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  • I Am a Devil, I Only Understand Transactions chapter 16

    Chapter 16: Trapping Three in One Go

    “You…” The young man was furious, tightly gripping the knife in his hand. He wanted to pull it out and stab Luo Feng, but found that he still couldn’t move.

    Now, his mind was filled with thoughts of “three times in one night”.

    The woman he loved the most, his only spiritual sustenance, was had three times in one night by someone else!

    “You want to fight a devil?” A playful smile appeared on Luo Feng’s face. “You don’t even have the courage to kill him, yet you want to kill me?”

    “What exactly do you want?” The young man growled.

    “I want to give you a chance. I can swap you with him and turn that person into you.”

    “What’s the price?” The young man’s mind recalled countless movie scenes. Those who made deals with devils never had a good ending.

    “You serve me after death.” Luo Feng’s whisper sounded in the young man’s ear. “It’s a matter after death. Do you want to live this life steadily, or do you want to pursue the illusory next life? You should know, the current you has nothing of value to trade, only your soul.”

    “What if I don’t accept?” Cold sweat flowed down the young man’s head.

    “If you don’t accept, then I’ll leave.” Luo Feng stood up, lowered his hat brim, and looked back at him with a smile. “You know, there are too many people willing to make a deal. I won’t waste too much time on you. To me, your soul is dispensable.”

    “I accept!” The young man gritted his teeth.

    He didn’t hesitate for long. Luo Feng didn’t give him time to hesitate at all.

    He wasn’t as gentle with him as he was with Ginko Sora. He was too ugly and a man.

    “Sign the contract.”

    As Luo Feng spoke, a contract appeared in front of the two.

    “You still have room for choice now. If you want to sign, just press your handprint.” Luo Feng smiled, not caring whether he signed or not.

    The young man decisively pressed his handprint on the contract and then fainted.

    Snap!

    With another snap of his fingers, Luo Feng and the woman appeared in a luxury car.

    The driver was a handsome young man, and the passenger was a girl with a very pure look.

    “Nanaka?” The young man’s hands were trembling slightly.

    “What’s wrong?” The girl looked at the young man.

    “Nothing.” A somewhat evil smile appeared on the young man’s face.

    Luo Feng placed his right index finger on the woman’s temple. She could now hear the young man’s inner thoughts.

    This guy seemed to have a lot of women, and there were quite a few he had seduced but hadn’t touched yet.

    I have his life now?

    Nanaka is nothing, just a played-out piece of trash.

    I want to…

    Luo Feng withdrew his finger.

    The woman had a look of disdain. This young man didn’t really like his childhood friend but was just lusting after her body. Despicable!

    Snap!

    Luo Feng snapped his fingers again, and he and the woman disappeared from the car.

    At this moment, the young man could no longer restrain his primal urges. He just wanted to find another hotel and have three more rounds with Nanaka first, indulge himself, and then cruelly abandon her!

    Or directly in the car? It was his first time riding in such a luxury car!

    The corner of his mouth curved into a delightful smile.

    But just then, a large truck came rushing towards them.

    The young man widened his eyes and quickly turned the steering wheel, but the truck seemed to follow him like a shadow, crashing into his car…

    Time rewound to an hour ago.

    It was the same car, the same scene.

    Because they couldn’t avoid the truck, the car fell off a cliff.

    Fortunately, both people were still alive, hanging on by a thread.

    However, this soul had not been swapped yet.

    Just as the two were in despair, a man wearing a trench coat walked up to them.

    They were about to cry for help when the man in the trench coat spoke, “Want to live? Two souls can save one person. Exchanging two souls for the chance of one person to live is very fair.”

    …

    Luo Feng and the woman were now back in the izakaya.

    This transaction was simple. He had already obtained the souls of the rich second-generation and the woman. In the end, the one who gained the right to survive was the rich second-generation.

    Of course, this was under his guidance. Otherwise, in order to live, people couldn’t do anything. He didn’t want to make a losing deal.

    Then, coincidentally, this woman came to him. Even if she hadn’t come, Luo Feng would have gone to find that unlucky bastard.

    He did indeed swap the rich second-generation’s life, but he became the rich second-generation’s scapegoat.

    And that rich second-generation would be reborn in his body.

    The rich second-generation was a guy who only knew how to chase girls and gamble. How could he endure the life of a poor boy? Who knew when he would die.

    It wasn’t that he had no other abilities. The rich second-generation had received an elite education, and he wasn’t completely useless. But for him to make use of those abilities required a prerequisite: startup funds, connections, etc.

    He didn’t have these, so he couldn’t fully utilize his skills.

    In the end, because of a car accident, Luo Feng saved one and obtained the souls of two people.

    That poor boy…

    He was simply tricked by Luo Feng.

    However, when making a deal with the devil, one had to be prepared for this kind of outcome.

    The devil’s terms were extremely tempting but also full of various traps.

    In Raphi’s words, Luo Feng was a true devil with no bottom line.

    He casually took the life of an innocent person without any guilt.

    Luo Feng added the souls of the poor boy and his childhood friend to the holy water he poured for himself, extracting the sins from their bodies.

    Human sins, paired with holy water from the Vatican, were a rare delicacy.

    Luo Feng picked up the holy water and downed it in one gulp.

    Originally, it was just strong alcohol, but now it had flavor, like liquor mixed with a beverage.

    Now, this poor boy and his childhood friend were truly together, only to be sent to hell to do endless work unless one day they could become devils like Luo Feng.

    Unfortunately, becoming a devil was even harder than becoming an angel. It was simpler to be a brainless demon.

    “How about it, beautiful lady? Do you believe in my ability now?” Luo Feng said softly. “In this world, there is nothing that cannot be exchanged. You see, that person used his afterlife in advance to obtain pleasure in this life.”

    “What do you want? As long as it can save my family, I’m willing to give anything.”

    The woman became exceptionally submissive, completely losing her previous arrogance.

    Actually, compared to those immature guys, people like her were more terrifying because they could endure and dared to gamble.

    In one second, she could look down on you with a condescending gaze, and in the next second, she could be gentle and agreeable for the sake of profit.

    “What is your family called?” The corner of Luo Feng’s mouth curved into a delighted smile. “Also, what kind of bargaining chip can you offer?”

    “My name is Saori Yukinoshita(1)*, of the Chiba Yukinoshita family…”

    Character from the anime : Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Come wa Machigatteiru

    Saori Yukinoshita:

     

  • It turns out, they are the protagonists chapter 20

    Chapter 20: Don’t Bully the Young and Poor!

    A daring thought flashed through Mu Zhi’an’s mind.

    It seemed improbable, yet he couldn’t shake off the feeling that he was onto something.

    Assuming the black-robed man wasn’t lying, why would Bai Yuanfeng visit the Gongsun Manor?

    There were only two possibilities.

    One, she was pleading with them to spare the Bai family.

    But that was highly unlikely.

    The other possibility…

    Bai Ruoxi’s father had been ambushed on his way back to the city. It would have been impossible to severely injure a Core Formation expert without careful planning and a well-executed ambush.

    So, the question was… who had leaked information about his return route?

    And why had Bai Yuanfeng refused to use the Meridian Connecting Pill to protect her family, choosing instead to offer her own daughter as a bargaining chip?

    Was she truly that foolish?

    He doubted it.

    The black-robed man watched Mu Zhi’an, a knowing smirk on his face. “You’re a smart man, Young Master Mu. I’m sure you know what to do.”

    Mu Zhi’an snapped out of his thoughts and nodded. “Heh heh. Thanks for the intel.”

    Heh heh…? The black-robed man blinked, confused.

    “Don’t mind me. Just trying something out,” Mu Zhi’an replied with a smile.

    He’d assumed all villains laughed like that, but it seemed he’d overthought it.

    The black-robed man, baffled, glanced at him dismissively, then turned to leave.

    Suddenly, he paused, his gaze fixed on the paper crane on the desk. A flicker of surprise crossed his eyes.

    He quickly masked his reaction, then vanished into thin air.

    Moments later, Wei Mengrou emerged from the shadows, no longer concealing her presence.

    She glanced towards the window. “That man reacted to the paper crane. He might know its origin.”

    Mu Zhi’an’s eyes widened in surprise.

    Could it be… the black-robed man was connected to the family of the crane’s owner?

    He’d had his men investigate the black-robed man’s identity, but it had been a dead end. As an outsider, his true origins were shrouded in mystery.

    But now, there was a new lead. He had to pursue it. “In that case, have someone follow the crane tomorrow and see where it comes from,” he instructed.

    He’d been chatting with the crane’s owner every day. It felt like talking to someone online… He might as well prepare himself and see what his online friend looked like in person.

    After finalizing his plans, he looked at Wei Mengrou.

    “No training today, Mengrou. I’m going out.”

    “You don’t need to inform me of your every move, Young Master. I wouldn’t be surprised if you suddenly decided to abandon your training altogether,” Wei Mengrou replied, her tone indifferent.

    However, her eyes held no hint of disapproval or disappointment.

    It was clear that she was pleased with his recent dedication.

    And Mu Zhi’an was pleased with himself as well.

    He persisted in his training not only to improve his strength but also to increase his favorability with Wei Mengrou.

    It might be a cliché tactic, but it was effective.

    Just like those cheesy lines that made people cringe. Despite their awkwardness, many women in love found them endearing.

    After instructing a servant to prepare a carriage, Mu Zhi’an settled into the plush cushions and set off towards the Bai Manor.

    Moments later, he pulled back the curtain and saw a familiar manor up ahead.

    The Bai Manor!

    He stepped out of the carriage and saw two servants guarding the entrance. They looked surprised to see him.

    “Young Master Mu, what brings you here?” they asked.

    Everyone in Tianxuan City, except perhaps for young children, knew Mu Zhi’an. The servants were no exception.

    “I have some business with Ruoxi. Is she inside?” Mu Zhi’an asked.

    One of the servants nodded, but then hesitated. “She is… but she might not be available to see you right now”

    Mu Zhi’an raised an eyebrow, about to ask why.

    Just then, he heard the sound of an argument coming from within the manor. He recognized Ye Yu’s voice.

    “Miss Bai, if you’re determined to break off our engagement, then I have nothing more to say.”

    “However, while I might be poor, I still have my pride. Today, I, Ye Yu, hereby annul our engagement!”

    Mu Zhi’an was stunned.

    After a moment, he recovered.

    It seems I’ve stumbled upon a classic “breakup” scene…

    He was about to enter the manor when the servants blocked his path. “Apologies, Young Master Mu, but we have orders from Madam. No one is allowed inside.”

    Mu Zhi’an pulled out two silver coins and pressed them into their hands. “Just let me in. If they throw me out, I won’t blame you. Deal?”

    The servants hesitated. “Young Master Mu, please don’t make this difficult for us. We can’t afford to be held responsible if something happens”

    Mu Zhi’an added four more silver coins.

    “Anything you need, Young Master Mu, just say the word! We’re at your service!”

    Mu Zhi’an smiled, pushed open the manor gate, and entered.

    As expected, it was Ye Yu and Bai Ruoxi in the courtyard.

