Category: They All Want to Be My Female Lead

18 Mystic Body Art, Learning It Instantly

The scene blurred for a moment, and Yan Zhen felt himself falling back onto the bed. Looking down, the crystal pendant still hung around his neck, dangling near his chest.

As if the fiery starry sky, the grand pillared plaza, and the beautiful senior martial sister were just a vivid dream.

But he knew it wasn’t a dream – it was the beginning of his rise to power!

“The beautiful senior martial sister truly lives up to her name, so gorgeous~”

In fact, the beautiful senior martial sister could be considered the original heroine.

Not only did she have the most scenes, but she was also the closest to Yan Zhen, even presiding over his grand wedding as his elder later on.

Truly, their master-disciple bond ran deep.

Even if their relationship solely consisted of the reverence and affection between master and disciple, it didn’t disqualify her from claiming the heroine’s position!

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

“I know, I was just musing. Don’t you think the beautiful senior martial sister is amazing?”

[Negative assessment.]

“Hmph.”

[System’s assessment: The host is simply blinded by her voluptuous assets.]

“How dare you sully her pure reputation so groundlessly!” Yan Zhen immediately flushed red with indignation. “Am I that shallow of a person? I’m not! I look upon the beautiful senior martial sister with admiration, respect – practically reverence!”

[Heh heh.]

This blasted system, turning the tables and learning to mock him.

Yan Zhen decided to ignore the worthless pile of code’s opinion and stretched lazily. 

“Morning already? I need to take Huang Fu Wenqing out shopping later. Might as well pick up some medicinal materials on the way – Blood Drop Grass, Magnolia Blossoms, and Water-Patterned Pearl, those three right? Wonder if I have enough savings.”

[Ding! System Reminder: The host still has an unopened newcomer’s gift box.]

“Ah right, the newcomer gift box has a million reserve funds!”

A million, enough to instantly make him a minor tycoon.  

*Cough* The system…not bad at all.

Yan Zhen happily retrieved the newcomer gift box from his system bag and opened it.

A flash of radiance, and four items sprang out.

One million universal spirit crystals, a first-grade mystic pellet of his choice, a first-grade mystic artifact of his choice, and a ‘Mystic Body Art’ manual.

The spirit crystals were ready to use as needed.  

As for the mystic pellet, he currently had no use for it. Their potent medicinal power was too strong for a Mystic Disciple like him to refine, so ingesting one would do more harm than good.

The mystic artifact was the same – without a Mystic One’s mystic power to support it, using a first-grade artifact would be extremely taxing.

However, this ‘Mystic Body Art’ manual’s description mentioned it was a foundational skill to enhance one’s offense, defense and speed by channeling mystic power.  

At the Mystic Disciple realm, applications of mystic power were extremely simplistic with no special techniques. Combat was purely trading blows head-on.

Whereas the ‘Mystic Body Art’ seemed capable of adding some flair. He could try cultivating it.

Yan Zhen opened it, and three options appeared before him: [Learn], [Manifest], and [Reclaim].

Learn? Was this a true “learn it instantly” skill book?!

Yan Zhen’s eyes lit up as he immediately tapped [Learn].

The ‘Mystic Body Art’ manual instantly transformed into specks of radiant light that drifted upwards and rained down upon him from above his head.

Yan Zhen’s mind was quickly flooded with the key essentials of the ‘Mystic Body Art’. In a mere moment, he had fully grasped this special skill, even achieving a “proficient” level of mastery.

This…is formidable!

Yan Zhen clenched his fist and threw a punch forward.

*Swish*

A faint sonic boom sounded in the room – the sheer force of the punch’s shockwave could extinguish a candle flame.

His striking speed had increased somewhat. If his movement speed improved as well, then facing off against someone six or seven levels above would be no issue.

After all, fights between Mystic Disciples were simply trading brute force – if he could move faster, he could attack by surprise before being struck back. Then victory would be his.

Having learned the ‘Mystic Body Art’, Yan Zhen happily bathed, dressed in simple yet stylish casual wear that accentuated his handsomeness, and tidied his hairstyle before heading out.  

As soon as he exited the small courtyard, he was met by Yan Meng’er’s smiling visage approaching.

The young lady wore a peach-pink dress today, her slender waist tightly cinched by a red silk ribbon that made her ample chest curves appear even fuller and rounder.  

Her long, faintly pinkish hair had been meticulously brushed until smooth and lustrous, adorned with a peach blossom hair ornament. Her lovely face bore subtle makeup, with crystal eardrop earrings – evidently having put in great effort with her appearance.

As she neared him, a sweet fragrance wafted over along with her equally sweet voice:

“Cousin, good morning~ Are we going out to play in the city today?”

No, you’re not included. Grandfather only told me to take Huang Fu Wenqing out for a stroll…

Yan Zhen had intended to say that, but seeing the anticipation in Yan Meng’er’s eyes and the effort she had put into her attire, he could only nod:

“Let’s go get Wenqing first.”

“Mm!” 

Yan Meng’er immediately beamed with delight, her eyes crinkling into crescent moons as she clung to his arm in an affectionate manner.  

Feeling the girl’s softness pressed against his arm, Yan Zhen couldn’t help his face heating up as he hurriedly suppressed the stirrings in his heart before heading to the guest courtyard.

Just as they arrived at Huang Fu Wenqing’s room, she emerged.

Huang Fu Wenqing had also put effort into her appearance, having changed from a plain green dress into an elegantly styled jade green one, her hairstyle now a princess braid adorned with a green leaf ornament instead of her usual simple ponytail.  

The hem of her skirt fell just past her knees, revealing her slender, porcelain legs clad in white stockings, with high heels on her feet.  

Simply standing there, the phrase “jade-like, gracefully upright” immediately came to mind.

“Yan Zhen, you’re here.”

Upon seeing her fiance, before Huang Fu Wenqing could feel pleased, she noticed Yan Meng’er also present and shamelessly clinging to Yan Zhen’s arm, immediately dampening her mood.

—She had gotten careless, allowing that vile Yan Meng’er to take the initiative again! She, Huang Fu Wenqing, was Yan Zhen’s fiance. That mere cousin should stand aside! Had she known, she wouldn’t have waited reservedly for Yan Zhen to fetch her, instead going to him directly!

“Are you ready? If there’s nothing else, shall we depart?”  

Hearing Yan Zhen’s words, Huang Fu Wenqing recomposed herself and shyly took his other arm despite her bashfulness.

Truth be told, she disliked being so clingy in public, but to counteract Yan Meng’er she had no choice but to be so bold.

“Let’s go then.”

“……”

With one on each arm, such an arrangement was quite overwhelming for Yan Zhen, a 20-year-old titanium-grade perpetual bachelor. Yet he dared not offend either lady, so he could only proceed this way for now.

Under the bewildered gazes of the servants, the trio exited the Lord’s Manor and ventured into the streets.

“Cousin, where should we stroll to?”

“Let’s grab a bite first, we haven’t had breakfast yet.”

“Good idea, does Wutang City have any specialty snacks?”

“Of course, let’s head to the snack street, the vendors should be open by now.”

Arriving at the snack street, the three browsed and sampled various foods, occasionally feeding each other as they merrily ate and strolled.

“Cousin, have some cherries to cut the grease~”

“Meng’er, you should try these grilled wheat gluten strips – aren’t they fragrant and spicy?”

“Yan Zhen, I want to have a taste of your big sausage, just a little bite~”

“I’ve had that skewer, so I’ll give you the untouched one.”

“N-No need, I can’t eat that much, I just want a taste.”

“Alright then, open wide.”

17 The Beautiful Senior Martial Sister Caressing His Head

How could he react? Of course, he gladly accepted it.

Not only was she extraordinarily powerful, but also breathtakingly beautiful. Who wouldn’t love such a senior martial sister?

However, Yan Zhen appeared hesitant.

Why the hesitation? Because that’s how the script was written.

As a dedicated actor, he naturally had to fully express the nuances.

After contemplating for quite a while, Yan Zhen finally made up his mind, kneeling down and loudly declaring:

“This disciple greets the Senior Martial Sister!”

Bowing, prostrating, kowtowing – he performed almost all the proper rites of accepting a master, except for the “tea ceremony” as there was no tea available, which was an unavoidable circumstance.

“Very good.” Chen Xi nodded in satisfaction, her chilly expression softening somewhat. “Little one, what is your name?”

Yan Zhen had already immersed himself in his role and respectfully answered:

“In response to the Senior Martial Sister, this disciple’s name is Yan Zhen – ‘Yan’ as in the brilliant flames, ‘Zhen’ as in true and real.”

Upon hearing his name, Chen Xi’s eyes glazed over momentarily, recalling her past life, and her expression grew even warmer.

“Yan Zhen? Then I shall call you ‘Zhen’er’. Is that alright?”

“Er, of course it’s alright.”

Although simply calling him Yan Zhen would be more consistent with the script, his grandfather had also called him Zhen’er, so it felt natural.

“Zhen’er, I have never taken in a disciple before. You are the first and will also be the last, holding extraordinary significance. On our first meeting, I have no precious gift to present you. So allow me to instead unravel all the mystical meridian gates throughout your body. I shall make up for the gift later.”

