing someone say this kind of thing in person was really embarrassing.

Was this filming a rustic video? Something like “Dare to come to xx street, you won’t have a good time!” and such.

Staying with this kind of guy was too humiliating.

Yan Zhen tried hard to maintain his expression. He twirled the chopsticks between his fingers and coldly recited his lines, “I’ll count to three. Disappear from my sight immediately.”

“What did you say?” Bu Luo’s eyes widened, his expression gloomy. “Are you looking to die?”

“Three.”

Yan Zhen counted down, wondering why Mi Xue’er didn’t step in to help him stall for time and form a strong contrast for her subsequent shock.

He glanced at her and found that senior looking at him with shining eyes like a cat, as if expecting a good show to start.

“…”

Everyone’s not following the script, huh? He was really impressed. Fortunately, the villain was diligent.

Yan Zhen indifferently recited “Two”. Bu Luo laughed angrily, “It seems you’re refusing a toast only to be forced to drink a forfeit!”

He waved his hand, and four of his underlings immediately surrounded them, all with the cultivation of 2-star or 3-star Mystic Scholars, emitting a slight oppressive aura.

Yan Ruyu’s willow eyebrows shot up. “Bu Luo, are you tired of living, daring to make a move in Food is Heaven?”

Food is Heaven was the business of the second largest family in Silver Moon City. Even Lan Ke himself wouldn’t casually cause trouble here.

“I’m not stupid.” Bu Luo laughed coldly. “Of course, to teach a lesson to an ignorant fool like this, it has to be done in a deserted alley… Boy, come with us for a bit? Or are you going to hide behind a woman?”

“One.”

Yan Zhen recited the final countdown and finally turned his head to look at Bu Luo, a gold and silver dual-colored flame faintly burning in his pupils.

Bu Luo’s heart shook.

Before anyone could react, Yan Zhen’s hand shot out like lightning, grabbing Bu Luo’s head and forcefully pressing it down.

Bang!

Bu Luo’s forehead slammed hard against the solid wooden table, breaking off the corner. Wood splinters pierced his skin, leaving his forehead covered in blood.

3 The Advantage is Hers

Besides the hall, the main house had four independent rooms, two on the left and two on the right.

Yan Ruyu and Mi Xue’er lived in the two rooms on the left, while that Instructor Yu Xuan lived in the upper room on the right, leaving the remaining room for Yan Meng’er.

After settling in, Mi Xue’er returned to her room and closed the door.

Leaning against the door, the girl adjusted her breathing, trying to calm her inner excitement.

“Finally seeing him again, this isn’t a dream, it’s real, hehe…”

Mi Xue’er shyly covered her cheeks, hiding her infatuated expression.

She was a reincarnator.

In her previous life, Mi Xue’er had pretty much fallen in love with Yan Zhen at first sight.

First, his appearance was very much to her liking, then he displayed outstanding cultivation talent, and even heroically saved her in a crisis, so Mi Xue’er completely fell for him.

But just as she was preparing to pursue him, she accidentally discovered that her good friend Yan Ruyu had actually been secretly in love with Yan Zhen all along.

Moreover, Yan Ruyu didn’t dare to express her love at all, only silently watching over him, making one feel heartache for her.

The kind-hearted Mi Xue’er decided to hide her own feelings and cheer for her best friend’s love.

What Mi Xue’er didn’t expect was that Yan Ruyu was really too useless. No matter how much she assisted her, she couldn’t win over Yan Zhen, and their relationship didn’t get any closer.

Until Yan Zhen displayed his extraordinary talent and unprecedentedly graduated early in less than a year after enrollment, taking the lead to go to the Sacred Land Academy for further study.

Her best friend’s love didn’t come to fruition, and she herself had wasted nearly a year in vain.

Mi Xue’er was very regretful.

If she had known, she should have gone for it herself. Even if she didn’t succeed, it would have been a scar of youth to commemorate, not leaving her heart so empty.

So she decided to pursue Yan Zhen when she got to the Sacred Land Academy, even if she had to use seductive means to capture him.

However, after arriving at the Sacred Land Academy, she discovered that Yan Zhen had already completely pulled away from them.

He was no longer the naive boy who would blush at a few teasing words from her, but the most dazzling sun towering above the numerous geniuses, making one feel inferior.

Many girls in the academy with higher cultivation than her, better background than her, and even prettier than her were all madly infatuated with him. Mi Xue’er was nothing among them.

Although Yan Zhen’s attitude towards her was still as casual and peaceful as before, and he would still chat and laugh with her when they occasionally met, Mi Xue’er no longer had the courage to pursue him.

She finally gave up on her first love, just like Yan Ruyu, silently watching over him in the crowd until he disappeared from her sight.

Yan Zhen once again graduated early and entered the Azure Lotus Sacred Land after being favored by the elders.

Soon, he became the Azure Lotus Holy Son above tens of thousands of people, his name resounding far and wide.

Later on, he got married, inviting relatives and friends to attend the wedding banquet, including Mi Xue’er.

She sat in the guest seat, watching from afar as Yan Zhen bowed with his two brides, the sourness and regret deeply buried in her heart erupting.

If only she hadn’t chosen to yield back then, but had taken the initiative to attack…

She so wished to go back to the time when they first met.

She wanted to say to him loudly, “Little brother Yan Zhen, I’ve taken a liking to you. Hurry and come into my bowl!”

The girl stood on the pinnacle of the clouds, crying silently, and then the light of reincarnation enveloped her, bringing her back to the present.

Mi Xue’er took a deep breath and slowly exhaled, her red lips curling into a sly smile.

“Sorry ah, Ruyu. Since you’re so useless, let your sister replace you.”

Buying the mansion across the street in advance, forcing Yan Zhen to live with them, this was only the first step.

Next, she would use her real methods, definitely making the current Yan Zhen head over heels for her.

A thirty-something-year-old mature woman against a sixteen-year-old naive boy, the advantage was hers!

…

Yan Zhen changed maps right from the start and had a setback~

In the side room, Yan Zhen lazily lay on the bed and let out a long sigh.

Although the system could handle a certain degree of detail differences, he always felt uncomfortable.

“What if the butterfly effect is accidentally triggered… If a butterfly flaps its wings one more time, it might cause a storm in the future.”

[Ding! System warm reminder: The logic of a carefree novel is not that rigorous, and in terms of plot arrangement, there are rarely exquisite layouts where one thing leads to another. For non-key plot parts, the performance requirements are not strict. Please don’t be overly worried and affect your performance.]

Hearing the system say this, Yan Zhen recalled that there were indeed some inconsistencies in the script, and some places were too coincidental, a bit detached from reality, but for a carefree novel, these were just harmless flaws.

It seemed he had overthought.

Besides, it wasn’t that he performed badly, but that the person acting opposite him didn’t follow the routine.

After figuring it out, Yan Zhen’s mood became much more relaxed. He took a nap on the bed, and after hearing Mi Xue’er’s call, he got up and walked out of the room.

Mi Xue’er said she wanted to treat them to a meal at a restaurant to welcome them.

Yan Zhen had no objection.

The four of them left the mansion and came to a restaurant called “Food is Heaven”.

Just by hearing the name, one could tell that this restaurant was relatively down-to-earth. The students of the Mystic Academy all loved to eat here. From the second floor onwards, there were private rooms, and on the top floor, there were even more private and luxurious VIP rooms.

The first floor was suitable for the masses to eat, while the upper floors were suitable for young masters and misses to show off. The design was thoughtful.

Mi Xue’er was a little rich girl. With a wave of her little hand, she said she wanted to go to the top floor.

Yan Ruyu hurriedly stopped her, telling her not to waste money.

Yan Zhen thought that she would soon regret not getting a private room.

When a carefree novel’s protagonist first arrives in a foreign place and is invited to a restaurant for a meal, he either encounters an acquaintance to show off, or encounters someone looking for trouble to slap their face.

This time belonged to the latter, and it was even a monster attracted by Yan Ruyu.

The group went to the third floor and chose a relatively quiet corner room. Inside the room was a more modern-style booth, with two long benches with backrests sandwiching a table.