    Ye Yu was clearly furious, but he kept his fists clenched, as if restraining himself.

    Bai Ruoxi, her beautiful face devoid of emotion, stared at him. Her white dress clung to her curves, accentuating her alluring figure. She remained silent, handing him a document.

    “Young Master Ye, I have no wish to make an enemy of you. However, I truly do not desire this marriage,” she said softly.

    Ye Yu’s fists tightened, his eyes burning with rage. He forced himself to remain calm. “Miss Bai, the tables will turn one day! Don’t bully the young and poor!”

    “I will repay this humiliation a hundredfold!”

    He was convinced that she was breaking off their engagement because she had set her sights on Mu Zhi’an.

    But he would make her regret this decision.

    With his newfound talent, he would surpass the Mu family one day.

    Bai Ruoxi frowned, but didn’t respond.

    Suddenly, a loud clap echoed from the entrance.

    “‘Don’t bully the young and poor,’ you say? You certainly have confidence in your talent, Young Master Ye.”

    Ye Yu turned to see Mu Zhi’an standing at the gate, applauding. His tone sounded genuinely impressed.

    “Mu Zhi’an.”

    Ye Yu’s eyes narrowed as he watched Mu Zhi’an approach them.

     

  • It turns out, they are the protagonists chapter 19

    Chapter 19: Master Gongsun, A True Genius at Playing Dumb 

    At that moment, the black-robed man stood on the roof of a building, overlooking the bustling streets below. A wave of anger surged through him.

    He had intended to sit back and watch the Mu and Gongsun families tear each other apart, but somehow, he had become the scapegoat, the supposed killer of Gongsun Zan.

    And the Gongsun family had even corroborated the story. That was what infuriated him the most.

    Mu Zhi’an had killed their third son!

    Why would they cover for him?

    The black-robed man’s eyes narrowed, his mind racing.

    When two enemies suddenly became allies, there could only be one explanation.

    They had a common enemy.

    And who was that common enemy?

    The answer was obvious.

    “That little bastard played me,” the black-robed man growled, his face darkening.

    This wasn’t good. If the Mu and Gongsun families joined forces, it would complicate his plans.

    His gaze fell upon the back entrance of a manor.

    A voluptuous woman emerged from the manor, followed by a man. The man placed his hand on her backside, and they whispered to each other, their bodies pressed close.

    Bai Yuanfeng.

    The black-robed man watched them, a sinister smile spreading across his face.

    …

    “Why is this young lady still agonizing over whether to run away from home?”

    Mu Zhi’an leaned back in his chair, unfolding the paper crane that had just flown through his window. He examined the elegant handwriting, a sigh escaping his lips.

    Ever since he’d first replied to the crane’s owner a few days ago, he had received a response almost every day.

    The messages were always similar, filled with declarations of wanting to break free from her family’s constraints, of needing to escape and experience the world.

    However, whenever he asked where she was, the answer was always the same:

    “I haven’t left yet.”

    Mu Zhi’an: “…”

    She was all talk and no action.

    But it didn’t matter to him.

    He had realized his role was to be a listener, to offer a sympathetic ear.

    He didn’t mind spending time replying to her messages.

    It was a harmless way to pass the time.

    Even though he still didn’t know who she was or where she was from.

    He finished writing his reply, folded the paper into a crane, and tossed it out the window.

    Then, a thought struck him. He turned to Wei Mengrou. “Mengrou, do you know where that crane flies to every time?”

    The tall, aloof beauty stood silently in the shadows of the study, her long, black hair cascading down her back, a single strand framing her delicate face, lending her an air of alluring elegance.

    She looked in the direction the crane had flown, then shook her head.

    “It’s impossible to determine its destination based on direction alone.”

    “Then perhaps, when we have some free time, we could take a walk and follow the crane?” Mu Zhi’an suggested.

    “Just say you want me to investigate its origin. There’s no need to beat around the bush,” Wei Mengrou replied, her voice cool and indifferent.

    Mu Zhi’an shook his head. “That’s not the same. Investigating the crane is just a bonus. We could stroll together, chat, strengthen our bond as master and servant… What do you say?”

    Wei Mengrou hesitated, then nodded slightly. “Perhaps another time.”

    She seemed eager to change the subject. “Your prediction was correct. Public opinion shifted this morning,” she said.

    “People are seeing you in a different light now. They believe you’re well, still obsessed with women, but also a righteous man.”

    “You could use this opportunity to further improve your image in the eyes of the citizens.”

    She couldn’t help but feel a sense of disbelief.

    Mu Zhi’an had done so many terrible things… While not unforgivable, his reputation had been abysmal.

    Yet, simply by preventing Gongsun Zan from assaulting the young lady from the Chen Manor, his past misdeeds seemed to have been forgotten. A new, shining image had been erected in their place.

    In the past, people had avoided him on the streets. Now, they whispered amongst themselves, praising his actions.

    If he continued performing good deeds, he might even shed his label as a “wastrel.”

    Mu Zhi’an shook his head. “There’s no need to go out of my way to do good deeds or change people’s perception of me.”

    Wei Mengrou raised an eyebrow. “Wouldn’t it be nice to be liked, to have a good reputation?”

    “It would be nice, but not entirely nice,” Mu Zhi’an replied, quoting a famous line from a Mao Dun Literature Prize-winning novel.

    Wei Mengrou stared at him, confused.

    “In every era, people love to create idols,” Mu Zhi’an explained. “But there are no true idols in this world. They might worship you today, see you as a beacon of hope, praise you to the heavens. But the moment they discover a flaw, even a minor one, they’ll tear down the facade and turn on you.”

    “The moment you become a public figure, your flaws are magnified tenfold, even a hundredfold.”

    “That’s why I hate being praised. I don’t need people labeling me as a hero.”

    He was just a simple man with simple desires, particularly for Wei Mengrou and Bai Ruoxi… Building a perfect image in the eyes of others was pointless. He might be a hero today, but a minor slip-up could turn him into a villain tomorrow.

    “Take you, for example, Mengrou. Let’s say you’re suddenly declared the most beautiful woman in Tianxuan City. Everyone loves you, admires you. Then, one day, a rumor spreads that you’re having an affair with your master. Whether it’s true or not, people will start gossiping.”

    Wei Mengrou lowered her gaze, pondering his words.

    “Is this what you meant yesterday? That people only seek entertainment and don’t care about the truth?”

    Mu Zhi’an nodded, smiling.

    “The Gongsun family confirmed your story today. They announced that you didn’t kill Gongsun Zan, that it was the black-robed man,” Wei Mengrou said suddenly.

    “I know,” Mu Zhi’an replied.

    Wei Mengrou opened her mouth to speak, then hesitated.

    Mu Zhi’an looked at her, his lips curving into a smile. “You’re wondering why they would do that, aren’t you, Mengrou?”

    Wei Mengrou nodded hesitantly.

    “Gongsun Xiong is helping himself,” Mu Zhi’an explained.

    “He’s the reason the Gongsun family is so powerful in Tianxuan City.”

    “He’s a smart man. And smart people know when to play dumb.”

    Gongsun Xiong might have suspected that Mu Zhi’an was responsible for his son’s death. No, he probably knew the truth.

    But he chose to turn a blind eye.

    After all, money and immediate gains were insignificant compared to the future of the Gongsun family.

    The black-robed man was the true enemy.

    Suddenly, Wei Mengrou fell silent. She concealed her presence, melting into the shadows near the bookshelf by the window.

    Before Mu Zhi’an could ask what was wrong, a wave of killing intent washed over him from outside.

    The next moment, a man in plain robes and a wide-brimmed hat entered the study.

    His height, build, and the sinister aura surrounding him revealed his identity. It was the black-robed man who wanted Ye Yu.

    He’s not even wearing his black robes anymore… Mu Zhi’an thought to himself, stifling a laugh as he studied the man.

    He cleared his throat, feigning seriousness. “Why are you here so early? Didn’t we agree that you’d give me three days to deal with the Gongsun family?”

    “You certainly know how to shift blame, Young Master Mu,” the black-robed man growled, his voice laced with anger. “You’ve pinned everything on me, leaving yourself free and clear.”

    Mu Zhi’an’s expression remained unchanged. He met the man’s gaze calmly.

    The black-robed man was furious, but the fact that he hadn’t attacked meant he still understood the importance of their deal. Ye Yu must be incredibly important to him… Mu Zhi’an thought to himself.

    He smiled pleasantly. “Calm down. I would have preferred a better solution, but this was the only way to resolve the situation quickly.”

    “Blaming everything on me is your solution?” the black-robed man spat, his eyes narrowed dangerously.

    If Mu Zhi’an didn’t offer a satisfactory explanation, he couldn’t guarantee what he might do.

    “Since you’re an outsider, you shouldn’t care about what the citizens of Tianxuan City think, right?” Mu Zhi’an asked with a smile.

    “We’re partners. I’m giving you Ye Yu. Surely you can take a little bit of blame for me.”

    The black-robed man snorted, his eyes flickering.

    Mu Zhi’an was right. He didn’t care about being the scapegoat.

    But it still infuriated him. However, he needed Mu Zhi’an’s cooperation, so he had no choice but to swallow his anger and accept the blame.

    “When are you taking Ye Yu to the Dragon Head Forest?” he asked, his voice low and menacing.

    Mu Zhi’an considered this for a moment. “Security will be tight in the city for the next few days. Let’s say two days from now.”

    The black-robed man’s expression softened slightly. “Since we’re partners, Young Master Mu, I’ll share some information with you.”

    Why do you have so much information… And how did those pathetic villains in those stories ever lose to the “protagonist” with all this intel… Mu Zhi’an thought to himself, his gaze fixed on the black-robed man, waiting for him to continue.

    “The Bai and Gongsun families are not enemies,” the black-robed man said.

    Mu Zhi’an stared at him, his jaw dropping in surprise.

    The Gongsun family had been relentlessly targeting the Bai family. And now he was saying they weren’t enemies?

    “The Bai family matriarch just visited the Gongsun Manor,” the black-robed man added.

    That simple statement contained a wealth of information. Mu Zhi’an was stunned.

    Then, a strange look crossed his face.

    He had a suspicion… a rather audacious one.

     

  • It turns out, they are the protagonists chapter 18

    Chapter 18: Black-Robed Man: NMSL* 

    The next morning.

    Bai Manor, side hall. Bai Ruoxi, clad in a white dress that accentuated her curvaceous figure, sat sipping tea, her demeanor refined and elegant.

    Beside her, a beautiful woman, who resembled Bai Ruoxi but with a few more wrinkles around her eyes, also held a teacup.

    The woman, dressed in a more mature style that highlighted her voluptuous figure, possessed a charming and alluring face, like a blooming peony.

    She set down her cup, her mood clearly cheerful. She turned to her daughter and smiled. “See, Ruoxi? I told you that boy from the Mu family wouldn’t be able to resist you.”

    Bai Ruoxi shook her head. “It wasn’t because of me, Mother. Young Master Mu simply had his own reasons for helping the Bai family.”

    Yes… saving the Bai family was merely a side effect.

