Category: They All Want to Be My Female Lead

 

For those who read chapters 26 and 27 before 05/11/24, I want to let you know that there was an error in the upload and another chapter was uploaded. It has now been corrected, so you can review the corrected chapter. Thank you and apologies.

Chapter 28: Master and Disciple Sparring

Compared to ‘Eight Extremes Explosive’, the ‘Grand Negation’ mystic technique was actually more suitable for Yan Zhen’s current Mystic Disciple cultivation level.

However, ‘Grand Negation’ emphasized subtly borrowing the opponent’s force to counter them and overcoming brawn with dexterity. The best way to teach it was through master-disciple sparring, providing guidance in actual combat situations that would involve frequent intimate physical contact.

In the previous life during this time, Chen Xi still harbored some wariness towards Yan Zhen and was unwilling to have too much contact with him, so she taught the more aggressive ‘Eight Extremes Explosive’ instead.

Cultivating ‘Eight Extremes Explosive’ only required a wooden dummy or large tree. One would circulate mystic energy into their fists and practice punching. Chen Xi merely needed to observe from the side, occasionally providing some pointers, without doing much else. The cultivation relied mainly on Yan Zhen’s own efforts.

But the previous life was the previous life, things were different now.

As a qualified master, she naturally should teach her disciple the best and most suitable mystic technique.

As for any frequent intimate physical contact, there was no need to avoid it. In fact, it was a good opportunity to deepen the bond between master and disciple.

On the altar in the crystal space, Yan Zhen clenched his fists and launched an attack towards the beautiful senior.

For ease of movement, Chen Xi changed into a practical outfit.

The tight-fitting dark violet battle attire accentuated her alluring curves, especially her exaggerated bust that seemed ready to burst out at any moment.

Her snow-white hair was simply tied back in a ponytail that swayed gently behind her hips.

The overall look exuded a different charm from her usual long robes and unbound hairstyle of a fairy-like maiden – more like a sporty elder sister next door.

Seeing Yan Zhen’s full-force attack, Chen Xi smiled faintly. Her jade hand gently extended, fluidly deflecting his ferocious punch while her right foot stepped out, striking Yan Zhen’s knee.

His leg buckled, immediately losing balance as he tumbled straight towards Chen Xi.

He felt a soft bounce before his entire face was buried in a fragrant ravine, nose and mouth tightly covered, temporarily unable to breathe.

Even Chen Xi couldn’t help feeling a bit flushed, but she didn’t dislike it. Instead, she hooked Yan Zhen’s neck with her arm in a chokehold-like position.

She had never been this intimate with him before. A sense of novelty, accomplishment, and happiness welled up inside, softening her voice, “In battle, stability is crucial. Don’t neglect your lower body, Zhen’er.”

Yan Zhen could only let out muffled sounds to indicate he understood.

“Again.”

Seeing this was enough, Chen Xi released him in time.

Yan Zhen extracted his small head from that oppressively snug ravine, his handsome face completely flushed red and breathing heavily.

After adjusting his breath, he attacked again, this time even using his family’s ‘Flame Palm’ mystic technique. His right palm radiated scorching heat like a red-hot iron plate, thinking this way the beautiful senior wouldn’t be able to casually touch his hand!

“Although a low-grade technique, your execution wasn’t bad, but sadly—”

Chen Xi somehow bypassed Yan Zhen’s ‘Flame Palm’, her jade-like hands precisely gripping his wrist. With a smooth upward lift and spin, her other hand supported his waist as she exerted force.

Yan Zhen felt he lost control of his body, rapidly spinning like a ballet dancer before collapsing softly into the beautiful senior’s embrace.

“—your movements were too rigid.”

Chen Xi lowered her head, meeting Yan Zhen’s upturned gaze. Her azure eyes faintly revealed a hint of doting affection.

Yan Zhen’s face reddened again.

The familiar soft, fragrant embrace – he had stumbled into it over twenty times these past two days. Each time was fleeting, leaving him with an itching urge to reciprocate the beautiful senior’s embrace.

But he couldn’t. His persona was that of a ruthless cultivator obsessed with progress, not a licentious disciple defying his master.

—Resist!

Moreover, for the sake of helping him quickly grasp ‘Grand Negation’, the aloof and chaste beautiful senior was enduring her discomfort with intimate contact. How could he have impure thoughts?

—Can’t let the beautiful senior’s efforts go to waste!

“Again!”

Yan Zhen shook off the fanciful notions, no longer lingering on the softness and fragrance behind him. He sprang up, putting distance between himself and the beautiful senior. Then, circulating the secrets of the ‘Mystic Body Technique’, he launched his third attack.

“Oh?”

Chen Xi immediately noticed the difference in Yan Zhen and became slightly more serious.

No matter how Yan Zhen attacked, Chen Xi could easily deflect his punches, dissipate his force, then draw him into her embrace to restrain, lock, or directly fling him for a hard fall.

Since constantly embracing him would seem too deliberate, Chen Xi would sometimes use normal counters to avoid arousing Yan Zhen’s suspicion.

After practicing the entire morning, Yan Zhen was battered all over and had endured several face-washings. He didn’t know whether to feel pain or joy as he lay sprawled on the ground, gasping for breath.

Since this was an interaction with the beautiful senior, the system did not allow directly skipping it, forcing him to diligently practice.

If cultivating ‘Eight Extremes Explosive’ according to the original script, it should have been skippable. Why was it changed to ‘Grand Negation’ instead?!

He thought the beautiful senior would be different from Yan Meng’Er and Huangfu Wenqing, not deviating from the script!

He turned his head to look at the beautiful senior beside him.

Chen Xi was igniting a colorful “starlight glazed flame” in her palm to concoct a medicinal solution for invigorating his blood and dispelling stasis.

After refining it, she poured the solution into a large bathtub filled with water, instantly causing the cool water to boil and turn semi-transparent greenish.

Chen Xi dipped her hand to test the temperature, finding it just right before turning to Yan Zhen, “Zhen’er, quickly get in and soak. Don’t let your qi and blood remain stagnant for too long.”

“Oh~”

Yan Zhen lazily pulled himself up, stripping off his clothes except for his trunk-patterned boxers before stepping into the large tub.

As his body sank into the hot medicated water, Yan Zhen exhaled deeply, feeling incredibly soothed.

Chen Xi did not avert her eyes. Instead, she stood by the tub, scooping water to rinse over Yan Zhen’s shoulders and neck.

“Zhen’er, these past two days you should have fully experienced the wonders of ‘Grand Negation’s’ dexterous force. Tomorrow we’ll officially begin practicing the ‘Grand Negation’ stances.”

“Yes, Senior~”

Yan Zhen submerged his mouth, blowing bubbles in the water.

Seeing this, Chen Xi calmly said, “What’s wrong, Zhen’er? Did you have something to say?”

“Um, it’s nothing much. I just wanted to know why Senior is teaching me ‘Grand Negation’.”

“You don’t want to learn it?”

“It’s not that I don’t want to learn it. I just prefer more aggressive mystic techniques. Although this is powerful, it doesn’t quite suit my combat style.”

“You’re just a little Mystic Disciple, what combat style do you have?”

Chen Xi flicked Yan Zhen’s forehead with her finger.

Yan Zhen shrank back, immediately covering it with his hand.

Seeing his adorable reaction, Chen Xi couldn’t help but smile fondly, gently caressing where she had flicked him.

“This master can certainly teach you more aggressive techniques, but don’t bite off more than you can chew. First master the basics of ‘Grand Negation’, then we’ll discuss further.”

“Oh, then I’ll work really hard to quickly grasp ‘Grand Negation’!”

—My silly disciple, no need to rush.

Chen Xi ruffled Yan Zhen’s hair, silently thinking to herself.

Chapter 27  Is there such a crafty mystic technique?

Yan Zhen released Yan Meng’Er and went forward to confront them.

It wasn’t just Yan Ming, but also a group of onlookers—no, a group of young men and women. They had originally followed Yan Meng’Er to check on the situation but heard her wailing loudly, so they angrily barged in.

After a barrage of verbal attacks, it escalated into a duel between Yan Zhen and Yan Ming, even though Yan Meng’Er tried to stop them.

This was exactly what Yan Zhen wanted. Yan Ming was only at the 6th level of Mystic Disciple cultivation. Yan Zhen was also at the 6th level, but he had learned the System-rewarded ‘Mystic Body Technique’, enabling a 6th level cultivator to battle a 7th level.

Of course, even without the ‘Mystic Body Technique’, Yan Zhen’s 6th level could easily crush Yan Ming’s, as he had experience at the 6th level since before age ten. His power control was more exquisite, and he also knew the family’s mystic technique, ‘Flame Palm’.

With the ‘Mystic Body Technique’, this battle was even more of a foregone conclusion. Within three moves, Yan Meng’Er’s cousin who came to watch the excitement with his peers was knocked down by Yan Zhen, leaving the group of his peers gasping in shock.

Soon, news of Yan Zhen’s restored talent and secretly advancing to the 6th level of Mystic Disciple spread throughout the entire Lord’s Manor.

In the evening, Yan Lie hurried to Yan Zhen’s small courtyard. As soon as he entered, he said, “Zhen’er, has your talent really recovered? Quickly come let grandpa take a look!”

Yan Zhen walked up to Yan Lie and opened his arms, allowing him to examine his cultivation.

When Yan Lie confirmed Yan Zhen’s 6th level of cultivation, he was emotionally overwhelmed, with tears flickering in his old eyes.

“The 6th level, not the 3rd, but the 6th! Zhen’er, you finally, finally… cough cough cough!”