Yan Ruyu sat down first. Yan Zhen wanted to sit opposite her, but was pushed to sit beside Yan Ruyu by Yan Meng’er, who then sat on Yan Zhen’s other side.

Mi Xue’er looked at Yan Zhen sandwiched between Yan Ruyu and Yan Meng’er, then at herself with empty spaces on both sides, and said speechlessly, “Am I a bit superfluous?”

Yan Ruyu heard the meaning in her words, her cheeks slightly hot, and snorted, “You’re the one specifically paying, how could you be superfluous.”

Mi Xue’er instantly showed a resentful look.

Seeing this, Yan Meng’er immediately ran over to Mi Xue’er’s side.

“I’ll sit with Sister Xue’er.”

Mi Xue’er was greatly touched. “Meng’er is the best. Ruyu forgets old love when she has new love.”

“You’re the one who can talk.” Yan Ruyu tossed the menu in front of her. “Hurry up and order.”

“What does Meng’er want to eat?”

“Anything is fine for me. Ask Cousin.”

“Little brother Yan Zhen, you say it.”

“Bring more meat.”

“Boys just love to eat meat. Then I’ll order a few more for you. Ruyu?”

“Whatever.”

“You always say that. I really want to order a dish randomly cooked for you!”

After calling the waiter over to finish ordering, the four of them chatted while waiting.

It was mainly the three girls talking, while Yan Zhen listened.

Until a few boys wearing academy uniforms walked over.

2 She Predicted His Prediction

“But what?”

“–I appreciate Sister Xue’er’s kindness.” Yan Meng’er took over the conversation, “However, I don’t want to be separated from Cousin. I’ll pass on moving in.”

“Ah? Sister Meng’er, you want to live with little brother Yan Zhen?”

Yan Meng’er nodded vigorously and let out an “Mm”.

“You two have such a good relationship…” Mi Xue’er looked regretful, “That’s really a pity. I wanted to spend more time with you. It seems I can only make do with Ruyu keeping me company.”

Mi Xue’er leaned towards Yan Ruyu, but the latter heartlessly pushed her away.

“Hmph, no need for you to make do. I’m also planning to move out to take care of them.”

“Ah???”

Mi Xue’er instantly straightened her back, looking at Yan Ruyu with incomparable shock, like a pet about to be abandoned by its owner.

“Ruyu, you’re moving out?”

“Yes, they’re still young. How can I feel at ease letting them live by themselves? As the elder sister, naturally I have to take care of them.”

“No, don’t.” Mi Xue’er cried out pitifully, “If you leave, what’s the point of me living here? With only me and Instructor Yu Xuan left, it’s too scary.”

“What are you saying? The instructor is so gentle. How is it scary?” Yan Ruyu gave her best friend a side-eye, “Silly girl, if Instructor Yu Xuan hears you bad-mouthing her behind her back, you won’t be able to get away with it.”

Mi Xue’er hugged Yan Ruyu’s arm, “Anyway, don’t move out, Ruyu. Can’t you just let Meng’er and Yan Zhen both live here? You can take care of them and also save on expenses. Why do you still need to move?”

Yan Ruyu’s heart stirred, but she still shook her head, “It’s not very convenient for Yan Zhen to live here.”

“What’s inconvenient about it? Your cousin is naturally my cousin too. Living together is very normal.”

“Don’t forget about Instructor Yu Xuan. She definitely won’t agree to men and women living together.”

Mi Xue’er put her hands on her hips, like a fat tiger, and snorted, “This is my house. Whoever I want to let live here can live here!”

Yan Ruyu scoffed disdainfully, “I hope you have the same backbone in front of Instructor Yu Xuan.”

“Instructor Yu Xuan isn’t an unreasonable person.” Mi Xue’er shrank her head and pouted her red lips, “Look, the side room here is still empty. It’s just right for Yan Zhen to live in. The four of us girls will live in the main house. The two sides are quite separate, so there’s no need to worry about men and women being different.”

“This…”

Hearing her say that, Yan Ruyu was indeed tempted. She wanted to live with Yan Zhen but also didn’t want to abandon her best friend (now that there was a man). If everyone could live together, it would indeed be perfect.

Yan Meng’er asked in surprise, “Sister Xue’er, can Cousin really live here?”

Mi Xue’er nodded, “Absolutely.”

“Then Meng’er will also stay with Cousin?”

“More than welcome.”

“Yay~ Sister Xue’er, you’re so nice!”

Yan Meng’er hugged Mi Xue’er, and the two happily embraced each other.

Yan Ruyu watched them speechlessly.

Yan Zhen originally didn’t want to interrupt the girls’ conversation, but hearing matters related to him being discussed more and more absurdly, he couldn’t help it anymore.

“Wait a minute! I won’t live with you guys. I want to live alone.”

If he lived with them, wouldn’t that deviate from the script? Absolutely not!

“Oh my, little brother Yan Zhen is shy!” Mi Xue’er covered her mouth and laughed, “Living alone is so boring. Living with your elder sisters is more lively. If something happens, it’s also convenient to take care of each other.”

Yan Meng’er took Yan Zhen’s hand and gently persuaded, “That’s right, Cousin. Meng’er won’t feel at ease with you alone. Meng’er must follow Cousin. Does Cousin dislike Meng’er again?”

Yan Ruyu also put on the air of an elder sister, “Living is living, no matter where. Since Xue’er allows you to live here too, just stay. What’s with the fussing!”

Three against one, Yan Zhen’s momentum instantly fell behind.

Moreover, from a realistic perspective, what they said indeed made sense. If he insisted on refusing, it would seem a bit ungrateful.

However, this didn’t match the script. Yan Zhen definitely wouldn’t agree.

“Ahem, I’ll just live in the mansion across the street. It’s close to here, so we can take care of each other, and there’s no need to be on guard about men and women, making everyone uncomfortable.”

Mi Xue’er blinked, a hint of craftiness flashing in her eyes, “The mansion across the street is occupied. I just rented it to a few familiar junior sisters a few days ago.”

What? Yan Zhen was stunned. Wasn’t the mansion across the street the empty house he found a week later?

Moreover, the landlord was a round-looking older woman with a keyring hanging from her waist, clearly a professional landlady.

When renting the house, the landlady, seeing that he was handsome, even said she wanted to introduce her niece studying at the Mystic Academy to him.

When did it become Mi Xue’er’s house? And it was rented to someone else. Where would he live?!

“Sister Xue’er, the mansion across the street is also yours?”

Not only Yan Zhen, but Yan Ruyu and Yan Meng’er were also surprised. Yan Ruyu had lived here for more than a year and had never heard that her best friend had another mansion. Yan Meng’er found that this didn’t match her memories from the previous life.

“Yes~ My family’s main business is real estate, including renting out mansions. Half of the mansions on this street are my family’s.”

Yan Zhen remembered that the script did mention that the Mi family was in real estate.

After the Mystic Academy was established in Silver Moon City, it attracted people from all over to settle down and rent houses. The value of land and mansions in Silver Moon City soared, especially in the area close to the Mystic Academy.

The Mi family benefited from this and made a fortune, leaping from a second-rate family to one of the few major families in Silver Moon City.

Wait, could that landlady be Mi Xue’er’s aunt or something? And the niece she wanted to introduce was Mi Xue’er?

Tsk, as expected of the script. The arrangement of this plot was too damn coincidental!

The key was that it wasn’t explicitly stated and required the reader to fill in the blanks themselves, the so-called “little easter egg”.

No, now wasn’t the time to sigh.

The mansion across the street had already been rented to someone else. Should he go find another place to live or stay here?

Which option was more in line with the script… System!

[Ding! System’s warm reminder: As long as the host lives on the same street as the relevant characters, it will be enough to trigger the subsequent plot.]

So that’s how it is. Are these small details within the scope of the system’s repair ability?

“Sister Xue’er, does your family have any other empty houses for rent?”

“At this time, the empty houses in the North City District are all rented out, not a single one left. Little brother Yan Zhen, just live with us. No need to be shy. Ruyu and Meng’er are both your clansmen. With them around, are you afraid I’ll eat you?”

“Then… I’ll reluctantly accept.”

He could only agree for now.

If he couldn’t rent a house, it would greatly affect the development of subsequent plots.