    Mu Zhi’an’s true goal wasn’t to rescue them, but to shift the conflict.

    To redirect the Gongsun family’s animosity from himself to the black-robed man.

    Bai Yuanfeng looked at her daughter knowingly. “Ruoxi, be honest with your mother. Did Mu Zhi’an do anything to you?”

    Bai Ruoxi blushed, glaring at her mother. “Mother! What are you saying? Young Master Mu hasn’t done anything inappropriate!”

    Bai Yuanfeng was confused. “That’s strange. Does he really have no interest in you?”

    “He said that I’m not a bargaining chip… because I’m a person,” Bai Ruoxi replied, watching her mother’s reaction closely. There was a hint of hope in her eyes, as if she wanted her mother to contradict Mu Zhi’an’s words.

    Bai Yuanfeng chuckled. “Ruoxi, men always say things like that. Don’t take it to heart. Those are just empty words.”

    Bai Ruoxi fell silent, then nodded slowly.

    Whether Mu Zhi’an’s words were sincere or not, he had said them. And he had acted accordingly.

    They had only held hands. Nothing more.

    Any other man would have taken advantage of the situation, especially during their first encounter in the carriage.

    “Mother, the Bai family might have a reprieve for now, but eventually, the Gongsun family and the Morning Glory Chamber of Commerce will…”

    Bai Ruoxi paused. “Since the Meridian Connecting Pill won’t be of any use to us for several years… perhaps we should use it to negotiate?”

    She looked at her mother, her eyes filled with a desperate hope.

    However, Bai Yuanfeng’s answer shattered her hopes.

    “Don’t be ridiculous, Ruoxi. The Meridian Connecting Pill might be useless to us, but we can’t give it to the Mu family. If they use it to help one of their own reach the Nascent Soul Realm, the Bai family will be doomed.”

    Bai Yuanfeng took a sip of tea and glanced at her daughter.

    “You should just focus on marrying into the Mu family. Once we’re in-laws, all our problems will be solved.”

    Bai Ruoxi remained silent, sipping her tea.

    Bai Yuanfeng looked at her daughter curiously. “You know, you used to be dead set against marrying Mu Zhi’an… but lately, you don’t seem as opposed to the idea.”

    Bai Ruoxi’s eyes flickered. “It’s not like I have a choice, do I?” she murmured.

    She didn’t know if it was resignation or something else… but she wasn’t as repulsed by the idea of marrying Mu Zhi’an as she had been before.

    “Speaking of which, why do you think the Gongsun family and the Chamber of Commerce have stopped targeting us?” Bai Yuanfeng asked suddenly.

    She’d only heard from her daughter that the Bai family was safe for now. She didn’t know the details.

    “It has something to do with the raid on the Chen Manor yesterday” Bai Ruoxi replied.

    Bai Yuanfeng pondered this. “I did hear from the servants that Gongsun Zan led a raid yesterday and ended up being killed by Mu Zhi’an.”

    “Are you saying they’ve shifted their focus to the Mu family? But they wouldn’t dare” Bai Yuanfeng looked at her daughter, confused.

    “It’s because the Gongsun family, the Chamber of Commerce, and even the Mu family have a new enemy,” Bai Ruoxi explained.

    “Gongsun Zan was actually killed by a mysterious black-robed cultivator.”

    Bai Yuanfeng was skeptical. “You’re saying that there’s a twist to the story? Mu Zhi’an didn’t kill him? Someone else did?”

    Bai Ruoxi nodded.

    Bai Yuanfeng shook her head. “Impossible. Even if the citizens believe that, the Gongsun family won’t.”

    Just then, a maid rushed into the room. “Madam, Miss!”

    “Why are you so flustered?” Bai Yuanfeng scolded.

    Then, remembering that they didn’t have many servants left, she softened her tone. “What is it? Why are you panicking?”

    “It’s about Gongsun Zan…” the maid replied.

    Bai Yuanfeng set down her cup. “I already know what happened yesterday. There’s no need to repeat it.”

    “It’s not about yesterday. It’s about something that happened this morning,” the maid said. “There’s been a… twist to the story.”

    Bai Yuanfeng’s eyes widened. “What twist?”

    Could it be that what her daughter had said was true? That Mu Zhi’an wasn’t responsible…?

    But regardless of who was responsible, Gongsun Xiong would surely use this opportunity to cause trouble and demand compensation.

    “Young Master Mu didn’t kill Gongsun Zan. He was simply trying to protect the woman. The one who actually killed Gongsun Zan was a mysterious black-robed cultivator.”

    “Are you sure about this?” Bai Yuanfeng asked, her voice laced with disbelief.

    The maid nodded. “The Gongsun family confirmed it this morning. The young lady from the Chen Manor, the servants, and even the Gongsun family servants all testified that there was indeed a black-robed man present.”

    Bai Yuanfeng was stunned.

    There really was a black-robed man?

    But if that was true, why would the Gongsun family corroborate Mu Zhi’an’s story?

    She snapped out of her thoughts and dismissed the maid. She took a sip of tea, her mind racing.

    Moments later, she rose to her feet and left the side hall. She went to her room and carefully applied her makeup, then hurried out of the Bai Manor.

    …

    Meanwhile, the news of the mysterious black-robed cultivator’s involvement in Gongsun Zan’s death had spread throughout Tianxuan City.

    That morning, the inns and teahouses were buzzing with speculation about the black-robed man’s identity.

    People praised Mu Zhi’an for his heroism, condemning Gongsun Zan’s cruelty. Then, they turned their attention to the black-robed man, wondering who he was and what he looked like beneath his concealing robes.

    Just as Mu Zhi’an had predicted, no one cared about how Gongsun Zan had actually died.

    As the city buzzed with gossip, a man in black robes descended the stairs of an inn.

    His face was hidden beneath his hood. As he walked down, he overheard the conversations of the patrons.

    “I told you, Young Master Mu might be a playboy, but he would never do something like assault a woman.”

    “I said it yesterday, he intervened because he couldn’t stand to watch Gongsun Zan’s cruelty.”

    “Young Master Mu might have a questionable past, but he’s a good person at heart.”

    “Only the Mu family could get away with something like this. Any other family would be facing the Gongsun family’s wrath right now,” someone remarked.

    “Well, he still frequents the pleasure quarters. He’s not exactly a saint,” someone muttered, clearly still harboring a grudge against Mu Zhi’an.

    A burly man, who had been drinking since early morning, laughed heartily. “Don’t be so uptight! The young master stood up for what’s right! So what if he visits the pleasure quarters? If a beautiful courtesan showed up at your door, you wouldn’t hesitate to invite her in!”

    The other patrons roared with laughter. The inn was filled with a cheerful atmosphere.

    The black-robed man, hidden among them, sneered inwardly.

    He was running out of time, but there was nothing he could do. He had to wait for Mu Zhi’an.

    At least he had some entertainment.

    Watching the Gongsun and Mu families tear each other apart was quite amusing.

    “Speaking of which, who do you think that black-robed man is? To think he’d dare to kill Gongsun Zan,” someone said.

    “Anyone who would attack a member of the Gongsun family must be either incredibly powerful or from outside the city, unaware of the Gongsun family’s influence,” another replied.

    “I wonder what he looks like…”

    As the last words left the speaker’s lips, the chatter in the inn died down. Countless eyes turned towards the black-robed man descending the stairs.

    Whispers erupted.

    “Look at him”

    “Black robes… Sinister aura… Could he be the black-robed man the Gongsun family is searching for…?”

    That morning, the Gongsun family had issued a bounty. Whoever captured the black-robed man would be rewarded with ten thousand taels of gold. Even information about his whereabouts would fetch a thousand taels.

    To the patrons of the inn, the black-robed man was walking gold.

    The black-robed man frowned, noticing their hostile gazes and hearing their whispers.

    He froze for a moment, then realization dawned. He cursed inwardly, tossed a few silver coins on the table, and hurried out of the inn.

    Several cultivators, their eyes gleaming with greed, followed him, but he had vanished by the time they reached the entrance.

    From that day forward, no one in Tianxuan City dared to wear black robes.

     

     

    NMSL(1)*: Chinese internet slang term. It is a highly offensive and vulgar … translates to “Your mother is dead” in English.

    -It is often used by internet users in China to insult or provoke others during heated online arguments or disputes.

  • It turns out, they are the protagonists chapter 17

    Chapter 17: The Mindset of the Onlookers

    Mu Manor.

    Back at the manor, Mu Zhi’an sat in his study, a book in hand. He lit the candles on his desk and immersed himself in reading.

    After an unknown amount of time, the candle flames flickered, and a gust of cold wind swept through the window, extinguishing them.

    The room was plunged into darkness. Mu Zhi’an set down his book, stretched, and said, “Coming to the Mu Manor at night? That’s not your style.”

    Unhurriedly, he relit the candles and turned to see the black-robed man standing in his study, his gaze fixed on him. “Your actions today were reckless, Young Master Mu,” the man said, his voice low and dangerous.

    Killing Gongsun Zan had caused a city-wide uproar. The authorities would undoubtedly increase patrols, which could interfere with Mu Zhi’an’s plan to lure Ye Yu out.

    And he, the black-robed man, didn’t have time to waste.

    Mu Zhi’an sighed. “I know, I know. I just lost my temper. It was an accident.”

    The black-robed man stared at him, his eyes cold and piercing. He studied the young master’s seemingly remorseful expression. “Can it still be done?” he asked, his voice laced with a threat.

    That was all he cared about. He didn’t care about Gongsun Zan’s cruelty, Ye Yu’s role in this, or who ended up with Bai Ruoxi.

    All he wanted was Ye Yu.

    “Yes,” Mu Zhi’an replied, nodding. “But I’ll need another two or three days.”

    “I need some time to smooth things over.”

    “Very well.” The black-robed man nodded, his gaze lingering on Mu Zhi’an. “You seem confident, Young Master Mu. You truly believe you can resolve this mess within three days?”

    Mu Zhi’an chuckled. “That’s not your concern.”

    The black-robed man snorted, clearly displeased with Mu Zhi’an’s actions.

    “Then I hope you succeed in calming the storm, Young Master Mu, and claim your prize.”

    With that, he turned and vanished into thin air.

    Mu Zhi’an sat in silence for a moment, unmoving.

    “He’s gone.”

    Wei Mengrou’s voice, clear and crisp, broke the silence. Mu Zhi’an finally relaxed.

    He turned to see her standing in the corner, her goose-yellow dress blending into the shadows.

    The candlelight illuminated her delicate features, her expression as impassive as ever. She was a vision of beauty, her long, black hair cascading down her back, her slender waist accentuated by a silk sash, her ample bosom straining against the fabric of her dress. Her long legs were perfectly proportioned, and her feet were clad in simple, elegant boots.

    She was the embodiment of every man’s fantasy.

    Unfortunately, she was a Core Formation expert. Even her master couldn’t touch her without her consent.

    If only Mengrou wasn’t a Core Formation cultivator… Mu Zhi’an sighed inwardly.

    Of course, despite his fantasies, he was grateful for her presence.

