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78 p2

The next day, after Cui Xiaoxiao fully sobered up and opened her door while yawning, she saw a row of disciples kneeling before her.

With bashful expressions, they uniformly knelt to pledge to Patriarch Cui of the Joyous Unity Sect, expressing their long admiration for the profound and ancient martial arts of harmonious male-female dual cultivation. If given the opportunity to learn these esoteric immortal arts from Patriarch Cui, they vowed to practice diligently day and night…

Cui Xiaoxiao listened to their nonsense with a blank expression, feeling she must have opened the door improperly. So she promptly closed it again and… jumped out the window instead.

After blowing a fox whistle, Yu Ling’er also leapt down from the second floor, admiring, “Xiaoxiao, you really are destined for greatness. You merely mentioned founding a new sect, and immediately gained followers! But we can’t just choose disciples based on looks, we need to consider their family wealth too. At the very least, we should recruit some affluent disciples like Wei Jie to ensure the Patriarch doesn’t struggle for food and drink!”

The previous night, Tang Youshu had secretly knocked on Yu Ling’er’s window. Unfortunately, he was also out of money and could only give her one of his jade pendants, telling her to pawn it first. He would send her money later after selling some talismans and medicines.

Seeing he didn’t mention taking her and Cui Xiaoxiao back to Guistone Cliff, Yu Ling’er was so annoyed by Lord Tang’s rambling that she slammed the window shut, pinching his hand before he fell from the impact and crashed through the inn’s stable awning, prompting more demands for compensation from the innkeeper…

It seemed Lord Tang would need to make some major transactions…

But if Cui Xiaoxiao founded a sect and recruited some wealthy disciples, Lord Tang wouldn’t have to struggle so hard.

Seeing Yu Ling’er’s excitement exceeding her own, Cui Xiaoxiao couldn’t help but ask, “What about you? If you’re not returning to the Talisman Sect, will you join my Joyous Unity Sect too?”

Yu Ling’er seriously considered it, “You were the one who helped our Fox Tribe endure the heavenly tribulation, so I should follow you! With Wei Jie’s current ‘not recognizing anyone’ attitude, and Lord Tang learning bad habits from him, who knows how they might bully me if I return? I’ll just follow you. Besides, the ‘Carefree’ part of your Joyous Unity Sect’s name sounds perfect for our Fox Tribe! Why don’t I get Tang Youshu to defect to you as well?”

Thinking of this, Yu Ling’er’s foxy eyes lit up, wishing Cui Xiaoxiao would quickly recruit some talented disciples so Lord Tang could join her instead.

Cui Xiaoxiao felt she had sobered up enough not to continue such an unproductive conversation with Yu Ling’er.

She simply rolled her eyes helplessly before turning to head onto the street.

Cui Xiaoxiao had originally intended to find a place for breakfast. But upon reaching the main street, she discovered it was blocked off, surrounded by crowds of spectators.

Inquiring with others, she learned that the King of Changshan was marrying off his daughter, and today was the eve of the wedding ceremony when the groom’s family would deliver the betrothal gifts.

As for why the Princess of Yongning’s marriage was taking place in Luoyi City, it was because the King of Changshan’s territory was rather distant, while the groom’s family, the Marquis of Zhongyong, was located near the nearby Changcheng City.

For the convenience of marrying off his daughter, the King had arrived in Luoyi City first to temporarily reside, receive the betrothal gifts here, and have the bridal procession pass through on the way.

This was a common practice for families marrying off daughters to distant locations – to accommodate the groom’s family, sending the bride ahead before the wedding ceremony to make arrangements easier.

Seeing the long procession of betrothal gift carriages on the street, Cui Xiaoxiao knew the market would be blocked for a while.

Worried those disciples who wanted to join the Joyous Unity Sect might follow her, and not wanting to gawk at the spectacle, she donned a hooded cloak to conceal her face, pulling Yu Ling’er to a nearby pastry shop instead.

With everyone outside watching the parade, the pastry shop’s tea tables were all vacant. Cui Xiaoxiao went upstairs and ordered a few pastries along with a pot of flower tea to share with Ling’er.

However, they were not the only customers upstairs. It seemed there was also a lady guest in the adjacent private room, seated with her back towards them, her face concealed by a light veil.

It was quite normal for women to maintain a low profile in such male-frequented establishments to avoid gossip.

After taking a couple bites, two customers who had just finished watching the parade also entered and sat by the window upstairs. While ordering tea and snacks, one of them said, “The King of Changshan has always been extravagant and particular with customs. From what we saw, the husband-to-be he’s recruited is no slouch either. Such a grand display, he’s really going all out.”

The other man couldn’t help but snort derisively upon hearing this, “Going all out? I have a cousin who helped pack the betrothal chests for the Marquis of Zhongyong’s family yesterday. He said that while those pointed silver chests looked plentiful, they weren’t even filled to the brim. The top halves did contain real silver ingots, but the bottom halves were stuffed with plain bricks! And some of the silk bolts were old, damaged fabric as well. They’re trying to put on a false front, laughable!”

Hearing this, the first man became more animated, slapping his thigh, “Ah, so that’s how it is! It’s said the Marquis of Zhongyong’s estate has declined severely lately, barely keeping up appearances by relying on the Marquis’ wife’s maternal family’s wealth. But how could they afford such an extravagant betrothal with their current state? So they resorted to such trickery! But what did the King of Changshan see in the Marquis’ family to agree to this marriage for his cherished princess?”

“I heard the King values loyalty above all. Didn’t he get disfigured at a banquet fire a while back? It was said the Marquis’ son saved him then, which led to this marriage alliance… But that young master was known for indulging in wine and women, almost spending himself into ruin. Yet he still had the courage to perform such a daring rescue? Perhaps he did it to impress his future father-in-law and win over the beautiful princess?”

The two men gossiped endlessly like a pair of old wives.

Upon hearing this, Cui Xiaoxiao paused in her tea drinking, straining to eavesdrop more closely on the men’s conversation.

She knew today’s bride receiving the betrothal gifts was the Princess of Yongning who had gifted her the Guistone Cliff inn.

That unrestrained yet beautiful princess was to be married into such a deceitful, impoverished family resorting to stuffing bricks as silver?

Cui Xiaoxiao felt pity for the poor princess just listening to this…

At this moment, she noticed the veiled lady guest abruptly stand up from the adjacent private room and march towards the gossiping men, angrily demanding, “How dare you spout such nonsense without proof?”

The two gossiping men had been engrossed in their dramatic retelling, never expecting an eavesdropper nearby.

Caught off guard criticizing the wealthy, they could only glare defiantly, “We were just discussing our own matters, what business is it of yours?”

The indignant lady huffed, “You claimed the Marquis of Zhongyong’s estate substituted inferior goods to deceive with the betrothal gifts. What proof do you have?”

The men sneered dismissively, “We never said that. If you’re so curious, why don’t you go help the Princess of Yongning inspect the gifts herself and find out!”

At this point, a few maidservants came over to placate the lady, one saying softly, “Please don’t listen to the idle chatter of commoners. It’s getting late, we should return.”

But the veiled lady remained adamant, gritting her teeth, “If even commoners are aware of such matters, how can I remain ignorant? If it’s true, must I wait until the gifts enter the manor before swallowing this bitter pill?”

Saying this, she took a few steps towards the entrance, peering through the crowds at the lingering betrothal procession. She suddenly raised two fingers to her temples, focusing her gaze intently on those pointed silver chests.

At that moment, the shop banners suddenly began flapping wildly in a whipping gale that kicked up dust, forcing people to squeeze their eyes shut.

