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  • They All Want to Be My Female Lead v2 c90

    Chapter 90: Borrowing Too Much

    During lunch break, Yan Zhen discreetly made his way to Instructor Yu Xuan’s private office. He was there to borrow money.

    Asking for a loan, especially when one was truly strapped for cash, could be a blow to one’s pride. However, for Yan Zhen, this was simply a matter of following the script. He felt no shame.

    Upon hearing his request, Instructor Yu Xuan smiled gently, as if she had been expecting this. She retrieved ten crystal cards from her storage ring and placed them before him.

    “This is practically all my savings, Yan Zhen. Ten million crystal coins in total. Is that enough? If not, I have some valuable items I can pawn.”

    Ten million?! Yan Zhen’s eyes widened in shock.

    In the script, she had only lent him a hundred thousand, just enough to cover one batch of ingredients. He had been incredibly grateful. Why was she offering him ten million now?

    Right, for some inexplicable reason, she had developed feelings for him. Their current relationship was far more intimate than the typical student-teacher dynamic described in the script. They were practically on the verge of… that. But to lend him almost all her savings… it was incredibly touching! Where could he find such a wonderful instructor?

    No, I can’t give in! The protagonist shouldn’t be swayed by money!

    “Instructor, I don’t need that much. Besides, you have your own expenses. I’ll just take a hundred thousand.”

    “Are you sure a hundred thousand is enough?” She suspected he needed the money to purchase alchemy ingredients. “Why don’t you take a million for now? If you need more, just let me know.”

    She pressed one of the crystal cards into his hand, her smile as warm and comforting as spring rain.

    His heart swelled with gratitude. He abandoned his pretense of reluctance. “Thank you, Instructor. I’ll pay you back as soon as possible.”

    “Silly, you don’t need to pay me back.” She chuckled. “You won first place in both monthly assessments and even claimed the top spot on the Nine Star Rank. I received a generous bonus, and you brought me a lot of recognition.”

    “That’s what you deserve, Instructor.” He met her gaze, his expression serious. “I know you care about me, but we should be clear about money matters. Otherwise, I might become greedy and take advantage of your kindness.”

    “That’s not necessarily a bad thing.” She lowered her voice, her cheeks flushing slightly. “If you’re willing, I can take care of you from now on.”

    Yan Zhen’s face burned crimson, the heat spreading to his ears. His entire head felt like it was on fire.

    Seeing his reaction, she giggled, her eyes crinkling at the corners.

    This isn’t in the script! he thought frantically. Wasn’t her character supposed to be gentle, virtuous, and elegant? Why is she so good at flirting?!

    He was about to make a hasty retreat, clutching the crystal card, when Yan Meng’er, Yan Ruyu, and Mi Xue’er appeared, followed by Xiao Xinyan, who still seemed to consider herself above associating with “mere vases.”

    “Cousin! Found you~”

    “See? I told you Little Brother Yan Zhen would be here enjoying Instructor Yu Xuan’s air conditioning.”

    He wasn’t surprised to see them. He greeted them awkwardly.

    It wasn’t feigned awkwardness. It was genuine.

    Mi Xue’er approached him, her hand resting on his shoulder as if to say, “Gotcha!” She noticed the lingering blush on his face. “Little Brother Yan Zhen, your face is so red! Are you alright?”

    Yan Meng’er joined them, peering at his face. “It’s hot out. You might be getting heatstroke. Be careful, Cousin.”

    He rolled his eyes. “Heatstroke? I cultivate the Fire Mystic Power!”

    His exasperated retort made them laugh.

    “Yan Zhen, is that Instructor Yu Xuan’s…?” Yan Ruyu’s sharp eyes zeroed in on the crystal card in his hand. “Did you run out of allowance?”

    He quickly hid the card behind his back, feigning guilt. “There’s a reason for this.”

    “There’s no reason to borrow from Instructor Yu Xuan…” Mindful of his pride, she didn’t say the word “money” directly, but her disapproval was clear. “I have some extra. How much do you need?”

    “It’s fine. You don’t have much yourself.”

    “Just tell me!”

    “Ahem, the more the better.”

    “You… what do you need so much money for?” She eyed him suspiciously, then retrieved a crystal card from her storage ring. “I have about five hundred thousand left. You can have half.”

    He rubbed his cheek. “I couldn’t possibly…”

    “Take it!” She pressed the card into his hand.

    He accepted it, storing it in his storage ring.

    — Two down, two to go.

    “Cousin, are you short on money? Why didn’t you tell me?” Yan Meng’er proudly presented a piggy bank, shaking it vigorously. It was filled with crystal cards. “I’ve saved up a lot! If you need it, you can have it all! Five hundred thousand!”

    Yan Zhen stared at her in disbelief. “Where did you get so much money, Meng’er?”

    In the script, she had only given him fifty thousand, which was already all her allowance, excluding her food expenses. She usually spent all her money shopping with Mi Xue’er. She was practically a shopaholic.

    When did she become wealthier than her cousin? And where did she get a piggy bank? She saved money? That was a joke!

    “Heehee, didn’t I tell you, Cousin? I bet all my allowance on your victory in those three duels! And I won a lot!”

    He was surprised. He had thought she was just exaggerating. He hadn’t realized she had actually bet everything.

    — Actually, it was more than that.

    Using her knowledge from her previous life, Yan Meng’er had also placed bets on several other Nine Star Rank duels, winning a fortune. The bookmakers dreaded seeing her, fearing she would bankrupt them.

    “Me too, me too! I won a lot too, Little Brother Yan Zhen! You can have it all! It’s free money anyway! A million!”

    “…”

    He was speechless. Their contributions were supposed to be meager, barely enough to make a dent in his expenses, totaling maybe a hundred or two hundred thousand at most. How were they all offering him so much?

    As he pondered this, Xiao Xinyan, who had been sitting quietly, spoke up, her voice soft and hesitant. “I… I have about a hundred thousand left. If you don’t mind taking such a small amount, you can have it.”

    She offered him a crystal card, her eyes downcast, as if begging him to accept it.

    He didn’t know how to react. He appreciated her offer, but this scene wasn’t supposed to involve Miss High-and-Mighty!

    Instructor Yu Xuan had given him a million, Mi Xue’er a million, Yan Meng’er five hundred thousand, Yan Ruyu over two hundred thousand, and now Xiao Xinyan was offering a hundred thousand. That was almost three million! Enough to cover his expenses for nearly a year! This was hardly a “drop in the bucket”!

    Why was even this minor plot point deviating from the script?

    Well, it didn’t matter. He didn’t need the money anyway. He was already wealthy.

    He would just borrow a small sum from his Beautiful Sect Master later to complete this scene.

    — This is so frustrating! I’m loaded, but I have to pretend to be broke and borrow money from girls! This is humiliating! If the Special Trump Card I get for this mission is useless, I’m going to complain to the system!

    He pocketed the crystal cards and quickly left the office.

  • They All Want to Be My Female Lead v2 c89

    Chapter 89: Yan Zhen Borrows Money

    To celebrate Yan Zhen’s recovery and his victory as the top-ranked student, Instructor Yu Xuan prepared a feast, urging him to eat heartily.

    He hadn’t eaten in two days, confined to his bed. However, strangely, he didn’t feel hungry. A pleasant warmth lingered in his stomach, a steady flow of energy coursing through him.

    He vaguely recalled entering the Crystal Stone Space while unconscious. Perhaps his Beautiful Sect Master had fed him some miraculous medicine? His memory was hazy.

    After dinner, he enjoyed a relaxing bath and returned to his room. Activating his Star Shifting Fire Seal, he appeared before the altar. To his surprise, his Beautiful Sect Master wasn’t meditating. Instead, she was gazing at a round mirror.

    The round mirror was a Mystic Tool for recording images. He had learned this technique as well. The “storage capacity” was linked to one’s Spiritual Power. With his current level, he could only store a few short videos.

    Sensing his arrival, Chen Xi calmly waved her sleeve, dismissing the mirror.

    “Have you fully recovered, Zhen’er?”

    “Yes, Master!”

    “Come closer. Let me have a look at you.”

    “…”

    He blushed, shuffling closer to her.

    She examined him from head to toe, her gaze lingering on his bruises. Finally, she spoke. “You might have entered the initial stage of Body Tempering, Zhen’er, but repeatedly using the Triple Burst has taken a toll on your body. Don’t be so reckless in the future.”

    He nodded vigorously.

    “You consumed a significant amount of Mid-Grade Small Origin Pills to reach the Seventh Star, Zhen’er. There’s a buildup of medicinal residue and impurities in your body. You need to use your Extreme Flame to refine them completely, or it could lead to problems later on. Mid-Grade pills only meet the minimum standard for consumption. They contain impurities and their medicinal properties aren’t perfectly balanced. They’re not suitable for frequent consumption. From now on, you should only consume High-Grade pills, understand?”

    He continued nodding.

    Pills were categorized into five grades: Inferior, Low, Mid, High, and Supreme.

    Inferior pills were practically useless, barely effective and unlikely to cause any harm. Low-Grade pills contained too many impurities, their toxicity potentially outweighing their medicinal benefits. Consuming them was not recommended unless absolutely necessary. Only Mid-Grade pills met the minimum standard for safe consumption. High-Grade pills were even better, containing very few impurities and boasting well-balanced medicinal properties. Supreme Grade pills, of course, were the best, but incredibly rare. Only high-ranking Mystic Refiners had a chance of creating them, and even then, only when refining lower-tier pills.

