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Chapter 31 p2

The Heavenly Emperor shook his head. “I don’t know.” He had initially thought it was because of some major event, but there hadn’t been any significant changes in the Heavenly Mechanism. “The Celestial Mother and I are one, both manifestations of the Mandate of Heaven. She will be in charge of the Celestial Feather Ministry, the Four Seas Ministry, and the White Tiger Ministry. As for Danxue Mountain… be careful.”

Chang Li lowered her eyelids. “Thinking about it, Minister Feng’s actions might not be a bad thing. It might even motivate our lineages in Danxue Mountain to improve.”

That was exactly what the Heavenly Emperor wanted to hear. He smiled. “I’m glad you understand.” Although he had relinquished control of the feathered race, he didn’t want them to completely side with the Celestial Mother. As for the Four Seas Ministry and the White Tiger Ministry, he didn’t care much. Most of their members were wandering immortals who had little to do with the Heavenly Court, maintaining only a nominal relationship.

After leaving the Purple Empyrean Palace, Chang Li went to Danxue Mountain.

The place was filled with complaints and curses directed at Feng Chiyue and the Celestial Feather Ministry. Their resentment was even stronger than it had been a thousand years ago.

When she met with the elders, before she could even speak, they started clamoring, demanding that they get rid of Feng Chiyue. The Celestial Feather Ministry had been established for a thousand years. How could the rules be changed so easily? Why should they be changed? Chang Li listened to them with a cold expression, then said calmly, “The Celestial Feather Ministry is now under the Celestial Mother’s control. Whether you like it or not, it’s going to change. Instead of complaining, you should follow the announcement from the Celestial Feather Ministry.”

“The assessment is fair. Think about it. Feng Chiyue hasn’t favored any particular side, has she?”

It was true, but they had always been able to take what they wanted before. Now, with this new restriction, they no longer had the freedom to do as they pleased. How could they accept that?

“Didn’t you agree with us before, Fellow Daoist Nan Li, that we should drive Feng Chiyue out of the Celestial Feather Ministry? Why have you changed your mind?” the Swan Goose elder asked suddenly, his cold gaze fixed on Chang Li, as if looking at a traitor.

Chang Li ignored his icy tone. “Because it’s impossible,” she said calmly. Even when Ming Jian Su was gone and the Celestial Mother was in seclusion, they hadn’t been able to deal with Feng Chiyue. What made them think they could do it now? The Celestial Pivot Department had stopped investigating the deaths of Bi Feng and the others, but they should all know who was responsible. Whether they acted openly or secretly, they would only suffer losses. Why cling to their previous plan?

“The content of the previous assessment was mostly based on the history of the feathered race. It’s our history. Studying it wouldn’t hurt,” Chang Li said. She lowered her eyelids, recalling the past. Back then, the Phoenix Sovereign had always been engrossed in books and had held their lineage leaders and elders to strict standards. They had discussed the future of the feathered race together, but it had all come to an abrupt end a thousand years ago.

The assessment questions weren’t difficult, but very few, from both Danxue Mountain and Phoenix Mountain, could answer them. When had it started? They had even forgotten their own history. Her gaze fell upon the magnificent murals—within the lines and colors, if one looked closely, they could still find traces of the past. Back then, they hadn’t just depicted the history of the Vermilion Birds, Swan Geese, and Bifangs. They had depicted the rise of the feathered race, led by the Five Phoenixes and Three Feathers. But after the flames of calamity, everything had vanished. They had started to fear and loathe their own history.

“It’s all in the past. What’s the point of studying it? To make us, the traitors, reminisce about the Phoenix Sovereign?” the Bifang elder complained. As soon as he finished speaking, a chilling gaze pierced him like a sword. He felt as if he had been struck by a wave, his head spinning. His face paled, sweat beading on his forehead, his body trembling uncontrollably. Even after the oppressive aura subsided, he remained fearful, not daring to look up at Chang Li.

“If you’re unwilling to learn, there are plenty of others who are. For example, the Phoenixes, who have always been suppressed. Do you think they’ll miss this opportunity?” Chang Li said coldly.

She didn’t look at the other lineage leaders again, transforming into a streak of crimson fire and leaving Danxue Mountain without a trace of nostalgia. Just like the past that had been so easily discarded, once she had decided to let go, there was no need to look back.

—

In Dong’e Mountain.

Ming Jian Su received the Celestial Mother’s decree from the Heavenly Court. She was surprised, but then she dismissed it. With or without the decree, she would have supported Feng Chiyue. The decree simply made everything official. She stood up and walked to the window, hearing the clear, melodious sound of silver bells.

Feng Chiyue was sitting on the swing set under the peach tree, playing with the birds. She tossed small pieces of spiritual fruit onto the ground, and when the birds gathered around, she shook the bells, startling them and sending them scattering. But after several repetitions, the birds were no longer afraid. They flew back, chirping as they pecked at the fruit. Some even landed on Feng Chiyue’s shoulders, allowing her to stroke their plump, fluffy bellies.

Why were these birds so carefree? Ming Jian Su felt a pang of jealousy and discreetly released a bit of her sword intent, scaring the birds away. Seeing this, she smiled happily.

“Elder Sister?” Feng Chiyue knew it was Ming Jian Su’s doing. She jumped off the swing and went to the window, looking at Ming Jian Su through the glass.

Under Feng Chiyue’s gaze, Ming Jian Su suddenly felt a blush creep up her cheeks. “I–”

“You what?” Feng Chiyue asked, blinking.

Seeing a bird peeking its head out from behind a branch, an idea struck Ming Jian Su. “I haven’t seen your true form yet,” she blurted out.

“You want to see it?” Feng Chiyue asked, smiling.

Ming Jian Su nodded. Wasn’t it obvious? She also wanted to get some phoenix feathers.

“Oh,” Feng Chiyue said, raising an eyebrow. “Then keep dreaming.” Although she was a Phoenix, for some reason, she didn’t like her true form. She preferred to remain in human form. She didn’t say anything else to Ming Jian Su, turning and walking away. She sat on the swing and pushed off with her toes, soaring through the air. The wind billowed her vibrant red robes, making her look like a blazing sun. A faint melody drifted through the air. Ming Jian Su couldn’t hear the lyrics clearly, but the scattered birds flew back, forming a flock that danced gracefully in the sky, following the rhythm of the song.

Ming Jian Su watched the “All Birds Pay Homage to the Phoenix” dance with a gentle smile. After a long while, she remembered something important. She took out the Chaos Mirror, found Feng Yao’s name seal, and asked her a question.

“Do you keep records of all Nirvanas in your clan?”

In Phoenix Mountain, the reforms in the Celestial Feather Ministry were causing a stir. Feng Yao was debating whether to contact Feng Chiyue when she received Ming Jian Su’s message.

“Yes,” she replied cautiously.

“Do all Phoenixes undergo Nirvana under the care of their clan?” Ming Jian Su asked.

“Yes,” Feng Yao replied. There weren’t many in their clan who had achieved Nirvana. Seeing that there was no response for a while, she asked, “What’s wrong? Is Feng Chiyue about to undergo Nirvana? If so, please send her back to Phoenix Mountain.”

Ming Jian Su’s reply was quick this time. “No, she’s not.” Her junior sister had already undergone Nirvana once. She didn’t even know how old she was. Living in isolation, trapped in the Abyss of the Milky Way… it didn’t seem like she had a good relationship with the Phoenixes. Or perhaps, as she suspected, her junior sister was that person. But what had happened? Ming Jian Su frowned, pondering.

She took out the Celestial Feather Career Book and looked up the information about the Phoenix lineage. The Phoenix Sovereign’s name wasn’t there, as if it had been erased. However, there was a record of her junior sister. She stared at the three lonely characters “Feng Chiyue,” not listed under any lineage, as if she had appeared out of thin air. It was suspicious.

She didn’t know when the singing had stopped. Only the chirping of the birds filled the air. Ming Jian Su put away the Chaos Mirror and looked at Feng Chiyue on the swing, her gaze filled with tenderness. She thought to herself, no matter who she was before her Nirvana, her junior sister was hers now. No one could take her away!

In Phoenix Mountain.

Feng Yao was puzzled by Ming Jian Su’s two consecutive rejections. She took the Chaos Mirror and went to see the elders. Earlier, officials from the Celestial Pivot Department had come to ask about the deaths of Bi Feng and the others, saying that Danxue Mountain suspected they were involved. They hadn’t done it, of course. As for Feng Chiyue… they had initially thought it was impossible, but Ming Jian Su had returned at that time. Perhaps she had helped eliminate the witnesses? But Ming Jian Su was usually quite restrained.

There was only one possibility that could have driven her to such an extreme: Feng Chiyue was seriously injured! Feng Chiyue hadn’t gone to the Celestial Feather Ministry these past few days, and there were rumors on the Chaos Mirror that Ming Jian Su had resigned from many of her positions and was staying in Dong’e Mountain. Was she accompanying Feng Chiyue in her final moments? The more Feng Yao thought about it, the more likely it seemed.

“Why do you think she’s about to undergo Nirvana?” the Phoenix elder asked, not bothering to look at her.

Feng Yao: “…” Good question, but that was what her intuition told her. Feng Chiyue, the lazy good-for-nothing? No, there was definitely something wrong with her!

“These are the records of the feathered race preserved in our clan. Take a look,” the Phoenix elder said, taking out several jade slips and handing them to her.