The abrupt windstorm only grew fiercer, almost toppling the porters carrying the chests. With a series of loud clatters, those silver-pointed chests overturned, spilling their contents that were indeed only bricks stuffed underneath a thin layer of silver ingots.

Watching from the second-floor window, Cui Xiaoxiao clearly saw the long-winded gossiper’s cousin had not lied – the Marquis of Zhongyong’s estate really had engaged in such deception!

At this moment, Cui Xiaoxiao also recognized the veiled lady revealed by the windswept hood as none other than the Princess of Yongning herself, someone she had crossed paths with before.

The gentle princess actually knew wind-controlling martial arts? Cui Xiaoxiao never expected this pampered lady to possess such skills!

But the princess was indeed bold, so brazenly exposing her future in-laws’ shame before the entire street.

At this point, the Princess of Yongning coldly ordered one of her guards, “Go! Inform the betrothal party that this is by my command. The servants of the Marquis of Zhongyong’s estate resorted to trickery when packing the gifts. Ask them to return and properly account for the real value of the gifts before my father will set another date. Speak up loudly so no one can feign deafness!”

The guard promptly relayed the princess’s instructions after presenting the Prince Cangshan’s insignia, loudly announcing her words to the stunned betrothal procession.

This immediately caused an uproar among the crowd. The situation was clear – the Marquis of Zhongyong had tried to deceive with false gifts, but got exposed by a freak windstorm witnessed by the King’s estate. Now the betrothal would be rejected and renegotiated!

The Marquis’ attendants were flustered, unsure how to proceed as they squatted to collect the scattered silver and bricks, awaiting instructions from the main estate.

Meanwhile, the Marquis’ steward could only stomp his feet in frustration before hurrying to the Prince Cangshan’s temporary manor in Luoyi City to offer explanations.

Seeing the Princess of Yongning was also about to return to the manor, Cui Xiaoxiao said to Yu Ling’er, “Let’s go take a look too.”

Yu Ling’er’s prying nature exceeded even regular humans, how could she miss out on such juicy drama? She gladly followed Cui Xiaoxiao out while concealing their faces.

But the further they walked, the more puzzled Yu Ling’er became, finally whispering, “Aren’t they heading towards Prince Can’s former manor?”

Chapter 78p1

Tang Youshu looked around before gazing at the lit rooms on the second floor of the inn.

Through the window lattices, he seemed to still see Yu Ling’er’s silhouette. Earlier, Yu Ling’er had briefly mentioned something about running out of money. Unfortunately, before Tang Youshu could give her more, Cui Xiaoxiao had pulled her upstairs.

Feeling his now empty money pouch, Tang Youshu let out a long sigh.

After just a few days, why did Ling’er’s face look so thin? The money pouch he had given her must have been insufficient. Girls were still growing, the amount he gave really was too little.

With Master regaining his divine nature, it seemed he wouldn’t be asking the Wei Family for money anymore. It looked like Tang Youshu would have to find opportunities to sell some invigorating romance talismans to continue supporting them!

As for Yu Ling’er and Cui Xiaoxiao returning to their inn room, Yu Ling’er worriedly touched Cui Xiaoxiao’s cheek, asking if she wanted her to go to the kitchen and make a sobering egg and vinegar soup?

Cui Xiaoxiao smiled and told Yu Ling’er not to worry about her, to just go rest herself.

It wasn’t the wine that intoxicated people, but the people themselves. Most infamous drunkards through the ages merely used drunkenness as an excuse for foolishness.

She too was truly drunk, about seventy percent. Her inability to walk earlier was real, but not to the point of allowing herself to be taken advantage of.

In fact, Cui Xiaoxiao had sensed someone tailing her long ago. She had even indulged in the wishful thinking that it might be Wei Jie, unable to let her go and following her.

Ever since time-traveling to two hundred years ago, Wei Jie had never proactively separated from her. There always seemed to be an inexplicable bond between them.

But tonight, when Qin Lingxiao appeared, Cui Xiaoxiao’s hopes were dashed. It turned out her tail was merely Qin Lingxiao.

With the five phoenix spirits possessing her, Cui Xiaoxiao’s senses were sharper. So halfway through drinking with Qin Lingxiao, she vaguely sensed another presence secretly observing them.

Cui Xiaoxiao deliberately pretended to be more intoxicated to see if she could lure out the snake. But she never expected the brazen Qin Lingxiao to actually try and take advantage of her feigned drunkenness!

Even if Wei Jie and the others hadn’t intervened, once Cui Xiaoxiao regained a bit of her wits, she wouldn’t have allowed Qin Lingxiao to succeed.

But when Wei Jie appeared before Cui Xiaoxiao’s eyes at that moment, she was truly dazed, feeling like her obedient disciple Jie’er had returned!

However, facts proved that some people’s appearances only increased one’s displeasure. The elation of one moment was matched by the devastation of the next.

Cui Xiaoxiao couldn’t even be bothered to ask why Wei Jie and Tang Youshu had appeared here.

It seemed the delicacies of Luoyi City still weren’t enough, for she would have to leave again. It was just that Qin Lingxiao had fled too swiftly with his grease-skating technique! Otherwise, Cui Xiaoxiao had wanted to discuss finding a way to quickly return to two hundred years later.

This was how Yu Ling’er returned to her own room while Cui Xiaoxiao prepared to rest as well.

But just as she laid down on the mat, her peripheral vision caught a dark figure by the window…

How did this person enter? Why hadn’t she detected them at all?

Cui Xiaoxiao sat up abruptly, but the dark silhouette had already spoken in a cold voice, “At such an excellent hour for cultivation, you’re actually lying down to sleep! Didn’t your master ever tell you that meditating at night is most beneficial for immortal cultivation?”

Recognizing the familiar voice, Cui Xiaoxiao helplessly smoothed her disheveled hair and said, “The late Lord Tang ‘died’ too early to teach me anything. But I should have taught you some etiquette – you need to knock before entering a lady’s bedchamber. If she doesn’t let you in, you can’t just barge in randomly!”

Wei Jie fell silent, for he clearly remembered Cui Xiaoxiao reminding him countless times not to enter her room without knocking.

But most of the time, he hadn’t listened, always unexpectedly pushing open Cui Xiaoxiao’s window and poking his head in with a smile, calling out “Master”…

Thinking of this, Wei Jie’s forehead tightened again, the flame pattern seemingly reminding him that those irrelevant past memories need not be dwelled upon further.

However, Cui Xiaoxiao’s unrestrained indulgence in drinking with Qin Lingxiao on the roof tonight could not be so easily ignored.

If she were truly his master, then Cui Xiaoxiao’s self-indulgence and disrespect would be none of his business as a disciple.

But according to Tang Youshu, Cui Xiaoxiao was actually his grand-disciple!

Since she was his junior, how could he watch her wallow in such dejection and disgrace the sect?

Thinking this, seeing Cui Xiaoxiao’s unteachable manner, he took a few steps forward and yanked her off the mat, “You have time to admire the moon and drink with men, but no effort for focused cultivation? Cui Xiaoxiao, you were never like this before!”

Wei Jie gripped her wrist tightly, and Cui Xiaoxiao couldn’t break free, only giving an awkward smile, “People change. You used to treat me differently too!”

For now, she had simply lost the motivation to move forward, only wanting to find a place to eat, drink, and sleep, tending to her wounds.

Since Wei Jie had already awakened his divine nature and severed worldly desires, it was good progress for him. But why did he have to disturb her, a mere mortal?

Wei Jie now felt he had transcended romantic affairs, but guiding his grand-disciple’s self-improvement did not conflict with his divine nature.

Master Wei insisted persistently, even rolling up Cui Xiaoxiao’s sleeves again.

Cui Xiaoxiao’s entire arm was now covered in dense golden scales, showing how her dejected mood these past few days had deepened her demonic transformation.