Moreover, the side room was quite far from the main house. Once the doors were closed, they were separate from each other. The effect was almost the same as living across the street.

“That’s more like it.” Mi Xue’er patted Yan Zhen’s shoulder, looking like a big sister. “Then let’s go to the side room first and set it up for you.”

“Thank you.”

The three girls swiftly helped him tidy up the room. Just as they were about to leave, Yan Meng’er suddenly said, “This room is quite big. Why don’t I just stay with Cousin–ouch, Elder Sister, let go of me.”

Yan Ruyu expressionlessly dragged away her mischievous younger cousin.

Walking at the back, Mi Xue’er waved her little hand at Yan Zhen and even gave him a wink before closing the door for him.

“See you later~”

1 Good Girlfriend Mi Xue’er

Three days later, the Yan family’s ferry arrived on time at the pier of Silver Moon City.

Yan Zhen was the first to get off the boat. His feet, which had been floating for two days, finally stepped on solid ground, making him moved.

Sitting on a boat for a while, constantly swaying, was very interesting, but sitting on a boat for several days would make one feel sick from the swaying.

With the Mystic Academy about to start, people from all over the country were coming to Silver Moon City. The pier was bustling with activity, and everywhere you looked, it was all people.

For the convenience of movement, the Yan family group split into three routes, each led by a few senior students from the academy, and went to report to the Mystic Academy separately.

Yan Ruyu was responsible for Yan Meng’er and Yan Zhen.

The three of them left the pier, successfully passed the city gate inspection, and formally entered the city.

The Mystic Academy stood on a hilltop in the northern part of Silver Moon City. Standing on the street, one could look up and see the vermilion-colored arch in the distance.

Although it was difficult to see its appearance due to the obstruction of trees, a glimpse of its magnificent momentum could be seen from the partial view.

The three of them hailed a carriage, but the destination Yan Ruyu reported was not the Mystic Academy, but a certain mansion in the North City District.

Yan Zhen remembered that it was the place where Yan Ruyu lived, her best friend’s mansion. Also living together were their instructor, who had an extremely good relationship with the two of them, and of course, Yan Meng’er would be added after she enrolled.

The Mystic Academy provided room and board, but students could also find their own place to live outside.

Later, in order to facilitate the study of alchemy, Yan Zhen would also move out of the dormitory to live outside, and the house he found just happened to be opposite Yan Ruyu and the others.

After being a salted fish on the boat for two or three days, the plot was about to start developing again.

After arriving, Yan Zhen looked at the courtyard in front of him and recited his lines, “Where is this? Aren’t we going to report to the academy?”

Yan Ruyu paid the carriage driver before answering, “We’ll go in the afternoon. Let’s rest at my place first.”

“You live here? Not in the dormitory?” Yan Zhen pretended to recall, “I remember the Mystic Academy provides room and board, and the food and lodging fees are included in the tuition.”

“That’s right, but the dormitory is a double room. There will be many inconveniences. If conditions allow, it’s more comfortable to live outside the academy by yourself.” Yan Ruyu went forward and shook the door knocker, making a clanging sound. “Later, Meng’er will also live with me. I suggest you find a house as soon as possible. It will be difficult to find one if you’re late.”

Yan Zhen furrowed his brows, putting on an appearance of starting to consider.

Yan Meng’er suddenly interjected, “Elder Sister, how many rooms are there in this mansion?”

“Six rooms. Four in the main house and two in the side rooms.”

“There are still so many rooms. Wouldn’t it be good to let Cousin live with us? We are family, so even if we live together, we don’t have to worry about people gossiping.”

Yan Ruyu’s cheeks turned red. “Apart from me, there are also my friend and instructor in the mansion. How can we let a man live there?”

“Then let’s go and discuss it with them?”

Yan Meng’er rolled her eyes, a hint of craftiness flashing in them.

Yan Ruyu was shocked by her words.

“Meng’er, don’t mess around.”

“How am I? I just don’t want to be separated from Cousin.” Yan Meng’er hugged Yan Zhen’s arm tightly, saying pitifully, “If Cousin can’t live here, then I won’t live here either. Meng’er wants to live with Cousin.”

Yan Zhen had a headache, thinking that the silly sister was starting to add scenes again. They had just changed maps and she wasn’t following the script. He would spank her bottom hard later!

He definitely wouldn’t live with them. This was a xuanhuan novel without a female lead, not an urban harem novel. Where did the one-man, multi-woman cohabitation come from?

He put on a stern face and scolded, “Don’t talk nonsense, Meng’er. Men and women are different. I will find my own place to live. You should just obediently live with Elder Sister Ruyu.”

“Cousin~ It will be so lonely for you to live alone. Meng’er will accompany you.”

“…”

Yan Zhen was speechless.

Forget it, he wouldn’t pay attention to this silly sister who was adding scenes randomly. Fortunately, Elder Sister Ruyu was following the script.

However, what he didn’t know was that Yan Ruyu actually also wanted the three of them to live together, but she couldn’t explain it to her friend and instructor.

Even if she said it, there was no need to think about it. They definitely wouldn’t agree.

Otherwise, should she move out from here and find a place for three people?

While she was pondering, the sound of the door latch being pulled came from behind the gate, and the vermilion-colored door also opened wide. A beautiful girl wearing an academy uniform walked out from it.

The girl had a pear-shaped head, with neat bangs and fluffy curls. Her light brown hair was soft and shiny, perfectly complementing her pretty and charming jade-like face. Her eyes were a pale blue, like a clear lake.

Her figure was also excellent. Even though she was wearing a relatively loose academy uniform, her obvious feminine curves could still be seen.

It was Mi Xue’er, who was listed as the “campus belle” along with Yan Ruyu.

Seeing that the one knocking on the door was Yan Ruyu, a joyful expression suddenly appeared on Mi Xue’er’s beautiful face. She immediately threw herself into her arms and said with a whimper, “Ruyu, you’re finally back. I was so lonely staying here by myself~”

Yan Ruyu casually patted her best friend’s forehead. “Alright, alright, I brought people over. Be more restrained.”

“Huh? Why didn’t you say so earlier!”

Hearing this, Mi Xue’er quickly stopped complaining and got up from Yan Ruyu’s embrace. She swiftly adjusted to the demeanor of a young lady from a good family. Her beautiful eyes quickly swept over Yan Meng’er and Yan Zhen, and she said in surprise, “They are your cousin and younger cousin?”

“Let me introduce you. This is my younger cousin Meng’er, and that is my cousin Yan Zhen.”

“Ah, Ruyu, you’re so good-looking, and your cousin and younger cousin are also a handsome man and a beautiful woman.” Mi Xue’er waved her little hand at Yan Zhen and Yan Meng’er. “Hi, little junior schoolmates. I’m Mi Xue’er, Ruyu’s good girlfriend. Very nice to meet you.”

“Hello.”

Yan Zhen gave a simple response, but Yan Meng’er’s mouth was sweeter than candy.

“Hello, Sister Xue’er. You’re so pretty~”

“No way, Sister Meng’er, you’re even prettier. Your figure is so nice… Our Mystic Academy is probably going to have another golden flower added.”

After a round of commercial mutual flattery, the two girls instantly became familiar with each other.

After a long time, Mi Xue’er finally shifted her gaze back to Yan Zhen. A hint of strangeness flashed in her eyes but was quickly concealed.

“Little brother Yan Zhen, Ruyu often mentions you in front of me. You’re even more handsome than I imagined~”

Yan Ruyu immediately elbowed Mi Xue’er. “What nonsense are you talking about! When did I often mention him… I only occasionally mentioned him.”

“Ruyu, didn’t you often say that after successfully cultivating, you would teach little brother Yan Zhen a good lesson to avenge the spanking he gave you back then?”

Mi Xue’er tilted her head, with an innocent expression. Yan Ruyu’s face instantly turned red. “Mi Xue’er, are you trying to get yourself killed!”

“Oh no, don’t hit me, don’t hit me. I won’t say it anymore.”

The two girls made a scene, completely leaving no room for Yan Zhen to interject.

The corner of Yan Zhen’s mouth twitched slightly as he let them finish their commotion.

After the commotion, Mi Xue’er invited them to come in.

