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  • Sickly Girl Doesn’t Die in Zombie Simulator 140p3

    Chapter One Hundred and Forty: Two Jealous Jars p3

    Lin Jiayao slowly retracted the bone spurs and blood crystal threads beside the wall and re-condensed her body.

    Now Mask could still control these mutated zombies through bone spurs and blood crystal threads after the blood crystal threads left the body.

    But it was still not enough… These zombies were still too weak.

    After evolving to B-rank, Mask was truly typical of becoming stronger when encountering the strong. As long as the controlled zombies were stronger, the stronger the role it could play.

    As for why Lin Jiayao wanted to get it to A4 or Lin Jiayao’s side immediately after figuring out Mask’s ability?

    Because now Mask’s ability was more focused on “assistance”.

    It was not strong in relying on “connection” to control zombies, but relying on “connection” to enhance the ability of the connected person.

    Now with blood crystal threads, Mask could completely achieve not hurting the user’s bones after accessing, and could continuously provide power.

    Rather than saying that Mask was now a control type, it was better to say that it was a “weapon” type.

    With Mask by her side, it was equivalent to having an extra set of B-rank armor and weapons, and an entire B-rank extra energy source.

    The effect produced was not as simple as 1+1=2.

    Now Mask seemed to have really become a prop for “Kamen Rider” to transform, and it could even really become a belt to hang up at ordinary times.

    Unfortunately, although Mask was also very strong now and had a great effect on Lin Jiayao, it might not be able to survive the crisis in front of her.

    She could only try her best…

    “Crack—”

    Lin Jiayao manipulated her hands to eject bone spurs, which directly inserted into the back of the enhanced Sprinter, dragging her body over.

    “Pfft—”

    Skillfully reaching out and directly pulling out the Sprinter’s head, Lin Jiayao’s bones wriggled, entered the Sprinter’s body from behind, and the pale head replaced the head that was originally buried by muscles, slowly emerging in front of the chest.

    “Thump—thump—”

    Manipulating the huge fists to smash in front of her, Lin Jiayao slowly held her breath.

    She could barely exert B-rank power… But this body itself was too weak, only C-rank.

    Forcibly raising it to the power of B-rank, in less than two minutes, this body would directly explode because it could not withstand the blood crystals, and then Lin Jiayao would have to find another body.

    No… there was another possibility…

    That was to try to control that huge zombie ray… Could this work?

    “Buzz—”

    At this time, the zombie ray was less than a thousand meters away from Lin Jiayao, and Lin Jiayao could even hear the sound of the rain being evaporated by the flames.

    “Roar—”

    She manipulated the Sprinter’s body to roar wildly, and pushed forward with both hands. The next second, the huge terrifying ray, hundreds of meters long, spraying flames, with a body covered with scale armor, directly hit Lin Jiayao’s raised hands.

    “Rumble—”

    The building in the rainy night was directly smashed like a piece of tofu, and the huge ray left a deep pit on the ground.

    Its huge body finally fell to the ground, the flames on its body were extinguished, and it shoveled a whole piece of buildings in front of it with billowing smoke.

    And at the very front of its head, there was a very small, strange white-headed zombie, still roaring and resisting its head.

    “Roar—!”

    The huge twisted arms of the zombie were already torn, and blood was constantly spurting from the bursting wounds all over its body.

    But it seemed like a truly fearless zombie, carrying a body that was bleeding all over, and raised its “huge” fist towards the ray in front of it.

    This “huge” fist seemed a little too funny in front of the zombie ray.

    But before this fist was swung out, it was already covered with jade-like bone spurs like a boxing glove.

    “Boom—”

    A punch hit the zombie ray, and several half-meter-long scales with black blood were smashed, revealing the rotten flesh inside.

    “Woo————!”

    The huge zombie ray let out a terrifying wail, and then, the scales all over its body opened again.

    This time, Lin Jiayao, who was facing the zombie ray directly, saw the whole process of the scales opening at the closest distance.

    Including the hundreds of scarlet blood eyes that appeared in front of Lin Jiayao after the scales opened, originally hidden under the scales.

    “Boom—”

    The terrifying heat was sprayed out as the ray’s scales opened. At the same time, the zombie ray’s body also shook frantically, opening its mouth tens of meters wide and pouncing towards Lin Jiayao.

    Lin Jiayao could not only see the densely packed rows of sharp teeth, but also smell the rotten and bloody breath and the huge pieces of meat hanging on them that had not been swallowed.

    The body that Lin Jiayao was controlling now was only about the size of one of its teeth.

    This was a crushing weight… Even with the same B-rank ability, due to the huge size of the seabed creatures and the large amount of blood crystal reserves, there was basically no chance of winning if they faced each other with the same strength.

    But fortunately, she was controlling Mask.

    Although Mask’s individual combat ability was weak, Mask’s ability gave it unlimited possibilities…

    Since she couldn’t find the best host… then she would use you!

    “Roar—”

    Lin Jiayao manipulated the Sprinter, leaped towards the zombie ray’s mouth with all her strength, aiming directly at the zombie’s throat.

    Seemingly knowing what Lin Jiayao was going to do, the zombie ray waved its huge pectoral fins and fluttered backwards, its body retreating as much as possible.

    It had to let the prey be crushed in its tooth bed that led all the way to the esophagus before entering the mouth. The seabed was not lacking in fast and deadly small zombie fish. If they crossed the tooth bed and swam into the stomach, it was basically equal to death.

    Seemingly seeing the ray’s movements, seeing that she was flying forward but still relatively stationary in the direction of the tooth bed, looking at the slowly lowering giant mouth, Lin Jiayao’s heart tightened.

    Not enough… The distance was definitely not enough…

    “Pfft—”

    Lin Jiayao did not hesitate at all and directly abandoned this body.

    Two bone spurs shot out from the Sprinter’s chest, bringing out a large amount of flesh and blood and fine threads.

    The ejected bone spurs directly inserted into the depths of the zombie ray’s throat, and then Lin Jiayao’s bone body was pulled out of the Sprinter’s body and flew directly towards the depths of the zombie’s esophagus.

    “Thump—”
    “Thump—”

    The opening and closing of the zombie ray made a loud noise, and the Sprinter’s body that was left on the tooth bed was also quickly turned into minced meat and blood crystals under the grinding and chewing of countless teeth, and then quickly absorbed by the tooth bed.

    And Mask’s body had already been hung on the ray’s esophagus by the bone chain.

    The crushed flesh and blood mixed with rainwater were squeezed and washed towards the esophagus. At the same time, Lin Jiayao’s Bone Spike Lurker could feel that a terrifying thing was surging up from the ray’s stomach.

    From its vibration model, it could be seen that it was a headless and eyeless, but it could block the entire esophagus, a meat stick, and there was a bloody mouth at the top of the meat stick.

    This was the second defense method of the zombie ray to prevent small zombie fish from breaking through the tooth bed defense and starting to eat directly in its esophagus and stomach.

    Even if this sarcoma stick-like thing couldn’t swallow the fish, it could also push the fish to the tooth bed for secondary crushing.

    The ejection speed of the meat stick was very fast. During the time Lin Jiayao detected, it was already about to be pushed out of the esophagus.

    But it was useless… because Lin Jiayao had completely figured out the entire structure of this zombie ray’s huge body.

    “Scratch—”

    Lin Jiayao’s arms turned into terrifying sharp thorns, and began to quickly dig the rotten flesh in the zombie ray’s mouth.

    Black blood and rotten meat washed Lin Jiayao’s body, but she didn’t change her expression at all, and directly dug a pit in the ray’s mouth that could allow her whole body to drill into.

    “Woo——————!”

    The severe pain made the zombie ray go crazy. It kept wagging its tail and shaking, and even sprayed flames to make its body briefly airborne, but none of these methods could stop the “small thing” in its mouth from constantly digging out blood holes.

    Finally, the struggling zombie ray began to frantically infuse blood crystal energy, all the scales on its body opened, and it fluttered and jumped towards the direction of the original rift, completely without the terrifying aura of flying out of the water like a nuclear bomb launch.

    It provoked the wrong zombie when it wanted to hunt B-rank terrestrial creatures.

    At this time, Lin Jiayao was lying in the sea of blood, digging flesh and fat in the zombie ray’s body, constantly drilling towards a certain direction.

    She could feel the vibrations caused by the zombie ray’s movements at this time, but she couldn’t care too much.

    The ever-changing, life-or-death battle did not allow for too much thinking. In most cases, it was relying on instinct, muscle memory, and experience.

    And Lin Jiayao’s goal was very simple—the long spine bone of the zombie ray that ran through the entire body.

    She wanted to completely control this zombie ray.

    Since there were no powerful creatures on land to control, then she would control the ones in the sea… Anyway, now she could choose the Extraction Point in four directions at will, she could completely control the ray to go to the seaside to see.

    “Crack—”

    Finally, Lin Jiayao dug to a hard bone, and at the same time, a large amount of water poured into Lin Jiayao’s direction from the wound.

    Did it enter the water?

    It’s okay… I also entered the bone…

    “Kakakaka—”

    Lin Jiayao’s bone spurs kept drilling into the hard spine, making a tooth-aching friction sound.

    And Mask’s figure gradually disappeared into the spine, and even the wound on the spine that was drilled open at the beginning had slowly healed.

    The huge zombie ray, which was originally struggling frantically in the water, was like being struck by lightning, the whole fish was stiff, and it stopped moving.

    After a while, it seemed to be unfamiliar with the body, and it moved its pectoral fins awkwardly. Not only did it not swim forward, but it also turned its body over.

