Category: Transformed into a Female Villain, But Captured by My Beautiful Girl Disciples

27. Catapult Launch!

 

Her speed was incredible, far beyond what a Core Formation cultivator should be capable of.

Even the Flame Python, using its full speed, could barely keep up.

How… how was this possible!?

However…

Miss Gong wasn’t in a good state either.

Because she desperately needed to pee—no, she felt like she had absorbed too much spiritual energy again, her entire body incredibly sensitive and on edge. Any slight touch could make her scream.

Running at supersonic speed in this state was… an experience. The sensations were probably intense enough to kill a lioness.

But she had no choice.

She had to keep running. If she stopped, the Flame Python would crush her without hesitation.

Fortunately, she had absorbed the python’s concentrated venom, and her six-times-larger-than-average meridians were now filled with its true essence, giving her a temporary speed boost comparable to the python’s.

The human and the snake engaged in a high-speed chase through the forest, and this chase was actually advantageous for Miss Gong.

She just needed to reach the outer area and escape the python’s pursuit.

However, just as she saw the barrier, about to use another dispelling talisman, she slammed into something.

And it wasn’t a solid object, but something… bouncy.

She crashed into it at supersonic speed, the impact creating a dent several hundred meters wide.

Then…

She was launched back in the opposite direction at almost the same speed.

“Holy shit!”

Gong Yiling was dumbfounded. She had become a human cannonball.

In a panic, she quickly held up the remaining Flame King Soft Hedgehog Armor like a matador’s cape, colliding with the oncoming Flame Python.

“Boom!!!”

The impact was like a meteor striking the Earth, though she was more like a tiny satellite.

However, this tiny satellite hit the python’s vital point, its seventh inch. The force of the collision was immense, and the Flame King Soft Hedgehog Armor was as tough as the python’s scales.

So, like a sharp sword, Gong Yiling pierced through the python’s body and crashed into a nearby mountainside.

Although the impact was lessened, Miss Gong still landed face-first, her arms apparently broken in the collision, a searing pain shooting through them whenever she moved.

But it wasn’t all bad.

The collision seemed to have expended about seventy percent of the excess energy in her body, relieving the strange sensation.

But the question was—where was the Flame Python?

She had felt the impact, and it was a direct hit to its vital point.

She struggled to lift her hands and put a healing pill in her mouth. After her arms recovered slightly, she climbed out of the crater she had created and looked around for the giant python.

What she saw shocked her.

The python’s body was originally as thick as a giant tree.

And this giant tree now had a massive hole in it, courtesy of her human cannonball act.

Imagine the force of that impact.

If it were an ordinary python, it would have been cut in half, and its survival would be a miracle.

As for how such a lucky creature ended up here, perhaps it was karma for accumulating too much good fortune, forced to work overtime until it died from exhaustion.

Anyway…

While wondering about the bouncy thing she had hit, Gong Yiling cautiously approached the spot where the Flame Python seemed to have landed.

And she actually found it.

Striking a snake at its seventh inch wasn’t easy, but it was the location of its heart.

Miss Gong’s human cannonball had obliterated the python’s heart.

Now, the python was lying on the ground, its body contorted, letting out pained hisses.

Clearly, it was severely injured.

Gong Yiling’s lips twitched, and she rubbed her forehead in disbelief.

Was this a lucky accident?

A truly accidental accident.

Using a strange bouncy device, a disposable set of Flame King Soft Hedgehog Armor, and the python’s own venom…

She had managed to cripple a Heavenly Venerable beast.

No wonder the girls and Shangguan Lingyue never believed her when she told the truth.

Who would believe such a story?

“It’s… you…”

The Flame Python, enduring the excruciating pain, gritted its teeth. “You… were you waiting for this moment? Did you plan this all along!?”

“Plan?” Gong Yiling muttered, puzzled. “I didn’t just use my hands; I used my feet too.”

Wait… was this Flame Python also starting to think she was some kind of mysterious expert?

Why was everyone overthinking things?

This was strange.

“To maintain your composure, even pretending to be weak…”

The Flame Python stared at Miss Gong, but its gaze was different from before.

Before, it was the look of a predator eyeing its prey, confident in its inevitable victory.

But now, it wasn’t just a predatory gaze.

She could even sense a hint of fear.

“If I said I didn’t do anything, what would you say?”

Gong Yiling shrugged.

“Heh.” The Flame Python struggled to its feet. “Do you think you can still fool me?”

 

 

26. You Can’t Trick a Trickster 

 

Only one person in the world would say “that’s an order” to her.

Qiu Shui froze.

But a moment later, she chopped Little Heehee on the neck, knocking her unconscious. Then, biting her lip, she ran in the opposite direction, away from the central area.

As she ran, tears welled up in her eyes.

If only she were stronger, just a little bit stronger…!

…

…

Gong Yiling watched the giant python approaching, her outward calmness masking her frantic search for a solution.

She did have a trump card, one that could send anyone to another world.

But it was best to save it for a true emergency. Knowing the system’s quirks, she might just end up being teleported back to the same spot.

As for the current situation…

“You’re actually staying here to die?”

The Flame Python didn’t seem worried at all. “Although that girl has something I need, you carry a scent I despise. Interesting.”

“A scent you despise?”

Gong Yiling racked her brain but couldn’t figure it out.

She didn’t know much about the Calamity Heart Flame Python. The Heartflame Empire wouldn’t provoke it without reason.

However, although a demonic beast, it hated demonic cultivators, actively attacking any who entered the Yanxing Great Forest.

Did it sense her demonic cultivation?

Miss Gong’s eyes flickered, and she decided to stall. “I’m curious, what does a dignified Heavenly Venerable venomous python despise?”

“You want to hear a story?” The Flame Python said, “Don’t think I don’t know you’re stalling for time. But can you withstand my poison? Can you guarantee they won’t come back to save you?”

“Little girl, don’t think human intelligence can save you. Before me, you’re just an ant I can crush at any moment.”

“Is that so?”

Gong Yiling, secretly using the Blood Orchid Palace’s secret technique to absorb the poisonous mist, said confidently, “If you’re so sure, then what are you afraid of?”