This matched his expectations – the demon bead’s demonic nature required a corresponding level of spiritual cultivation to suppress.

Moreover, Cui Xiaoxiao had also been previously possessed by the five phoenixes, further complicating matters. If she continued to slack off, her life could be in jeopardy.

Thinking of this, Wei Jie glared at Cui Xiaoxiao’s disobedience, his gaze growing even colder.

Wei Jie even thought: if she remained so stubborn, he might as well ignore her. After all, her predetermined fate was the ill-fated “Ten Injuries” destiny, so if she truly became demonized, it wouldn’t be surprising.

As Wei Jie coldly contemplated this, a sudden pang gripped his chest.

It felt like an aftereffect of the time he shed blood and tears for this woman in the Phoenix Secret Realm.

These past few days, whenever matters related to her came to mind, his chest would tighten painfully, as if someone was chiseling at it with a wooden mallet.

Although he had no intention of wasting time on romantic affairs, he constantly wondered if she was resisting the demonic nature unharmed.

So he had taken the pretext of investigating Prince Can’s whereabouts to leave the mountain and check on her condition.

But this woman turned out to be even worse than he expected!

Wei Jie was almost resentful towards Tang Youshu – if they needed someone with the “Ten Injuries” fate to reactivate the deity statue, couldn’t they have found someone less troublesome?

Cui Xiaoxiao felt she had experienced enough heartache for one night.

Of course she cherished her own life. Even without Wei Jie’s warning, after wallowing in dejection for a few days, she would eventually regain her spirit and start increasing her spiritual power.

After all, others cultivated immortality, while she cultivated inner energy for self-preservation.

But it seemed Wei Jie was being an even more unruly disciple than his nominal title!

If he advised her as an old friend, they could still manage cordial civilities.

But this Wei fellow had to put on airs as a Patriarch, coming to lecture her – this brat was asking for it!

At this point, Cui Xiaoxiao couldn’t be bothered arguing with him. She suddenly attacked, slapping out a palm strike towards Wei Jie’s chest.

Wei Jie instinctively retreated, backing out of the room in a few steps.

Immediately after, Cui Xiaoxiao’s door slammed shut in his face.

A cold feminine voice came from inside, “It’s late, so I ask the Venerable Wei and your disciple to promptly leave! From the moment I departed Lingshan, I am no longer a Talisman Sect disciple. There’s no need for you to trouble yourself over my affairs!”

Wei Jie detested this woman’s stubbornness: what was she trying to do? Defect from the sect without her master’s permission?

So he said coldly, “You’re quite capable. Without your master’s approval, let’s see which sect dares accept you!”

The girl inside seemed provoked by his words, angrily shouting through the door, “I’ve always been capable, no need to join another sect! Let me tell you, I’m going to start my own mountain and establish a new sect! Starting tomorrow, I’ll found a sect… the Carefree Joyous Unity Sect!”

Wei Jie clearly didn’t expect Cui Xiaoxiao to actually intend to establish a Joyous Unity Sect!

Her defiant declaration left his violet eyes flickering with a reddish tinge from sheer rage.

If not for the blue flame on his forehead stabilizing Wei Jie’s divine soul, allowing him to regain his chill, he might have taken some action.

This woman was utterly unbeneficial to immortal cultivation. If he continued arguing, Wei Jie feared he might not be able to control his turbulent anger.

In the next moment, too lazy to further entangle with the unruly girl, he vanished down the silent hallway, radiating icy coldness.

However, after Wei Jie left, the doors of several guest rooms on this floor opened.

It turned out to be those disciples Cui Xiaoxiao had previously driven away from taking oaths, including the persistent Ling Zhanshan!

A disciple from Wonderful Immortal Mountain said with concern, “Little Sister, I think we should reconsider! This Cui Xiaoxiao actually intends to establish a Joyous Unity Sect… We brothers don’t really care, and if we must join, we can endure being debauched once as a heavy price to pay. But you, as a esteemed young lady, how could you accept joining such a licentious sect?”

Hearing her senior Brother’s inappropriate reassurance, Ling Zhanshan glared with her almond-shaped eyes, “Have you all gone mad? Can’t you see Wei Jie’s current cultivation is far beyond Cui Xiaoxiao’s? Would I forsake pledging to a true master to follow this demoness instead? What are you all thinking?!”

Saying this, she led the others to check out of the inn.

In fact, apart from Qin Lingxiao, over a dozen disciples still insisted on taking oaths under Cui Xiaoxiao after she left Lingshan.

After barely surviving the hellish trial at Guistone Cliff, how could they accept such efforts being in vain?

But they never expected that following her here would lead to the shocking news of Cui Xiaoxiao officially abandoning the Talisman Sect to practice the Joyous Unity Sect instead!

Suddenly, it all made sense! No wonder Cui Xiaoxiao had poisoned them before – it was to test if their essence and vigor were sufficient for intensive dual cultivation!

Some disciples left with Ling Zhanshan’s group, but most decided to stay.

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The impact sobered Cui Xiaoxiao somewhat as she let out a pained “Aiyo!” but also clearing much of the drunken haze.

On the other side, Qin Lingxiao had just recovered from the shock of Wei Jie’s current power and demeanor so closely resembling the former Demon Lord. Seeing Wei Jie treat Cui Xiaoxiao so roughly, his eyes widened again in disbelief.

However, what happened next caused Qin Lingxiao a flicker of dark delight.

Previously, he had only overheard fragments, thinking Cui Xiaoxiao and Wei Jie had merely quarreled, which was why the inelegant Wei Jie couldn’t coax Cui Xiaoxiao and she angrily left.

But today, he realized Wei Jie’s inability to placate others was the least of his problems – he would simply grow old alone!

With the way he treated Cui Xiaoxiao, how could she possibly forgive him?

Indeed, after being unceremoniously dumped and somewhat sobered, Cui Xiaoxiao slowly looked around at the surrounding people. She massaged her head but didn’t even look at Wei Jie, only getting up and pulling Yu Ling’er along as she said, “It’s late, let’s go back and rest.”

At this moment, Cui Xiaoxiao didn’t spare Wei Jie a single glance, not even asking why he had appeared in Luoyi City. She simply pulled Yu Ling’er, heading towards the inn rooms.

But Yu Ling’er was still holding onto Qin Lingxiao’s hand.

For a moment, Qin Lingxiao automatically followed the two girls into the inn.

Such an absurd scene would be unacceptable even to cultivators of the Joyous Unity Sect!

Tang Youshu saw Yu Ling’er still clutching Qin Lingxiao and was about to speak up when Wei Jie’s qi sword lashed out at Qin Lingxiao again.

This time, Wei Jie didn’t bother concealing his killing intent. Qin Lingxiao could only release Yu Ling’er’s hand and leap away with all his effort to narrowly evade to the side.

Unfortunately, the inn’s bluestone courtyard wall could not withstand a Demon Lord’s full-force qi sword, immediately crumbling with a thunderous boom.

“Wei Jie, have you gone mad? Daring to publicly attack like this in the city?” Qin Lingxiao exclaimed angrily, seeing Wei Jie unleash such heavy force.

Wei Jie gave him a cold sidelong glance, as if looking at an insect to be crushed underfoot, “A wretched thing that slaughtered his master and ancestors, you don’t even deserve to live under this heaven and earth.”

These words caused Qin Lingxiao’s eyes to widen again in disbelief as he stared at Wei Jie.

What did he mean? Could it be… he had also regained his memories from his previous life?

Although he never admitted it, Qin Lingxiao knew full well how he had seized that one-in-a-million chance to slay Wei Jie in the original timeline.

That previous success was purely by a fortuitous convergence of luck.