Feng Yao wanted to turn and leave, but her feet felt rooted to the spot. She accepted the jade slips respectfully and then said, “Are the assessment questions based on the books in the Wen Qu Treasure Pavilion of the Heavenly Prosperity Department? They’ve revised the historical records many times.” Especially the “Fall of the Phoenix” pact a thousand years ago. However, she didn’t mention those provocative words in front of the elder.

Chapter 31 p1

Seeing Feng Chiyue’s expression, Ming Jian Su knew what she was thinking. Besides, she also didn’t want to look at those annoying documents anymore. So she indulged Feng Chiyue and lay down on the bed with her.

Feng Chiyue held Ming Jian Su tightly, feeling a sense of peace settle over her. Her frustrations and anxieties vanished. Ming Jian Su was her cure.

Ming Jian Su’s heart was also at ease. Although she hadn’t been burdened by paperwork in Asura City, she had still felt restless, as if something was missing. As expected, only in Feng Chiyue’s presence could she truly find peace. Well, she could only accept her fate as a workhorse.

“When Undefeated came back, I asked it to transform into your likeness, but it couldn’t do it. How about this, Elder Sister? Can you refine a puppet that looks exactly like you and leave it with me?” Feng Chiyue’s eyes lit up as a brilliant idea struck her. Ming Jian Su was so busy. She didn’t know what to do with herself.

Ming Jian Su stiffened. Whose fault was it that she was so busy? Her amusement vanished, replaced by anger. “Why don’t you ask Chang Huai to refine it?” she asked, her face flushed.

“I want the best, and it has to be made by you, Elder Sister,” Feng Chiyue said matter-of-factly. She nudged Ming Jian Su and snorted. “It’s your fault for not wanting to use an avatar.”

Ming Jian Su: “…” Was she blaming her now? Her avatar was connected to her true body. If she was with Feng Chiyue, how could she possibly get any work done?! “Absolutely not,” she said firmly, her face serious, determined to crush Feng Chiyue’s ridiculous idea.

Although Feng Chiyue was slightly disappointed, she usually listened to Ming Jian Su in these matters. Seeing that it wouldn’t work, she abandoned the idea. It wasn’t that she liked those stupid puppet humans. It was just that her Elder Sister tended to run away when she was angry. In the past, she would hide in some cave in Dong’e Mountain, but now, she had escalated to fleeing to the battlefield between the Immortal and Demon Realms. Would she cross the Demon Abyss and enter the territory of the demons in the future? The thought filled her with anxiety. She glanced at Ming Jian Su, who had closed her eyes, and called out softly, “Elder Sister.”

Ming Jian Su was still angry and ignored her.

Feng Chiyue frowned. If Ming Jian Su wouldn’t talk, she had other methods. Her hand, resting on Ming Jian Su’s waist, slipped into her robe. When Ming Jian Su’s eyes flew open, Feng Chiyue stopped, a bright smile blooming on her face. “Can you promise me something?” she asked.

Ming Jian Su glared at her, pulling her hand out of her robe and intertwining their fingers. She snorted. “Tell me what it is first.”

“Don’t throw tantrums,” Feng Chiyue said seriously.

Ming Jian Su: “…” Did she throw tantrums? Where had she thrown tantrums? She was always kind and gentle, wasn’t she? She wanted to push Feng Chiyue away, but as her fingers brushed against her skin, she couldn’t bring herself to do it. Instead, she pulled Feng Chiyue closer, holding her tightly. She nibbled Feng Chiyue’s cheek playfully and remained silent.

Feng Chiyue’s eyes sparkled. She took Ming Jian Su’s action as an invitation, but she remembered that she hadn’t finished her important request. “Wait a moment, Elder Sister,” she said softly, then continued, “That includes, but is not limited to, ignoring me, entering seclusion for long periods of time, staying out all night, and running away.” The more she spoke, the more annoyed Ming Jian Su became. Did she have that many bad habits? Thinking about it, she had actually done all of those things, although never for long. But even if she had, why did Feng Chiyue remember them so clearly? And why did she have to list them out one by one?! Ming Jian Su didn’t want to hear it anymore. She leaned forward and silenced Feng Chiyue with a kiss.

Feng Chiyue moaned softly, her mind focused on taking control. Her lengthy complaints vanished into thin air.

—

Although they now had the Celestial Feather Career Book, it was just a list of names, useful for filling in gaps and correcting errors. It saved them the trouble of investigating, but Ming Jian Su still had to handle some matters personally.

When the sun rose high in the sky, Ming Jian Su used Feng Chiyue’s Chaos Mirror to issue an announcement, requiring the elders of all lineages to compile a list of their wandering immortals, candidates for selection, and officials with formal positions, including their addresses and duties, and submit it within a specified time frame. Those who didn’t register would be considered to have abandoned their positions in the Heavenly Court and would automatically revert to being candidates for selection. Their salaries and benefits would be suspended.

This change affected not only the Celestial Feather Hall, but also the Merit Assessment Hall and the Treasury Hall. The Merit Assessment Hall was responsible for recording the achievements of officials and managing the selection and promotion process, but it had become practically useless due to the chaos in the Celestial Feather Ministry. The Treasury Hall handled the monthly salaries.

In the Heavenly Court, the salaries of all feathered immortals were calculated by the Treasury Hall, and then they would take their vouchers to the Heavenly Prosperity Palace in the Heavenly Prosperity Department to collect their payments. The Treasury Hall was also a mess. Those who had controlled the Celestial Feather Ministry in the past had issued vouchers indiscriminately. Even wandering immortals who were close to them could receive a salary.

On the Chaos Mirror.

The human immortals were watching the drama unfold, while the feathered immortals were complaining. First, they found it troublesome. Second, it affected their own interests. Regardless of whether they were losing anything, most feathered immortals were opposed to “reform.”

— What is the Heavenly Court doing? Are they just going to let Feng Chiyue run wild? She’s just a savage Phoenix. What does she know?

— What about the Heavenly Mechanism Department? What about Si Lu Star Monarch? Someone needs to control Feng Chiyue!

— Rumor has it that dozens of immortals from Danxue Mountain have disappeared. They might have been killed.

— I want to apply for reincarnation. I don’t want to be a bird in my next life.

Such drastic changes shocked not only the feathered immortals, but also Que Chen Yi, who was already working tirelessly for the Celestial Feather Ministry. How could they verify the accuracy of the reported numbers? Even if they wanted to investigate, they needed enough manpower. Even with the East Abode Master’s help, they couldn’t possibly handle everything within three days.

Que Chen Yi regretted her impulsive decision to participate in the selection process for the Celestial Feather Ministry eleven thousand times. She could only draw strength from her meager salary, which barely supported her family of dozens. Although she was afraid of seeing Feng Chiyue, she still forced her exhausted body to go to Dong’e Mountain and inquire about the situation.

The East Abode Master was diligently writing at her desk.

The Minister was arguing with other feathered immortals on the Chaos Mirror.

After voicing her concerns, Que Chen Yi lowered her head, anxiously awaiting an answer.

“Don’t worry. I have everything under control,” Ming Jian Su said calmly.

Que Chen Yi nodded absentmindedly, instinctively replying, “The Minister has–” Wait, it wasn’t the Minister who had just spoken. She looked up abruptly. Feng Chiyue didn’t even glance at her. It was the East Abode Master who had spoken, her expression composed, the Minister’s seal resting beside her hand. So this “reform” had nothing to do with the Minister. It was the East Abode Master’s idea?

Had she unwittingly become involved in a major conspiracy? Should she resign and return to her village to farm?

As she left the hall, Que Chen Yi was still distracted, almost bumping into Zhu Wan, who was feeding the birds outside.

“Sorry,” she apologized repeatedly, her head lowered.

Zhu Wan didn’t mind. “It’s alright,” she said. Looking at the exhausted and pitiful Que Chen Yi, she couldn’t help but feel some sympathy. She took out a spiritual fruit and offered it to her. “It’ll be alright,” she said, comforting her. Once you get used to it, nothing can break you.

“Thank you,” Que Chen Yi replied, instinctively drawn to the fruit. She didn’t even look closely at its variety and took a bite. It wasn’t crisp and juicy. Instead, it transformed into pure energy that flowed into her body, cleansing her bloodline. She vaguely heard a high-pitched phoenix cry.

Her previously muddled thoughts cleared instantly! She remembered the fruit’s appearance and instinctively looked back—under the peach tree, Zhu Wan was feeding several plump birds.

That fruit… a Heavenly Phoenix fruit!

It was an almost extinct spiritual fruit, considered sacred to the feathered race. Eating it could enhance their bloodline power and even allow them to transform into a Phoenix! It had once been abundant in Danxue Mountain, but now it was extremely rare. Dong’e Mountain was actually using it to feed those plump birds?! Que Chen Yi wanted to rush over and snatch them all, but she remembered her status and suppressed her envy, dragging her heavy legs away from Dong’e Mountain.

Wasn’t it just work? She could do it! She would definitely not resign!

In the Purple Empyrean Palace of the Heavenly Court.

The immortal officials were also discussing the drastic reforms in the Celestial Feather Ministry. Si Lu Star Monarch’s expression was grim. His colleagues who opposed the reforms glared at him, their gazes like daggers, as it was he who had transferred Feng Chiyue to the Celestial Feather Ministry.