“Afraid of what?”

The Flame Python roared with laughter. “I’ve never been defeated in my life, except for that one time I was ambushed by that bitch Gong Muzhi. Do you need to hear this to give up?”

Ah… uh… what…

Gong Yiling’s jaw dropped.

The book only mentioned the Flame Python being defeated and sealed in the central area, without mentioning who did it.

Who would have thought it was… her mother!?

No wonder it said she carried a scent it despised.

So that was it.

“That old witch!”

Gong Yiling exclaimed, feigning shock, while muttering inwardly—*I’m not a rebellious daughter! Mom, you have to understand!*

“Why are you so agitated?” The Flame Python was confused. “Do you hate her too?”

“Of course!” Gong Yiling said, “That old witch slaughtered my entire family! I infiltrated their ranks to get revenge!”

“Is that true?”

“Why would I lie to you?” Gong Yiling continued, “And honestly, even in your current state, you want to kill her? Heh, that’s wishful thinking.”

The Flame Python, already puzzled, was now enraged. “What did you say!?”

“I said, even now, you’re no match for that old witch.”

Gong Yiling looked at it disdainfully. “Heavenly Venerable? Heh, even if you absorb that girl’s meager phoenix true essence, will it even be enough to fill the gaps between your teeth?”

“This…”

Ahem… Gong Yiling didn’t actually know if it would be enough.

And more importantly… the Flame Python didn’t know either.

It only knew that this Heavenly Fox bloodline with phoenix true essence was definitely stronger than itself, but how much stronger it would become after consuming it…

It had no idea.

“Then what do you suggest?”

“Are you stupid?” Gong Yiling’s tone became increasingly arrogant. “Aren’t you good with poisons? Show me, how strong is your venom?”

“Venom?”

“Do I look like I’ve been poisoned?” Gong Yiling said. “To tell you the truth, I’m a poison master, trained by the Poison King Gul’dan. I can turn a brown-faced man green. Your venom is nothing to me.”

The Flame Python was stunned. Thinking about it, it seemed true.

This girl, a mere Core Formation ant, could withstand its poison for so long. If it wasn’t because of some poison resistance, he couldn’t explain it.

“Then what are you…?”

“Of course, I’m helping you test if your venom is effective against her. Otherwise, you’ll just charge in blindly and get beaten to a pulp.”

“Ah… that makes sense.”

The Flame Python thought about it.

Its venom was ineffective last time because it wasn’t strong enough.

But this time was different!

Its venom had become much stronger after all these years. Maybe it would work now?

And this girl didn’t seem to be lying. Even if she was, it didn’t matter. He could crush her with one strike.

So, the Flame Python gathered all its power, condensing it into a sphere of venomous energy.

The purple sphere grew to the size of Gong Yiling, its power terrifying. Even the outer layer of the poisonous mist could incinerate everything.

But…

Miss Gong continued to circulate her special technique, its advantage fully displayed at this moment.

As long as she circulated her energy, she was immune to poison!?

Absurd, utterly absurd.

And she had another reason for provoking the python’s venom—

The moment her hand touched the venomous sphere, she pushed her cultivation technique to the limit.

A gust of wind erupted, the purple mist churning, and the Flame Python didn’t even realize what was happening.

When it finally reacted, Gong Yiling was gone, leaving only a single sentence:

“See ya!”

This… had he been tricked?

But how did that girl escape so quickly? What kind of magical pill did she take?

 

 

 

25. What Harm They’ve Caused!

 

“That Divine Phoenix Fox Demon bloodline is truly potent.”

Watching the assassins being swallowed by the wave of demonic beasts, Miss Gong clicked her tongue.

This girl wasn’t just capable of becoming the Empress; she could also command an army of demonic beasts.

Wow.

Imagine the Heartflame army, crimson-clad soldiers riding high-level demonic beasts, sweeping across the battlefield.

How cool.

Just then, the beasts, having dealt with the assassins, turned their attention towards her.

This made Gong Yiling’s hair stand on end. She quickly brushed off the dust and ran.

Soon, she saw the sorry state of Shangguan Qingyun and Young Master Xuli.

Despite their strength, they were outnumbered.

Even a human-shaped Gundam couldn’t withstand a barrage of attacks from unkillable enemies, especially attacks as disgusting as… well, you get the picture.

By the time she arrived, they were covered in wounds, their earlier arrogance gone.

To conserve energy, they could only ignore the less damaging attacks.

Like the demonic beast that urinated on them.

Not much damage, but incredibly insulting.

Being targeted by over a hundred beasts, they didn’t have the time to retaliate.

“As cultivators, disciples of the so-called descendant of the old sect, resorting to such despicable methods—”

Before Shangguan Qingyun could finish, three streams of urine hit him in the face, forcing him to dodge quickly.

The urine landed on Young Master Xuli instead.

“Shangguan Qingyun!”

“What does this have to do with me?”

They glared at each other, their friendship on the verge of collapse.

“If it weren’t for your invitation, would I be in this situation?”

Shangguan Qingyun sneered. “Xuli, you were the one who coveted the Flame King Soft Hedgehog Armor. Do you think I could have forced you otherwise?”

Young Master Xuli: “Isn’t this your fault for being overconfident? I shouldn’t have listened to you. The future ruler of the Heartflame Empire, being played by a few girls.”

“And who was the one demanding spoils earlier? You don’t deserve the title of First Young Master. You’re worse than a beggar.”

“Who are you calling a beggar!?”

They started arguing, leaving the surrounding beasts confused, unsure whether to attack or not.

Just as the beasts were about to resume their attack, an invisible wave of energy swept through the area.

This wave contained an unknown power, causing the beasts, previously focused on the two men, to become agitated.

And the one controlling the beasts also felt a sudden surge of fear.

This fear came from…

“Oh no.”

Lu Xinyao’s face paled. “It’s the Flame Python!”

“The Flame Python?” Qiu Shui was stunned. “We’re only at the outer edge of the central area. How could the Flame Python be here?”

“I don’t know…” Fear consumed Lu Xinyao’s courage, and she transformed into Little Heehee, instinctively looking in a certain direction.