  • Dear, it’s time for your medicine! 292

    Chapter 292: Give Me Jie Luo’s Soul Fragment

    “Muse… wait…”

    Athena reached out, a hint of exasperation in her voice. She wanted to warn him against rushing in. They had only disabled the entrance barrier. There could be other traps inside.

    This place filled her with unease.

    Even standing at the entrance made her skin crawl. She had a bad feeling about this.

    But Muse, in his eagerness, had already charged inside before she could finish her sentence.

    She watched him disappear into the eerie chamber. After a moment of hesitation, she decided to stay at the entrance.

    She would heed her instincts and not enter.

    A strange scene unfolded before her eyes. With the purple barrier gone, the chamber was now bathed in a sickly green light, emanating from the black worms within the clay pot.

    As Muse entered, the green mist converged upon him, covering him from head to toe.

    Athena’s throat tightened, the sight making her scalp tingle. She saw the mist seeping into Muse’s skin.

    His condition, which had improved slightly after her healing spells, rapidly deteriorated. Blisters erupted on his skin, bursting and festering without him even scratching.

    His coughing intensified.

    And despite the cold, his skin flushed as if he had a fever.

    The green mist began to seep out of the chamber, towards Athena.

    But as it touched her magical shield, the shield flared, incinerating the mist.

    Athena’s eyes narrowed, scanning the chamber. She saw a grotesque statue near the stone slab.

    It resembled a squatting toad with a wide, gaping mouth and a bumpy back, its form bloated and decaying.

    A shiver ran down her spine. Was this the deity worshipped by the deceased alchemist?

    She had some knowledge of mystical arts, but she had never seen such a bizarre deity.

    It clearly wasn’t a benevolent one.

    A dark cloud, swarming with tiny insects, surrounded the statue. A cauldron sat before it…

    A wave of terror washed over Athena, stronger than before. She instinctively stepped back, calling out: “Muse, come out!”

    Her voice was sharper than she intended.

    Muse, oblivious to his deteriorating condition, was fixated on the soul fragment, ignoring everything else.

    His eyes shone with a manic light, his breath coming in ragged gasps.

    Huff… huff…

    He didn’t even notice his cracked lips.

    His face was flushed with fever.

    His head spun, but he shook it, forcing himself to stay focused, his trembling hands reaching for the soul fragment.

    It was Jie Luo’s soul fragment.

    The hope of his resurrection.

    He didn’t notice the blisters on his hands, resembling clusters of grapes.

    His eyes were wide, the pain and discomfort forgotten, replaced by a strange euphoria.

    Muse’s feelings for Jie Luo weren’t as twisted as Ronald’s.

    His preferences were… normal.

    But Jie Luo was his closest friend, closer even than Karsus or Benson. Jie Luo was the only one who truly understood him.

    Jie Luo hadn’t judged him for his bloodlust. He had even encouraged him, seeing killing as an art form. They had often discussed new, more elegant and brutal methods of killing.

    Jie Luo held an irreplaceable position in Muse’s heart.

    He crudely broke the skeletal finger and carefully removed the ring, gazing at the gem-like fragment, his breathing quickening.

    It was so beautiful.

    Athena’s voice startled him, breaking his reverie. He felt a surge of annoyance. What was she yelling about?

    He had already forgotten her earlier kindness.

    He vaguely sensed something was wrong with the environment. He spat at the skeleton, cursing under his breath, then turned to leave.

    Athena waved her staff, summoning a gust of wind that swept the skeleton off the slab. She then extended her hands, mana converging between her fingers, capturing a magical image of the chamber, focusing on the runes on the stone slab.

    This place made her skin crawl. She didn’t want to stay a moment longer.

    As Muse exited the chamber, she slammed her staff against the floor.

    Earthfire!

    Buzz.

    Flames erupted, filling the chamber, burning fiercely.

    The green mist dissipated, the metal tools melted, the vial shattered, and even the skeleton was reduced to ashes…

    The black worms in the clay pot writhed frantically, as if sensing their impending doom, emitting faint, high-pitched screeches.

    And the statue…

    In the flickering firelight, it seemed to grin, a strangely benevolent smile.

    Athena’s mind reeled, her soul trembling.

    The strange sensation vanished as quickly as it appeared, lasting less than a second. She looked again, but the statue’s smile was gone, the flames consuming everything within the chamber.

    She swallowed, not daring to linger, and turned to leave…

    Muse, who had wanted to celebrate, followed reluctantly.

    As they ran, Athena continued to unleash fireballs behind them.

    She couldn’t explain the feeling, but she felt as if invisible threads were clinging to her.

    Only after they left the cave and emerged into the snowy landscape did the oppressive feeling subside.

    The exertion hadn’t been strenuous for someone of her level, but she felt strangely exhausted. She leaned against her knees, gasping for breath.

    After a while, she straightened up, wiping the sweat from her brow.

    The memory of the chamber still sent shivers down her spine.

    She couldn’t explain it, but the chamber, its contents, and especially the statue, had filled her with a primal, inexplicable terror.

    She just wanted to be as far away from it as possible.

    “Cough, cough, cough…”

    A violent coughing fit erupted behind her.

    She turned to see Muse’s condition worsening, even worse than before.

    His coughs were raspy and dry, as if his throat was tearing.

    Blood mixed with his saliva, staining the snow crimson.

    After a long while, his coughing subsided. He scratched at his head, clumps of hair falling out.

    His condition was deteriorating rapidly.

    “Muse, you need to go to the Holy See or the Church of the Earth Mother Goddess for treatment. You’re in bad shape,” Athena said gravely.

    Muse nodded.

    Even he, with his usual arrogance, had to admit something was seriously wrong.

    “Give me Jie Luo’s soul fragment,” Athena said, extending her hand.

    Muse’s face changed, his eyes narrowing suspiciously.

    He clutched the ring protectively: “What do you need it for? It’s safe with me.”

    “I just want to check if it’s really Jie Luo’s soul fragment and if it’s damaged,” Athena said calmly. “You don’t need to be so wary.”

    “If I had ulterior motives, I wouldn’t have healed you. Or I could have simply killed you while you were weak. You know you’re no match for me in your current state,” she added coldly.

  • After Failing to Find Immortality 224

    Chapter 224: Yin Energy Disperses, A Mysterious Woman

    The Yin energy that had permeated the area completely dissipated.

    Lin Tianlu looked at the spot where the demon had vanished, a sigh escaping his lips.

    The actions of a single demon had caused so much chaos and suffering in this town, families torn apart, lives lost, yet no one had been able to stop him. Each tragedy was just another act in his twisted play.

    This world…

    Perhaps it truly needed a change.

    Lin Tianlu turned around and saw Magistrate Hua emerging from the county office, his steps unsteady.

    “That demon, Fan Qi…”

    “His soul has been destroyed.”

    Lin Tianlu smiled faintly. “Although he didn’t face your judgment in court, Magistrate, I believe this outcome is still satisfactory.”

    Magistrate Hua’s expression flickered, then he exhaled slowly, as if releasing a heavy burden.

    “He deserved his fate. It’s a blessing for Anshi County.”

    Whoosh

    The heavy plaque returned, spinning through the air, and Lin Tianlu caught it, effortlessly placing it back above the county office entrance.

    “Now that this matter is resolved, I’ll take my leave. As for the remaining criminals, I’ll leave them in your capable hands, Magistrate.”

    “I won’t disappoint you, Master Lin.”

    Magistrate Hua bowed deeply.

    But then he frowned slightly, his voice serious. “That Fan Qi was a powerful individual, connected to Prince Pei. Be careful, Master Lin. The prince is unpredictable, and even his son, although seemingly gentle and kind, is not to be trifled with.”

    “Thank you for the warning, Magistrate.”

    Lin Tianlu smiled and bowed slightly. “Then I’ll take my leave.”

    “Why don’t you stay in town for a few more days, Master Lin? We can offer you our hospitality—”

    “There’s no need.”

    Lin Tianlu didn’t hesitate. He turned and walked away, waving his hand dismissively. “Magistrate, if you have some free time, you should visit your family. Family bonds are stronger than you think.”

    “…”

    Magistrate Hua took a deep breath and bowed respectfully.

    …

    A while later, the constables emerged from the county office.

    The middle-aged constable approached Magistrate Hua and said in a low voice, “Magistrate, that Master Lin…”

    “He’s a kind and selfless man, not interested in fame or fortune. He’s already left.”

    The magistrate straightened his back, his voice filled with admiration.

    “It was a blessing for Anshi County to have encountered such an extraordinary individual.”

    “Magistrate, should we try to find him and express our gratitude—”

    “No.”

    He quickly raised his hand, stopping them. “Master Lin is a noble and righteous man. Don’t bother him with trivial matters. Excessive flattery would only offend him.

    Simply restoring order to Anshi County is enough to repay his kindness. If we ever meet again, we’ll express our gratitude and offer our assistance.”

    “Yes, Sir!”

    “Magistrate, what about this Hu girl?”

    A constable led Hu Siqi out of the county office, her expression dazed and confused.

    The magistrate glanced at her and sighed. “Young lady, although Master Lin showed you mercy, you still deserve to be punished. You’ll spend a few days in jail. Do you have any objections?”

    “N-no!” Hu Siqi shook her head quickly. “Thank you, Magistrate Hua! Thank you, Master Lin!”

    “Alright, take her to a cell. And don’t mistreat her. After ten days, we’ll contact her family and collect the fine. Her family is relatively wealthy. They can afford it.”

    “Yes, Sir!”