He felt wronged. Who could have predicted that Feng Chiyue would do such things? And now, the East Abode Master was back, the Celestial Mother had left seclusion and declared her support for Feng Chiyue in front of everyone. He couldn’t even get rid of Feng Chiyue now if he wanted to.

“Heavenly Emperor?” the officials asked, waiting for the Heavenly Emperor to speak.

The Heavenly Emperor’s expression was also unpleasant. Knowing that the Great Yin Celestial Mother wouldn’t return to seclusion, he couldn’t bring himself to smile. “The Celestial Feather Ministry will proceed with its reforms. It will not interfere with the main office of the Heavenly Mechanism Department,” he said, his voice heavy.

He had divided the power with the Celestial Mother, securing control of the Heavenly Mechanism Department and keeping the human race under his rule. As for the feathered race… they had been severely weakened by the calamity a thousand years ago. Cutting them off would have the least impact on him. Besides, with the way the Celestial Feather Ministry was reforming, Danxue Mountain wasn’t completely out of the picture. They had even gained an advantage due to their past accumulation and still had a chance to regain control of the ministry.

The Great Yin Celestial Mother ignored the opposition. She stood up, her cold gaze sweeping across the officials. “Issue my decree: The East Abode Master will assist Minister Feng in reforming the Celestial Feather Ministry.”

The officials’ expressions turned serious. They exchanged glances, but no one dared to speak. She was using the East Abode Master’s power to forcefully push through the reforms. She hadn’t mentioned any changes for the human race. Perhaps it was just an internal matter for the feathered race? Even Chang Li, from the Vermilion Bird lineage, hadn’t objected. Why should they risk their necks?

Chang Li indeed hadn’t spoken during the court meeting. It wasn’t until the officials had dispersed that she went to see the Heavenly Emperor alone.

The Heavenly Emperor sighed heavily. “The Celestial Mother holds a grudge because of the Fall of the Phoenix pact a thousand years ago. She intends to favor Phoenix Mountain, and I can’t stop her.” He paused, then added, “But she’s not being unreasonable. She just wants fairness. She won’t hold Danxue Mountain accountable for their past actions.”

Chang Li knew he was just trying to shirk responsibility. She smiled faintly. “Accountable? What did Danxue Mountain do wrong? We acted to end the war between the Immortal and Demon Realms. If the Demon Sovereign demanded me as a captive, I would willingly surrender.”

“You’re right,” the Heavenly Emperor said, agreeing with her. Some wandering immortals who knew the truth still blamed him, but what had he done wrong? Hadn’t he acted for the sake of peace between the two realms? Sacrificing the Phoenix Sovereign was a sacrifice. Weren’t the sacrifices of other soldiers also sacrifices? Why didn’t anyone speak up for them? After a thousand years of justifying his actions, the Heavenly Emperor had forgotten the true cause of the war.

“Why has the Celestial Mother left seclusion?” Chang Li asked.

Chapter 30 p2

Because of this, the Celestial Mother and the Heavenly Emperor had a heated argument, even resorting to violence, but that wasn’t something she could reveal to outsiders.

Ying Cunxin added, “With the Celestial Mother’s approval, the Four Seas Ministry has a reason to persist, regardless of what the Heavenly Mechanism Department decides.” They also had to weigh the pros and cons. It seemed that Feng Chiyue was the one with true courage. Despite having nothing, she had forcefully pushed for change in the Celestial Feather Ministry. She looked at Feng Chiyue, who was lounging lazily, and asked, “Do you have any suggestions, Minister Feng?”

Silence fell over the hall.

Feng Chiyue looked up at Ying Cunxin, a smile blooming on her face, as radiant as spring flowers.

“As long as those who oppose can’t speak, everything will be easy.”

A face that could outshine the heavens, a voice laced with chilling intent, like frost falling from plum blossoms in the winter wind.

Ming Jian Su, sitting beside her, showed no intention of objecting.

She clearly agreed.

“Thank you for the advice,” Ying Cunxin said sincerely. Then, she added, “I wonder what the White Tiger Ministry thinks.” The White Tiger Ministry was in charge of the beasts of the Heavenly Court.

They were named after the “White Tiger” and followed the lead of Bai Guchan, the West River Lord. Bai Guchan was a white tiger who had attained enlightenment. It was said that she had been converted to Buddhism by a wandering immortal from Mount Sumeru and only followed Buddhist principles, ignoring worldly affairs. If the White Tiger Ministry also implemented the assessment system, then only the human officials would be left using the old, unfair system. Over time, some officials would surely become dissatisfied and push for change from the bottom up.

After discussing the assessment system, Ying Cunxin noticed Feng Chiyue’s impatience and excused herself.

Chu Yi was reluctant to leave. She hadn’t achieved either of her goals. However, Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue’s eagerness to see her go made it impossible for her to stay. As she left Dong’e Mountain, she glared at Ying Cunxin. If Ying Cunxin hadn’t come today, she might have achieved her goals! How could she get back at this annoying dragon princess? Drag her into the Ethereal Spirit Realm and beat her up?

“Why didn’t you eat the fruit I peeled for you, Your Highness?” Ying Cunxin asked slowly, interrupting Chu Yi’s thoughts. “Are you afraid I poisoned it?”

What a ridiculous question! Chu Yi was about to retort sarcastically, but then she caught sight of Ying Cunxin’s ethereal beauty and swallowed her words. However, her expression remained cold. “I don’t like fruit,” she said stiffly.

Ying Cunxin smiled faintly. “I’ll remember that,” she said, her voice unhurried.

Chu Yi was baffled. Remember what? Why? She was frustrated and eager to find someone to fight, so she ignored Ying Cunxin, transforming into a bright sword light that pierced through the swirling clouds, vanishing in the blink of an eye.

Ying Cunxin looked up at the fading sword trail, her smile widening.

Although the Emperor’s Daughter had a bad temper, she was strong and ambitious, even earning praise from the East Abode Master. Where else in the four seas could she find someone like her?

—

In Dong’e Mountain.

Feng Chiyue was also unhappy. She turned to Ming Jian Su, her face sullen.

“Are those old geezers from Danxue Mountain looking for trouble?”

She admitted that she had deliberately caused chaos in the Celestial Feather Ministry. She had been in a bad mood and didn’t want anyone else to be happy. But now, she couldn’t even be bothered to think about the assessment system, yet Danxue Mountain had submitted a petition to the Heavenly Court, claiming it was beneficial to the Immortal Realm and should be implemented everywhere.

Fine, let them implement it. It had nothing to do with her. But Ying Cunxin had come today representing the Four Seas Ministry. Would others also use this as an excuse to disrupt her peaceful life?

“They have ulterior motives,” Ming Jian Su said, her eyes hardening, her sword intent surging.

Danxue Mountain was trying to use others to deal with her junior sister! They had already taken so much. Couldn’t they tolerate a single Phoenix? “Although we’ve conducted an assessment once, there’s no established system yet. It’s not ideal. Junior Sister, you–” Before she could finish, Feng Chiyue placed a finger on her lips.

“I don’t want to hear it,” Feng Chiyue said, her voice dejected.

Ming Jian Su couldn’t stand seeing her junior sister so dispirited. She had resigned from many of her positions and had plenty of time to help her manage the Celestial Feather Ministry. After a moment of thought, she said, “Junior Sister, I’ll establish the rules and regulations for you. You can just post them on the Chaos Mirror.”

Feng Chiyue looked at her skeptically. “Really?” She knew that Ming Jian Su had secretly complained about her being troublesome!

“Of course, when have I ever–” The words “lied to you” reached her lips, but she swallowed them back. She couldn’t give Feng Chiyue any ammunition. She composed herself and said, “Just trust me, Junior Sister.”

“Alright,” Feng Chiyue agreed readily. She handed the Chaos Mirror and the Celestial Feather Minister’s seal to Ming Jian Su. “Elder Sister, you’re capable of anything. No one can compare to you. I’ll go refine some tonifying elixirs for you!”

Ming Jian Su: “…” She was truly suffering.

Before ascending, Ming Jian Su had already reached the position of sect leader. She was skilled at managing the affairs of a large sect. After agreeing to help Feng Chiyue with the Celestial Feather Ministry, she immediately got to work.

Like most departments in the Heavenly Court, the Celestial Feather Ministry was a mess. In theory, it managed the registry of all feathered immortals, but in reality, only the candidates for selection had complete records. Those who chose to be wandering immortals weren’t registered, and those who found their own masters or were taken in by elders or companions often had incomplete information.

Ming Jian Su couldn’t stand it. She worked day and night, organizing the documents, but Feng Chiyue was unhappy. She had thought that listening to Understanding would be enough to help her sleep, but in the middle of the night, she was still wide awake.

She wanted to hold Ming Jian Su.

“Elder Sister,” she called out towards the screen.

Ming Jian Su was frustrated. She took a deep breath, put down her brush, and went to Feng Chiyue.

Feng Chiyue sat up, pulled Ming Jian Su into her arms, and sighed contentedly. Her affection dispelled the gloom that had settled over Ming Jian Su. She stroked Feng Chiyue’s cheek and asked softly, “What’s wrong?”

“Understanding isn’t enough. I want you to stay with me,” Feng Chiyue mumbled.

“Wait a little longer,” Ming Jian Su said.

“No,” Feng Chiyue shook her head, refusing to let go.