They saw birds and beasts scattering, the poisonous mist churning and spreading towards them.

The sound of something large crashing through the trees echoed in the distance.

Gong Yiling also sensed its presence.

Not just the suffocating pressure from the energy wave, but also the long-awaited system notification.

“Notification: Congratulations! You have encountered the world boss, Calamity Heart Flame Python. Defeating this boss grants a large amount of world reputation, significantly increasing the influence of the Great One Engineering Sect and the host’s legitimacy.”

“I forgot what level it is.”

“Peak Heavenly Venerable.”

“Fuck that.”

Gong Yiling cursed, then rushed to the two girls, grabbing their arms and running.

“What are you waiting for? Run!”

But before they could get far, the two men, previously abandoned by the beasts, appeared before them.

“You want to fight? Fine.” Seeing their murderous intent, Gong Yiling said, “But first, tell me who I am.”

“I don’t care who you—”

“Boom!!!!”

Just as Shangguan Qingyun attacked, a cluster of Demonic Qiong Trees behind them exploded.

A giant shadow loomed in the purple mist, making the First Prince’s eyes widen in horror.

Young Master Xuli, about to use a technique, was suddenly slapped by the First Prince.

“Are you crazy, Shangguan Qingyun?”

“If you die here, remember to tell your master that you brought this upon yourself.”

Shangguan Qingyun glared at him, then sneered, activating a Flashbang Talisman, the same type Gong Yiling used.

But its purpose wasn’t to cover their escape, but to disorient Gong Yiling and the girls.

Yes.

When the blinding light subsided, the two men were gone.

And the Flame Python, previously at a distance, was now close enough for them to see its massive head.

What a peculiar creature.

“Those bastards,” Gong Yiling’s face darkened. “Not only did they run away, but they also trapped us here.”

“What should we do?” Qiu Shui asked anxiously.

Gong Yiling continued running, feeling the python closing in.

Finally, she took a deep breath and released their hands.

“You go.”

Her words shocked Qiu Shui and Little Heehee.

“You?”

“Big… Sister?”

“I was the one who brought you here. Now that we’ve encountered this thing, I have to ensure your safety. It’s my responsibility.”

She turned around, smiling and winking. “Besides, we can’t all stay here. Someone has to go and get help.”

“I’m staying!”

Little Heehee looked at Gong Yiling resolutely. “I won’t leave you alone.”

Turning her head, seeing the determination in the girl’s eyes, Gong Yiling seemed to understand.

Had she been recognized?

However…

“Qiu Shui,” Gong Yiling said in a commanding tone, “take her and leave. That’s an order.”

 

 

 

24. The Power of Bloodlines 

 

“A coincidence?”

Qiu Shui raised an eyebrow and smiled calmly. “Your Highness seems to be in high spirits. Are you planning to lead a crusade against the Flame Python in the central area, ridding the world of this menace?”

Shangguan Qingyun knew there was no point in pretending. His face darkened as he asked, “You detected the Thousand Miles Fragrance?”

“What do you think?”

Qiu Shui pointed at Lu Xinyao’s sleeve, a large piece torn off, clearly ripped away.

That piece of cloth was currently tied to a demonic beast whose tail was on fire, desperately running towards a water source.

The Thousand Miles Fragrance Shangguan Qingyun smelled came from that beast.

As for Lu Xinyao, Gong Yiling had used a talisman to mask her scent.

Yes, even scents detectable only with special antidotes could be completely erased by a talisman.

This type of talisman was also known as the “Anti-Spying Happy Talisman.”

Of course, Qiu Shui and Lu Xinyao didn’t know how Gong Yiling knew about the Thousand Miles Fragrance.

In Gong Yiling’s own words, it was “a man’s intuition.”

“So you set a trap after discovering you were being followed?”

Shangguan Qingyun stopped Young Master Xuli from acting, then turned back and asked, “And the barrier to the central area? You removed it around the same time?”

“Your Highness is truly inquisitive,” Qiu Shui replied. “Without such preparations, how could we lure you into our trap?”

Shangguan Qingyun burst out laughing.

“Interesting. I thought I was dealing with two unknown wildflowers, but it turns out they’re rare treasures hidden beneath the snow.”

He sneered at the demonic beasts surrounding Qiu Shui and Lu Xinyao, true essence gathering in his palm, his Profound Void aura erupting.

He didn’t understand why the beasts were helping them, but the situation was clear.

There was no need for assassins.

Since his intentions were exposed, he would act personally.

Young Master Xuli shared the same thought.

But his intentions were more… lascivious. He licked his lips and said, “Brother Shangguan, you only want the girl with purplish-red hair, right?”

“Then may I have the pleasure of… tasting the black-haired one?”

Shangguan Qingyun frowned. “As long as they’re dead, do as you please.”

“Compared to the living, I find the dead more… appealing.”

With that, they both attacked.

They thought the demonic beasts were just a disorganized rabble, easily dealt with.

But they were wrong.

These beasts, who should have been easily defeated, possessed incredible regenerative abilities. They couldn’t be killed.

Initially, they thought it was the beasts’ own ability, but then they realized…

It wasn’t the beasts’ self-healing, but a cultivator skilled in healing arts.

There was a healer present?

Shangguan Qingyun noticed the unique aura of Qiu Shui’s healing arts and frowned.

Perhaps he needed to reconsider this girl’s value.

However, they had underestimated the situation.

Even as Profound Void cultivators, they were at a disadvantage in this chaotic battle. They couldn’t even kill a single beast, and the number of beasts…

Was increasing.

Why were these demonic beasts obeying the two girls?

The answer lay ten minutes earlier.

After Gong Yiling took out the barrier-breaking talisman, the scent-masking talisman, and various other items from her… pocket…

The two girls were still puzzled about how they could defeat so many assassins, plus two much stronger cultivators.

But Gong Yiling gave them a cryptic answer.

“Why do you think I led them to the central area?”

“To have the demonic beasts there deal with them?” Qiu Shui asked. “But… how can we be sure they’ll help us? And finding so many beasts in such a short time isn’t easy.”

“I never said we needed to find them.” Gong Yiling’s reply was puzzling. “We can make them come to us.”

“How?”