Since returning to two hundred years ago, whenever Qin Lingxiao clashed verbally or physically with Wei Jie, he had always arrogantly assumed his current two-hundred-year head start gave him at least an equal chance against this era’s Wei Jie.

But he had never imagined that if the former peerless Demon Lord Master truly returned, it would be such a hellish scenario! This seemingly impossible day had arrived without any warning!

Qin Lingxiao’s body reacted instinctively before his mind, four qi swords erupting as he leapt upon them, grease-skating away into the distance in the blink of an eye.

Even Yu Ling’er was dumbstruck watching this scene of a rat fleeing a tiger as Qin Lingxiao escaped at full speed, almost leaving his shoes behind.

She was used to Qin Lingxiao’s arrogant provocations whenever facing Wei Jie.

But this sight of open terror and desperate flight was utterly unfamiliar to her.

Wei Jie again fixed that insect-eyed glare on Cui Xiaoxiao, saying coldly, “And you could actually drink with such a thing. You really don’t have any standards!”

Cui Xiaoxiao had by now adapted to her former beloved disciple’s aloof immortal demeanor and poisonous barbs.

Seemingly not understanding his mockery, she simply smiled faintly, “I never discriminate when drinking. When it comes to men, I simply enjoy admiring youthful, handsome appearances worth appreciating. In that regard, the Young Pavilion Lord is far younger than you! If I could accept even you before, why wouldn’t he be acceptable?”

Unfortunately, the Young Pavilion Lord had already fled with his grease-skating technique, so Cui Xiaoxiao’s praising words never reached his ears, otherwise it would truly be worth downing three big cups to celebrate!

Even with his divine nature unveiled, able to perceive the emptiness of worldly romances, Wei Jie was still utterly blindsided by Cui Xiaoxiao’s shamelessness!

She had nearly been violated by Qin Lingxiao yet showed no remorse or regret, able to shamelessly declare her standards for toying with men!

Wei Jie’s violet eyes seemed to bleed for an instant, but the flickering blue flame on his forehead allowed him to suppress the sudden nameless rage and indescribable emotion.

In the end, he clenched and unclenched his fists a few times, still glaring at the unrepentant Cui Xiaoxiao as he rebuked Tang Youshu instead, “Are you dead? Your disciple acts so shamelessly and you, as her master, don’t know what to do?”

The corner of Tang Youshu’s mouth twitched – he really didn’t want to bring up being Cui Xiaoxiao’s master now! Currently, this girl looked at him like he was her enemy.

Tang Youshu had first deceived and used his innocent disciple, then personally drove apart a loving pair of lovebirds. Now watching that formerly affectionate couple view each other with hostility, if he tried to lecture from a master’s stance, he would need a face thicker than city walls!

So hearing Wei Jie’s words, Tang Youshu could only sigh deeply and awkwardly wave at Cui Xiaoxiao and Yu Ling’er, “Well… it’s late, the ‘Yellow Emperor’s Classic’ states that neither lying in late nor staying up too late is the root of all illnesses. As ladies, you should get enough rest, or your complexions will suffer…”

Wei Jie narrowed his eyes as he shot Tang Youshu, his disciple of two lifetimes, an icy glare – had this fool cultivated his brain into emptiness?

He wanted Tang Youshu to rectify the Talisman Sect’s affairs, yet this idiot was worried about the disciples’ complexions?

However, Cui Xiaoxiao let out an amused laugh before addressing the uninvited pair, “In that case, you two should also get some rest. But before leaving, please compensate our innkeeper for repairing this damaged wall – it won’t be cheap!”

At this moment, the surrounding residents had also been awoken by the thunderous collapse and came out wrapped in their robes to investigate.

However, by the time they reached the broken wall, Cui Xiaoxiao had already slipped away with Yu Ling’er.

After Tang Youshu apologetically promised the innkeeper compensation, when he turned around, he found his master Wei Jie had also vanished without a trace.

Chapter 77 p1

Hearing Cui Xiaoxiao’s words, Qin Lingxiao couldn’t help but lower his gaze towards her.

At this moment, Cui Xiaoxiao was hugging her own knees, her face slightly turned, her cheeks flushed red from the alcohol.

Qin Lingxiao’s thoughts stirred as he leaned down to support her. But when he extended his hand, he ended up caressing Cui Xiaoxiao’s tender cheek – the soft, smooth sensation made him reluctant to withdraw.

His elongated fingers curved hesitantly, lingering on the closed-eyed girl’s cheeks and neck.

Gradually, he cradled Cui Xiaoxiao against his shoulder, lowering his head towards the wine-scented, full lips of the young lady…

Yet at this moment, not far from the inn’s rooftop, a man stood in the dim shadows of a pavilion, his eyes flashing with coldness as he watched the intimate scene of the drunken pair on the roof.

Tang Youshu had accompanied his master here for half the night.

Although it was deep into the night, their sharp eyesight could clearly see what was happening on the rooftop, even without hearing the sounds.

The two of them had come to Luoyi City to investigate Prince Can’s whereabouts.

If it were the previous Wei Jie, his top priority would have been indulging in food, drinks and pleasures with his beloved disciple. As for that rat Prince Can hiding away, as long as he didn’t show his face and cause trouble, he would be an irrelevant character.

But now that Wei Jie’s divine nature had been restored, nothing was more important than cultivating immortality. After reading Tang Youshu’s secret book and hearing about his ultimate fate in the original timeline, he immediately judged that Prince Can, who had usurped his divine position, could not be allowed to remain!

However, Prince Can had faked his death, so his current identity and hiding place were unknown.

So after staying at Guistone Cliff for two days, Wei Jie brought Tang Youshu back to Luoyi City, hoping to find some clues in the place where Prince Can had lived for decades.

Unexpectedly, upon entering the city, they saw Cui Xiaoxiao and the others.

After arriving in the city, the two girls indulged in endless food and drinks. Wei Jie and Tang Youshu couldn’t help but pay attention to them.

Since Prince Can had always wished ill upon Cui Xiaoxiao, they made for excellent bait, so Wei Jie secretly observed them with Tang Youshu to see if anyone would try to approach.

However, after a day of following them, all they saw was the girls wandering through various food stalls across Luoyi City.

Wei Jie coldly watched the two idle girls roaming the streets, unable to fathom why his former self would bother taking on such a lazy disciple as Cui Xiaoxiao just to kill time.

Even if it was a casual acceptance at first out of boredom, there were surely better choices in this world.

Tang Youshu carefully observed his master’s cold expression, seeing no signs of rekindled feelings, which slightly put his mind at ease.

Ever since Cui Xiaoxiao left the mountain, Wei Jie’s mood had been foul almost daily. Not that he took it out on Tang Youshu, but he would silently sit in meditation atop the peak, gazing vacantly into the distant void with an air of displeasure towards all worldly matters.

Tang Youshu had asked if there was anything Wei Jie couldn’t let go of.

But Wei Jie had looked at him like an idiot, countering, “What is there for me to be unable to let go of?”

After such a suffocating, unanswerable conversation, the master and disciple could only remain in dry silence.

At this point, even Tang Youshu started missing the days when Cui Xiaoxiao, Yu Ling’er and the others were around.

But considering the tribulations his master was about to face, Tang Youshu still felt he had done no wrong in dispersing that pair of lovebirds.

In the original timeline, after the tribulation of the Phoenix Valley’s immolation, Wei Jie returned from the Phoenix Secret Realm with a body tempered into impenetrable black scales.

He also brought back a little crow at that time. The usually cold and aloof master had a better temperament during those days after gaining the crow’s companionship, occasionally even personally feeding it pine nuts and hazelnuts.

Back then, due to his infamous reputation and icy disposition, relations with the main Wei Family had become strained.

