Category: They All Want to Be My Female Lead

110 The Mother-in-Law’s Interrogation

The dishes on the table were simple, not at all like a feast for guests, more like a family gathering, making Yan Zhen feel less like a guest and more like someone crashing a meal.

—Speaking of which, where is Instructor Yu Xuan? Didn’t they say she was out of seclusion? Why wasn’t she invited to eat with us?

Yan Zhen felt a pang of suspicion. He ate the pastry-like dishes reservedly, saying nothing.

The five women chatted occasionally, glancing at Yan Zhen from time to time. The atmosphere was quite harmonious, which only made him feel more like an outsider.

After the meal, watching his mother-in-law and the others elegantly wipe their mouths and sip tea, Yan Zhen couldn’t hold back any longer.

“Um, Mother-in-law…”

As soon as he spoke, all five women looked at him. Except for the stern Clan Head Mother-in-law, their eyes held a strange glint.

Yan Zhen felt embarrassed, his face flushing slightly, but he continued, “Is Instructor Yu Xuan out of seclusion? I’d like to see her.”

The Clan Head Mother-in-law put down her teacup, wiped the corner of her mouth with a tissue, and said indifferently, “Xuan’er is out, but if you want to see her, you’ll have to answer some of my questions first.”

—I knew it wouldn’t be that simple.

Yan Zhen’s expression remained unchanged as he said respectfully, “Please ask, Mother-in-law.”

“It’s a bit early to call me Mother-in-law.” Clan Head Yu Lu said expressionlessly, “You are indeed a promising young man, meeting our Yu family’s criteria for selecting a husband. And Xuan’er likes you. If you were willing to marry into the Yu family, it would be a joyous occasion for everyone. The prerequisite is, are you truly willing to marry in?”

—Uh… am I exposed?

Yan Zhen broke into a cold sweat, blinked, and said brazenly, “Why do you say that, Mother-in-law?”

“The Yu family has always chosen the best for our sons-in-law, but you… you’re a bit too outstanding.” The Clan Head Mother-in-law continued, “Only sixteen years old, cultivating physique, Mystic Power, and soul simultaneously, and achieving remarkable progress in all three, proves your cultivation talent is extremely high. At the same time, mastering a flying movement technique at the Mystic Master realm shows your strong comprehension skills. In actual combat, you can even defeat a four-star Mystic General, indicating considerable battle experience. Of course, the most terrifying thing is that you’ve actually refined three Extreme Flames. As a mere Mystic Master, possessing the power to intimidate even Mystic Ancestors… Such talent would shine brightly even in the Sacred Ground. Our Yu family… might not be able to keep you.”

Hearing the Clan Head Mother-in-law’s praise, Yan Zhen felt a little embarrassed and said shyly, “You flatter me, Mother-in-law. I’m not that outstanding, just… averagely outstanding, hehe~”

Seeing his smug expression, Dean Yu Qing couldn’t help but roll her eyes and let out a “tsk.”

Shui Bailan looked at her cute nephew-in-law, then at her disdainful best friend, and a bold thought occurred to her: Could Yu Qing actually have a thing for this slightly immature yet somewhat mature-looking young man?

Grand Elder Yu Yan maintained her smiling expression, showing no intention of intervening.

Cousin Yu Die curiously looked Yan Zhen up and down, secretly surprised to hear he possessed three Extreme Flames.

She didn’t know much about Extreme Flames, but a Mystic Master capable of intimidating Mystic Ancestors? Was that even possible?

Clan Head Yu Lu remained unmoved by Yan Zhen’s attempt at being cute. “Men hold a low status in our Yu family. No matter how outstanding you are, once you enter the Yu family, you are just a son-in-law who needs to dutifully serve the family, working hard without complaint… Do you think you can endure that?”

Yan Zhen fell silent.

The Yu family was matriarchal, and sons-in-law held very low status. For example, his deceased father-in-law’s status was even lower than his sister-in-law, Shui Bailan.

The Clan Head Mother-in-law had no affection for him, and he couldn’t meet Instructor Yu Xuan frequently. He spent most of his years working outside the family, needing to achieve merit to gain the Yu family’s support, little better than a vassal. This was why he ultimately died during a demon subjugation mission.

Therefore, it wasn’t uncommon for sons-in-law to leave the Yu family after becoming powerful enough, joining other factions for greater benefits.

The Yu family wasn’t surprised by this and wouldn’t hunt down traitors, because sons-in-law had no access to the family’s core secrets or power. They were basically breeding tools, largely useless after producing an heir.

But Yan Zhen couldn’t say much, because the Yu family had their reasons for doing things this way.

First, the Yu family bloodline only produced female offspring. Second, their core technique, the Timely Rain Heavenly Scripture, could only be cultivated by women. Third, and most secretively, women cultivating the Timely Rain Heavenly Scripture were best off remaining virgins. Once their virginity was lost, their vital weakness would be exposed, and during dual cultivation, they could be easily controlled by their partner, rendered powerless.

To continue the family line, they couldn’t avoid intimacy, so to protect themselves, they established this twisted family rule.

Sons-in-law only needed excellent genes. After fulfilling their duty, they were sent away to work. Loyal ones were kept; disloyal ones were kicked out.

Under such rules, an even more twisted practice emerged—alchemical gestation.

Without breaking the woman’s virginity, alchemy techniques were used to extract the man’s bloodline essence and inject it into the woman’s body to cultivate a fetus. Delivery was then performed via C-section.

This way, the woman remained a virgin, her weakness unexposed, and her cultivation intact.

This emotionally detached Clan Head Mother-in-law had given birth to Instructor Yu Xuan in this manner.

In the script, Instructor Yu Xuan herself told Yan Zhen this. She didn’t want to accept the family’s arrangement and marry someone she didn’t love, so she asked Yan Zhen to participate in the husband selection ceremony and win, buying her time until she was strong enough to break free from the family’s constraints.

Moved by her words, Yan Zhen agreed.

—Ahem, getting sidetracked.

Yan Zhen refocused, looked up at the Clan Head Mother-in-law, and said seriously, “Honestly, no normal man could endure that, unless they had ulterior motives.”

Clan Head Yu Lu stared sharply at Yan Zhen. “So, you really intend to take Xuan’er away, don’t you?”

Dean Yu Qing gasped, jumping to her feet like a startled cat, glaring at Yan Zhen. “He dares!”

Shui Bailan, sitting beside her, quickly pulled her back down. “Yu Qing, don’t get excited. Let’s hear what Yan Zhen has to say first.”

“Ahem, I didn’t say that,” Yan Zhen felt awkward, caught off guard. “I will only do my utmost to make Instructor Yu Xuan happy. Nothing else matters.”

Grand Elder Yu Yan nodded slightly, smiling. “I like the sound of that.”

Clan Head Yu Lu narrowed her eyes. “So you’re willing to wrong yourself for Xuan’er?”

“Naturally.” Yan Zhen puffed out his chest. “I’m willing to give everything for Instructor Yu Xuan.”

—Anyway, I can’t resist now. Saying more is pointless. When my fists are strong enough, words won’t be necessary.

However, the Clan Head Mother-in-law continued to stare at him, her eyes filled with suspicion. “But I still can’t rest assured. If you decide to leave, Xuan’er will definitely go with you.”

Previous sons-in-law were chosen by the Yu family, devoid of affection. Even if they left, they wouldn’t take a Yu woman with them. But Yan Zhen and Instructor Yu Xuan were different; they were in love and might elope.

Yan Zhen thought for a moment and cupped his hands. “Then please give me a reason not to leave, Mother-in-law.”

109 Meeting the Mother-in-Law

The Yu family residence wasn’t located within the Sacred Ground Academy or the Jiā Lán Sacred Ground itself, but on Tian Shui Lake, the largest lake in the central region of Jiā Lán Continent.

Tian Shui Lake spanned a thousand miles, dotted with islands of various sizes. The Yu family resided on the central island, Yu Tian Island.

The “Yu Heaven Pavilion” where the Outer Academy Dean resided was named after this island.

A massive rain cloud perpetually hovered above the island, showering the surrounding ten miles with a gentle rain.

This was the Yu family’s protective formation. Its core was a Tier 8 Mystic Tool, capable of blocking even Mystic Venerables when fully activated. Normally, it created illusions, sufficient to trap and kill anyone below the Mystic King realm.

Grand Elder Yu Yan piloted the small airship at low altitude over the water’s surface, the wake behind it creating a thrilling sensation, like a speedboat race.

It was evident that Grand Elder Yu Yan was enjoying herself, a constant smile on her lips.

Entering the rain-covered area, the airship slowed down, a Mystic Power barrier automatically forming around it, shielding them from the rain as they slowly approached Yu Tian Island.

Yan Zhen looked out the window, watching the countless raindrops fall onto the lake’s surface, creating ripples, reminding him of the misty rains of Jiangnan.

“This rain… it’s so poetic, like a painting.”

“Cousin-in-law has good taste. Our Yu family’s ‘Rain Flower Formation’ was personally created by the Supreme Elder.”