Yan Zhen was startled and quickly patted the old man’s back to let him catch his breath.

Yan Lie recovered and looked at his grandson with relief, “The heavens have eyes! Grandpa always believed you would get better.”

Yan Zhen gave a slight smile and said sincerely, “Thank you, grandpa, for encouraging me these past three years, preventing me from giving up.”

Grandson and grandfather opened up to each other.

“You kid, were you hiding your cultivation level before? Grandpa still remembers you testing at the 3rd level just a month ago.”

“I didn’t hide it, grandpa. I practiced from the 3rd level to the 6th.”

“Wait, Zhen’er, you mean you jumped from the 3rd to the 6th level in just one month?”

“Yes.”

Hearing that Yan Zhen didn’t seem to be lying, the joyful expression on Yan Lie’s face faded as his gray eyebrows furrowed slightly.

“Advancing three levels in one month, even with your exceptional talent, is a bit exaggerated. It’s possibly related to your recovery from the bottleneck, but we still shouldn’t broadcast this to avoid others’ jealousy.”

Yan Zhen nodded calmly, “I understand, grandpa. I’m not a child anymore; such glory holds no appeal for me.”

“Mm, it seems this three-year bottleneck wasn’t all bad for you, Zhen’er. At least your temperament has been preliminarily cultivated.”

“Heh heh… Oh right grandpa, when will this year’s family minor competition start?”

“The family’s minor competition is in two months,” said Yan Lie, stroking his white beard. “Zhen’er, you’re currently at the 6th level of Mystic Disciple. To place in the top three, you’ll need at least the 7th level.”

In the Mystic Disciple realm, the 3rd to 4th level was one threshold, and the 6th to 7th level was the second threshold.

A Mystic Disciple at the 4th level had about twice the mystic energy of the 3rd level.

While a 7th level Mystic Disciple had over three times the mystic energy of a 6th level.

Without reaching the 7th level, one would essentially be hung up and beaten by those at the 7th level or above, even with mystic techniques learned.

“Don’t worry, grandpa. In less than a month, I’ll reach the 7th level of Mystic Disciple.”

“Ambitious, grandpa approves. The highest among the younger generation in the manor has reached the 9th level of Mystic Disciple – that great elder’s grandson, Yan Mo. Zhen’er, you must work hard and try to catch up to him next year.”

“I will, grandpa.”

According to the script, he didn’t need until next year – by year’s end, he could advance to the 9th level.

However, before that, Yan Zhen needed to defeat the 9th level Yan Mo in the family minor competition at the 8th level of cultivation.

So his current goal was to reach the 8th level within two months while also learning another top-tier mystic technique.

Back in his room, Yan Zhen eagerly entered the crystal space to see the beautiful senior, politely requesting to learn a powerful mystic technique.

Seeing his awkward demeanor, Chen Xi couldn’t help but feel amused, yet she still sternly said, “At the Mystic Disciple realm, emphasis is placed more on foundations. There’s no need to painstakingly learn powerful mystic techniques.”

Yan Zhen pleaded pitifully, “But senior, I have to participate in the minor competition in two months. Without a trump card mystic technique, it’ll be easy for me to be eliminated.”

Chen Xi didn’t agree immediately, stringing Yan Zhen along for a while as he begged and acted cute towards her.

The three years of setback allowed Yan Zhen to mature faster, rarely displaying such childish behavior.

Thus, to Chen Xi, every second of this was incredibly precious.

Outwardly pretending to be unmoved, inwardly she recorded every moment of Yan Zhen’s pleading cuteness. Once it felt sufficient, she “reluctantly” nodded.

“Very well, this master shall teach you a powerful mystic technique that can exert great might even at the Mystic Disciple realm.”

“Thank you, senior. What kind of mystic technique is it?”

Was it the ‘Eight Extremes Explosive’ skill, where punching the opponent would inflict secondary or even multiple bursts of mystic energy damage?

—Heh heh, this young master holds the script, no matter how beautiful the master is, she can’t sway my expectations!

Yet Chen Xi leisurely said, “This mystic technique is not offensive, leaning more towards using dexterous force to counter attacks. It’s called ‘Grand Negation’.”

—What? ‘Grand Negation’? Not ‘Eight Extremes Explosive’?

Yan Zhen was confused again. ‘Eight Extremes Explosive’ was one of the protagonist’s signature mystic techniques, used even until the Mystic King realm. What the heck was ‘Grand Negation’?

“Just explaining won’t help you understand. It’s better to experience it directly,” Chen Xi smiled faintly. “Come, Zhen’er, attack this master with full force. Don’t hold back.”

Suppressing the confusion in his heart, Yan Zhen followed Chen Xi’s instruction, circulating his mystic energy to throw a punch at her.

Chen Xi remained still, not even using her mystic energy. She merely extended her jade-like delicate hand, gently guiding Yan Zhen’s fist and leading it in a circular motion.

Yan Zhen felt his body spin uncontrollably before tumbling into the beautiful master’s embrace, completely restrained by her.

The back of his neck met extreme softness, as if pillowed by two white clouds, causing Yan Zhen to freeze up.

“How was that, Zhen’er?” The beautiful senior’s voice came from right beside his ear, extremely close. He could even feel her warm breath and faintly detect her elegant fragrance.

—It seemed he had been embraced by the beautiful senior!

So ‘Grand Negation’ was hugging the opponent? Was there really such a flirtatious mystic technique?

“Senior, I yield.”

However, Chen Xi showed no intention of releasing Yan Zhen. Her jade hand gripped his fist and raised it before his eyes.

“Do you know how this master restrained you?”

“No, this disciple doesn’t know.”

“It was dexterous force,” Chen Xi explained. “Forcefully countering force is brute tactics. Using the opponent’s force against them is true mastery. ‘Grand Negation’ uses dexterous force to redirect the opponent’s force – it’s a master-level mystic technique.”

“I see.”

“Alright, come here every day to spar with this master for two hours until you’ve learned this ‘Grand Negation’.”

Chen Xi’s lips curved in a faint, mischievous grin.

 

26. Is it okay not to take it off?

Following his beautiful master’s instructions, Yan Zhen came to the back mountain of the city lord’s mansion and found a place rarely visited. After clearing it out a bit, he made an empty area and had her set up a Gathering Profound Energy Formation, constructing a small cultivation paradise.

As the formation operated, the world energy from all around converged, forming a visible thin mist.

Gathering Profound Energy Formations also had levels of mastery. Being able to materialize the world energy here that was so thin showed how exquisite this formation was.

The key point was that this formation basically did not require any expensive materials, mainly relying on a clever utilization of the energy’s magnetic field.

For a full month, Yan Zhen cultivated here, each session lasting an entire day.

And his cultivation level smoothly advanced to Mystic Disciple 6th stage.

In one month, going from 3rd stage to 6th stage – such a cultivation speed was likely unrivaled in the entire Jialo Kingdom.

Even Chen Xi was surprised by Yan Zhen’s performance, because she remembered that in the previous life, Yan Zhen only advanced to 5th stage in a month.

For someone who had fully opened their Mystic Passes, advancing one stage per month with the help of the Gathering Profound Energy Formation was the normal standard. Advancing two stages in a month was extremely outstanding even among geniuses. Advancing three stages was quite absurd.

Yan Zhen also didn’t know why. He always chose to skip the cultivation plot developments with one click. After skipping, he discovered he was at 6th stage.

Now, not only the people around him, but even his own cultivation level had deviated from the script.

[Host need not worry. The gap between each Mystic Disciple stage is very small and does not really affect the plot.]

“Sigh, I have it rough. Even though I’m still a newbie actor, why do I have to go through things like temporary script additions and the personality collapse of opposing roles as soon as I debut…”

Yan Meng’er was still fine. The problem was Huangfu Wenqing.

Thinking of this fiancée, Yan Zhen got a big headache.

Although her amount of scenes was not very high, her significance was extraordinary.

But Huangfu Wenqing not only did not break off the engagement, she even formed a strange contract with him and said things similar to a love confession.

In any case, all aspects completely diverged from the script. Who knew what went wrong.

Fortunately, he forcibly rounded it off and brought the key two-year battle agreement back on track.

Although the agreed content was a bit different from the script, it was still acceptable.

For the two-year battle agreement, he first had to win.

After winning, he would find a way to make Huangfu Wenqing dislike him, like accidentally exposing that he had ambiguous relations with both her master and grand-master, or simply putting on the scoundrel face of “I’m going to have both master and disciple”.

That way, even if Huangfu Wenqing lost, she wouldn’t want to marry him. Yan Zhen would refuse to marry her in turn, conforming to the plot.

Yan Zhen was very satisfied with the plan he came up with. Stretching his body, he returned to the mansion.

Yan Meng’er was waiting in Yan Zhen’s courtyard as always. Seeing him, she immediately came to greet him.

“Cousin, you’re back. Meng’er stewed a medicinal porridge today. Eating it can relieve fatigue. Come try some, Cousin?”

Yan Zhen made an agreeing noise, pulled over a chair and sat like a big master. He saw a bowl, spoon and clay pot on the table before him.

Opening the pot lid, white steam wafted out. The fragrance of rice, herbs and meat mixed together, making one’s mouth water.

Yan Meng’er quickly filled a big bowl full of porridge for Yan Zhen, then sat to the side watching him eat with an expectant face.

Yan Zhen scooped a spoonful into his mouth, almost swallowing the spoon as well.

——This girl’s cooking skills were getting better and better. Moreover, the ingredients in the porridge seemed to be quite pricey.

“Cousin, is the taste okay?”

“It’s alright.”