“Others can’t do it, but you can.” Gong Yiling looked at Lu Xinyao. “If I’m not mistaken, your demonic bloodline is not ordinary. If used correctly, attracting those beasts shouldn’t be difficult.”

“What!?”

Her words shocked the two girls.

How did she know about Lu Xinyao’s bloodline?

“Don’t worry, I have my ways. Not everyone can know her secret.” Gong Yiling shrugged. “Now isn’t the time to question how I know. The question is, are you willing to listen to me and take a gamble?”

“Whether we can defeat those two depends on you.”

Hearing this, Lu Xinyao almost guessed her identity.

Who else had the same aura as Big Sister and knew about her demonic bloodline?

This was a blatant hint. The woman before them could only be Gong Yiling.

But since Big Sister didn’t want to reveal herself, Lu Xinyao didn’t say anything. After agreeing, she released her bloodline aura in the central area.

Whether it was the Heavenly Phoenix Fox Demon bloodline or the even stronger Phoenix bloodline, it was like a summoning call to ordinary demonic beasts.

In the demonic beast world, where bloodline determined everything, the aura of a high-level beast, or even a divine beast, was a rare and powerful force.

So, all the beasts in the central area would instinctively gather, awaiting the commands of this bloodline’s owner.

Even if the owner didn’t look like a demonic beast, even if they looked almost human, they would still obey.

Just like now.

 

23. A Plan Within a Plan 

 

“Follow me.”

Amidst the blinding light, Qiu Shui and Lu Xinyao felt someone grab their hands and pull them along at a breakneck pace.

When the dizziness subsided, they realized the person was…

“It’s you?” Qiu Shui looked at Gong Yiling, then calmly thanked her. “Thank you for saving us.”

“But how did you…?”

“Oh, I was nearby. I saw the fire and came to investigate.”

Gong Yiling hid the anti-mother weapon and looked behind them. “Good, they didn’t follow.”

“But this is the competition area. Why were they chasing you?”

—Miss Gong already had a guess.

The answer was obvious. Whoever controlled this area was the one behind the attack.

Undoubtedly, it was Shangguan Yaochang who sent the assassins.

And they weren’t sent in after the competition began!

To avoid attention, he must have had them hide beforehand.

And the First Prince and Young Master Xuli coming here first… their purpose must have been to instruct the assassins.

“I’m the only one who showed my face in the palace,” Lu Xinyao said, realizing the truth.

“It’s Shangguan Qingyun.” She gripped Qiu Shui’s arm.

“He wouldn’t attack us personally, so after finding us, he must have notified the assassins.”

But instead of worrying about their own situation, the two girls were concerned about Gong Yiling.

“Will they target Master too?” Qiu Shui frowned. “There’s no one protecting her.”

Lu Xinyao nodded. “I think so too. Should we withdraw and warn Big Sister?”

“Yes… Master’s safety is more important.”

They were about to crush the blue crystals they had been given.

Their concern surprised Gong Yiling.

But she wouldn’t let them waste this opportunity.

She stopped them and said, “Don’t worry, your master is with Shangguan Lingyue. She’ll be fine. But you two… are you planning to run away?”

“Run away?”

Her words irked them again.

“I just took a look,”

Miss Gong smiled and clapped her hands. “Those guys aren’t that strong. The strongest is only at Return to Origin. You two aren’t afraid of them, are you?”

Afraid? Not really…

But there were at least fifteen of them.

They couldn’t fight so many people!

“I know what you’re thinking.” Gong Yiling said, “What if I told you I have a way to deal with those assassins, and even make the First Prince suffer?”

She took out a talisman with a strange symbol on it—a “No Parking” sign.

“Want to try it?”

—

—

Time passed.

The First Prince led the group through the forest, while Young Master Xuli used his techniques to conceal them from sight.

Even if they passed right in front of other participants, they wouldn’t be seen.

But as they walked, the First Prince sensed something amiss.

They were heading towards the central area.

“Your Highness, they…”

The lead assassin also noticed this and asked, “Are you sure they went this way?”

Normally, anyone questioning him like this would face consequences.

But this time… he didn’t react.

He was also puzzled.

He knew their location because of a special incense called Thousand Miles Fragrance.

Colorless and odorless, those affected by it wouldn’t even realize it.

Others, however, could smell it with a special antidote.

This incense was incredibly valuable on the black market. If he hadn’t needed to control Lu Xinyao, Shangguan Qingyun, having just suffered a major financial loss, wouldn’t have used it.

He had applied the incense to the two girls while greeting them. Theoretically, they shouldn’t know they were being tracked.

Could it be… they were intentionally heading towards the central area?

“Heh—” Shangguan Qingyun sneered.

If they were courting death, then he wouldn’t stop them!

He quickened his pace.

After following them for a while, until the surrounding scenery changed significantly, Shangguan Qingyun realized something.

“This is… still the outer area?”

He looked around.

The plants here had a distinct purple hue. He knew this was the result of absorbing the poisonous mist.

These trees were called Demonic Qiong Trees. They absorbed the toxins, turning their leaves and branches purple, but their unique filtering system ensured their fruits and sap remained untainted.

These trees sustained the demonic beasts living between the outer and central areas.

But their presence here meant they were no longer within the designated competition area, but had entered a dangerous zone.

“Stop!”

Shangguan Qingyun frowned. “We’ve been tricked.”

“Is this the central area?” The lead assassin asked, puzzled. “But we haven’t encountered the barrier. It requires a special dispelling talisman to break, right?”

Shangguan Qingyun glared at him coldly. “What if those two girls have such a talisman?”

Just as he finished speaking, demonic roars echoed through the forest, followed by tremors and the continuous roars of giant beasts, confirming his suspicions.

However, the sudden appearance of demonic beasts didn’t faze Shangguan Qingyun and Young Master Xuli.

They immediately abandoned the assassins and fled.

But soon, they encountered another group of demonic beasts, seemingly waiting for them. And behind the beasts stood their original targets, Qiu Shui and Lu Xinyao.

“It’s you two.”

Shangguan Qingyun, looking at the hostile beasts surrounding them, greeted them calmly. “What a coincidence.”