“Unravel all the mystical meridian gates?” Yan Zhen was immensely surprised. “The Senior Martial Sister can even accomplish such a feat?”

Meridian gates referred to the checkpoints along the energy channels. Only meridians with open gates could circulate mystic power, also known as mystic meridians.

The more mystic meridians one had, the faster the mystic power could flow.

Ordinary people only had the eight extraordinary meridians open, while the gates of the twelve primary meridians were usually sealed, only opened by a few rare talents.

However, highly skilled alchemists could forcibly unravel the gates of the twelve primary meridians using external forces, allowing ordinary people to become talents!

Wow, the beautiful senior martial sister is so powerful—even though he had already known this from reading the script.

However, the senior martial sister’s abilities didn’t stop there. Not only could she unravel the gates of the twelve primary meridians, but she could even unravel the gates of the secondary meridians, allowing all the mystic meridians in the body to reach thirty-six, supplemented by seventy-two subsidiary channels. Subsequently, at the Mystic Master realm, he could open one hundred and eight apertures, forming the formidable “Hundred Apertures Gathering Spirit” state.

“It’s just some minor tricks, nothing difficult,” Chen Xi calmly said. “If you wish to learn, I can teach you later.”

“Great, thank you Senior Martial Sister!”

Seeing Yan Zhen’s excitement, Chen Xi found it hard to maintain her expressionless demeanor, coughing lightly before continuing:

“Unraveling the meridian gates will cause intense pain. It’s best to have medicinal aid to alleviate the suffering. Zhen’er, go prepare three stalks of ‘Blood Drop Grass’, two ‘Magnolia Blossoms’, one water-patterned pearl, and a large bucket of water. Once you’ve prepared them, I’ll unravel your meridian gates. These are just common pain-relieving materials that should be easy to obtain.”

“Oh~”

“Oh, right. Zhen’er, come over here for a moment.”

Chen Xi raised her hand beckoning him, causing her wide sleeve to slide down, revealing a dazzlingly fair wrist.

Go over? Yan Zhen blinked, suddenly recalling a similar scene from the script.

She must be about to impart him with the mark allowing free entry into this space.

In the script, however, Chen Xi only let him in during the middle part and imparted the mark then. This was happening sooner.

“Come a bit closer so I can reach you.”

Invisible chains bound Chen Xi in place, restricting her movements, so Yan Zhen had to approach her.

Thus, Yan Zhen took a few more steps forward and knelt before Chen Xi.

Seeing the beautiful senior martial sister’s face up close, Yan Zhen couldn’t help feeling nervous – not acting, but his genuine reaction.

For she was simply too beautiful. Whether it was her silver hair, voluptuous figure, the faintly elegant fragrance wafting from her, or that fresh, transcendent, extraordinary beauty – it all greatly appealed to Yan Zhen.

Yet, in this world without a female lead, he only held reverence for his senior martial sister, harboring no improper thoughts.

Ridiculous ideas like romancing one’s master could lead to a wretched death!

Chen Xi also stared unblinkingly at Yan Zhen, showing no awkwardness even when their eyes met. Instead, she felt an overwhelming urge to caress his head.

In her previous life, she had always wanted to do so, but refrained to maintain her aloof senior martial sister persona.

Though there was one time she did stroke his head, to comfort him after he got injured yet still insisted on fighting, leaving him quite dejected after her scolding.

Little did she expect that single caress would leave her addicted to the feeling.

—No, that would be too abrupt and scare him!

Her rational mind warned, but Chen Xi ultimately couldn’t resist, her jade hand trembling slightly as she placed it on his head, gently stroking his hair.

Her disciple’s soft tresses brushed against her palm, shattering the icy facade on her face in an instant, replaced by a tender warmth that caused the corners of her mouth to unconsciously curve upward into a slight smile.

Seeing him with hunched shoulders, bowed head, obedient yet bashful – such an adorable sight made Chen Xi’s heart want to melt.

“Zhen’er.”

“Present!”

“Stretch out your hand.”

“Yes!”

Yan Zhen seriously complied, like an elementary student eagerly answering the teacher’s question, nervous yet striving to prove himself.

Without removing her caressing hand, Chen Xi extended her other hand and covered Yan Zhen’s palm with her own.

The senior martial sister’s hand is so soft~

As he thought this, Yan Zhen felt a scorching sensation on his palm, as if placing his hand above a burning candle’s flame – searing heat accompanied by a stinging pain.

She must be imparting the “Star Shifting Fire Seal” to him.

After a moment, Chen Xi withdrew her jade hand, and Yan Zhen immediately saw a blazing sun-like mark had appeared on his palm.

“Senior Martial Sister, what is this?”

“The Star Shifting Fire Seal. With this, you can freely enter and exit this place—just channel your mystic power into your hand when using it.”

“That’s so convenient, thank you Senior Martial Sister.”

Chen Xi withdrew her other hand without a sound, striving not to show her reluctance as she coolly said:

“Go on, return once you’ve prepared the materials.”

“Understood, Senior Martial Sister. I’ll prepare them right away.”

With that, Yan Zhen channeled his mystic power into his hand, causing the mark to heat up. In an instant, he vanished from sight.

Chen Xi instinctively reached out to grab him but grasped at emptiness, letting out a soft sigh.

“Why am I in such a hurry? I’m being foolish.”

After all, she had been reborn, so she would have plenty of opportunities to make up for her previous life’s regrets.

This time, she didn’t just want to be his senior martial sister, but to become the most important person in his life.

She no longer wished to serve the tea at his grand wedding, nor receive his and his bride’s bows. Instead, she longed to share the marital cup with him and exchange marriage bows as husband and wife.

Raising the hand that had stroked Yan Zhen’s head, Chen Xi nuzzled her face against it, her expression one of infatuation.

“Zhen’er, your master loves you~”

Chapter 16: Beautiful Master Sect Leader – Chen Xi

In the vast and expansive plaza, the woman’s voice entered Yan Zhen’s ears from all directions, causing his spirit to stir.

This line was far too familiar. Even though he was too far to clearly see the figure in the center of the plaza, Yan Zhen dared to affirm that it was absolutely his beautiful master sect leader.

Thinking of this, Yan Zhen carefully walked forward as the script described, surveying the grid squares beneath his feet.

According to the script, this enormous plaza was actually a holy-realm spirit formation that controlled this space.

Meanwhile, the beautiful master sect leader was on the verge of death when she fused into the crystal space, becoming a spatial spirit in a half-dead, half-alive Schrodinger state. Thus, she could only remain on the sacrificial altar at the formation’s center, unable to leave.

The crystal space was also completely cut off from the outside world, unable to communicate and such.

Only Yan Zhen’s mystic power could seep into the crystal space.

Therefore, by absorbing the wondrous mystic power Yan Zhen cultivated over three years, the beautiful master sect leader finally broke free of her bindings and appeared in the outside world through a projection.

Although he didn’t know why the beautiful master sect leader hadn’t manifested her projection, Yan Zhen instead ran into this crystal space called the “Star-Refining Flame Space.”

The plaza was truly too vast, its area comparable to the Martial Tang City. Just walking it on foot would take who knows how long.

However, with each step Yan Zhen took, the grid square beneath would light up, automatically propelling him forward a distance. It was as if space was contracting, giving him a wondrous feeling.

This was the assistance the beautiful master sect leader controlling the formation gave Yan Zhen.

Shortly after, Yan Zhen arrived before the sacrificial altar’s steps and ascended them.

Only after stepping onto the final step did Yan Zhen finally see the beautiful master sect leader’s appearance clearly.

As the script described, she was beautifully entrancing.

She wore a dress as black as ink, her snowy white hair simply tied up. Her beautiful face was chillingly frosty, those sharp eyes as deep as the starry void.

The black dress had a waist-cinching design that perfectly outlined her curvaceous figure. Especially her chest size, exaggeratedly large to the point of seeming like the dress could burst open at any moment.

However, since she sat cross-legged, the wide skirt completely covered everything below her hips, unable to glimpse the full view.

Yan Zhen stared unblinkingly at the woman who would become his master sect leader, his heart racing rapidly.

Half was acting, half was real.

After all, she was too beautiful!

“—Seen enough?”

The cold and aloof voice tinged with a hint of severity promptly brought Yan Zhen back to his senses. He immediately put on a guarded expression: “Who…who are you? And where is this place?”

The beautiful master sect leader didn’t beat around the bush, directly answering:

“This is an independent space opened by a Mystic Saint expert, also known as the ‘Star-Refining Flame Space’ – the very crystal pendant hanging from your neck.”

“What? A space opened by a Mystic Saint expert?”

Yan Zhen feigned the shock befitting his small fry status, as Mystic Saints were the peak existences of the Mystical Heavenly Continent, anything related to “Saint” was unimaginable.

“The pendant I’m wearing is actually such a powerful thing?”

Pausing, he then asked: “Then who are you, Sister—”

“Sister?” The beautiful master sect leader glanced sidelong at Yan Zhen. “You don’t need to know my identity. For convenience, you can address me as ‘Chen’ – ‘Chen’ from the mortal dust, ‘Xi’ from the morning light.”

“Chen Xi, that’s a nice name…can I call you Sister Chen Xi?”