    The black-robed man, a Core Formation expert, was a formidable threat. But with Wei Mengrou by his side, he felt a sense of security.

    After all…

    When it came to size, Mengrou was definitely superior.

    Mu Zhi’an’s gaze lingered on her curvaceous figure.

    “Seen enough?” Wei Mengrou asked, her voice cool and indifferent, as if she could sense his gaze.

    Would you let me continue staring if I said no… Mu Zhi’an thought to himself, then cleared his throat, changing the subject. “Where’s Gongsun Xiong?”

    “Elder Ren is entertaining him in the side hall. He should be leaving soon,” Wei Mengrou replied.

    The black-robed man had made a fatal mistake from the very beginning.

    His information was faulty. He hadn’t known that the Mu family had two Core Formation experts.

    From the moment he’d barged into the Mu Manor, his every move had been transparent. Mu Zhi’an had been watching him, playing him like a fiddle.

    “Gongsun Xiong couldn’t hear our conversation, could he?” Mu Zhi’an asked.

    “Of course not. I set up a barrier to block the sound,” Wei Mengrou replied.

    She paused, then added, “However, he’s aware of the black-robed man’s presence.”

    Mu Zhi’an nodded. “That’s enough.”

    There were less than ten Core Formation experts in Tianxuan City, and the three families knew each other’s strengths.

    The presence of an unknown Core Formation expert lurking in the shadows was enough to alarm them all.

    At this point, it didn’t matter who had killed Gongsun Zan.

    Eliminating the black-robed man was the priority.

    “The Gongsun family might set aside their grievances for now because of this black-robed man… But what about the citizens of Tianxuan City?” Wei Mengrou asked suddenly.

    “As long as the Gongsun family doesn’t care, it’s fine.”

    Mu Zhi’an set down his teacup and smiled. “As for public opinion… It’s not a problem.”

    “You’re going to ignore it?” Wei Mengrou frowned.

    The city was filled with rumors. Some condemned Gongsun Zan, praising Mu Zhi’an for his actions. Others questioned Mu Zhi’an’s motives, while some wished both of them dead.

    If these rumors were allowed to spread unchecked, Mu Zhi’an’s reputation would be tarnished.

    But he hadn’t done anything wrong. At least, that’s what Wei Mengrou believed.

    “We can’t completely ignore public opinion. But we don’t need to do much. The wind will change soon,” Mu Zhi’an said confidently.

    Wei Mengrou understood his meaning. “You’re planning to manipulate public opinion…? The people of Tianxuan City aren’t fools, Young Master Mu. They won’t be easily swayed.”

    Mu Zhi’an nodded. “Of course, I know that. They’re not stupid.”

    “But whether they’re stupid or not is irrelevant. They don’t actually care about the truth.”

    Wei Mengrou didn’t believe him. “Are you sure about that?”

    “Absolutely.”

    Mu Zhi’an picked up a paper crane from his desk.

    “All they care about is whether the story is exciting, whether it offers them something to gossip about, something to entertain them. The truth, the feelings of those involved… Few people care about those things. It’s human nature.”

    Wei Mengrou stared at him, stunned.

    After a long silence, she spoke, her voice soft. “You truly understand the human heart.”

    Actually, I’m more interested in understanding your heart, Mengrou… Mu Zhi’an thought to himself, his gaze lingering on her beautiful face and curvaceous figure.

    “Is there anything else you need me to do?” Wei Mengrou asked.

    Mu Zhi’an shook his head. “Just relax and have some tea, Mengrou. Chat with me.”

    “As for Gongsun Zan… the winds of change are coming.”

    “How?” Wei Mengrou asked instinctively.

    Mu Zhi’an smiled, keeping her in suspense. “In the most dramatic way possible.”

  • Mistaken Era chapter 26

    Chapter 26

    Although she sounded cold, Xiao Xiao immediately looked at Wei Jie’s back.

    During the fight just now, Wei Jie had indeed protected her a few times. At that time, she seemed to hear him groaning. Thinking about it now, he must have been scratched on the back…

    But Wei Jie turned away with a cold face and didn’t let her see. He kicked the howling corpse-eating beast to sit on a large rock nearby.

    Unfortunately, they were chained together. Xiao Xiao was dragged by him and had to raise her head with effort to look at his back.

    Oh my, it was indeed quite injured!

    After Wei Jie sat down, Xiao Xiao quickly took out the medicine she carried with her, preparing to help Wei Jie take off his clothes so she could apply it for him.

    But Wei Jie pulled his clothes and said, “It’s alright. The wound will heal on its own in a while. Your medicine is so precious. It’s better to save it for your Mr. Tang.”

    Xiao Xiao took a closer look and indeed, the inch-long wound that looked ferocious just now had mostly healed in this short time.

    He was a mixed-blood of human and demon. His self-healing ability was unmatched. As long as it was a minor flesh wound, it could heal on its own.

    Tang Youshu didn’t know about the undercurrent between his master and grand-master. He just heard Wei Jie agree and kowtowed to Cui Xiao Xiao and Wei Jie repeatedly. Then he happily became the fourth-generation grand disciple of the Talisman Sect.

    Seeing the lineage of the Talisman Sect becoming more and more skewed, Xiao Xiao thought about how to write names on the sect’s genealogy and felt a headache.

    This former demonic ancestor had now become her disciple, and her former benefactor had become her grand-disciple!

    This distorted lineage of inheritance in Lingshan Talisman Sect could only be kept secret. When she found a way to set things right and return to two hundred years later, she would definitely go to her master’s grave to burn incense and kowtow, admitting her mistake properly.

    But now she had at least remedied some things. At the very least, she let Master Tang Youshu acknowledge Wei Jie as his master, following the original trajectory.

    While secretly breathing a sigh of relief, Xiao Xiao pointed at the dog rubbing against Wei Jie’s pant leg and asked, “How should we deal with this corpse-eating beast?”

    This time, Wei Jie didn’t act up with Xiao Xiao. He kicked the dog’s butt again and said lazily, “It’s not a creature of the yang realm. It must be sent back to the underworld quickly. Otherwise, if it absorbs too much yang energy, it can only return when the ghost gate opens wide during the ghost month.”

    After saying that, he picked up the deliberately fawning big-mouthed dog and shook it hard. Many black sesame-sized dots actually fell off its body.

    According to Wei Jie, these were all corpse fleas on the corpse-eating beast. If they were raised and crushed, they would be a rare sacred medicine for healing wounds.

    So Xiao Xiao watched him catch the sesame-sized dots one by one and put them in a small porcelain bottle.

    Xiao Xiao couldn’t help but shudder and reminded Wei Jie to put away the bottle properly. Otherwise, since they were together every day now, if they got on her body, it would be disgusting.

    Since they had to send the corpse-eating beast back, they naturally needed the permission of the Wei Family. Otherwise, outsiders were absolutely not allowed to approach the intersection of yin and yang.

    Wei Jie had no interest in seeing the Wei Family people again. He just tied the rope restraining the corpse-eating beast to the demon-suppressing stone statue in front of the Wei Family’s door, then walked far away and threw a pebble to knock on the door.

    When the Wei Family guards opened the door, there seemed to be nothing in front of the door except a moving rope.

    When Wei Jingfeng came to the front of the door, he naturally smelled the rotten stench of the corpse-eating beast and knew that the invisible corpse-eating beast was tied to the rope.

    In his pleasant surprise, he looked around but couldn’t see the person who sent this exotic beast back…

    But the whip tied around the beast’s neck was clearly Jie’er’s… Wei Jingfeng held the whip in his hand. Thinking of the harsh words he had said to his nephew earlier, his heart was filled with mixed feelings at this moment…

    That child actually listened to his mother’s words and went to catch the corpse-eating beast alone…

    As for the three impromptu ancestor, master, and disciple of the Talisman Sect, after leaving Qilao Mountain, they were a bit aimless.

    Although it was only a little more than two hundred years apart, the world had changed beyond recognition. Everywhere was unfamiliar.

    Cui Xiao Xiao tried hard to recall the stone cave where she originally found the statue, but she couldn’t locate the place name on the sheepskin map from two hundred years ago. Because many places had very different names after two hundred years.

    In this case, they could only slowly explore and advance, hoping that the changes around that stone cave would not be too great, making it easier to find. But she didn’t know if the statue was in the stone cave at this time.

    Xiao Xiao felt that the hope was slim, but she could only give it a try.

    In addition to finding the statue, another urgent matter was to find Qin Lingxiao and let him hand over the key to unlock the Soul Locking Shackle on her hand!

    Xiao Xiao hadn’t bathed for a full five days now, and she didn’t even dare to eat or drink too much.

    It wasn’t that she had transcended the mortal world and no longer felt hunger or thirst. She couldn’t resist it at first and had done it once or twice. It was really embarrassing enough to wish for the world to end!

    Even if Wei Jie obediently turned his head and stuffed his ears with cotton cloth, it was no use.

    By the same token, when it was Wei Jie’s turn to relieve himself, Xiao Xiao also had to close her eyes and listen to the sound of the spring water with him. Such an experience was something she wished to immediately forget.

    So when it came to eating and drinking, Xiao Xiao not only ate less herself but also had to keep an eye on Wei Jie, asking him to restrain himself and not eat or drink too much.

    However, Wei Jie obviously wasn’t troubled by this kind of mental knot. Under Xiao Xiao’s sharp gaze, he calmly drank another large bowl of soup.

    As soon as he finished drinking, his grand-disciple Tang Youshu diligently filled another bowl for his master Wei Jie.

    Xiao Xiao didn’t dare to scold Tang Youshu and could only whisper to Wei Jie, “Drink less, otherwise later…”

    Wei Jie’s mouth curved into a smile. He also filled a bowl of lotus root and peanut soup for Xiao Xiao.

    “Master, you should drink more. I see that you have been irritable these past two days. Every time, it’s just a trickle and not very smooth. This is because you’re too dry. You need to nourish yourself well!”

    Xiao Xiao looked at him silently, slowly wrapping her gaze around his neck and then forcefully tightening it!

    At the same time, she cursed Qin Lingxiao, the culprit, in her heart again!

    In the past few days, forced by the situation, Xiao Xiao had already started to practice abstinence from grains early on. For cultivators, every critical moment of enhancing the qi in the dantian, fasting and abstaining from grains are very beneficial.

    However, not every newly initiated cultivator can persist.

    You should know that the delicacies of the human world are the most difficult to give up. Even those who have ascended to immortality sometimes come to the human world to sneak a bite.

    But at this time, Xiao Xiao had nothing she couldn’t give up. She wished she could abstain from grains and ascend to immortality in one go, staying far away from this annoying mortal world.

    With no desires or pursuits, she actually managed to abstain from grains for a few days on and off.

    Wei Jie was not as ambitious as Xiao Xiao. He smiled and looked at his master’s “affectionate” gaze, leisurely picking up a chicken leg and biting into it.

    Among the three of them, Tang Youshu was the one with money, so along the way, they would choose a decent restaurant in the village to eat and rest. Almost every meal had wine and meat.

    As for why Tang Youshu was so generous, there was a reason.