Yan Zhen nodded slightly. He naturally knew it was arranged by Supreme Elder Yu.

In the script, commissioned by Instructor Yu Xuan, Yan Zhen went to the Yu family residence to participate in the husband selection ceremony. The first trial was to pass through this rain screen using his own strength and reach the official venue on Yu Tian Island.

He wondered if he would also have to undergo a trial this time. That mother-in-law Clan Head seemed to enjoy such things…

Yu Tian Island itself was sunny, bright sunlight bathing the land.

Grand Elder Yu Yan landed the airship smoothly on the island’s landing plaza. As they disembarked, a welcoming delegation from the Yu family approached.

Leading the group was an elderly woman with graying hair. Judging by her attire, Yan Zhen guessed she was the Yu family’s head housekeeper, a member of a collateral branch, a generation older than the Grand Elder and the Dean.

After exchanging greetings, the head housekeeper’s gaze fell upon Yan Zhen.

“Is this Young Miss Xuan’er’s intended? Surprisingly young.”

Yan Zhen replied shyly, “My name is Yan Zhen, ‘Yan’ of fire, ‘Zhen’ of innocence. Greetings, Head Housekeeper.”

“Young Master is too polite… The Clan Head has arranged a welcome banquet at Ting Chao Pavilion. Please follow me.”

Hearing the words “Ting Chao Pavilion,” Dean Yu Qing frowned slightly.

Since this wasn’t a formal meeting, it was normal not to meet in the main hall.

However, Ting Chao Pavilion was usually where the three sisters gathered for tea, enjoyed the scenery, and relaxed. It was a private space, never used to entertain guests.

—Could it be that Second Sister already considers this boy one of their own? Is it because of the Supreme Elder? Mmm…

She had thought Second Sister was on her side, but now she felt betrayed.

Clown.JPG Grand Elder Yu Yan, however, smiled faintly, thinking it was rare for her second sister’s attitude to be so lenient. It seemed everyone was quite satisfied with Little Yan Zhen.

“Then let’s go. Xiao Die, keep an eye on Little Yan Zhen, don’t let him get lost.”

Cousin Yu Die replied cheerfully, “Roger that.”

Yan Zhen was speechless, thinking the Grand Elder really loved treating others like children.

Led by the head housekeeper, the group followed a winding path to a pavilion perched beside a pond.

Ting Chao Pavilion had three floors, all open on four sides, supported only by pillars and railings, offering an expansive view of the surrounding scenery and the sound of the nearby tides.

Ascending the stairs to the top floor, Yan Zhen finally saw his future mother-in-law, the Clan Head, Yu Lu.

She stood by the railing, gazing at the distant tide. Hearing the head housekeeper’s announcement, she turned around abruptly.

Just as described in the script, she was a stunningly beautiful woman with a cold and serious demeanor, dressed in a deep blue gown, her figure graceful and alluring. Unlike her unmarried older and younger sisters, her hair was styled in a bun characteristic of married women, making her appear more mature.

Yan Zhen didn’t dare to look too closely, as her gaze was too sharp, like daggers, making him slightly apprehensive.

The gentle Grand Elder Great Aunt, the cold Clan Head Mother-in-Law, and the short-tempered Dean Younger Aunt.

The three Yu sisters had vastly different personalities.

“Elder Sister, Yu Qing, Bailan, Xiao Die… you’re back.”

Clan Head Yu Lu spoke calmly, her voice devoid of emotion.

The four women approached, leaving Yan Zhen standing alone.

“Greetings, Clan Head.”

Cousin Yu Die’s tone was respectful. As a member of a collateral branch, she didn’t dare show any disrespect towards the Clan Head.

Shui Bailan also smiled slightly. “Greetings, Sister-in-law.”

Clan Head Yu Lu hummed in acknowledgment, then turned her gaze towards her younger sister.

Dean Yu Qing, like a mouse seeing a cat, said weakly, “Second Sister, long time no see.”

Clan Head Yu Lu said indifferently, “Two-star already? Not bad. I thought you were just playing around outside, neglecting your cultivation, and afraid to come home.”

Dean Yu Qing quickly explained, “Th-that’s because the duties of the Outer Academy Dean are demanding, so I rarely came back. Right, Bailan?”

Shui Bailan looked straight ahead, indicating it had nothing to do with her.

Grand Elder Yu Yan chuckled, affectionately took her second sister’s hand, and introduced Yan Zhen. “Xiao Lu, look, that child is Xuan’er’s intended, and also my newly accepted disciple, Yan Zhen. What do you think? Isn’t he cute?”

Yan Zhen felt awkward, thinking the Grand Elder was being a bit inappropriate, but he saw his future mother-in-law nod slightly in agreement.

Yan Zhen: “…”

He understood now. Younger Aunt Dean was afraid of Clan Head Mother-in-Law, Clan Head Mother-in-Law respected Grand Elder Great Aunt, and Grand Elder Great Aunt couldn’t do anything about her third sister. It was a cycle of dominance.

As he was thinking this, he heard Grand Elder Yu Yan call him, “Little Yan Zhen, hurry over and greet your future mother-in-law~”

Yan Zhen braced himself, took a step forward, and bowed respectfully. “Junior Yan Zhen greets Clan Head Yu.”

Clan Head Yu Lu stared intently at Yan Zhen, a flicker of surprise in her eyes. “Six-star Mystic Master…”

Her older sister had told her earlier that Yan Zhen was only a four-star Mystic Master. He had advanced two stars in less than a month.

Such cultivation speed was top-tier even in the Inner Academy.

Seeing her staring at him without responding, Yan Zhen felt immense pressure.

“This child, addressing me so formally. He usually calls me Great Aunt and Xiao Qing Younger Aunt.” Grand Elder Yu Yan smiled. “He must be shy meeting his beautiful mother-in-law, huhu~”

Clan Head Yu Lu remained impassive. “Sit down. Let’s eat first.”

It was almost noon, lunchtime. Yan Zhen was also feeling hungry. Guided by the head housekeeper, he took a seat.

It was a round table, but Yan Zhen was seated alone on the lower half, while the five Yu women sat on the upper half, like an interrogation, making him feel considerable pressure.

108 Another Argument with Younger Aunt Dean

At Grand Elder Yu Yan’s signal, Yan Zhen boarded the small airship and sat in the back row.

Cousin Yu Die followed, sitting beside him and staring at him intently without saying a word.

“Sit tight, everyone. We’re taking off.”

Grand Elder Yu Yan sounded excited, like she was eager for a race, but the two passengers in the back didn’t notice.

Yan Zhen felt a drop of cold sweat trickle down his forehead under Yu Die’s scrutiny. “Senior Sister Yu Die, why are you staring at me?”

Cousin Yu Die crossed her arms and legs, humming slightly. “It’s Cousin, not Senior Sister—you need to address me properly.”

Yan Zhen forced a smile. “Cousin.”

The short-haired, heroic-looking young woman was satisfied. She patted Yan Zhen’s shoulder like a good buddy. “Be honest, were you and Little Long Ying the ones who snatched the Magma Ape’s ore in the Yang Polar Secret Realm a couple of days ago?”

Yan Zhen naturally denied it, shaking his head with an innocent expression. “Magma Ape? I’ve been cultivating. I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“It doesn’t matter if you don’t admit it. I know it was you anyway…” Cousin Yu Die said with a snort. “You’re quite bold, daring to steal from the top ten societies. If anyone else found out it was you and Little Long Ying, she would be fine, but you’d be finished.”

Yan Zhen feigned ignorance. “I’m a model student. Whoever dares to bully me, Great Aunt won’t let them off—right, Great Aunt?”

Grand Elder Yu Yan, immersed in the joy of piloting, ignored him.

The small airship shot forward with a bang, reaching the Outer Academy in moments, then screeched to a halt.

Cousin Yu Die was prepared, but Yan Zhen was almost thrown out of the cabin. He rubbed his reddened nose, thinking that the seemingly composed Grand Elder was actually quite a wild driver.

Yan Zhen looked ahead and saw that the airship had stopped in front of the top floor of Yu Heaven Pavilion. Soon, Younger Aunt Dean and Aunt Head Instructor, whom he hadn’t seen in days, stepped aboard and sat across from him and Cousin Yu Die.

They were separated by a table. Yan Zhen blinked and greeted them politely, “Greetings, Younger Aunt, greetings, Aunt.”

Dean Yu Qing snorted haughtily.

Head Instructor Shui Bailan nodded slightly, her tone gentle. “You child, making it onto the Rising Star List within half a month is quite surprising. It seems Xuan’er’s judgment was indeed correct. No wonder even the Supreme Elder indirectly approved of your relationship.”

“You flatter me, Aunt,” Yan Zhen said humbly. “It was just luck.”

Dean Yu Qing said sarcastically, “What’s there to be proud of? You only managed it because of that strange flame sword embryo!”

Yan Zhen chuckled coldly. “That’s the natal sword embryo I forged using the Gold and Silver Fire. It’s not an ordinary Mystic Tool. In essence, it’s my own power. Does Younger Aunt have a problem with that?”