The elderly Wei Family Matriarch seemed unwilling to let her grandson fall so far, so she secretly met with Wei Jie. However, at this meeting, Wei Jie fell into a mysterious trap that catalyzed his demonic nature, leading him to violently attack the Matriarch.

When Wei Jie’s demonic nature erupted, even ghosts and spirits dared not approach. It was only when Wei Jie was about to personally slay the Matriarch, completely possessed by his demonic side, that the little crow surprisingly revealed its true form as a black phoenix, blocking his lethal strike and awakening him.

It was only then that Tang Youshu realized the little crow Master had brought back was actually such an auspicious creature!

Unfortunately, the phoenix was critically injured from shielding him and on the verge of death. According to reason, the little phoenix should have undergone rebirth by fire, but as an inauspicious black phoenix without divine blessings, it could not be reborn.

Tang Youshu still remembered how expressionless Master looked while cradling that tiny phoenix…

Later, Master buried the little phoenix somewhere, but Tang Youshu didn’t know the location.

It was only after Master disappeared for a long time and returned that he began the process of refining and separating his demonic nature, as if determined to fully sever his dark self. This was also when Qin Lingxiao ambushed him…

Although everything had changed in this lifetime, Tang Youshu boldly speculated that the coming tribulations would likely still involve some form of inner demonic nature.

However, that black phoenix came from the timeless Phoenix Secret Realm. After its death, there would be no reincarnation, so it could no longer shield his master from calamity this time.

Cui Xiaoxiao had now completely taken over Wei Jie’s karmic destiny. If the hidden enemy still sought to catalyze her demonic nature, she would inevitably have to kill her most beloved.

If Wei Jie was still together with Cui Xiaoxiao, Tang Youshu dared not imagine the scenario of Cui Xiaoxiao’s demonic nature erupting and killing Wei Jie.

So Tang Youshu had to disperse the pair of lovebirds before that destiny arrived, removing each other’s vulnerabilities…

However, he never expected the twists of fate to reunite these two people who were never meant to meet again in Luoyi City!

As for Wei Jie, the more he watched Cui Xiaoxiao’s lack of ambition, the more displeased he became.

Look at her, it was late at night when absorbing the spiritual energies of heaven and earth was most effective. If she cultivated in meditation, her progress would surely be doubled!

But what was she doing? She had actually climbed onto the roof to drink wine while exposing herself to the winds!

Wei Jie originally didn’t want to pay attention, but for some reason, watching her solitary figure on the roof, raising a cup to invite the brilliant moon, caused a vague restlessness in his heart.

Yet he couldn’t bring himself to leave either, only coldly observing the slender silhouette, his mind wandering as he thought that she had indeed aided him. According to Tang Youshu, she was actually his grand-disciple.

Since she was his grand-disciple, how could he watch her indulge in such idleness? Once he settled matters with Prince Can, he should bring this unfilial disciple back and properly guide her cultivation…

As he contemplated this, just as he was about to leave, he saw Qin Lingxiao appear, and Cui Xiaoxiao casually invited that traitorous fellow to join her in drinking without any qualms.

The Demon Lord, who had already turned to depart, completely turned back around at this sight.

Tang Youshu, most familiar with his master, saw the flickering flames in Wei Jie’s icy gaze fixed on Qin Lingxiao and quickly advised, “Master, we are currently investigating Prince Can in secret, it would be unwise to reveal ourselves. Qin Lingxiao’s betrayal and annihilation of our ancestors will inevitably face your thunderous punishment. But for now, it’s best we remain calm and still…”

Tang Youshu’s counsel was reasonable, and Wei Jie knew it made sense, yet he continued staring fixedly at the drinking pair on the roof.

But who could have expected that girl Cui Xiaoxiao, usually so whimsical and mischievous, would actually get drunk in the presence of that despicable Qin Lingxiao?

Did her brain belong as a drunken dish for Wei Jie to devour as well?

And sure enough, Qin Lingxiao lived up to his promiscuous reputation, taking advantage of the girl’s addled state to make his lecherous advance…

Seeing this scene, Tang Youshu was also angered, for Cui Xiaoxiao was his closed-door disciple after all. As Cui Xiaoxiao’s master-uncle, Qin Lingxiao was utterly shameless!

Just as Tang Youshu prepared to throw a concealed weapon to stop Qin Lingxiao from violating Cui Xiaoxiao, his usually composed master had already swiftly shot forth like an arrow, heading straight for the pair on the roof.

Qin Lingxiao had already caught a whiff of the maiden’s wine-tinged lips when, just as he was about to press against Cui Xiaoxiao’s mouth, he sensed an incoming fierce surge of inner energy.

This inner energy was like a sharp sword carrying endless coldness, an oppressive force that left one gasping for air – in his life, Qin Lingxiao had only experienced such energy from one person.

His amorous thoughts instantly dispersed as he swiftly evaded to the side.

When Qin Lingxiao looked closely, the attacker was indeed Wei Jie!

He knew Cui Xiaoxiao and Wei Jie had broken off, so it seemed this Wei fellow had taken the regret medicine and come crawling back to Cui Xiaoxiao.

Thinking this, he let out a cold laugh, “I was sharing moonlit drinks with your master by mutual consent. Why do you suddenly intervene? Or do you wish to claim mastery over your own master?”

In the past, Wei Jie would have been angered like a petulant youth by such words, retorting coldly before arguing further.

But for some reason today, Qin Lingxiao felt this man seemed to have undergone an indescribable transformation. The piercing chill in his gaze was like being immersed in the Oblivion River waters of the underworld, bone-chillingly cold.

Moreover, he fixed Qin Lingxiao with a gaze of utter disdain, too lazy to waste words. It was only after Qin Lingxiao’s provocative taunt that Wei Jie’s black sleeves swept out, unleashing a gale-force of inner energy. The manifested qi shield no longer resembled its previous spiked form, but rather a ferocious tiger baring fangs amidst draconic roars as it crashed towards Qin Lingxiao in a raging storm.

Such an aura… in his over two hundred years of life, Qin Lingxiao had only witnessed it from one person…

This oppressive inner energy struck without room for evasion, forcing Qin Lingxiao to brace himself and receive the attack head-on.

Although Qin Lingxiao’s cultivation had improved rapidly lately, he had only expected to be on par with a Wei Jie at the initial Pill Core stage.

But he never imagined that in just a few short days, Wei Jie’s progress had reached an inhuman pace.

The result of this clash was Qin Lingxiao’s pristine white robes, befitting an exiled immortal, being shredded into fluttering shreds by Wei Jie’s draconic tiger force. He was sent hurtling backwards uncontrollably, falling from the tall building only to cough up a mouthful of fresh blood midair!

Unable to muster his inner energy, his skull was surely about to shatter like an egg upon hitting the ground.

At this critical juncture of life and death, a white fox leapt out from the inn, instantly transforming into her human form as she pounced towards Qin Lingxiao.

Yu Ling’er had actually been awake the whole time, unable to sleep soundly seeing Cui Xiaoxiao’s forced smiles.

After being immersed in the mortal world, Yu Ling’er was no longer the naive little fox from Mount Tuyun, having gained some understanding of human affairs.

So she had kept her fox ears perked, listening to Cui Xiaoxiao drinking alone on the roof.

She had originally planned to go chase Qin Lingxiao away when he arrived. But hearing Cui Xiaoxiao invite him to drink, she held back.

Although Qin Lingxiao could be petty at times, his appearance was quite impressive. Yu Ling’er felt among all the men she had seen, only Wei Jie surpassed his handsomeness.

If Cui Xiaoxiao wanted to indulge in some yang supplement to heal her heartache, this vigorous and well-endowed Young Pavilion Lord was not a bad option.