    He was born into a family of famous doctors. At a young age, he was already able to take pulses and diagnose illnesses. That time he went to Qilao Mountain, it was to collect unique herbs on the mountain. He accidentally fell into the valley.

    He wanted to break free from the shackles of the mortal body and cultivate the way of immortality. Along the way, he earned money by practicing medicine and seeking famous masters.

    According to Tang Youshu, his best-selling product was the ancestral aphrodisiac ointment. Just one patch on the upper abdomen could invigorate a man’s vitality and make him vigorous like a newlywed. It’s just that the formula was complex and needed to be hot compressed before use, which was quite troublesome. If it could be simplified, it would sell even better.

    Hearing this, Xiao Xiao sighed in her heart. It turned out that her old master had been making a fortune with this kind of aphrodisiac plaster since he was young.

    Thinking about it, the treasure that made the most money for the Talisman Sect later – the Infatuation Talisman, her master had indeed been consistent over these two hundred years, striding forward on the path of benefiting men all over the world.

    Xiao Xiao had been looking forward to such generous and casual ordering of meals for a long time, but she didn’t expect that a chain was even more hateful than the Gold Consuming Curse, making her not dare to eat or drink.

    Wei Jie’s style was quite established. Every meal must have meat and wine, very carefree and leisurely.

    Xiao Xiao ate very little. Every time, she would enter a meditative state early. Unfortunately, she was shackled to Wei Jie. When she meditated, Wei Jie would lie beside her and sleep, listening to the snoring rising and falling, which greatly affected her meditation.

    If she didn’t meditate, her stomach would also gurgle. Xiao Xiao decided that she still had to take up the responsibility of a master and urge her “unruly disciple” to make some progress.

    But when she pulled Wei Jie up and asked him to meditate with her, Wei Jie stretched and yawned, “Master doesn’t teach me any skills. I don’t know what to practice either.”

    In the past few days, he saw Xiao Xiao teaching Tang Youshu how to draw talismans in her spare time and also teaching him breathing techniques. It was a scene of deep affection between father and daughter.

    This grand-master happily taught her grand-disciple, overstepping her authority. But the Sect Master of the Talisman Sect had no intention of teaching her legitimate eldest disciple.

    Although Wei Jie originally had ulterior motives when taking her as his master and didn’t really want to learn skills from Xiao Xiao, now being contrasted by Tang Youshu, losing the fight for the master’s favor, he inevitably felt psychologically unbalanced and a bit unpleasant.

    Hearing Wei Jie’s words, Xiao Xiao nodded.

    That’s right. Since she had taken on the title of his master, if she didn’t teach anything, it would seem ungracious.

    However, if she taught him the skills of the Talisman Sect and he returned to his own life trajectory in the future, gradually walking the demonic path, wouldn’t it tarnish the reputation of Lingshan Talisman Sect?

    Xiao Xiao thought and thought, and decided to teach him the skills of the Four Great Sects. He had a deep grudge with the Four Great Cultivation Sects. In the future, when they inevitably meet on a narrow path, he could fight fire with fire if he knew both himself and the enemy.

    As for how to teach, Xiao Xiao was not worried. After all, Ancestor Wei Jie himself had summarized it systematically. She just needed to follow the example and pass on the cultivation methods of other sects summarized by Wei Jie himself to Wei Jie.

    And among the Four Great Sects, the qi shield of Wonderful Immortal Mountain was actually the most practical. Xiao Xiao didn’t want to teach the future Demon King skills to harm others. The qi shield could be used for self-defense and protection, which was most suitable.

    Wei Jie sat cross-legged opposite Xiao Xiao, listening to her proficiently explaining the method of condensing the qi shield of Wonderful Immortal Mountain. Suddenly, he asked, “Why are you so familiar with the shortcomings of the techniques of the Four Great Sects and even know their cultivation methods? What connection do you have with the Four Great Sects?”

    When asking this, Wei Jie’s purple eyes gleaming with light slightly narrowed, staring intently at Cui Xiao Xiao.

    Although the future Demon Venerable’s demonic arts were not yet perfected, his aura was gradually emerging. When he stared at someone, it was a bit hard to withstand his gaze.

    However, Cui Xiao Xiao had followed her adoptive father to deceive people since she was a child. The title of “Thousand-Faced Beauty” on the streets was not in vain. She firmly met the gaze of the future Demon Venerable and said sincerely, “The cultivation of the Four Great Sects is shallow and easily seen through. How can it compare to the vastness and profundity of our Talisman Sect? But to practice the profound teachings of the Talisman Sect, one must first learn the ways of the Four Great Sects. Here, I’ve passed on the techniques to you. You can slowly comprehend them yourself.”

    Actually, Xiao Xiao knew that the Four Great Sects could become major cultivation sects. How could their skills be learned just by saying they could be learned?

    The Wei Jie from two hundred years ago, because of resisting the snake poison, had a fortuitous encounter and his cultivation greatly advanced, giving him a solid foundation. No matter what he practiced, he could handle it with ease.

    But the current Wei Jie, due to her interference, was still an ordinary fellow.

    Although he had comprehended some unorthodox methods relying on his intelligence and talent, it was a bit of a pipe dream to think he could cultivate the profound teachings of the Four Great Sects just from her brief instruction.

    Xiao Xiao just wanted to deal with her obedient disciple, so he wouldn’t keep disturbing her meditation.

    However, Wei Jie actually put on the appearance of a teachable child and really sat beside Xiao Xiao, closing his eyes and entering meditation.

    Xiao Xiao secretly opened her eyes and observed the man beside her. His meditation posture was not standard, with his arms casually placed on his crossed long legs, and his waist was not very straight. Rather than meditating, it was more like taking a nap.

    But his appearance and figure were outstanding. No matter how he sat, he exuded an otherworldly and carefree elegance.

    Xiao Xiao really found it hard to imagine what terrifying appearance he would have when he transformed into a half-snake person covered in scales all over his body.

    After looking for a while, Xiao Xiao also closed her eyes. At least this time, Wei Jie was not poisoned. Hopefully, he could change from evil to good and commit less slaughter in the future…

    However, she didn’t know that when she closed her eyes, the man sitting opposite her slowly opened his eyes. His light purple eyes shimmered with a faint glow under the moonlight, lingering on the girl’s long curled eyelashes and perky little nose…

    Under the moonlight, with the occasional chirping of night insects, he looked enough and then closed his eyes with satisfaction. At the same time, he straightened his body, and the breath of qi circulation and breathing revolved above his head as he gradually entered meditation.

    In the past few days, they had been like this, walking during the day and cultivating at night. The pills given by the Wei Family matriarch seemed to be really effective. In the past few days, Xiao Xiao never had an attack, which also allowed her to gradually put her mind at ease.

    But it was really inconvenient to be handcuffed to Wei Jie all

    the time. Xiao Xiao still decided to go find Qin Lingxiao first and unlock the Soul Locking Shackle.

    How to get to Soaring Cloud Pavilion was another big problem.

    Xiao Xiao looked at the map for a long time and found that Soaring Cloud Pavilion seemed to be not too far from here. Fortunately, Tang Youshu often collected herbs and was quite familiar with the surrounding paths. With his help, the journey became smoother.

    Wei Jie didn’t seem to be as anxious as Xiao Xiao to find Qin Lingxiao and unlock the Soul Locking Shackle. Along the way, he walked and stopped leisurely, seeming to be quite carefree.

    This day, after finishing lunch, Wei Jie actually pulled Xiao Xiao to the Qingshui Pond far away from the village to fish.

    Xiao Xiao watched Tang Youshu being ordered by Wei Jie to buy fishing rods and bait. She couldn’t help but say, “Since you’ve become a master, you should teach your disciple some breathing techniques. You always let him buy this and buy that. What kind of master are you?”

    Wei Jie leaned against the rock by the pond, comfortably stretching his waist, his head resting on his arms, a blade of grass in his mouth, and said lazily, “If you put it that way, I’m still your disciple, right? Have you ever taught me attentively? Every day, apart from glaring at me, it’s glaring at me. What? Regretting accepting me as your disciple?”

    His appearance was too good. Even when he was casually stretching his long legs with his eyes half-closed, he looked like a picture of a beautiful person drunk.

    The bloodline of the female demon was too captivating. Xiao Xiao would inadvertently stare in a daze.

    As a result, when Wei Jie half-opened his eyes, he happened to make eye contact with Xiao Xiao.

    Xiao Xiao hurriedly turned her head away, pretending to admire the scenery by the pond. Because they were locked together, the two could never be too far apart. So when Wei Jie sat up, he was shoulder to shoulder with Xiao Xiao.

    He turned his head to look at the girl beside him. Her skin was delicate and white, her cheeks slightly flushed, and the long lashes of her big eyes were trembling slightly, like fluttering black butterflies…

    Xiao Xiao noticed that he wasn’t speaking, so she turned to look. As a result, she made close eye contact with him again.

    Cui Xiao Xiao couldn’t help but retreat slightly, asking him vigilantly, “Why are you staring at me like that?”

    Wei Jie deliberately leaned closer and lowered his head, “Master also secretly looks at me all the time. I’m your disciple. What’s there that can’t be looked at? Next time, there’s no need to be secretive…”

    Xiao Xiao would occasionally fail to resist sneaking a peek at him, but she didn’t expect him to say it so openly without giving his master any face.

    Xiao Xiao was at a loss for words for a moment, but the dignity of a master could not be lost. She just pretended to be calm, took out a handkerchief, and wiped Wei Jie’s cheek with a look of concern, “Look at you, your face is dirty again, and you still blame Master for looking at you! Jie’er, be good. Next time, don’t always be naughty and crawl into corners…”

    With that said, she still felt it wasn’t clean enough, so she spat hard on the handkerchief and wanted to continue wiping her obedient disciple’s face.

    Wei Jie’s face changed. How could he let her handkerchief touch his face? He hurriedly retreated.

    But his hand was connected to Xiao Xiao’s. With such a big movement, he pulled Xiao Xiao to fall into his arms.

    Xiao Xiao was also angered by Wei Jie and intended to teach him a lesson. Regardless of anything, she grabbed his collar and continued to press the handkerchief on Wei Jie’s face, while calling him Jie’er and disciple.

    The two made a fuss. In the eyes of outsiders, it was truly a scene of a handsome man and a beautiful woman, childhood sweethearts by the green shade of the lake.

    Unfortunately, this scene happened to fall into the eyes of the young man in the pavilion on the other side of the pond.

    Since the incident at Qilao Mountain, Qin Lingxiao didn’t hurry back to Soaring Cloud Pavilion to see his father, but came to this ravine of Mount Tuyun.

    This Mount Tuyun was said to be the birthplace of the ancestor of the Tu Tribe.

    Legend has it that Yu the Great’s wife, Tu Shan, was the incarnation of a nine-tailed white fox, a symbol of the prosperity of offspring.

    However, later on, the fox tribe gradually gave birth to demons like Daji who brought disaster to the world, and the reputation of the fox tribe gradually deteriorated.