    Therefore, High-Grade pills were further categorized into nine sub-grades, from High-Grade 1 to High-Grade 9.

    His Beautiful Sect Master, being a perfectionist, consistently produced pills of High-Grade 9 or Supreme Grade quality.

    “Let’s focus on your alchemy training for a while. It will not only improve your control over Mystic Power and Spiritual Power, but selling the pills you refine will also replenish your funds. You’re running low on savings, aren’t you, Zhen’er?”

    He blinked, his nodding becoming stiff and hesitant.

    “Uh… yes, pretty much.”

    “Then you need to find a way to earn some money. Mystic Refining is quite costly in the early stages.”

    “…”

    Thanks to his Spiritual Perception, he was now more attuned to the subtle changes during the pill refining process, resulting in a noticeable improvement in the quality of his pills.

    He could now consistently produce Mid-Grade Small Origin Pills, placing him among the top tier of the First Rank Mystic Refiners.

    He spent the entire night refining pills before emerging from the Crystal Stone Space, stretching luxuriously.

    Despite having slept for two days and staying up all night, he didn’t feel tired.

    After breakfast, he headed to the academy.

    …

    As he entered the Advanced Class 1 classroom, he noticed a shift in his classmates’ gazes. Some held admiration, others a hint of fear, particularly those who belonged to Xiao Mie’s faction.

    “Yan Zhen.”

    Xiao Mie was also present, though he didn’t look well. His body was wrapped in bandages, and he was using a cane to walk, as if he had been in a serious accident. He stared at Yan Zhen in surprise. “Why do you look perfectly fine? Have your injuries already healed?”

    “Yeah, I took some pills, slept for a couple of days, and I’m good as new. What else would I do?” Yan Zhen eyed him curiously. “Why are you still in such a sorry state?”

    “…Did you take a Tier 3 Healing Pill?”

    “I don’t know. I just woke up feeling fine. Instructor Yu Xuan took care of me.”

    Xiao Mie felt a pang of jealousy. Every male student in the academy idolized Instructor Yu Xuan. He was no exception. That Yan Zhen brat was actually enjoying her personal care, simply because he was her student! It was infuriating!

    He wasn’t the only one. The other male students were also staring at Yan Zhen with envy, the air thick with jealousy.

    “Is there something you need, Xiao Mie?”

    “I’m here to tell you that you only won once. Before we graduate, I’ll request another duel with you. I hope you’ll reach the Mystic Scholar realm soon.”

    “I wouldn’t recommend it. If I could beat you once, I can beat you again.”

    “Hmph, I lost because of my inferior physique and endurance. I’ll work on those weaknesses. Beating me again won’t be so easy.”

    “By the time you’ve addressed your weaknesses, I’ll be miles ahead of you. I told you, stop suppressing your cultivation!”

    Yan Zhen rolled his eyes, unwilling to waste his breath on this stubborn fool.

    Xiao Xinyan, sitting in a corner, watched their exchange, a strange sense of satisfaction blooming within her.

    …

    After school, Yan Zhen went to the Gold and Jade Chamber of Commerce to purchase another batch of ingredients. As a top student, he was entitled to free supplies.

    Although the ingredients themselves weren’t expensive, he needed a large quantity. This single purchase was worth nearly a hundred thousand crystal coins.

    At his current rate of consumption, he would need to restock every half month. For a student, this was a significant expense.

    He couldn’t keep up with the costs. Pill refining wasn’t a guaranteed success. The slightest distraction could ruin an entire batch.

    According to the script, he would soon find himself struggling financially. He would first borrow money from Instructor Yu Xuan, then receive aid from the three girls. However, these would only be temporary solutions. In the end, his Beautiful Sect Master would come to his rescue.

    As a Saint Rank Mystic Refiner, she was practically a walking treasury, overflowing with wealth. She could casually toss him millions of crystal coins without batting an eye!

    Of course, there was no such thing as a free lunch.

    The script described it like this:

    “Master, as a Saint Rank Mystic Refiner, you must have quite a fortune, right? Could you perhaps… lend your disciple a small sum?”

    “You cheeky brat! You dare to scheme against your own master? How bold! Ahem, well, I do have some savings, but I won’t give them to you for free.”

    “I’m willing to do anything for you, Master! I’ll go through fire and water for you!”

    And so, Yan Zhen became her personal servant for a month.

    He served her tea, massaged her shoulders, baked her pastries, brewed her wine, played board games with her (and got scolded for being terrible), and even collected storybooks for her, claiming she wanted to learn about the local culture.

    He was at her beck and call, less a servant and more a devoted lackey.

    This was when he first entered the Fire Refining Starry Sky in the script, marking the beginning of their true relationship. She gradually let down her guard, revealing her true self to him.

    In this life, he didn’t need to borrow money from Instructor Yu Xuan, rely on the three girls’ generosity, or beg his Beautiful Sect Master for assistance. However, he still needed to follow the script.

  • It turns out, they are the protagonists 126 p2

    P2

    Perhaps the next one would be a second-grade, or even a first-grade…?

    It was like gambling, always believing the next draw would be the winning one, but never actually winning.

    But at least his gambling didn’t cost anything.

    He soon made another discovery. The techniques he had discarded, they reappeared shortly after, falling into the hands of other disciples.

    He tested his theory several times, then he was certain.

    “So, the techniques I discard, they don’t disappear immediately. They continue to circulate for a while…?”

    He watched as the disciples obtained the techniques he had discarded.

    After browsing for a while longer, he was about to choose a suitable third-grade technique and leave when he felt a cold gaze upon him.

    He turned to see Ye Yu.

    What a coincidence… He smiled and waved.

    But Ye Yu interpreted his gesture as mocking and his eyes narrowed, his anger flaring.

    He quickly suppressed his emotions.

    He was here to obtain a technique. Starting a conflict wouldn’t be wise. He needed to focus on improving his strength!

    He ignored Mu Zhi’an, focusing his spiritual sense, searching for valuable techniques.

    He suddenly felt something, his eyes snapping open as he reached for a scroll hovering in the air.

    He stared at the scroll in his hand, his eyes widening with excitement.

    It was a second-grade technique: the Lone Star Sword!

    He had only been here for a short while, and he had already found a second-grade technique! This was the power of great destiny!

    He felt a surge of excitement, then hesitation.

    He was excited about the technique, but he had only just arrived. Perhaps there were even better techniques…

    Another technique drifted past him, and he reached for it.

    But this time, it was like a phantom, slipping through his fingers.

    “What’s going on…?” He frowned, then he noticed a commotion nearby.

    Mu Zhi’an had also caught a technique, but he glanced at it, then casually tossed it aside, his gaze lingering on Ye Yu’s second-grade technique, his expression filled with disdain.

    He looked away, then reached out, catching another technique.

    Ye Yu froze, his eyes widening with realization. “So, you can only hold one technique at a time. You have to discard it before you can get another one…”

    He quickly discarded the Lone Star Sword.

    Another technique drifted past him, and he reached for it.

    But it was like a mirage, visible but untouchable, as if it wasn’t truly there…

    What’s happening…?

    He turned to look at Mu Zhi’an, who had easily caught another technique.

    A fourth-grade technique.

    So the higher the grade, the harder it is to obtain…?

    He’s stuck with those low-grade techniques… He scoffed inwardly, ignoring Mu Zhi’an, focusing on the techniques appearing and disappearing around them.

    He managed to catch a few more, but they were all fourth or fifth-grade. Even third-grade techniques were rare.

    “Was that second-grade technique truly that rare…?”

    His expression darkened as he realized the value of the technique he had discarded.

    The techniques were attracted by his destiny. The stronger his destiny, the more likely he was to attract high-grade techniques.

    The Lone Star Sword… it was probably the best he could hope for with his current destiny.

    And he had thrown it away…

    He glared at Mu Zhi’an, his resentment growing.

    If not for him, he wouldn’t have discarded the technique.

    But at least Mu Zhi’an’s destiny couldn’t attract high-grade techniques either…

    As he thought this, he saw Mu Zhi’an reach out and catch another technique.

    It was the Lone Star Sword!

    Mu Zhi’an looked at the technique in his hand, a satisfied smile playing on his lips.

    A second-grade technique… it’s enough.

    One had to be content.

    Ye Yu froze, staring at him, a thought flashing in his mind: He was tricking me?!

    It was clear that second-grade techniques were rare within the library.

    He had believed his great destiny would attract even better techniques, but it seemed even a Chosen One struggled to find second-grade techniques, let alone first-grade…

    And he had thrown away the Lone Star Sword… and it had fallen into Mu Zhi’an’s hands?!

    And why was Mu Zhi’an able to catch every technique so precisely…? He had never missed.

    He glared at the jade slip in Mu Zhi’an’s hand, his heart filled with a mixture of confusion and rage.

    No one in this realm could guarantee they would catch every technique.

    No one!

    Except for Mu Zhi’an.

    That despicable scoundrel… he was clearly cheating…

    He was about to stop him as he turned to leave, but a commotion erupted near the entrance.

    The disciples turned to look and saw two women approaching.

    The leader wore a loose black robe, her ample bosom straining against the fabric, her slender waist accentuated by a ribbon, her long, shapely legs visible beneath her robe, her figure alluring.

    She smiled gently, her gaze sweeping over the disciples.