“If Cousin likes it then drink more. There’s still plenty~”

“You eat too.”

“Meng’er already ate. This is specially for Cousin.”

After finishing the medicinal porridge, Yan Zhen put down the bowl and spoon and said to Yan Meng’er:

“Meng’er, you’ve been serving me for a month now. This month, your care for me has reached an omnipresent level, letting me live very comfortably. So, as agreed, I forgive you now.”

“Cousin, you…you really mean it?” Yan Meng’er was stunned at first, then wild with joy. Glistening tears involuntarily welled up in her beautiful eyes. “You really forgive Meng’er?”

“Of course it’s real.”

After all, it was understandable for Yan Meng’er to distance herself from him. She even apologized to him. Continuing to be angry would instead make him seem petty.

The script also wrote that one year after Yan Zhen recovered his talent, he started talking to Yan Meng’er again. Although it wasn’t to the degree of completely thawing the ice, it was just him not wanting to lose face.

Plus, Yan Meng’er not only took the initiative to apologize, but wholeheartedly served him, much more sensible than the Yan Meng’er in the script. Forgiving her a bit earlier was fine.

“Cousin forgave Meng’er, really forgave Meng’er. How wonderful, how wonderful, wuwuwu…”

Even though Yan Meng’er had lived two lives, she couldn’t help but cry at this moment, tears falling like scattered pearls.

Yan Zhen patted her head and comforted: “Alright, don’t cry. Looks like I bullied you.”

Hearing him say that, Yan Meng’er cried even harder. She threw herself into Yan Zhen’s embrace and hugged him tightly.

“Cousin, I’m sorry. Meng’er absolutely won’t treat you that way again. Meng’er already knows how painful it is to be distanced by an important person. Meng’er doesn’t want to experience that pain again. Meng’er wants to be together with Cousin forever!”

The maiden’s heartfelt confession slightly touched Yan Zhen.

Regarding the feelings between the cousins, the script only gave a simple description, so Yan Zhen didn’t have too deep an experience of it.

Until this moment.

——So this girl regretted it to this degree? Feels a bit like brother complex.

“Don’t say misleading things. Let the past stay in the past. Take off the collar on your neck, there’s no need to keep doing this.”

Yan Meng’er’s crying suddenly quieted. After a long while, she finally raised her crying kitten-like enchanting face from Yan Zhen’s embrace and weakly said:

“Is it okay not to take it off?”

Yan Zhen was stunned: “Huh?”

“Be-because, Meng’er said she would be Cousin Yan Zhen’s slave for life. Since it was said, it can’t be taken back. Otherwise wouldn’t Meng’er be a person who doesn’t keep her word?”

“That’s true, but don’t you feel the collar is uncomfortable? In all senses of the word.”

“This collar belongs to Cousin. As long as it’s Cousin’s, Meng’er won’t feel uncomfortable. Rather, there’s a meaning of…of a bond between you and me in it. Meng’er really likes it~”

“…”

——Cousins don’t need this kind of weird bond! This girl doesn’t really have a brother complex, right? Incest, yikes!

Just as he was about to properly educate his impure-minded cousin, an angry roar came from outside the courtyard:

“Yan Zhen, let go of Meng’er!”

This voice sounded a bit familiar. Seemed to be Yan Meng’er’s older cousin called “Yan Ming”?

Oh right, because he leveled up, cannon fodder villains would come to make trouble for him then get slapped in the face.

A common trope in the fantasy world. The system also prompted that this was a key plot for showing off and face-slapping.

[Current plot – Chapter 12: 6th stage vs 6th stage, the might of “Mystical Body Art”]

Chapter 25: Delicious Jujube Cakes

“You’ve already recovered?”

Huangfu Wenqing was very surprised, as this timing precisely matched when she had called off her engagement in her previous life.

“You’re not tricking me, are you?”

“No tricks, I’ve really recovered. I’ll be able to cultivate again soon,” Yan Zhen said confidently. “If you don’t cultivate seriously, maybe in less than two years I can catch up to you.”

Huangfu Wenqing naturally knew he could catch up, not just catch up but surpass her, making her taste complete defeat for the first time.

But she later also learned how much bitterness he had endured during those two years.

“Congratulations Yan Zhen, this is perfect timing for us to go cultivate at Cloud Heaven Palace together. With your talent, which should be even higher than mine, you’ll definitely be taken as a disciple by the Sect Master or other Palace Masters and receive the best guidance.”

“No, I’ve already taken a master. I’ll cultivate following my master, so I can’t go to Cloud Heaven Palace. My apologies.”

Yan Zhen could never go to Cloud Heaven Palace, or the storyline would deviate too extremely to ever get back on track.

“I see, since you’ve already taken a master, there’s nothing to be done.”

Huangfu Wenqing felt a bit disappointed, wondering if it was that senior Mystic Saint later on.

She knew Yan Zhen had a deeply caring master, even meeting her once, but wasn’t clear on exactly when Yan Zhen took her as a master.

That senior Mystic Saint was also an extraordinarily beautiful woman, not inferior to her own master…thinking of this, Huangfu Wenqing felt a twinge of jealousy.

“Was it your master who helped cure your physical ailment?”

“You could say that,” Yan Zhen smiled, thinking that his boundary deviation was actually that beautiful master’s doing. “I haven’t told anyone else about this yet, I hope you can keep it a secret for me.”

“Not even Yan Meng’er knows?”

“Nope.”

“So it’s just our secret?” Huangfu Wenqing felt delighted, quickly promising, “I’ll keep my lips tightly sealed!”

“Thank you. Would you like some snacks? I grabbed some on the way out.”

Yan Zhen took out a bag of honey jujube cakes from his storage ring pouch and offered it to Huangfu Wenqing, who blinked her eyes curiously.

“When did you grab these? I didn’t notice at all.”

“Don’t worry about the details.” Yan Zhen popped one into his mouth and started eating. “Very sweet and chewy, quite delicious. Want to try some?”

“Then you’ll have to feed me.”

Huangfu Wenqing tilted her head back slightly, opening her sandalwood mouth and looking up at Yan Zhen.

Such an expression somehow gave off a bewitching vibe.

Yan Zhen suddenly recalled how a few days ago she had also hugged his leg and made a similar gesture, nearly causing him to lose control.

Has this girl’s persona completely crumbled? Turning into a girl who unconsciously acts coquettish?

—Damn it, even if her persona crumbles, the main character’s persona can’t crumble too.

Yan Zhen pinched a honey jujube cake and shoved it into Huangfu Wenqing’s mouth without looking, accidentally pushing his fingers in too.

Just as he was about to withdraw his hand, she bit down on it lightly, giving it a gentle suck.

—Again?!

The wet, slippery sensation made his fingers tingle with numbness like an electric shock. Yan Zhen quickly pulled his hand back, pretending nothing had happened.

Huangfu Wenqing also acted as if nothing occurred, licking her lips after eating the cake and remarking that it was indeed quite good – though it wasn’t clear if she meant the cake or something else.

“May I have another one?”

—Of course, on the condition that you get it yourself instead of putting on that expression waiting to be fed!

Gritting his teeth, Yan Zhen fed her another cake, being very careful not to give Huangfu Wenqing a chance to bite his fingers this time.

Huangfu Wenqing felt a tinge of regret. After eating that one, she didn’t want any more, about to say “Let me feed you this time,” when she saw Yan Zhen quickly stash away the remaining cakes.

—Precise prediction!

“…Stingy,” the girl muttered, but quickly spotted another opportunity, saying, “Yan Zhen, you have some cake crumbs at the corner of your mouth. Let me wipe it clean for you.”

“No need, I can do it myself.”

Yan Zhen dismissed it, about to casually wipe it with his sleeve when—

Smack! His hand was slapped down before it could move, Huangfu Wenqing restraining it.

His other hand was also pulled by her.

Both hands controlled.

Huangfu Wenqing smiled sweetly, “Let me wipe it for you.”

A bead of cold sweat formed on Yan Zhen’s brow.

“Well…I suppose that’s fine, but you can’t really wipe it like this, right? Why don’t you let go of my hands first?”

Before he could finish speaking, Huangfu Wenqing’s face suddenly moved in close, her pink tongue softly grazing across his lips and leaving a moist trail.

“There, all clean now.”

“/(//o/ω/o//)/”

“Ah, still not clean enough, one more time.”

“???”

“I can taste a hint of sweetness, the honey jujube cakes are really delicious.”

“……”

“Tomorrow we’ll be separating, who knows when we’ll see each other again. One more time isn’t too much to ask, is it?”

“!!!!”

When their lips parted, Yan Zhen’s head was already spinning feverishly. Seeing the now satisfied Huangfu Wenqing straddling his lap, arms looped around his neck, he could barely hold it together anymore.

Or maybe he was holding it together pretty well.

Huangfu Wenqing leaned against Yan Zhen’s shoulder, her cheek gently nuzzling his neck as she murmured to herself:

“Yan Zhen, I’ll be waiting for you. This time, I won’t lose again. For my master and for myself, I have to defeat you.”

Neither of them noticed the pair of pink eyes glaring intently at them from the bushes in the darkness, the pupils constricted to lemon slits.

Damn that vile Huangfu Wenqing, shamelessly sneaking around using her status as his fiance. She hadn’t even gotten to kiss his cheek before, at most giving it a light peck.

Wasn’t that wicked woman supposed to show up to call off the engagement? Why has she become like this instead? Not only imitating her by becoming a slave to her cousin, but now kissing him too.

Could it be that Huangfu Wenqing has also been reborn like her?

It was a possibility.

Seeing their intimate poses, Yan Meng’er bit down hard on her handkerchief, ripping it apart.