The three girls walked in the front, chattering about something, while Yan Zhen silently followed behind.

“Ruyu, when Sister Meng’er enrolls, she can live with us. There’s no need to find another place. There are still many empty rooms here.”

Mi Xue’er’s fondness for Yan Meng’er soared rapidly. From her words, it seemed like she already treated her as her own sister, being quite close.

Yan Ruyu was a bit troubled. “I originally planned to do that, but…”

53 Leaving the Newbie Village

After returning to his room, Yan Zhen still felt like he was floating, his whole body as limp as if his bones had softened.

Not only was it pleasurable, but his cultivation had also increased slightly – double the joy!

He had great respect and love for his beautiful master, so he had been enduring and allowing her to take the lead. But if this continued, he wouldn’t be able to hold back from “opposing his master”, and he wouldn’t be able to maintain the protagonist’s persona. Everything would be over!

Yan Zhen slapped his face hard to wake himself up from this gentle dream.

Even if he couldn’t endure it, he had to endure it.

His beautiful master had given herself to him to aid his cultivation. It contained her expectation for his future success. How could he focus on indecent thoughts?

Cannot be indecent.jpg(1)*

Yan Zhen rolled up in his blanket, closed his eyes, and quickly fell asleep.

What woke Yan Zhen up was Yan Meng’er. She ran over in a hurry and knocked on the door forcefully, pulling Yan Zhen out of his sleep in an instant.

“It’s really bad. Cousin Yan Zhen, Grandpa Patriarch has fallen ill.”

Hearing this news, Yan Zhen instantly woke up. Without even changing his clothes, he rushed to Yan Lie’s room.

Just as described in the script, after the Dragon Night Arena, Old Master Yan Lie would collapse due to an outbreak of his illness.

However, in the script, the Huangfu family’s forceful cancellation of the engagement caused Yan Lie to become so angry that it laid the groundwork for his illness to erupt.

In reality, the Huangfu family did not cancel the engagement, so Yan Lie had been perfectly fine until he suddenly collapsed now.

After Yan Lie collapsed, the three major families that had been defeated by Yan Zhen started to act up together again, trying to occupy the market area managed by the City Lord Mansion to obtain greater benefits.

Without Yan Lie, a half-step Mystic General, stationed there, the City Lord Mansion was only a bit stronger than any single family. It was simply difficult to resist the three families joining hands. They could only choose to concede while also inviting famous doctors from all over to come treat Yan Lie.

However, Yan Lie’s illness was an “old person’s illness” accumulated over many years. The difficulty of curing it was too great. Half a month passed without any improvement, and the situation was getting worse. Only the healing pills refined by a 4th-grade alchemist or above had a chance to cure him.

4th-grade alchemists were rare in the entire Gallo Kingdom. The City Lord Mansion simply couldn’t invite one.

On the other hand, the appetite of the three major families was growing bigger and bigger. They were trying to completely divide up the entire market area, seriously threatening the survival of the City Lord Mansion.

If this continued, Martial Tang City would be completely controlled by the three major families, and the City Lord Mansion would only exist in name.

At this critical juncture, Yan Zhen finally stepped forward. He took out a 4th-grade healing pill and cured Yan Lie.

The grandfather and grandson duo barged into the council hall and beat up the patriarchs of the three major families who had come to threaten the City Lord Mansion to concede the market area. They made them spit out all the benefits they had swallowed before, principal and interest, and also took a hefty cut from them. Only then was the matter temporarily settled.

Afterwards, it was no longer Yan Zhen’s business. Yan Lie would use his own means to slowly suppress the three major families, and even turn the three major families into two.

These were all matters for later.

[Ding! Congratulations to the host for completing the first stage of the plot…]

Hearing the system’s notification sound, Yan Zhen, who had been busy for nearly half a month, felt relieved.

He knew the method to treat Yan Lie and could ask his beautiful master to refine pills at any time, but the key was that he didn’t have the medicinal ingredients.

The 4th-grade healing pill needed to treat Yan Lie required a relatively rare 4th-grade main ingredient, and that main ingredient had to wait until the Gold and Jade Chamber of Commerce obtained it by chance before he could buy it.

He waited for nearly half a month, making him anxious to death, fearing that something unexpected would happen in the plot.

Fortunately, it ended smoothly. In the meantime, he had secretly given Yan Meng’er a Condensing Mystic Pill, allowing her to advance to the Mystic Scholar realm.

However, compared to the Yan Zhen in the script who had to raise money everywhere, his performance was actually considered easy.

What was puzzling was that the Gold and Jade Chamber of Commerce still wouldn’t take his money, even though what he wanted was a 4th-grade medicinal ingredient worth over a million.

It was too strange. When things were abnormal, there must be something strange going on!

Whether there was something strange or not wasn’t important. What was important was that it shouldn’t affect him developing the plot according to the script!

Claiming the stage rewards, Yan Zhen’s eyes lit up. In addition to the special trump card, there was actually a cultivation gift pack (alchemist version).

Indeed, after this incident, he realized the importance of “alchemy”. He asked his beautiful master to teach him pill refining, to become an alchemist. In the future, he would also learn tool refining, puppet refining, and so on.

Yan Zhen excitedly opened it and was surprised to find that it included an initial fund of 100 million crystal coins, a self-selected 1st-grade pill formula, a self-selected 1st-grade tool formula, and a scroll of Mystic Soul Technique!

“100 million crystal coins!?”

Yan Zhen gasped and his heart pounded.

Although an alchemist indeed burned more money than ordinary cultivation, he didn’t expect the initial funding to be ten times more.

Hugging the system interface in front of him, Yan Zhen pursed his lips and kissed it in a mess.

“System darling, mwah~~~”

[The system does not need the host’s kisses, only for the host to play the protagonist well and develop the plot correctly.]

“Okay, okay, no problem. Leave it to me.”

Yan Zhen patted his chest and made a promise.

After the incident came to an end, it was already early February, the day for the Mystic Academy in Silver Moon City to start.

On the pier, Yan Zhen, Yan Meng’er, Yan Ruyu, Yan Mo, Yan Xiaoxiao and other young members of the Yan family said goodbye to the elders in the mansion one after another, and then boarded the City Lord Mansion’s private ferry to Silver Moon City.

“Finally leaving the newbie village.”

Standing at the edge of the deck, looking at the vast canal surface, Yan Zhen couldn’t help but sigh.

There were a total of seven continents in the Mystical Heavenly Continent. The region where the Gallo Kingdom was located was called the “Jia Lan(Garlan) Continent”, with many countries and forces distributed. The leader was the “Azure Lotus Sacred Land”, whose existence was unique and supreme.

(Jiālán) can also be translated to “Azure Lotus”

Below the Azure Lotus Sacred Land was an institution for cultivating talents, called the “Sacred Land Academy”.

The Mystic Academies were branches of the Sacred Land Academy set up in various cities of various countries to screen for promising talents.

The Mystic Academy of the Gallo Kingdom was opened in Silver Moon City, which ranked third among the top ten cities.

Most of the teenagers under the age of twenty who had advanced to the Mystic Scholar realm in the country would go to the Silver Moon City Mystic Academy to enroll and receive three years of cultivation. If they could advance to the Mystic Master realm before graduation, they would obtain the qualifications to go to the Sacred Land Academy for further study.

The series of small conflicts in Martial Tang City was just a prologue. After entering the Mystic Academy, the story of this novel without a female lead would truly begin.

Upon reaching Silver Moon City, he should quickly meet the head shopkeeper of the Gold and Jade Chamber of Commerce who possessed vast wealth. She was a character who provided Yan Zhen with a lot of help in the early and middle stages of the story. Yan Zhen would later acknowledge her as an elder sister, and she could be said to be second only to his beautiful master in importance.

The scenes with her absolutely could not be performed badly.

“Cousin, what are you thinking about? So engrossed.”

Yan Meng’er once again clung to him like a little bird, never forgetting to act cute in front of him at any time.

Yan Zhen gradually got used to his cousin’s antics and was not as embarrassed as before. He casually responded, “Thinking about when we can arrive.”