    It was Yan Ruyu, the master of the library.

    Beside her walked another woman, her golden dress a symbol of wealth and status. She carried herself with an elegance that belied the ostentatious attire, two strands of hair framing her delicate face.

    Her golden hair ornaments shimmered with each step, emphasizing her noble bearing.

    Her smile was warm and welcoming.

    It was Yong Ning, the Eldest Princess of the Great Qian Dynasty!

    Ye Yu’s gaze was drawn to her, and after a moment, a thought flashed in his mind.

    The master of the library rarely left her domain. Could it be that she was here because she had discovered Mu Zhi’an’s cheating…?

    Or perhaps they were here for another reason… The Third Prince had just caused a scene at the Garden of Heavenly Harmony. Perhaps she was here to address the issue?

    He watched as they approached Mu Zhi’an, a flicker of hope in his eyes.

    If he was truly cheating, perhaps he could reclaim the Lone Star Sword…

  • It turns out, they are the protagonists 126 p1

    Chapter 126: This Woman Is Destined for Me! p1

    The Third Prince sat in his pavilion, his tea cold and untouched.

    His expression was stormy.

    It was understandable. After all, he had just suffered a humiliating defeat.

    One million spirit stones!

    Even for a prince, producing such a sum was a challenge.

    But because of his oath and his pride, he had to pay, even if it meant swallowing his pride.

    And if word of this incident spread, he would become a laughingstock within the imperial court.

    Even within the Two Polarities Sect, rumors of him falsely accusing a fellow disciple were already circulating.

    Bai Ruoxi was clearly a demonic cultivator…

    He remembered the events of the previous day, Mu Zhi’an’s smug expression as he had manipulated the situation, and his anger surged, his grip tightening on his teacup.

    Crack.

    A thin crack appeared on the cup’s surface, then it shattered in his hand, tea spilling onto the floor.

    He looked up at a disciple who had just entered, his voice cold. “What is it?”

    Still trying to act tough? The disciple scoffed inwardly, but his voice remained respectful. “Your Highness, we can recall the letter we sent to the palace.”

    The Third Prince frowned.

    He had written a letter after returning, instructing his confidant to prepare one million spirit stones.

    But now this disciple was saying he could recall the letter…?

    “What do you mean?” he asked, his voice sharp.

    “The Eldest Princess left the palace a few days ago. She arrived at the Two Polarities Sect this morning, and it seems she’s aware of what happened yesterday…”

    His anger evaporated, replaced by a wave of panic. “My sister is here…?” he murmured, his voice filled with disbelief.

    The Eldest Princess had close relationships with many in the Two Polarities Sect. She was even friends with the master of the library, sharing her love of books. She often visited Yan Ruyu.

    She was probably here to see her.

    And with her status, she would surely have one million spirit stones.

    If he asked her for help, he could avoid the gossip back home.

    She wouldn’t spread rumors…

    But would she lend him the money?

    He was the son of a consort, while she was the Empress’s daughter.

    Their relationship was distant.

    If he asked her, he would surely be scolded…

    He frowned. “Where is she?”

    “Someone saw her going to the library,” the disciple replied.

    He hesitated, then sighed. “Fine. I’ll go to the library.”

    “Your Highness, the vice peak lord instructed me to tell you: avoid any further conflicts with Mu Zhi’an,” the disciple said as he stood up.

    He froze, looking at the disciple. “The vice peak lord told you that?”

    The disciple nodded, and his expression darkened.

    Mu Zhi’an was clearly harboring a demonic cultivator, yet he was supposed to tolerate it…?

    It was clear that his uncle, because of Ling Long, was also afraid.

    Even the other peak lords were…

    It was understandable. Mu Zhi’an had Ling Long’s backing.

    But a demonic cultivator was a demonic cultivator. If Bai Ruoxi was exposed, even Ling Long couldn’t deny it, could she?

    He clenched his fists, brushing the tea from his sleeve, then he stormed out of the pavilion.

    After completing the necessary procedures, Mu Zhi’an was led to the top floor of the library, where he found Yan Ruyu waiting for him.

    She wore a loose black robe, her hair flowing freely.

    She didn’t seem particularly striking at first glance, but he, a seasoned connoisseur of beauty, could imagine the alluring curves hidden beneath her robe.

    “Greetings, Master Yan,” he said, bowing.

    She looked up at him, smiling. “Have a seat.”

    Her voice was gentle, her demeanor humble despite her status, her aura intelligent and mature, like a teacher’s. She studied him, his silence and apparent nervousness… amusing…

    “Relax. You’re close to Bai Ruoxi, aren’t you? Just talk to me like you would talk to her,” she said, her voice soothing.

    I usually end up in bed with Ruoxi… He maintained his respectful demeanor. “You’re my senior, Master Yan. I have to show you respect…”

    He paused, then added, his voice filled with mock sincerity, “But I do feel relaxed talking to you. It’s like talking to my neighbor’s older sister…”

    He sighed dramatically, as if truly enamored…

    She smiled, seemingly pleased by his words. She poured him a cup of tea. “There was quite a commotion at the Garden of Heavenly Harmony yesterday.”

    He sipped his tea, sighing. “I just wanted to be a good person, Master Yan, but trouble always seems to find me…”

    She nodded. “Conflicts between disciples are inevitable. But within the sect, we don’t resort to violence…”

    She paused, then asked, “Do you have a preferred peak for the inner disciple selections?”

    He chuckled, his voice filled with mock humility. “You flatter me, Master Yan. With my limited talent, I’ll be grateful to be chosen at all. I wouldn’t dare to choose…”

    She smiled faintly. “Besides the nine peaks, the library and the Enforcement Hall can also choose inner disciples.”

    Her words carried a subtle implication…

    “But I heard you haven’t actively recruited an inner disciple in a long time,” he said, his voice laced with surprise.

    The master of the library was known for her indifference towards the sect tournament and disciple cultivation. While the other peaks had been fighting over candidates for years, she had remained aloof…

    But now she was interested in recruiting an inner disciple?

    “I might not have recruited actively in the past, but that doesn’t mean I’m not interested now,” she replied, her posture straight, her smile gentle.

    “Junior Sister Lan and I are close. I trust her judgment.”

    All signs pointed to Mu Zhi’an possessing secrets… secrets that had even made the three peak lords cautious.

    That alone was enough to intrigue her…

    “If I could become an inner disciple of the library, I would be eternally grateful, Master Yan,” he said, bowing, feigning loyalty.

    She smiled. “There’s no need to rush. Think carefully.”

    She paused, then added, her voice filled with gentle concern, “After joining the sect, you can choose a cultivation technique from the library. You haven’t been there yet, have you?”

    He shook his head, and she continued, “Go to the third floor. If you find a technique that resonates with you, simply take it. Consider it a welcome gift…”

    He smiled, bowing. “Thank you, Master Yan!”

    The master of the library wasn’t a shark like the sect master, but she was still a big fish…

    With her beauty and her aura, she would be the perfect teacher in the modern world, a ruler in her hand, her figure alluring, glasses perched on her nose.

    She was exquisite… Her only flaw was her age, which was probably several times his… But it wasn’t a problem. In the cultivation world, age was irrelevant…

    She smiled. “Go.”

    She waved her hand.

    The scenery shifted, and he found himself in a spacious hall.

    A few disciples were scattered around, jade slips, scrolls, and ancient texts, representing various cultivation techniques, appearing and disappearing randomly.

    The disciples reached for the techniques, but most only grasped empty air…

    The third floor of the library contained countless techniques, even some first-grade techniques, treasures that could transform a cultivator’s life.

    New disciples were allowed one visit to the library.

    But whether they found a valuable technique or not… it depended on luck…

    If their destiny was strong, they would attract rare and powerful techniques.

    That was one of the reasons why cultivators sought Ling Long’s destiny inheritances. They could significantly improve one’s chances in all aspects of cultivation.

    Of course, if they didn’t want to rely on luck, they could choose a technique from the second floor.

    But the techniques on the second floor were only up to the sixth grade. Fifth-grade and higher techniques could only be obtained through chance on the third floor.

    A jade slip drifted past him, and he reached out, easily catching it in his hand.

    He looked at the words inscribed on the surface: ____.

    “A third-grade technique?!” He was surprised. He reached for another technique, but this time, he only grasped a phantom…

    He remembered Yan Ruyu’s words, a realization dawning on him.

    He tossed the third-grade technique, and it vanished into thin air.

    He reached out again.

    He easily caught another technique.

    It was clear that she had granted him some privilege… allowing him to obtain any technique he wanted.

    She’s so generous… He chuckled inwardly.

    It was like receiving a cheat code from the game developers, allowing him to keep drawing until he obtained the desired item…

    But it was a significant favor. He couldn’t help but feel indebted…

    For her, it might have been a trivial gesture, but for him, and for most disciples, it was a precious gift…

    After all, a suitable cultivation technique could transform a cultivator’s path.

    But there was nothing he could do for her, yet.

    Well, there was one thing…

    It’s not that I’m being lustful… I just feel like she’s been stuck at that bottleneck for a while, and I want to help her…

    He remembered her alluring figure, a flicker of anticipation in his eyes.

    He spent nearly half an hour browsing the third floor, searching for a technique that suited him…

    He found a few more third-grade techniques, but he hadn’t seen any second-grade or first-grade techniques yet.