    The young constable nodded and took out a pair of shackles, binding Hu Siqi’s hands. “I apologize for this, Miss. Please come with me.”

    “I-I understand. I won’t run away.”

    Hu Siqi glanced at the unconscious ghost practitioners lying on the ground and shuddered.

    Although the unfathomable scholar had left, there were still dozens of skilled constables present. If she caused any trouble, she would be punished severely, just like those pathetic wretches.

    Magistrate Hua watched as she was led away, then turned to look at the dark and empty street, his eyes filled with a melancholic longing.

    He sighed softly.

    “Perhaps… I should visit my family, as Master Lin suggested.”

    …

    Hu Siqi shivered as she was led through the dark and damp corridors of the prison.

    She looked at the cells and the prisoners inside, her heart pounding with fear.

    Although she had foolishly tried to steal, she had never imagined that she would end up in jail. And the sight of those dirty and disheveled prisoners made her skin crawl.

    “You’ll be staying here for the next ten days, Miss Hu.”

    The young constable stopped in front of a cell, unlocked the door, and opened it. “We’ll bring you two meals a day. There’s a prison uniform inside. You can change when you’re alone. The conditions aren’t ideal, but it’s your punishment. Try to endure it.”

    “I-I understand. I won’t complain.”

    Hu Siqi nodded quickly, her demeanor meek and obedient.

    Seeing her enter the cell and sit down quietly, the constable raised an eyebrow, surprised by her submissiveness.

    She didn’t seem like someone who had tried to steal, even from that powerful Master Lin.

    But the thought of that extraordinary scholar, his display of power, filled the young constable with excitement. He locked the cell door and hurried away.

    He wanted to share his excitement with his colleagues, to recount the incredible events of the night.

    It was an experience he would never forget.

    However, he didn’t notice…

    Hu Siqi, sitting on the straw mat in her cell, suddenly smiled, her expression strange and unsettling.

    …

    “—I never thought I would end up in a mortal prison.”

    She patted the hard straw mat, practically a stone slab, with amusement.

    “This is quite a novel experience. So this is what they provide for prisoners to sleep on?”

    She touched the dusty wall, her fingernails scraping against the surface, sending a shower of particles into the air.

    She wiped her fingers and chuckled. “To be trapped in this place for years… it would be a fate worse than death. I can’t believe there are people who willingly endure this.”

    “Hey, I didn’t expect to see a woman in here.”

    A raspy voice, filled with amusement, suddenly called out.

    Hu Siqi turned to see a middle-aged man with a scruffy beard, dressed in a tattered prison uniform, sitting in the cell across from hers, a leering smile on his face.

    “I heard the wind howling outside earlier, and the air’s getting colder. Is winter coming early this year?”

    Hu Siqi glanced at him dismissively, her attention returning to her surroundings, her eyes filled with curiosity.

    She examined the table, the chairs, the chamber pot…

    These were things she had never seen in the Luo Xing’s Myriad Ghost Pagoda.

    “What’s so interesting about this place, girl?”

    The man chuckled, not at all offended. “I didn’t get a good look at your face earlier. Why don’t you come closer? If you’re pretty, I might take you under my wing.”

    “…”

    Hu Siqi finally turned to face him, her finger tracing her chin thoughtfully. Then she smiled faintly. “So you’re in here for… assaulting a woman?”

    “Hmm?”

    The man was startled. “How did you…”

    “Get down on the floor.”

    Hu Siqi smiled, her finger pointing downwards. “I don’t want to be seen by a lecherous man like you. It’s disgusting.”

    The man’s face darkened. This girl was showing him no respect.

    He would teach her a lesson when he had the chance. After he was released, he would contact a few friends and— Thud!

    Suddenly, he found himself sprawled on the floor, his limbs stiff and unresponsive.

    “A worm, even after a year or two in prison, is still a worm. Incorrigible.”

    Hu Siqi’s smile turned sinister, and she flicked her finger.

    The man, who had been about to call for help, suddenly froze, drool dripping from his mouth, his eyes rolling back as he fainted.

    “Not bad. Although I only managed to escape with a fragment of my soul, I still have some control over my power.”

    Hu Siqi wiggled her fingers playfully. “Killing him here would cause unnecessary trouble. And—”

    She glanced towards the exit, her lips curving into a sly smile. “That scholar… he’s the benevolent ‘Master Lin.’ He saved so many lives, yet he didn’t take anything in return, just a few words of gratitude. Such a good person… they’re rare these days.”

    “Now that I think about it, he didn’t get angry when we met earlier. He even spoke to me so gently and politely. It’s just like him. But he didn’t see through my disguise. He was completely unsuspecting.”

    She shook her head, amused, and pinched her cheek. “Perhaps this disguise is too effective. Did he really think I was just an innocent young girl?”

    “But this appearance is a bit inconvenient. This Soul Fusion technique is powerful, but it can also be dangerous. Maintaining this act, pretending to be so timid and helpless… it’s tiring.”

    She smiled and formed a hand seal, uttering a single word:

    “Release!”

    A shimmering light erupted from her body.

    Countless particles of light swirled around her, then converged towards her palm.

    Her appearance transformed drastically. Her small and frail body became tall and voluptuous, her long skirt revealing her smooth legs and thighs, her skin like flawless jade, her breasts full and round, her aura mature and seductive.

    She stroked her hair, revealing a breathtakingly beautiful face, her red lips curving into a enticing smile.

    “Thank you for your soul, little girl.”

    She poked the dim orb of light floating in her palm. “If it weren’t for you, I would have been discovered immediately.”

    The orb transformed into a faint, translucent figure of a young girl, her body curled up, trembling.

    “Look at you, so pathetic. I borrowed your soul for an entire day. You should at least have some dignity.”

    The mysterious beauty chuckled and waved her hand over the orb.

    The light flared, and the figure solidified, taking on a more distinct form.

    “—Huh?”

    Hu Siqi blinked, her eyes wide with confusion, standing in her cell.

    She touched her body, her memories returning as she looked at the mysterious woman sitting before her.

    “Y-you’re letting me go?”

    “Did I ever say I would kill you?”

    The mysterious woman crossed her long legs, her arms wrapped around her chest, a sly smile on her face. “I just borrowed your soul and your memories for a while. You were about to fade away anyway. I practically saved your life.”

    “I… thank you, Elder Sister.”

    Hu Siqi’s expression flickered, then she knelt down, her voice filled with gratitude and a hint of fear.

    The events of the past few days had been a traumatic experience for this “rich young lady.”

    Three days ago, she had been living a comfortable life, the daughter of a wealthy family. A chance encounter with Yin techniques had sparked her curiosity, and she had ventured out, hoping to learn more. But she had been attacked and killed.

    And then, this mysterious woman had possessed her body…

    Their souls had merged, and Hu Siqi had spent the past two days in a daze, her actions and words controlled by another consciousness, her memories fragmented and unreal, like a puppet.

    It was a disturbing experience, and she never wanted to repeat it.

    “—You foolish girl.”

    The mysterious woman sighed. “After you’re released from prison, go home and stay there. Don’t ever touch Yin techniques again. If you encounter another demon or ghost, you won’t be so lucky.”

    “Y-yes, Elder Sister!”

    Hu Siqi kowtowed repeatedly.

    But when she looked up, the mysterious woman was gone, vanished without a trace.

  • The Villainous Older Sister Who Loves Her Younger Sister Aims for the Guillotine 68

    68: Berry Candy

    I strolled through the capital of Vandergant with Leticia and Ciel as the sun began to set.

    I had simply changed out of my formal jacket. Leticia, too, had covered the crested gold buttons on her blouse with a scarf. Ciel wore a simple black dress, having removed her apron, cap, and the ribbon from her neckline.

    We left through the back entrance of the lord’s mansion and wandered aimlessly.

    “Elder Sister, do you know where you’re going?”

    “Of course. This is my territory. It’s like my own backyard.”

    Since it had been a year, I wasn’t as familiar with the city as I boasted.

    However, I could still get a general sense of direction from the district numbers on the signs.

    I had been trying to impress my sister, but my sense of direction was only good enough to avoid getting lost in a well-marked city.

    Leticia’s attention was caught by a row of stalls lining one of the streets.

    “Look, look…”

    “We’re having dinner at the mansion.”

    I steered my sister, who seemed interested in the street food, away from the stalls.

    “…Okay.”

    Leticia obediently followed.

    But then she stopped again, and I turned around.

    “Leticia?”

    “Oh, yes! Sorry, coming!”

    I saw the stall that had caught her attention.

    Berry candy. Small berries—the type varied depending on the season and the vendor, but these small red ones were probably raspberries—skewered and coated in hardened syrup.

    Some vendors sold them in cups or jars; there were various styles.

    It was a local specialty of the north, rarely seen in the capital. It must have been a novelty for Leticia, who had always lived in the capital, specifically the “back alley.”

    “…Just a little, though.”

    “Huh?”

    I took my wallet out of my small bag and looked at my most loyal subordinate, who was standing beside me.

    “Ciel, would you like one?”

    “Yes… but should I…?”

    I interrupted Ciel and addressed the vendor.

    “Three, please.”

    “Certainly! That will be six copper coins.”

    The vendor, a woman with plain apron and her auburn hair tied back with an embroidered scarf, gave us a professional smile.

    Two copper coins each. A standard price.

    I discreetly checked the hygiene—passable.

    This way, I could justify it as part of my inspection duties.

    I placed the coins on the wooden plate on the counter, handed one skewer to Ciel, and offered another to Leticia.

    “Oh… thank you.”

    Ciel gave me a look, and I nodded, giving her permission to eat first. She took a bite and nodded in approval.