—I’m so jealous!

The next morning, the Huangfu family departed.

Before leaving, Huangfu Xiong gave Yan Zhen a parting gift – a protective jade talisman.

It contained the power of a Mystic King, able to withstand an all-out strike from a one-star Mystic King or below.

“Kid, this old man doesn’t know what you’re trying to do. But since you haven’t given up, then work hard. If you can truly defeat Wenqing in two years, this old man will look upon you with new eyes.”

“Thank you, Grandfather Huangfu.”

“What Grandfather Huangfu? Just call me Grandpa!”

“Er…thank you, Grandpa.”

“Hahahahaha!”

Thus, Huangfu Xiong left feeling very satisfied.

Huangfu Wenqing also waved at him, turning back every few steps as she departed.

In the crowd, Yan Meng’er was enthusiastically waving too, thinking that vile woman had finally left.

It’s all that wicked woman’s fault for interfering, preventing her from getting close to her cousin brother these past couple days.

Now that the wicked woman is gone, she can try again!

“Cousin brother~ Meng’er has cooked a pot of red bean soup. Would you like to come over and drink some later?”

—Cousin brother really enjoys red bean soup, let me start by capturing his stomach!

However, Yan Zhen refused:

“Sorry, Meng’er, I have something to attend to. I’ll have the soup later tonight.”

After saying that, Yan Zhen hurried off, leaving Yan Meng’er crying in her spot.

—Cousin brother…Meng’er won’t give up!

Chapter 24: The Moonlight is Truly Beautiful Tonight

 

“It’s very simple. If within two years, my cultivation can catch up to Wenqing’s, then the matter of me marrying into her family will be canceled, and she will marry into the Yan family instead. If I cannot catch up, then I will obediently become Cloud Heaven Palace’s live-in son-in-law.”

 

That’s right, it’s the “Two-Year Agreement”!

 

The plot of calling off the marriage was only 50% completed, with the remaining 50% being to propose the Two-Year Agreement, so Yan Zhen took this opportunity to do so!

 

—Didn’t expect that, did you? No matter how bizarrely the plot deviates from the rails, this young master can forcibly steer it back on course.

 

—Hey, that’s what professionalism is!

 

Yan Zhen felt immensely proud inwardly.

 

Hearing this, Huangfu Xiong’s brow furrowed deeper as he turned to glance at Yan Lie.

 

Yan Lie spread his hands in a “what can I do” gesture.

 

Beside them, Huangfuu Wenqing abruptly stood up and quickly declared, “I agree to this agreement.”

 

Of course, she would definitely profit from this agreement whether she won or lost, so what was there to refuse?

 

It seemed becoming Yan Zhen’s willing slave was quite useful. The life-or-death Two-Year Agreement from her previous life had now turned into a who’s-on-top-who’s-on-bottom wager.

 

Hehehe~

 

Since the parties involved had spoken, Huangfu Xiong could no longer say anything further. After all, he didn’t think Yan Zhen could defeat his granddaughter.

 

Even if Yan Zhen had regained his talents, he was only a three-star Mystic Disciple, while Huangfu Wenqing was already a five-star Mystic One. Moreover, Huangfu Wenqing would continue to receive Cloud Heaven Palace’s full support in her cultivation, whereas Yan Zhen…

 

In any case, the gap between them was too significant, and Yan Zhen basically had no chance of surpassing Huangfu Wenqing.

 

This wager was merely a fruitless act of defiance driven by a youth’s self-esteem.

 

“Then let’s settle it as such.”

 

Huangfu Xiong was very satisfied with this outcome, as he did not wish for this matter to affect the relationship between the two families either.

 

After all, Yan Lie had once been a trusted brother-in-arms who had fought life-and-death battles alongside him.

 

[Ding! Congratulations to the host for finally completing the call-off-marriage plot. You may claim the reward from the system interface.]

 

—Great!

 

Yan Zhen inwardly cheered as he quietly claimed the reward, finding it was another special trump card called “Domineering Aura.”

 

Special Trump Card – Domineering Aura: A card only the protagonist can use. When activated, it can intimidate all friendly and hostile targets within range, effective up to the Mystic General realm.

 

—Wow, not bad! Specialized for intimidation, a must-have for any protagonist!

 

“Zhen’er, Wenqing will be leaving early tomorrow morning. You two should go chat for a bit and don’t disturb this old man’s game with your Uncle Yan.”

 

“Ah?”

 

“What ‘ah’? You two go play. This old man needs to have a good match with my old buddy Yan!”

 

Unable to refuse the elders’ instructions, Yan Zhen turned to his fiancée and said, “Then shall we… go chat outside?”

 

“Sure~”

 

Huangfu Wenqing didn’t pretend to be reserved anymore, actively extending her hand for Yan Zhen to hold, just like the other day.

 

Yan Zhen scratched his nose and grasped his fiancée’s delicate, boneless hand, the tender smoothness causing a ripple in his heart while the faint warmth made his heartbeat quicken slightly.

 

Huangfu Wenqing curved her lips, grasping his hand back as she walked outside briskly.

 

“Where shall we go? How about the rear garden? Yan Zhen, which way to the rear garden?”

 

“…I’ll lead the way.”

 

The Lord’s Mansion’s rear garden featured artificial mountains, flowing streams, flowers, plants, and trees – all the trimmings. The scenery was pleasant during the day, but it had a unique charm at night too.

 

The stone pavilion at the center of the pond was illuminated, casting a hazy glow over the surroundings and adding an air of mystery compared to daytime.

 

Seated in the pavilion, one could also see the koi carp drawn by the lights, crowding together and splashing their tails on the water’s surface despite having no food to feed them.

 

The two walked hand-in-hand to the stone pavilion and chose a spot to sit.

 

Just as Yan Zhen was about to let go of her hand, he noticed Huangfu Wenqing’s firm grasp remained.

 

“That…”

 

“Hmm?”

 

The moment he opened his mouth, Huangfu Wenqing responded, her sparkling eyes gazing directly at him in a way that quickened his pulse.

 

“Nothing.” Yan Zhen blinked and casually remarked, “The moonlight is truly beautiful tonight.”

 

Upon hearing this, Huang Fu Wenqing’s heart skipped a beat, two small red clouds blooming on her cheeks.

 

“The moonlight is truly beautiful” was a beautiful expression used by youths in Zhexi Prefecture to confess their feelings, a homophone for “I like you, you’re so beautiful.”

 

Was Yan Zhen confessing to her? Or was he simply admiring the moonlight?

 

Huangfu Wenqing glanced up at the night sky and realized with delight that the moon was still hidden behind clouds.

 

Without moonlight, how could it be “truly beautiful”?

 

So he must have been expressing his feelings for her in an implicit manner…

 

Thump, thump, Huangfu Wenqing had never felt her heart beat so rapidly. Even when she had previously lifted her clothes to show him the mystic pattern on her lower abdomen, she hadn’t felt this nervous and shy.

 

How should she respond? Should she directly say, “I like you too”? Or should she be more implicit like him?

 

Previously, she had willingly become Yan Zhen’s slave, but he didn’t seem to have much of a reaction to that.

 

Did this mean Yan Zhen preferred a more implicit approach? But if she was too implicit, how could she properly convey her feelings?

 

This sudden onset of joy made the Huangfu family’s beloved princess feel a mix of elation and trepidation.

 

After some thought, she hooked her arm around Yan Zhen’s and leaned against his shoulder, smiling as she said, “Indeed, the moonlight is very beautiful tonight.”

 

Yan Zhen’s face immediately reddened, for he had also noticed the moon was obscured by clouds, so how could the “moonlight be beautiful”? 

 

Huangfu Wenqing was clearly offering him a way out by going along with his words.

 

How embarrassing.

 

To be honest, Yan Zhen was quite inept at these emotional scenes. After all, he had been a single virgin born from his mother’s womb, and his conversations with girls at school mostly revolved around academics.

 

—Wasn’t this supposed to be a heroineless erotic fantasy world? Why was there such an intimate rendezvous scene?

 

[Hehehe, the host brought this upon himself.]

 

—Damn this system!

 

The softness pressing against his arm, the floral fragrance rivaling that of flowers wafting into his nostrils, coupled with the deep night and their seclusion, it inevitably caused improper thoughts to arise in Yan Zhen’s mind.

—Hold on, this is a heroineless erotic fantasy world. The protagonist is supposed to be an emotionless cultivation machine, not someone who starts having indecent fantasies just from getting a little intimate with his fiancée!

“Yan Zhen, there’s something I want to tell you.”

“What is it?”

Huangfu Wenqing said seriously, “Would you like to come with me to Cloud Heaven Palace?”

Yan Zhen was taken aback. “Go to Cloud Heaven Palace? Why?”

“There are renowned alchemist masters residing in Cloud Heaven Palace who may be able to cure your physical ailment.”

Though Huangfu Wenqing knew Yan Zhen would soon regain his talents, if he went to Cloud Heaven Palace with her, they could cultivate and grow together. They would get to spend much more time together compared to her previous life, which filled her with joy at the thought.

Moreover, once at Cloud Heaven Palace, her master would also frequently see Yan Zhen.

Even though her master didn’t know him yet in this life, she felt that since her master had been attracted to Yan Zhen in the previous life, it would likely happen again.

Then her master could be the wife, while she would be the concubine, the three of them living happily together!

Cough, or in case, just in case her master didn’t take a liking to Yan Zhen, then she could have him all to herself, which would be equally wonderful~

The beautiful images playing out in her mind made Huang Fu Wenqing’s eyes crinkle with delight.