    Therefore, the Tu Tribe gradually declined. Most of the tribesmen went into seclusion, isolating themselves from the mortal world. Even most of the descendants of the Tu Tribe removed the three waters of spirituality from their names and changed their surname to “Yu,” only seeking to no longer step into the struggle for power in the mortal world and not damage the blessings of the fox tribe any further.

    And this Mount Tuyun was the location of the spiritual spring that resonated with the spiritual energy of heaven and earth.

    Every hundred years, the spiritual spring would gush out from the ground of Mount Tuyun, allowing the younger generation of the fox tribe to drink it and seek to transform themselves.

    Even if one was not from the fox tribe, if one could drink the spiritual spring water, it would be of great benefit to one’s cultivation and skills.

    Two hundred years ago, after Wei Jie was poisoned by the snake, he unintentionally saved a fox tribe girl. That girl was grateful and led Wei Jie to Mount Tuyun. After drinking the spiritual spring, he suppressed the toxicity better and absorbed the fox tribe for his own use. From then on, he recruited soldiers and horses on the demonic path, and his strength grew day by day.

    Now, Wei Jie’s fate had been disrupted by Cui Xiao Xiao and was no longer fearsome. However, Qin Lingxiao didn’t want Wei Jie’s previous opportunities to be wasted.

    So Qin Lingxiao specially grasped the timing and appeared in the right place. He drove away the hunters and saved the fox girl Yu Ling’er, who should have been saved by Wei Jie, and was led by her to Mount Tuyun.

    This time, he wanted to seize the upper hand and not leave any chance for Wei Jie.

  • I Am a Devil, I Only Understand Transactions chapter 15

    Chapter 15: Three Times in One Night

    “No friends.” The woman shook her head lightly. “Menu… this one, this one, and this one. These three items, and a bottle of sake.”

    Those influential folks, seeing that I’m down on my luck, would rather stay far away from me.

    “Then you should still have family, right? Husband, son, daughter?” Luo Feng glanced at the menu. They were all very basic snacks.

    He walked over to the cooking area and started preparing the dishes for the woman.

    She was the first person to enjoy Luo Feng’s cooking skills. She should feel honored.

    “My husband? He’s in the ICU(Intensive Care Unit at Hospitals).” The woman shook her head.

    “What happened to your husband?” Luo Feng was a little curious.

    Your husband is in the ICU, and you still have the mood to come out for a drink? You’re quite bold.

    “Heh, he lost big in the stock market. The family’s funds couldn’t be turned over, so he directly fainted from anger.” The woman sneered. “As for my daughters… the older daughter is running around everywhere, trying to find a way; the younger daughter is like she has no heart. After becoming a police inspector, she only thinks about solving cases and can’t help with any family matters at all.”

    This year’s stock market was like it had seen a ghost. It wasn’t just her family that was hit hard.

    “How old is your younger daughter?” Seeing that the woman was very talkative, Luo Feng couldn’t help but chat with her.

    “She graduated from university less than a year ago.” The woman shook her head. “Let’s not talk about her. I just want to come and have some peace and quiet. Please don’t disturb me.”

    This woman must have been a beauty when she was young. Just didn’t know what her two daughters were like.

    Luo Feng took three dishes and walked to the woman, also opening a bottle of good wine for her. “This meal is on me.”

    “Even if my family goes bankrupt, it’s not something an izakaya can compare to.” The woman’s eyes turned cold.

    “That’s true.” Luo Feng poured the wine for her. “You’re a rare customer in my store. Actually, I can help customers solve any difficulty here, as long as you have a need.”

    “Any difficulty?” The woman sneered. “Can you save the stock market?”

    “How do you know you can’t if you don’t try?” Luo Feng stood up and smiled. “I don’t know if you’d like to see a good show.”

    “What good show?” The woman frowned slightly.

    Luo Feng stretched out his right hand.

    Snap!

    The sound of a finger snap rang out.

    The woman felt a moment of dizziness. When she reappeared, she was already on the street late at night.

    There weren’t many people on the street. In a dark corner, a young man was drinking alone.

    He had one hand in his pocket and the other holding a bottle of sake.

    The woman felt that this young man was very repressed.

    Suddenly, she discovered that she couldn’t move. This feeling greatly shocked her.

    Why? Why can’t I move?

    She was like a puppet on strings, only able to follow Luo Feng’s movements.

    No, isn’t it strange that we suddenly appeared on the street?

    “Why, why does he have so much money without having to work hard, and why do I have nothing?”

    The young man was muttering, “Damn it, Nanaka just got together with him like that. Is it because he has money?”

    He gulped down a big mouthful of sake.

    He sat on a step, dazed, not knowing what he was thinking.

    “Young man, you need salvation.” Luo Feng sat down beside him, smiling as he looked at him. “Is there anything you want?”

    The woman followed beside Luo Feng, like his maidservant.

    Various possibilities flashed through the woman’s mind. Were there really people with special abilities in this world? Or was it a god? A ghost?

    Who exactly was he?

    “Who are you?” The young man instantly became alert.

    The woman found that the young man seemed unable to see her.

    “Who I am isn’t important.” A kind smile appeared on Luo Feng’s face. “Your childhood friend went off with someone else. Have you never thought that she might really only see you as a brother?”

    “Impossible!” The young man said firmly. “I’ve been so good to her. She said she would marry me when we grew up!”

    “You looked pretty good when you were young, but when you grew up… to be honest, you’re quite ugly.” Luo Feng patted his shoulder. “Your childhood friend likes money and looks, not you.”

    The young man opened his mouth and glared at Luo Feng. “Believe it or not, I’ll beat you up.”

    She… indeed had a bit of an excessive pursuit of brand names and fashion, but that definitely wasn’t her being shallow, just a normal pursuit of quality of life.

    “I don’t believe it.” Luo Feng’s gaze looked towards the street with sparse pedestrian traffic. “You’re drinking to gather courage and even brought a knife. Are you planning to threaten her with suicide to choose you, or are you planning to go kill that man? Or kill that woman? You won’t want to cause trouble at this time.”

    “You, what are you talking about? I don’t understand!” The young man was shocked.

    “Tsk, people ah, at times like this, it’s easy to go to extremes, especially young people like you. When you’re older, you’ll know it’s not worth it.” Luo Feng was like an excellent elder, giving the young man guidance. “You envy his life. Do you want to become him?”

    The young man secretly gripped the knife in his pocket and asked vigilantly, “Become him? What do you mean?”

    “You live his life. Are you willing?” Luo Feng showed a smile again. “How about it? This choice is quite a bargain, right? You can possess everything he has. That handsome appearance, gentle personality, and you can become the only son of that department store owner. Drive a luxury car, sleep with beautiful women. As long as you don’t spend money recklessly, you can live comfortably until the end of your life.”

    “No matter how you look at it, this life is much better than your current life. Your mother died in an accident last year. Your father ignores you and drinks every day. There’s not much savings at home. You just graduated from high school and have to work three jobs every day to support the family. The only childhood friend who was good to you went off with someone else.”

    “Is it possible?” The young man’s face darkened. “How could I possibly have his life?”

    “I can give you room for choice.” Luo Feng pointed in front of him, and time in the entire world seemed to stop. “I’m a devil, a devil who can grant your wishes. I can do much more than you imagine.”

    “Devil?” The young man sobered up a bit. He wanted to get away from Luo Feng but found that he couldn’t do it.

    Devil?

    Cold sweat flowed down the woman’s head.

    There are really devils in this world?

    How is that possible!

    When bad luck strikes, can you even choke on cold water?

    I was just casually strolling and walked into a devil’s store?

    Snap!

    Luo Feng snapped his fingers, and time in the world resumed its normal flow.

    In a daze, the young man seemed to see his lovely childhood friend entering a love hotel, laughing and talking with a handsome guy.

    After going in, they got a room. Then the woman took a shower first, and the man went in to shower together.

    He wanted to keep watching, but he found that he couldn’t see anything anymore. The scene returned to the current one.

    “This was the scene three hours ago. Your childhood friend was slept with.” Luo Feng said softly. “Three times in one night.”

  • They All Want to Be My Female Lead chapter 36

    36. Heart-to-Heart Between Sisters

    “That’s because cousin always says one thing but means another, especially when it comes to matters related to Cousin Yan Zhen.”

    Yan Meng’er blinked and directly dropped a bombshell:

    “Actually, cousin likes Cousin Yan Zhen, right?”

    As soon as these words came out, Yan Ruyu’s face instantly turned bright red. She jumped up like a cat whose tail had been stepped on:

    “Nonsense! How- how could I possibly like that little brat? It’s utterly ridiculous… Meng’er, if you continue like this, I’m going to get angry!”

    “It doesn’t matter if cousin doesn’t admit it. However, I really like Cousin Yan Zhen.” Yan Meng’er said frankly, “Not just the liking between a younger cousin and an older cousin, but also the liking between a man and a woman.”

    Yan Ruyu glanced at her cousin and snorted, “You’ve loved sticking to him since you were little. It’s obvious even without saying it.”

    “Isn’t cousin the same? Because you’ve been secretly watching Cousin Yan Zhen, you can immediately appear and catch him to spank his butt when he’s being tyrannical.”

    “I- that was supervising him.” Yan Ruyu explained, “You know how arrogant that little brat was when he was young. If I didn’t keep an eye on him, the other children would all be bullied by him.”

    “No way. Cousin Yan Zhen was just a bit naughty. He rarely bullied other children… There were many more arrogant people than him, but cousin didn’t go to manage them. You just kept watching Cousin Yan Zhen and still say you don’t like him.”

    Yan Meng’er pouted, “Everyone could see that cousin treats cousin differently.”

    “I said I don’t—”

    “—Still not admitting it?” Yan Meng’er frowned, “Then I’ll go tell Cousin Yan Zhen all these things. This way, cousin should also think that cousin likes him.”

    What?

    As soon as Yan Ruyu heard this, a terrible scene immediately appeared in her mind:

    Yan Zhen picked his nose in a despicable manner, “Huh? I heard you like me? That’s really great because I don’t like you. Your butt is too big, hahahaha~”

    It was simply hell! Yan Ruyu didn’t dare to imagine further.

    “Yan Meng’er, you dare!”

    “Of course I dare.” Yan Meng’er said nonchalantly, “Anyway, I’m not the one who will be embarrassed.”

    Seeing her pose of really wanting to do it, Yan Ruyu instantly panicked. Half aggrieved and half threatening, she said:

    “Meng’er, what’s wrong with you? I just got back, and you keep saying annoying things. If you don’t like being with me, then go find your Cousin Yan Zhen. I won’t pay attention to you!”

    After saying that, she quickly walked into her own courtyard.

    “Oh my, cousin~” Seeing that she was really angry, Yan Meng’er immediately followed and held Yan Ruyu’s arm, showing affection, “Just admit it. Anyone with eyes can see that you have feelings for Cousin Yan Zhen. You’re the only one who thinks you’ve hidden it well. How embarrassing.”

    “You damned girl, are you asking for a beating? Do you not take me, your cousin, seriously anymore?”

    Yan Ruyu disdainfully slapped Yan Meng’er’s little hand, putting on an air of “don’t touch me, I’m not familiar with you”.