    I also took a berry, rolled it on my tongue to dissolve the syrup coating, and then, as the tartness of the berry emerged, bit into it, savoring the sweet and sour mix of sugar and fruit.

    Then I took a bite of the second one and popped the rest into my mouth.

    Leticia, who had been watching me eat, hesitantly took a berry candy from her skewer and put it in her mouth, closing her eyes.

    “How… is it?”

    While I could tell she was savoring the taste, I couldn’t help but ask.

    Since the berries were (probably) from Vandergant, and this was a stall in the capital city, I felt like my qualifications as lord were being evaluated.

    Well, that was probably an exaggeration, and presumptuous of me.

    “It’s… delicious, and I’m so happy… and it’s making me feel so… content… and my heart feels so full…”

    Her reaction was exaggerated and… intense.

    However, she smiled as she looked at the skewer, now missing one berry.

    “They’re so sparkly, like jewels.”

    The syrup coating on the berries gleamed in the fading sunlight.

    But it was her smile that was sparkly, like a jewel.

    “They’re sweet when you put them in your mouth, and then a little sour at the end. It makes you want to eat another one…”

    As she spoke, she popped another one into her mouth.

    And then she smiled contentedly.

    I suddenly noticed a small crowd had gathered in front of the stall.

    The vendor, beaming, was serving customers, and when she noticed my gaze, she smiled.

    She was probably grateful for the free advertising.

    I, on the other hand, was grateful for the opportunity to see my sister smile for the mere price of two copper coins.

    Since my sister was so easily pleased, I wanted to shower her with gold coins, make her truly happy.

    …However, she wasn’t a girl who would be happy just because the amount was a hundred, a thousand, or even ten thousand times greater.

    What would make her happy?

    How could I make her happy?

    …Perhaps I should start by… not being mean? The relatively sensible and kind part of me suggested.

    I promptly locked that thought away in the deepest recesses of my mind. As if that were possible.

    It was such a precious, fleeting moment, being able to see Leticia’s smile while she ate…

    But as long as it was in her mouth, the sugar coating would melt, and the sweet and sour taste of the berry would disappear.

    I crushed the seeds between my teeth and swallowed.

    I tossed the skewer into the stall’s trash can.

    In Vandergant, stalls that produced such waste were required to have trash cans, and littering was punishable by a fine.

    Such measures helped maintain the beauty of the city—at the cost of some freedom.

    “Let’s go.”

    “Okay.”

    My sister naturally fell into step beside me.

    I glanced at Ciel, who, like a proper attendant, remained a few steps behind.

    The city was quietly sinking into darkness. The outlines of the brick walls and trees blurred… and combined with the evening chill, a slight sadness, a hint of melancholy and unease settled over me, blurring my sense of reality.

    Then, lights flickered on in the windows of the houses, and color returned to the world.

    With dinner time approaching, smoke curled from chimneys, and the occasional aroma of roasted meat or stew wafted through the air.

    The capital city of Vandergant was safe enough for a young woman to walk alone even after dark.

    Even so, I wanted to return before it became completely dark.

    Then, I heard a familiar voice.

    “[Lady Leticia! I never expected to meet you here.]”

    A bright, cheerful voice. A sunny smile, visible even in the twilight.

    My sister murmured his name.

    “Your Highness… Konrad…?”

    So, fate had decided they would meet here.

    Konrad von Eustasia, First Prince of the Kingdom of Eustasia.

    One of the [Capture Targets] of [Moonlight Liberium], head over heels for my sister, and the ‘prince’ who was first in line to the throne and not on good terms with me, her older sister.

  • My Girlfriend is a Cold and Aloof Sickly Beauty 60

    Chapter 60: I’ll Teach You Anything You Want to Learn

    At 9:55 the next morning, Xiao Luohan sat in the first-class cabin, curiously looking around.

    When Uncle Seuss drove them to the airport, she had seen the massive aircraft taking off.

    Understanding something from Jiang Xue’s descriptions, books, and videos was different from experiencing it firsthand. She had thought she would remain calm, but now, having gone through the boarding process and sitting inside the plane, she couldn’t wait to examine everything.

    Seeing her thoughts, Jiang Xue smiled. “No rush, we’ll be taking off soon. You sit down first and look around after we’ve stabilized.”

    The flight attendants were already checking seatbelts. During takeoff and landing, which would take about twenty minutes, the entire aircraft would be unstable. Walking around was prohibited during this time, and even the overhead compartments had to be closed.

    Xiao Luohan replied with an “Mm” and sat down next to her, imitating her actions and fastening her seatbelt.

    Their first-class seats were next to each other. By turning their seats, they could face each other. There were four windows in their “small compartment,” offering a wide view.

    “I have to look at the notes A-Xi sent later. There are also TV series and movies on the PTV, and I think there are even some games. If you’re interested, I can show you,” Jiang Xue said before takeoff.

    There wasn’t much vacation time left, and she had to catch up on the four days of missed studies while she couldn’t use the internet on the plane.

    Xiao Luohan hurriedly said, “No need to trouble yourself. Just tell me how to open the PTV, and I’ll explore on my own. That’s also quite enjoyable.”

    While Jiang Xue’s introductions were convenient, she wanted to develop the habit of exploring on her own.

    After all, some principles were universal, and she needed plenty of practice to turn the various principles of the new world into common sense.

    Jiang Xue thought this was fine too. It was a five-hour flight, and she had to catch up on her studies. It was best if Xiao Luo could find something to do herself.

    Soon after they made their decision, the plane was ready for takeoff.

    It was Xiao Luohan’s first time on a plane. As the aircraft started to bump during taxiing, and then the feeling of weightlessness and tinnitus during takeoff, she panicked slightly.

    She remembered that when she was still in the ancient world, her mother had shown her travelogues and asked her a question: “Xiao Luo, if you could travel, would you prefer to travel by land or by water?”

    She also remembered answering “by land” without hesitation.

    Traveling by water meant sailing on large rivers, and if a wave capsized the boat, or if the boat hit a reef and sank, everyone on board would fall into the water, their lives uncertain.

    Even though the imperial physician had predicted that she wouldn’t live long, she still wanted to live, so she naturally feared this life-threatening mode of transportation.

    But compared to water travel, air travel was even more terrifying.

    Xiao Luohan couldn’t explain why she was so afraid of flying, even though the Jiang sisters and Dr. Qi were nearby, and no matter what happened, she could see familiar and reliable people.

    “Xiao Luo.”

    Through the invisible barrier created by the tinnitus, she heard Jiang Xue call her name. “Don’t be afraid, we’re all here.”

    Then the hand resting by her side was held, and Jiang Xue gently patted the back of her hand, giving her a reassuring look.

    Xiao Luohan paused, and at that moment, she understood where her unease came from.

    There was a saying in both worlds, “extreme joy begets sorrow.”

    She had just escaped the mire and was finally going to stay with the person she liked, start a new life. At this moment of great joy, she was naturally afraid of losing it all.

    She was terrified of accidents, even more afraid that an accident would take away these kind people, leaving her with nothing, making her elder sister’s efforts in vain.

    Her elder sister had sent her to this world, not for her to lose everything again.

    Just as her unease and fear were about to reach their peak, Xiao Luohan saw something flash before her eyes.

    Jiang Xue, as if performing a magic trick, took out a notebook and a pen and waved them frantically in front of her. There seemed to be writing in the notebook.

    That’s right, they were both experiencing tinnitus. Compared to speaking loudly, it was indeed more convenient to communicate in writing.

    Composing herself, Xiao Luohan took the notebook and pen and looked down at the content.

    【Do you want to hear the story of my first plane ride?】

    Out of respect for her current intention, the sentence was written entirely in simplified characters.

    After reading it, she smiled, wrote an “Okay,” and returned the notebook and pen to Jiang Xue.

    Jiang Xue started writing immediately and quickly finished the story.

    【When I was little, I cried on my first plane ride.】

    【I cried during taxiing, I cried during takeoff, and I cried when I saw the houses, mountains, fields, and rivers below getting smaller and smaller.】

    【It wasn’t until we flew above the clouds and I saw the sea of clouds that I gradually stopped crying.】

    【It was truly a scene like the ocean! The descriptions in books weren’t exaggerated at all. The blue sky was the sea, and each cloud was an island, some connected, some solitary, and some scattered.】

    【Look, look out the window!】

    She had timed it perfectly, and when Xiao Luohan looked up, she saw the islands in the sky through the window.

    Even though it was winter, the clear sky was still azure blue.

    Her fingers twitched, but she didn’t have time to write to Jiang Xue. Instead, she took out her phone from her pocket, unlocked it, opened the camera, and took a few pictures of the clouds outside the window. Feeling that this wasn’t enough, she switched to video recording.

    Her fear vanished, and now she only wanted to record the sea of clouds outside the window, etching it into the memory of her first plane ride.

    Jiang Xue smiled as she watched Xiao Luohan immersed in the scenery, secretly relieved.

    On the other side of the first-class cabin, Dr. Qi, who was sitting with Jiang Mei, peeked over at them and started typing in the notes app on her phone.

    【Is it really okay to let their feelings deepen like this? Shouldn’t we tell that child?】

    Jiang Mei replied in her own notes app: 【Xiao Luo knows what kind of society we live in.】

    But Xiao Luo still did this—didn’t resist Jiang Xue’s approach or touch, even seemed to enjoy it, only choosing not to address it for various reasons.

    It wasn’t difficult to see or guess a young person’s feelings, but she didn’t know to what extent Jiang Xue had realized it.