However, Yan Zhen shook his head in refusal. “I appreciate your kind intentions, but my talents have already recovered, so there’s no need for further treatment.”

 

Chapter 23: Zhen’er, my dear Zhen’er~

When Yan Zhen regained his senses, all his mystic gates had been opened, and he felt an incredible sense of permeation throughout his body.

With the mystic gates opened, the efficiency of absorbing heavenly and earthly energies would vastly improve, and his cultivation speed would be incomparable to ordinary means.

One could even say he was on the verge of a breakthrough.

—Skipping through that was so civilized~

“Zhen’er, how do you feel?”

Yan Zhen looked at the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister before him, flexing his muscles excitedly.

“I feel great!”

“Not bad. I didn’t expect you to endure the pain without making a sound throughout the whole process.” Chen Xi was very satisfied with Yan Zhen’s performance, recalling how difficult it had been for him to endure in his previous life. “Alright, come out and get dressed.”

Upon her words, Yan Zhen finally noticed that the medicinal brew in the tub had reverted from blue-green back to transparency, allowing him to see the underwater view.

He swiftly covered little Yan Zhen, his handsome face flushing red as he hurriedly glanced at the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister’s reaction.

Chen Xi impassively averted her gaze, as if she had never stolen a glimpse.

Only then did Yan Zhen breathe a sigh of relief, thinking that in the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister’s eyes, he was just a child, devoid of any sexual interest. Even if he bared his butt in front of her, there was no need to feel embarrassed.

With this in mind, Yan Zhen stood up from the water without reservation, stepping over to the other side of the bathtub.

The tub’s height reached his buttocks, conveniently blocking his lower body from view.

Turning his back to the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister, he dried himself off and changed into clean clothes.

After completing these tasks, Yan Zhen put away the bathtub and turned back around, cupping his fists in salute.

“Thank you, Master, for helping me open my mystic gates.”

Chen Xi gazed at him with gentle eyes:

“Opening the mystic gates is only the beginning. You will need to put in much more effort for subsequent cultivation. Although your talents are exceptional, Zhen’er, due to my circumstances, you have a three-year gap in your cultivation, causing your attainments to lag far behind your peers. To make up for this, you must find an alternative path.”

“Does Master have any good methods?”

“This is it.”

With a light tap of Chen Xi’s jade finger in the air, a small formation array instantly took shape and began rotating slowly.

The strange energies drifting in this space converged, quickly forming a breathtakingly beautiful mist of mystic energy.

Yan Zhen exclaimed in surprise, “This is the ‘Mystic Gathering Formation’?”

Chen Xi smiled faintly, “Correct. At your current level, you cannot yet consume pellets, or else the medicinal power may not be fully refined, leaving hidden dangers. Only a formation is most suitable. The Mystic Gathering Formation can gather and refine the surrounding heavenly and earthly energies. Cultivating within it can greatly enhance your cultivation speed.”

Yan Zhen’s eyes sparkled like a child receiving a new toy.

“We’ll cultivate right here?”

Chen Xi shook her head slightly. “The energies within the Fire-Refining Starry Sky are too pure. At your Mystic Disciple level, you simply cannot absorb them. You should find a secluded place in the outside world, and I will set up the Mystic Gathering Formation there, creating a small cultivation paradise for you.”

“Yes, Master!”

“Don’t rush. You’re tired today as well. Rest up properly, we can begin again tomorrow.”

“Th-Then I’ll take my leave?”

“Go ahead.”

Just as Yan Zhen was about to channel his mystic force into the “Star-Shifting Fire Seal” on his palm, the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister called out to stop him.

“Wait, Zhen’er.”

“What is it?”

Chen Xi looked directly at Yan Zhen’s face, hesitating briefly before reaching out to caress his head.

Stroke after stroke, as if caressing a priceless treasure.

Yan Zhen was taken aback, unsure of her intentions, but obediently lowered his head to allow her caresses.

This obedient demeanor struck Chen Xi’s heart like an arrow, shattering all her defenses. A powerful urge welled up from deep within to embrace him tightly and shower him with affection.

To have him nestle against her bosom, nuzzling adoringly as they felt each other’s warmth.

Ahh…

—No, no, this is only our second meeting. We’re not familiar enough yet. It might scare him and ruin her image as a master!

Mustering great willpower, Chen Xi suppressed the impulse and reluctantly withdrew her jade hand.

“This is your reward for today. Alright, go on now.”

—If he didn’t leave soon, she wouldn’t be able to hold back!

Yan Zhen blinked, letting out an “Oh,” before activating the fire seal to depart.

Seeing him leave, Chen Xi waved her wide sleeve, condensing a mystic light mirror.

The mirror replayed the entire process of Yan Zhen stripping and entering the water.

Gazing at the mirror’s Yan Zhen, the corners of Chen Xi’s lips curved upwards, her face taking on an almost manic smile.

“Zhen’er, my dear Zhen’er, huhuhuhuh…”

Yan Zhen remained unaware of his master’s current state. Back in his room, confirming the crystal sphere still hung from his neck, he got off the bed and stretched his body, feeling utterly relaxed.

After taking a sip of tea to moisten his throat, he noticed it had already turned dark outside. It seemed opening his mystic gates had taken quite a long time, though Yan Zhen hadn’t felt it since he skipped that part of the plot.

Looks like he could only find a place to cultivate tomorrow.

“Young Lord!”

A servant called out from outside the door, saying it was time for him to go to the dining hall.

In the dining hall, the elders led by Yan Lie and Huangfu Xiong were already seated in a circle. Huangfu Wenqing sat beside Huangfu Xiong, with an empty seat next to her, followed by Yan Meng’er.

Upon seeing Yan Zhen, Yan Lie immediately beckoned him to sit down and instructed the servants to serve the dishes.

This time, the two women behaved themselves without trying to feed him.

During the meal, they mentioned that the Huangfu clan would be leaving in the morning, so this was a farewell dinner.

After the meal, Yan Lie and Huangfu Xiong dismissed the others, leaving only Huangfu Wenqing and Yan Zhen.

Huangfu Xiong got straight to the point: “Lad, your grandfather must have told you about the marriage agreement between you and my girl Wenqing, right?”

Seeing Yan Zhen nod, the old general continued: “So what’s your answer? Do you agree or not? No need to hold back, this old man wants to hear your true thoughts.”

Beside him, Huangfu Wenqing stared intently at Yan Zhen, her eyes filled with unease.

She had only just learned about her master allowing Yan Zhen to marry into Cloud Heaven Palace, feeling utterly bewildered, as it didn’t sound like something her master would say. It was actually an excuse she had used in her previous life to convince her master to bring people and call off the marriage.

Her master had never interfered with her private matters before!

Could her rebirth have caused some changes?

For most men, marrying into the wife’s family was very difficult to accept, especially when Yan Zhen was currently in a low point. This felt like she was taking advantage of his plight to force him into marrying in, a huge blow to his self-esteem.

She hoped he wouldn’t get angry.

After all, she had already formed a master-servant contract with him, becoming his slave.

Yan Zhen felt a bit troubled, as this scene wasn’t in the original script at all, requiring him to improvise.

After some consideration, he replied: “Grandpa Huangfu, to be honest, I’m not too keen on marrying into your family, but I’m not completely against it either. After all, in my current state, it may not be appropriate for Wenqing to marry into my family.”

—Why wouldn’t it be appropriate? It would be more than appropriate!

Huangfu Wenqing really wanted to say this, a hint of resentful longing flashing in her beautiful eyes.

Yan Zhen did not notice her expression as he continued: “However, I don’t want to just give in and become Cloud Heaven Palace’s live-in son-in-law without doing anything. Here’s what I suggest – let’s make a bet or an agreement.”

Huangfu Xiong’s brow furrowed slightly as he stroked his beard. “What kind of agreement?”

 

Chapter 22 : Strip!

In the blink of an eye, when Yan Zhen regained his senses, he found himself in the crystal space “Fire-Refining Starry Sky.” The massive celestial pillars towered endlessly into the sky. Gazing past the gaps between the pillars revealed numerous blazing stars, an incredibly brilliant sight.

At the center of the plaza formed by the pillars stood a five-colored altar, upon which Chen Xi maintained a crossed-legged, closed-eye meditation posture. Sensing Yan Zhen’s arrival, she opened her eyes in an instant.

“Zhen’er, come here quickly.”

As soon as the words left her lips, a small formation array unfolded beneath Yan Zhen’s feet at the distant plaza entrance, instantly transporting him before Chen Xi.

Yan Zhen had grown accustomed to such teleportation. After steadying himself, he respectfully greeted her:

“Greetings, Master.”

Chen Xi slightly nodded, taking the initiative to ask, “Did you prepare all the materials I asked you to?”

“I have prepared them all.”

As the Young Lord of the city, Yan Zhen at least had a holding ring. With a flash of light from his finger, the medicinal ingredients and that large bucket of water were neatly arrayed before him.

“Blooddrop Grass, Magnolia Blossoms, and Water Wave Pearls, they’re all here.”

“Then Zhen’er, wait a moment.”

As Chen Xi spoke, she stretched out her jade-like white hand, lifting it in the void. All the medicinal ingredients before her became enveloped in mystic forces, gently levitating.

Haaah.

The mystic forces enveloping the ingredients transformed into pure, five-colored flames, beginning to scorch the ingredients within under Chen Xi’s control.

As the flames ignited, Yan Zhen’s gaze also brightened.

These were not ordinary flames but the ultimate flames born from nature itself – the “Heavenly Earthly Extreme Flames.”

Each of the extreme flames was a sovereign king of fire, immensely powerful and noble, extremely difficult to tame.