 

 

22. Murder in the Forest 

 

Even with over three hundred people, the chances of encountering others in the vast forest were slim.

Qiu Shui and Lu Xinyao followed Lu Xinyao’s knowledge of the forest, searching for rare herbs and adjusting their route based on the time.

They encountered two teams. One team recognized them and quickly retreated, while the other was scared off by Qiu Shui’s spiritual arts.

Coincidentally, while encountering the second team, Qiu Shui’s plant manipulation accidentally unearthed a number 7 card.

“This is…”

Recalling the other woman’s suggestion, Qiu Shui suddenly realized something.

Could this be the true meaning of this test? The number cards on them were just a distraction. The real key to victory was the hidden items within the forest…

“What’s wrong, Qiu Shui?”

“Look at this.” Qiu Shui handed the number card to Lu Xinyao. “Perhaps that woman really is a good person.”

Gong Yiling, inexplicably friend-zoned, chuckled awkwardly in the distance.

“This is…?”

“She must have guessed that there are other number cards hidden in the forest, so she suggested we split up to search, so she wouldn’t know our scores.”

Lu Xinyao examined the card, muttering, “Actually, that woman…”

“That woman?” Qiu Shui turned around, looking at her curiously. “What about her?”

To Little Heehee’s senses, that woman carried a faint scent of Big Sister.

As a demonic beast, her instincts were sharp.

But Big Sister… shouldn’t be here, right?

“Nothing.” Lu Xinyao shook her head, smiling. “It must be my imagination. Don’t worry about it, Qiu Shui.”

“Okay, then let’s continue searching for these cards.”

“Alright.”

The two were quite efficient together.

Lu Xinyao knew the locations of the forest’s treasures, while Qiu Shui could communicate with plants, sensing the presence of number cards nearby.

After confirming their locations, all they had to do was dig them up.

With this cooperation, they found six number cards in just one hour.

The numbers were mostly mid-range, adding up to almost 30.

Since they could only keep three cards, they had already completed the task.

“It’s almost time.”

They calculated the time and decided to head back instead of venturing further.

However, just then, they heard rustling sounds from the bushes ahead, as if someone was approaching.

As the bushes parted, Qiu Shui sensed a surge of anger from Lu Xinyao.

Standing before them were Shangguan Qingyun and Young Master Xuli.

It was them…?

Qiu Shui’s heart sank. She instinctively pulled Lu Xinyao behind her and addressed them, “Your Highness.”

Shangguan Qingyun glanced at them, his gaze lingering on the hostile Lu Xinyao. “I heard your master cured my father’s illness?”

Lu Xinyao had visited the palace a few times, so it was normal for the First Prince to recognize her.

“Yes…” Lu Xinyao suppressed the urge to transform into Little Heehee and unleash her fury, nodding silently.

“In that case, I’ll give you face.” The First Prince said, “I won’t do anything to you in this forest. Let’s not interfere with each other. Please.”

His words were strange.

Coming here just to say such pointless things, what was his purpose?

And after saying this, he actually turned and left.

Young Master Xuli, however, looked at Qiu Shui and Lu Xinyao with lecherous intent.

But he didn’t say anything and quickly followed the First Prince.

“What was that about…?”

Lu Xinyao and Qiu Shui exchanged glances.

This interlude was both sudden and strange. They didn’t dwell on it and continued towards the meeting point.

But…

The closer they got, the more unsettling the silence became.

Even the wind rustling through the leaves seemed muted… this was definitely not normal.

Suddenly, the surrounding bushes rustled violently.

A group of men in black, armed with weapons, emerged, surrounding them. And their target… seemed to be Lu Xinyao.

“Assassins in the competition grounds?”

Qiu Shui didn’t hesitate. She channeled her true essence, summoning dozens of towering vines, sweeping them towards the attackers.

Lu Xinyao was also puzzled. Even the Grand Elder couldn’t see through her disguise. Why were these assassins targeting her?

But…

Confusion aside…

She didn’t hesitate either.

Several fireballs ignited Qiu Shui’s vines, turning the surrounding forest into a sea of flames.

Taking advantage of the spreading fire, they slipped away unnoticed.

But these assassins weren’t pushovers.

Within seconds, a cultivator with water-type spiritual arts extinguished the flames.

Having only traveled a short distance, they couldn’t escape the assassins’ notice.

However, just as the assassins were about to attack again, a blinding flash erupted before them.

Far brighter than staring directly at the sun, it stunned the assassins.

When their vision cleared, the two girls were gone.

Only a talisman, slowly fluttering to the ground, remained.

“Now what…?”

The assassins exchanged glances.

They had just received orders from their employer, and now this…

Their employer wasn’t known for his patience.

“I knew this wouldn’t be easy.”

The First Prince’s voice suddenly rang out as he appeared.

He glanced at the assassins and sneered. “Prince Changning has truly raised a bunch of useless fools, unable to even handle two girls.”

“Your Highness… we have failed you!”

“No need to tell me that.” Shangguan Qingyun glared at them coldly. “I have a way to find them. If this happens again, you know the consequences.”

 

21. Turbulent Undercurrents 

 

“There’s nothing wrong with the number cards,” Shangguan Yaochang announced, silencing those who were about to question the distribution.

The prince’s words were final. The low-value cards were intentional.

“The fifteen minutes for questions are over. The teams I call will enter now. If you don’t enter, you’ll be considered withdrawn.”

“First group: Shangguan Qingyun, Young Master Xuli.”

The first group called was actually them.

As if they knew about the number cards beforehand, they immediately entered the forest and disappeared.

This made Gong Yiling frown.

She thought the First Prince and Prince Changning should have communicated beforehand.

And as the strongest team, they should have waited for the group with the number 9 to enter and robbed them immediately. That would make more sense.

This meant…

Gong Yiling suddenly had a realization.

Could the low value of the number cards be because there were higher-value items hidden within the forest?

The organizers never said that stealing from others was the *only* way to obtain number cards.

If there were high-value resources available, it would also spark conflict, and the elimination rate would be much higher than simple one-on-one battles.