    Yan Meng’er sighed a bit wearily, “Does cousin think that Cousin Yan Zhen doesn’t have the dazzling talent he had before, so there won’t be any girls who like him besides me, and it’s okay to take it slow?”

    “Only you, Meng’er, are blind enough to take a fancy to that little brat. If it were other girls, they wouldn’t even bother to look at him.”

    Perhaps because she was overstimulated, Yan Ruyu vented her anger on Yan Zhen and deliberately said bad things about him.

    “Sigh, cousin, you’re wrong. Cousin Yan Zhen is very popular, like that Huangfu Wenqing. Not only did she not break off the engagement, but she also plans to have Cousin Yan Zhen marry into Cloud Heaven Palace.”

    Yan Meng’er’s tone was full of melancholy.

    Yan Ruyu was stunned for a moment, and her heart started to panic a little:

    “Huangfu Wenqing? Could it be…”

    “It’s Cousin Yan Zhen’s fiancée. Grandpa City Lord and Grandpa Huangfu personally arranged their marriage.”

    “Wasn’t Huangfu Wenqing accepted as the personal disciple of the State Preceptor? She was even conferred the title of Princess by the King. I heard that many princes and nobles in the capital want to betroth her. How could she still fancy that little brat?” Yan Ruyu pursed her lips, “Is it because his talent has recovered? Or is it the intention of Old General Huangfu?”

    “When Huangfu Wenqing came, Cousin Yan Zhen’s talent hadn’t recovered yet. Old General Huangfu also didn’t force his granddaughter to marry. It was all Huangfu Wenqing herself. I don’t know if she discovered Cousin Yan Zhen’s hidden good points, but she unexpectedly pestered him and wouldn’t let go. It’s really infuriating!”

    When it came to Huangfu Wenqing, Yan Meng’er was very angry.

    That woman actually dared to secretly kiss her Cousin Yan Zhen. She had only met Cousin Yan Zhen a few times but was already throwing herself at him like this, without any restraint of a proper lady!

    She was just a mere fiancée. For Cousin Yan Zhen, wasn’t she, this cousin – oh, plus another cousin – better?

    “Huangfu Wenqing likes Yan Zhen… and wants to take him to Cloud Heaven Palace as a live-in son-in-law… The State Preceptor won’t agree, right?”

    Yan Ruyu was still hoping for a plot twist, but Yan Meng’er shook her head and said:

    “This is the intention of the State Preceptor. Insisting in cultivate Huangfu Wenqing as the successor of Cloud Heaven Palace, only taking in a husband and not marrying out.”

    At this point, Yan Meng’er let out another long sigh:

    “Cousin, you understand, right? If Cousin Yan Zhen really becomes the live-in son-in-law of Cloud Heaven Palace, then we won’t have the slightest hope.”

    A live-in son-in-law naturally wouldn’t have the right to take concubines, which meant that she and her cousin couldn’t even be his mistresses.

    This was also the place where Yan Meng’er hated Huangfu Wenqing.

    She blocked the path for the sisters at once, enjoying everything herself and not even leaving soup for others. It was simply going too far!

    Yan Ruyu’s willow brows were tightly knitted, and her pearly teeth lightly bit her red lips. She was also obviously aware of the seriousness of the problem, but she quickly reacted and still stubbornly said:

    “What does this have to do with me? If he wants to marry in, let him marry in. Meng’er, if you can’t bear to part with him, then go ‘accompany the bride’ together.”

    “How would Huangfu Wenqing agree? Cousin, you don’t know how hateful she is. She intentionally seduced Cousin Yan Zhen and even kissed him.”

    “Kissed!?”

    Yan Ruyu’s footsteps paused, and her eyes slightly widened. She felt it was unbelievable, and her chest also felt stuffy.

    Yan Meng’er continued to stimulate her:

    “Yes, not on the face, but mouth to mouth.”

    As she spoke, she even pouted her cherry-pink lips and made a “smooch” sound. Then she added:

    “It seems she even stuck her tongue in and ate a lot of Cousin Yan Zhen’s saliva.”

    “Tongue… saliva…”

    Yan Ruyu seemed to have imagined such a scene: under the moonlight, a man and a woman, kissing, rerorerorero~

    “Simply- simply shameless!” Yan Ruyu’s cheeks were dyed a crimson red. She said in embarrassment and anger, “Meng’er, you- you didn’t stop them?”

    “How dare I? Huangfu Wenqing is a Five-Star Mystic One. Even Cousin Yan Zhen couldn’t resist and could only obediently let her violate him.”

    Cousin is so pitiful, sob sob sob~

    “So, cousin, if you don’t hurry, Cousin Yan Zhen will be taken to Cloud Heaven Palace by that bad woman Huangfu Wenqing. If he marries in, Cousin Yan Zhen won’t be happy either. Cousin, you don’t want Cousin Yan Zhen to be ridiculed every day for marrying above his station after entering Cloud Heaven Palace, right?”

    Yan Ruyu began to waver:

    “But I can’t do anything either.”

    “Of course you can.” Yan Meng’er persuaded step by step, “That Huangfu Wenqing is so arrogant, she definitely won’t be willing to share the same man with others. If we sisters can capture Cousin Yan Zhen first, then she will take the initiative to break off the engagement. At that time, won’t everyone be happy?”

  • They All Want to Be My Female Lead chapter 35

    35. The Resentful Cousin

    Yan Ruyu, unlike Yan Meng’er, had an extremely poor relationship with Yan Zhen.

    When they were young, Yan Zhen was very naughty and was a leader among the children. As the elder sister, Yan Ruyu couldn’t stand it. She often caught him, pulled down his pants, and spanked his butt, being quite fierce.

    Due to the age gap, Yan Zhen was no match for Yan Ruyu at all. Every time, he could only obediently submit.

    But as Yan Zhen grew up and his talent emerged, his cultivation gradually caught up to Yan Ruyu, who was three years older than him.

    Then, when Yan Zhen was ten years old, when Yan Ruyu still wanted to catch him and teach him a lesson, Yan Zhen turned the tables and captured her, pulled down her pants, and fiercely spanked her butt, getting his big revenge!

    At that time, Yan Ruyu was already a teenage girl. When she came back to her senses, she was extremely embarrassed and angry. She drew her sword and chased Yan Zhen for more than a dozen streets, but still couldn’t catch up. In the end, she could only give up resentfully.

    Thus, the two evolved into a relationship where they would fight whenever they met, a true pair of resentful enemies.

    Seeing the long sword stabbing over, Yan Zhen didn’t dodge or avoid it. Instead, he lazily leaned back, propped his elbows on the table, crossed his legs, and assumed the posture of a big shot, looking at Yan Ruyu with an unperturbed attitude.

    As he expected, the sword tip suddenly stopped when it was three inches away from Yan Zhen.

    “You little brat, why didn’t you dodge?!”

    Yan Zhen snorted, “Why should I dodge? If you dare to stab me, I dare to play the victim. I won’t stop until I extort three to five million from you!”

    “Ptui! At such a young age, your belly is full of bad ideas! I’m too lazy to stoop to your level.”

    With that, Yan Ruyu quickly sheathed her sword, reached out, and pulled Yan Meng’er to her side, asking with concern, “Meng’er, how are you? Are you alright?”

    “Cousin, I’m fine. I was just joking around with Cousin Yan Zhen.” Yan Meng’er mediated, “By the way, cousin, why did you come back so early? The Mystic Academy shouldn’t be on vacation yet, right?”

    At the mention of this, Yan Ruyu’s expression changed slightly. She hesitated a bit and said, “I- I took leave to come back. Anyway, the vacation is coming soon. I originally wanted to come and watch the family competition, but I was delayed on the way. The sun was about to set when I arrived. Is the competition today or tomorrow?”

    So cousin rushed to cousin’s courtyard as soon as she got home? She must be worried that cousin was injured in the competition, right? Yan Meng’er pondered and replied, “The competition ended at noon.”

    “I see. Did anything strange happen?”

    “No, why do you ask?”

    “Oh, it’s good if nothing happened…” Yan Ruyu avoided Yan Meng’er’s question, “Meng’er, what place did you get?”

    Yan Meng’er smiled faintly, “I lost to Cousin Yan Zhen.”

    “Lost to Yan Zhen?” Yan Ruyu pointed at Yan Zhen, “To him?”

    Hearing Yan Ruyu’s doubt, Yan Meng’er immediately started praising Yan Zhen, “Cousin Yan Zhen is very powerful now. Not only has his cultivation reached Mystic Disciple 8th stage, but he also defeated Cousin Yan Mo, who is at the 9th stage, in a cross-stage battle. He got first place in this competition, and all the elders praised him – right, cousin?”

    “What?” Yan Ruyu was stunned. She turned her head to look at Yan Zhen and asked in surprise, “Your talent has recovered?”

    “Mmhmm~”

    Yan Zhen raised his chin.

    “Really? Let me see.”

    Saying that, Yan Ruyu tried to grab Yan Zhen’s hand. Yan Zhen hurriedly dodged.

    “What are you doing? Don’t grope me. There’s nothing to see.”

    Yan Ruyu’s movement paused, then she withdrew her hand and gave him a look.

    “If you don’t want to show me, then I don’t want to bother with you either. It’s just Mystic Disciple 8th stage. You can’t even take one move from me.”

    Yan Zhen glanced at Yan Ruyu’s chest area. There were four star badges pinned there, representing that she was at the Four-Star Mystic One realm.

    “You’ve been studying at the Mystic Academy for two years and only reached Four-Star Mystic One. You’re not that great either.”

    When Yan Ruyu entered the Mystic Academy, she was at Mystic Disciple 9th stage. Advancing to Four-Star Mystic One in two years wasn’t considered slow, but Yan Zhen was a One-Star Mystic One at the age of eleven, so he had the qualification to say such things.

    “Anyway, I’m still stronger than you.”

    “That’s not for sure.”

    “Oh? Then do you want to try?”

    “Wait until I advance to Mystic One, and I’ll let you know how powerful I am.”

    “That will have to wait until next year at least~”

    “Then next year it is. Remember to wash your butt clean.”

    “You- little pervert, you’re asking for a beating!”

    Yan Ruyu was originally trading insults with Yan Zhen evenly, but as soon as she heard him mention “butt”, her defense immediately broke.

    Yan Zhen showed a look of smugness. In his banter with Yan Ruyu, nothing else was important. As long as he said things like “butt” to break her defense, he would have met the acting requirements. So easy!

    Seeing this, Yan Meng’er hurriedly inserted herself between the two and played the role of a peacemaker.

    “Cousin, don’t be angry. Cousin Yan Zhen was just joking.”

    Yan Ruyu suppressed her anger and left a threat, “Little brat, don’t let me catch an opportunity, or I definitely won’t let you off easily.”

    Yan Zhen spread his hands and said, “You’re the one who should be careful, careful that your bu-tt blo-ss-oms.”

    Alright, the anger that had just subsided instantly soared back.

    Yan Ruyu glared at Yan Zhen fiercely, and Yan Zhen glared back, not wanting to lose.

    Their eyes met, and their gazes seemed to spark fire!