“You’re the one with the problem, you little brat!” Dean Yu Qing immediately caught the double meaning in his words and retorted, “Don’t call me Younger Aunt! I’m not your Younger Aunt!”

“Fine, then I won’t. Big deal.”

“What did you say?!”

“I said one, two, three, wooden man, if you don’t move, you’ll lose points~”

Yan Zhen started humming a song to himself. The cheerful melody made Cousin Yu Die’s eyes light up, thinking it sounded nice.

Dean Yu Qing’s blood pressure soared. For some reason, seeing him act so impudent with his innocent face infuriated her.

What angered her more was that she couldn’t beat him up. And even if she could, it wasn’t certain she could teach him a lesson, because not only did he have that powerful Extreme Flame attack, but he also had a spatial treasure to escape!

The more she thought about it, the angrier she became! Ever since she was a spoiled young lady until she became the Outer Academy Dean, she had never been so provoked!

Shui Bailan quickly tried to mediate. “Alright, Yu Qing, you’re the elder. Don’t squabble with a child.”

Dean Yu Qing pointed angrily at Yan Zhen. “This boy isn’t cute at all! I don’t approve of his relationship with Xuan’er!”

Shui Bailan was speechless. “They’re just dating right now. They haven’t even discussed marriage yet.”

“Anyway, I don’t approve!”

“…”

Yan Zhen snorted contemptuously.

—So what if Younger Aunt Dean doesn’t approve? Supreme Elder Yu already nodded. I’m not worried at all~

“Xiao Qing, stop talking nonsense. Little Yan Zhen and Xuan’er’s matter was personally approved by the Supreme Elder. It’s not your place to comment.” Grand Elder Yu Yan, standing at the helm, reprimanded her. “And Little Yan Zhen, don’t bully your Younger Aunt. Show some respect.”

“Who’s being bullied by him!” Dean Yu Qing blushed instantly. “With his measly six-star Mystic Master cultivation, even if I stood still and let him hit me, he couldn’t hurt me at all!”

Yan Zhen teased, “Really? I don’t believe you. Want to try?”

“Try me! Who’s afraid!”

“Come on, come on.”

“You come, you come…”

—Stare~~~

—Glare!!!

Head Instructor Shui Bailan and Cousin Yu Die, sitting beside them, felt like they were watching a kitten and a puppy bumping heads.

Shui Bailan sighed softly, while Yu Die chuckled. “Aunt Qing and Cousin-in-law get along so well.”

Dean Yu Qing glared at Yu Die. “Brat, which eye of yours sees us getting along? If you’re blind, I’ll gouge it out and replace it with a brighter one!”

Cousin Yu Die stuck out her tongue and stopped provoking the short-tempered Dean Yu Qing.

Yan Zhen also quieted down, no longer bothering to argue with Younger Aunt Dean.

—Childish!

Silence fell in the cabin.

The airship sped through the clouds, leaving a trail of water-colored light.

Cousin Yu Die suddenly spoke. “Cousin-in-law, what song were you humming earlier? It sounded nice.”

Yan Zhen replied indifferently, “Just humming randomly. I don’t know what song it is.”

“Liar. You definitely know, but you don’t want to tell me, right?”

“…It’s a song called ‘One Two Three, Wooden Man’.”

“Never heard of it. Can you sing it again for me?”

“It’s a girl’s song, not really suitable for a boy to sing.”

Yan Zhen glanced at Cousin Yu Die, thinking that despite her bold and heroic appearance, she actually had a very girlish heart, favoring pink and small animals.

“How about I sing you ‘Ji Ni Tai Mei’?”

“Eh?”

“Ji Ni Tai Mei, oh, baby, Ji Ni Shi Zai Tai Mei, oh, baby… Ying Mian Zou Lai De Ni Rang Wo Chun Chun Yu Dong… Ni Shi Wo De, Wo Shi Ni De—” (You are too beautiful, oh, baby, You are truly too beautiful, oh, baby… You walking towards me makes me restless… You are mine, I am yours—)

After singing, Yan Zhen felt unsatisfied. The cramped cabin didn’t allow for the dynamic dance moves, stripping the song of its soul.

He looked up and saw that Cousin Yu Die was blushing furiously, while Aunt Head Instructor and Younger Aunt Dean were giving him strange looks.

“Lewd!” Younger Aunt Dean scolded. “Where did you learn such a shameless song!”

Even Aunt Head Instructor was displeased. “Yan Zhen, don’t be too greedy.”

Cousin Yu Die, who had been quite friendly with him moments ago, now scooted away, putting distance between them, and said seriously, “Sorry, Cousin-in-law, you’re not my type.”

Yan Zhen: “…”

107 Visiting the Yu Family

The Yang Essence fire poison was harmless to Yan Zhen, even replenishing his Mystic Power. He dispelled it from Huangfu Wenqing’s body within moments.

Huangfu Wenqing breathed a sigh of relief.

In the Yang Polar Secret Realm, she had used her Wind Mystic Power to circulate both internally and externally to dissipate heat, but it had no effect on the accumulated fire poison. Circulating her power had only spread the poison throughout her body, worsening her condition. She had felt as if her internal organs were about to ignite.

Fortunately, she had her precious fiancé, the master of Extreme Flames… Thinking of this, Huangfu Wenqing raised her arms from the water, looking at Yan Zhen coquettishly.

Yan Zhen scratched his cheek, then leaned down and lifted Huangfu Wenqing out of the bathtub.

Cold water streamed down her body and hair, dripping onto the floor and soaking Yan Zhen’s clothes.

Yan Zhen circulated his Fire Mystic Power, enveloping them both, quickly evaporating the water from their skin.

Huangfu Wenqing felt warm and comfortable, her green eyes narrowing slightly, a hint of drowsiness appearing.

Because of the fire poison, she hadn’t slept all night. Now that it was gone, exhaustion washed over her like a tide.

Yan Zhen placed his fiancée on the bed, covered her with the blanket, concealing her beautiful form, then turned, poured her a cup of water, and handed it to her.

“Have some water.”

Huangfu Wenqing blinked and said softly, “Feed me.”

Yan Zhen sat on the edge of the bed, helped Huangfu Wenqing sit up against his chest, and held the teacup to her lips.

“Drink.”

Huangfu Wenqing slowly drank the tea, Yan Zhen wiping the water that dribbled from the corner of her mouth with his sleeve.

“More.”

Yan Zhen nodded, got up to pour another cup, and returned to feed her.

“Is that enough?”

Huangfu Wenqing hummed in agreement, and Yan Zhen gently laid her back down on the bed.

“Get some sleep then. You’ll be fine when you wake up.”

As Yan Zhen was about to leave, Huangfu Wenqing grabbed the corner of his clothes.

“Don’t go, okay, Yan Zhen?”

Yan Zhen sat back down, stroked her cheek, and said gently, “Since you’re tired, you should rest.”

Huangfu Wenqing held his wrist, rubbing her cheek against his palm, and said softly, “Did you go on a date with Zi Xunyi last night?”

Yan Zhen froze, feeling awkward. “We just went for a walk.”

“Just a walk, yet you came back with a completely different aura, hmph.”

—Ah, this… Am I exposed?

Huangfu Wenqing was only sixteen or seventeen, yet her intuition seemed as sharp as Beautiful Master’s. Was this a woman’s intuition?

Yan Zhen felt guilty. He thought she wouldn’t notice, but she had called him out. It felt like being caught red-handed.

—So embarrassing. I absolutely cannot admit it!

“Ahem, you’re… overthinking it, Wenqing. Nothing happened. Zi Ji is from a prominent clan, naturally possessing that noble and elegant goddess-like aura.”

Huangfu Wenqing snorted softly, turned her face away, and said petulantly, “I’m going to tell Grandpa Yan Lie that you bullied me.”

He almost forgot his fiancée had this “tattling” move.

Yan Zhen broke into a cold sweat and quickly coaxed her, “It’s my fault for not dispelling the fire poison sooner. I’m guilty. Please don’t be angry, Wenqing.”

Hearing his gentle tone, Huangfu Wenqing turned back and said childishly, “Kiss me, and I’ll forgive you.”

Yan Zhen felt inexplicably shy. After a moment’s hesitation, he leaned down, looked at his fiancée’s beautiful face, and kissed her pale pink lips.

Huangfu Wenqing immediately responded, opening her mouth like a greedy kitten, demanding his affection, her arms expertly wrapping around his neck.

When they finally broke apart, breathless, Yan Zhen pulled back his slightly numb tongue. Huangfu Wenqing licked her lips, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Forgiven halfway. One more kiss.”

—Hey, that’s not what you said earlier!

Faced with his sick and unreasonable fiancée, Yan Zhen was helpless. He leaned down again and gave her a gentle kiss.

After the kiss, Huangfu Wenqing kissed his chin and chuckled mischievously. “Forgiven another half of the remaining half. One more kiss.”

—What kind of calculus kissing is this?!

Yan Zhen was speechless. He gave her one final peck on the lips, then gently removed her arms from his neck and sat up.