    First and second-grade techniques were also known as heaven-grade. They weren’t common… Even encountering one was a rare occurrence.

    It seems a third-grade technique is the best I can hope for. He sighed inwardly.

    But it was still early. He could try his luck again.

  • It turns out, they are the protagonists 125 p2

    Chapter 125: I’m a Devoted Man, I Only Like Beautiful Women p2

    He returned to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony and found Bai Ruoxi in a nearby pavilion, her beauty serene and captivating.

    She sat amidst a lush garden, her white dress accentuating her ample bosom, a book in her hand, her long hair tied back with a jade hairpin, a few strands framing her face, giving her an air of effortless elegance.

    She was cold and aloof in public, but with him, she revealed her vulnerable side.

    With a bosom like that, can she even see the words…? He chuckled inwardly, then called out to her. “Ruoxi.”

    He brought two bowls of crane stew, placing them beside her.

    She looked up, her eyes brightening as she saw him, her gaze filled with affection, but she remained silent, maintaining her composure.

    Even after several cultivation sessions, she was still shy, especially in broad daylight. And she had been raised with strict etiquette.

    “What are you reading?” he asked, glancing at the book in her hand.

    She seemed startled, quickly hiding the book behind her back, her voice a forced laugh. “It’s just something to pass the time. Nothing important…”

    If it’s not important, why are you hiding it so carefully…? He studied her, his gaze lingering on the book, then he smiled. “If you don’t want to tell me, it’s fine. Try this stew. Yi Hao only has a few of these cranes, and he treasures them.”

    “We might not have another chance to enjoy this delicacy…”

    She nodded, discreetly placing the book in her storage ring, then she picked up a bowl and sipped the stew gracefully.

    He watched her, noticing something different about her.

    Her cheeks were flushed, her beauty even more captivating…

    It must be related to the book she was reading…

    But everyone had their secrets. He wouldn’t pry.

    He also enjoyed the stew, savoring the luxurious lunch.

    After they finished eating, he sat beside her, and they shared a few intimate moments, then she spoke, her voice filled with excitement. “I think I’m about to break through to the second level of Core Formation!”

    She looked at him, her eyes sparkling, as if waiting for his praise…

    “You’re amazing, Ruoxi,” he said, his voice filled with mock admiration.

    She smiled, her expression softening, then she lifted her chin slightly, feigning indifference.

    “It’s nothing special…”

    Still trying to act cool… He playfully slapped her hip.

    She gasped, glaring at him, her voice a soft complaint. “What was that for~?”

    She seemed angry, but her blush betrayed her shyness…

    He chuckled, not responding.

    Even at the second level of Core Formation, he could still handle her…

    “But is it wise to break through now?” she asked, her voice laced with a sudden concern.

    The Third Prince had just caused a commotion. If her cultivation increased, she might release more demonic aura.

    “Don’t worry. Ling Long is here. Do you think anyone would suspect you…?” he said, smiling.

    It was just like he had said before.

    The boy who cried wolf, no one believed him the second time…

    She nodded, glancing at his hand, which was wandering towards her waist, her voice a mixture of shyness and exasperation. “…Let go… I need to focus on my breakthrough and the tribulation…”

    He reluctantly removed his hand.

    She’s too shy… He couldn’t explore other activities…

    It would be a different experience to be intimate in the garden…

    He looked at her, her beauty captivating, a flicker of regret in his eyes.

    Storm clouds gathered in the sky, and he looked up to see Wei Mengrou standing beneath them, her sword strapped to her back, her figure a vision of power and grace…

    Mengrou has broken through as well…

    He felt a surge of external spiritual energy entering his Vessel, its quality exceptional, almost as potent as the energy he received from dual cultivating with Bai Ruoxi.

    He was about to reach the sixth level of Foundation Establishment!

    The Eight Treasures Crane, a treasure that could only benefit a cultivator once… He exchanged a glance with Bai Ruoxi, then they both retreated to their rooms to prepare for their breakthroughs.

    The next morning, at the library, the neutral faction of the Two Polarities Sect, a place visited by nearly every disciple, seeking knowledge and techniques, Yan Ruyu sat on the ninth floor, her alluring figure accentuated by her thin robe, reading a report from one of her informants.

    The report detailed the Third Prince’s actions at the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

    It was a factual account, devoid of any personal opinions…

    It was an informant’s duty to provide unbiased information. Their personal views would only cloud their master’s judgment.

    Yan Ruyu would make her own decisions.

    She frowned as she read the report, her thoughts racing.

    The Third Prince was related to the vice peak lord of Metamorphic Jewel Peak. He had borrowed the Demon Measuring Ruler from Ning Shuwen, and it had even detected demonic aura in the Garden of Heavenly Harmony.

    But Ning Shuwen had retreated shortly after arriving.

    Then the three peak lords had also visited the pavilion, only to leave soon after…

    If there truly was a demonic cultivator, why would they have given up…?

    But if there wasn’t… why had the ruler reacted…?

    She pondered for a moment, then began to write.

    She folded the letter, handing it to an informant, smiling.

    “Deliver this to the Garden of Heavenly Harmony. Don’t let anyone notice you…”

    At the Jade Glass Palace, in the Garden of Heavenly Harmony, Mu Zhi’an opened his eyes, feeling the surge of spiritual energy within his Vessel, his mind clear and refreshed.

    It’s a shame the Eight Treasures Crane only works once… Otherwise, I could eat one every day and reach Core Formation in no time… He sighed, a flicker of regret in his eyes.

    He opened the door, enjoying the warmth of the sun on his skin, then glanced at Wei Mengrou, who was standing in the courtyard, lost in thought.

    Has Mengrou grown again…? He discreetly observed her, his gaze lingering on her bosom, which seemed even more ample than before.

    She seemed to sense his gaze, turning to look at him, her expression flat. “What are you looking at?”

    He chuckled, unfazed. “Did you reach the sixth level of Core Formation yesterday, Mengrou?”

    She nodded, then, after a moment of hesitation, murmured, “Thank you.”

    He smiled. “If you truly want to thank me, how about offering yourself…?”

    She glared at him, her voice cold. “Get lost.”

    He chuckled.

    That’s more like it…

    If she suddenly became gentle and affectionate, it would be unsettling…

    He was used to her coldness.

    She suddenly looked up, noticing an informant approaching discreetly.

    The informant, their face veiled, entered the pavilion and bowed respectfully, handing Mu Zhi’an an invitation.

    “Master Yan invites you to the library, Young Master Mu.”

    He took the invitation, opening it and scanning the contents, a smile playing on his lips.

    The inner disciple selections were in two days, but it seemed the competition had already begun…

  • It turns out, they are the protagonists 125 p1

    Chapter 125: I’m a Devoted Man, I Only Like Beautiful Women p1

    Metamorphic Jewel Peak.

    Ren Ka Tai, the peak lord, sat on his throne in the grand hall, towering above the clouds.

    He was the son of the Jade Pool Empress Mother of the Eastern Realm. He had joined the Two Polarities Sect a hundred years ago, earning the favor of the founding peak lord, and thirty years ago, he had succeeded his master, becoming the new peak lord.

    He was one of the younger peak lords.

    But in the last sect tournament, Metamorphic Jewel Peak had ranked in the middle. This year, their goal was to reach the top three.

    It wasn’t an impossible goal.

    If they recruited a talented disciple and nurtured them properly, they could surely achieve it.

    Most of the promising candidates this year were from Tianxuan City… It was to be expected. The city was blessed with abundant spiritual energy and a history of producing exceptional individuals.

    But the other peaks were surely competing for those candidates. If they didn’t offer something enticing, they might not be able to secure the disciples they wanted.

    Metamorphic Jewel Peak could offer everything the other peaks could, and they had one more irresistible advantage…

    …Spirits…

    The spirits they had imbued were rare and valuable.

    And several of this year’s candidates were worthy of them.

    Ren Ka Tai tapped his finger against the armrest, lost in thought.

    “What brings you here today?” he asked, looking up as Ning Shuwen, the vice peak lord, entered the hall.

    Ning Shuwen usually spent his time refining weapons or researching spirit imbuement. The two peak lords rarely interacted.

    “Senior Ling Long has appeared,” Ning Shuwen said, his expression grim.

    Ren Ka Tai chuckled. “She appears every few years to bestow destiny upon the disciples… Who received it this time? Bai Ruoxi? Or Ye Lingxuan?”

    Ning Shuwen shook his head. “It’s not about that. It’s something else.”

    Under the peak lord’s intense gaze, he continued, “She’s currently residing at a disciple’s pavilion.”

    Ren Ka Tai’s smile vanished. “Who?”

    “Mu Zhi’an.”

    His eyes flickered. “She’s staying with him?”

    He pondered for a moment, then asked, “Does anyone else know?”

    “The peak lords of Dao Peak, Pure Yang Peak, and Boundless Sea Peak know, but they’ll probably keep it a secret.”

    Ren Ka Tai shook his head. “They might not be able to. The library will surely find out first.”

    The library and the Enforcement Hall were both neutral factions, and they were close. Yan Ruyu rarely left the library, but she was well-informed about the sect’s affairs.

    It was because the Enforcement Hall provided her with intelligence.

    We have to act quickly… he thought to himself.

    He hadn’t considered Mu Zhi’an for an inner disciple position.

    But if he had been chosen by Ling Long… it changed everything.