“Qiu… ahem, you two,”

Gong Yiling said to the two girls after figuring things out, “I suggest you don’t bother fighting others. Focus on searching the forest for resources. The people here only have 1s or 2s. Stealing from them is pointless.”

Although the two girls didn’t like this woman, her words made sense.

Their current cards were practically worthless.

It was better to focus on searching for treasures in the forest.

But this strategy… sounded like something their own master would come up with.

“It seems you two have no objections,” Gong Yiling continued. “Then let’s agree on a meeting point. I suggest you two stick together, but if you separate, meet back there every hour and a half.”

Qiu Shui didn’t see any problems with this and agreed.

Just then, Shangguan Yaochang called their team’s name.

As they entered, Gong Yiling noticed Prince Changning glancing at Qiu Shui with a cold expression.

Hmph.

Having this man supervise the competition, she had anticipated him making a move.

There were many spies in the palace. The news of her curing the Emperor might have already reached him.

Villains, unable to deal with the master, often targeted the disciples.

And since Qiu Shui and the others were staying at Shangguan Lingyue’s manor, Prince Changning had no opportunity to act.

Now was his best chance to send a warning.

—

—

Following Lu Xinyao’s instructions, the three arrived at a pond in the outer area. A giant tree, much taller than the surrounding trees, stood to the left of the pond, a perfect landmark for their meeting point.

“And…”

Lu Xinyao took out a small shovel and dug at the base of the tree, unearthing some buried fruit.

“These are the fruits of the Qiongling Tree. They fall and bury themselves in the soil when ripe.”

She handed a fruit to Qiu Shui, then hesitated before handing another to Qiu Shui for Gong Yiling, quickly hiding behind Qiu Shui.

“This fruit… one can keep you full for a day… and restore true essence and heal injuries.”

“Thanks, kid.”

Gong Yiling took the fruit, ate it down to the core, and let out a loud burp.

Then, she kept her promise and headed in a different direction, using her Blood Orchid Demonic Art to search for treasures.

Not far away, she actually found a patch of spiritual herbs.

A hidden, two-colored flower, seemingly a young sprout of the Other Shore Twin Flowers.

Normally, upon finding such a sprout, it was best to mark the location and leave it undisturbed.

After all, its potency was less than a tenth of a mature plant, and it couldn’t be transplanted. Taking it would be a waste.

However, Gong Yiling dug it up and tossed it into her Universe Ring, wanting to confirm her suspicions.

—*Thud.*

A sound of something hard hitting something hard.

She dug further and unearthed the object, confirming her guess.

It was a number card with the digit “6.”

“So that’s how it is…”

Gong Yiling cleaned the card and tried to put it in her Universe Ring, but it was rejected, just like her “1” card.

This surprised her.

According to Gong Youyuan’s setting, spatial storage items could hold anything except living beings.

Could this card… be a living being?

But she didn’t dwell on it.

She tucked both cards into her clothes and returned to the meeting point.

She couldn’t just leave the two girls alone in this dangerous environment.

As their master, she had to be responsible.

—

—

Meanwhile, in the central area of the Yanxing Great Forest, a giant python slowly emerged from the swamp.

An ominous aura emanated from it, and wherever its poisonous mist spread, all living things withered and decayed. Only venomous insects, monsters, and plants could survive here.

They formed a grotesque and twisted landscape.

“This scent…”

The python’s vertical pupils flickered with a strange light. “The bloodline of a phoenix… and a unique celestial fox aura…”

Its body swayed with excitement. “Interesting, very interesting.”

“Phoenix true essence, such a nourishing delicacy. It will greatly enhance my cultivation.”

Its voice was filled with anticipation and suppressed rage.

“Gong Muzhi—”

It remembered the woman who trapped it here. “Once I escape this place… I will have my revenge on you, you vile woman!”

 

20. The Calamity Heart Flame Python

At these words, a few people gasped, but most showed no reaction.

A mere forest. How could it be more dangerous than a secret realm filled with unknown traps and deadly creatures?

They were wrong.

Gong Yiling knew quite a few secrets about the Yanxing Great Forest.

At the heart of the central area lay a vast swamp.

And within that swamp lived a peak-level demonic beast, the Calamity Heart Flame Python.

This python was quite peculiar.

Despite the “Flame” in its name, it wasn’t a fire-type python, but a venomous one, far more terrifying.

It was only called a Flame Python because of its fiery red-brown scales.

As for how terrifying it was…

A demonic beast’s peak strength was determined by its bloodline. Shangguan Ziyuan, with her Divine Phoenix Fox Demon bloodline, was infinitely close to a phoenix, so her peak strength was the Divine Venerable realm, like a true divine beast.

But a random mutt’s peak strength might not even be enough to withstand a few kicks.

As for the Calamity Heart Flame Python, the “Calamity Heart” in its name meant “center of disaster.”

Literally, this python was the source of poison, the embodiment of calamity.

If it entered a city, it could turn all the residents, including cultivators below Earthly Nether realm, into bones in an instant, without even lifting a finger.

Even Heavenly Venerable experts wouldn’t dare provoke it easily. Even if they could defeat it, they would suffer greatly from its venom.

And its poison wasn’t limited to the swamp.

The poisonous mist was densest in the swamp, gradually weakening as it spread outwards.

The further away, the lighter the color and the weaker the toxicity. Near the outer edges of the central area, the effects of the poison were negligible.

“But then, why is there such a large buffer zone?”

Qiu Shui, listening to Lu Xinyao’s explanation, couldn’t help but ask.

“Think about it,” Lu Xinyao explained, “there’s a giant monster in the center, creating a large inaccessible area. What about the other high-level demonic beasts living in the forest?”

Qiu Shui finally understood.

That was the key.

The high-level beasts’ habitat was compressed. With the human-made barrier on the outer edge, they were forced to compete for survival in a limited space.

If someone foolishly entered the central area, unaware of the danger…

They would be torn to shreds by the demonic beasts.

That’s why Shangguan Yaochang guaranteed the safety of participants in the outer area. If they entered the central area—they were on their own.

“Any other questions?” Shangguan Yaochang asked. “If not, please confirm your teams. I’ll send someone to record your team information and distribute the number cards in twenty minutes.”