“I’m almost done,” Ming Jian Su said.

Feng Chiyue bit her lip, hesitated for a moment, then, as if making a decision, asked, “What’s wrong?”

Ming Jian Su looked at her in surprise. Those weren’t words her junior sister would normally say. Was she concerned about her? No, it was best not to expect too much. What if her next words were a bucket of cold water? As her mind raced with thoughts, she answered Feng Chiyue’s question. “The registry in the Celestial Feather Ministry is a bit messy. It’s taking some effort to organize.”

Feng Chiyue released Ming Jian Su and thought for a moment. “Is that so? Let me think of a solution.”

Ming Jian Su didn’t expect Feng Chiyue to actually use her brain, but compared to before, her junior sister had improved. She smiled and said, “Don’t worry. Take your time.”

Feng Chiyue glanced at her, thinking, how could she take her time? If she was busy, she wouldn’t have time to sleep with her! “I remember now! I have a treasure!” Feng Chiyue’s eyes lit up. She stood up, made a hand gesture, and a foot-long jade scroll appeared in her hand. She shoved it into Ming Jian Su’s arms.

“I also found this in the Abyss of the Milky Way. It’s called the ‘Celestial Feather Career Book.’ The names of all feathered immortals are recorded within!”

Ming Jian Su took the scroll and channeled her consciousness into it. Her expression changed drastically! The Celestial Feather Career Book truly contained the names of all feathered immortals from every lineage.

It was a Dao artifact formed by heaven and earth, similar to the Merit Mirror that recorded the deeds of all beings. How did Feng Chiyue possess such a thing? The Abyss of the Milky Way… what were her origins? Ming Jian Su’s eyelids twitched, a suspicion forming in her mind. A hint of worry flashed in her eyes.

She looked down at Feng Chiyue, who was smiling brightly, her lips moving, but in the end, she only said, “Don’t tell anyone else about the Career Book.”

“Don’t reveal your wealth, I know,” Feng Chiyue said, pleased with herself for solving a problem for Ming Jian Su.

“Elder Sister, keep it. It’s useless to me.” After a moment, she added, “Can you sleep with me now?” She had already made a big concession. If Ming Jian Su still wanted to work on the documents, she would be angry.

Chapter 30

What was so good about Chu Yi? Why should she praise her? If she had known that so much could happen in just one month, she would never have left the Immortal Realm. There had been no carefree revelry, only constant anxiety.

Ming Jian Su’s sudden outburst stunned Feng Chiyue. In the past, if Ming Jian Su had slammed the table like this, she would have thrown a tantrum. But she was in a good mood today, so she wouldn’t hold it against her.

She leaned closer to Ming Jian Su and said, “It won’t hurt to praise her a few times. After all, we know the truth.”

Seeing that Ming Jian Su remained silent, her face still cold, Feng Chiyue continued, “If you don’t want to, then I can only–”

“You’re not allowed to praise Chu Yi either!”

“Find an opportunity to kill her.”

Their voices rang out simultaneously.

Ming Jian Su: “…” She stared at Feng Chiyue, bewildered. “Kill? What kill?” she asked. Had she been too busy and was hallucinating?

“Who would praise her?” Feng Chiyue said, glancing at Ming Jian Su. She had no intention of hiding her plans. “Chu Yi keeps coming to see you. Don’t you find it annoying? I was thinking of a peaceful solution, but since you don’t agree, forget it. We can only find a way to eliminate her. After all, dead people are the quietest.”

Ming Jian Su hadn’t expected her junior sister to have such thoughts. She massaged her forehead, confused. “Was praising her the peaceful solution?”

“Yes, praise her in front of the East Sea Dragon Princess. The more extravagant the praise, the better,” Feng Chiyue said. Ming Jian Su was stunned. Feng Chiyue grew impatient. “You’re so stupid,” she muttered, then explained patiently, “Ying Cunxin admires strength. If she becomes infatuated with Chu Yi, then Chu Yi won’t have time to bother us. It’s killing two birds with one stone, preventing future trouble.”

“Killing two birds with one stone?” Ming Jian Su asked, her brow furrowed.

Feng Chiyue frowned and stood up, crossing her arms as she studied Ming Jian Su. “Is the feng shui on the battlefield between the Immortal and Demon Realms that bad?” she asked.

Ming Jian Su pursed her lips, pondering the words “admires strength.” Then, realization dawned on her. The East Sea Dragon Princess admired strength, and she was widely recognized as the strongest immortal. Her junior sister was afraid that Ying Cunxin would fall for her and refuse to leave Dong’e Mountain. One Phoenix was enough for Dong’e Mountain. They couldn’t accommodate a troublesome dragon.

Understanding Feng Chiyue’s good intentions, Ming Jian Su’s annoyance vanished, replaced by amusement. Looking at the pile of troublesome documents on the table, she felt a surge of energy. She was about to say something when the faint fragrance that always surrounded Feng Chiyue faded. She looked up and saw that Feng Chiyue had already returned to the couch, playing with the Chaos Mirror, her face carefree and radiant.

Ming Jian Su: “…” She was truly destined to be a workhorse.

Well, as long as her junior sister was happy.

—

A few days later.

Ying Cunxin arrived at Dong’e Mountain.

As she approached, she caught a glimpse of a familiar sword light. A name had just formed in her mind when Chu Yi, looking confident and radiant, emerged from the light. Her gaze was fixed ahead, as if nothing else existed besides Dong’e Mountain.

“Your Highness,” Ying Cunxin called out, not wanting to be ignored. She smiled faintly and approached gracefully, her steps as light as if she were walking on lotuses. Chu Yi turned and nodded coldly, wondering why Ying Cunxin was here. Was she going to be another spectator?

Chu Yi wasn’t interested in talking to Ying Cunxin. She had two goals in coming to Dong’e Mountain. The first, and most important, was to spar with Ming Jian Su. The second was to inquire about the Morning Sun Assembly incident. The Chaos Mirror was filled with rumors about her single-handedly annihilating them, but she knew it had nothing to do with her. However, no matter how she explained it, no one believed her.

The Heavenly Court even intended to use this incident as an example to intimidate wandering immortals. She had initially thought it was the work of some wandering immortal, but after learning of Ming Jian Su’s survival, she had discarded her previous theory.

The Morning Sun Assembly had tried to ambush Feng Chiyue, making them Ming Jian Su’s enemies. Countless immortals held grudges against the Morning Sun Assembly, but they all had their own considerations. Ming Jian Su, however, was different. Her sword intent was unwavering. She never hesitated.

There were no attendants in Dong’e Mountain. Apart from Zhu Wan, who rushed out to greet them, there was no one else. However, neither Chu Yi nor Ying Cunxin cared about formalities. They nodded to Zhu Wan and followed her to the main hall.

Peach blossoms danced in the wind. A few birds chirped on the swing set, undisturbed. As they passed by, Zhu Wan even instinctively took out a few spiritual fruits to feed them. She didn’t think much of it, but both Chu Yi and Ying Cunxin were surprised.

Those were “Heavenly Phoenix” fruits. They had once been abundant in Danxue Mountain, but after a great calamity, almost all of them had withered, becoming rare and precious. Dong’e Mountain was actually using them to feed Feng Chiyue’s pet birds? Chu Yi’s respect for Ming Jian Su reached new heights.

Inside the hall, two identical-looking attendants were arranging fruit platters. Chu Yi initially thought they were twins, but upon closer inspection, she didn’t sense any spiritual energy fluctuations from them. A question formed in her mind, but before she could ask, Ying Cunxin spoke. “Are they puppet humans?”

Zhu Wan clasped her hands and replied, “Yes.” When she had received the puppet humans from Chang Huai, she had thought Feng Chiyue was wasting Cinnabar Jade and treasures, believing they were useless.

But she soon realized that Chang Huai’s skills exceeded her understanding. Her hands now free, she had abandoned her previous shallow views and wholeheartedly embraced the convenience. “They’re amazing,” she said. Although activating the puppet humans required Cinnabar Jade, it was much more cost-effective than hiring attendants, and they never slacked off.

Zhu Wan had exchanged name seals with Chang Huai on the Chaos Mirror and knew that she was looking for ways to earn Cinnabar Jade. She was about to recommend some clients to her when the clear sound of bells approached. There was no need to guess. It was Feng Chiyue and her Elder Sister. As expected, a moment later, two figures, one red and one blue, appeared outside the hall.

They were walking side by side. Feng Chiyue wasn’t in her Elder Sister’s arms or on her back.

This realization relieved Zhu Wan. She had been afraid that their blatant intimacy would ruin Dong’e Mountain’s reputation in front of their rare guests.

Wait, why was Feng Chiyue here? She usually avoided guests. Could it be that something uncontrollable was about to happen?

Zhu Wan’s expression shifted rapidly. The three words “Feng Chiyue” were synonymous with “alarm” to her. She wasn’t a good-for-nothing. She was a disaster. Her Master was truly suffering.

As a storm brewed in Zhu Wan’s mind, Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue reached the bronze table and sat down, facing Chu Yi and Ying Cunxin.

Feng Chiyue rested her chin on one hand, her other hand hidden under the table, playing with Ming Jian Su’s fingers. She traced her fingers from tip to base, sometimes intertwining them, sometimes letting them slip through her fingers like fish.

Ming Jian Su glanced at her, but instead of stopping her, she only encouraged her.