    【There’s a natural attraction between them. Perhaps that’s why Xiao Linghan chose A-Xue,】 Jiang Mei continued typing.

    【…I think you should just believe Mr. Seuss’s theory. They’re the same soul in parallel worlds, and it’s this mutual attraction between the two souls. The entire process of establishing this bond is actually A-Xue saving herself.】

    After reading Dr. Qi’s message, Jiang Mei tapped her fingernails on the small table, not replying immediately.

    She believed in “love at first sight,” but for her sister and Xiao Luo, it might not be that simple.

    However, probably only Princess Zhemei, who had established the “connection” between the two worlds, knew the truth.

    【Both girls are almost adults. Let them decide for themselves. If it’s just dating, I don’t think we need to interfere.】

    【But if they really want to get married and have children, you might have to ask an institution to do a DNA test to determine the degree of genetic similarity.】

    Dr. Qi: …

    Why was she thinking so far ahead?!

    For the sake of her salary and their long-standing friendship, she twitched the corner of her eye and still replied seriously:

    【Don’t worry, they’re from two different worlds and eras. There’s no way they’re actually related by blood.】

    【If they really reach that stage, of course, I’ll take care of it. I wouldn’t trust anyone else with this.】

    The two silently finalized their follow-up plan.

    As the tinnitus gradually subsided, and the plane stabilized, Xiao Luohan unbuckled her seatbelt and began exploring the area around her seat.

    She opened all the compartments, large and small, carefully closing them after looking inside, and soon found a menu.

    “We’ll have lunch on the plane. You can think about what you want to order.” Jiang Xue had already started reading the notes A-Xi had taken, not looking up. “By the way, this airline’s braised rice and desserts are quite good. I had them once many years ago and never forgot them. I wonder if the taste has changed.”

    Xiao Luohan opened the menu, looked at it for a moment, and chose braised pork rice and a strawberry mille-feuille.

    It was 10:30 AM now, and there was still more than an hour until lunch. After asking Jiang Xue where the PTV was, she started exploring its contents.

    But there were too many movies and TV series stored in the PTV, making her dizzy. She exited and checked the games, and soon, she was engrossed in a game of chess.

    Jiang Xue would occasionally glance at Xiao Luohan while studying and found that she truly loved playing chess, even creating custom games and playing against herself. It must be a skill she developed during the ten-plus years of confinement in the cold palace.

    Feeling a little envious, she couldn’t help but say, “Want to play a game with me?”

    Then she was almost defeated so badly that she wanted to push Xiao Luohan towards her older sister—her older sister was very good at chess, and Go as well.

    “My mother and elder sister taught me how to play chess,” Xiao Luohan explained, closing the PTV, seeing her dejected expression. “But Elder Sister couldn’t come every day, so it was usually Mother who played with me.”

    “Later, after Mother taught me how to play against myself, I got used to it.” She reminisced. “But I’m very competitive. When playing with my left hand against my right, I would try my best to let my left hand win, and vice versa.”

    “So when you play against others, you don’t show any mercy.” Jiang Xue rested her chin on her hand, her eyes filled with envy. “Although I lost badly, I still have to say you’re amazing! Can I learn this?”

    “Of course,” Xiao Luohan nodded with a smile. “I’ll teach you anything you want to learn, as long as I know how.”

    “Then I’ll also ‘vice versa’,” Jiang Xue blinked, taking the opportunity to say, “Although I’ve given you so many books, I rarely ask how much you’ve actually understood, or how many questions you have.”

    Xiao Luohan thought for a moment. “The ones I understand best are popular novels. Then history textbooks, then English.”

    “Although the politics textbook is also interesting, it’s closely related to the rules of this world, so I haven’t understood much.”

    “…It’s cute that you find the politics textbook interesting,” Jiang Xue chuckled. “I’ll find my first-year textbooks for you later, and you can see which subjects you’re most interested in, and then work towards that in the future.”

    “Is this considered initial ‘career planning’?” Xiao Luohan asked.

    “I guess? I feel that ‘you can’t force a melon to be sweet.’ For subjects I really can’t understand, even if I know the related majors have good job prospects, I won’t get far if I choose them.” Jiang Xue shrugged. “It’s better to choose something I like and am good at, and strive for excellence.”

    “You can think about what you’re good at and what you’re passionate about.”

    Xiao Luohan fell into thought.

    Seeing this, Jiang Xue didn’t disturb her, letting her think quietly.

    Unexpectedly, she continued thinking until the plane was about to land.

    Jiang Xue had almost finished catching up on her studies. Looking up and seeing Xiao Luohan still writing and drawing in her notebook, she knew she had made another mistake.

    She hurriedly said, “Don’t worry too much! This kind of thing does take a lot of time and effort to consider and experiment…”

    “What if I’m not good at anything and not passionate about anything?”

    Xiao Luohan interrupted, her eyes filled with confusion.

    If she had to say what her obsession was, it was simply to live.

    To live longer, to live better. Now, this obsession had mostly been fulfilled.

    But in Jiang Xue’s world, just wanting to live didn’t seem to be enough.

    Jiang Xue paused, then reached out and took away the paper and pen. “Then don’t overthink it. Let things take their natural course, follow your heart.”

  • On How to Conquer System Fairies and Make Them Your Wives 209

    Chapter 209: A Patchwork of Night

    Despair filled Fu Zhe’s eyes.

    He knew that once he fell into Yu Ling’s hands, he was in grave danger.

    Even the Divine Son wouldn’t be able to save him.

    The small girl, her hands on her hips, her youthful face a mask of childish arrogance, stood before him, radiating an aura of power that made him tremble.

    He couldn’t even breathe.

    “One last chance.”

    Master’s eyes narrowed slightly, her voice cold and calm. “Where is the Divine Son?”

    Fu Zhe’s lips twitched, but he didn’t speak.

    “Sigh.”

    Master seemed to have expected this. She waved her hand dismissively.

    “Very well. Prepare yourself—”

    “Immortal Yu Ling,” Ye Huang’s voice suddenly rang out.

    Master turned to him, and he said, his gaze fixed on her, “Please, allow me to finish him.”

    Master blinked, then nodded.

    Ye Huang walked towards Fu Zhe, his eyes cold and hard.

    He would never forget this man.

    The man who had stood beside the Divine Son, the man called Fu Zhe, the man who had poisoned his wife and daughter.

    He would never forget his wife’s screams of agony, her body contorting in pain, her hands clutching her hair as the poison ravaged her body and mind.

    He would never forget his daughter’s vacant eyes, her once vibrant spirit extinguished, her body reduced to a lifeless doll.

    Ye Huang’s grip on his sword tightened, his eyes bloodshot.

    It was all his fault.

    Fu Zhe, deprived of his senses, could only feel the cold grip of fear tightening around his heart.

    A voice, like a demonic whisper from the depths of hell, echoed in his mind.

    “…For my wife and daughter,”

    “I will make you pay a thousandfold.”

    Master and Wan Yunhai left the cave. A moment later, a bloodcurdling scream, too horrific to describe, echoed from within.

    They ignored it. Master pulled out a jar of wine and took a long swig.

    “That should cripple Shen Li for a while.”

    “According to our intel, Fu Zhe was their most dangerous member, besides the Divine Son.” Wan Yunhai said softly. “His ability to nullify spiritual energy made him a threat to any cultivator. His death is a major blow to Shen Li.”

    Master, however, wasn’t as cheerful. She just sipped her wine quietly, wiping a drop of alcohol from her lips.

    “…It’s not enough.”

    “I won’t allow them to interfere with the Triennial Day.”

    Wan Yunhai hesitated. “But we still don’t know where the Divine Son is hiding.”

    Master stretched lazily.

    “Don’t worry.”

    “That brat will take care of it.”

    “You have that much faith in Chen Yin?” Wan Yunhai asked, curious.

    Master suddenly smiled, her eyes softening.

    “He promised me.”

    “…He won’t break his promise.”

    Meanwhile, in a distant location…

    The Divine Son, after ending his communication with Fu Zhe, frowned slightly, deep in thought.

    Then, he contacted another person.

    “Divine Son!”

    A masked figure knelt respectfully in a cave within the Ten Thousand Mountains.

    “…Why didn’t you inform us about the incident at the Wu Xuan Cave?”

    The Divine Son’s voice was calm, but there was a hint of disappointment in his tone.

    The masked figure lowered his head. “Divine Son, I was in the secret realm with the Grand Witch. I didn’t know what was happening outside.”

    “I had almost convinced her to join Shen Li, but now, with the attack from the three sects, she’ll be furious! All my efforts will have been wasted!”

    The Divine Son’s voice turned cold. “Are you blaming me?”

    The masked figure lowered his head even further.

    “…I wouldn’t dare.”

    “I’ve been too lenient with you, considering you’re a new member.”

    The Divine Son’s eyes, like flickering flames, narrowed dangerously. He extended a finger, and despite the vast distance, the masked figure groaned and collapsed to the ground, his body trembling uncontrollably.

    “If you hadn’t been so slow and incompetent in handling the Wu Xuan Cave matter, Fu Zhe wouldn’t have had to intervene.”

    “Do you know how much we’ve lost because of you?”

    The masked figure didn’t speak.

    He couldn’t.

    Finally, the Divine Son glanced at him dismissively and turned away.

    “Forget it.”

    “The Triennial Day is approaching. I can’t afford to lose another member.”

    “If the Wu Xuan Cave plan has failed, then abandon it. Return to headquarters immediately and prepare for the Triennial Day.”

    “…The headquarters is in Yunlin Province.”

    The masked figure, using all his strength, looked up.