“As you wish,” Chen Xi said indifferently. “Allow me to ask you this – do you wish to become stronger?”

Yan Zhen was taken aback, then felt a tinge of dejection: “Who doesn’t want to get stronger? It’s just that I don’t know what happened to my body. I was fine before, but then suddenly—”

He clenched his fists, his young face full of unwillingness.

“You can rest assured about this. I won’t be absorbing your mystic power anymore.”

“What do you mean? Wait, don’t tell me the reason I randomly fell into decline was because you…you absorbed my mystic power? You’re the culprit?!”

Yan Zhen’s shock turned to panic, then outrage as he loudly questioned.

Of course, it was an act.

Under Yan Zhen’s perfect acting, a hint of embarrassment flashed across Chen Xi’s perfect face, but she still pretended to be composed: “I was left with no choice but to take your mystic power, you little rascal.”

“You think ‘no choice’ is an excuse?!” Yan Zhen glared with widened eyes, raging furiously like he wanted to devour Chen Xi: “Three years, do you know how I spent those three years? Huh? How much ridicule and mockery I endured, to the point that even—”

Even his childhood sweetheart left me, and my fiancée broke off our engagement…Yan Zhen was about to continue according to the script, but suddenly remembered that Yan Meng’er had a change of heart and became his slave, and Huangfu Wenqing never broke the engagement and also became his slave. The chain reaction from the plot deviation was finally causing problems.

Forget it, if he couldn’t say it, he wouldn’t.

Yan Zhen treated this pause as him being too enraged to speak, his chest heaving violently as he shouted loudly:

“—You vile woman, how will you repay what you owe me?!”

His voice was booming!

“You…you calm down first.” Chen Xi composed herself. “Of course I won’t just take from you for nothing, which is why I summoned you here.”

“Hmph, who would believe a woman who stole three years of my mystic power!”

This brat is really stubborn…Chen Xi muttered softly to herself, the corners of her mouth curving into a barely perceptible smile, while her seemingly indifferent gaze hid a hint of doting affection.

She quickly reined in her emotions, returning to her expressionless demeanor, just like her previous life.

Except in her previous life, hearing the words “vile woman” would’ve angered her to the point of wanting to beat him senseless until his buttocks bloomed. Now, however, she found it humorous instead.

In any case, she would first re-establish their master-disciple relationship.

“Believe it or not, I speak the truth – I can help make you stronger.”

“Who wants your help? Without you, that vile woman stealing my mystic power, I can become strong on my own.”

“Naive.” Chen Xi said coldly. “Even though your talents are truly outstanding, this Mystical Heavenly Continent has never lacked peerless geniuses. To surpass others, external factors beyond just talent are indispensable – mystic cultivation arts, mystic techniques, mystic pills, mystic artifacts…especially mystic arts and techniques. Excellent mystic arts and a superb mystic technique can increase your strength tremendously, jumping one or two levels in battle prowess. As for mystic pills and artifacts, heh, little one, do you know what a Master Alchemist is?”

“Master Alchemist?” Yan Zhen was taken aback, then scoffed: “Who doesn’t know about the noble Alchemists? Not only do they cultivate the mystic dao, but also the Alchemist dao, using Alchemy to refine pills, artifacts, and spirits. Their skills are astounding, coveted by all major powers. Are you a alchemist?”

“What do you think? As long as I have sufficient materials, any mystic pill or artifact you desire, I can refine for you.”

Yan Zhen’s eyes lit up, half-believing and half-doubting: “Really?”

“Why would I deceive you?” Chen Xi acted convincingly. “As long as you are willing to take me as your master, you can choose any higher-grade mystic arts or techniques. Mystic pills and artifacts will also be provided. I can even teach you the Mystic dao. How about it?”

Chapter 15: The Mysterious Crystal Awakens, Beautiful Master Appears

Marrying into Cloud Heaven Palace?

This is supposed to be the abandoned husband path, not the son-in-law path! The script doesn’t have this kind of plot!

Yan Zhen muttered to himself while asking:

“Grandfather, did you agree to it?”

Yan Lie smiled bitterly: “When the National Preceptor speaks, how can we refuse? Even old man Huangfu agreed.”

Normally, if Yan Zhen were to marry into a family, it would be the Huangfu family and he’d become their son-in-law. But the National Preceptor explicitly said for him to marry into Cloud Heaven Palace, which means he won’t have much relation to the Huangfu family anymore.

This went against Huangfu Xiong’s original intention.

However, Cloud Heaven Palace intended to cultivate Huangfu Wenqing as their successor, which was an extremely fortunate matter for the Huangfu family. So he made the difficult choice.

“Zhen’er, grandfather knows you may find it hard to accept marrying into their family for now. But whether it’s for your own good or the family’s, there’s no downside to marrying into Cloud Heaven Palace. Moreover, you’ll still be marrying that Wenqing girl, that won’t change.”

Yan Zhen didn’t really care about marrying in or out, since he came from the modern era and wasn’t as conservative in his thinking.

In his view, being able to unite with someone he liked was the greatest blessing in life, whether it meant welcoming the spouse or marrying into their family could be decided based on circumstances.

However, in the script, the National Preceptor who was also the Cloud Heaven Palace’s Lord had never actively interfered with the marriage between Huangfu Wenqing and Yan Zhen. She had even advised against Huangfu Wenqing’s attempt to cancel the marriage. So why was she acting this way now…?

It seemed the script given by the defective system was inaccurate after all?

First it was Yan Meng’Er, now it’s Huangfu Wenqing’s turn.

[Host, please do not doubt the script, it is absolutely genuine and reliable.]

Sensing Yan Zhen’s doubts, the system immediately manifested to justify itself.

Yan Zhen let out a cold snort.

“I don’t believe you, unless you show me the original novel.”

[The script is identical to the original novel.]

“Then explain why Yan Meng’Er suddenly had a change of heart?”

[Ah well…]

“And also explain why Huangfu Wenqing’s character derailed and she actively kissed me?”

[Well, it’s just…since the system summoned the host, there were some subtle plot fluctuations, but the overall direction remains unchanged.]

“You say that, but when the performance doesn’t match the script, it’s hard for me as a novice actor.”

[Your acting skills have already reached a masterful level. You’ve practically brought the protagonist to life, don’t be so modest.]

“No no, I was just improvising a little bit. It can’t be considered top-notch acting.”

[No, although you just started, you already have the skills of a veteran actor – a true young acting prodigy!]

“Haha, you’re so funny, system~”

The topic was successfully diverted.

“—Zhen’er?”

Yan Lie’s call brought Yan Zhen’s attention back to reality. He got a bit carried away by the system’s flattery and almost forgot he was still in his grandfather’s study discussing with him.

“Grandfather, don’t worry, I do feel some resistance inside, but I also understand the interests involved. I’ll marry into their family then, since Cloud Heaven Palace is a renowned protective sect, even the royal family has to give them due respect. Being favored by them is my blessing.”

“It’s good that you can think this way,” Yan Lie smiled with relief. “Those who achieve great things don’t cling to trivialities. Whether marrying in or out, as long as you become powerful yourself, you’ll be able to stand tall and live with dignity.”

Yan Zhen slightly bowed his head respectfully, “Your grandson will remember your teachings.”

After leaving Yan Lie’s study, Yan Zhen went to the back mountain and dedicated himself to fully performing the senseless rage of a jilted husband-to-be. Only then did he return to his room, lying tiredly on the bed and letting out a long sigh.

Regardless, the marriage was now cancelled and the senseless rage performed. Next, the mysterious crystal bead on his neck should awaken.

He didn’t want to be a weakling anymore. He wanted to cultivate and become strong under the guidance of the beautiful master, taking control of his own destiny!

According to the script, after Yan Zhen raged senselessly and fell asleep from exhaustion, he would converse with a mysterious woman in his dream. Upon waking up, he’d discover the abnormal state of the crystal bead, with the woman’s voice coming directly from within, guiding him to drip his blood onto it.

As the crystal bead awakened, the mysterious woman would appear before Yan Zhen. Seeing his special condition and understanding his plight, coupled with a sense of gratitude, she would accept him as her disciple!

So what he needed to do now was bathe and sleep!

Yan Zhen instructed the servants to draw a hot bath, thoroughly enjoying the bathing luxuries of a wealthy household.

After bathing, Yan Zhen changed into his sleeping robe, dried his hair, and returned to the bed, rolling up his beloved small quilt. Suppressing his excited feelings, he fell into a peaceful sleep.

Who knows how long had passed in the dim night, when a brilliant light suddenly blossomed, illuminating Yan Zhen’s handsome face.

It was the crystal pendant hanging from his neck, its entire body radiating a translucent luster like glazed pottery, shining brightly like the most brilliant star in the night sky.

Waves of invisible, distorting spatial forces radiated from it as the center, silently pulling the sleeping Yan Zhen into the crystal.

Only the mysterious crystal was left floating in midair in the room.

Ding! Key plot begins

Current Plot – Chapter 6: The Mysterious Woman in the Crystal

Performance Requirements: ①Rebuke the mysterious woman for stealing your mystical powers. ②Take the mysterious woman as your master.