Yet once tamed, they became a tremendous boon for mystic cultivators, especially alchemists.

The one in the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister’s hands was named the “Starlight Glazed Flame,” renowned as the most beautiful extreme flame. It also possessed healing powers, ranking among the top ten in the legendary “Extreme Flame Ranks.”

In the later part of the story, the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister even passed down this “Starlight Glazed Flame” that had accompanied her for many years to Yan Zhen, assisting him in making further breakthroughs.

She was truly an exceptional master, so he would never “ride her ancestor”!

After a pot of tea’s time, the three ingredients had been refined into a paste-like state, then swiftly mixed together, their medicinal properties fusing under the flames’ continued scorching.

As the medicinal paste rapidly spun, it gradually took on the shape of a pellet.

However, this time it was not for pellet refinement, but rather the creation of a medicinal liquid.

Before long, Chen Xi stopped, the five-colored flames gradually extinguishing to leave behind a sphere of blue-green medicinal liquid hovering in mid-air.

“Go.”

With a flick of her finger, Chen Xi sent the liquid into the large wooden tub, instantly dyeing the water a beautiful blue-green while causing it to furiously boil.

“With this ‘Meridian-Protecting Precious Liquid,’ the pain from opening your mystic gates will be reduced to the minimum, while also minimizing the drain on your physical energy,” Chen Xi smiled faintly. “Alright, Zhen’er, strip off your clothes and soak in it.”

“Yes!”

Yan Zhen swiftly stripped off his clothes, leaving only his boxer shorts. He approached the tub and stared at the boiling medicinal brew with some trepidation.

It was boiling, right? At standard atmospheric pressure, that’s 100 degrees Celsius. If he soaked directly in it, wouldn’t he be cooked alive?

He carefully extended his hand to test the water temperature and found it comfortably warm.

It seemed the boiling was just a special effect of the medicinal liquid, not actual boiling.

Just as Yan Zhen was about to step into the tub, Chen Xi stopped him.

“Wait, Zhen’er, you haven’t taken off all your clothes yet.”

“Ah?” Yan Zhen was taken aback. “Do I need to strip completely? Leaving my underwear on shouldn’t affect things much, right?”

“It may not affect much, but there is still an effect!” Chen Xi’s brow furrowed slightly as her expression turned solemn. “In the art of alchemy, precision down to the smallest detail is required. Such an ambiguous attitude is unacceptable! If you wish to learn my alchemical ways in the future, you should start by correcting your attitude now. Strip!”

“Y-Yes!”

As a reincarnated science student, Yan Zhen naturally understood such principles.

But wait, the script did say he had kept his boxer shorts on, with the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister even telling him earlier, “No need to strip completely.”

It seemed the previous plot deviations had caused corresponding changes in the later details.

Yan Zhen took a deep breath and quickly removed his last layer of defense, baring his butt cheeks as he jumped into the large bathtub.

Plop, splashing up blue-green water droplets, the semi-transparent medicinal brew made his body appear visible yet obscured beneath the surface.

Glancing at the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister, he saw her maintain that aloof, elegant beauty. Yan Zhen felt slightly relieved, the blush on his face quickly fading.

However, Chen Xi had already secretly saved her disciple’s “sensual photo” in her mind, her ample bosom palpitating rapidly beneath.

A mix of shyness and guilt, yet not a hint showed on her face.

This was the breath control technique of a semi-sage!

She slowly rose and, dragging the invisible chains bound around her waist, approached the large bathtub. As she circled around observing Yan Zhen, her gaze seemed to stick to his body, never leaving for even a moment.

Yan Zhen felt rather uncomfortable under her scrutiny, thinking the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister must be observing the paths of his meridians and the locations of his mystic gates, as the script had described.

Yet what Chen Xi thought was: The color of the medicinal liquid was a bit too concentrated.

After observing for a while, Chen Xi pondered briefly before instructing, “Zhen’er, raise your arm.”

Yan Zhen immediately raised his dripping right arm.

Chen Xi grasped Yan Zhen’s right arm, squeezing here and there, then had him raise his other arm to continue squeezing.

Yan Zhen was confused. “Master, what are you doing?”

Chen Xi answered calmly, “Confirming the locations of your mystic gates.”

But according to the script, the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister was supposed to perceive their locations at a glance, as she was a Sage-realm alchemist!

Was this another detail deviation? In reality, the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister was more cautious and meticulous, which could also be seen as a way of caring for her disciple!

“Raise your legs too.”

“Oh.”

Yan Zhen covered little Yan Zhen with one hand while propping both legs up on the tub’s edge, and Chen Xi proceeded to squeeze along his legs as well.

After squeezing to her satisfaction—no, after confirming the locations of his mystic gates, Chen Xi retracted her hands and said, “That should be enough. Next, I will help you open all your mystic gates. Although the medicinal liquid will alleviate your suffering, you will still need to endure a portion of the pain yourself. You must persevere.”

Yan Zhen had actually found the squeezing quite pleasurable and wanted the master to squeeze some more. Hearing her words, he responded after regaining his senses, “I understand, Master. Please begin; I can endure it!”

Chen Xi did not say more. Pressing her fingers together, she formed a slender, five-colored flame needle between them.

With a gentle flick, the five-colored flame needle pierced Yan Zhen’s back.

The scorching mystic force contained within the needle seeped into Yan Zhen’s body in a relatively mild manner, then gradually accelerated through his meridians until gushing.

Intense, stabbing pain abruptly erupted, causing the previously composed Yan Zhen to widen his eyes.

—Sh*t! This is too much!

[Ding! System friendly reminder: The host can choose whether to skip over tedious, painful plotlines that do not affect subsequent cultivation.]

—What?!

Yan Zhen focused his gaze to see a dialog box had popped up on the system interface:

“Skip the process of opening the mystic gates?”

—No need to ask, skip it!

Chapter 21 : Your purchases here are all free of charge

What’s going on now? Bullying him just because he’s a newcomer actor? Even a minor villain is not following the script, huh?!

Yan Zhen was fuming with rage. He went up and delivered a kick, knocking Ao Ge down, leaving several large footprints on his face before letting him off.

Ao Ge grunted and groaned, not daring to retaliate at all, obediently laying on the ground playing dead, just like his two lackey guards.

“Cousin, don’t be angry. This guy isn’t worth it,” the two women consoled him in turn, unaware that Yan Zhen’s anger was not what they thought.

[Ding! Congratulations to the host for completing the critical plot ‘A Little Test,’ successfully trampling the young master Ao Ge underfoot. You may claim the reward from the interface.]

“……”

This counts as completing it? Although he did indeed stomp on Ao Ge a few times.

But since the plot could be completed, there was nothing to be angry about anymore.

He suddenly felt a little sorry for Ao Ge. Should he wipe the footprints off his face? Ah, haha~

Yan Zhen silently claimed the plot completion reward, another special trump card named “Wisdom Strike.” When activated, it could cause the target’s intelligence to decrease when facing Yan Zhen, hence also known as the “Brilliant Card.”

It was quite powerful as it worked regardless of the target’s cultivation realm.

—Oh, system, didn’t you forget to give me the reward for the apprenticeship plot?

Yan Zhen suddenly remembered this.

[After the plot is completed, the host can claim the reward themselves. Since the host was enchanted by Chen Xi’s silver hair and G-cup breasts last night, he forgot to claim it.]

“/(//o/ω/o//)/”

Yan Zhen was a little embarrassed by the system’s bluntness and quickly closed the system interface, thinking he would claim it later.

The conflict between Yan Zhen and Ao Ge drew attention from those around them. To avoid trouble, the three hurried into the Jinyu Merchant Guild.

Even as a branch, the grandeur of the Jinyu Merchant Guild surpassed the surrounding buildings, not only in outward appearance but also in interior decor.

The shop was spacious but crowded, feeling very lively.

The three headed straight to the women’s clothing section and saw the new dresses mentioned earlier.

There were two styles: one called “Peach Blossom Mirroring Spring,” leaning towards an open type with a slightly higher exposure level; the other called “Bamboo Forest Graceful Shadow,” tightly wrapped in a corset style that could best accentuate the body’s curves.

Yan Meng’er immediately took a liking to the peach-colored one, while Huang Fu Wenqing chose the blue-green one.

When they asked about the price, it was a staggering ten thousand crystal coins.

Because the dresses were embroidered with golden thread runes, not only could they keep one warm in winter and cool in summer, but they could also withstand a certain level of mystic force attacks, already ranking among the best of the first-grade mystic artifacts.

“This is a bit expensive,” said Yan Meng’er, as she did not have that much money.

Huang Fu Wenqing did have the funds, but she didn’t carry that much on her. Back in the royal capital, she usually had servants help with any purchases she wanted to make.

“Buy it if you like it. I’ll treat you both,” Yan Zhen smiled, shaking the money pouch he had just taken out from the system. “I have enough money.”

“Really? Thank you, Cousin! Meng’er loves you the most~” Excited, Yan Meng’er even brazenly planted a kiss on Yan Zhen’s cheek in front of everyone, making his face flush.

“This Yan Meng’er…” Seeing Yan Meng’er’s shameless behavior, Huang Fu Wenqing, who had intended to act more reserved in public, could only steel herself and follow suit, giving Yan Zhen a small peck on the other cheek while softly thanking him.

As a result, Yan Zhen was immediately subjected to the envious gazes of the other men present, forcing him to hurry and pay before leaving with the two women.

However, when they reached the cashier, an unexpected incident occurred.

“—Are you Young Lord Yan Zhen? Your purchases here are all free of charge; no need to pay.”