“If nothing unexpected happens, it will take two days and two nights of sailing. If it rains, it will take some more time.” Yan Ruyu said indifferently while standing on his other side, “It’s best to go back and rest inside the cabin when there’s nothing to do. The boat is not like the land. It’s easy to catch a cold.”

“That’s right, Cousin. Let’s go back to the cabin and play cards. It just so happens there are three of us.”

“Okay.”

“The loser has to take off a piece of clothing.”

“?!”

End Of Volume 1

---

 

Cannot be indecent.jpg(1)*: 不可以瑟瑟.jpg(meme)

 

52 Is the Master Better or Are They Better

After returning to the City Lord’s Mansion, the three of them parted ways and returned to their respective rooms.

Lying on the bed, the first thing Yan Zhen did was enter the crystal space. He presented the rice balls he had secretly packed back, along with a few side dishes and a pot of fine wine, to his beautiful master.

“Sorry, Master. I’m back late.”

Chen Xi didn’t say anything. She picked up the bowl and scooped up a steaming hot, round rice ball with a spoon, taking a small bite.

After tasting it, she brought the spoon with more than half of the rice ball left to Yan Zhen’s face and said with a smile, “Eat this, and your master will forgive you.”

Uh.

Yan Zhen didn’t have any particular feelings about indirect kissing, but his beautiful master deliberately giving it to him to eat after biting it like this seemed a bit intentional.

When he was young, he had heard the elders say: If you eat someone’s saliva, you will listen to him (her). Could it be that his beautiful master was hinting at him, her “disobedient” disciple?

Yan Zhen had a sudden realization. He obediently lowered his head, gulped down more than half of the rice ball, then raised his little face, showing a “I’m super obedient” look.

Chen Xi’s heart was instantly struck by his cute, pleading gaze, causing 1000% critical damage. The bit of displeasure she had dissipated like smoke.

“Come and eat with your master, Zhen’er.”

“Oh~”

Although Yan Zhen had dual cultivated with his beautiful master, he wouldn’t become complacent because of it. As the saying goes, once a teacher, always a father (mother). He still maintained complete respect and love for his beautiful master.

This also perfectly matched the protagonist’s character setting.

Actually, just in terms of personality, Yan Zhen found that he was quite similar to the protagonist’s character in the script.

It was very likely that the system had chosen him to play the protagonist role precisely because of this.

[Hehe, the host is overthinking.]

–Hmph!

Yan Zhen ignored the system and focused on pouring wine for his beautiful master. However, he saw her lean closer, gently sniffing with her nose, and then casually saying, “Zhen’er, there’s a bit of fragrance on you. Which girl’s is it?”

Upon hearing this, Yan Zhen inexplicably felt a pang of guilt, as if he was a middle school student secretly dating and got caught red-handed by his parents.

“Reporting to Master, I went out to play with my elder and younger female cousins. It’s the scent from their bodies.”

“Only with your elder and younger female cousins?” Chen Xi’s eyes narrowed, her tone still casual. “Not with your elder and younger male cousins?”

Yan Zhen swallowed his saliva. “I don’t have a very good relationship with my male cousins.”

“Oh?”

“Because I used to suppress them too much, so when I fell on hard times three years ago, they ridiculed me ruthlessly in turn. Although it can’t be considered a big grudge, it’s basically impossible to be close again.”

“What about your female cousins? Is it because Zhen’er has once again displayed outstanding talent, so they all flocked to you one by one?”

“That’s not it either. They’re both quite nice. Meng’er even apologized to me, and Elder Sister Ruyu isn’t as fierce as before.”

Chen Xi finished the wine in her cup, two spots of pink blooming on her cheeks. She turned her head to look directly at Yan Zhen. “Then, is your master better, or are they better?”

Being stared at by his beautiful master’s clear eyes, Yan Zhen’s spirit lifted. He answered without hesitation, “Of course Master is better. Master is the best. No one can compare!”

His voice was loud and strong.

Hearing this, Chen Xi’s heart blossomed with joy. The lingering mellow taste of wine in her mouth seemed to turn sweet. The faint smile reappeared on the corners of her lips.

“Really?”

Yan Zhen declared loudly, “Absolutely! Because they took the initiative to invite me, that’s why I went out with them. Otherwise, I was planning to spend the whole day by Master’s side, diligently cultivating and making progress, to repay Master for her guidance!”

“Sweet talker.”

Chen Xi chided him with a sentence, but didn’t say anything more. She quietly drank the wine, eating little of the dishes.

Yan Zhen breathed a sigh of relief and hurriedly sat beside her to serve.

After eating, Chen Xi slowly stood up and said, “Zhen’er, let your master see your cultivation results from the past few months. Start with the Tai Chi Shock.”

Huh? He had already said such moving words, yet he still had to be drilled?

Yan Zhen felt aggrieved, but still gritted his teeth and agreed.

First was the Tai Chi Shock. Although Yan Zhen had already mastered the skill of utilizing subtle force and shocking force, he was still far inferior to his beautiful master. He was easily toyed with by her.

Next was the Eight Extremes Explosion. Yan Zhen could strike with triple force at most, but it was still easily resolved by his beautiful master. With one hand, she blocked his all-out punch.

Finally, it was fire control sparring. Yan Zhen manipulated the Gold and Silver Fire to attack Chen Xi, but the flames were instead controlled by Chen Xi, scorching him and making him howl.

After a round of drilling, Yan Zhen exhausted himself. He soaked in the medicinal soup in the large bathtub, sticking out his tongue and panting like a puppy.

Chen Xi stood behind Yan Zhen, rolled up her sleeves, revealing her snow-white wrists. Her jade-like hands picked up a wooden ladle and scooped up the medicinal soup, slowly pouring it on the swollen parts of his body. Her delicate fingers gently stroked, bringing Yan Zhen a soft comfort.

“It seems that Zhen’er has grasped everything your master taught quite well. Worthy of praise.”

“Hehe, thank you for Master’s compliment~”

“However, there’s one more thing. Zhen’er, have you practiced it with anyone?”

“What else is there?”

The Tai Chi Shock, Eight Extremes Explosion, Imperial Blaze Art, and Gold and Silver Fire were all “fire control related”. There was nothing else.

The Dao of Alchemy? He hadn’t even started learning it.

After advancing to the Mystic Scholar realm, he could begin learning alchemy. But it just so happened to be the New Year and the holidays, worshipping gods, visiting relatives and such. There was time, but it was relatively fragmented, not suitable for cultivation.

“It seems Zhen’er has forgotten.”

Chen Xi put down the wooden ladle. Her jade-like fingers pinched the knot of her waistband and gently pulled.

The black sleeved dress, without restraint, could hardly contain that graceful and voluptuous jade-like body, especially those excessively huge breasts. As soon as they were freed, they bounced out like rabbits, causing her collar to open wide. Then, the dress slid down her fragrant shoulders and pooled on the ground in layers.

Her face was slightly flushed, her eyes revealing a hint of desire, but her tone of speech remained as still as an ancient well.

“…There’s also a dual cultivation method for refining extreme flames that needs to be checked.”

What!?

Yan Zhen froze, the style of his face changing. He thought, the dual cultivation method also needs to be practiced and checked? How to practice and check it?

In a daze, two milk-colored arms hooked around his neck from behind, and at the same time, an incomparable softness tightly pressed against him.

It was a sensation completely different from usual, a warmth that could only be felt when skin touched skin.

Yan Zhen quickly realized what it was. His body stiffened, not daring to move.

“Master?”

“Zhen’er, your cultivation has advanced very quickly. I believe in less than a year, you will be able to ascend to the Mystic Scholar realm. At that time, you will need to refine another extreme flame to not delay your cultivation. Naturally, before that, you must completely master the dual cultivation method. Zhen’er, have you practiced with anyone?”

Chen Xi was still speaking in the tone of a master in a superior position. If it were any other time, Yan Zhen would definitely listen attentively. But at this moment, with his head sandwiched between two buns, he had no control.

“I, I haven’t. I forgot.”

“Hehe, then let your master practice with you~”

A hot and passionate body squeezed into the bathtub behind Yan Zhen, soaking in the scalding medicinal soup, and began the Secret Lesson.

51 Cousin Madly Assisting Elder Sister

“Cousin, where are we going to play next?”