Completion: 0%

Yan Zhen was awoken by the system’s prompt. When he opened his eyes, the semi-transparent pale blue system interface was almost in his face, startling him to sit upright. Then he realized his surroundings had drastically changed – he was no longer in his room.

“Where is this?”

It was a vast, spacious plaza. Towering pillars rose at the horizon in all directions, reminiscent of the five fingers Buddha used to subdue Sun Wukong, yet there were more than five.

Through the gaps between the titanic pillars, raging celestial bodies burned intensely – some small, some frighteningly massive. Despite the distance, they exuded an oppressive, scorching presence.

Yan Zhen found this place vaguely familiar, yet couldn’t quite place it, until he saw the beautiful figure seated in meditation on the altar at the plaza’s center.

A flash of enlightenment hit him – he was inside the mysterious crystal bead’s inner space, named the “Stellar Crucible”!

And the beautiful woman seated on the altar was undoubtedly his future beautiful master!

The problem was, at the beginning Yan Zhen couldn’t enter the Stellar Crucible space within the crystal. It was the beautiful master who came out to meet him.

It wasn’t until the middle of their teacher-student relationship that the beautiful master allowed him to enter.

Yet here he was inside already?

Did the plot deviate again?

Looks like the system’s flawed script can’t be relied upon after all, always dropping the ball at critical moments.

Damn it, since he’s already inside, he’ll just have to go with the flow.

Best to take her as his master quickly.

Just as Yan Zhen hesitated on how to address her, a crisp feminine voice as clear as a mountain spring resonated:

“Little one, since you’re already here, you should come over quickly.”

14 Called Off, but Not Completely

Yan Zhen suspected the system might be malfunctioning.

He had gotten a bit carried away, turning the protagonist who was supposed to be unmoved by beauty into a deviant young master embracing girls and toying with their innocence. Not only did he fail to get the wedding called off, but things developed in a strange direction, completely botching the performance. Yet the system suddenly claimed he had succeeded in getting the wedding called off?

The key figure Huangfu Wenqing hadn’t even uttered half the word “call off”. How could it be called off?

The system interface showing 50% plot completion indicated he had indeed succeeded in getting the wedding called off, with the remaining 50% being to propose a “two-year battle agreement” to Huangfu Wenqing.

The two-year battle agreement, an arrangement for the two to fight again after two years – one to redeem their humiliation, the other for marital freedom – could be considered the climax of the early-to-mid story, the crux of the matter.

But Yan Zhen still didn’t understand why the wedding was considered called off. How could he propose the two-year agreement?

Surely it couldn’t be considered a successful call-off just because Huangfu Wenqing had become his slave?

Would she even agree to a two-year agreement now?

Yan Zhen felt dizzy, like he needed to sort this out carefully.

Coming back to his senses, Yan Meng’Er and Huangfu Wenqing had already released his fingers from their mouths, only extending their tongues to lick away the saliva, sending tingles through Yan Zhen. He hastily withdrew his hands.

The two breathtakingly beautiful maidens looked at Yan Zhen with dazed expressions, like children whose toys had been snatched away, seeming to ask “No more intimate games?”

Truth be told, Yan Zhen did want to continue, but if they went further, they might end up going all the way.

That would be no good.

Though they claimed to be his slaves now, he didn’t dare actually touch either of them unless he could ensure it wouldn’t impact the subsequent plot – and this didn’t fit his protagonist persona anyway.

“Uh, it’s almost mealtime, let’s head to the main hall.”

“Meng’Er obeys Cousin’s words~”

Although Yan Meng’Er still wanted to continue their intimacy, she remained very obedient to Yan Zhen’s words.

Previously she always liked acting spoiled with Yan Zhen, demanding this and that. But after putting on the slave collar, she realized being ordered by Yan Zhen brought her even more joy – like opening a new door.

Yan Zhen turned to Huangfu Wenqing:

“Wenqing, you too?”

“…You’re the master, your words are law.”

Huangfu Wenqing had regained her composure after the earlier impulse.

She didn’t regret becoming Yan Zhen’s slave, but had planned to do so after their feelings warmed and they formally united. Now, due to Yan Meng’Er’s provocation, their relationship had taken this turn prematurely. Even for someone as worldly as Huangfu Wenqing across two lifetimes, she felt some awkwardness and couldn’t bring herself to look Yan Zhen in the eye for now.

Yan Zhen also felt awkward since his body was in quite an aroused state – to put it bluntly, he had pitched a tent.

He hoped the two ladies wouldn’t notice his condition in their relative innocence.

Little did he know, the two girls had noticed when they were on his lap and by his feet. Seeing his gradual rising, they secretly giggled inwardly.

–It seems I’m not without appeal to Yan Zhen (Cousin) either~

The three left the room and separate courtyard, returning to the main hall.

……

In the main hall, Yan Lie and Huangfu Xiong were still chatting merrily, but Yan Zhen felt the atmosphere was somewhat different from when they had left.

Seeing Yan Zhen return with Huangfu Wenqing, Yan Lie and Huangfu Xiong both paused, the two elders keenly noticing that Huangfu Wenqing was now standing noticeably closer to Yan Zhen.

–Ah, what a good lad, not bad at all.

–As expected of my grandson Yan Zhen!

The two elders exchanged a look of tacit understanding, both assuming Yan Zhen had worked hard to win Huangfu Wenqing’s heart and silently praising him.

As for Yan Meng’Er, they paid her no mind – Yan Lie knew she liked clinging to Yan Zhen, while Huangfu Xiong just saw her as Yan Zhen’s sister.

“You’re back!” Yan Lie stroked his beard with a chuckle. “Perfect timing, it’s mealtime soon. Let’s have a welcoming feast for Brother Huangfu and Miss Wenqing.”

“Hahaha, good! I’ve been wanting to taste your Yan family’s special ‘Flaming Brew’ again. Looks like I’ll get that wish today.”

“Of course, of course, be it drinks or dishes, you’ll have your fill!”

“Splendid then!”

At the table, Huangfu Xiong and Yan Lie sat together, while Huangfu Wenqing’s seat was arranged next to Yan Zhen, with Yan Meng’Er still clinging to her cousin as usual.

“Cousin~ have some oysters, aah–“

“Uh, thanks, I can feed myself.”

“Say aah~”

Yan Meng’Er picked up a grilled oyster with her chopsticks and brought it to Yan Zhen’s mouth. With no choice, Yan Zhen opened his mouth and ate it.

Huangfu Wenqing, who had been holding back out of deference to the elders present, felt her competitive spirit reignited seeing Yan Meng’Er’s brazenness.

“Yan Zhen, this black chicken soup with wolfberries is very nourishing…want to give it a try?”

“Sure, sure, I can get it myse–ahyumm.”

Before he could finish, Huangfu Wenqing had already scooped up some soup and fed it into Yan Zhen’s mouth.

Sandwiched between the two girls, Yan Zhen felt a bit guilty, especially after the act he had put on for them earlier.

Fortunately, the elders were focused on chatting, business flattery, and toasting each other, paying them little mind.

After the meal, Yan Lie instructed servants to lead the Huangfu family members to the cleaned guest rooms for rest. He then called Yan Zhen to his study, saying he had something to discuss.

Yan Zhen told Yan Meng’Er to go ahead first before coming alone to Yan Lie’s study and asking curiously:

“Grandfather, what did you need to see me about?”

Yan Lie sat behind the desk, his expression somewhat grave.

“Naturally, it’s about your marriage agreement with Miss Wenqing.”

“What about our agreement?”

“Aiya~~~ Everything was going so well until this sudden turn of events…” Yan Lie sighed deeply, looking at his grandson with genuine concern. “Zhen’er, before I say what I’m about to, you need to mentally prepare yourself first.”

Yan Lie’s somber attitude immediately made Yan Zhen think of the marriage agreement – could it be that Old Master Huangfu wanted to call it off?

Not Huangfu Wenqing calling it off herself, but Huangfu Xiong secretly proposing it to let both families save face!

This must be it!

“Go ahead, Grandfather, I’ll be fine.”

“The situation is like this – your current marriage agreement with Miss Wenqing will likely have to be called off.”

Just as he guessed! Yan Zhen’s heart raced with excitement, but his expression showed only puzzlement:

“Why is that?”

“As you know, Miss Wenqing was accepted as the National Preceptor’s personal disciple. But it seems there’s more – the National Preceptor, as the Supreme Leader of Cloud Heaven Palace, also intends to groom Miss Wenqing as the Palace’s heir to eventually take over her position.”

“And then?”

“After hearing about your marriage agreement with Miss Wenqing, she approached Old Master Huang fu and said that as the heir of Cloud Heaven Palace, Wenqing cannot marry out. Even if taking a spouse, the husband must marry into the Palace. So she wants Old Master Huangfu to help Miss Wenqing call off this current agreement, and have you, Zhen’er, marry into Cloud Heaven Palace instead.”

WTF???

Yan Zhen felt like he had been stunned stupid countless times already.

13 Another Slave Girl Joins

Looking at his breathtaking fiancée so close by, Yan Zhen was at a loss for what to do.

Yan Meng’Er voluntarily put on a collar to become his slave, so he could be a little unrestrained with her. He had gradually become accustomed to it through these past few days together.

But Huangfu Wenqing was different. She was the young miss of the prestigious Huangfu family and held the title of Princess. Plus, they weren’t that familiar yet. How could he really take advantage of her?