The beautiful cashier auntie smiled as she said this.

Yan Zhen scratched his head, utterly baffled.

“Why is that?”

The cashier auntie stated that she did not know either; she was merely following orders from above.

Yan Meng’er and Huang Fu Wenqing both had a guess in their hearts, yet they felt it was unlikely.

As for Yan Zhen, he thought of the later plot in the story.

At that time, Yan Zhen and the head of the Jinyu Merchant Guild had already developed a deep sibling-like bond. Any of his purchases within the guild were entirely free, except for the signature treasures of each branch store; he could take whatever he wanted.

But that was the middle-to-late plot! Right now, he didn’t even know that beautiful big sister yet, so how could he have such privileges?

To test the authenticity of this privilege, Yan Zhen went to the medicinal ingredients area and purchased the herbs the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister had asked him to prepare.

Sure enough, when he checked out, another cashier aunt said, “Your purchases here are all free of charge.”

Good things were good, but Yan Zhen could not fathom why this was happening.

With lingering doubts, Yan Zhen, Yan Meng’er, and Huang Fu Wenqing left the Jinyu Merchant Guild. After having a meal at a nearby restaurant, they returned to the Lord’s Mansion.

Along the way, Yan Meng’er tightly hugged the package containing the dress, as if holding a treasure.

It was just a nice dress, not that important. After all, her mentality was no longer that of an innocent young girl. But this could be considered a gift from Yan Zhen, a gift she had not received in over ten years.

In her previous life, she had never imagined she could receive such a meaningful gift from Yan Zhen.

Huang Fu Wenqing felt the same way.

The only gift she had ever received from Yan Zhen in her previous life was an opportunity to cultivate the wind mystic force, or more accurately, something he had allowed her out of respect for their master.

A dress, the kind of thing only given to close ones, was something she dared not even imagine.

“Well then, Yan Zhen, I’ll return to my room first. See you later.”

“Cousin, I’ll come find you again later.”

The two women happily bade farewell, and Yan Zhen returned to his own courtyard. After drawing a large bucket of water into his room and closing the door, he prepared to enter the crystal space again to meet the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister!

Wait, he still hadn’t claimed the system reward for the apprenticeship plot. He quickly claimed it, lest he forget again.

Yan Zhen summoned the system interface, went to the previous critical plot, and clicked to claim the reward.

[Congratulations to the host for obtaining ‘Special Trump Card: Riding the Master’s Ancestor’ x1]

“What the heck?!” Yan Zhen stared at the description and read it aloud: “A card that only the protagonist can use. When activated, it allows the user to push down and defile the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister or other beautiful elders.”

This…

“What use is this?”

[The host is truly foolish. Of course, it’s for riding the master’s ancestor.]

“You’ve got to be kidding me!”

As a righteous protagonist, how could he possibly commit such an unethical act?

But surely the system couldn’t give him a useless reward, could it?

Ah, yes! Yan Zhen remembered again: In the later part of the story, the beautiful senior-apprenticed sister’s friend, that beautiful senior-apprenticed aunt, had been unable to break through her cultivation for many years. So she set her sights on Yan Zhen’s precious body, wanting to dual-cultivate with him. After being rejected, she tried to force herself upon him. Fortunately, Chen Xi arrived in time, preserving his innocence.

This special trump card was perhaps meant to be used in such situations, to prevent his primal yang from being taken by certain lustful senior female cultivators, ensuring this erotic fantasy world remained “heroineless.”

After understanding this, Yan Zhen withdrew the card and calmed his emotions before activating the “Star-Shifting Fire Seal” in his palm.

Whoosh, Yan Zhen vanished from his spot, leaving behind only a limpid lapis lazuli-like crystal sphere quietly hovering in mid-air.

20 Why Provoke Them?

[Ding! Critical Plot Triggered] [Current Plot – Chapter 8: A Small Test of Ability] [Role Requirements: Put the Villainous Playboy Beneath Your Feet] [Completion: 0%]

Here we go.

“Heh.” Ao Ge let out a cold laugh. “Young Master Yan Zhen, you can’t possibly still think you’re that former genius, do you?”

“It’s more than enough for me to deal with a pig like you.”

Yan Zhen’s expression remained unchanged. Without revealing his trump cards (First Grade) or Special Trump Card – Domineering Aura, just the ‘Mystic Body Art’ he had recently learned would suffice against 6th or 7th level Mystic Disciples.

Ao Ge fell within that realm of power. Plus, his cultivation was basically built up through external means and had been depleted by his indulgences. Defeating him would be truly simple.

However, according to the script, the plot involves Yan Zhen borrowing a sliver of the beautiful senior martial sister’s power from within the crystal dimension to publicly humble Ao Ge.

After dealing with Ao Ge, it was as if he had suffered an intelligence debuff, foolishly becoming enraged and ordering his two lackey guards to teach Yan Zhen, the young master, a lesson.

They were then thoroughly beaten by patrolling soldiers and thrown into prison, awaiting Ao Ge’s father to bail them out.

—Ao Ge was destined to be thoroughly crushed, even Jesus couldn’t save him now.

Yan Zhen’s words gradually caused Ao Ge’s expression to darken:

“Heh heh, Young Master Yan Zhen sure loves joking around. You, at the third level of Mystic Disciple, think you can handle me? Since that’s the case, this young master will have to properly seek guidance from Young Master Yan Zhen. I just hope the young master dares to accept the challenge.”

A 6th level against a 3rd level – the advantage was his. What was there to fear?

Just as Yan Zhen was about to respond, Yan Meng’er cut in first:

“Ao Ge, you’re going too far!”

Yan Meng’er stepped forward, shielding Yan Zhen behind her as anger filled her lovely face.

“Before, you’d turn tail and run at the mere sight of Cousin Yan Zhen. Now that Cousin is dealing with physical issues, you want to take advantage and humiliate him. Did you ask for my permission? If you want to fight, then fight me! If I can’t defeat you within three moves, I’ll admit defeat!”

She was an 8th level Mystic Disciple and also possessed the insight and experience of being a half-step Mystic Lord in her previous life. If she truly fought Ao Ge, a single move would suffice.

“Count me in too.” Huang Fu Wenqing also stepped in front of Yan Zhen, glancing at Ao Ge’s two lackey guards – both 6-star Mystic Ones, one level above her – but showing no fear. “You can come at me together.”

Upon hearing this, Ao Ge’s two guards, concerned for their young master’s safety, immediately stepped forward in a threatening manner.

Ao Ge smiled faintly, speaking in an unhurried tone:

“So you’ll just keep hiding behind women, Young Master Yan Zhen?”

Er, well, in the original script he had encountered Ao Ge alone while out buying medicinal ingredients, without Yan Meng’er and Huang Fu Wenqing accompanying him.

Yan Zhen felt rather conflicted.

Naturally, he was glad to have people getting angry and standing up for him, regardless of gender.

However, this meant he could no longer follow the scripted plot.

“Being able to hide behind women is a skill in itself. But you, Pig Ao Ge, don’t require me to use that skill yet…Meng’er, Wenqing, step aside. Let me handle this.”

“Cousin, no!”

“Yan Zhen, don’t be provoked by him.”

The two ladies urgently tried to dissuade him.

They knew that after this, Yan Zhen would rapidly rise in power, surpassing everyone. But that time was not now.

The gap between the third and sixth levels was still quite significant. They didn’t believe Yan Zhen could win, and even if he could, it wouldn’t be an easy victory.

How could they just stand idly by and watch Yan Zhen get hurt?

Seeing the concerned looks on the ladies’ faces only made Ao Ge more jealous of Yan Zhen. Such beauties should be enjoying his company instead. How did a mere third-level waste deserve this kind of attention?

“Ladies, it’s best you don’t intervene in a duel between men. Otherwise, if you’re accidentally hurt, it would tarnish this young master’s reputation of cherishing beauties.”

“Shut up, you dare lay a finger on Cousin Yan Zhen?”

“Hmph.”

“Having declined a friendly drink, I can only be more unrestrained then. You two, restrain them. This young master wishes to spar one-on-one with Young Master Yan Zhen.”

The two lackey guards received the order and moved to surround Huang Fu Wenqing and Yan Meng’er, one on each side.

However, before they could act, Huang Fu Wenqing had already drawn her sword from her artifact ring, unhesitatingly thrusting it forward.

—She was angered. These irrelevant fools were wasting time from her date with Yan Zhen, an unforgivable crime!

Her sword split into two streaks of sword shadows imbued with piercing wind-attribute mystic power, striking the shoulders of the two guards with merciless precision.

The ‘Splitting Light Fragmentary Sword’ technique. At minimum it created two sword shadows, qualifying as a mystic technique. At maximum, it could unleash three thousand raining sword streaks, becoming a… supreme mystic technique!

Shrit!

Two spurts of blood erupted as the lackeys cried out in pain, stumbling backwards uncontrollably with one arm now rendered useless. They gazed at the breathtakingly beautiful girl in terror.

Too fast – all they saw were two black flashes before being struck. Yet she was only a five-star Mystic One!

This could only mean one thing: the mystic arts and techniques she cultivated were far beyond their levels!

Huang Fu Wenqing flicked her sword, splattering the blood from its tip onto the ground.

“!?”

Ao Ge’s eyes bulged. His two six-star Mystic One guards, painstakingly acquired from his father, had just been instantly defeated by this unknown young lady upon first encounter?

At that moment, Yan Meng’er also attacked, unleashing a palm strike aimed squarely at Ao Ge.

The ‘Great Blazing Palm’ mystic technique – an enhanced version of the ‘Blazing Palm’ nearing the level of an earth-mystic technique.