    Seeing the thoughtful expression on his face, Ning Shuwen hesitated, then said, “The Third Prince went to the Jade Glass Palace earlier… The Demon Measuring Ruler reacted to Senior Ling Long’s demonic aura and shattered…”

    Ren Ka Tai snapped out of his thoughts, staring at him, his silence heavy.

    While they were both peak lords, their authority differed significantly, and Ning Shuwen felt the pressure of his gaze.

    “You gave him permission to investigate?” Ren Ka Tai asked, his voice sharp, his eyes piercing.

    “I thought if there truly was a demonic cultivator, apprehending them wouldn’t be a loss… But I didn’t expect Senior Ling Long to be there.”

    Ning Shuwen wiped the sweat from his forehead, quickly adding, “Don’t worry, Peak Lord. Mu Zhi’an didn’t complain. He only punished Ning Long.”

    Ren Ka Tai’s expression softened slightly. “He’s quite tactful. Prepare two spirit imbued weapons from the armory. We’ll need them for the inner disciple selections in two days.”

    No other peak had as many magical weapons as Metamorphic Jewel Peak.

    “Two…?”

    Ning Shuwen hesitated. “Peak Lord, we’re only allowed to choose one inner disciple… Are you considering someone else?”

    He thought of a name. “Mu Zhi’an?”

    Ren Ka Tai nodded, and Ning Shuwen frowned. “But isn’t he a disciple of Boundless Sea Peak?”

    Having taken the trial on Boundless Sea Peak, he was considered their disciple, unless another peak lord chose him during the inner disciple selections.

    Ren Ka Tai stood up, smiling. “We’ll simply poach him…”

    “I’ve been peak lord for thirty years, and I haven’t made much progress… It’s time to recruit some new blood…”

    The top three peaks in the next sect tournament would receive significant resources from the Elders’ Council, and the three peak lords would receive a destiny opportunity…

    It was worth paying a price for that.

    …

    “Senior Lin Ling, this is the most tender part of the Eight Treasures Crane. Have some more.”

    Mu Zhi’an returned to the pavilion and prepared a crane stew, bringing a bowl to Lin Ling’s room.

    She hadn’t done anything, said anything, but she had still been instrumental in his victory.

    A person’s reputation preceded them. A being like Ling Long, she didn’t even need to actively help him. Her presence alone was enough to inspire awe and reverence in the peak lords and elders.

    “Thank you for your help, Senior. If not for you, Ruoxi might have been in trouble…” he said, looking at her, her expression unchanged.

    She sipped the stew, savoring the flavor.

    She wrote on the table: Delicious. You’ve improved.

    He chuckled. “It’s my second time preparing Eight Treasures Crane. It’s natural for me to improve.”

    He changed the subject. “Senior, it seems Ruoxi releases a bit of demonic aura whenever her cultivation increases. Is there a solution?”

    The higher her cultivation, the more her Nine-Tailed Fox bloodline would awaken. He had informed the sect, but with the current climate, it was best to keep it a secret.

    She pondered for a moment, then wrote: A Nine-Tailed Fox’s demonic aura is undetectable.

    “Reaching Nine Tails is difficult,” he said, sighing.

    By the time she reached Nine Tails, she would probably be at Soul Transformation or even Dao Integration. And then, she wouldn’t need to worry about hiding her aura.

    He studied her, her expression calm as she sipped the stew, her silver hair flowing freely, her side profile delicate and beautiful, her crimson eyes bright and focused.

    He suddenly reached out and grabbed her bowl, trying to take it away.

    She looked at him, tilting her head. “Aaa?”

    It sounded like she was saying: Are you testing me?

    She’s protective of her food… He chuckled. “I was just wondering if you wanted another bowl…”

    Her eyes lit up, and she nodded eagerly.

    So she does care about something… He smiled, his understanding of her deepening.

    He left the room to refill her bowl, then he brought another bowl to Wei Mengrou, before leaving the Garden of Heavenly Harmony and heading towards the Ye sisters’ pavilion.

    He found Ye Lingxuan sitting in the courtyard, sipping tea, a book in her hand, her pale skin glowing in the afternoon sun.

    Beside her sat Ye Qian, her head resting on the table, her ample bosom pressed against the surface as she watched her sister, her legs crossed, her blue embroidered shoes dangling playfully.

    “Lingxuan, Qian’er,” he said, greeting them with a smile.

    Ye Qian’s eyes lit up, and she looked up at him, her voice soft. “Brother Mu!”

    Ye Lingxuan, however, was more reserved, maintaining her usual elegance, her posture straight and proud, her gaze meeting his. “Young Master Mu.”

    Brother Mu in private, Young Master Mu in public… She’s so concerned about appearances… He smiled, taking a seat before them.

    He retrieved two bowls of crane stew from his storage ring, placing them on the table. “Try it. I made it myself.”

    Ye Lingxuan’s eyes widened, and she glanced at him. “Eight Treasures Crane?”

    He nodded, smiling. “Drink it while it’s hot. It might even help you break through”

    “Are you leaving, Brother Mu?” Ye Qian asked, noticing that he hadn’t sat down, her voice laced with disappointment.

    He patted her head gently, his voice soft. “After drinking this stew, you’ll both be close to a breakthrough. The inner disciple selections are approaching. You should focus on preparing.”

    “As for me…”

    He paused, meeting Ye Qian’s gaze, his smile gentle and reassuring. “Where else would I go?”

    She blushed, lowering her eyes, then murmured softly, “Okay”

    He looked at Ye Lingxuan, who met his gaze briefly, then quickly looked away, her expression calm, but her eyes, they held a complex mix of emotions he had never seen before.

    “I’ll go now, Lingxuan,” he whispered, his voice a mental message.

    She looked up, their eyes meeting, her heart skipping a beat.

    “If you’re reluctant, I can stay,” he teased, his voice a playful whisper.

    “Don’t joke like that… Please leave, Young Master Mu!”

    She glared at him, but her eyes held a hint of flirtation.

    The turmoil within her seemed to be fading, replaced by a warmth…

  • The Delicate Female Lead Only Wants to be Loved by the Villainous Young Ladies 33

    The Delicate Female Lead Only Wants to be Loved by the Villainous Young Ladies 33

    Chapter 33: Becoming Her Dog

    A girl’s heart is a mystery, an enigma more difficult to unravel than… well, let’s just say it’s complicated.

    Adele, her attention shifting from the fading ice-blue magic to Celeste’s face, noticed the determined expression on the golden-haired girl’s face, a resolve that seemed to radiate from her very being.

    And then… a ball of pure fire magic, crackling and swirling, erupted in Celeste’s palm, its chaotic energy a reflection of her inner turmoil.

    The light danced across her face, illuminating her features with an ethereal glow. And around it, unseen by Adele, a torrent of mental energy swirled, draining Celeste’s mental reserves, pushing her to her limits.

    It wasn’t the kind of oppressive mental pressure that Adele had experienced with Dorothy and Hermione. This was something… different. Refined, focused, almost… gentle?

    Adele, instead of feeling threatened, felt a surge of curiosity.

    What is she doing?

    She had no idea. She was, after all, a complete novice when it came to magic and elemental manipulation. It was a major disadvantage of transmigrating into this world without inheriting the original Adele’s memories, her accumulated knowledge.

    Besides, Celeste’s role in the original novel had been relatively minor, her story arc quickly resolved. There wasn’t much to draw from her memories.

    And Adele was sure it wasn’t just her faulty memory. This… this was something new, something that hadn’t happened in the original story.

    She wanted to ask, to understand what was happening, what Celeste was trying to achieve. But seeing Celeste struggle, her face pale, sweat dripping from her chin, her body trembling with exertion… Adele couldn’t bring herself to interrupt.

    She watched in silence, her curiosity battling with a growing sense of unease.

    After what felt like an eternity, the torrent of mental energy subsided, flowing into the ball of fire magic, transforming it, shaping it, until it pulsed with a steady, golden light.

    Celeste, drained but exhilarated, her voice a breathless whisper, called out to Adele.

    “Adele… quickly… infuse it with your mental energy.”

    There was no hint of resistance in her voice, no fear of Adele’s touch. Even though Adele’s mental energy was weak, insignificant compared to her own, Celeste welcomed it, craved it.

    The golden sphere pulsed with a gentle warmth, its chaotic energy subdued, its flames extinguished.

    “B-But… I don’t know how!” Adele exclaimed, her voice a mixture of panic and embarrassment. Celeste, you know I’m a Sequence Five! My mental energy is practically nonexistent! How am I supposed to…

    Besides, as a transmigrator, she lacked the knowledge, the training, that the original Adele had possessed. She would need weeks, maybe even months, of intensive study to even begin to understand the intricacies of magic, of mental manipulation.

    Celeste bit her tongue, hard, the pain a welcome distraction from the wave of dizziness that threatened to overwhelm her. She should have known better. Adele wasn’t capable of such advanced techniques.

    She was a weak Sequence Five. Her beloved Sequence Five.

    “Ha… Ha… Then… take my hand,” she said, her voice strained. “Interlace your fingers with mine… and place your hand on the sphere.”

    She wasn’t trying to take advantage of Adele. She was performing a ritual, a sacred act. The intertwining of their fingers… it was a symbolic gesture, a promise of… something more.

    Adele, trusting Celeste, hesitantly reached out, her fingers trembling. She was afraid to touch the sphere, afraid of being burned by its residual heat.