If Huangfu Xiong found out…well, that old master did seem to encourage them getting intimate.

In any case, he had to get out of this predicament first.

One Yan Meng’Er was already almost more than he could handle. Adding Huangfu Wenqing might truly turn him into a beast!

“Yan Zhen.”

Huangfu Wenqing’s cheeks were flushed, her moist eyes urging him on. Putting on such a pose resembling solicitation was extremely embarrassing for her, a pure maiden in this life and her previous one.

“Um, why don’t we just forget about it? We should properly cultivate our feelings first before engaging in such intimate little games.”

However, hearing this, Huangfu Wenqing immediately felt aggrieved:

“So you’re saying your relationship with Yan Meng’Er is better? But not with me? Is that what you mean?”

Ah this…

“Of course.” Yan Meng’Er pulled Yan Zhen’s finger from her mouth and interjected: “Meng’Er and Cousin Yan Zhen have over a decade of feelings. How can you, a mere official fiancée who has only met him a few times, compare? Moreover, Meng’Er is now Cousin Yan Zhen’s devoted slave, this intimate little game is reserved for a master and servant. You have no part in this – right, Cousin?”

Although Yan Meng’Er’s words were a bit suggestive, Yan Zhen could only nod along, hoping Huangfu Wenqing would give up so this mess of a call-off-the-wedding plot wouldn’t get even more derailed.

If it got any worse, he might just quit the act entirely!

Facing Yan Meng’Er’s taunts, Huangfu Wenqing grit her teeth, suppressing the urge to strike out as she said, half defiantly, half seriously:

“So what if she’s a slave? Then I’ll become Yan Zhen’s slave too, since I’ll be serving him after marrying him anyway!”

Nani?(1) Yan Zhen was stunned, never expecting Huangfu Wenqing to go that far.

Wasn’t she supposed to be the proud genius young miss? Was her character being completely shattered? Or was there an issue with the script?

“You? Heh.” Yan Meng’Er scoffed derisively, pointing to the exquisite petite pink collar around her neck proudly. “See this? This is proof of Meng’Er’s connection to Cousin Yan Zhen. Meng’Er can obey any of Cousin Yan Zhen’s orders unconditionally. You? Heheh.”

Wow, so scornful, dear cousin~ Yan Zhen silently gave her a thumbs up. Surely Huangfu Wenqing would back down now?

Huangfu Wenqing simply glanced at the collar and laughed coldly:

“It’s just a third-grade Mystic artifact, flimsy trash that shatters at a touch. What’s there to be proud of?”

From her previous life’s perspective, a third-grade Mystic artifact was indeed garbage.

“Do you have one?” Yan Ment’Er remained unfazed. “Those who can’t get the grapes say they’re sour~”

“Hmph, watch this.”

As Huangfu Wenqing spoke, the storage ring on her finger flickered and a small vial filled with a pinkish glowing liquid appeared in her palm.

“What’s that?”

Seeing this object, Yan Meng’Er felt a sense of recognition.

Huangfu Wenqing raised her chin slightly and opened the vial’s stopper with one hand.

“Yan Zhen, let me have a drop of your blood.”

Without waiting, she pried Yan Zhen’s arm away from embracing Yan Ment’Er. Her spiritual energy sliced across his fingertip like a blade, drawing a drop of blood that dripped into the vial.

The pinkish glowing liquid inside began to simmer, emitting pink smoke with a sweet fragrance.

Huangfu Wenqing took a deep breath and then downed the entire vial of liquid in one gulp.

“Nngh…”

As soon as she finished drinking it, Huangfu Wenqing showed signs of change. She hugged herself lightly trembling, tightly squeezing her legs together as if suppressing something with great effort.

Soon, Yan Zhen and Yan Meng’Er could clearly see a pinkish glow shining through her dress around her lower abdomen area.

Finally, Yan Ment’Er recalled in utter shock:

“Could that be ‘Demonic Blood of Lust’? You actually have such a thing!”

Yan Zhen didn’t know what this “Demonic Blood of Lust” was, but just hearing it contained the word “demonic” meant it couldn’t be good. Just what was Huangfu Wenqing trying to do?

He got his answer the very next moment.

Huangfu Wenqing’s face flushed red as she slightly lifted the hem of her dress, exposing her smooth, flat lower abdomen.

On her originally flawless belly was now a pinkish heart-shaped emblem.

Oh shit!

Yan Zhen’s jaw dropped. As an LSP(2), he was all too familiar with what this meant.

Huangfu Wenqing licked her lips. Her pupil seemed to take on a vague heart shape, the coquettishness in her eyes almost overflowing.

“Like this, I’m also your slave now, Yan Zhen.”

Her voice was meek and soft.

Huangfu Wenqing had never shown such a bashful, adorable side before.

Hearing her say that, Yan Zhen had a vague sense that he could control her. Following that feeling, he entertained a strange thought.

“Mmnh~”

Huangfu Wenqing let out a coy moan. The pinkish demonic emblem on her abdomen glowed faintly as she seemed to lose strength, collapsing to sit on the floor before falling forward onto Yan Zhen’s lap. She panted lightly, then looked up at him with grievance in her eyes.

“……”

Yan Zhen froze. Had he taken it too far?

Not just Yan Zhen, even Yan Meng’Er was stunned.

Using the Demonic Blood of Lust as a medium to forge a blood pact between two parties, causing one to completely become the other’s slave.

This was a rare treasure used by those depraved mystic cultivators to control their spirit furnaces. Not only could it make the furnaces obey, but it allowed domination over their senses – far more potent than Yan Meng’Er’s modified third-grade collar!

Oh my lemon. (3)

Yan Meng’Er blinked, her tone softening:

“Where…where did you get such a precious thing? Get me one too.”

Finally scoring a point after being suppressed from the start, Huangfu Wenqing was in a great mood, giving an arrogant hum.

This was something she had long prepared.

Huangfu Wenqing cherished this chance at rebirth immensely. Not only did she want to change the tragic ending she and her master had met in her previous life, but she also sought to atone to Yan Zhen for the harm they had caused him.

This “Emblem of Lust” was part of that atonement.

She had originally planned to give Yan Zhen this little surprise after officially establishing their relationship. But using it preemptively worked just as well – at least now this uncouth brat couldn’t keep talking down to her!

“Yan Zhen.”

“Y-Yes!”

“Now I qualify, don’t I?”

“….”

Yan Zhen’s mouth twitched as he felt like slapping himself. But Huangfu Wenqing didn’t give him a chance, grabbing his hand and taking the still bleeding finger into her mouth, softly licking the small wound.

Not wanting to be outdone, Yan Meng’Er bit down on Yan Zhen’s other hand.

With one girl sitting on his lap and the other leaning against his legs, both of Yan Zhen’s hands enveloped in the fragrance of maidens.

Yet Yan Zhen felt no joy at all.

It was ruined, he had taken it too far, everything was derailed!

Look at this development, it was nothing like those free-for-all harem novels. This was straight out of an adult erotic world!

He had botched the performance!

[Ding! System Friendly Reminder: The host has successfully gotten the wedding called off. Please keep up the good work and bravely propose a two-year battle contract to your ex-fiancée.]

Suddenly, the system’s voice rang out in his mind, causing him to slowly form a questioning look on his face.

 

 

---

Nani(1) : “What” (Japanese Word)

LSP (2) :Pervert Protagonist

12 Actively exposing one’s own incriminating evidence

–System! System?

[I’m here, Host.]

–Huangfu Wenqing isn’t following the script, she’s not calling off the wedding. How am I supposed to act this out?

[The system suggests the host can get her to call off the wedding in his own way.]

–Are you messing with me?

[The system has great affection for the host, mwah~]

“……”

Yan Zhen felt exhausted. Other people’s systems were amazingly powerful, but his was useless, only speaking nonsense and going “mwah~”.

He’s not a cute girl, who wants a bunch of code blowing kisses at him?

Nevermind, he’ll have to rely on himself.

Stay calm, analyze.

First, why did Huangfu Wenqing make confession-like remarks and forcibly kiss him?

Does she really like him? Not likely.

As Huangfu Wenqing said, they’ve only met three times.

Although Yan Zhen is very handsome, he’s not handsome enough to be a human aphrodisiac.

Taking a step back, even if she fell for him at first sight, given her arrogant personality, she wouldn’t confess proactively, let alone forcibly kiss him in his room, would she? She’s not a crazy girl!

The great detective Sherlock Holmes once said: “Once you eliminate the impossible, whatever remains, no matter how improbable, must be the truth.”

–Indeed, it must be a seductress ploy for the purpose of calling off the marriage!

Obviously, she first pretended to take the initiative. Once she provoked a reaction from him and turned him into a beast, her attitude would make a 180-degree turn. She’d cry “sexual harassment”, creating the illusion that he suddenly lost control and assaulted her.

This Huangfu Wenqing actually went so far as to use even kissing in order to call off the marriage. She’s really going all out!

He almost fell for her honeyed words. Fortunately, as an outstanding actor himself, he saw through her act!

Thinking about it, he should have taken the initiative and feigned being the one losing control, playing along with her act.