“Let’s go eat something first, rest a bit, and then we’ll see about the fireworks in the evening.”

“Great, let’s go to ‘Eight Immortals Residence’ then. It’s a tall building.”

“What does Elder Sister Ruyu say?”

“Up to you guys~”

“Then let’s go…”

Having finished the role-playing at the Dragon Night Arena, what followed was a brief Lantern Festival activity. Although the script didn’t have specific descriptions, Yan Zhen still had to diligently complete this small plot.

The three of them went to the top floor of the Eight Immortals Residence, got the best private room, ordered a tableful of dishes, and started eating leisurely.

Yan Meng’er pulled the seats of the three of them very close, the chairs almost joining into a long bench.

She sat on Yan Zhen’s right side. One moment she would pick food for Yan Zhen, the next she would feed him, then she wanted him to feed her, and even licked clean the rice grains and oil stains on his mouth.

Yan Zhen was helpless. He could only try his best to satisfy her requests within the limits of not violating his character setting.

This made Yan Meng’er extremely happy. She was almost sticking to Yan Zhen’s body, her full breasts like ripe fruits rubbing against his arm inadvertently.

Seeing her cousin’s active advances, Yan Ruyu felt a bit embarrassed. But when Yan Zhen responded, she was very envious of that girl, thinking if she did the same, would she also be able to–

But Yan Ruyu only thought about it. She didn’t have the courage to do what Yan Meng’er did at all. Only when Yan Meng’er gave her a hint did Yan Ruyu suddenly say, “Yan Zhen, thank you for this morning.”

As she spoke, she picked up a large piece of meat and put it in Yan Zhen’s bowl, quickly withdrawing her chopsticks.

“This is a thank-you gift.”

Yan Zhen was a bit surprised, but still smiled slightly, “No need to be so polite. I was also doing it to uphold the City Lord Mansion’s reputation.”

Yan Ruyu’s mood instantly improved. A faint smile also appeared on the corner of her mouth. There was only one thought in her mind: He smiled at me…

Seeing her discouraged appearance, Yan Meng’er secretly rolled her eyes, thinking that her elder sister was really too useless. Her combat power wasn’t even five. How could she be her teammate?

Her eyes were quick and her hands were fast. She immediately picked the meat out of Yan Zhen’s bowl and stuffed it into her own mouth.

“I’ll eat this piece of meat. Elder Sister, pick another piece for Cousin Yan Zhen. Nom nom~”

“Meng’er!”

Yan Ruyu glared at her cousin in displeasure. Yan Meng’er had a silly smile on her face, but her eyes were desperately hinting: Feed him, feed him!

Yan Ruyu, who had originally wanted to reprimand her cousin, immediately understood her intention. Her heartbeat suddenly sped up. It took a while before she plucked up the courage, picked up her chopsticks, picked up another piece of meat, and passed it to Yan Zhen’s mouth with flushed cheeks.

“Eat, eat it.”

Yan Zhen was greatly surprised, suspecting whether Yan Ruyu was drunk. Otherwise, how could she feed him?

“I’ll do it myself.”

Yan Zhen politely refused. Yan Ruyu’s heart became anxious. She wanted to be fierce to him like usual, but before she could speak, she was glared at by Yan Meng’er. She hurriedly changed her words, “You quickly eat it directly, otherwise it will be snatched by Meng’er again.”

Yan Zhen glanced at Yan Meng’er. The latter blinked her limpid beautiful eyes and revealed a mischievous grin, as if saying “Meng’er is a vegetable-stealing little thief~”.

After a brief hesitation, Yan Zhen still took a bite of the meat Yan Ruyu was holding and quickly ate it.

After all, they were clansmen living under the same roof. They weren’t that distant. Occasionally making some intimate little gestures wouldn’t go against the protagonist’s character setting.

Yan Ruyu stared blankly at the side of Yan Zhen’s face as he chewed the meat with big bites. Her heart was filled with a strange sense of happiness, wanting to continue feeding him more.

No wonder Meng’er kept feeding and feeding, not getting tired of it at all. It was really so delightful.

“Elder Sister, Meng’er also wants you to feed me~”

Hearing Yan Meng’er suddenly acting coquettishly towards her, Yan Ruyu blinked. She casually picked up a fish slice that her cousin loved to eat, reached over Yan Zhen, and stuffed it into her mouth.

“Had enough?”

“Elder Sister is so nice~ Meng’er will also feed Elder Sister in return.”

Yan Ruyu raised her eyebrows, about to refuse. Suddenly, she saw Yan Meng’er hinting with her eyes again. In a daze, she ate the fish belly fed by her cousin and heard her say in a sweet voice, “Cousin Yan Zhen, Elder Sister just fed you meat. As a courtesy, you should also feed her back once, right?”

Eh? Yan Ruyu’s heart sped up again with these words. Her delicate jade face turned even redder. She nervously, shyly, yet expectantly looked at Yan Zhen.

Yan Zhen nodded very readily. He picked a large shrimp, peeled it, dipped it in sauce, and brought it to Yan Ruyu’s face, saying indifferently, “Here, courtesy in return.”

Looking at the fresh, plump shrimp meat and the fair, slender fingers in front of her, Yan Ruyu swallowed her saliva, not knowing which one she was craving for.

She wanted to eat, but felt it was too embarrassing.

While hesitating, she saw Yan Meng’er desperately signaling to her with her eyes, as if loudly cursing: Hurry up and eat, stupid elder sister!

Yan Ruyu bit her lip, closed her eyes, opened her red lips and bit forward, but unexpectedly bit Yan Zhen’s fingers as well. The latter quickly withdrew his hand in pain, looking at Yan Ruyu with some fear.

–Could this be her retaliation?

“My fingers are not edible.”

Yan Ruyu covered her small mouth with both hands, chewing like a hamster. Her cheeks were flushed red. Her eyes were innocent, as if apologizing and saying “I didn’t do it on purpose”.

Seeing this, Yan Meng’er finally smiled with relief. Although her elder sister’s combat power was only 5 now, she still had a lot of potential to be developed.

The meal lasted from dusk until nightfall. Fireworks occasionally rose into the sky, blooming splendidly in the dark night.

The three of them moved their chairs to the window, sipping warm yellow wine while admiring the fireworks and overlooking the streets.

Swimming dragons, flower lanterns, vendors, pedestrians… The lights of thousands of households illuminated the entire city. As far as the eye could see, it was all bustling and prosperous.

“Cousin, let’s go down and play too~”

“There are too many people. I don’t want to squeeze.”

“Oh come on, let’s go~ Elder Sister, you persuade Cousin too.”

“It’s only once a year. Just take a walk.”

“…Alright then.”

“Yay~”

The three of them left the restaurant and walked to the bustling street.

Yan Meng’er took Yan Zhen’s hand and let Yan Ruyu hold Yan Zhen’s other hand, saying it was to “prevent getting lost”.

Holding hands? This was too high-level for Yan Ruyu. She shrank back again, “I’ll just hold your hand, Meng’er.”

Yan Meng’er really wanted to give her useless elder sister a big mallet. “No way, Elder Sister. I have to hold Cousin’s hand with one hand and hold things with the other. I don’t have an extra hand to hold you.”

Yan Ruyu was at a loss for words. After a long time, she convinced herself and grabbed Yan Zhen’s wrist with one hand, lowering her head and not speaking with flushed cheeks.

She used a bit too much force unintentionally. Yan Zhen felt a bit of pain, thinking that this woman was indeed going to retaliate!

In order to avoid generating extra plot, he endured it and pretended nothing was wrong.

The three of them walked hand in hand, admiring the lanterns, guessing riddles, chasing swimming dragons, teasing dancing lions… laughing heartily.

Until it was almost midnight and the Lantern Festival was about to end, a grand fireworks display was simultaneously launched in various parts of the city.

Their hands still not released, the three of them stood by the riverbank, looking up.

With the bang bang bang of explosions in their ears and the colorful, beautiful fireworks reflected in their eyes round after round, their joyful, lively mood also gradually calmed down.

“Cousin.”

“Hmm?”

“Smooch~”

“…”

The sneak attack was successful. Yan Meng’er grinned and was overjoyed. Then she winked secretly at Yan Ruyu standing on Yan Zhen’s other side.