Even without speaking, the atmosphere between them was inexplicably intimate and sensual, making Chu Yi, as an observer, feel a chill run down her spine. She remembered her purpose and asked Ming Jian Su, “East Abode Master, have you heard about the Morning Sun Assembly incident?”

Feng Chiyue gently pinched the webbing between Ming Jian Su’s thumb and index finger, her soft fingertips brushing against her skin like feathers, causing a slight itch. Ming Jian Su controlled her emotions and remembered Feng Chiyue’s instructions.

She nodded. “Yes, I have. The story of the Emperor’s Daughter single-handedly annihilating the Morning Sun Assembly has spread throughout the Immortal Realm,” she said. Before Chu Yi could speak, she smiled brightly and added sincerely, “Your Highness is wise and powerful, capable of turning the world upside down. You punished evil and upheld justice, ridding the world of the Morning Sun Assembly’s scourge. You’ve vented our anger for us.”

Chu Yi’s mind went blank upon hearing those words. Ming Jian Su’s “enthusiasm” filled her with a sense of foreboding. Before she could speak, Ying Cunxin, swirling her wine cup, added, “The Emperor’s Daughter is cautious, courteous, and humble. Why are you unwilling to acknowledge your own achievements?”

Chu Yi: “…” She had never imagined words like “courteous” and “humble” would be used to describe her. The deaths of the Morning Sun Assembly had nothing to do with her. Taking credit for it would be against her conscience. She stood for justice and righteousness and would never steal someone else’s achievements.

Ming Jian Su also echoed Ying Cunxin’s words. Their voices overlapped, drowning out Chu Yi’s, leaving her no chance to speak. Ying Cunxin’s smile widened as she listened to Ming Jian Su’s praise. Her gaze, lingering on Chu Yi, became increasingly heated.

It was Feng Chiyue’s idea, but after listening to Ming Jian Su praise Chu Yi for a full quarter of an hour, she felt a strange sense of displeasure. She released Ming Jian Su’s hand, snatched her wine cup, and took a sip, her face dark.

Ming Jian Su instantly sensed her resentment and stopped talking. She picked up a piece of fruit, peeled it carefully, and offered it to Feng Chiyue. She glanced at Ying Cunxin and asked, “Did your invitation mention the Four Seas Ministry, Fellow Daoist Ying?”

“Yes,” Ying Cunxin replied with a sweet smile. She also imitated Ming Jian Su, peeling a piece of fruit. However, her relationship with Chu Yi wasn’t close enough for her to feed it to her directly, so she placed the white fruit flesh on a porcelain plate and pushed it towards Chu Yi.

She didn’t pay attention to Chu Yi’s reaction and continued answering Ming Jian Su’s question. “The Celestial Feather Ministry has implemented an assessment system, and the Four Seas Ministry thinks it’s a good idea. We would like to consult with Minister Feng.”

Feng Chiyue’s frown deepened. She shouldn’t have come. What did assessments have to do with her?

Ming Jian Su tried to appease her with a look, then said, “The Four Seas Ministry? Or the East Sea? Or all four seas?” If she remembered correctly, the West Sea had offended her junior sister deeply. Didn’t they hold a grudge?

“It was the Four Seas Dragon Kings’ idea,” Ying Cunxin said. Although the plan to form a Four Seas Alliance through marriage had fallen through, their relationship hadn’t deteriorated too much. That fool Ao Chaofeng had called Feng Chiyue “vicious,” but the West Sea Dragon King had thrown him into the Cold Prison to cool his head. Now it seemed that Ao Chaofeng was truly useless.

Chu Yi ignored the plate of fruit that was slowly filling up and also spoke about the assessment system. “In the Purple Empyrean Palace, the Vermilion Birds, Swan Geese, and others also brought up the matter. They believe that the assessment is beneficial to the Immortal Realm, ensuring a fair and impartial selection process that truly reflects the abilities of immortals from all races. They suggest implementing it throughout the Immortal Realm.”

Not long ago, Danxue Mountain had vehemently opposed it, as the Celestial Feather Ministry had dismissed half of its officials and even publicly displayed the assessment questions on the Chaos Mirror, humiliating the feathered race.

Now they had suddenly changed their minds. Had they realized the benefits of the assessment? She doubted it. It was most likely a deliberate ploy, as they knew that the Heavenly Emperor and the Star Monarchs wouldn’t agree to it. If the assessment system was implemented throughout the Immortal Realm, it would become much harder for them to promote their descendants.

They wouldn’t target the Vermilion Birds who had made the suggestion in the Purple Empyrean Palace. Instead, they would use the Heavenly Emperor to pressure the original source – Feng Chiyue, the Celestial Feather Minister.

“There must be a lot of opposition,” Ming Jian Su said, understanding Chu Yi’s thoughts. Her dislike for Danxue Mountain intensified, and her face darkened.

“Yes,” Chu Yi replied, her face tense. She wanted to push for change in the Immortal Realm, but her words carried little weight. However, it didn’t mean it was impossible. “My mother agrees,” she said.

Chapter 29 p2

“Why would I rob anyone? The effort and reward wouldn’t be balanced,” Feng Chiyue snorted. “These are all mine,” she emphasized.

Ming Jian Su looked at her suspiciously. In the past two hundred years, she hadn’t received a single piece of Cinnabar Jade from Feng Chiyue… but the elixirs had been endless, much better than those from the Supreme Palace.

“I went to the Abyss of the Milky Way,” Feng Chiyue said casually.

Ming Jian Su was stunned. She immediately remembered that was where she had found Feng Chiyue. But back then, apart from the formation seal, she hadn’t seen any treasures. Had Feng Chiyue hidden them? For so many years, she had kept quiet about it? Ming Jian Su’s gaze became accusatory, and she couldn’t help but ask. She had been penniless when she ascended to the Immortal Realm, starting from the lowest position as an attendant. If she had had access to such wealth back then, she would have retired long ago! Would she have had to work like a dog for so many years?

“I was afraid you would cheat me out of my money and my body,” Feng Chiyue replied matter-of-factly.

Ming Jian Su: “…” She had begged her to be taken away from the Abyss of the Milky Way, and now she was accusing her of being a cheat! How wicked!

“These are all for you,” Feng Chiyue said.

The slight annoyance Ming Jian Su had felt vanished like a popped bubble. She hesitated for a moment, then firmly refused.

“Junior Sister, keep them for yourself.” She still held the position of East Abode Master and received a salary from the Heavenly Court. She could support herself. She wouldn’t be a freeloader! Her past ideals were no longer her present ideals.

“If you don’t want them, I’ll give them to someone else,” Feng Chiyue said.

“Someone else? Who?” Ming Jian Su’s alarm bells went off. She looked at Feng Chiyue, her expression serious.

Feng Chiyue took out the Chaos Mirror and tapped Zhu Wan’s name.

Seeing her actions, Ming Jian Su relaxed. There were no suspicious contacts on the Chaos Mirror. Good, no one had dared to approach her junior sister.

Zhu Wan lived nearby and arrived at the Dharma Hall within moments.

She was also shocked to see the Qiankun bags, thinking that Feng Chiyue and Ming Jian Su had raided someone’s treasury.

Feng Chiyue pointed at the bags. “Put these away,” she said.

Zhu Wan’s eyelids twitched uncontrollably. She had never seen such valuable treasures. She picked up the bags with trembling hands, as if handling priceless artifacts. Such trust warmed her heart, but the next moment, Feng Chiyue’s voice shattered.

— Elder Sister, do you want to get a new disciple? Someone more capable, less clumsy, and braver.

Zhu Wan left the Dharma Hall with the bags, her face expressionless, cursing Feng Chiyue silently.

Ming Jian Su didn’t consider Feng Chiyue’s suggestion to find another disciple. Her mind was still on the pile of treasures. It was impossible to accumulate such wealth overnight. She had found Feng Chiyue in the Abyss of the Milky Way.

Back then, according to Feng Chiyue, she had already been trapped for decades. The Abyss of the Milky Way was the purest place of spiritual energy in the Immortal Realm. Could treasures simply appear out of thin air? After a moment of thought, Ming Jian Su asked, “Where did you get these?”

Feng Chiyue raised an eyebrow. “I don’t know,” she said simply.

Ming Jian Su: “…” “Then how can you say they’re yours?”

Feng Chiyue frowned. “Aren’t the treasures I collected before my Nirvana mine?”

Ming Jian Su was stunned. “You’ve undergone Nirvana?” she asked, bewildered. Why hadn’t she noticed? And Feng Chiyue had never mentioned it before.

Feng Chiyue said casually, “I don’t remember much from before my Nirvana. It’s not important anyway.” She pulled Ming Jian Su down onto the couch, wrapped her arms around her, and said, “I probably died once because I ate something I shouldn’t have. There was a nameless poison in my body, a mixture of all sorts of substances. But the fire of Nirvana burned away most of it, leaving behind only a tiny trace that occasionally affects my thoughts and behavior. For example–”

“Open your Sea of Consciousness,” Ming Jian Su interrupted, her voice urgent.

Feng Chiyue’s fingers twitched, her gaze evasive. “Why are you in such a hurry?”

Ming Jian Su’s expression was serious. She ignored Feng Chiyue’s teasing. They had lived together for over two hundred years. She knew Feng Chiyue’s body like the back of her hand. But she had never found any traces of poison. They had dual cultivated, their consciousnesses intertwined, their souls completely exposed to each other. How could a poison hide so well? Could she have overlooked it in her moments of bliss? The thought filled her with guilt.