It’s a pity he didn’t react in time and was interrupted by Yan Meng’Er. What a missed opportunity!

This Yan Meng’Er, always improvising unnecessarily. Next time her chicken legs will be docked.

So what should he do now?

Huangfu Wenqing used the seductress ploy to catch him in a compromising act, using that as justification to properly call off the marriage. If he proactively provides the evidence to incrimate himself, wouldn’t that work?

Exactly! Yan Zhen had a sudden realization and quickly formulated a plan.

The two women beside him were worried that he was still angry, seeing him sitting there quietly drinking tea.

Yan Meng’Er came over first, grabbing Yan Zhen’s arm, half pleading half coyly:

“Cousin~ Meng’Er was wrong to cause a ruckus in your room. Meng’Er knows her mistake, will you forgive Meng’Er?”

She wanted to say more, but suddenly Yan Zhen stretched out his long arm, pulling her petite waist towards him.

“Yaah~”

Yan Zhen’s sudden move caused Yan Meng’Er to let out a sweet yelp. Losing her balance, she fell onto Yan Zhen’s lap, leaning against his chest.

This abrupt bliss left Yan Meng’Er stunned.

What’s going on? Cousin Yan Zhen actually took the initiative to embrace her? Is…is she dreaming?

However, Yan Zhen’s entrancing aura, as well as the faint warmth from her waist and buttocks, reminded her that this was reality.

“Cou…Cousin?”

Yan Meng’Er’s cheeks flushed red as she gazed at Yan Zhen in pleasant surprise.

Yan Zhen felt the exquisite softness and elasticity in his hands and on his legs. The maiden’s fragrance was also teasing his nostrils, causing inappropriate thoughts to arise.

Thankfully, he had extremely high self-discipline as an actor, barely suppressing his adolescent impulses. With a gentle smile befitting a graceful gentleman, he said:

“Silly girl, why would I be angry at you? You’re my beloved cousin, my dear Meng’Er.”

As he spoke, he extended his index finger, lightly sliding it across Yan Meng’Er’s lips before slipping it into her mouth.

“Cousin~”

Yan Zhen’s tender words had Yan Meng’Er’s heart melting.

She obediently parted her red, luscious lips, taking his finger into her mouth and allowing the pad of his finger to brush across her teeth and tease her pink tongue.

The lively maiden’s eyes were like a rippling spring, her gaze filled with strands of affection and charm as she gazed adoringly at her beloved.

Huangfu Wenqing was stunned by this sudden act playing out before her.

This…this…Yan Meng’Er and Yan Zhen were actually doing such lewd things right in front of her!

“What…what are you two doing?!”

Hearing his fiancée’s questioning, Yan Zhen seemed to come to his senses. He pulled his finger, glistening with saliva, out of Yan Meng’Er’s mouth and asked puzzledly:

“What’s wrong, Wenqing?”

“You’re asking me what’s wrong? You…you and Yan Meng’Er are cousins, why would you…why would you still–“

Huangfu Wenqing felt both embarrassed, indignant, yet also a tinge of envy.

“–You two…can’t do that!”

“What’s the problem? Yan Meng’Er is my slave, it’s normal to engage in intimate little games.” Yan Zhen appeared nonchalant as he used that wet finger to gently lift Yan Meng’Er’s chin. “Isn’t that right, Meng’Er?”

Yan Meng’Er looked like she had been properly trained, her face flushed as she said:

“Yes, Meng’Er is Cousin Yan Zhen’s slave. He can do anything he wants to Meng’Er~”

“You like me doing this?”

“I like it~”

Yan Meng’Er shyly replied as she looped her arms around Yan Zhen’s neck.

“Cousin, I want more~”

“You’re insatiable.”

Seeing Yan Zhen’s doting expression and Yan Meng’Er’s obedient puppy-like behavior, Huangfu Wenqing felt gutted. She thought by being reborn she could get a head start, but Yan Meng’Er had already beaten her to it?

“Do…do you two do this kind of thing often? If Uncle Yan Lie finds out, he’ll definitely be furious!”

–That’s right, so use this as evidence to threaten me into calling off the marriage! Hahaha~~~

Yan Zhen, thinking his act was flawless, felt smug inwardly but outwardly remained engrossed in toying with the innocent maiden’s lips.

“If you don’t say anything, I won’t say anything, and Meng’Er won’t either. Grandfather won’t find out.”

“That’s right.”

Yan Meng’Er mumbled in agreement around the finger in her mouth. She then glanced sideways at Huangfu Wenqing, the corner of her mouth curving into an arrogant smirk.

It was the victor’s disdain for the defeated.

Huangfu Wenqing’s competitive spirit was instantly ignited.

She frowned tightly, biting her lower lip, staring intently at the intimate pair.

After a moment, as if having made a decision, she loudly exclaimed:

“I want that too!”

Go on, go tattle, quick–wait, what did you say?

Yan Zhen blinked to make sure he hadn’t misheard and quickly asked:

“Wenqing, what do you want too?”

Huangfu Wenqing’s face flushed as she mustered her courage and said:

“I want to engage in those intimate little games with you too.”

Having said that, she sat down next to Yan Zhen, closed her eyes, leaned her face in close with her vermilion lips slightly parted, as if welcoming his finger’s exploration.

Such boldness from a breathtaking beauty would normally drive any man wild with desire. But Yan Zhen’s expression stiffened, as if struck by lightning.

What the hell! The point was the little games? It was supposed to be evidence, dammit!

Wasn’t she supposed to use this evidence to force him to call off the wedding? Now that he was voluntarily exposing this evidence, she just brushed it off and went with it instead? What’s going on!

Just how much do you enjoy playing these little games?

Yan Zhen was on the verge of a breakdown.

Chapter 11 -The Battlefield Between the Fiancée and the Childhood Sweetheart

At the back hill of the Lord’s Mansion, Yan Meng’Er was leaning against a giant rock, idly waiting there. 

As someone who had relived this life, she clearly knew that today was the day when Huangfu Wenqing would bring people to call off the wedding.

However, in her previous life, Huangfu Wenqing had brought elders from the Cloud Heaven Palace, but this time she came with members of the Huangfu family. While there might be some minor differences, Yan Meng’Er was certain that Huangfu Wenqing was definitely here to call off the wedding with the Yan family.

Huangfu Wenqing herself was beautiful, highly talented in cultivation, and was accepted as a direct disciple by the National Preceptor. She was also bestowed the title of Princess by the King. With all these advantages, she had developed an extremely arrogant personality and would never accept the marriage arranged by her family.

But she had failed to consider how much humiliation such a high-profile and forceful calling off of the wedding would bring to the Yan family and Yan Zhen!

That woman was someone Yan Meng’Er would never forgive. If she had the chance, she would definitely make her pay the price!

However, there were more important matters at hand right now.

After being rejected, Yan Zhen would run to this back hill to vent his frustrations, so Yan Meng’Er had come here early to wait for him.

Once Yan Zhen had vented, she would immediately embrace him and say the words she hadn’t been able to say in her previous life:

“Don’t be sad, Cousin. You still have Meng’Er. Meng’Er will always be with you!”

That way, Cousin Yan Zhen would belong solely to her. Meng er’s great victory!

Oh, no, wait, there was also her cousin-sister’s share.

It should be said that Cousin Yan Zhen now belonged only to her and her cousin-sister. A great victory for the sister duo!

As she thought about this, she couldn’t help but laugh out a “hehe” sound, which seemed a little eerie in this desolate back hill, like a mountain witch.

However, no matter how long she waited, no one showed up for over an hour.

“Strange, I remember in the previous life, as soon as Huangfu Wenqing entered, she announced she was here to call off the wedding. After a brief argument, my cousin angrily set up a two-year battle agreement with her, drove her out, and then came here…”

Yan Meng’Er jumped onto the rock and looked towards the mansion:

“Why hasn’t Cousin shown up yet? I hope nothing has happened.”

The more she thought about it, the more uneasy she became. Yan Meng’Er stamped her feet and hurriedly returned to the mansion.

When she reached the main hall, she saw Huangfu Xiong chatting happily with her Grandfather Yan Lie, not at all like he had come to call off a wedding. The parties involved, Huangfu Wenqing and her Cousin Yan Zhen, were nowhere to be seen.

–What’s going on? Huangfu Wenqing isn’t calling off the wedding? That’s impossible!

Yan Meng’Er suddenly had a bad premonition. She quickly inquired about their whereabouts from her father but only received the information that “The Young Master took Miss Huangfu for a stroll.”

–Could it be that Huangfu Wenqing planned to discuss the calling off of the wedding in private with Cousin Yan Zhen? Had she changed her mind?

Yan Meng’Er circled the mansion but didn’t see them. Her womanly intuition told her to check Cousin Yan Zhen’s courtyard.

So she went to the small courtyard where Yan Zhen lived. With her previous life’s Mystic Lord cultivation, she immediately sensed the auras of Huangfu Wenqing and Yan Zhen – they were in the room!

–Damn that vile Huangfu Wenqing, she won’t get away with hurting my Cousin Yan Zhen!

Bang!

Yan Meng’Er activated her cultivation to break down the door and prepared to face off against that wicked woman. But when she fixed her gaze on the scene on the bed, she was stunned.