Meng’er took the lead. Elder Sister, you have to work hard too~

Yan Ruyu: “/(//o/ω/o//)/”.

50 Did You Learn It?

“—You’re planning to cripple me, aren’t you?”

Liu Xing, who was deep in thought, heard Yan Zhen’s words and his expression changed drastically. He was a bit frightened, feeling like his thoughts were completely exposed in Yan Zhen’s eyes. It was as if he was facing not a half-grown teenager, but an old senior many decades his senior.

“Young Master Yan Zhen really loves to joke. How could I do such a thing? It’s just that fists and feet have no eyes, so I hope Young Master Yan Zhen will be more careful.”

Yan Zhen nodded in agreement, “You’re right, fists and feet indeed have no eyes. Why don’t we set a lighter life-and-death condition? As long as we don’t go for the kill, nothing else matters.”

Off-stage, Yan Ruyu heard this and became anxious. She was about to say something but was stopped by Yan Meng’er.

Liu Xing was also stunned. He didn’t expect Yan Zhen to actively give him an opportunity. Wasn’t this a freebie?

He was secretly delighted but also grew wary, suspecting that Yan Zhen might be planning to play some trick.

For example, consuming a mystic pill that could temporarily boost mystic power or using an extremely powerful mystic tool. But these were all prohibited.

“Since Young Master Yan Zhen has said so, I naturally have no objections. However, the rules of the arena must be followed. First, no taking pills; second, no using mystic tools above second-grade; third, no using poison, insects, hidden weapons, or any other underhanded methods.”

Yan Zhen said indifferently, “The rules of my City Lord’s Mansion, of course I will follow them.”

Liu Xing was ecstatic in his heart. He secretly thought that Yan Zhen had been suppressed for too long and now that he had made a comeback, he was even more inflated than before, thinking he could fight a 7-star with just 4-star strength. He really didn’t know the immensity of heaven and earth!

Thinking of this, Liu Xing showed a sincere smile and cupped his fists, “Then please give me some good pointers, Young Master Yan Zhen.”

Yan Zhen slowly clenched his fists as mystic power circulated within him. A flicker of rising flame light appeared in his pupils. “I’ll only teach you for three rounds.”

An extremely frightening aura emanated from Yan Zhen. Liu Xing’s pupils constricted as he instinctively sensed danger.

In a daze, Yan Zhen had already closed in. A fist wrapped in flame-like mystic power rapidly enlarged in Liu Xing’s eyes.

The gale-force fist wind hit his face, carrying an intense heat as if it had blown out from a furnace.

In that instant, Liu Xing’s scalp went numb.

Condensing mystic power into a thin film, manifesting it outside the body, and even displaying the essence of flames – this was an ability only those at the Mystic Scholar realm and above possessed!

Was Yan Zhen a Mystic Scholar?

The answer was naturally no. It was Gold and Silver Fire.

The Gold and Silver Fire that specifically countered metal and stone type mystic tools!

The battle erupted.

In the first round, Yan Zhen used Gold and Silver Fire in conjunction with the Eight Extremes Explosion to shatter Liu Xing’s folding fan.

In the second round, Yan Zhen used Tai Chi Shock with high-heat mystic power to repel Liu Xing’s counterattack.

In the third round… Yan Zhen single-handedly grasped Liu Xing’s chin and suspended him in midair, gently asking, “Three rounds are over. Did you learn it?”

Liu Xing, with his chin clutched, couldn’t speak at all and only made gagging sounds.

“Still haven’t learned it? Forget it, I’ll teach you again.”

Yan Zhen flung him into the air. Before he could land, he punched Liu Xing in the stomach, then followed up with another shock, blasting him off the stage.

Liu Xing spat out a mouthful of blood in midair. After landing, he passed out like a dead fish, unable to get up again.

The spectators present were all dumbfounded. In three rounds, a 4-star Mystic Scholar had defeated a 7-star Mystic Scholar in a completely overwhelming manner, like a father beating his son.

Moreover, the flame mystic power Yan Zhen displayed was clearly something only Mystic Scholars possessed.

A fifteen-year-old Mystic Scholar? If Yan Zhen hadn’t had a three-year cultivation gap, it wouldn’t be impossible, but he had fallen.

Shock and confusion lingered in everyone’s hearts.

The City Lord Mansion’s steward, who was at the Mystic Scholar realm, had thought that if Yan Zhen was defeated, he would disregard the rules and protect him. But the result…

“Cousin is so awesome!”

In the silent arena, Yan Meng’er was the first to clap her little hands and cheer in praise.

Under her lead, the other spectators also came back to their senses and applauded vigorously.

Yan Zhen turned his head and flashed a smile at Yan Meng’er.

Yan Meng’er was instantly struck in the heart by this unexpected joy. Her eyes sparkled with love hearts, almost turning into a flower-dazed state on the spot.

Yan Ruyu stared at Yan Zhen with a complex gaze, not quite understanding how he had suddenly become so strong. During the New Year, they had fought to a draw, and he had only suppressed her by using despicable means.

Wait, could it be that during the New Year, he had intentionally held back against her?

No, not “held back”, but deliberately pretended to be weak, using despicable means as a matter of course, all for the purpose of spanking her.

From the start, the force he used didn’t feel like hitting at all, more like an eager touch.

It was really just as Meng’er said. Yan Zhen coveted her buttocks, no doubt about it!

Yan Ruyu’s breath caught. She felt like she had discovered an incredible truth. Her heart was half elated, half angry and embarrassed. The way she looked at Yan Zhen also became strange.

“Little pervert…” she mumbled in a small voice, seeming to despise him, but with a hint of complacency.

Yan Zhen also noticed Yan Ruyu’s weird gaze. He just felt it was inexplicable and made him uneasy. Could it be that she really wanted to take revenge on him?

Calming himself, he looked at the group of young masters from the three major families and asked, “Anyone else want to come up and fight me?”

The group of young masters instantly turned as pale as dirt. Even Liu Xing, a 7-star Mystic Scholar, had been instantly defeated by Yan Zhen, and it seemed like he didn’t use much effort. If they went up, they would just be giving free wins.

“Ao Ge? Do you want to try? I remember last time you wanted to have a one-on-one duel with me. Now no one will stop you.”

Ao Ge, who was called out, trembled at the knees and almost wet himself. He hurriedly squeezed out an ugly smile and said, “Young Master Yan Zhen is joking. I’m just a 7th level Mystic Disciple, how am I qualified to step onto the City Lord Mansion’s Dragon Night Arena?”

What the hell is with this “I”?!

Yan Zhen was disgusted by him and didn’t bother pretending anymore. His tone turned nasty, “Then why don’t you hurry up and scram? Standing there laying eggs?”

The group of young masters felt like they had received amnesty. They picked up Liu Xing and Liu Feng and slunk away.

Among them, Ao Ge ran the fastest.

“The troublemakers have run off. We can restart the attack and defense on the arena… Everyone, happy holidays and have fun.”

The spectators below responded one after another, and there were even bold young girls screaming, “The young City Lord is so handsome~”.

Yan Zhen cupped his fists before finally stepping off the stage, taking Yan Meng’er and Yan Ruyu to leave this place.

The sound of mission completion rang in his ears, and Yan Zhen claimed the reward.

“Special Trump Card – He Wants to Fight Ten”: Can only be activated when there is only one opponent. After activation, nine shadows with the strength of the main body will appear, making the opponent fight ten.

Yan Zhen was speechless. It was clearly shadow clones, yet it had to be given such a crude name!

Oh well, he would just keep it for now. Who knew, it might come in handy someday.

Looking at the dozen or so trump cards in the system backpack, Yan Zhen had the illusion that he was playing a card collecting game. Once he gathered twenty or thirty cards, he could start playing.

Slapping a dozen cards on the field and directly plotting the opponent to death would feel so good.

After putting away the cards, Yan Zhen took the two girls to visit the Dragon Night Arenas of the three major families. The three of them joined hands and forcibly broke through their Dragon Night Arenas until the stewards in charge pleaded for the three little ancestors to show mercy. Only then did they leave in high spirits.

49 The Dragon’s Night Arena (Continued)

Liu Xing chuckled, not falling for the provocation.