But she never expected Cui Xiaoxiao’s path to healing to encounter such an obstacle. Just as she was about to switch to a new partner, the old one suddenly appeared from who-knows-where and sent Qin Lingxiao plummeting down!

Yu Ling’er had always clearly distinguished friend from foe. Although Qin Lingxiao was no longer an object of her affections, he had still saved her life, truly a benefactor she owed.

Now seeing Qin Lingxiao about to meet a fatal end, Yu Ling’er naturally had to act.

Qin Lingxiao had been staggered by Wei Jie’s inner energy attack, his body scattered like falling leaves. It was only thanks to Yu Ling’er’s qi deflection that he was sent spinning horizontally to crash against a nearby wall instead, finally stabilizing his form.

However, Qin Lingxiao’s earlier attack had also sent the muddle-drunk Cui Xiaoxiao rolling and tumbling down from the roof.

Just as Yu Ling’er rescued her benefactor Qin Lingxiao, she looked up to see Cui Xiaoxiao also falling.

Panicking, she flashed forward with lightfoot steps, but was still a bit too late to catch her.

However, at this critical moment, a black blur flashed by, its long arm sweeping out to cradle the falling girl.

As he channeled his spiritual energy to gently descend with the girl in his arms, Cui Xiaoxiao happened to open her dazed, drunken eyes and sweetly smiled at the handsome man who had appeared in her dreams countless times, “Smelly Jie, why did you only come halfway through the wine? Did you spot a prettier beauty elsewhere to admire instead?”

When Cui Xiaoxiao smiled, her squinted eyes crinkled luminously, their radiance enough to dispel the deepest gloom.

But the man who would usually return her smile did not, only staring at her with an unnaturally cold expression.

Seeing his seeming anger, Cui Xiaoxiao smiled as she reached out, her slender arms encircling his neck as she lightly tapped his nose with a finger, “Why the long face, like a grumpy prawn? Who bullied you? Come, let me avenge you!”

Such actions towards her disciple Jie’er used to be perfectly ordinary, with everyone in the Talisman Sect aware that when deeply drunk, the unruly Sect Patriarch would tease her senior disciple.

But for the Demon Lord Wei Jie, such casual intimacy was akin to knocking on the gates of the Underworld King’s palace.

The closely following Tang Youshu saw Cui Xiaoxiao escalate further, pinching Wei Jie’s cheeks in an attempt to coax a smile from him, and couldn’t help but gasp in fear.

She… she was simply courting death, wasn’t she?

Sure enough, in the next moment, Wei Jie loosened his grip, letting the girl in his arms crash heavily to the ground.

P2

As for Cui Xiaoxiao, not long after leaving the mountain, she saw a pack of foxes appearing behind her.

Leading them was the tearful Yu Ling’er.

The last time Cui Xiaoxiao saw her this utterly devastated was when the old Fox King had passed away. But back then, Tang Youshu had comforted her, so Yu Ling’er hadn’t had a chance to wail in front of Cui Xiaoxiao.

Once Yu Ling’er transformed to her human form and chokingly recounted how Tang Youshu had given her money to drive her away, Cui Xiaoxiao let out a long sigh.

Even if Tang Youshu hadn’t driven Yu Ling’er off, the two of them would likely have struggled to have a good outcome.

If humans and demons were separated by towering mountains, then immortals and demons were divided by an unbridgeable celestial chasm.

Considering Tang Youshu already had over two hundred years of cultivation foundation, plus the demon bead by his side, in this return to two hundred years ago, after assisting his master in regaining divinity, he would likely also achieve immortality himself.

With master and disciple both wholeheartedly pursuing immortality, how could they let romantic entanglements occupy their hearts? A demon like Yu Ling’er would be someone they could easily discard!

However, Cui Xiaoxiao was still touched that Yu Ling’er had fallen out with Tang Youshu over her, reaching out to stroke the little fox’s protruding ears.

She had thought Yu Ling’er always prioritized men above all else, never expecting that at this critical juncture, the little fox would actually place their sisterly bond first!

Such deep friendship moved Cui Xiaoxiao tremendously.

Hearing Cui Xiaoxiao’s praise, Yu Ling’er only drooped her ears dejectedly, expressing regret that she had actually messed things up herself.

Now she really wanted to shamelessly go back to the mountain and make up with Tang Youshu.

Yu Ling’er even asked Cui Xiaoxiao if she wanted to be shameless companions and return together.

Cui Xiaoxiao could only roll her eyes helplessly, dusting off her clothes before continuing forward without looking back.

Yu Ling’er hurried to catch up, asking, “Xiaoxiao, where are you going? Lingshan is your own sect, are you really going to let Wei Jie have it so easily?”

Cui Xiaoxiao waved her small bundle nonchalantly, “It’s not giving it away for free, just returning it to its rightful owner… I don’t have anywhere specific to go. I just want to return to Luoyi City first and eat some delicacies. We left too hastily last time, leaving me with too many lingering cravings and regrets. How about it, want to treat me this time? Once you spend all that money, you’ll have an excuse to go back and ask Lord Tang for more.”

Her words were meant as a joke, but Yu Ling’er’s eyes lit up, finding the idea sensible. She eagerly pulled Cui Xiaoxiao towards Luoyi City.

Since time-traveling to two hundred years ago, Cui Xiaoxiao had mostly been surrounded by crisis after crisis, sometimes traveling day and night.

Now free of all her disciples, unencumbered and idle, wandering and enjoying herself with Yu Ling’er felt like a rare leisure she had never experienced.

As for the other fox tribesmen, they transformed into their beast forms to secretly protect the two girls in the forest.

So this abrupt departure from Lingshan didn’t seem so bad after all.

It was just that when traveling, Cui Xiaoxiao didn’t dwell on idle thoughts. But once they settled down, all sorts of random musings would inevitably arise.

For example, when Cui Xiaoxiao wanted to change clothes and opened her bundle, she discovered the hairpin Wei Jie had bought her tucked inside her clothes.

Cui Xiaoxiao treasured the precious hairpin, not daring to wear it, so she had carefully wrapped it within her clothes in the bundle.

Now seeing the hairpin accidentally fall onto the grass,

Back then, he would smile radiantly as he watched Cui Xiaoxiao twirl in her beautiful dresses, saying he would buy her even more exquisite outfits in the future, befitting the future leader of the Joyous Unity Sect.

Recalling those saccharine sweet memories, Cui Xiaoxiao couldn’t help but let out a wry laugh.

But before her laughter could fully blossom like spring flowers, it was dampened by the tears rolling down her cheeks.

Yu Ling’er came bouncing back after picking a bunch of wild berries. Seeing Cui Xiaoxiao’s furtive tears, she instinctively slowed her steps and sat down beside her.

Noticing the hairpin in Cui Xiaoxiao’s hands, Yu Ling’er suddenly understood, “Xiaoxiao, you’re missing Wei Jie again, aren’t you? Why don’t we just stop being stubborn and go back!”

Cui Xiaoxiao shook her head, putting the hairpin back into her bundle and taking a deep breath.

How could she explain to Yu Ling’er that the Wei Jie she longed for had vanished the moment he was possessed by the spirit stone?

If she went back, she would be as despicable as Qin Lingxiao, a sinner obstructing a deity’s destiny.

But fortunately, there was no void that couldn’t be filled by delicious food and wine.

When the two gluttonous girls returned to Luoyi City for the third time, the sight of the street foods immediately reinvigorated them.

Using the money from Tang Youshu, the two girls ate while taking boxes to go, soon carrying several oily paper packages.

Night had fallen, and not wanting to camp in the wilderness again, the two booked a room at the same inn they previously stayed.