There was no need to discuss their team formation.

Gong Yiling stuck to her two disciples like glue, and they felt obligated to let her participate.

They wrote down their names on the registration form.

Qiu Ming, Lu Xinyao, and Bao Qijin.

Giving herself a random name felt cool. Miss Gong finally understood why the system called the old sect the Great One Engineering Sect. What a sense of humor.

But her amusement vanished when she saw her number card.

It had a single digit on it:

“1.”

How embarrassing.

It seemed her luck had turned sour after recruiting so many overpowered disciples. Out of ten digits, she got a 1. All she needed was a 0 to complete the set.

“What did you two get?” Gong Yiling asked, twitching her lips.

Qiu Shui asked suspiciously, “Didn’t you say you wouldn’t ask?”

“I’m feeling unlucky. Need some comfort.”

She showed them her card. Qiu Shui wasn’t surprised.

The two girls exchanged glances and showed her their cards.

They were “1” and “2.”

“Huh?”

Miss Gong was stunned.

They couldn’t be this unlucky, right? They had the three lowest numbers.

Then, whispers spread through the crowd, turning into open complaints.

The participants weren’t supposed to reveal their numbers.

But their numbers… seemed absurd.

“How the hell did I get a 1?”

“You got a 1? Holy shit, me too!”

“You too?”

“I don’t know. The guy I came with got a 2.”

“That’s not much better. 2 is practically the same as 1.”

“Guys, I got a 3! Am I set? You all seem to have 1s.”

“I’m different. I got a 4.”

“Then let’s target this guy and steal his 4.”

“Seriously? You’re even after a 4?”

Suddenly, an idiot in the crowd shouted excitedly after receiving his card,

“9! Hahahaha, I got a 9!”

The noisy crowd fell silent.

The man immediately realized his mistake.

Dozens, if not hundreds, of eyes stared at him, as if ready to tear him apart.

“Uh… actually, I misread it. It’s a 0. My eyesight… isn’t very good.”

At this point, any attempt at damage control was futile.

Gong Yiling offered a silent prayer for the man, then frowned in confusion.

What was going on?

Over seventy percent of those present seemed to have 0, 1, 2, or 3.

Only ten percent had numbers above 6, and the rest remained silent, their numbers unknown.

But regardless of their numbers, even those in the top eighty wouldn’t reach an average of 15.

Strange… this was very strange…

With such low numbers, no one could guarantee advancement even if they managed to steal a few 7s or 8s.

Now, the best strategy wasn’t collecting number cards, but eliminating opponents, forcing them out of the forest. Every eliminated opponent was one less competitor.

—

—

 

 

Chapter 19: I Roast Myself

Since the competition format allowed teams of two or more, it was designed to handle ties in average scores.

As long as there was trust, theoretically, the more members a team had, the better their chances, even with some participants consuming scores.

So, on the surface, it looked like Gong Yiling was clinging to two strong teammates, but actually—no!

In reality, she chose to team up with them to ensure the two girls could steadily advance to the top eighty, instead of trying to consume scores on her own.

“Why should we trust you?” Qiu Shui was still wary.

Although the woman’s words made sense, it didn’t necessarily mean they could cooperate.

“You can choose not to trust me.” Gong Yiling shrugged. “Four hundred people, each with a card. Getting a total of 15 points isn’t easy.”

“You two can aim for 14 points, and you don’t have to tell me your score. I’ll aim for 15.”

If their scores were different, score consumption wouldn’t be possible. And each person only had one chance to request it from the judges. If they used it up without being able to consume any scores, they lost the opportunity.

Seeing Qiu Shui’s hesitation, Gong Yiling decided to provoke her.

“Opportunities and challenges coexist. If you two lack the courage, it’s only natural for you to stop here.”

“You…!”

Qiu Shui and Lu Xinyao glared at her, feeling a surge of competitiveness.

But it wasn’t a hostile competitiveness, more like a desire to prove themselves, to refute her words.

They exchanged glances, confirming each other’s thoughts, then turned to Gong Yiling. “We agree.”

“Being provoked so easily isn’t a sign of maturity.”

Gong Yiling chuckled, then turned and waved dismissively before they could reply. “Thank you for your generosity. See you tomorrow.”

She left gracefully, but her words had a significant impact on the two girls.

Later that evening, they were still sulking when Gong Yiling noticed.

“I heard the rules for tomorrow’s competition have been confirmed.”

Gong Yiling casually mentioned it while eating the late-night snacks Yan Chuyue brought them. “Is there something wrong with the rules? You two don’t seem happy.”

Qiu Shui mumbled, “It’s not the rules.”

“Then what?”

Little Heehee immediately chimed in, “We met a very annoying person.”

“Annoying person?”

“Yes!” Little Heehee said indignantly. “That bad person said Qiu Shui and I lack courage and aren’t mature!”

Gong Yiling feigned surprise. “How could she say such a thing? That’s outrageous!”

“Yes,” Little Heehee stuck out her tongue. “But we still let her join our team. We’ll show her we’re not like what she said.”

Gong Yiling nodded. “Yes, you should teach her a lesson. That clueless idiot! I hope her food has no seasoning!”

“Pfft—”

Yan Chuyue burst out laughing.

Qiu Shui and Little Heehee looked at her, puzzled.

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing, nothing.” Yan Chuyue waved her hand dismissively. “I just remembered a funny story.”

“What story?”

“There was once a pig. When asked what pigs looked like, it said pigs were stupid.”

Was… that story funny?

Qiu Shui and Little Heehee exchanged glances, confusion in their eyes.

Of course…

Just because they didn’t understand didn’t mean Gong Yiling didn’t.

Miss Gong rolled her eyes at Yan Chuyue, grabbed another skewer, and stuffed it into her mouth…

“What the hell is this? No seasoning! Negative review!!!”

—

—

The next day, all the participants were taken to a suburban area outside the city.

It was the royal hunting grounds, the Yanxing Great Forest.

Blessed with favorable natural conditions, it was ideal for cultivating various herbs and was home to many unique demonic beasts.

It was only open to the public once or twice a year, either for competitions like this or for the royal family’s spring and summer hunts.