“Alright, get some rest. We’ll talk when you wake up.”

Huangfu Wenqing pouted, clearly unhappy.

“Be good.” Yan Zhen tucked her restless arms under the covers. “I’m going to cultivate in the Celestial Dome Pagoda. I’ll bring you back something delicious.”

Huangfu Wenqing nodded, watched Yan Zhen leave the room, then closed her eyes and quickly fell asleep.

Yan Zhen went downstairs and returned to Zi Xunyi’s room.

The pastries were finished. Long Ying was lying prone on the table, bored, while Zi Xunyi elegantly sipped her tea.

Yan Zhen spent time with them until noon. After confirming Zi Xunyi was alright, he gave her the Tier 6 academy card from the Grand Elder, explaining that he was going to cultivate in the Celestial Dome Pagoda and asked her to arrange Long Ying’s meals.

However, Long Ying insisted on going with him. Yan Zhen reluctantly agreed and took her along.

Arriving at the Celestial Dome Pagoda, many students looked at him strangely, clearly having heard about him entering the Yang Polar Secret Realm with the Purple-Clad Goddess.

If not for their fear of his strength, demonstrated by his victory over Bai Ao, many admirers of Zi Xunyi, both male and female, would have likely challenged him to a duel already.

Yan Zhen continued cultivating on the fourth level. Long Ying sat beside him, mimicking his posture, but soon fell asleep, her head resting on his lap.

Dragon Slumber Breathing Technique.

As time passed, Yan Zhen’s breathing rhythm gradually synchronized with Long Ying’s, and his cultivation speed visibly increased.

After a day of cultivation, Yan Zhen successfully consolidated his six-star Mystic Master realm and continued cultivating.

Another day passed. Yan Zhen took Long Ying and left the Celestial Dome Pagoda, returning to their residence.

Grand Elder Yu Yan informed him that Instructor Yu Xuan would be coming out of seclusion tomorrow, and he should prepare to visit the Yu family.

This wasn’t part of the script, so Yan Zhen felt a bit nervous.

The next day, at the cliffside building, Yan Zhen gently put down Long Ying, pushed her towards the two women, and said, “I’m going to the Yu family residence and will probably be there for two or three days. Please take care of Long Ying during this time. Just make sure she doesn’t wander off.”

“I won’t wander off!” Long Ying put her hands on her hips proudly. “Zhenzhen is the one who wanders off!”

“I have important business!”

Yan Zhen gently tapped Long Ying’s head, waved goodbye, and then, with a flash of starlight, flew back towards the Grand Elder’s residence. Grand Elder Yu Yan was already waiting for him.

Besides the Grand Elder, Cousin Yu Die was also there.

Seeing Yan Zhen fly back from the cliffside building, both women looked at him strangely.

Normally, Yan Zhen’s closeness to Zi Xunyi (Celestial God Clan) would be attributed to his relationship with Long Ying (Dragon God Clan), but they felt there was more to it.

Yan Zhen felt awkward, especially since both women were Instructor Yu Xuan’s family.

“Ahem, when do we leave?”

Grand Elder Yu Yan narrowed her eyes again, took out an airship model from her storage ring, activated the runes on it, and the model instantly grew into a small airship capable of holding ten people.

“Let’s go pick up Xiao Qing and Xiao Bailan from the Outer Academy first.”

Yan Zhen felt uneasy. The elegant Head Instructor Aunt was fine, but the short-tempered, menopausal-like Dean Younger Aunt was coming too?

106 Fiancée Feels Wronged

Under Beautiful Master’s guidance, Yan Zhen refined the sword embryo once more. Natal sword progress +1. He then left the Fire Refining Starry Sky and reappeared in the bathroom.

Ling’er’s situation was resolved for now. He just had to wait a month for Beautiful Master to set up the formation and transfer the little girl’s consciousness into the fetus within Zi Xunyi.

As for the sword, he needed to refine it daily until, after half a month, he could go to the Yin Polar Secret Realm for the final quenching, tempering, and bloodletting. He also needed to search for soul-nourishing medicinal herbs within the Yin Polar Secret Realm.

Next, he should visit Instructor Yu Xuan. Yan Zhen was a bit worried about her condition, considering her mother, the Clan Head, was the typical controlling parent.

After that, he needed to return to the Outer Academy to visit Meng’er, his cousin, Xue’er, and Xinyan. It had been almost a month since he entered the Inner Academy, and he wondered how they were doing. They probably hadn’t messaged him much, afraid of disturbing his cultivation, only sending regular good morning and goodnight messages, occasionally sharing interesting tidbits.

As for refining pills to earn money to feed Long Ying, then tricking her into becoming his mount and accompanying him to Cloud Heaven Palace, that would have to wait.

The schedule was tight, but manageable.

The plot in the Sacred Ground Academy wasn’t overly complicated, mostly involving cultivation, dueling, and entering secret realms, incidentally offending the top ten societies.

First was the Black Horn society, ranked fifth.

Yan Zhen had refused their recruitment offer and snatched the Fire Spirit Crystal from the Tier 5 Magma Ape in the Yang Polar Secret Realm.

The Black Horn members recognized him by his movement technique and would likely confront him after he entered the Yin Polar Secret Realm.

Unfortunately for them, the little Dragon Girl Yan Zhen was raising was no longer just a glutton who ate and slept. She had transformed into a violent loli, capable of taking down opponents with a single punch.

Next was the Inner Academy’s only alchemist society, the “Medicine King.”

After emerging from the Yin Polar Secret Realm, Yan Zhen’s points would be depleted. To earn money to feed Long Ying, he would have to refine and sell pills at the Exchange.

Because his pills were of excellent quality and reasonably priced, he would steal a lot of business, thus offending the Medicine King society, which previously monopolized the pill market.

To defend their reputation, the Medicine King members would challenge Yan Zhen to an alchemy competition.

Besides that, there was the “Star Gathering Banquet” halfway through the academic year, where the mysterious top-ranked student on the Rising Star List would appear. And at the end of the year was the Inner Academy’s grand annual event, the “Star Picking Ceremony.”

According to the script, Yan Zhen was supposed to recognize Zi Xunyi as his “dream lover” at the Star Gathering Banquet, and their intimate conversation would be witnessed by Wen Canglan, inciting his jealousy and leading him to challenge Yan Zhen.

Now that he had already met and become intimate with Zi Xunyi ahead of schedule, he wasn’t sure how the Star Gathering Banquet plot would unfold or if it could be salvaged.

The “Star Picking Ceremony” primarily involved his duel with Wen Canglan.

Wen Canglan was not only powerful but also possessed the innate Crystal Eyes and a Tier 5 Crystal Sword, making him a formidable opponent, even for ordinary Mystic Kings.

To defeat him, Yan Zhen would need Mystic General cultivation, Tier 4 physique, Tier 4 soul cultivation, his completed Gold and Silver Fire Natal Sword, the body tempering technique Dragon Blood Scale Transformation, and the soul cultivation technique Heavenly Dragon’s Eight Tones.

The Heavenly Dragon’s Eight Tones could shatter Wen Canglan’s protective crystal barrier. The Grand Elder hadn’t given it to him yet, but theoretically, she should reward him with it after he ascended the Rising Star List.

The Dragon Blood Scale Transformation could negate Wen Canglan’s crystal energy erosion, preventing him from being crystallized during the fight. This required Long Ying’s divine blood.

His natal sword, nearly Tier 6 after completion, would be used against Wen Canglan’s Tier 5 Crystal Sword. He still had some way to go with its forging.

—I have nothing yet. This is too difficult.

Yan Zhen, looking in the mirror while sorting through his thoughts, sighed deeply and left the bathroom.

In the bedroom, Zi Xunyi had already changed into her usual purple dress and was eating breakfast pastries with the awakened Long Ying.

Seeing Yan Zhen, Long Ying, her cheeks puffed with food, frowned and mumbled complainingly, “Zhenzhen, you clearly said we’d come find Sister Xunyi together, you liar!”

Yan Zhen pulled up a chair beside Zi Xunyi and “stole” a pastry from Long Ying. “Didn’t I bring you here? You were just sleeping too soundly, like a little piglet.”

Long Ying blushed and retorted angrily, “Who’s a little piglet? I’m a dragon!”

“Yes, yes.”

“Hmph!”

“…”

—Acting cute can’t hide the fact that you’ve become a lewd dragon.

Yan Zhen ignored the lewd Dragon Girl and turned to Zi Xunyi. She sensed his gaze, her heart fluttered, and a faint blush appeared on her cheeks, but she acted nonchalant, gracefully pouring him a cup of fragrant hot tea.

“Zi Ji, are you feeling alright?”

Last night, he had been very… diligent for their daughter’s sake, perhaps even overly diligent, going for a second round, somewhat addicted.

Perhaps because she was his future wife, the system didn’t warn him, considering that a protagonist shouldn’t be restricted when being intimate with his wife, as that wouldn’t be satisfying.

—The system is becoming more humane. I’m pleased.

[…]

Zi Xunyi shook her head slightly. “I’m fine. You should go check on Miss Huangfu. She came looking for you earlier.”