Yu Ling’er had wanted to share Cui Xiaoxiao’s room since she didn’t need a bed and could just curl up on the cushions.

But Cui Xiaoxiao firmly refused, so they had to get two separate rooms, with Cui Xiaoxiao taking the one she stayed in last time.

When the serene moonlight spilled through the window lattices, Cui Xiaoxiao, lying on the comfortable mat, still couldn’t fall asleep. She grabbed a string of small wine jars and cups, along with some preserved meat snacks, and climbed onto the roof.

The moonlight was brilliant, the perfect time for moonlit revelry.

Cui Xiaoxiao took two sips, her ears seeming to catch a man’s laughter saying, “What a beautiful moonlight, perfect for admiring beauty. At least this fine evening is not wasted!”

The moonlight and wine flavors were impeccable, yet there was no beautiful woman to admire under the moon. Only she toasted her own shadow as a third companion, bitterly savoring memories with each shallow sip…

Just as she was about to drink another cup, a large hand gripped her wrist.

Cui Xiaoxiao’s heart tightened as she abruptly looked up to see a tall figure in white robes standing behind her. Her slightly drunken self couldn’t help but exclaim, “Why did you take so long? I’ve been waiting forever!”

The newcomer was momentarily entranced by her coy smile and said in a deep voice, “You… have been waiting for me?”

Cui Xiaoxiao had intended to say yes, waiting to admire his rare beauty under the moonlight.

But the man’s voice was completely different from the carefree, debonair tones in her memory.

She lowered her wine cup and squinted to get a better look, only to realize the one standing before her was… Qin Lingxiao!

Now observing him, she saw only that arrogant, oppressive demeanor, almost as if seeing his equally insufferable master through Qin Lingxiao.

As soon as she recognized Qin Lingxiao, Cui Xiaoxiao immediately withdrew the hand he had gripped and stood up unsteadily, taking a step back as she asked, “What are you doing here too?”

Qin Lingxiao had been momentarily captivated by Cui Xiaoxiao’s smile, but seeing her guarded expression and retreating step, his voice turned icy, “Otherwise? Who did you think it would be?”

Cui Xiaoxiao was taken aback by his question and laughed at herself derisively.

Yes, did she really think that person would join her for moonlit drinking on such an alluring night?

Thinking this, she extended the wine jar to Qin Lingxiao, “Since you’re here, have a drink!”

Cui Xiaoxiao’s unselfconscious, carefree manner was something Qin Lingxiao had never witnessed in other female cultivators.

She seemed to never take grudges or romantic entanglements to heart, her inexplicable nonchalance unconsciously drawing people in.

Earlier, seeing her solitary figure drinking wine under the moonlight, Qin Lingxiao had felt unsettled. Now receiving her invitation, he was almost overwhelmed, taking the wine jar to sit beside Cui Xiaoxiao.

But before he could speak, Cui Xiaoxiao mercilessly cut him off, “Shut up, don’t say or ask anything. I just want someone to drink with me right now!”

Hearing this, Qin Lingxiao’s face flushed with anger – the former leader of the number one sword sect was not to be treated like some drinking companion by a mere girl!

Yet seeing Cui Xiaoxiao’s unshed tears, he held his tongue and silently poured her wine.

After Cui Xiaoxiao had driven him away from Lingshan that day, he had not actually left.

When Cui Xiaoxiao departed the mountain with Yu Ling’er, he had followed discreetly behind them.

During this time, Qin Lingxiao had never slacked in his cultivation.

With Wei Jie and Cui Xiaoxiao’s presence, the Young Pavilion Lord’s sense of crisis remained acute. Through such arduous practice, his lightbody technique had made incredible progress.

Since he was also Wei Jie’s discipline, he was able to approach them closely while concealing his aura, going unnoticed.

He had also overheard Cui Xiaoxiao and Yu Ling’er’s tearful accounts.

Although unclear on why Wei Jie had suddenly turned against her, it was clear Cui Xiaoxiao had broken off from Wei Jie and been driven from Lingshan.

Hearing this, Qin Lingxiao’s heart leapt with joy – if Cui Xiaoxiao recognized Wei Jie’s sinister, icy nature and was no longer infatuated with him, that would be for the best!

So when Cui Xiaoxiao came to Luoyi City, Qin Lingxiao followed and revealed himself to join her in drinking.

Cui Xiaoxiao was drinking Wei Jie’s favorite Luoyi vintage, the flavor rich and potent.

Before Qin Lingxiao’s arrival, she had already downed two small jars. After he accompanied her for another jar, the alcohol started to take effect and her eyes could no longer stay open.

Resting her head on her knees, she said softly, “Hey, I can’t walk anymore. Help me back to my room.”

Chapter 76

This warm sensation gave rise to endless reveries.

Cui Xiaoxiao hoped Wei Jie would intertwine his fingers with hers as usual, swinging their joined hands while flashing his white canine teeth and teasing, “I was just pretending to act aloof to irk you. Were you scared…?”

But this time, before she could even grasp his hand firmly, his powerful arm violently brushed her aside.

Wei Jie finally turned to look at her directly, his tone chillingly indifferent, “Tang Youshu has informed me of your origins. You have endured tribulations on my behalf until now, which was arduous. But there’s no need for you to continue acting as my substitute. Your master will arrange a suitable disposition for you going forward…”

Cui Xiaoxiao gripped her empty palm and laughed bitterly, “A disposition? So you master and disciple think you’ve used me enough and can simply discard me like worn shoes, leaving me by the wayside?”

Wei Jie paused, for after hearing Tang Youshu’s account, he realized the first thought that had flashed through his mind in his previous life’s arrangements was: How could he have taken advantage of and deceived Xiaoxiao like this?

Of course, such an unconscionable thought was fleeting. Wei Jie truly felt his former self, so swayed by a mere girl, was utterly useless.

Those undertaking great deeds should not be bound by trivial matters. Being consumed by romantic entanglements would only lead to shortsightedness and pettiness.

No wonder even Tang Youshu couldn’t stand it and devised a way to sever those emotional ties for him.

Yet Wei Jie was clearly indebted to this girl. Seeing Cui Xiaoxiao’s seemingly swollen, tearful eyes, he fell silent for a long while before saying, “You should be clear that I am your Patriarch’s master! How should I treat you? Must I coddle you like a child every day? Since you have walked the path of immortal cultivation, you should understand your ultimate goal! If you wish to engage in romance, you can leave and establish your own Sect to indulge your desires! Don’t waste time fishing for wood at Ghost Stone Cliff. But if you are determined to cultivate immortality, then diligently practice under me. Your Master Tang Youshu will help you ascend swiftly!”

The first half of his words were like how Cui Xiaoxiao used to scold Wei Jie angrily. But what was that nonsense in the second half? Was that supposed to be a reward for her?

Thinking about it, Wei Jie used to have such a good temperament, able to continue doting on her even after hearing such dismissive words.

Cui Xiaoxiao knew about karmic cycles, but she never expected this cycle to manifest between her and Wei Jie so swiftly.

Wei Jie hadn’t lost his memories – he clearly remembered everything about their past.

But now his heart seemed to only harbor resentment towards Cui Xiaoxiao, completely devoid of any romantic affections.

Tang Youshu also gently advised from the side, “Xiaoxiao, why insist on this… Master’s destiny was never meant to include romantic entanglements. You should listen to him and focus on cultivating your own immortal path…”

Cui Xiaoxiao laughed at herself bitterly. So he had no romantic destiny!

Did that mean she, born into the wrong era, was now an existence that shouldn’t be before Wei Jie’s eyes?

But she wouldn’t give these deceitful master and disciple the satisfaction!