    As the image before him disappeared, he collapsed to the ground, blood seeping from beneath his mask.

    As if he had suffered a grievous injury.

    “Use the Primordial Yellow Pill—” the System started to say,

    “No!”

    The masked figure interrupted sharply.

    His voice was weak and raspy. “I don’t have many points left.”

    “I’m saving them for a final showdown at the headquarters.”

    “But first, I have to tell him where it is…”

    He tried to stand up, but his legs gave way, and he collapsed again.

    The System was silent.

    “…Do you even realize how badly you’re injured?”

    “…It’s… fine.”

    “If you don’t use a healing pill, you might not even live to see him again.”

    The masked figure gritted his teeth. “I can handle it.”

    The System didn’t say anything more.

    It knew that its host had already accepted death.

    “System…” he whispered, struggling to stand up, “take me… back…”

    After a long silence, the System sighed softly.

    “One last time.”

    A faint light emanated from the ground, forming a teleportation formation.

    The masked figure, his breath ragged, his coughs tinged with blood, stumbled towards it.

    He was exhausted, his body battered and bruised.

    But…

    Chen Yin was waiting for him.

    If he could just tell him the location of Shen Li’s headquarters…

    He didn’t even realize he was smiling.

    A soft, gentle smile.

    He stepped into the formation, his body heavy with fatigue and pain.

    The scenery shifted, and he found himself back in the Wu Xuan Cave.

    Standing before Chen Yin’s room.

    He saw the figure he had been longing for.

    “Chen—” He reached out a trembling hand, about to speak,

    When his words died in his throat.

    Chen Yin was holding Qingying in his arms, her head resting on his chest, her breathing slow and even.

    His touch was gentle and protective, as if she were a precious treasure.

    …He carried her into the room and closed the door.

    The masked figure stood there for a long time, his gaze fixed on the closed door.

    The night was silent and still.

    Finally, the System whispered softly,

    “Are you… still going to tell him?”

    The masked figure’s lips moved silently.

    Then he turned away.

    “…No.”

    “Let’s… go.”

    Under the patchwork of moonlight and shadows, he walked away, his body weary and wounded, disappearing into the darkness.

  • Friend(GL) 118

    Chapter 118: Resentment

    You Ruxu looked at Zhou Tianzui, who was trying to maintain a casual demeanor, saying, “My stomach’s not feeling well, I…”

    Before she could finish, You Ruxu buried her face in Zhou Tianzui’s embrace. Zhou Tianzui froze, speechless. She asked, “What are you doing?”

    “Hugging you.” You Ruxu said, “I want to hug you.”

    She asked, “Are you also hurting?”

    Zhou Tianzui’s voice was tight, “No.”

    “I am.” You Ruxu’s usual reserved nature, her ability to initiate physical contact and verbalize her emotions, was unusual, forcing Zhou Tianzui to drop her pretense, “Why did you lie to me?”

    Zhou Tianzui asked, “Lie about what?”

    “Would lying make you feel better?” You Ruxu said, “Do you really want to break up with me?”

    Zhou Tianzui hesitated.

    You Ruxu continued, “You said we should try again,” looking up at Zhou Tianzui, “We haven’t even tried, and you’re already giving up on me?”

    Her eyes were red-rimmed, tears threatening to spill, but she didn’t cry, her lips pressed together in a stubborn line.

    Zhou Tianzui closed her eyes.

    She wanted to hug You Ruxu back, but she couldn’t lift her arms.

    You Ruxu said, “Your mother hates me, I know, she’s very angry, I also know, I can accept it, I can wait.”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “What if, it takes a long time?”

    “I can wait, even a year, ten years.” You Ruxu looked at her, her eyes filled with determination, “As long as you don’t break up with me, I can wait.”

    Zhou Tianzui was torn.

    She looked at You Ruxu, then thinking of Yu Qiao, the pain was a gaping wound, tearing her apart, paralyzing her. She was drawn to You Ruxu’s gentle promise, clinging to the sliver of hope for a future together, but she also couldn’t bear to see Yu Qiao suffer.

    Would her mother ever let go?

    Perhaps A Ran was right.

    They could try again, try again…

    Zhou Tianzui slowly raised her arms, wrapped them around You Ruxu’s waist, and buried her face in You Ruxu’s shoulder, holding her tightly.

    They were gone for quite a while. Song Chenyue said, “Should we go check on them?”

    Yao Zhao said, “Check on what? Just eat.”

    She had a vague understanding of their relationship now. They were closer than ordinary friends, perhaps because of You Ruxu’s earlier distress, or maybe they were discussing something important.

    As Yao Zhao had guessed, they returned together, You Ruxu’s expression much calmer now. They didn’t eat much, just finished their milk tea. Song Chenyue asked, “Want another one?”

    You Ruxu shook her head, “No, thank you.”

    Song Chenyue smiled. They enjoyed their meal, especially knowing that Yao Zhao was doing well, her grades improving. Before they left, Zhou Tianzui offered to take Yao Zhao shopping for clothes, and Yao Zhao said, “Thank you, Dr. Zhou, but I’ve already bought some.”

    Zhou Tianzui looked at her.

    Yao Zhao added, “By the way, Dr. Zhou, we saw Auntie earlier, while we were having dinner.”

    You Ruxu’s pupils constricted, she looked at Yao Zhao. Zhou Tianzui asked, “My mom?”

    Yao Zhao nodded, “Yes, she was eating at the restaurant across the street, with someone.”

    Zhou Tianzui smiled faintly and looked at You Ruxu, noticing her pale face, she swallowed the words on the tip of her tongue, and Yao Zhao said, “Then Sister, we should be going.”

    You Ruxu waved goodbye. The two girls, hand in hand, left, their laughter echoing behind them.

    At the intersection, You Ruxu looked at Zhou Tianzui.

    Zhou Tianzui said, “Should I drive you home?”

    You Ruxu said, “You should go home first, your mother might need you.”

    Having dinner at a restaurant on New Year’s Eve, she must have had a reason. Zhou Tianzui paused and said, “Okay.”

    You Ruxu, watching her turn to leave, “I’ll message you when I get home.”

    Would she reply this time?

    Zhou Tianzui said, “Okay.”

    You Ruxu’s heart felt lighter, a faint smile appearing on her face, the setting sun casting a warm glow on her profile, the smile a little fragile. Zhou Tianzui watched her quietly, and after a few minutes, they parted ways.

    Zhou Tianzui arrived home. Yu Qiao was still sitting on the sofa. Hearing her enter, she turned and said, “You’re back.”

    She knew Zhou Tianzui had been invited to dinner. No one had mentioned You Ruxu’s name at home all week, as if she had been completely erased from their lives, so Yu Qiao, receiving a call from Wu Xiulian earlier, had been surprised.

    Even more surprised to hear about the work journal.

    Her hands were burning, thinking about Wu Xiulian’s words, she was still furious. Zhou Tianzui, seeing her expression, asked, “What’s wrong?”

    Yu Qiao didn’t want to mention You Ruxu, “Nothing, have you eaten yet?”

    “I have.” Zhou Tianzui said, “What about you?”

    Yu Qiao hadn’t eaten anything, but she wasn’t hungry, so she nodded.

    Zhou Tianzui asked, “What did you eat?”

    Yu Qiao said, “Just something simple.”

    She stood up and went to the kitchen. Zhou Tianzui sat on the sofa, listening to the clattering of dishes. It was New Year’s Eve, dinner preparations started early, the sounds of fireworks and firecrackers outside incessant, the festive atmosphere intensifying. A neighbor knocked on the door, chatting, bringing over some food. Yu Qiao greeted them with a smile, and they mentioned Zhou Tianzui, “She’s not young anymore, is she? Thirty already?”

    “Yes, she’s not young anymore.”

    “Time to find a partner.”

    “Indeed, I heard that it’s harder to recover after giving birth at an older age.” The neighbor said to Yu Qiao, “And you’re still able to help with childcare now, but you won’t be able to in a few years.”

    Yu Qiao looked at Zhou Tianzui.

    Zhou Tianzui sat on the sofa, listening to their chatter, then looked up at Yu Qiao, their eyes meeting, “I can’t reason with that child, let her be, it’s her own life, whether she gets married or not.”

    “How can you just let her be? She’s enjoying her single life now, but what about when she’s old? We’ve been through it, we should guide her, how about I introduce my nephew to Xiao Tian?”

    Yu Qiao said, “You ask Xiao Tian yourself.”

    The neighbor looked at Zhou Tianzui, about to speak, when Zhou Tianzui said coldly, “Auntie Zhao, I’m not planning to get married.”

    Auntie Zhao, her enthusiasm dampened by Zhou Tianzui’s tone, chuckled awkwardly and exchanged a look with the other neighbor. Yu Qiao said, “Have some sunflower seeds.”

    “I left the stove on at home.” Auntie Zhao said, “I have to go back.”

    The other neighbor said, “I have to go take care of my granddaughter, I’ll be going now.”

    The previously lively living room was suddenly quiet again. Yu Qiao turned to Zhou Tianzui, “What was that about?”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “Mom, I was just being honest.”

    “Honest?” Yu Qiao said, “Giving me attitude again, is that it?” She abruptly stood up, “Or are you still thinking about that woman? Let me tell you, not a chance!”

    Zhou Tianzui looked up at Yu Qiao.

    Yu Qiao, furious, clearly not open to discussion. Zhou Tianzui, after a moment of silence, said, “I’m going to my room.”

    Just as she finished speaking, her phone vibrated. Yu Qiao stared at her, Zhou Tianzui’s expression calm. Yu Qiao asked, “Who is it?”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “A colleague.”