    But as her fingers, intertwined with Celeste’s, made contact with the golden sphere, she felt… nothing. No heat, no pain.

    And then… the sphere began to pulse, expanding and contracting, its golden light intensifying, becoming almost blinding.

    Tendrils of fire, like playful spirits, danced around her arm, swirling upwards, enveloping her in a warm embrace.

    If Hermione’s magic had been cold, distant, almost… aloof… then Celeste’s magic was warm, welcoming, almost… desperate.

    The flames, infused with Celeste’s mental energy, her very essence, flowed into Adele’s body, disappearing without a trace.

    Adele’s mind reeled, her senses overwhelmed. She could see it now… the intricate network of magic circuits, the pathways through which magic flowed, connecting her to Celeste, their hands intertwined, their fates linked.

    Celeste’s circuits were a vibrant gold, pulsing with power and energy. Hers… were a soft pink, their glow faint, almost… fragile.

    She watched as fire magic coursed through her pink circuits, then flowed back into Celeste’s body, carrying with it… something. Something intangible, something she couldn’t quite grasp.

    “…”

    Adele felt a pang of… shame? Her magic was so weak, so insignificant…

    She didn’t understand what was happening, but she trusted Celeste. She relaxed her body, letting go of her fear, allowing Celeste to draw from her, to… take what she needed?

    Or maybe… it wasn’t taking… but giving?

    The magic, returning to Celeste’s body, flowed downwards, settling in her lower abdomen…

    Celeste’s mind soared, her soul trembling with a joy so intense that it bordered on pain. She had never felt… this connected to anyone before. Adele’s presence, her essence, filled her, consumed her, until there was no room for anything else.

    It was as if they had become one, their souls intertwined, their fates bound together.

    The magic settled, the flow subsiding, and Celeste shuddered, a wave of exhaustion washing over her.

    And on her lower abdomen, beneath her uniform, a mark appeared, a heart-shaped symbol etched in pink fire.

    This… this was all she could offer Adele.

    Hermione could never do this. Could she?

    She had accepted Adele, her magic, her essence, her very being. She had allowed Adele to become her master, her ruler.

    In ancient times, this ritual had been known as the “First Embrace,” a brutal act of dominance, a forced submission achieved through blood and magic. The vampire, taking advantage of their victim’s weakened state, would drain their blood, then use their mental powers to break their defenses, to invade their mind, to… tame them.

    They would leave their mark, their magic, within their victim’s body, a permanent reminder of their subservience. Any attempt at defiance would result in excruciating pain, a backlash of magic that could cripple, even kill.

    But times had changed. The ritual had been refined, its methods less barbaric, its purpose… well, it depended on who you asked.

    It was now known as a “spiritual contract,” a binding agreement between two souls, a pact sealed with magic. And to ensure compliance, to prevent rebellion… they used “magic crests.”

    It was still a form of magical branding, a way to mark their property. But thanks to the ingenuity of a certain vampire, who had borrowed techniques from the succubus race, the process had become… more subtle, more insidious.

    The magic crest wasn’t just a mark of ownership, but a tool of manipulation, a way to subtly influence the victim’s thoughts, their emotions, their very sense of self. It was a slow, insidious form of brainwashing, a way to ensure complete and utter submission.

    Celeste, who had secretly learned this forbidden art, this ancient ritual that was now banned by the academy… she had performed it on Adele.

    Her eyes, glazed with a mixture of exhaustion and bliss, settled on the mark on her abdomen, the warmth of Adele’s magic a constant reminder of their bond.

    Adele’s magic wasn’t forceful, demanding. It was gentle, comforting, like a warm embrace.

    She felt a shift within her, a tightening of the bond between her and Celeste, a sense of… control? She didn’t understand, but she couldn’t deny the feeling.

    “What… What does this mean, Celeste?” she asked, her voice barely a whisper. “What did you do to me? I just… I need to know.”

    Celeste’s gaze met hers, her eyes burning with an intensity that sent shivers down Adele’s spine.

    “I just… atoned for my sins,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. “From this day forward, Adele… I am yours.”

    “What… What!?”

    Celeste’s expression was serious, her gaze unwavering. She took Adele’s hand in hers, her lips brushing against her skin, leaving a trail of kisses from her wrist to her fingertips.

    Each kiss sent a jolt of heat through the magic crest on her abdomen, a physical manifestation of her submission, her surrender.

    “Adele… may I call you… Master?” she asked, her voice barely audible.

    “Please… allow me… to be your dog.”

  • The Delicate Female Lead Only Wants to be Loved by the Villainous Young Ladies 32

    Chapter 32: What Does She Want to Do?

    “Celeste… you can… come closer.”

    Celeste, her cheeks burning with shame, hesitated. But she couldn’t refuse Adele’s request. She slowly climbed onto the bed, her movements hesitant, awkward.

    She was a Sequence Two vampire, a member of a wealthy, influential family. But in Adele’s presence, she felt… small. Unworthy.

    Because she had seen true beauty, true purity, in Adele’s heart. And compared to that… her own body, her own soul, felt… tarnished.

    She had been so foolish, so arrogant, believing that bloodline, that power, that wealth… that those things mattered.

    True nobility, she realized, had nothing to do with lineage.

    It was a lesson learned late, but… not too late.

    “Closer,” Adele urged, sensing Celeste’s hesitation. They were still too far apart. And wouldn’t Celeste fall off the bed if she sat like that?

    “…”

    Celeste wanted to protest, to say that she didn’t deserve to be near Adele, that she was unworthy of her touch. But her body, betraying her heart, moved closer, inching towards Adele until their shoulders were almost touching.

    She could smell Adele’s scent, a faint, sweet fragrance that calmed her racing heart.

    Her long, golden hair swayed gently as she settled into a more comfortable position.

    Adele’s eyes sparkled, her fingers reaching out to brush against Celeste’s hair, her touch as light and gentle as a summer breeze.

    Celeste’s shoulders trembled slightly, her eyes closing as she savored the sensation of Adele’s fingers threading through her hair.

    “Your hair is so beautiful, Celeste,” Adele murmured, her voice soft and appreciative. “You should just… sit beside me like this. I won’t run away.”

    Celeste’s hand, gripping the bedsheet, tightened, then relaxed, her expression a mixture of gratitude and regret. She didn’t need to apologize. Her remorse was evident in her every gesture, in the way her eyes, usually so bright and confident, were now downcast, filled with a deep sadness.

    She regretted everything. Why couldn’t she have been like this before, content to simply sit beside Adele, to enjoy her company? Why had she been so impulsive, so…

    “It’s okay,” Adele said, her voice soothing, as if she were comforting a puppy who had misbehaved. She reached up, her fingers gently stroking Celeste’s hair, her touch a balm for Celeste’s wounded soul.

    The puppy had bitten its owner. But now… it was remorseful, wasn’t it?

    It would learn to be better.

    Adele had experience with training pets. Forgiveness, she had learned, was a far more effective tool than punishment. As long as it was a loyal dog… not a wild, untamed wolf that might turn on its master.

    Celeste whimpered softly, her heart filled with a mixture of relief and gratitude. Adele had forgiven her… It was a miracle…

    She lowered her head, her posture submissive, her body relaxing under Adele’s gentle touch. Even the pain from her wounds seemed to fade.

    Being near Adele… it was like a magic spell, chasing away the darkness, filling her with a sense of peace.

    Adele, her fingers still tangled in Celeste’s hair, her touch lingering, slowly moved her hand down to Celeste’s face, her fingers tracing the contours of her jawline, her cheekbones, her… scars.

    Celeste’s eyes flew open, her body tensing as she instinctively pulled away. She met Adele’s gaze, her eyes wide with a mixture of surprise and… fear?

    “Don’t hide, Celeste,” Adele said, her voice soft yet firm. “Just… trust me, okay?”

    “…”

    Against her better judgment, Celeste nodded. But she couldn’t help but add a warning.

    “Be careful of her magic,” she said, her voice barely a whisper. “It… It’ll fade in a few days. It… It doesn’t hurt.”

    But as Adele’s fingers brushed against the wound on her cheek, she couldn’t help but gasp, a sharp intake of breath that betrayed her words.

    “See? You lied to me,” Adele said, a hint of disappointment in her voice.

    Celeste’s heart clenched.

    “I’m sorry! I… I won’t do it again,” she blurted out, her voice thick with remorse.

    But that wasn’t what mattered right now.

    “Your hand… Adele, are you okay?” she asked, her gaze fixed on Adele’s fingers, which were now glowing with a faint, icy blue light.

    Adele had been prepared to endure the pain, to use it as a way to gain Celeste’s sympathy. But as her fingers touched the wound, something unexpected happened.

    The magic, instead of lashing out, seemed to… respond to her touch. It swirled around her fingers, dancing playfully, like… faeries.

    Is this… ice magic?

    Adele flexed her fingers, savoring the sensation. It was cold, yes, but not unpleasant. And it was fading, slowly dissipating into the air.

    She wasn’t an Elemental, after all. She couldn’t hold onto this magic for long.

    But what intrigued her… was why it hadn’t harmed her. Why it had seemed to… welcome her touch.

    Is it because it’s Hermione’s magic…?

    Her expression softened.

    Celeste, noticing the change in Adele’s demeanor, her fingers glowing with Hermione’s magic, froze, her eyes widening in disbelief.