“Wenqing was looking for me? Why?”

Yan Zhen, puzzled, suddenly remembered something and took out the Cloud Heaven Palace communication talisman. Sure enough, there was a message from Huangfu Wenqing.

[Fiancée Wenqing: Yan Zhen, I feel so hot and uncomfortable. Can you come help me?]

The message was sent last night. It seemed like a lonely plea, but Yan Zhen immediately thought of the Yang Essence fire poison.

Wind fueled fire. The fire poison would spread faster in a Wind attribute cultivator’s body. If not dispelled promptly, it would cause intense burning pain.

“Is Wenqing staying in her previous room?”

“Yes.”

“Then I’ll go find her.”

Yan Zhen quickly left the room, went upstairs, and arrived at Huangfu Wenqing’s room.

Before even entering, he sensed the intense heat emanating from within and quickly knocked.

“Wenqing, it’s me. How are you?”

No response.

Yan Zhen tried the door and found it unlocked, clearly left open for him.

He entered and found the living room empty. He lifted the beaded curtain, entered the bedroom, and saw, through the screen, a graceful silhouette sitting in the bathtub.

“Yan Zhen…”

Huangfu Wenqing called out.

Understanding her situation, Yan Zhen hurried over, went around the screen, approached the bathtub, and saw his fiancée soaking in cold water, her face pale.

“Yan Zhen~”

Huangfu Wenqing called out again, looking like a wronged little girl, as if she had been bullied.

Yan Zhen guessed she had failed to dispel the fire poison, her body becoming increasingly hot, forcing her to cool down in cold water.

“It’s alright, it’s alright. I’ll help you dispel the Yang Essence fire poison.”

Yan Zhen went behind Huangfu Wenqing, placed his hands on her smooth, pinkish back, circulated the Emperor Flame Technique, and easily suppressed the fire poison within her body, then absorbed it completely, refining it into pure Fire Mystic Power and integrating it into his own dantian.

105 Zi Ji, Be Good

It’s common knowledge that dual cultivation and making love are not the same thing.

Dual cultivation is still a form of cultivation, while making love is the true pinnacle of human pleasure.

Having successfully obtained a sliver of the power of creation through the Procreation Chapter, Yan Zhen began to employ his full repertoire of techniques, switching positions, filling Zi Xunyi completely before stopping.

Upon the silent altar, soft moans and whispers echoed, eventually fading into tranquility.

Looking through the curtains of the stone bed, one could vaguely see the entangled figures of the young man and woman (?).

They lay side by side, Yan Zhen nestled against Zi Xunyi’s beautiful back, one arm tucked beneath her neck as a pillow, the other hand resting on her lower abdomen, gently caressing the faint bloodline divine mark.

Zi Xunyi, like a drowsy kitten, squinted her moist eyes, finding Yan Zhen’s touch incredibly comforting. Her body slowly recovered from the intense pleasure, the fierce passion replaced by a serene happiness that nourished her heart like sweet dew.

The warmth in her abdomen clearly indicated that she was now carrying Yan Zhen’s child. A sense of unprecedented peace and tranquility washed over her, a hint of maternal tenderness appearing on her face.

A month ago, she never would have imagined that she would become pregnant before marriage, let alone through a special dual cultivation technique.

“Is this enough?” Zi Xunyi asked lazily. “Should we transfer Ling’er’s consciousness into my body now?”

Yan Zhen moved his hand from her abdomen to stroke her lavender hair. “We should wait about a month, until the fetus has initially formed, before transferring.”

“Do I need to do anything during this month?”

“Are you talking about nourishing the fetus?”

Zi Xunyi blushed and nodded.

“There’s nothing special you need to do. Just carry on as usual. If any problems arise, let me know, and we’ll discuss it with Master.”

Hearing the word “Master,” Zi Xunyi felt a twinge of embarrassment. Although she wasn’t physically present, she knew Master Chen Xi was likely still watching over them.

Perhaps Master Chen Xi had witnessed the entire scene of her being ravaged by Yan Zhen. How could she face her afterward?

Thinking of this, Zi Xunyi curled up in Yan Zhen’s embrace.

Yan Zhen, noticing this, released her hair and held her closer, his hand resting over her heart, feeling its slightly accelerated beat.

“By the way, Zi Ji, are you planning to integrate your future memories?”

Zi Xunyi, while gently pushing his mischievous hand away, said, “That is me.”

—So there’s no need to integrate.

Yan Zhen chuckled, realizing he had underestimated his wife’s mindset. She could quickly accept the reality of him being a transmigrator and even showed great curiosity about his other world. Naturally, she could also accept her future self without needing his persuasion.

Actually, that wasn’t entirely accurate. Whether it was her past self or future self, it was still her. There was no question of acceptance.

The clumsy child who tripped on flat ground was her, the girl who secretly crushed on a classmate from the next class was also her, and the hardworking woman she became after starting work was also her.

More precisely, they were all “parts” of her.

The body housed the soul, the soul carried memories, and memories were the unique imprints of time, belonging only to oneself.

Perhaps rebirth was simply regaining lost time.

Thinking of this, Yan Zhen felt a jolt in his soul, his forehead throbbing. His Spiritual Power, already at the peak of the Manifest Realm, began a mystical advancement.

The five major realms of soul cultivation: Hidden, Manifest, Hidden-Midst-Manifest, True, and Profound. Under finer division, there were nine realms, the extra four being transitional stages, similar to the body tempering realms.

With a sudden enlightenment, Yan Zhen’s soul advanced from the Manifest Realm to “Hidden-Midst-Manifest,” his Spiritual Power now able to wander outside his body.

Upon reaching the Hidden Realm, he would be able to further separate his soul and project an avatar, moving freely like Zi Xunyi.

Soul cultivation was the opposite of body tempering. Body tempering required diligent practice, with effort playing a large role in strength. Soul cultivation, however, relied on enlightenment. A single moment of insight could be worth ten years of arduous practice.

Cultivating the soul meant cultivating the mind. Some grew stronger through terrifying life-or-death experiences, while others strengthened their souls simply by reading scriptures. It depended on talent and opportunity.

Yan Zhen closed his eyes, savoring the new realm of soul cultivation. His Spiritual Power, like an excited primary school student rushing home after school, burst out from behind the curtains, flying around the altar, eventually sensing Beautiful Master’s presence.

She was sitting cross-legged within the starry formation above, a light mirror suspended before her, reflecting the scene on the bed.

Sensing Yan Zhen’s spiritual fluctuation, she quickly retracted the light mirror, coughed twice, and said seriously, “Zhen’er, your soul has just advanced. You should calm your mind and consolidate your gains. Don’t let your spirit wander aimlessly, lest you give rise to inner demons.”

—It’s been a while since Beautiful Master criticized me~

Yan Zhen quickly withdrew his Spiritual Power, opened his eyes, and kissed Zi Xunyi’s cheek.

Zi Xunyi turned around, her eyes shining brightly as she looked at her husband, and said happily, “You broke through?”

Yan Zhen hummed in response. “It’s all thanks to you, Zi Ji. It’s great to have such a supportive wife!”

Zi Xunyi lowered her head and said shyly, “It was your own enlightenment. What does it have to do with me?”

“Our dual cultivation brought my Spiritual Power to the peak of the Manifest Realm, allowing me to advance smoothly.”

“Mmm~ W-what are you doing?”

“Thanking my wife.”

“I… Mmm… You don’t have to… Mmm… Don’t touch—H-husband~~~”

“Zi Ji, be good. Lie still.”

Soon, the young woman’s delightful moans echoed from the bed again.

Above, Chen Xi secretly observed her disciple and daughter-in-law’s dual cultivation, thinking that she and he had never tried this position before.

Except for that time he went berserk, Yan Zhen was usually very well-behaved and obedient towards her, his master. Even during their intimate moments, he was like an eager puppy, wagging its tail, doing everything to please her.

Perhaps… she could change their dynamic, try something new…

The night passed without words.

The next day, when Yan Zhen woke up, the person in his arms was gone, but Beautiful Master was sitting by the bed, gazing at him gently.

“Good morning, Master~” Yan Zhen sat up, yawned widely, and rubbed his eyes. “Where’s Zi Ji?”

“That girl was shy and left early.” Chen Xi smiled softly. “I checked. She has successfully conceived. The fetus should form in about a month. Then you can transfer Ling’er’s consciousness. The transfer ceremony is quite complex and requires certain materials for the formation. Remember to prepare beforehand. Here’s the list.”

Yan Zhen took the cloth napkin, glanced at it – not many items, all rare materials related to the soul.

“I’ll prepare them, Master.”

Chen Xi patted his head. “Don’t stay in bed. Get dressed and start forging your sword. At the current pace, it should be completed in ten days to half a month. However, to perfect it, you’ll need to visit the Yin Polar Secret Realm for the final quenching and tempering.”

Yan Zhen felt invigorated and nodded.

104 Young Zi Xunyi and Mature Zi Xunyi Acknowledge Each Other

“Someone hiding?”