    Yu Qiao said, “Show me.”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “Mom…”

    “Show me!” Yu Qiao yelled, reaching for the phone. Zhou Tianzui held onto it. They struggled briefly. Yu Qiao, unable to snatch it, her eyes red with anger, asked, “Is it You Ruxu?”

    It had been a week since Yu Qiao last uttered that name, Zhou Tianzui was momentarily dazed.

    Yu Qiao, in a frenzy, tried to grab the phone. Zhou Tianzui stumbled back, hitting the sofa and falling onto it. Yu Qiao stood there, looking down at her, “Mom, please don’t do this.”

    “Do what?” Yu Qiao’s voice was cold, “Like you? Disobeying me behind my back?”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “A lot has happened recently, I think we should wait until we’ve calmed down before discussing the future.”

    Yu Qiao scoffed, “Discuss what future? Trying to convince me to accept you and You Ruxu?”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “I know you won’t accept it now.”

    “And I won’t accept it in the future either.” Yu Qiao said, “What else do you want to say? Are you going to defend her? Tell me how sorry she is, how she’s always wanted to return your father’s journal?”

    Zhou Tianzui’s expression changed slightly, “You know about that?”

    Yu Qiao said, “Of course I know, and if you’re trying to use this to excuse her actions, it won’t work.”

    “Mom, I’m not trying to excuse her actions.” Zhou Tianzui said, “I just want to say that she’s also made an effort, she hasn’t been happy all these years, she’s always felt guilty, just give her a chance to make amends…”

    “Make amends how?” Yu Qiao said, “By being with you? By taking care of me in my old age?”

    She chuckled, a bitter sound, “Xiao Tian, do you know what you’re saying?”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “I do.”

    “You don’t know anything!” Yu Qiao glared at her fiercely, “Do you love her that much? If I went to the TV station now, reported her for abusing her position to seduce you, for being in a relationship with you, for your shameful affair, do you think she would lose her job?”

    Zhou Tianzui’s face paled, “Mom?”

    She looked at Yu Qiao.

    Yu Qiao continued, “Do I seem like a stranger to you now? Xiao Tian, do you think I’m a stranger? Am I the one standing in the way of your happiness? A cruel and unreasonable mother, am I?”

    She said, “Xiao Tian, if I really did that, would you hate me?”

    Zhou Tianzui looked at her, silent.

    Yu Qiao said, “You think I’m making things up, slandering her, don’t you?”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “Mom, we don’t have to do this.”

    “No need for this?” Yu Qiao said, “Is it because it’s You Ruxu? If it weren’t her, would you still forgive me?”

    Zhou Tianzui didn’t answer, the memories of those agonizing years, the struggles, the pain, a roaring torrent threatening to consume her, her heart pierced by invisible blades, a numb, suffocating ache.

    Her body was tense. Yu Qiao looked down at her and asked, “Xiao Tian, just tell me, if I reported her, would you hate me? If I contacted her father and told him who Shi Ran is, would you resent me?”

    Yu Qiao continued, “You would, you would hate me, you would resent me.”

    Zhou Tianzui looked up at Yu Qiao.

    A firework exploded outside, illuminating Yu Qiao’s face, thin and pale, her expression grim, her voice soft and distant, “Xiao Tian, you see, if I really did that, you would even resent your own mother.”

    She looked out the window, her voice devoid of its usual hysteria, yet filled with a deep sorrow, “How can I forgive her?”

  • The Saintess Has A Showdown 183-184

    Chapter 183: First Place in the War Zone

    –Soul Prison Trial, Fourth Level, Tower of Heaven
    –Fourth Stage, 100th Floor

    The previous third level, the Dark Ages, was divided into three stages, lasting three sessions. The Tower of Heaven, however, was divided into four stages, lasting four sessions.

    Every 25 floors marked a new stage. Surviving spirit beasts could return to reality and recover, waiting for the next session to re-enter the trial.

    After four cycles, they had finally reached the final level, the summit of the Tower of Heaven!

    All remaining spirit beasts were transported to the starting point, a vast, empty, circular arena.

    The final ranking and rewards were determined by the order of defeat. As long as their team wasn’t completely wiped out, they had a chance to achieve a higher rank, earning valuable resources for their masters. Every spirit beast understood this.

    And then, the battle ended in an instant…

    All life melted away like butter, no spirit beast able to react, their end swift and absolute.

    Fortunately, having reached the fourth stage, there were no penalties for the Spirit Masters.

    Spirit Masters whose teams were eliminated in the first stage were frozen out of the trial for 20 sessions. Those eliminated in the second stage were frozen for 10 sessions. Those eliminated in the third received no penalty, but also no reward.

    And the spirit beasts that reached the fourth stage, not only wouldn’t hinder their masters, but they would also bring back substantial rewards, making their masters rejoice. Even being instantly defeated was worth it.

    She just didn’t know how the rankings were determined if everyone died simultaneously…

    The battle concluded, and only a single spirit beast remained in the arena.

    A woman with features as delicate as snow, her white hair shimmering like fireflies, her grayish-white eyes like those of someone with an eye disease, a disturbing and unsettling sight.

    Branches and leaves sprouted from her head, her icy antlers like a regal crown, her posture elegant, like a winter queen.

    And her slender, white legs, bent at the knees like a quadruped, added to her… unique charm.

    A legendary-rank White Flower Moon-Treading Deer!!!

    A legendary spirit beast, somehow having entered the Soul Prison Trial, slaughtering the other participants.

    It wouldn’t have been surprising if it had single-handedly conquered the entire trial.

    However, at this moment, this noble, cold, and beautiful deer woman was… stumped.

    She frowned at the massive ice coffin beside her. That Snow Monarch’s follower had actually stayed hidden inside, completely motionless for four entire sessions.

    After Gong Lianyue’s team had encountered the legendary being and been nearly wiped out in the first stage, the Frost Snow Woman had retreated into the Ice Coffin. No attack, no matter how powerful, could even scratch its surface.

    Even now, the legendary White Flower Moon-Treading Deer couldn’t find a way to break it.

    After all, that damned Snow Monarch possessed the legendary Eternal Holy Water, her cultivation level having surpassed the Sun and Moon Realm tens of thousands of years ago. It was an insurmountable foe for her, currently at the Dead Sea Stage.

    She couldn’t break the Snow Monarch’s ice.

    The little deer woman frowned, her mind racing.

    The rewards for the early levels of the Soul Prison Trial were mediocre, useless to a legendary being like herself. She needed to reach the later levels quickly. She couldn’t be held back by this.

    But if she didn’t deal with the Frost Snow Woman now, they would likely face each other again in the next session, this pointless cycle repeating endlessly.

    After a few minutes of hesitation, the little deer woman’s expression hardened, a decision made.

    “How annoying…”

    “Ptoo!”

    The little deer woman spat on the ice coffin, marking it with her aura, then glared at it.

    She wouldn’t forget this humiliation. She would have her revenge one day.

    The next second, the little deer woman dissolved into a puddle of water.

    She had committed suicide!

    Silence. Two hours passed. Just as the trial was about to end, the ice coffin opened slightly, and the Frost Snow Woman cautiously emerged, a small, ice-blue flower clutched in her hand.

    That legendary-rank spirit beast thought it had come in second, but it was actually third…

    Just before the Frost Snow Woman had entered the Ice Coffin, this little flower, carrying the Wrathful Saintess’s aura, had slipped in with her. The Ice Coffin completely isolated all external auras, so the White Flower Moon-Treading Deer hadn’t even known there was another spirit beast inside.

    [According to the rules, rankings are determined by the order of defeat. One of us has to die.]

    The Frost Snow Woman, after much gesturing and struggling to communicate, finally conveyed the rule to the little blue flower.

    The little blue flower nodded gratefully, then inexplicably withered and died.

    Looking at the lifeless flower, the Frost Snow Woman’s expression turned to confusion. She had been planning to decide the victor with a game of rock-paper-scissors.

    [Soul Prison Trial, Fourth Level, concluded. Congratulations on achieving first place in War Zone 1309. Reward: one Saint-Breaking Pill, one Heart Severing Pill.]
    [Soul Prison Trial, Fourth Level, concluded. Congratulations on achieving first place in War Zone 1309. Reward: one Saint-Breaking Pill, one Heart Severing Pill.]

    On the eve of the Ranking Battle, deep in meditation, Gong Lianyue was startled by the two consecutive announcements from the Soul Prison Trial, the sudden surge of spirit energy almost causing the Saintess Palace to collapse.

    She repeatedly checked her soul cores, making sure she hadn’t imagined it.

    The incredibly valuable Saint-Breaking Pill and Heart Severing Pill had already been delivered to her storage bracelet.

    Ten thousand Spirit Masters per war zone, a massive free-for-all, countless Saint-rank spirit beasts… and she had achieved first place, even though her entire team, besides the Frost Snow Woman, had been wiped out…?

    The Saint-Breaking Pill could evolve a high-rank spirit beast into a Saint-rank of a similar lineage, while the Heart Severing Pill could dissolve any number of spirit beast contracts, allowing her to release those useless early contracts.

    Both pills were incredibly rare and valuable, worth more than the entire Sea Concubine Palace. Still, as a reward for first place, it wasn’t entirely unreasonable.

    “What the hell? How did I get first place?”

    Gong Lianyue muttered, her mind still reeling, unable to believe it.

    First place in War Zone 1309… Didn’t that mean that every Spirit Master in the Sea Region, the Wind Realm, the Cangsheng Palace, the Sun-Seizing Divine Metropolis, even the distant Endless Swamp and the Azure Spirit Realm, had been defeated by the Frost Snow Woman?