    Adele, realizing that Celeste had misinterpreted the situation, her cheeks flushing, quickly explained, “Hermione… she’s not a bad person. She… she didn’t hurt me.”

    “Not a bad person?” Celeste’s voice was barely a whisper, her heart aching with a pain that was both physical and emotional.

    “…Not… not entirely,” Adele said, her voice softening. “I… I give her my blood, and she… protects me. She gives me a place to stay, food to eat…”

    Celeste’s body trembled. She knew she had no right to judge Adele’s relationship with Hermione. But it was hard to accept, to see the person who had hurt her, who had humiliated her… being so close to the person she loved most.

    And Hermione’s magic… it had responded to Adele’s touch with a gentleness, a familiarity, that spoke of a bond far deeper than Celeste could ever hope to achieve.

    As an Elemental herself, she understood what that meant. It meant that Hermione had accepted Adele, had lowered her defenses, had allowed her magic, her very essence, to… embrace her.

    It was a level of intimacy that transcended the physical, a connection that spoke of trust, of… love?

    If Hermione wished, she could even temporarily lend Adele her magic circuits.

    Magic circuits… well, they were the pathways through which magic flowed. If magic was a bullet, then magic circuits were the gun, providing the initial force, the pressure, that propelled the bullet forward.

    Magic, channeled through magic circuits, was amplified, transformed into powerful spells and abilities.

    The strength of a vampire’s magic was directly proportional to the strength of their magic circuits. It was a simple equation: Magic x Magic Circuits = Magical Power.

    A weakness in either element would result in a decrease in power. But even the weakest of magic, channeled through powerful circuits, could achieve incredible feats.

    Adele’s magic might be weak, but if she could borrow Hermione’s circuits… the possibilities were endless.

    And there was a high probability that… their minds would become linked, their thoughts and emotions intertwined.

    That was the secret to the Black and White Twins’ power. Individually, they weren’t that much stronger than Celeste, considered to be among the weaker Sequence Ones. But together… their combined magic, their synchronized circuits, their innate telepathic connection… they were practically invincible.

    They could fight as one, their movements perfectly coordinated, their thoughts aligned, their power amplified tenfold.

    Even two Sequence Ones, fighting together, often struggled to defeat them.

    Adele seemed oblivious to the implications of her connection to Hermione, to the depth of Hermione’s feelings for her. She was clearly more than just a… blood bag.

    Celeste’s eyes, which had dimmed with despair, suddenly brightened, a spark of determination igniting within them.

    What was she planning?

  • The Delicate Female Lead Only Wants to be Loved by the Villainous Young Ladies 31

    Chapter 31: You’re Finally Paying Attention to Me

    Adele had envisioned countless scenarios for her reunion with Celeste: a chance encounter in the hallway, a fleeting glimpse on the street, maybe even a… locker room confrontation after gym class.

    Wait, why the locker room again?

    Well, locker rooms were notorious for… interesting encounters.

    But she hadn’t considered the infirmary. The irony wasn’t lost on her.

    And there are beds here…

    It was a coincidence that felt almost… too perfect.

    But when she saw Celeste, the state she was in… she understood why she had sought refuge in the infirmary.

    Scars, both fresh and old, marred the girl’s face, her neck, her arms, her legs… every exposed inch of her body bore the marks of punishment, a chilling reminder of the consequences of defying a Sequence One.

    It was a brutal, yet necessary, display of power, a way to deter further retaliation from Hermione.

    It didn’t mean that Celeste’s family didn’t care about her, that they had abandoned her. On the contrary, if they had truly given up on her, they wouldn’t have bothered with this… charade.

    Humiliation and submission in exchange for their daughter’s life and future… it was a price they were willing to pay.

    But even though Celeste understood this, the reality of her situation, the vast gulf that separated her from Hermione… it must have been a crushing blow.

    The guilt she carried, the mockery of her classmates, the sudden fall from grace, from being the pride of her class to a… pariah… it was all too much to bear.

    And she was at that sensitive age, that tumultuous time when pride and self-worth were paramount.

    So, she had retreated, sought solace in the infirmary, like a wounded animal licking its wounds in the safety of its den.

    Adele, understanding Celeste’s pain, felt a wave of sympathy wash over her. She should have been afraid of Celeste, wary of the girl who had tried to…

    But she wasn’t.

    Because as a transmigrator, she had a unique perspective. She knew the story, knew Celeste’s heart, her motivations, her desires.

    Celeste was consumed by guilt, by remorse for her actions. And the realization that her unrequited love was… well, unrequited… it had shattered her.

    She was desperate for redemption, but she had chosen to hide, to retreat into the shadows, too ashamed to even reach out.

    And Adele… well, Adele was her redemption.

    At least, this Adele was.

    The original Adele, faced with this situation, would have cowered in fear, her eyes wide with terror as she watched Celeste flee. And that… that would have only pushed Celeste further down the path of self-destruction.

    Heartbroken and desperate for revenge, she would have lashed out at Hermione, her actions fueled by a reckless disregard for consequences.

    It would have been a repeat of the original story, a tragic ending for both of them.

    Celeste, driven by her grief, would have consumed a Sequence One potion, a powerful elixir that granted immense power at the cost of… life.

    Her long lifespan, her vampire heritage, would have been reduced to a ticking time bomb, a rapidly dwindling hourglass. And when the sand ran out… she would cease to exist, her soul lost in an eternal slumber.

    And Hermione… well, she wouldn’t have fared much better. Injured, perhaps even mortally wounded, she would have faded from the story, her fate uncertain.

    Adele didn’t want that to happen. Not to either of them.

    They were both… precious to her.

    Okay, maybe Hermione is a little more precious… But Celeste is… well, she’s Celeste.

    I’d be an idiot to let them destroy each other.

    What was the point of transmigrating into this world if she couldn’t change the story, couldn’t prevent the tragic ending?

    So, she didn’t run. She didn’t hide.

    She faced her fears… and her future wife.

    “Celeste…” she said, her voice a little hoarse from disuse.

    Celeste, frozen in the act of pulling the curtain open, her gaze fixed on the floor, didn’t respond. She seemed to be avoiding Adele’s gaze, as if ashamed to meet her eyes.

    She raised her hand, covering the side of her face that bore the marks of Hermione’s punishment, as if trying to hide her shame, her humiliation.

    Her hand, despite the warmth of the room, was icy cold, Hermione’s magic lingering, the wounds deep and pulsing with a chilling blue energy.

    It must have been agonizing.

    Adele tried again, her voice softer this time, trying to bridge the gap between them, to erase the memory of yesterday’s events.

    “Celeste, I didn’t expect to see you here,” she said.

    “…”

    Silence.

    Adele’s voice softened even further, a gentle warmth replacing the initial awkwardness.

    “What… what happened to you? Does it hurt?” she asked, her concern genuine. “Celeste… I can barely see you. Come closer… please?”

    “Celeste… Why aren’t you answering me?”

    The more Adele spoke, the more Celeste’s guilt intensified, crushing her beneath its weight. She didn’t deserve Adele’s concern, her kindness…

    Plop!

    A tear escaped, sliding down her cheek, blurring her vision.

    She couldn’t take it anymore. She had to leave.

    She rose from the bed, her movements jerky and uncoordinated, and stumbled towards the door, her escape route, her path to… wherever a failure, a coward, a… monster like her belonged.

    The gutter.

    She reached the door, her hand gripping the handle, ready to flee.

    “Celeste? Where are you going?” Adele’s voice, laced with panic, stopped her in her tracks. “Why are you leaving… me? Cough! Cough…!”

    She clutched at her chest, her body wracked with a sudden coughing fit, her face contorted in pain. She gasped for breath, tears welling up in her eyes.

    But even through her pain, her gaze remained fixed on Celeste, her eyes pleading, their vulnerability disarming, irresistible.

    Celeste froze, her escape forgotten, her heart lurching with concern. She couldn’t think, couldn’t breathe. All that mattered was… Adele.

    She rushed to Adele’s bedside, dropping to her knees, the coldness of the floor seeping into her bones, unheeded, irrelevant. She had to be closer to Adele.

    She took Adele’s hand in hers, her touch gentle, her breath warm against Adele’s cold skin. She rubbed Adele’s hand, her own injuries forgotten, her own pain insignificant.

    Being near Adele… it had a calming effect on her, a soothing balm for her troubled soul.

    Adele, sensing that her strategy was working, her heart filled with a mixture of relief and a perverse sense of triumph, didn’t let up. She kept her eyes closed, her brow furrowed, her breathing shallow and uneven, as if she were in agonizing pain.

    She was channeling her inner damsel in distress.

    Time seemed to stretch on, each passing second an eternity, until finally, she slowly relaxed her brow, her breathing returning to normal.

    She opened her eyes, her pink pupils, initially dull and lifeless, brightening as they focused on Celeste, a spark of… something igniting within them.

    As long as it wasn’t heart-shaped, she was good.

    “I’m… sorry, Adele,” Celeste whispered, her voice choked with emotion. “I’m so sorry.”

    Relief washed over her, her heart finally settling into a steady rhythm. Tears streamed down her face, blurring her vision, her carefully constructed facade crumbling as she surrendered to her emotions.

    She apologized, for everything, for her attempted escape, for yesterday’s… mistake. She was filled with a regret so profound that she would have done anything, given anything, to atone for her sins.