Yan Zhen paused, then quickly thought of the other Zi Xunyi. His heart skipped a beat, and he hesitated.

Should he let them meet? Given their current relationship, it was probably time to tell her the whole truth, right?

Yan Zhen nodded silently to himself, then lifted Zi Xunyi into his arms and said, “Let’s go take a look.”

Zi Xunyi wrapped her arms around his neck like a koala bear, clinging to his chest. Seeing him walk forward like this, she was startled. “Wait, Yan Zhen, put me down first!”

“It’s okay. This is our dreamscape. There are no outsiders.”

“B-but… Mmm~”

Zi Xunyi tried to say more, but felt a deep thrust at her weak point, the intense pleasure making her arch her back, cutting off her words.

Zi Xunyi was both embarrassed and annoyed. She bit his neck playfully, then buried her face in his shoulder, pretending to be an ostrich.

They approached the purple flower bushes and walked straight in, discovering the mature Zi Xunyi lying on the ground, panting softly.

Seeing the face almost identical to hers, Zi Xunyi gasped, utterly shocked.

“What is this…”

The mature Zi Xunyi recovered, opened her eyes, and saw Yan Zhen and her younger self. She was also startled and, despite the lingering pleasure, was about to tear open a rift in the dreamscape to escape, when Yan Zhen stopped her. “Wait, Zi Ji, there’s no need to hide.”

“Eh?”

The mature Zi Xunyi paused, turning her head in confusion.

Yan Zhen smiled faintly. “It’s time to confess to yourself.”

The mature Zi Xunyi looked at her younger self, who had just lost her virginity, then at Yan Zhen, and hesitated. “Is this alright?”

Yan Zhen looked down at the girl in his arms, meeting her confused gaze. She asked resentfully, “Yan Zhen, are you hiding something from me?”

“Sorry, Zi Ji, I lied to you.” Yan Zhen said frankly. “Actually, the one who was reborn wasn’t me, but you.”

Hearing this, Zi Xunyi’s eyes widened, her mind reeling from the shock.

“I… was reborn?”

“Yes, but something went wrong, and your rebirth failed.”

“Something went wrong?”

Yan Zhen began to explain, “Your future consciousness returned to the present, but the Jade Firmament Violet Fire treated it as an inner demon, preventing it from merging with your current self… You should have some memory of this.”

Zi Xunyi gasped in realization! “So… that was real? Not an inner demon?”

“Yes. And besides your future self, our daughter, Ling’er, also traveled back. Because she has no body and no mother’s sea of consciousness to reside in, her consciousness began to fade. Your future self could only seal her in the depths of the dreamscape.” Yan Zhen didn’t want Zi Xunyi to blame herself, so he glossed over some details. “It wasn’t until I arrived at the Sacred Ground Academy that your future self contacted me in my dreams and explained everything. I was surprised at first, but gradually accepted it, and then I approached you, not only for Ling’er, but also because I wanted to know what my future wife was like now.”

“Then why did you say you were reborn? And say those shameful things to me? W-were you lying to me the whole time?”

“Of course not. Your future self told me everything. And I found it quite romantic, meeting in a dream, then going from friends to lovers, hehe~~~”

“…”

Zi Xunyi gave him a resentful glare, then looked at her mature self.

She looked almost identical to her current self, but her aura was more noble and elegant. Even in this situation, she maintained her grace. This was the version of herself she aspired to be.

“You’re me?”

The mature Zi Xunyi nodded slightly. “I am you.”

“Then let me ask you, will Yan Zhen be good to us, mother and daughter, in the future?”

“Yes, he’s the best husband in the world, and the man we love most.” The mature Zi Xunyi smiled gently, then her expression shifted, and she said shyly, “But, Husband occasionally likes to… tease people, just like… now.”

Zi Xunyi blushed deeply, feeling utterly mortified that her shameful state was being witnessed, even if it was by her future self.

“Let me down, you bad man.”

“No, the cultivation isn’t over yet.” Yan Zhen thrust again, emphasizing his point. “Zi Ji isn’t an outsider. She’s you.”

“Y-you—”

Zi Xunyi was both embarrassed and annoyed, but held captive, unable to resist his advances.

As she endured the shame, she saw her future self walk over, blushing, and say, “Let me help.”

Being watched at such close proximity made Zi Xunyi even more embarrassed. She didn’t understand what her future self meant. “Help with what?”

“Naturally, help serve our husband.” The mature Zi Xunyi said shyly. “Husband has another wife, named Cai Lian. We often serve him together. My past self, you should get used to this early on. That way, you’ll have an advantage over Sister Cai Lian later and gain some leverage in our sisterly relationship.”

Huh? Zi Xunyi was stunned. She had to dual cultivate with Yan Zhen together with her future self? What… what was going on?!

Besides, this was her first time. She didn’t want a third person interrupting.

The mature Zi Xunyi seemed to read her thoughts and smiled. “I’m not a third person. I am you.”

“…”

Zi Xunyi was speechless.

The mature Zi Xunyi walked behind Yan Zhen, her elegant violet-gold dress slowly dissolving, revealing an even more mature and perfect body. She wrapped her white arms around his waist, pressing her full breasts, which had nursed a child, against his back, planting gentle kisses on his back and shoulders.

“Husband~” the mature Zi Xunyi called out passionately. “I also want to serve you, okay?”

Yan Zhen didn’t answer but turned his head and kissed her.

Seeing this, the younger Zi Xunyi felt a surge of unwillingness and quickly kissed Yan Zhen’s cheek.

The three (?) slowly sank onto the soft, fragrant flowerbed.

Body merged, Qi merged, spirit merged… a trinity. Yan Zhen and the two Zi Xunyi’s felt a mystical connection, as if walking on a path of black and white, an endless path, with profound power flowing along the dividing line.

The power of creation!

Yin and Yang complementing each other, heaven and earth creating life!

In the outside world, on the stone bed, Yan Zhen and Zi Xunyi opened their eyes simultaneously, then looked down. A white fish swam from Yan Zhen, along their point of connection, into Zi Xunyi’s abdomen, then merged with a black fish already there, forming a slowly rotating Tai Chi symbol.

With this power of creation, conception was guaranteed!

103 Cultivating the Procreation Chapter

The Procreation Chapter of the Emperor and Empress Yin-Yang Grand Art was the culmination of the other three chapters. Its purpose wasn’t to enhance strength but to safely and stably create a healthy and robust fetus.

The complexity of the Procreation Chapter lay in the requirement for the couple to simultaneously achieve physical union, Qi union, and spiritual union, reaching a state of true “Yin-Yang harmony, spirit and flesh merging.” This allowed them to harness a sliver of the Great Dao’s power of creation to produce offspring.

This was the main difficulty of the technique, demanding high compatibility in body, Qi, and spirit from both partners.

However, this wasn’t a problem for Yan Zhen and Zi Xunyi. Their souls were a perfect match, naturally drawn to each other. In terms of Mystic Power, both Light and Fire were Yang attributes. And as for their bodies, the husband and wife had basically figured out each other’s… dimensions.

On the stone bed, the young man and woman kissed deeply, shedding their sleepwear while exchanging passionate affections, feeling each other’s skin, warmth, and heartbeat. At the peak of their passion, they finally joined together in the most primal way.

The sharp pain brought Zi Xunyi back to her senses slightly. Her pale hands tightly clasped Yan Zhen’s, her long legs hooked around him in an M-shape, her moist, dazed eyes fixed on her husband’s face.

Yan Zhen leaned down, kissing her face repeatedly, soothing her anxiety.

“Yan Zhen…”

“Call me ‘Husband’.”

Hearing these words, Zi Xunyi blushed deeply. After a long hesitation, she finally whispered weakly, “H-Husband~”

“Yes, from now on, you’re my wife. I’ll give you a grand wedding, witnessed by the entire continent, and welcome you into the Yan family with honor.”

Zi Xunyi vaguely remembered the wedding from her dream, her mind hazy with bliss.

“Yan Zhen… Husband… Love me.”

“Then let’s begin.”

Yan Zhen gently kissed Zi Xunyi’s lips, thrusting forward while circulating the Emperor Flame Technique, warm Fire Mystic Power surging from his body.

Zi Xunyi, while receiving her husband’s affection, also circulated the Celestial God Art, gentle, violet-gold Light Mystic Power enveloping her like a veil, making her appear even more noble.

Guided by the Procreation Chapter, their two types of Mystic Power began to attempt merging.

“…Zhen’er, let go a little. Use your Mystic Power to overpower Zi Ji’s,” Beautiful Master’s voice suddenly sounded beside Yan Zhen’s ear. “Your Mystic Power level is much lower than hers. You need to be more assertive to achieve fusion; otherwise, it will be dissipated.”

Yan Zhen, worried about hurting Zi Xunyi, had been deliberately suppressing his power. Reminded by Beautiful Master, he realized his mistake. His wife was a Mystic King, while he was only a Mystic Master. There was no need to hold back.

Whoosh.

His Fire Mystic Power surged, becoming like true raging flames, intertwining fiercely with Zi Xunyi’s Light Mystic Power.