    Yan Meng’er covered her forehead and sighed lightly.

    Actually, she was a bit envious of Yan Ruyu’s relationship with Yan Zhen.

    The two only showed a unique side of themselves in front of each other.

    Yan Ruyu was usually mature and steady, knowing how to take care of her younger siblings. She was a reliable elder sister. But when she encountered Yan Zhen, she easily went berserk and couldn’t control her emotions at all.

    As for Yan Zhen, he was also usually a man of few words, keeping his thoughts to himself. But when he saw Yan Ruyu, he would start being sarcastic, specifically targeting the things that annoyed her.

    Unfortunately, cousin was too proud and not charming enough in front of Cousin Yan Zhen. By the time she finally admitted her feelings, it was too late.

    However, since she was reborn, she definitely wouldn’t let the regrets of her previous life replay.

    This time, she would lead cousin to conquer Cousin Yan Zhen together, and they must capture him before other women do!

    Yan Meng’er was burning with fighting spirit!

    The two resentful enemies glared at each other for a while. Yan Ruyu was the first to withdraw her gaze. She grabbed Yan Meng’er and said, “Meng’er, let’s go back. Don’t stay here. You’ll be infected with bad habits.”

    With that, she walked out.

    Yan Meng’er couldn’t refuse, so she could only say quickly, “Cousin, Meng’er will go back first. I’ll come find you again tomorrow~”

    Yan Zhen waved at her.

    “Oh my, cousin, don’t walk so fast.”

    Yan Meng’er hurried to catch up with Yan Ruyu’s pace.

    Only after leaving the courtyard did Yan Ruyu ask, “Meng’er, when did you reconcile with Yan Zhen?”

    “Three months ago.” Yan Meng’er smiled and said, “Because Meng’er knew that I did the wrong thing, I took the initiative to apologize to Cousin Yan Zhen. Cousin Yan Zhen also forgave me very quickly.”

    “What are you apologizing for? It’s his own fault for being useless and causing you to be ridiculed by others.” Yan Ruyu said expressionlessly, “If it were me, I wouldn’t pay attention to him anymore.”

    Hearing this, Yan Meng’er teased, “Cousin wouldn’t ignore Cousin Yan Zhen. Didn’t you rush straight to cousin’s courtyard as soon as you got home?”

    “…I went to find you!” Yan Ruyu explained guiltily, “Who told you to always run to his place for no reason?”

    “Then did cousin go to my family’s courtyard?”

    “Of- of course I did.”

    “Then I’ll go back and ask my mother.”

    “Meng’er!” Yan Ruyu became anxious and put on the air of an elder sister, “You don’t believe what your sister says?”

  • Dear, it’s time for your medicine! chapter 14

    Chapter 14: The Makings of a Witch

    The polished floor, gleaming under the soft glow of the magical lamps, reflected his image like a mirror. The bed, large enough to accommodate a small army, was piled high with fresh linens, its inviting softness beckoning him closer.

    Every item in the room, from the toiletries to the towels, was brand new, meticulously arranged. Emperor Wadsworth had clearly spared no expense in ensuring the Hero’s comfort.

    The adjoining bathroom boasted a spacious bathtub, its waters perpetually heated by a series of embedded Fire Mana Crystals.

    A sturdy wooden desk, piled high with books detailing the history and geography of the Heavenly Continent, occupied one corner of the room. The paper, coarse and yellowed, hinted at the limitations of their world’s papermaking technology.

    A milky white magical lamp, resembling an oversized oil lamp, was mounted on the wall above the desk, its soft light casting long shadows across the floor.

    On the opposite wall, a bas-relief depicting the Goddess of Holy Light shimmered with an ethereal glow, its serene features radiating an aura of peace and purity.

    A large wardrobe stood against one wall. Curiosity piqued, Qin Chu opened its doors, his brow furrowing as he surveyed its contents.

    Dozens of outfits hung neatly inside, only a fifth of them intended for him. The rest… were clearly meant for a woman.

    Lacy maid uniforms, revealing leather armor for a rogue, a bikini-style warrior’s breastplate, high-slit robes for a sorceress, elf ears, cat ears, a fluffy tail, a leather collar…

    He shuddered, his lips twitching involuntarily. Was this Emperor Wadsworth’s idea of a welcome gift? Did the man think he was some kind of insatiable pervert?

    The sheer variety of costumes was both impressive and disturbing. Was this… some kind of elaborate seduction scheme? The lengths they went to to appease the Hero were truly astounding.

    The most perplexing items were the nun and priestess outfits, in various shades of white, black, and even a rather daring black and white combination that reminded him of Saint Monique’s attire.

    Was this… sacrilege? Wasn’t Wadsworth afraid of divine retribution?

    As if to complete the ensemble, a box containing ten vials of a pale green liquid sat on a shelf beside the costumes.

    Qin Chu recognized the potion. He had consumed it countless times in his previous life.

    Battles against Demons were exhausting. A single dose of this elixir would banish fatigue, restoring his energy and stamina. It also had… certain other benefits, making it a popular choice among the Heavenly Continent’s more virile inhabitants.

    It was a complex alchemical concoction, its ingredients rare and expensive. Each vial cost at least ten thousand Mana. The Emperor had clearly spared no expense.

    Qin Chu shook his head, marveling at the extravagance of the wealthy elite.

    He returned to the desk, adjusting the lamp’s brightness before settling into the chair. He picked up a book, flipping through its pages.

    It contained basic information about the Heavenly Continent, its history, geography, and political structure.

    The continent, it seemed, was more of a massive island surrounded by a vast, unexplored ocean. Similar to Earth’s Australia, but on a much grander scale. What lay beyond the ocean’s horizon?

    No one knew.

    For millennia, countless explorers and adventurers had attempted to cross the ocean, to chart its depths, to unravel its mysteries.

    None had succeeded.

    Those who returned spoke of an impenetrable darkness, of raging storms and ash-filled skies.

    Even Sages, upon approaching these forbidden zones, felt a primal fear grip their hearts, their magical shields easily shattered by the relentless winds.

    The ocean’s depths had claimed countless lives, its secrets remaining hidden.

    The Heavenly Continent was divided into thirteen nations, the Auville Empire being the most powerful. Had it not been for the Demon Beast invasion, Emperor Wadsworth would have likely unified the continent under his rule.

    The continent’s religious landscape was diverse, but only two faiths held significant sway: the Holy See, worshipping the Goddess of Holy Light, and the Church of the Earth Mother Goddess.

    These two churches, along with the Auville Empire, were locked in a constant power struggle, vying for dominance.

    Qin Chu, however, wasn’t particularly interested in these matters. He had lived through this history once before, its intricacies etched into his memory.

    He skimmed through the book, then set it aside, his gaze drawn to the window. He cracked it open, extinguished the lamp, and climbed into bed.

    Within minutes, the sound of his soft snores reached Nikles, standing guard outside.

    The Hero was exhausted, he thought. It was understandable. To be ripped from his world, thrust into this strange land, then subjected to hours of travel and tedious formalities… it was enough to drain anyone’s energy.

    His duty was simple: protect the Hero, ensure his safety, and prevent any disturbances.

    He failed to notice, however, a small, black bat slipping through the open window moments later.

    On the bed, Qin Chu’s body remained still, his snores undisturbed.

    Illusion Creation.

    Despite his depleted Mana, he could still manage basic illusions. With his previous life’s experience, both with skills and magic, he could easily project an image of himself sleeping soundly.

    He wasn’t worried about being discovered.

    The guards, though skilled warriors, weren’t particularly sensitive to magic. None would detect his absence.

    And even if they did, he had a ready-made excuse. As the Hero, his actions were beyond reproach.

    The Hero’s mantle was truly a convenient shield, its power extending far beyond mere combat prowess.

    He had initially found the bat form disorienting, but he quickly adapted, his senses adjusting to the new perspective.

    Shapeshifting was a surprisingly useful Ability, its applications extending far beyond combat. He soared through the night sky, his wings beating silently, the wind whispering through his fur.

    The twin moons, now past their zenith, cast long shadows across the sleeping city.

    A few late-night revelers stumbled through the streets, but none paid any attention to the small bat flitting overhead.

    He flew over the city walls, leaving the opulence of the inner city behind.

    The outer city was shrouded in darkness, the only illumination coming from the twin moons overhead. This, Qin Chu thought, was the true face of the city, its poverty and despair hidden from the privileged few.

    Following his memories, he navigated the labyrinthine streets.

    Minutes later, he landed in front of a dimly lit tavern.

    The “Brave Adventurer,” a twenty-four-hour establishment catering to the city’s less savory elements.

    His bat form dissolved, reshaping itself into that of a handsome young man, his features youthful, his clothes those of a traveling mage.

    He glanced at the tavern’s faded sign, its crimson paint peeling, its message still clear.

    He had many enemies. Tonight, he would enact his revenge on one of them, using the most devious of methods.

    It was a risky plan, but he was confident in his ability to pull it off.

    He was a mysterious stranger, a master manipulator.

    He smiled, pushing open the tavern’s glass doors.

    The interior was deserted, the only sound the soft clinking of glasses as a lone figure wiped down the bar.

    A single oil lamp cast a flickering light, its smoky flame filling the air with a pungent odor.

    The woman behind the bar was tall and strikingly beautiful, her lavender hair cascading down her back, her amethyst eyes shimmering with an alluring intensity. Her skin was flawless, her figure, accentuated by a form-fitting black dress, a masterpiece of curves and angles.

    Of all the women he had known, only the Great Mage, Athena, a member of the Hero Squad, could rival her in sheer physical perfection.

    Her beauty, her allure, had attracted countless suitors, many of them wealthy and powerful. But she had rejected them all, choosing instead to run this humble tavern.

    She glanced up as he entered, her gaze lingering on him for a moment, her eyes seeming to pierce through his carefully constructed facade.

    A new customer. Interesting.

    “Welcome, sir,” she said, her voice smooth and melodic. “What can I get for you?”

    Qin Chu smiled, taking a seat at the bar.

    “A Witch’s Heart, please,” he said, his eyes never leaving hers.

    She nodded, her slender fingers moving with practiced grace as she began mixing his drink.

    He watched her work, mesmerized by her skill.

    “Princess Candice,” he said, his voice soft yet clear, “your bartending skills have improved.”

    “Thank you, kind sir, but I still have much to learn…” She stopped mid-sentence, her hand hovering over the cocktail shaker.

    A heavy silence descended upon the tavern.

    After a moment, she resumed her work, her voice carefully neutral. “You must be mistaken, sir. My name is Catherine. There’s no one named Candice here.”

    She placed the finished drink, a swirling concoction of crimson hues, before him, her expression unchanged, as if their previous exchange had never occurred.

    Shaye materialized beside him, perching on his shoulder, her bare feet swinging back and forth, narrowly missing the glass.

    He winced, hoping she wouldn’t accidentally kick it over.

    “Why are you out here?” he asked mentally, his voice laced with annoyance.

    She ignored him, her gaze fixed on the woman behind the bar.

    “This one…” she murmured, her voice taking on a contemplative tone. “She has the makings of a Witch.”