Huangfu Wenqing was on top of Yan Zhen, their faces almost touching. One hand had their fingers intertwined, the other hands also clasped together, looking intimately close, like passionate lovers unable to restrain their affections and about to secretly become intimate.

The noise of the door breaking alerted Huangfu Wenqing and Yan Zhen, who both turned their heads towards Yan Meng’Er.

Yan Meng’Er pointed at them, incoherently: 

“You…you two–“

Yan Zhen felt greatly embarrassed and instinctively explained:

“Meng’Er, it’s not what you think!”

Huangfu Wenqing was initially startled, but after recognizing Yan Meng’Er, she quickly regained her composure. She slowly got off Yan Zhen, straightening her dress, and said displeasedly:

“Which maid are you? Barging into someone’s room without even knocking on the door, you’re really ill-mannered!”

She had wanted to seize this perfect atmosphere to kiss Yan Zhen again, but that wretched maid ruined it. How vexing!

“Who’s a maid?!”

Hearing this, Yan Meng’Er flew into a rage. This evil woman dared to pin down her Cousin Yan Zhen – it was truly outrageous…infuriating.

“I am Cousin Yan Zhen’s beloved sister, Yan Meng’Er! You of the Huangfu family, if you force my Cousin Yan Zhen into anything he dislikes, I will not let you off!”

“How dare you talk like that with just a Mystic Disciple’s eighth-level cultivation? You’re not even fit to present my shoes.”

Huangfu Wenqing revealed her original arrogant demeanor, looking down at Yan Meng’Er from her lofty position as a five-star Mystic Cultivator.

“Hmph, so what if you’re a five-star Mystic Cultivator? That’s just resources stacked up, who knows how substantial you really are?! Just like someone’s…” 

Yan Meng’Er confidently thrust out her 36D chest, which jiggled lightly.

“You! Foul-mouthed brat, then let me discipline you on Yan Zhen’s behalf, so you understand what propriety is.”

Huangfu Wenqing slapped the bed and shot out, palming toward Yan Meng’Er.

The force of the wind lashed out. Yan Meng’Er refused to back down, meeting it palm-to-palm with her own cultivation. 

But hers was not a regular palm strike, it was the Yan family’s quintessential ‘Flame Palm’ mystic art, with scorching mystic power circulating in her palm.

The two palms collided with a bang, and while Huangfu Wenqing just swayed slightly, Yan Meng’Er was forced back three steps.

After all, there was a vast gap in their cultivation levels, and the low-level ‘Flame Palm’ couldn’t bridge that difference.

“A mere Mystic Disciple daring to learn mystic arts, no wonder you’re so arrogant. But I know mystic arts too!”

Saying this, Huangfu Wenqing formed a sword-finger, blue light faintly emerging from her fingertips with a whooshing wind sound.

“The ‘Wind Radiance Finger’ of Cloud Heaven Palace?”

Yan Meng’Er’s eyes narrowed as she prepared to go all-out by using the higher-level Mystic Scholar mystic art to counter, which could thoroughly overwhelm normal mystic arts.

As the two women gathered their forces for attack, about to clash-

“–You two, stop right there!” 

The rebuke caused both women to snap out of it. It was Yan Zhen, who couldn’t stand to watch anymore:

“Do you two want to demolish my room by fighting in here? If you want to fight, take it outside. I don’t care about either of you!”

Hearing Yan Zhen’s clearly displeased tone, Huangfu Wenqing and Yan Meng’Er quickly withdrew their mystic powers, not daring to continue their ruckus.

“Sorry, Cousin, Meng’Er was a bit impulsive. Please don’t be angry, okay?”

“I’m also…that is…my apologies, for causing you embarrassment.”

The two women who had been at odds just moments ago became timid, not daring to let out even a breath.

Yan Zhen let out a cold snort, got off the bed, went to the table and sat down. He picked up the teapot and poured himself a cup of tea, drinking it down in one gulp.

It looked cool, but he was actually quite flustered.

–What was this situation now? Huangfu Wenqing had just kissed him and pushed him down, saying she wanted to consummate the marriage. Then she got into a confrontation with Yan Meng’Er…

So this was the predicament, right?

But a predicament formed by his supposed ex-fiancée who should have called off the wedding, and his childhood friend who had originally abandoned him – how did that seem so strange?

The key was, where was the plot about calling off the wedding?!

Chapter 10 Let’s Try the Bridal Chamber

I see, she wants to test his attitude towards this marriage arrangement.

If he stubbornly clings on, then she’ll have to use some devious means to break off the engagement!

Yan Zhen pondered for a bit, and gave a response that fit both the plot and his character:

“I don’t like having my lifelong affairs arranged by others. However, considering my grandfather’s feelings, I will do my best to fulfill his wishes.”

Huang Fu Wenqing’s eyelashes fluttered, and her gaze became even more gentle.

It seems he, like her, doesn’t want his marriage to be arranged. She was such a fool in her previous life, never considering his feelings before trying to break off the engagement, making him suffer so much injustice.

The more she thought about it, the more guilty and sympathetic towards Yan Zhen she felt.

“I’m sorry, Yan Zhen.”

“It’s not your fault, you don’t like this marriage either, do you?”

“I… “

I really like it, because you are the one I’m engaged to.

Huang Fu Wenqing wanted to say that, but was afraid of startling Yan Zhen, as it was too sudden.

It’s better to take it slow and get closer to him –

No, that’s not right! Huang Fu Wenqing suddenly realized that since she had reincarnated, she should be more direct. Dragging it out would allow other women to get ahead.

She knew better than anyone how charming her beloved was. 

Her master, who was both the current Imperial Preceptor and the Grand Mistress of the Cloud Heaven Palace, she was cold in temperament and single-mindedly cultivated, remaining unmarried even in her thirties, unmoved by the fervent pursuit of various Sword Kings, Knife Kings, Pill Kings and Array Kings. Yet it was the then merely Mystic Scholar-level Yan Zhen who had captured her heart.

Even her little junior martial uncle, ranked 9th among the “Eight Immortals of the Cloud”, also harbored subtle feelings for Yan Zhen…

Besides that, there was also the white-rich beauty manager of the Cross-domain business association, who on the surface addressed Yan Zhen as brother and sister, but everyone could see the romantic interest in her gaze towards him, except Yan Zhen himself.

Not to mention the Queen of the neighboring kingdom, known as the “Thousand Slaughters”, and the Queen’s mortal enemy, who were also not unfamiliar with Yan Zhen.

If he hadn’t been so focused on cultivation, he would have had a harem by now.

Now that she has reincarnated, she should seize this rare opportunity, take the lead, and secure a future happiness for herself and her master!

Huang Fu Wenqing composed herself, then shyly but earnestly said:

“This marriage arrangement, I don’t find it unpleasant at all, especially after seeing you again!”

This was said in a somewhat roundabout way, but with some thought it could be understood. However, Yan Zhen found it incomprehensible.

How could this sound like she had feelings for him? Huangfu Wenqing should be here to break off the engagement, shouldn’t she?

Yan Zhen secretly glanced at the system interface displaying the script, searching for usable lines of dialogue, but found not a single one!

In fact, ever since leaving the hall, he had been improvising the whole time.

– System, what kind of script did you give me?

【Improvisation can truly test one’s acting skills. Keep it up, host! Mwah~】

Damn @#$%^&* this f*cking system!.

Yan Zhen cleared his throat and said:

“Wasn’t this our first time meeting?”

Huangfu Wenqing smiled and shook her head:

“Of course not, this is our third time meeting.”

Third time? Don’t lie to me, I’ve read the entire script, and this is the only time.

Yan Zhen looked puzzled. Huang Fu Wenqing took the initiative to explain:

“When I was five years old, it was my grandfather’s birthday, and Uncle Yan Lie brought you along too. I remember, I accidentally fell into the pond back then, and the new dress I had just bought was all soaked. I cried loudly, but you ran to the shore and pulled me up, comforted me, and even gave me a candied haw to eat… That was our second meeting.”

Huh, was there such an event? It’s not written in the script! Could it be an extra plot? I was too careless, didn’t expect there to be an extra!

– System, quickly patch up my script!

【Your request has been received, please wait patiently.】

“The second time? Then what about the first time?”

Huang Fu Wenqing chuckled:

“The first time was naturally when we were just born, didn’t Uncle Yan Lie tell you? When we were just born, we both cried loudly, but when the elders put us together, we immediately stopped crying and even reached out our little fingers to hook together. That’s why they took it upon themselves to arrange our marriage engagement… I’ve watched the recordings made by my grandfather many times, and every time I see you, I feel a sense of predestined connection.”

The young lady turned to look at the young man, her gaze burning with intensity.

Both her words and her eyes were conveying her current feelings.

Yan Zhen was not the wooden male lead of a harem novel, so naturally he could hear the implications in her words. But he also knew that “she likes me” is one of the three major illusions in life.

Moreover, the Huang Fu Wenqing in the script was not like this at all. Even if there was a gap between the script and reality, it shouldn’t be this big.

Don’t be deceived, this is a sweet trap, Huangfu Wenqing is just trying to lure him into being a lecher. He just needs to cooperate with her performance.

“Ahem, so Wenqing, what are you trying to say?”