First, their bodies joined, then their Qi merged, and finally, their spirits connected. This trinity was necessary to enter the profound state of spirit and flesh merging.

Qi, or Mystic Power, was the link between body and spirit. Once Qi union was successful, their souls could begin to resonate.

However, Zi Xunyi’s Mystic Power was still much stronger than his, making it difficult to achieve balance. But asking her to deliberately suppress her power would affect the subsequent spirit union.

Yan Zhen thought for a moment, then had an idea. He thrust powerfully, breaking through Zi Xunyi’s defenses and going deeper.

Struck unexpectedly, Zi Xunyi let out a pitiful cry, her body trembling, her Mystic Power weakening.

—No wonder Beautiful Master told him to be more assertive. It wasn’t just about Mystic Power.

Yan Zhen released Zi Xunyi’s intertwined fingers, his freed hands slipping under her arms, lifting her delicate body so she was sitting upright on his lap, her legs tightly wrapped around his waist.

Muffled moans escaped Zi Xunyi’s lips, further exciting Yan Zhen, and he kissed her deeply.

Amidst their rhythmic movements, their Mystic Powers slowly fused, becoming one, circulating back and forth between their bodies.

Qi union achieved, both felt a jolt of energy. They looked into each other’s eyes, filled with affection, their foreheads touching, a dazzling spiritual radiance blooming between their brows.

Returning to their senses, they found themselves in the familiar purple flower field dreamscape.

Endless flowers stretched around them, a verdant meadow at the center, dominated by a towering tree reaching the clouds, a fairy-tale vine swing hanging from its branches.

Yan Zhen and Zi Xunyi were sitting on the swing in the same position as in reality, swaying gently. A soft breeze brushed against their skin, cool and comfortable.

Being intimate like this in broad daylight, even knowing it was a dream, made Zi Xunyi incredibly shy. Her face flushed crimson, and she buried her head in Yan Zhen’s shoulder, not daring to look up.

Yan Zhen stroked her hair and whispered softly in her ear, “Don’t be afraid, Zi Ji. It’s just us here.”

Zi Xunyi peeked at him shyly, then offered her lips, her intention clear.

Yan Zhen held her hips, increasing the swing’s momentum.

Melodious moans echoed beneath the tree, carried away by the breeze, adding a touch of spring to the lonely dreamscape.

Lost in their passion, they failed to notice another presence in the dream.

The mature Zi Xunyi, reborn but not fully integrated.

She hid in the dreamscape’s crevices, caring for her daughter. Sensing Yan Zhen’s arrival, she hurried out to meet him, only to witness her own… intimate scene.

With mixed feelings, the mature Zi Xunyi hid amongst the flowers, her eyes fixed on the couple on the swing.

However, as they became more intimately connected, she found herself experiencing the younger Zi Xunyi’s sensations.

Every movement Yan Zhen made sent waves of intense pleasure through her.

This feeling was familiar, addictive.

“Mmm~”

A soft moan escaped her lips. The mature Zi Xunyi quickly covered her mouth, afraid of being discovered and interrupting them.

But her husband, inconsiderate of her feelings, had the younger Zi Xunyi sit on the swing while he stood, continuing to push her back and forth.

The mature Zi Xunyi had been pleasured like this countless times by Yan Zhen before. Experiencing it again, her body seemed to remember, growing hotter.

“Mmm, Husband… spare me, I… I—”

The mature Zi Xunyi felt her mind go blank, letting out soft whimpers.

At the same moment, the younger Zi Xunyi experienced her first climax.

The clouds dispersed, the rain stopped. Yan Zhen held the girl in his arms, kissing her face, stroking her head, showering her with affection.

Soon, the younger Zi Xunyi recovered, her senses returning. She looked around, surprised, towards the mature Zi Xunyi’s hiding place, and said softly, “Yan Zhen, I think… I sense someone hiding there.”

102 You Are the Only One in My Heart

Yan Zhen naturally didn’t do anything inappropriate to Zi Xunyi. He just took the opportunity to be intimate, helping her better accept the upcoming special dual cultivation.

They spent nearly half an hour in the bathtub, whispering and touching, before finally getting out, drying themselves, putting on their nightgowns, and tidying up.

“Are you ready, Zi Ji?” Yan Zhen took Zi Xunyi’s hand. “It’s time to go in.”

Zi Xunyi was nervous. She checked her appearance in the full-length mirror again, making sure she wouldn’t appear disrespectful, then nodded slightly.

“Yes, take me to see Master.”

Yan Zhen activated the Star Shifting Fire Seal, and the distorted spatial energy transported him and Zi Xunyi, holding hands, into the crystal pendant around his neck.

Zi Xunyi felt a moment of disorientation, then her vision cleared, revealing towering pillars that surpassed even the Nine-Layered Celestial Dome Pagoda. Giant chains connected the pillars, enclosing a vast plaza.

Beyond the pillars stretched a dark, starry sky, dotted with burning stars, some shining particularly brightly.

At the center of the plaza stood an ancient, five-colored altar. She and Yan Zhen were standing at its edge. Not far away, at the center of the altar, sat a beautiful figure in a black dress with white hair, meditating peacefully.

Zi Xunyi’s gaze sharpened.

Without needing Yan Zhen’s introduction, she knew this was his master, the renowned female Alchemist Saint of the Mystic Heaven Continent, the only legendary expert before Yan Zhen to master two Extreme Flames!

“Let’s go.”

Yan Zhen led the younger version of his future wife towards his Beautiful Master. Chen Xi, having already sensed their arrival, opened her eyes, her gaze meeting theirs.

“Master, I’ve brought Zi Ji.”

Zi Xunyi placed her hands together before her lower abdomen, bowed slightly, and performed an elegant curtsey. “Junior Zi Xunyi greets Senior Alchemist Saint.”

Seeing the younger Zi Xunyi, Chen Xi felt a wave of nostalgia, recalling their first meeting in her previous life.

“No need for such formalities. You are Zhen’er’s future wife, thus my disciple-in-law. You can address me as ‘Master,’ just like Zhen’er.”

Zi Xunyi was surprised. She had expected the Alchemist Saint to be rather aloof, but she was unexpectedly gentle. Was it because she was her “disciple-in-law”?

—That title feels rather embarrassing.

“Yes, Master Chen Xi. You can call me ‘Zi Ji’ as well.”

Chen Xi nodded slightly, thinking that she was actually more accustomed to calling her “Zi Fei.”

“It seems you’re ready?”

Zi Xunyi asked shyly, “Master Chen Xi, that dual cultivation technique… can it really guarantee pregnancy?”

“Naturally.” Chen Xi smiled faintly. “You should have heard of it. It’s an additional chapter of the Emperor and Empress Yin-Yang Grand Art, the ‘Procreation Chapter’.”

The Emperor and Empress Yin-Yang Grand Art, a Saint-level dual cultivation secret technique, was divided into the Physical Union, Qi Union, and Spiritual Union chapters.

Physical Union involved the physical joining of man and woman, Qi Union involved the exchange of energy, and Spiritual Union involved the resonance of souls.

Zi Xunyi possessed the Spiritual Union chapter, which was how she met Yan Zhen in the dreamscape.

Mi Xue’er and Xiao Xinyan had used the Qi Union chapter to advance.

As for the Physical Union chapter, the script only mentioned that Jiu Youyue knew it, having specifically learned it to trade with Yan Zhen.

Later, to face a common enemy, the two of them used the Physical Union chapter to dual cultivate and advance together.

Zi Xunyi had only heard of the three main chapters, unaware of the “Procreation Chapter.”

Chen Xi explained, “In ancient times, the fertility rate of the God Clans was low. To ensure their continuation, the ancestors created many secret techniques to increase fertility, including this Procreation Chapter. It’s the safest and most reliable technique, virtually guaranteeing conception on the first try. There are only two drawbacks: first, it’s overly complex and difficult to perform even after mastering it; second, it can only be used once, and the mother must be a virgin. Neither of these is a major issue. Zi Ji is still a virgin, and Master will guide you through the dual cultivation.”

Actually, the Procreation Chapter was originally only suitable for procreation between God Clan members. Chen Xi, in her previous life, had modified it into a dual cultivation technique for humans and gods. As for why… she couldn’t say, but she had been driven by a certain obsession at the time…

“There’s no time to delay. Let’s begin now.”

Chen Xi gently raised her hand, and a magnificent stone bed rose from the altar, draped with pink curtains, covered with a soft mattress, two pillows, and a comfortable quilt, perfectly prepared.

Except for the stone platform underneath, all the other items were created by Chen Xi’s Spiritual Power, yet they looked incredibly real.

Manifesting the ethereal into reality… this is the power of the True Realm of soul cultivation. Zi Xunyi marveled inwardly.

“Alright, you two, take off your clothes and get on the bed… Master will step aside for now and return when needed.”

Chen Xi’s form faded into an ethereal shadow and disappeared.

However, Zi Xunyi still felt Master Chen Xi’s gaze lingering, realizing that her withdrawal wasn’t truly leaving, but a consideration for her modesty.