Cui Xiaoxiao, being an ordinary mortal, only strove for immortal cultivation in order to not disappoint her teacher Tang Youshu’s guidance.

If following her true nature, she would rather live a carefree life in the mortal realm, akin to an immortal’s existence, than share eternity with heaven and earth.

This master and disciple pair had thoroughly used her, and the cheap compensation Wei Jie offered was cultivating under him.

If she really accepted, Cui Xiaoxiao would look down on herself. They could find some other fool to try and appease with such charity scraps.

Life was short and bitter, why should she torture herself daily seeing his icy countenance?

In that case, it was better for their green hills and rivers to never cross paths again.

But before parting, there were still some words she needed to say to a person she couldn’t let go.

Thinking of this, Cui Xiaoxiao reached out to touch Wei Jie’s face. Wei Jie squinted with distaste and immediately moved to brush her hand away.

However, Cui Xiaoxiao glared at him with an equally icy gaze and said coldly, “The tribulations I endured on your behalf are enough for you to be reborn several lifetimes. Until you ascend and glorify your ancestors, I am akin to the parents of your rebirth! If you have even a shred of conscience, you will endure this for now! I only wish to bid farewell to the past Wei Jie, it has nothing to do with you, Demon Lord. So keep your mouth shut and don’t interfere!”

Such an outrageous, domineering manner of embracing a man, yet speaking with such justifiable confidence, could indeed cow even deities and demons!

For a moment, Wei Jie was taken aback, only glaring frigidly as the petite girl gently caressed his face.

Seeing he didn’t avoid her, Cui Xiaoxiao finally leaned her face contentedly against his embrace.

This embrace still carried her familiar scent, but the steady heartbeat she felt through his clothes no longer danced in tune with hers…

If she had known this embrace would also become a luxury, Cui Xiaoxiao wouldn’t have repeatedly pushed away that mischievous man flashing his canine teeth with his unrestrained, bright laughter…

Thinking of this, she ignored Wei Jie’s resistance and tightly hugged his rigid waist.

Burying her face in his embrace and closing her eyes, Cui Xiaoxiao said softly, “Jie’er, I’m leaving. Although I knew there would be a day we would part, I never imagined it would come so swiftly… I wasn’t a good master, always scolding you and never teaching you any skills. I hope that when you occasionally think of me in the future, you’ll remember me fondly. After all, we still shared a master-disciple bond, didn’t we? Once you regain your divine status, your temperament will likely be far crustier than before. But whether human or deity, one still needs friends. If all affections are severed, what’s the point of becoming an immortal? From now on, leave a path for yourself and others, don’t narrow your road. Among your many former disciples, the only truly capable one was Lord Tang… Treat him well, don’t be so quick to physically discipline. Even the best disciples will become rebellious like Qin Lingxiao if beaten too much… Alright, I won’t say more. From here, you and I shall part ways. I hope… we never cross paths again in this lifetime!”

As she said these words, Cui Xiaoxiao smiled, but her voice choked with sobs as tears like broken pearl strands rolled down her cheeks, dampening the front of Wei Jie’s robe.

The dampened area felt like scalding hot water, suddenly causing an unbearable tightness in Wei Jie’s chest!

Just as Wei Jie could no longer endure and wanted to forcefully push away the clinging girl, Cui Xiaoxiao suddenly released her grip first. Swinging her long ponytail, she raised her arms in a grand gesture, turning to stride away down the mountain without looking back.

She left with such nonchalance, only carrying her usual bundle, not even taking the Heaven-Smiting(Defiance) Sword.

It seemed she had truly let go, completely severing all ties with Wei Jie.

Tang Youshu had listened to Cui Xiaoxiao’s words, especially her advice for Wei Jie not to casually beat his disciples, leaving an unpleasant feeling in his heart.

Cui Xiaoxiao must have seen his swollen cheek when emerging from the study and guessed the Demon Lord Wei Jie had lashed out at him, hence the reminder.

Although this girl had been a street hustler, always lying with an unwavering expression, she possessed a rare open-mindedness among ordinary mortals.

At this moment, Tang Youshu felt ashamed, feeling that Cui Xiaoxiao’s magnanimity was truly the bearing of a great master…

Yu Ling’er watched tearfully as Cui Xiaoxiao bid farewell to Wei Jie.

Although unclear on the details, she could roughly see that Tang Youshu and Wei Jie had ganged up to bully Cui Xiaoxiao, actually driving the mountain’s leader away from Lingshan!

Yu Ling’er was well aware it had always been that lecherous Wei Jie pursuing Cui Xiaoxiao.

Now that Wei Jie had seduced Cui Xiaoxiao, he was using some bullshit excuse about immortal cultivation forbidding desires to dump her?

Bullshit! When had their Sect ever been so restrained?

Seeing Cui Xiaoxiao leave without even her sword, Yu Ling’er couldn’t help but worry. She tugged on Tang Youshu’s sleeve and said, “Why didn’t you stop Xiaoxiao and persuade Wei Jie further? Is a little argument really reason enough for them to separate?”

Tang Youshu looked at Ling’er with mixed feelings and said softly, “They were never fated to be together. Xiaoxiao’s departure is better for everyone.”

Hearing this, Yu Ling’er’s face flushed red with anger. She could only threaten Tang Youshu, “If you’re not going to stop Xiaoxiao, then I’m leaving too!”

Ling’er was used to Tang Youshu’s usual obedient compliance with her wishes.

Tang Youshu had always been gentle and obliging, not wanting to anger her!

She thought using this killer move would surely make Tang Youshu hurry to stop Cui Xiaoxiao.

But to her surprise, this lifeless scholar actually pondered for a moment before nodding and taking out a money pouch, handing it to Yu Ling’er.

Yu Ling’er was dumbfounded, unable to help asking what this was for.

Yet Tang Youshu calmly stated as if it were natural, “If you’re leaving the mountain, you’ll definitely need money to spend. This pouch has broken silver and banknotes. Use it frugally and pay attention to negotiate prices. It should be enough for a period of time.”

Yu Ling’er’s foxy, coquettish eyes were about to pop out. She had only meant to threaten Tang Youshu, not actually leave.

But the usually meek scholar was now so steadfast, unhesitatingly handing her a money pouch as sendoff!

For a moment, the fox’s shrill cries echoed through the valleys, “Tang Youshu! How dare you treat me like this! Is this because I took the initiative to kiss you in the woods the other day, so you’re looking down on me now?”

The fox tribesmen hidden in the forests heard this and all perked up their fox ears – Oh my, their fox princess had truly grown up and learned to use her charm! They had completely missed this precious moment of maturation!

Although Tang Youshu possessed the wisdom of two hundred years, facing this unconventional and unrestrained little vixen still gave him a headache.

In desperation, he hurriedly took off his jade pendants and handed them over too, massaging his temples as he gazed at the crying Yu Ling’er. Finally, he could only sigh softly, “Your taste in men is problematic. You should choose someone more steadfast next time…”

Only he knew that Yu Ling’er truly didn’t know how to choose men.

Whether it was her infatuation with the indifferent Wei Jie in her past life, or her current feelings for Qin Lingxiao and himself in this life, none of them were good matches.

His and Master’s fates were still undecided. If Yu Ling’er remained at Guistone(Ghost Stone) Cliff, he feared she might tragically repeat her past life’s demise. So it might not be bad for Yu Ling’er to leave now.

But to Yu Ling’er, it seemed Tang Youshu really was kicking her out!

She had thought Tang Youshu was different from other fickle men, yet he too was a wicked bully towards women!

At this point, Yu Ling’er didn’t need to feel sad for Cui Xiaoxiao anymore as her own heart shattered completely. Sobbing loudly, she could no longer maintain her human form and fled down the mountain, swishing her snowy white tail behind her.