Although Ming Jian Su occasionally lied, Feng Chiyue still trusted her implicitly. Hearing her request, she lowered her mental defenses, allowing Ming Jian Su’s consciousness to enter her Sea of Consciousness. Unlike Feng Chiyue’s laziness and tranquility, Ming Jian Su was anxious, her mind focused on finding the poison, ignoring any thoughts of pleasure. After an unknown amount of time, she finally found a faint red mark in Feng Chiyue’s Sea of Consciousness—it was enveloped in a small ball of crimson fire and would eventually be burned away.

With a single touch, Ming Jian Su knew what the residual poison was—it was simply the accumulated toxins from all the random elixirs Feng Chiyue had consumed. High-quality elixirs were perfect and flawless, their energy harmonious, without any impurities. But ordinary elixirs contained residues that needed to be expelled through cultivation, known as “elixir toxins.”

Had Feng Chiyue truly eaten something she shouldn’t have before her Nirvana?

Ming Jian Su was about to withdraw from Feng Chiyue’s Sea of Consciousness when Feng Chiyue’s consciousness playfully wrapped around hers. The sensation of their consciousnesses intertwined was too pleasurable to resist, and Ming Jian Su didn’t want to resist.

A long time later, Ming Jian Su finally came back to her senses. She sat up, wiping the tears from the corners of her eyes, her gaze unfocused as she looked at Feng Chiyue, forgetting about the elixir toxins.

“It doesn’t matter anymore,” Feng Chiyue said suddenly. “I must not have had any family or friends before my Nirvana.” Her tone was certain, her expression as indifferent as if she were talking about someone else’s past. “If I did, how could I have undergone Nirvana in the Abyss of the Milky Way? How could no one have taken care of my possessions?”

Ming Jian Su stared at her, her mind blank. A multitude of emotions swelled within her, threatening to burst out of her chest. “I–”

“It’s a good thing I didn’t,” Feng Chiyue said, her tone turning cheerful. She pulled Ming Jian Su down and poked her flushed cheek. “Now it’s all ours!”

Ming Jian Su wasn’t as carefree as Feng Chiyue. The Phoenix lineage was very close-knit. It was rare to see a Phoenix who was estranged from their clan. Not all Phoenixes could undergo Nirvana, and those who could were all elites of the lineage. When the day of Nirvana arrived, they would surely be under the care of their clan. But her junior sister had severed ties with the Phoenix lineage both before and after her Nirvana. Should she find an opportunity to check the Phoenix clan’s registry and confirm her junior sister’s origins?

“Junior Sister, don’t you really want to know about your past?” she asked seriously.

Feng Chiyue’s hand had already slipped into Ming Jian Su’s robe, her fingers caressing her waist. Hearing Ming Jian Su’s question, she paused, then said, her voice laced with displeasure, “You, Ming Jian Su, are you planning to kick me out after taking my money?”

“Of course not,” Ming Jian Su said hastily. She thought for a moment. If someone claiming to be her junior sister’s family or friend appeared and tried to take her away, she would definitely kill them. “Junior Sister, will you leave me?” she asked, her voice serious as she leaned closer to Feng Chiyue.

Feng Chiyue pinched her waist. “You were the one who ran away.” How dare she blame her? As expected, wealth corrupted. It hadn’t even been a full night, and Ming Jian Su was already twisting the truth.

Ming Jian Su chuckled.

Good, she was still number one in her junior sister’s heart.

—

The next day.

Undefeated returned. Apart from a few beautiful feathers on its tip, it also carried an invitation from the East Sea.

“Those feathered immortals who were disobeying orders have come to their senses. They’re currently counting their members and will report to the Celestial Feather Hall before sunset,” Ming Jian Su said. She knew her junior sister wouldn’t bother reading the documents from the Celestial Feather Ministry, so she had taken over the responsibility. She had already decided to eliminate Danxue Mountain, so she had to secure the position of Celestial Feather Minister for her junior sister. That way, her actions would be justified.

“You’re quite skilled at handling these matters, Elder Sister,” Feng Chiyue said with a smile, picking up the last piece of fruit and offering it to Ming Jian Su, a rare display of attentiveness. Her Elder Sister had worked hard last night. She had to be considerate and be a good junior sister. Wanting to share Ming Jian Su’s burden, she picked up the invitation from the East Sea and scanned through it.

“I often handled sect affairs before I ascended, cleaning up those fools’ messes,” Ming Jian Su said, taking advantage of the moment her mouth was free. “Who is it from the East Sea?”

“Ying Cunxin,” Feng Chiyue said, frowning slightly. Some people on the Chaos Mirror had said that Ying Cunxin, the East Sea Dragon Princess, admired strength and beauty. She had even been willing to break off her engagement with the West Sea for the Emperor’s Daughter. But in terms of strength, Chu Yi couldn’t compare to her Elder Sister. And in terms of beauty, she was also far behind. Could it be that after learning of her Elder Sister’s return, Ying Cunxin had decided that Chu Yi’s appearance was too ordinary and had set her sights on her Elder Sister instead? An idea formed in her mind. “Elder Sister, has Chu Yi contacted you these past few days?” she asked.

“Yes,” Ming Jian Su replied, frowning.

“Then invite her here,” Feng Chiyue said.

Ming Jian Su put down her brush, her mind no longer on the documents. Alarm bells rang in her head. Why did her junior sister want to invite Chu Yi?

“I think the Emperor’s Daughter is quite impressive. She single-handedly annihilated the Morning Sun Assembly,” Feng Chiyue said.

Ming Jian Su: “…” Her junior sister was actually praising Chu Yi! What did that have to do with Chu Yi? She was the one who had done it! Those from the Morning Sun Assembly had bullied her junior sister and deserved to die! There were many praises on the Chaos Mirror. Could it be that her junior sister had actually believed them?

“Elder Sister, when Chu Yi arrives, praise her generously,” Feng Chiyue said.

Ming Jian Su’s temper flared. She slammed her hand on the table, her face dark. “No!”

Chapter 29 p1

While Ming Jian Su was away, Feng Chiyue had been too busy to pay attention to anyone else. Chu Yi wasn’t that important. Faced with Ming Jian Su’s question, she simply said, “I don’t know.” She didn’t let Ming Jian Su change the subject. She used the jade ruyi to tease the loose collar of her robe, glaring at her. “I’m asking you.”

The cool jade against her skin sent shivers down Ming Jian Su’s spine. She took the ruyi away and frowned. “I don’t know what she’s thinking either. The Emperor’s Daughter has always been unpredictable,” she said.

“Oh,” Feng Chiyue said, melting into Ming Jian Su’s arms. “Just ignore her,” she said lazily. Ming Jian Su naturally agreed, but a hint of doubt lingered in her mind. The Emperor’s Daughter often bullied her junior sister. She wasn’t a good person. Why had her attitude changed so drastically? Who was she really interested in?

“Why are you distracted?” Feng Chiyue asked, sensitive to Ming Jian Su’s subtle shift in mood. She nibbled Ming Jian Su’s collarbone, leaving a red mark on her creamy skin.

“I’m not,” Ming Jian Su denied, her gaze fixed on Feng Chiyue. The faint light from the treasures and candles in the hall, combined with the moonlight streaming through the window, illuminated Feng Chiyue’s face, making her beauty even more breathtaking. Ming Jian Su tucked a few strands of hair behind Feng Chiyue’s ear and asked, “Did you miss me while I was gone, Junior Sister?”

“No,” Feng Chiyue snorted. “I was busy. I didn’t have time to miss you.” After Ming Jian Su left, one problem after another had crashed down on her like relentless waves. She hadn’t thought much about it before, but now, prompted by Ming Jian Su’s question, her anger grew. If Ming Jian Su hadn’t left without a word, she wouldn’t have had to suffer so much! Her eyes quickly reddened, tears welling up. The tears she hadn’t shed upon hearing of Ming Jian Su’s “death” now flowed freely, her expression pitiful.

Seeing this, Ming Jian Su panicked, her heart melting. She wiped Feng Chiyue’s tears and said soothingly, “It was all my fault. I won’t do it again.”

“Liar. Everyone’s bullying me,” Feng Chiyue complained, hitting Ming Jian Su lightly. “It’s your fault.”

Ming Jian Su withdrew her hand, replacing it with a series of soft kisses on Feng Chiyue’s face. Feng Chiyue hummed softly, clutching Ming Jian Su’s robe, passively accepting her affection. Her emotions were as fleeting as the wind. Her grievances vanished after a few tears. She found Ming Jian Su’s pace too slow and pushed her down, reversing their positions.

“Elder Sister, shouldn’t you make up for that missing month?” she asked.

Ming Jian Su: “…” She had her answer. Feng Chiyue did miss her, but she wasn’t sure if it was her as a person or just her body.

—

The next day.

Feng Chiyue still didn’t want to go to the Celestial Feather Ministry.

Now that her Elder Sister was back, why should she work herself to death?

But even if she didn’t move, Que Chen Yi thoughtfully brought a stack of documents to Dong’e Mountain, diligently reporting on the current situation in the Celestial Feather Ministry.

“The artifact from the Dragon Cauldron Palace has been installed in the Carriage Hall. It’s called ‘Celestial Feather Express.’”