    She couldn’t escape, couldn’t hide from the truth. Her heart belonged to Adele, its every beat echoing Adele’s pain, her joy, her sorrow.

    Adele’s hand, initially cold and clammy, gradually warmed beneath Celeste’s touch.

    Adele reached out, her fingers gently brushing away Celeste’s tears. She shook her head, her expression conveying a silent forgiveness.

    Her voice, soft and soothing like a gentle rain, washed away the dust and grime that had settled on Celeste’s soul, leaving behind a sense of… peace.

    “Celeste…” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “You’re finally… paying attention to me.”

  • Come, Let Me Take You Home 26

    No. 26 When Tears Turn to Scars

    “Alright, that’s all for today…”

    Before the homeroom teacher could finish her sentence, a few students started to get up.

    “Hold it right there!” She slammed her hand on the desk. “Did I say class is dismissed?”

    They quickly sat back down.

    “Look at yourselves! What kind of behavior is this?”

    She stood with her hands on her hips, her face stern. “Eager to go play? To go to the internet cafe? Do you want me to turn your next class into a self-study session?”

    With the high school entrance exam approaching, many elective courses had been replaced with self-study sessions. Even PE, which was mandated by the Education Bureau, had been reduced to once every two weeks. So, their eagerness for physical activity was understandable.

    Although PE usually consisted of a few warm-up exercises and a couple of laps around the track.

    “I have an announcement. Starting tomorrow, we will have classes on Saturdays.”

    Her words were like a bomb, sending shockwaves through the classroom.

    “Why?!”

    “What era are we living in? Extra classes on Saturdays?”

    “You should have told us earlier! I already made plans for tomorrow.”

    “Yeah, this is so sudden!”

    Even Tan Lijiang, the model student, couldn’t help but protest. “Teacher, can we ask for leave? I have something to do tomorrow.”

    I watched the chaos unfold, my heart filled with conflicting emotions.

    On one hand, I was grateful for this second chance at life, to experience the joys of school again. On the other hand, I was saddened by my inability to change the predetermined fates of those around me.

    Some of these students would become factory workers, some would become office workers, and some would face bankruptcy and broken families.

    Yet here they were, arguing with the teacher about extra classes.

    “Enough! It’s just extra classes! Stop complaining!” The teacher slammed her hand on the desk again and pointed at a notice posted beside the national flag. “Look at this! How many days are left until the high school entrance exam? Our school is being lenient. Other schools have classes even on Sundays! And you’re still not satisfied?”

    “Look at Yi Yao. She’s a girl, and she’s not complaining. Why can she be a hero, but you can’t? This is the difference! Do you understand?”

    That’s because they hadn’t been kidnapped. In the face of death, everyone was equal.

    But seriously, teacher, are you trying to throw me under the bus?

    Why bring me into this? Why portray me as the outlier, the enemy?

    Classrooms were strange places. Everyone knew that even if someone from their class scored the highest in the city, it wouldn’t affect their own lives. Yet, they still felt the need to suppress or sabotage their competitors, making comments like, “I didn’t study at all last night. I’m going to fail this test,” or “I messed up so many questions. I’m giving up. Let’s go to the internet cafe tonight.”

    No one could relax and enjoy themselves knowing their friend was studying hard at home.

    “Yi Yao, stand up and tell us your thoughts on extra classes.”

    Seeing that I wasn’t reacting, she gestured for me to stand.

    “Before I answer that, I have a question for you, teacher.”

    I stood up and smiled faintly. “Do you have one day off or two days off every week?”

    Days off were a sensitive topic for most people, including teachers.

    Just like the Education Bureau’s rule against weekend classes for students, our country had implemented a law twenty years ago limiting work hours to forty per week. Which meant that, with an eight-hour workday, a five-day workweek was the legal limit.

    But the reality was that, even after twenty years, eighty percent of schools in Upper Capital City still held classes on Saturdays, and most companies still only gave their employees one day off.

    Even ten years later, in 2026, this situation wouldn’t change. In fact, it would only worsen.

    “I…” The teacher was speechless. She stared at me, then stammered, “Look, I’m working overtime with you. Don’t you think you should study hard?”

    “That’s all. Remember to come to class tomorrow. I’ll be taking attendance. You’ll face the consequences if you skip.”

    She left the classroom, her parting words a thinly veiled threat.

    “Haha, well said, Yi Yao!”

    The two boys in front of me turned around and gave me a thumbs-up.

    “Yeah, look at her face! Why didn’t I think of that? We have extra classes, and she has to work overtime. Hahaha, fair trade.”

    I just smiled faintly, not wanting to engage.

    They were still children…

    When it came to rest and relaxation, teachers definitely had it worse than students.

    Students could nap during class, play on their phones, or read comics. But teachers couldn’t. Besides teaching, they had to grade papers. If they couldn’t finish grading during school hours, they had to take it home, unpaid overtime.

    Students had extra classes, teachers worked overtime. Students went home to do homework, teachers went home to grade papers. Both sides were exhausted, trapped in a vicious cycle with no end in sight.

    “Hey, Yi Yao, is Lan Zhuoyue still not here?”

    Tan Lijiang approached me with a few other boys as I was packing my bag. “The basketball game is about to start. You said you would give me an answer after class.”

    “My answer is,” I put on my cap, “I’ll play in his place.”

    “What? You?”

    He looked at me incredulously. “Come on, do you even know how to play basketball?”

    I turned to him. “Yes, I do. Why?”

    I didn’t know how to play basketball, but Yi Yao did.

    She played streetball, the rough and tumble kind. She often played with Hua She and the others after school or during holidays. Like Taekwondo, basketball was a skill ingrained in her body. Now, having inherited her body, I was naturally familiar with the game.

    “Well… never mind. Do whatever you want.”

    He waved at his friends, then patted my shoulder. “Meet us at the court after warm-up.”

    “Okay.”

    His agreement was expected.

    Yi Yao had never shown off her athletic abilities in school. Even in the 800-meter run during PE exams, where she could easily come in first, she would deliberately slow down and barely pass. I already had a conflict with Tan Lijiang. Now that I had volunteered to play, he wouldn’t miss this opportunity to see me fail.

    Warm-up exercises, running laps, safety instructions—PE class passed quickly.

    Then came free time.

    I took off my school uniform jacket, revealing a T-shirt and denim shorts, and headed towards the basketball court.

    Tan Lijiang and the Class 12 team were already there.

    “You seem to be short a player.”

    One of the Class 12 boys looked at Tan Lijiang’s team. “There are only four of you.”

    Tan Lijiang pointed at me. “And her.”

    “Seriously, Lao Jiang? That’s not fair.” The boy glanced at me. “Is your class that desperate? This is a competition. Bringing a girl is not cool.”

    I walked over to him. “You don’t have to treat me like a girl.”

    “Ooh, feisty, aren’t we?”

    He feinted a move, then effortlessly sank a basket. “We’re not responsible for any injuries, okay?”

    “Try to hit me first.”

    I chuckled inwardly. Playing basketball with Hua She and his gang, I had encountered all sorts of dirty tricks. These kids were amateurs.

    “Alright, I like your spirit.”

    He tossed me the ball. “Fine, Lao Jiang, I’ll trust you this time. You guys have the girl, you get the ball.”

    I passed the ball back to him. “Let’s play by the rules.”

    “Yi Yao, aren’t you going to take off your cap?”

    Tan Lijiang whispered behind me.

    “No need.” I adjusted my cap and took my position as forward. “Let’s start.”

    Taking off the cap would defeat the purpose of this game.

    “Are you serious? Trying to bully us with a girl?” One of the Class 12 boys was outraged. “Little sister, let me tell you something. Don’t expect us to go easy on you. This is about our class’s honor.”

    The commotion on the court attracted a crowd.

    Even some of the girls from our class, who usually avoided the sun, came over to watch, whispering among themselves.

    “I never asked you to go easy on me.”

    “Heh, that’s what you said.”

    The whistle blew, and the game began.

    “Two points for Class 12!”

    One of the Class 12 boys sank a basket after a smooth pass.

    “Ten points for Class 12!”

    “Twenty-four points for Class 12!”

    “Two points for Class 11!”

    “Forty-two points for Class 12!”

    “Eighteen points for Class 11.”

    Whether out of distrust or malice, my teammates never passed me the ball. Even when I managed to steal it, they would immediately demand it back. Fifteen minutes had passed, and I hadn’t scored a single point.

    “Halftime!”

    I walked over to my bag, barely breaking a sweat, and was about to grab my water bottle when a small, pale hand offered me a cold bottle of mineral water.

    “Go, Yi Yao!”

    The girl was Luo Xiaoning, whose grades were second only to Tan Lijiang. In my previous life, she had often asked me for help with her studies. But in this world, Yi Yao had barely interacted with her.

    “You’re the first girl in our class to play in a basketball game. We’re rooting for you.”

    She added, seeing my confused expression.

    “Thank you.”

    I took a few sips of water, then walked over to Tan Lijiang. “Switch me with the point guard.”

    “What? Why?” He wiped the sweat from his forehead with a towel. “I’ve never seen you practice shooting.”

    “Come on, Lao Jiang, let’s just forfeit.”

    A few Class 12 boys approached us, grinning. “You’re trailing by 26 points. Class is ending in fifteen minutes. Just give up.”

    “Why should we give up?”

    I looked at them, the sun shining brightly on my face. “It’s just 26 points. Nine three-pointers, and we’re ahead.”