He had fought Yan Ruyu before when he was at the 3-star level and she was at 1-star. It should have been an overwhelming victory for him, but they ended up nearly evenly matched. Although he would have won if the fight continued, Yan Ruyu’s strength was clearly not something that could be measured by common sense.

Now, he was at the 7-star level, while Yan Ruyu, as expected, had reached the 5-star level.

Normally, the outcome between them would be clear. But Liu Xing still hoped to play it safe.

That’s why he specifically brought two 4-star helpers with him, to weaken Yan Ruyu’s stamina, so that when he took the stage, he could easily crush her.

The younger generation of the City Lord’s Mansion was lacking, and only Yan Ruyu was worthy of his attention. As long as he defeated Yan Ruyu, the Dragon Night Competition of the City Lord’s Mansion would naturally become his personal show.

As for Yan Zhen, the young City Lord who had stunned the city before? Even if he had recovered his cultivation, at most he would only be at the 8th or 9th level of the Mystic Disciple realm, or at best, a 1-star or 2-star Mystic Scholar – just a rookie, not even worthy of carrying his shoes.

Thinking of this, Liu Xing curled his lips and ordered Jia Lin of the Jia family to go up and weaken Yan Ruyu’s condition.

Jia Lin was reluctant to engage in such underhanded dealings, but this was a task assigned by the elders of his family, so he had no choice but to complete it.

Jia Lin was a 4-star Mystic Scholar, one of the two helpers Liu Xing had prepared.

He used all his strength to directly confront Yan Ruyu for more than a dozen rounds. When he felt it was about right, he immediately stopped and conceded defeat.

The next one up was someone from the Ao family, Ao Ge’s cousin, green-haired Ao Tuo.

Ao Tuo was also a 4-star Mystic Scholar. Again, he faced off against Yan Ruyu for more than ten rounds before quitting while he was ahead and slipping off the stage.

After fighting two battles in a row, Yan Ruyu was already panting a bit, her mystic power significantly depleted. She naturally understood Liu Xing’s purpose and immediately shouted angrily, “Coward! Do you dare to come up and fight me one-on-one?”

Liu Xing felt the timing was about right. With a slight smile, he said, “Since Sister Ruyu has warmly invited me, I’m naturally happy to accept.”

Closing his folding fan, he leaped onto the stage, landing opposite Yan Ruyu with the demeanor of a suave gentleman.

Yan Ruyu hated seeing such hypocritical appearances the most. Twisting her wrist, she rechanneled mystic power into her long sword, activating the runes on it. Then, with a kick of her feet, she shot out, her long sword aimed directly at her opponent’s face.

“Scattering Flower Sword!”

Yan Ruyu used a mystic technique right from the start, obviously wanting to end the fight quickly.

As long as she took down the strongest Liu Xing, the rest could be left to Yan Zhen and the other family members.

Liu Xing saw through her thoughts. Unhurriedly, he opened his folding fan, the runes on it also lighting up under the influence of mystic power, revealing it to be a first-grade mystic weapon as well.

The open fan blocked Yan Ruyu’s sword. Then, as the fan closed, it actually extinguished the red plum blossoms, and the fan ribs just happened to clamp down on the sword’s blade, preventing her from advancing.

Liu Xing swept out a leg. Yan Ruyu hurriedly raised her own leg to clash with his, then forcefully withdrew her sword and retreated several steps.

Liu Xing did not continue his pursuit, but looked at Yan Ruyu at his leisure.

He not only wanted to defeat her, but also humiliate her in public to avenge the grudge of her picking a fight with him before.

It was all Yan Ruyu’s fault. She had caused his reputation to plummet, making it difficult for him to pick up girls.

“Is this the extent of Sister Ruyu’s skill?”

“Then try this one!”

Yan Ruyu stroked her long sword, continuously infusing mystic power into it. The blade immediately emitted a fiery red light, rapidly heating up until it became like a branding iron before stopping.

Holding the branding iron-like long sword, Yan Ruyu attacked Liu Xing again, the tip of the sword blooming with fire-red flowers like winter plums.

“Scattering Flower Sword – Red Plum Style.”

Liu Xing narrowed his eyes, not daring to block the long sword with his folding fan again.

“Iron Fan Dance.”

The folding fan, wrapped in mystic power, flew out like a boomerang, striking the long sword Yan Ruyu had thrust out. As their mystic powers collided, the energy exploded violently.

Yan Ruyu retreated a few steps, while Liu Xing leisurely caught the folding fan that bounced back.

The difference in skill was clear.

“Any other moves? If not, it’s my turn!”

Liu Xing closed his folding fan and attacked. Yan Ruyu raised her mystic power again and met him with her sword.

Sword and fan clashed, sparks flying.

The two fought for more than a dozen rounds. Yan Ruyu, having battled three times in a row, gradually ran out of strength and was struck by Liu Xing’s fan on her sword.

The powerful force caused her weapon to fly out of her hand.

Yan Ruyu immediately retreated. This time, Liu Xing did not give her time to catch her breath and pursued her, stepping forward.

“Where are you running? Let’s fight some more!”

The folding fan opened, the ribs extending into iron spikes, the surface slashing at Yan Ruyu’s waist like a blade, intending to cut her belt and make her clothes fall off in public.

“Shameless!”

Yan Ruyu was both shocked and angry, trying to retreat further, but Liu Xing followed relentlessly.

Just as the folding fan was about to slash her belt, a figure flew out from the spectator seats and arrived between the two in a flash.

A hand clamped onto Liu Xing’s wrist like an iron vice, causing the spiked fan to stop a foot in front of Yan Ruyu, unable to advance an inch further.

It was Yan Zhen.

Both Liu Xing and Yan Ruyu looked at him in surprise, not quite understanding how he had gotten there in an instant.

They only heard Yan Zhen say, “Cousin, you go down first. I’ll fight him.”

Yan Ruyu still wanted to say something, but Yan Zhen gave her a sideways glance, and she immediately lost her temper.

“Be careful.”

After saying that, she glanced at Yan Zhen again and quickly stepped off the stage.

Liu Xing forcefully broke free of Yan Zhen’s restraint and distanced himself, saying coldly, “Young Master Yan Zhen, I didn’t expect you to make a comeback. It’s truly surprising.”

Yan Zhen slightly lifted his chin, looking extremely proud. “Then why don’t you roll off the stage?”

“Heh, the past is the past, the present is the present. After three years without cultivating, you can no longer be considered a prodigy. I advise Young Master Yan Zhen to take a good look at reality.”

“Doesn’t matter if I’m a prodigy or not. Anyway, I can still beat the crap out of you.”

“With your measly 1-star or 2-star strength?”

“Are you blind?”

Yan Zhen circulated his mystic power, the aura emanating from his body already approaching Yan Ruyu’s level of strength.

“3-star…no, 4-star Mystic Scholar?!” Liu Xing was dumbfounded. “You, how did you—”

To Liu Xing, a mere 4-star Mystic Scholar was nothing to be concerned about. But according to the intelligence he received, during the small competition held at the City Lord’s Mansion, Yan Zhen was only at the 8th or 9th level of the Mystic Disciple realm, barely defeating Yan Mo who was at the 9th level.

Less than two months had passed since the small competition. At most, he should have advanced to the 1-star level like Yan Mo; even 2-star would be overestimating him. But in reality…4-star???

Yan Ruyu was also very surprised. After all, during the New Year, Yan Zhen was still a 3-star Mystic Scholar. Ascending a star in less than half a month was a bit outrageous.

As for the other spectators, they were even more astonished, especially the people from the three major families.

Before coming, they hadn’t taken Yan Zhen seriously at all. Now, just in terms of cultivation level, he had already caught up to or even surpassed them?

Yan Zhen was only fifteen years old, while they were all over twenty.

After the shock, Liu Xing on the stage quickly calmed down.

This kid’s talent had fully recovered. If he was allowed to continue developing, in less than a year, he might be able to step on his head!

However, no matter how fast he advanced, he was currently only a 4-star Mystic Scholar, while he was a 7-star. The difference of three star levels was not something that could be easily crossed.

He might as well go all out and cripple him while he had the chance!