Therefore, the plants here had at least six months of recovery time, and there were still many rare items to be found.

And…

If one were lucky enough to find one of the hidden secret realms, it would be more than just a small fortune.

“The rules have been posted yesterday, and those with questions have received explanations,”

The man standing at the front of the group was another influential figure of the Heartflame Empire.

Prince Changning, Shangguan Yaochang.

He was the current Emperor’s younger brother and a former contender for the throne. The previous Emperor supposedly favored him.

However, he had voluntarily withdrawn from the competition, accepting the title of prince and some insignificant responsibilities.

Even now, many were puzzled by his decision.

But only he knew his true intentions.

Now, this stern-faced man was explaining the final rules.

“This Yanxing Great Forest is eight times the size of Yanlie City, divided into an outer and central area.”

“You are only allowed in the outer area. There’s a clearly marked barrier between the two.”

“In the outer area, besides collecting number cards, you can also search for treasures. You have twelve hours, and anything you find during this period belongs to you. The Heartflame Empire won’t claim any of it.”

Hearing this, everyone was excited.

Even if they lost their number cards, they could still earn some travel expenses. What a great perk!

Then, someone asked, “What about… the central area?”

“The central area?” Shangguan Yaochang sneered. “If you can break through the Earth-grade barrier and enter the central area, I won’t stop you.”

“However, if you wish to withdraw from the competition in the outer area, crush the crystal I’ll give you, and you’ll be protected until someone escorts you out.”

“But in the central area, you’re on your own.”

18. The Most Familiar Stranger

“If there’s a good opportunity, why not seize it?” Gong Yiling puffed out her chest, striking a confident pose. “This young lady is still under thirty, young and full of energy. I have to give it a try.”

She even wanted to add,

*Agent sister, why aren’t you joining? Are you not interested in such trivial matters?*

Of course, such a self-exposing remark could only remain a thought.

Yan Chuyue, amused by her enthusiasm, chuckled. “What if you run into Qiu Shui or Xinyao in the next round? What will you do?”

“I’ll beat them until their butts bloom.”

“Huh?”

“—That’s impossible!” Gong Yiling scratched her head, laughing. “I wouldn’t steal their spotlight. I’ll just throw the match.”

Of course, countless people passed the preliminaries in Yanlie City. Even in the official first round, which was also an arena battle, Gong Yiling didn’t think she would be so unlucky as to face her disciples directly.

After the list of finalists was announced, the palace posted the format for the official first round.

—It wouldn’t be an arena battle anymore.

The first round included finalists from all regions, totaling over three hundred participants.

Having so many people fight in the arena, especially since their average strength was much higher than the preliminary round, would take days. And that wasn’t Emperor Shangguan Long’s intention. He preferred methods that could quickly identify both talented individuals and those with ulterior motives.

After all, he wasn’t interested in the fights themselves; he had other goals.

Therefore…

The format for the first round surprised many.

It was a team competition.

And not just any team competition.

The rules were simple.

Each participant would receive a random number card with a single digit from 0 to 9.

They were allowed to steal each other’s cards, and those who lost their cards wouldn’t be eliminated, but could continue to roam the arena, trying to steal others’ cards or reclaim their own.

The final score would be the average value of the number cards held by a team.

Teams had to consist of two to four members. A solo participant, even with a high score, couldn’t advance.

Yes, these rules were harsh, a “blessing” for introverts and those with social anxiety.

And that wasn’t all.

To prevent someone from hoarding all the number 9 cards, two additional rules were added.

First, each person could hold a maximum of three cards, and the total value of their cards couldn’t exceed fifteen. If two teams had the same average score, the team with the higher total score would win.

Second, if the members of a qualifying team all had the same total score, they could request “score consumption” from the judges without their teammates’ consent.

Upon requesting score consumption, the other team members would be automatically disqualified, and the individual’s score could exceed fifteen, becoming the sum of their original score and the consumed scores.

This meant teammates could betray each other.

Unless they completely trusted each other.

—And how many such teams existed?

As the saying goes, great rewards attract brave warriors. And with this rule allowing for the targeted elimination of teammates…

Even close friends might not be able to maintain absolute trust. The more familiar they were, the higher the chance of betrayal.

This was Emperor Shangguan Long’s intention.

To accelerate the competition and force those with ulterior motives to act, making it easier to identify them.

This unprecedented format caught many off guard.

Some had hoped to rely on luck, but now, even if they were lucky enough to get a number 9 card, they might not be able to keep it.

In this ruthless competition, strength and cunning were paramount.

The competition began the next day. After a brief period of commotion, the participants started forming teams.

Finding a single teammate wasn’t difficult.

As for betrayal, as long as you were willing to betray your teammate, you didn’t have to worry about them betraying you.

Mutually assured destruction.

Those in the spotlight quickly formed teams.

For example, the First Prince partnered not with his subordinates, but with the stronger Young Master Xuli—who knew why he was even participating.

And those who performed exceptionally well in the preliminaries, like Qiu Shui and Lu Xinyao, naturally teamed up.

Their partnership was likely one of the few where betrayal was unlikely.

As for Miss Gong, after rejecting several seemingly treacherous individuals, she found herself without a teammate.

This wasn’t surprising.

Although she performed well in the Yanlie City preliminaries, only those who witnessed her matches knew about it.

Over seventy percent of the participants here were strangers from other cities. To them, she was just a nobody who probably got lucky in the preliminaries.

No one would want to team up with her, except for those seeking easy points.

Of course, Miss Gong wasn’t worried.

She approached Yin Qiushui and Lu Xinyao, posing as a stranger.

“You two seem to be close friends, right?”

Qiu Shui shielded Lu Xinyao protectively, frowning at this stranger. “Who are you?”

“It doesn’t matter who I am.” Gong Yiling, pleased with Qiu Shui’s reaction, smiled. “I have a suggestion. Would you like to hear it?”

“What suggestion?”

“Simple. In this format, many will try to betray or buy points from their teammates. Even if your average score reaches 15, it might not be enough to guarantee advancement.”

“But with me, considering the total score rule for tiebreakers, our total score could reach 45, guaranteeing our advancement. What do you think?”