“The Celestial Feather Hall has verified the population numbers of the various lineages and found significant discrepancies compared to the previous records. There are many unregistered ‘black households,’ but they’re still providing labor. The flow of funds is unclear.”

“Several lineages still haven’t reported their numbers.”

Que Chen Yi chattered incessantly.

Feng Chiyue covered her ears, not wanting to hear a single word.

Que Chen Yi: “…” She looked pleadingly at Ming Jian Su, who stood beside them, her presence as sharp as a sword. According to the Chaos Mirror, although the East Abode Master was cold and ruthless, she was also dedicated to her duties, a rare example of diligence in the Immortal Realm. Perhaps… the East Abode Master could persuade the Minister to actually do some work?

“There’s no point in investigating the unclear flow of funds,” Ming Jian Su said, her voice devoid of emotion. The Celestial Feather Ministry had been controlled by Danxue Mountain in the past. Where else could the funds have gone besides their pockets and the Heavenly Emperor’s? “Which lineages haven’t reported their numbers?” she asked.

Que Chen Yi, relieved that someone was taking charge, quickly listed several lineage names.

Ming Jian Su nodded, pondered for a moment, then summoned Undefeated. “Go,” she said.

Que Chen Yi was confused. “What’s this?” she asked cautiously.

Ming Jian Su replied calmly, as if it were obvious. “If they haven’t reported their numbers, it means their lineage is extinct. My sword will go pay its respects.”

Que Chen Yi: “???”

She finally understood who Feng Chiyue had learned from! Was the East Abode Master’s good reputation in the Immortal Realm due to her strength masking her flaws? Or had… the Minister been taking the blame for her? Que Chen Yi had a vivid imagination. She quickly painted Ming Jian Su as a villain, dropped the documents, made an excuse, and fled, as if chased by tigers and wolves.

As soon as Que Chen Yi left, Feng Chiyue uncovered her ears and asked casually, “What did she say?”

Immortals had sharp ears and eyes. How could she not have heard a single word? It was clear that her junior sister’s laziness was acting up again. Ming Jian Su was both amused and exasperated.

“The Celestial Feather Ministry is a mess, Junior Sister. Are you sure you want to take on this responsibility?” The Heavenly Mechanism Department managed the registry of the Immortal Realm, but only the section for Human Immortals was complete, as they ascended through the various heavenly gates. But Heavenly Immortals… if they didn’t report it themselves, who would know if they had children? It wasn’t just Human Immortals who disdained the Heavenly Court and chose to be wandering immortals. There were many Heavenly Immortals who did the same.

“No,” Feng Chiyue said without hesitation. It wasn’t her choice. The Star Monarch had forced her into this position. The Star Monarchs of the Immortal Realm were all villains, jealous of her carefree life. She tugged Ming Jian Su’s sleeve and asked curiously, “Why aren’t you on duty, Elder Sister?”

Ming Jian Su: “…”

After tasting freedom and ease, who would want to return to the drudgery of work?

“I resigned from some of my positions.”

“When?” Feng Chiyue asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Just now,” Ming Jian Su replied. The moment she said she had resigned, she had resigned.

“Will your salary be significantly reduced then?” Feng Chiyue asked with concern.

“I’m afraid you won’t be able to afford me.” Seeing Ming Jian Su’s puzzled expression, she added, “To support me.”

Ming Jian Su: “…”

Those were the shameless words of her beloved junior sister. What an ungrateful little wretch! Despite knowing Feng Chiyue’s nature, Ming Jian Su couldn’t help but laugh. She gritted her teeth and said, “Don’t worry. Even if I have to sell everything I own, I’ll still be able to support you.”

Feng Chiyue blinked. Had Dong’e Mountain already reached the point of selling everything they owned? She should have kept quiet about her debts. After all, time could heal all wounds.

Ming Jian Su’s decision to “resign and retire” wasn’t just talk. She took the time to visit the Heavenly Court. It only took two hours. When she returned, Feng Chiyue was gone!

“Master, perhaps Immortal Monarch Feng went to the Celestial Feather Ministry?” Zhu Wan said, not as worried as Ming Jian Su. After experiencing so much, she had learned to remain calm in the face of adversity.

“Impossible,” Ming Jian Su said, but she still went to the Celestial Feather Ministry to inquire. Que Chen Yi was busy running around, greeting the numerous feathered immortals who came and went, but none of them were Feng Chiyue.

For a moment, Ming Jian Su suspected that Jing De Immortal Monarch, Si Lu Star Monarch, or those feathered immortals from Danxue Mountain had done something. Her aura darkened, and she wanted to send those suspicious immortals to the cycle of reincarnation with Eternal Calamity. It was Zhu Wan who, steeling herself, persuaded her to wait a little longer.

In this short month, not only had Feng Chiyue become a stranger, but even her Master seemed like a different person, radiating a murderous aura. It was too much for her.

Ming Jian Su’s face was devoid of any warmth, her eyes filled with a bone-chilling killing intent. A month ago, when she had decided to leave the Immortal Realm for a while, she had believed that even if there were conflicts among the immortals, they wouldn’t escalate to life-or-death battles.

But the subsequent events had surprised her, especially Danxue Mountain’s audacity. In Heaven in a Pot, she could have persuaded Feng Chiyue to stop and minimize the damage, but she hadn’t. She had chosen to eliminate them all, erasing all traces of the ambush. She had spent many years training in the mortal realm and understood that when rules were useless, only absolute power could ensure justice.

She and Chang Li were both among the Four Generals of the Heavenly Court. Their relationship wasn’t particularly good or bad. But from now on, Danxue Mountain and Chang Li were her enemies.

It wasn’t until sunset that Feng Chiyue finally returned to Dong’e Mountain.

Before she could even catch her breath, Ming Jian Su appeared before her like a bolt of lightning, pulling her into a tight embrace, her grip so strong that it felt like she wanted to merge their bones and blood.

Feng Chiyue was always willing to be intimate with Ming Jian Su, but this wasn’t the right time. She had traveled a long distance and was exhausted. She pushed Ming Jian Su away and said, “Elder Sister, let me catch my breath.”

Ming Jian Su frowned, her face cold. “Where have you been? Did someone ambush you on the way?”

Feng Chiyue broke free from her embrace, her eyes sparkling with joy. She grabbed Ming Jian Su’s wrist and said excitedly, “Come with me.” Without waiting for a response, she dragged Ming Jian Su back to the Dharma Hall. She made a hand gesture, and a series of thuds echoed through the hall. Over ten Qiankun bags landed on the couch.

“Look!”

The openings of the bags loosened, and a dazzling multicolored light, brighter than the ornate decorations in the hall, filled Ming Jian Su’s vision. She had experienced her own moments of glory, but even then, she had never seen so many treasures, never been so wealthy. She gasped, her previous worries vanishing completely.

“Junior Sister, who did you rob?” she asked cautiously. With so many treasures, it couldn’t be just one person, right? Had she plundered the Heavenly Emperor’s treasury?

Chapter 28p2

After sending Yun Ze away, Ming Jian Su headed towards the Purple Empyrean Palace.

She flew on her sword, the sword light shining brightly, attracting attention. Whether they had read the Chaos Mirror or not, almost half of the Heavenly Court knew she was back.

This news was even more shocking than her “death.” The usually peaceful Heavenly Court was abuzz with activity, the immortal officials each harboring their own thoughts.

As for the Heavenly Emperor… he had been troubled by the selection of a new East Abode Master, but with Ming Jian Su’s return, he naturally abandoned the matter, relieved of a burden. He didn’t seem too concerned about what had happened during her disappearance.

He exchanged a few pleasantries with her and then vanished from sight. Ming Jian Su was surprised. She had expected to be forced to write a lengthy report. It was Ming Yuheng who, as they left the Purple Empyrean Palace together, explained, “The Great Yin Celestial Mother has left seclusion.”

The Heavenly Emperor, chosen by the Mandate of Heaven, represented the yang aspect of the Heavenly Dao. Whenever a Heavenly Emperor was born, a “Celestial Mother” would also be born in the realm of yin.

She would eventually become the Heavenly Emperor’s Dao companion, balancing the yin and yang, the pure and turbid energies of heaven and earth. The Heavenly Emperor might change, but the Celestial Mother remained constant. Traditionally, the Celestial Mother and Heavenly Emperor shared the responsibility of governing the Heavenly Court.

However, this Celestial Mother was different. She spent most of her time in seclusion. Because of this, her presence in the Heavenly Court had gradually faded. But now, she was back. The other immortal officials didn’t seem to care, but the Heavenly Emperor, accustomed to ruling alone, must be anxious.

“I heard that the Heavenly Emperor’s cultivation is inferior to the Celestial Mother’s. He was once reprimanded by her,” Ming Yuheng whispered, sharing gossip about the two supreme rulers.

Ming Jian Su wasn’t interested. Her gaze fell upon a Daoist priest wearing a tall hat and a long robe. She took the unusual step of greeting him first. “Immortal Monarch Jing De, it’s been a while.”

Jing De Immortal Monarch: “…” He had wanted to pretend he hadn’t seen her. What “while”? He wished he could avoid her forever. What kind of crevice on the battlefield between the Immortal and Demon Realms could trap Ming Jian Su? Why had her “death” turned out to be false? If he had known she was still alive, how could he have possibly bullied her junior sister? Well, in the end, it wasn’t Ming Jian Su who had been bullied. He twisted his stiff neck, forcing an ugly smile onto his face, and bowed.