Scorching force rushed towards Ao Ge’s face. Panicking, he could only hastily activate the first-grade defensive mystic artifact ‘Heart’s Mirror’ on his chest.

The palm strike slammed into Ao Ge’s chest, its blazing power effortlessly shattered the ‘Heart’s Mirror’ radiance. The residual force penetrated through, jolting Ao Ge’s chest and leaving him gasping for air as his rotund body was blasted away, kicking up a cloud of dust.

“Aiyo!”

The two guards wailed, as Ao Ge had crashed right into them.

After defeating Ao Ge with a single palm, Yan Meng’er retracted her hand and coldly snorted in disdain.

Cushioned by his guards, Ao Ge avoided serious injury. He quickly regained his breath and clambered back up.

The ‘Heart’s Mirror’ had shattered, leaving his chest badly bruised and making him wince with each pained breath.

Looking up, Yan Meng’er and Huang Fu Wenqing stared down at him with icy expressions.

A powerful sense of dread welled up within Ao Ge’s heart.

“You… you… what do you want? My father is the head of the Ao Family, a nine-star Mystic Master! If you dare kill me, he won’t let you off!”

The two ladies narrowed their eyes, immediately causing Ao Ge to cower.

“Spare me, noble ladies! This young master was wrong! Don’t kill me, please don’t kill me!”

Ignoring him, they turned towards Yan Zhen behind them.

“Cousin Yan Zhen, how would you like to deal with him?”

“Why not just finish him off? A profligate wretch like this can’t be reformed. We need to make an example to ensure they learn their lesson.”

Yan Zhen blinked, feeling rather dazed.

Wasn’t this supposed to be his protagonist’s debut scene of arrogantly crushing the villain? Yet before he could act, Ao Ge was already kneeling and begging for mercy!

Yan Meng’er and Huang Fu Wenqing had taken action, arrogantly putting Ao Ge in his place, while Yan Zhen himself did nothing!

That dumb Ao Ge, why provoke them?

He had already agreed to fight one-on-one, but that Pig Ao Ge still attacked Yan Meng’er and Huang Fu Wenqing. Was he brain-damaged?

Now look at the mess – Ao Ge had been beaten senseless and Yan Zhen lost his scripted debut scene.

Yan Zhen: *%#@!

19 The First Official Villain

The trio naturally drew a lot of attention.

Yan Zhen, as the young master of the Lord’s Manor, was once the most outstanding genius of Wudang City three years ago. Yet in those three years, his cultivation had made no progress at all, degenerating into a mere waste. This sensational story had long spread throughout the entire city, and many citizens recognized him.

As for Yan Meng’er and Huang Fu Wenqing…

The former used to frequently stroll the streets with Yan Zhen, so her face was well-known. Although the latter wasn’t from Wudang City, the arrival of the Huang Fu family yesterday had already attracted widespread attention, allowing those aware to immediately guess her identity.

Moreover, not to mention anything else, the appearance and bearing of either beauty would cause passersby to turn their heads at least eighty percent of the time. Together, it was a hundred percent head-turning rate.

Wherever the trio went, they became the center of attention. Gradually, they also began to feel rather uncomfortable, with various discussions reaching their ears.

“The young master’s cultivation still seems to be at the third level of Mystic Disciple, without any change at all. It’s been three years already.”

“Who could have imagined that the former genius would fall from grace overnight, still unable to get back up after three whole years?”

“Not just three years, it may remain this way forever. It’s such a pity that our lord went missing because of his son. Now the old lord has to shoulder the burden again. Alas~”

“I heard that the precious daughter of the Huang Fu family was betrothed to our young master from a young age. You think their visit this time is to call off the engagement?”

“That’s unlikely. The marriages between great clans are no simple matter – they probably can’t just directly call it off.”

“No, no, no. That Lady Huang Fu is said to have exceptional talents. Not only was she granted the title of Princess by the King himself, but she was also accepted as the National Master’s personal disciple. Our young master is completely outclassed by her now!”

Heh, those familiar NPC chatter lines felt rather nostalgic to hear… Yan Zhen’s expression remained unchanged, but he couldn’t help feeling a tinge of emotion.

Not because he was a masochist, but ever since he started playing the protagonist’s role, the supporting characters Yan Meng’er and Huang Fu Wenqing hadn’t been following the script, with only the beautiful senior martial sister being mostly true to it.

Now, hearing these NPC lines that matched the script perfectly, down to the punctuation marks, he felt a slight sense of gratification.

Could this mean the storyline was still progressing on track?

[Indeed, the host’s efforts have not been in vain. Please keep it up.]

Mmhm~

While Yan Zhen’s mood was good, Yan Meng’er and Huang Fu Wenqing didn’t feel the same.

The two ladies already felt guilty towards Yan Zhen. Hearing these people discuss Yan Zhen’s situation made them recall their own foolishness from their previous lives, causing them to feel even more remorseful.

“Cousin, we’ve finished eating. Let’s go somewhere else.”

“Where would you like to go?”

“How about the Jade Gem Trade Company? I heard they recently released a brand new line of dresses, it sounds intriguing~”

“Wenqing, what do you think?”

“Let’s go then. I’m also curious about these new dresses. It’s been so long since I last visited the Jade Gem branch in the capital that I didn’t even know about this.”

With a consensus reached, the trio left the snack street and headed towards the Jade Gem Trade Company in the eastern district.

The Jade Gem Trade Company was the largest commerce association in the Karo Kingdom, with branches not only across the nation but also in other countries. In addition to cultivation supplies, they would occasionally release all sorts of novel and eccentric items. From officials and nobles to commoners, everyone loved shopping there.

According to the script, the head manager of the Jade Gem Trade Company was a great beauty, who would soon cross paths with Yan Zhen.

After a series of events, the two would become sworn siblings of the opposite sex.

This head manager provided Yan Zhen with considerable support during his early growth and was his closest confidante, even rivaling the beautiful senior martial sister for the position of the main heroine!

[Ding! System Reminder: This is a harem world without a true heroine. Host, please do not—]

—I know, I was just commenting. And you perverted system, stop peeking into my thoughts, or I’ll report you!

[hontou ni sumimasen] (1)

—You…!

Nevermind, I won’t bother arguing with a bunch of code.

More importantly, I’m about to have a confrontation with a villain next.

Although just a measly “goblin”-level baddie, it’s still the first official villain, so I need to take it seriously.

As soon as the trio arrived in front of the Jade Gem Trade Company building, Yan Zhen spotted a well-dressed and rather portly youth emerging, followed by a few crony guards.

The other party also noticed Yan Zhen, as well as Yan Meng’er and Huang Fu Wenqing by his side. His eyes immediately lit up as he beckoned his underlings to trot over with a smug smile.

“Lady Meng’er, we meet again. It seems we’re truly fated~”

Seeing the leering expression on the newcomer’s face, Yan Meng’er’s brows furrowed slightly as her hands tightened their grip around Yan Zhen’s arm.

This person was the young master of the “Ao Family”, one of Wudang City’s three great clans, named “Ao Ge”. A notorious profligate playboy in Wudang City, skilled in all manners of debauchery. Ever since laying eyes on Yan Meng’er, he had persistently pestered her, refusing to give up even after being directly rejected.

Previously, Yan Zhen’s presence had deterred him. But after Yan Zhen’s cultivation fell, Ao Ge grew bolder, always bringing his men to block Yan Meng’er’s path whenever encountering her on the streets.

Though still respectful of Yan Meng’er’s status as the Lord’s Manor’s princess, he dared not overstep his bounds. Nevertheless, his behavior remained quite vexing.

“Young Master Ao Ge, you and I are not that close. Please show some restraint.”

Undeterred, Ao Ge continued smiling smugly.

“Lady Meng’er, you say that, but we’ve met so many times now. One meeting is still fresh, two meetings and we’re already familiar. If Lady Meng’er would grace me by dining and listening to some tunes together, we’d become even closer.”

A look of disgust flashed across Yan Meng’er’s face.

“I won’t go. Hurry up and get out of the way, don’t block the road.”

“If Lady Meng’er is worried about going alone, you could bring your sister along. Right, Miss Pretty I’ve never seen before?”

Ao Ge turned towards Huang Fu Wenqing, his eyes revealing a hint of admiration.

Unlike Yan Meng’er, Huang Fu Wenqing exuded an entirely different kind of charm.

Huang Fu Wenqing ignored him. Regardless of status or cultivation, this guy wasn’t even worthy of taking off her shoes.

Moreover, she utterly despised so-called profligate young masters. If she really went all out, she wouldn’t show the slightest mercy – those in the capital would flee at the mere sight of her.

Yet Ao Ge refused to give up, continuing:

“This pretty miss surely isn’t from Wudang City, is she? I’ve never seen such a beautiful face before, otherwise I could never forget it.”

Ugh, such a cringeworthy pickup line… Yan Zhen seized the moment to interject:

“Hey, Pig Ao Ge, didn’t you hear me tell you to get out of the way?”

Ao Ge acted as if he had just noticed Yan Zhen standing between the two ladies, glancing at the intimate way their arms were linked with his before his face contorted with jealousy.

“Well, well, if it isn’t Young Master Yan Zhen? Long time no see, you’re still at the third level of Mystic Disciple, huh?”

Hearing that line, Yan Zhen almost instinctively shot back with “Yeah, whatever” before starting to moonwalk. Composing himself, he responded according to the script:

“Pig Ao Ge, are you itching for a beating again?”

 

 

---

[hontou ni sumimasen] (1) I’m terribly / so sorry  (Japanese Phrase)