As she pondered, Yan Zhen suddenly scooped her up into his arms, making her gasp and instinctively wrap her arms around his neck.

“Yan Zhen…”

Yan Zhen gently placed Zi Xunyi on the stone bed, climbed on top, and pressed her down.

“It’s time, Zi Ji.”

Zi Xunyi pushed against his chest, a picture of playful resistance, her alluring charm captivating. Her reddish-purple eyes shimmered with moisture, her red lips slightly parted, invitingly moist. Between the open collar of her robe, glimpses of flawless white skin could be seen. The hem of her knee-length skirt had somehow ridden up to her hips, revealing her long, dazzlingly white legs, her delicate feet curled slightly in nervousness.

The purple-haired, purple-eyed young woman, the undisputed belle of the Inner Academy, lay on the bed like a blooming flower, waiting to be plucked by her future husband.

“Yan Zhen, in the future… will you be good to me?”

Yan Zhen brushed aside a strand of her lavender hair and said gently, “Yes, I’ll love you from beginning to end, walk through storms with you, and never leave you.”

“Really? Then, what about… ‘Sister Cai Lian’?”

“Cai Lian is Cai Lian, and you are you. Both of you hold a unique place in my heart.”

Zi Xunyi wasn’t entirely satisfied with this answer. She looked at Yan Zhen resentfully and asked, “Then what am I in your heart?”

Yan Zhen smiled faintly. “Silly girl, ‘You are the only one in my heart, a beautiful myth,’ of course~”

The young woman’s heart trembled, the poignant song echoing in her mind. Her beautiful eyes misted over, and she reached up, cupped his face, and offered him her lips.

—You are also the only one I acknowledge in my heart, my husband.

As if hearing her thoughts, Yan Zhen responded with even greater earnestness.

101 Bathing Together as Husband and Wife

Inside the bathroom, Zi Xunyi sat in the bathtub, cupping hot water in her hands and splashing it onto her face, the heat turning her cheeks a delicate pink, utterly captivating.

After cultivating in the Yang Polar Secret Realm for several days, although her physique had strengthened, some Yang Essence fire poison had accumulated within her body, needing timely expulsion.

Having gone through the process, she was covered in sweat, and had even accidentally burned a hole in her nightgown. Thus, Zi Xunyi decided to bathe again, not expecting Yan Zhen to arrive at this moment.

She was about to say, “I’ll be right out,” but sensed Yan Zhen’s aura rapidly approaching, making her heart tighten.

Could he be…?

Although mentally prepared, she still felt that the bathroom wasn’t quite appropriate.

Zi Xunyi recalled the intimate scene between Yan Zhen and Huangfu Wenqing in the bathroom a few days prior, which she had secretly recorded for… educational purposes.

That scene was too wanton. Just watching it made her blush; how could she be the “leading actress” in such a scenario?

“Wait, Yan Zhen, d-don’t come in!”

However, it was too late. Yan Zhen had already drawn back the curtain.

Zi Xunyi quickly covered her chest with her hands and clamped her legs together, curling up like a hedgehog, preventing Yan Zhen from seeing her pure body, her reddish-purple eyes glaring at him resentfully.

“Didn’t I tell you not to come in?”

Yan Zhen shamelessly said, “I came to help you dispel the accumulated Yang Essence fire poison.”

Zi Xunyi’s heart warmed, but she shook her head. “I’ve already dispelled it myself.”

“Let me check for any residue then.”

Yan Zhen continued his nonsensical excuse as he approached the bathtub, resting his hands on the edge and looking down at Zi Xunyi.

Scattered petals floated on the water’s surface, partially concealing the beautiful scenery beneath, making it even more alluring.

He reached out and gently caressed Zi Xunyi’s cheek.

“If any residue remains, it could cause problems later. And when you enter the Yin Polar Secret Realm in a few days, you might get injured.”

His tone was gentle, yet undeniably firm.

Zi Xunyi bit her lip, hugged her knees to her chest, and lowered her head, shaking it slightly like a scolded child.

Yan Zhen stroked her hair. “Be good, let me see.”

“I don’t want to~”

“Ahem, Long Ying is still sleeping outside. If we wake her up, hmm?”

“Wha—”

Zi Xunyi was both embarrassed and annoyed, but helpless. She had indeed sensed Long Ying’s presence earlier. If Yan Zhen were to… tease her now, and Long Ying woke up, wouldn’t it be exactly like the other day? Only with her and Huangfu Wenqing switching roles.

“W-what do you want?”

Yan Zhen lowered his head and kissed her lips.

Her pupils constricted slightly, clearly startled, but she didn’t resist, obediently closing her eyes, even parting her lips slightly to exchange affection with him.

When the kiss ended, the resentment in Zi Xunyi’s eyes had vanished, replaced by deep affection. The young woman’s face was flushed, her breath catching as her fragrant lips parted slightly.

Yan Zhen straightened up, opened his arms slightly, and looked directly at Zi Xunyi. “Help me undress, okay?”

Zi Xunyi hesitated for a moment, then slowly stretched out her limbs in the water and stood up.

Her beautiful jade-like body glistened with water droplets, flawless skin adorned with pink petals. Her usually flowing lavender hair was pinned up, revealing her long, elegant neck and small, delicate ears. Below, her shoulders and collarbones were captivatingly sensual, and her usually well-concealed, full, rounded breasts were now fully exposed.

Zi Xunyi felt dizzy, unconsciously obeying Yan Zhen’s words, her small hands reaching out to untie his sash, as if she had already become his true wife.

Undoing the sash, removing his nightgown, only his elephant-print boxer briefs remained. Zi Xunyi looked them over, the corners of her lips twitching slightly. She felt the pattern was somewhat childish, not quite matching Yan Zhen’s aura.

But she knew he was quite fond of this elephant pattern, so she suppressed her amusement, lest she provoke his anger and face his… “retaliation.”

Zi Xunyi turned her face away as she removed Yan Zhen’s boxer briefs, yet she couldn’t help but steal a glance or two, her blush deepening, her heart pounding.

Yan Zhen eagerly pulled off the underwear, tossed it aside, stepped into the bathtub, squeezed in beside Zi Xunyi, embraced her from behind, and leaned against the side of the tub, his head resting comfortably.

Zi Xunyi trembled, covering her chest again, and struggled weakly. “N-not here, Yan Zhen, let’s go to the bed—”

Yan Zhen nuzzled his face against her neck, comforting her. “Alright, I’ll just hold you.”

“R-really?”

“Mm-hmm.”

Zi Xunyi immediately quieted down.

Yan Zhen gently caressed her smooth, flat abdomen, his gaze moving past her shoulder to her dantian area.

A faint, noble purple flower was outlined there, very subtle—Zi Xunyi’s bloodline divine mark.

After Zi Xunyi returned to the Celestial God Clan and underwent the divine ritual of the Goddess ceremony, her complete bloodline divine mark would awaken.

When she activated her bloodline power, it would clearly manifest. Additionally, when she was aroused, it would also surface on her skin. This was a common trait among the major God Clans’ bloodline marks, including Cai Lian’s.

Cai Lian’s bloodline mark was on her forehead, appearing as a vertical pupil.

All bloodline divine marks shared a common characteristic: when touched by a loved one or someone close, they would evoke a feeling of warmth and happiness. That’s why, after making love, Yan Zhen would always kiss Cai Lian’s forehead and caress Zi Xunyi’s abdomen.

Now, Yan Zhen traced the lines of the divine mark with his fingertip, causing Zi Xunyi to quickly calm down. Her arms, previously covering her chest, unconsciously relaxed. She even began to feel immersed in the sensation, wanting him to continue caressing her indefinitely.

“Yan Zhen~”

“Good girl. Tonight, I’ll take you to meet Master.”

Zi Xunyi regained some clarity. “Your Master, Yan Zhen, is she the Alchemist Saint?”

Yan Zhen hummed in affirmation. “To ensure the dual cultivation proceeds smoothly, Master needs to be present to protect us.”

“Like this… hmm? Eh?” Zi Xunyi suddenly realized the implication and struggled to turn around, looking at Yan Zhen. “What did you say? The Alchemist Saint will be protecting us?”

“Yes. Master is worried we might make mistakes during the dual cultivation.”

“How can that be!” Zi Xunyi couldn’t accept it. Just imagining the scene made her scalp tingle. “To… to dual cultivate in front of the Alchemist Saint… I can’t do it.”

Yan Zhen also found it strange, but since Beautiful Master had suggested it, it must be the right course of action.

“Don’t worry, Master won’t peek. She’ll just be nearby to guide us.”

“That’s still unacceptable! The Alchemist Saint—Master is an elder!”

“I know it’s hard for you to accept, but this is all for Ling’er.” Yan Zhen could only use their pitiful daughter as leverage. “We don’t have time for trial and error. Master is also doing this out of compassion for Ling’er.”

Zi Xunyi lowered her head, deep in thought. Then, with an almost inaudible sigh, her body softened as she nestled against Yan Zhen’s chest.