Ming Jian Su pretended she hadn’t seen his reaction and walked past him, as if she hadn’t been the one who had called out to him.

Jing De Immortal Monarch wasn’t relieved to have avoided a confrontation. Instead, he felt a chill run down his spine. If Ming Jian Su had sought revenge right then and there, the matter would have been settled. But her inaction meant that their grudge wouldn’t be easily resolved. She wouldn’t kill him in front of their colleagues, but what about outside Kunlun Mountain?

Ming Jian Su’s return was a “tragedy” for Jing De Immortal Monarch, Ao Chaofeng, and the others, but for Chu Yi, it was a cause for “joy.”

She hadn’t gone to the Purple Empyrean Palace today, but she had heard from other sources that Ming Jian Su had fallen into a crevice on the battlefield between the Immortal and Demon Realms and received a fortuitous encounter.

“Her cultivation must have improved. If she’s willing to be my opponent, even just in the Ethereal Spirit Realm, it would be wonderful,” Chu Yi said, pacing back and forth in her hall.

Finally, she said excitedly, “Someone, bring me a piece of Fallen Star Stone from my treasury.”

It was a type of meteorite iron used to refine swords, extremely rare. But then, she frowned and waved her hand.

“Wait.”

Fallen Star Stone was valuable, but it might not be the most suitable gift for Ming Jian Su. After a moment of thought, she grimaced and said through gritted teeth, “Choose a few bolts of colorful cloud brocade from my treasury.” It wasn’t that she was unwilling to part with them, but the idea of using Feng Chiyue to win over Ming Jian Su left her with a strange sense of displeasure.

Ming Jian Su was a flawless jade, while Feng Chiyue… was a blemish that couldn’t be erased.

Regardless of their true feelings, anyone who didn’t want to antagonize Dong’e Mountain sent a gift after learning of Ming Jian Su’s return. Even Ming Yuheng, Chu Yi, and the Phoenixes, who usually disliked Ming Jian Su, prepared generous gifts. Perhaps because she didn’t want to see Ming Jian Su and Feng Chiyue together, Feng Yao simply dropped off the gift and left without a word.

Zhu Wan, exhausted after sorting and storing the gifts, was left alone on Dong’e Mountain after the other attendants and officials left. Feng Chiyue was useless, and as for her Master… how could she, a mere disciple, burden her? Her Master had said nonchalantly that she could leave the gifts for now, but Zhu Wan couldn’t stand the mess, so she resigned herself to cleaning up.

“Master, those officials who left want to return to Dong’e Mountain. Is that alright?” Zhu Wan asked when she saw Ming Jian Su. She hadn’t cut off contact with them. After leaving, they had realized that Dong’e Mountain offered the best treatment. Not only did they receive their full salaries, but they were also allowed to study Daoist texts and improve their cultivation. Outside, they were constantly busy with menial tasks, serving other immortals.

Feng Chiyue sat on a swing, her toes touching the ground, her gaze fixed lazily on Ming Jian Su.

Ming Jian Su, however, seemed to have ignored Zhu Wan’s question. She held a jade plate in her left hand and a small skewer in her right, spearing a piece of spiritual fruit and feeding it to Feng Chiyue. Seeing Feng Chiyue close her eyes contentedly, a smile curved Ming Jian Su’s lips.

Zhu Wan: “…” She shouldn’t have come here.

“No,” Ming Jian Su finally answered as Zhu Wan hesitated, wondering if she should repeat her question. Abandoning her junior sister in her time of need was unforgivable. They were already being merciful by not reclaiming everything they had been given. How dare they even dream of returning?

Zhu Wan didn’t care whether they returned or not. Taking advantage of Ming Jian Su’s good mood, she asked, “Should we recruit new officials then?”

Feng Chiyue looked up and said slowly, “Humans are unreliable.”

Zhu Wan faltered, then asked hesitantly, “Then… Phoenixes?” Could it be that Feng Chiyue wanted to support her own kind and strengthen the ties between Phoenix Mountain and Dong’e Mountain?

Feng Chiyue frowned.

Ming Jian Su glanced at Zhu Wan. “There won’t be a second Phoenix in Dong’e Mountain,” she said.

“I remember now. I asked Chang Huai to make some things. You can ask her for them,” Feng Chiyue said, ignoring Zhu Wan. She looked up at Ming Jian Su and added, “I haven’t paid her yet.”

Ming Jian Su: “…”

“Besides Chang Huai, I also asked Zhu Wan to run up some debts elsewhere,” Feng Chiyue continued.

Running up debts… Ming Jian Su had never done such a thing, even in the mortal realm. Hearing Feng Chiyue’s words, she couldn’t sit still any longer. She hastily sent Zhu Wan to the Dragon Cauldron Palace to settle their accounts with Chang Huai.

However, a young Daoist boy from the Dragon Cauldron Palace saw them and excitedly told his companions,

“The East Abode Master is here to pay her debts!”

Somehow, the news spread and became distorted.

It became “The East Abode Master is cleaning up Feng Chiyue’s messes. Anyone who has suffered losses because of Feng Chiyue can seek compensation from her.”

After this news spread, both the officials from the Celestial Feather Ministry and those who had been wronged by Feng Chiyue when she was a gate emissary sent bills to Dong’e Mountain.

Ming Jian Su was so angry she laughed.

In Danxue Mountain.

The Vermilion Birds, Bifangs, and other feathered lineages were gloomy, their faces ashen. They had hoped that the Celestial Pivot Department would intervene, but who could have imagined that Ming Jian Su would return? The Celestial Pivot Department had simply laughed it off, saying they would investigate further if they found any evidence. They wouldn’t arrest Feng Chiyue and naturally wouldn’t touch the Phoenixes. The matter could only be dropped.

Previously, some elders had doubted Feng Chiyue’s ability, but now, they were almost certain she was the culprit. After all, with Ming Jian Su, whose cultivation had undoubtedly improved, they were more than capable of killing their clansmen. Unfortunately, there was no concrete evidence, and the Celestial Pivot Department wasn’t willing to offend Ming Jian Su for their sake.

“We’ve missed our best chance. Are we just going to let Feng Chiyue get away with this? With Ming Jian Su’s support, will there even be a place for us in the Celestial Feather Ministry?” an elder asked, his voice filled with resentment.

“Feng Chiyue isn’t on good terms with the Phoenixes. Why don’t we just ignore her?” someone suggested, fear creeping into their hearts.

“It’s not about whether we want to ignore her or not. Do you know that the Celestial Feather Ministry is re-registering the population numbers of all lineages?”

“What does that have to do with anything?” someone asked, puzzled.

“You fool!” the Vermilion Bird elder snapped, furious. “There were problems with the previous registry. Where do you think those laborers who mined and harvested resources for us came from?” After Danxue Mountain took control of the Celestial Feather Ministry, most of the resources hadn’t gone to the ministry but to them. They had used the Celestial Feather Ministry’s name to benefit themselves. The ministry was crucial for their foothold in the Heavenly Court.

“Then what should we do? The East Abode Master is back. Can we still remove Feng Chiyue from the Celestial Feather Ministry?” An anxious voice echoed through the hall.

The Vermilion Bird elder pondered for a moment. “From today onwards, no official from Danxue Mountain is allowed to work in the Heavenly Court,” he said.

“That’s not a good idea. There are many candidates for selection. If we give up, we’re simply handing our gains to others,” someone immediately objected. He chuckled coldly and said, “Doesn’t Phoenix Mountain have many candidates for selection? Let’s push them forward. The Heavenly Emperor won’t allow the Phoenixes to rise again.”

“Have you forgotten, fellow Daoists? Now, everyone from the feathered race who wants to advance through the Celestial Feather Ministry has to participate in the assessment!”

The elders: “…”

“The assessment has angered many. During the court meeting in the Purple Empyrean Palace, they were going to cancel it, but it was delayed due to other matters. If the opposition grows stronger, we can definitely paint Feng Chiyue as the villain of the Immortal Realm.”

“But only we, Danxue Mountain, are opposed to it. How loud can our voices be?”

“I understand your meaning, fellow Daoist. Tomorrow, we’ll submit a petition to implement the assessment system in the Four Seas Ministry, the White Tiger Ministry, and even the main office of the Heavenly Mechanism Department! Why should only our feathered race suffer?” Either no one would be assessed, or all officials would suffer together.

In Dong’e Mountain, Feng Chiyue, who had never been eager to work, hadn’t expected those old geezers from Danxue Mountain to create even more trouble for her. She was currently preoccupied with a new problem.

Feng Chiyue was fiddling with a jade ruyi she had obtained from somewhere. She knelt before Ming Jian Su, pressing the ruyi against her collarbone, her eyes downcast. “Why is Chu Yi visiting you so often?” she asked. “Does the Heavenly Court lack worthy opponents for her? Why doesn’t she go find Ming Yuheng or Chang Li?”

Ming Jian Su was also puzzled. She had rejected the Emperor’s Daughter several times before, and Chu Yi had stopped pestering her. But after her return, Chu Yi had become unusually enthusiastic, even coming to Dong’e Mountain personally. Was it for sparring? Or did she have other motives? Ming Jian Su ignored her disheveled robes and asked instead, “Junior Sister, how many times did she visit you while I was gone?”