“Don’t you understand yet?”

Huang Fu Wenqing tightened her grip on Yan Zhen’s hand, her fingers slowly intertwining with his.

The nearly twenty-year-old bachelor Yan Zhen had never experienced such a situation before, and his body stiffened involuntarily.

“I understand, but not completely.”

“Hehe, then turn your head and look into my eyes.”

After a light chuckle, Huangfu Wenqing reached out her free hand and turned Yan Zhen’s face towards her without asking.

Their eyes met, and Yan Zhen almost drowned in the endless affection in his fiancée’s gaze.

The delicate white hand on his face was as smooth as jade, emanating a faint fragrance, and the soft thumb gently caressed his cheek, sending tingling sensations.

“Do you understand now? If you still don’t, then…”

Before she could finish, Yan Zhen saw Huangfu Wenqing slowly lean in towards him, and then felt a soft, jelly-like sensation on his lips.

She… she kissed him?

Yan Zhen’s eyes widened in disbelief.

Is this an illusion? How could Huang Fu Wenqing possibly kiss him?

Even if it’s a beauty trap, the sacrifice is too great. Her character wouldn’t do something like this!

However, the beautiful face in front of him and the softness on his lips were reminding him that this is reality.

This aloof fiancée, the master’s disciple, the princess bestowed by the king, who should have come to break off the engagement according to the script, was now gently sucking on his lips, kissing him tenderly and clumsily, yet full of affection.

She was confessing to him in this direct manner.

They’ve only met a few times!

– Should I continue to cooperate with her performance, or firmly resist?

– But is this even a performance anymore? If not, then what should I do? But what if it is?

– I, I, I…

Yan Zhen was dazed, momentarily frozen in place, allowing Huang Fu Wenqing to kiss him, even unaware of the small tongue that pried open his teeth and slipped inside.

After a long while, their lips parted, leaving a silver thread of saliva between them.

Both their faces were flushed to the ears, their panting breaths hot and moist against each other.

“Now, do you understand?” Huangfu Wenqing bit her lip shyly. “If you still don’t, then…”

She suddenly pushed Yan Zhen down onto the bed, then climbed on top of him, leaning close to his ear to whisper the rest:

“…then let’s just consummate the marriage right here.”

Chapter 9 – Hold my hand

Why look at my room? There’s nothing in my room.

No lewd things, no good stuff either…probably.

Wait, could it be that Huang Fu Wenqing has no excuse to divorce, so she wants to find inappropriate things in my room and claim I lack moral integrity, giving her justification to cancel the marriage?

Ah yes, as the esteemed daughter of a major clan, she would indeed have such craftiness.

Those who only shriek “How dare you hit me? Even my dad has never hit me!” are merely shrill women, not true noble ladies.

Learned something new.

“Young Master Yan Zhen?”

“Oh, if Miss Wenqing wants to go to my room, that’s fine. But let me be blunt first – there’s nothing interesting in there, you might just leave disappointed.”

Yan Zhen showed no difference in expression, while Huang Fu Wenqing maintained her noble lady demeanor.

“It’s alright, I just want to find a quiet place to sit for a bit.”

Then why not the rear gardens?!

The gardens have good scenery and environment, perfect for sitting as long as you want. But she insists on going to my room – surely she has another motive, right?

Yan Zhen felt he had seen through Huang Fu Wenqing’s intention.

“Well…this way, please.”

“Mm, okay.”

Just as Yan Zhen was about to step forward, he saw Huang Fu Wenqing extend her jade-like hand towards him, the long sleeve sliding down to reveal a fair wrist adorned with a crystal bracelet.

What does this mean? She wants money?

I’m broke.

Yan Zhen tilted his head: “This is…?”

“Aren’t you going to hold my hand?”

Huang Fu Wenqing tilted her head as well, posing the question back as if it was natural.

Why should I hold your hand? You’re not a little girl!

Suddenly, Yan Zhen had another realization.

This must be a noble social etiquette!

When escorting a lady around one’s home, holding her hand shows one’s gentlemanly grace, something like that.

Phew, he almost deviated from his “noble young master” persona. No matter what, as the lord’s son, he was different from ordinary folks.

“My apologies for being rude.”

Yan Zhen composed himself and seriously took Huang Fu Wenqing’s hand, feeling like he was grasping warm jade – smooth and supple.

The moment their hands touched, Huang Fu Wenqing’s heart skipped a beat, and her ears quickly reddened and grew hot under her hair.

Even though she suggested holding hands, she didn’t expect the “effect” to be so intense, making her so happy she could hardly suppress a sweet smile.

In her previous life, Yan Zhen had never been so gentle towards her…whether before or after she fell for him, the position she held in Yan Zhen’s heart was far below that of her mentor.

Their only intimate contact was when Yan Zhen rescued her with a princess carry from the mouth of a ferocious beast in the forbidden grounds, lasting only the duration of that battle.

She dreamed of that scene countless times, having to bathe and change clothes each time she awoke.

Huang Fu Wenqing restrained her inner joy, maintaining an elegant faint smile as she followed Yan Zhen towards his small courtyard residence.

As Yan Zhen said, his living quarters had no particularly noteworthy scenery.

As the lord’s son, his lodgings were just more spacious than his peers’, with more luxurious decor and finer furniture – commonplace for noble scions.

Yan Zhen held Huang Fu Wenqing’s hand as they passed through the standalone courtyard and entered his room.

“This is it.” Yan Zhen took the initiative to introduce. “The study area is to the left, bedroom to the right.”

Huang Fu Wenqing silently surveyed the room arrangement, seeming to take in every detail of Yan Zhen’s living environment.

This was the place he had lived for fifteen years, pervaded by his aura everywhere.

Huang Fu Wenqing closed her eyes, deeply inhaling as if to absorb the “Yan Zhen essence” from the air into her body.

“Miss Wenqing, is something wrong?”

“No, I just walked too quickly and got a bit winded.”

“Er…”

According to the novel, Huang Fu Wenqing was currently a five-star Mystic cultivator, so running a few miles wouldn’t tire her.

Yan Zhen was speechless but didn’t expose her lie.

Suddenly, he realized he was still holding her hand and quickly let go.

Strangely though, when he released her, Huang Fu Wenqing didn’t let go.

This great lady of the Huang Fu clan naturally grasped Yan Zhen’s hand, looking around his room with obvious interest, like an old lady visiting a grand garden and marveling at everything.

Yan Zhen’s mind became more active.

It seemed she really did want to find his “inappropriate possessions” in the room, which is why she scrutinized every corner so meticulously, more thorough than an elementary school detective!

But he truly didn’t collect things like erotic paintings or novels. After all, Yan Zhen used to be very close to his cousin Yan Menger, so he never needed such “paper companions.”

How careless of him!

If I had known earlier, I should have bought some erotic paintings and novels from the streets yesterday to give Huang Fu Wenqing an excuse for divorce, allowing the plot to proceed smoothly.

What do I do now? If she can’t find any inappropriate items, does Huang Fu Wenqing have other tricks up her sleeve?

In the small study room, Huang Fu Wenqing insisted on dragging Yan Zhen around for a full hour, making one want to yawn.

“Haah~”

And she did yawn, though lightly, covering her small mouth with her hand in a reserved yet elegant manner befitting a noble lady.

“Pardon me, I’m a bit tired.” Huang Fu Wenqing gave a faint smile. “Young Master Yan Zhen, may I rest here for a bit?”

What is she up to this time? Yan Zhen didn’t quite understand but still nodded.

“Of course, if you don’t mind, you can sleep on my bed.”

“Then I thank Young Master Yan Zhen.”

Huang Fu Wenqing’s manner was impeccable as she pulled Yan Zhen’s hand towards the bedroom area on the right.

Still not letting go? How long does she plan to hold my hand? Yan Zhen was stumped until another realization struck him!

Bed, hand-holding, resting…putting it together, the conclusion was: she wanted to lure him into making a mistake!

In other words, a honeytrap!

Coming to his room, giving him subtle hints, tempting him to make a move.

Once he truly did, oh no, he’d be done for. The five-star cultivator Huang Fu Wenqing would immediately subdue him and take him before the two elders, accusing him of lacking virtue to justify a divorce!

So this is the craftiness of a noble daughter? Quite insidious, but I like it!

The two arrived beside the bed.

Huang Fu Wenqing sat down like she was in her own home, finally releasing his hand, only to say:

“Young Master Yan Zhen, you must be tired too. Have a seat with me.”

She patted the space beside her.

According to his persona, Yan Zhen should blush and refuse. But instead, he casually complied and sat next to Huang Fu Wenqing without a change in expression.

As soon as he sat down, Huang Fu Wenqing grabbed his hand again.

Ah, here comes the hint.

No need to rush, let me play along!

“Young Master Yan Zhen, no, we shouldn’t be so formal between us. May I call you Yan Zhen? And you can call me Wenqing.”

“Okay, Wenqing~”

Those two syllables made Huang Fu Wenqing’s heart skip a beat.

In her previous life, he had never once called her “Wenqing”, always using the distant “Miss Huang Fu.”

Being able to reincarnate was truly wonderful!

Huang Fu Wenqing bit her lip before posing a question:

“Yan Zhen, what are your thoughts on our marriage?”