    A Saint-Breaking Pill and a Heart Severing Pill… it was like winning the lottery, an absurdly fortunate encounter, even by the standards of wish-fulfillment novels. How had this happened to her?

    Regardless, the Ranking Battle was tomorrow. She would use the Saint-Breaking Pill first…

    Chapter 184: The Ranking Battle Begins

    The Sea Region Ranking Battle was held shortly after each Saintess selection, the interval varying depending on the circumstances.

    For example, Shui Yuerong of the Sea Concubine Palace, a thousand years ago, considered the strongest Saintess in the history of the Sea Region, had reached the Sun and Moon Realm in just two years, forcing the other Saintesses to abdicate.

    Legendary beings preferred young, delicate Spirit Masters. Sun and Moon Realm Spirit Masters were considered old women, no longer able to attract them with their scent.

    Therefore, once someone reached the Sun and Moon Realm, the Saintess selection would be held again, followed by the Ranking Battle.

    The longest interval between selections was eighty or ninety years, the shortest being less than two years, during Shui Yuerong’s time.

    The Sea Region Ranking Battle was a crucial event that determined the hierarchy of power within the Sea Region.

    The higher the ranking, the greater the allocation of resources and prestige.

    Almost all the Spirit Masters in the Sea Region would attend, even unaffiliated rogue cultivators, a grand spectacle.

    Those who excelled in this competition, under the watchful eyes of all, would gain immense fame and prestige, becoming the undisputed leader of the Sea Region.

    Sea Region, Ranking Battle

    A massive arena, large enough to cover the entire visible sea, carried by countless giant spirit beasts from the Winter Floating Sky, slowly rose from the depths of the ocean.

    This arena, built specifically for the Ranking Battle, was far larger and more impressive than the Sea Concubine Palace’s Sea Dou Hall.

    The Water Heart Stage, kept by the current ruling faction of the Sea Region.

    As the Water Heart Stage rose, it created massive waves, the surrounding sea churning for hundreds of kilometers.

    Its massive size accommodated not only the millions of spectators but also the large spirit beasts that would be participating.

    The Sea Concubine Palace’s representatives were gathered inside a Sea Halberd Behemoth, waiting in their designated area.

    The Sea Region Ranking Battle consisted of three parts: Duels, Tests, and the Final Battle.

    [Duels] were 1v1 matches held in the arena. Victory earned points, defeat lost points. Each faction had five opportunities to challenge other factions, and only Dead Sea Stage Spirit Masters could participate.

    [Tests] consisted of five randomly selected challenges from a list including strength, speed, spirit energy capacity, talent, cultivation technique, intelligence, reflexes, etc. Each faction chose a Spirit Master for each test, earning points based on their ranking.

    [Final Battle] was the most important part of the Ranking Battle, where the most points could be earned.

    Each faction selected five Spirit Masters to enter a secret realm and engage in a chaotic free-for-all against other factions. The final victor received a massive amount of points.

    The most important rule was that each Spirit Master could only participate in one event, including the Saintess. Once they participated in one, they couldn’t participate in another.

    Therefore, lower-ranked factions usually focused on earning points in the first two events, forfeiting the Final Battle, hoping to avoid last place.

    Those aiming for the top, however, would focus all their efforts on the Final Battle, saving their trump cards for the end.

    This meant that each faction would select their fifteen strongest Dead Sea Stage Spirit Masters to represent them.

    After the rules were explained by the higher-ups of each faction, the participants were quickly assigned, their roles fixed.

    [Sea Concubine Palace – Sorrowful Saintess, participating in the Final Battle.]

    The Sea Concubine Palace was serious…

    The other factions’ Spirit Masters, upon seeing the Sea Concubine Palace’s participant list, became apprehensive.

    This was the first time in recent history that the Sea Concubine Palace had sent their Saintess to the Final Battle. They had always focused on the first two rounds, accumulating points steadily.

    However, this Sorrowful Saintess’s reputation was simply too terrifying. Not sending her to the final, decisive battle would be… strange.

    This also meant that the other factions wouldn’t likely take the first two rounds seriously.

    —

    Water Heart Stage

    The Water Heart Stage, having been stored away for several years, was retrieved from the depths of the ocean, its surface pristine and shimmering, like a magnificent crystal palace.

    Spirit Masters from various factions began to arrive, not only from the Sea Region Alliance but also from their subsidiary forces.

    For example, smaller factions like the Water Immortal Palace, the Sky Surge River, and the Drowning Sea, or independent rogue cultivators, affiliated with the Sea Region Alliance but not qualified to participate, were here to simply observe and enjoy the spectacle.

    “Did you hear? The Sorrowful Saintess of the Sea Concubine Palace will be participating in the Final Battle,” a Spirit Master from a smaller faction said, barely having taken her seat.

    “The Winter Floating Sky, the Ice Shield Palace, the Sea Concubine Palace, and the Cold Court… their main forces are all in the Final Battle. They’re probably targeting the Pool of Hidden Secrets, right…?”

    “Yeah, I don’t care who becomes the Alliance leader, whether it’s the Winter Floating Sky or the Sea Concubine Palace, but if the Pool of Hidden Secrets wins… it will be chaos!”

    “That Nether Empress… I bet she’ll provoke another legendary spirit beast and bring disaster upon the Sea Region!!”

    “…”
    “…”

    A wave of unease rippled through the crowd. They each had their preferred factions, but now, they all shared a single hope: that the Pool of Hidden Secrets wouldn’t win.

    Please don’t let the Pool of Hidden Secrets win.jpg

    Meanwhile, in the Pool of Hidden Secrets’ waiting area…

    Fifteen black-haired female Spirit Masters sat in silence, the oppressive aura radiating from them almost suffocating.

    The woman at the front, a single teardrop painted on her forehead, her expression cold and indifferent, her chilling aura so powerful that no one dared to look directly at her.

    Hei Luelan, disciple of the Nether Empress.

    Her aura was even more terrifying than the Nine Nethers’, her dense spirit energy like that of a being from another world.

    This was far beyond the level of a Dead Sea Stage Spirit Master…

    As the Ranking Battle approached, Hei Luelan discreetly glanced at her companions, then tightened her grip on a single white hair in her hand, recalling the Nether Empress’s words.

    “Do you know? Legendary beings can sense every part of themselves, whether it’s a drop of blood, a strand of hair, or even a drop of saliva. They might even come looking for it.”

  • The Devil Does Not Need to Be Defeated 510

    Chapter 510: “There’s No Room for a Third Person.”

    Elven Homeland, Tree House.

    When Shien returned with Millu, before they even entered, Carol, who had been anxiously pacing outside, silently excused herself.

    Having guessed Lid’s identity, this vice-commander was undoubtedly worried about the Elven Queen and went to check on the situation.

    Shien ignored her and entered the tree house with Millu, seeing the others gathered in the living room, waiting for him.

    “You’re finally back?”

    Lucy, sitting there, looked at Shien entering and sighed for some reason.

    “Welcome back, Mr. Shien.”

    Lasha’s indifferent demeanor reminded Shien of the time he didn’t come home at night, and his expression turned awkward.

    “Thud!”

    Lilith, without a word, immediately pounced into Shien’s arms, hugging him tightly, her face showing both relief and grievance.

    “Sorry, sorry, I made you worry.”

    Shien, feeling heartbroken, patted her head and comforted her.

    Everyone had been waiting for Shien’s return and was finally relieved.

    Only Airi didn’t have the energy to pay attention to Shien.

    Because…

    “Airi! Airi!”

    Millu’s eyes lit up the moment she saw Airi, letting out the loudest cheer yet, then, like Lilith, pounced on her.

    “It’s really you!”

    Airi, seemingly having anticipated Millu’s arrival, sighed and tried to dodge, but she couldn’t avoid Millu’s pounce.

    Millu hugged Airi tightly, rubbing her face against hers and cheering happily.

    “Airi! Airi!”

    Millu’s joyful laughter filled the tree house.

    That laughter was infectious.

    However, seeing this unfamiliar little girl suddenly hugging Airi, making her look displeased, everyone was still startled.

    “Could this be…!?”

    Lucy’s eyes widened in surprise.

    “…”

    Lasha also looked at Millu, silent, her eyes lowered.

    “?”

    Lilith tilted her head, confused.

    Especially seeing Airi’s unwilling expression, yet unable to resist Millu’s hug and nuzzling, everyone’s surprise was evident.

    If there were others here, they would definitely be shocked.

    Airi, the Dragon Demon, one of the Six Demon Lords, known as the most ferocious being, was being hugged tightly by a little girl, seemingly displeased, yet unable to resist. This scene could definitely leave anyone stunned.

    Shien, however, looked as if he had expected this.

    “As expected, this girl is a Demon Lord.”

    Yes.

    Millu was a Demon Lord.

    In other words, this seemingly innocent, naive, and romantic little girl was the sister of Airi, Sara, and Lid.

    Lucy murmured in surprise,

    “Millu Peshi, the Ghost Demon…”

    —”Millu Peshi.”

    This was Millu’s real name.

    Millu was just a nickname.

    The same went for Lid, who had been using a nickname. Her real name hadn’t been revealed yet.

    “Airi! Airi! Airi!”

    Millu hugged Airi tightly, like a beloved toy, chanting her name happily.

    Airi, on the other hand, was displeased with Millu’s actions.

    “Alright, stop it.” Airi said with annoyance. “Getting so excited every time you see your sister, how lonely are you?”

    “Yes, yes!” Millu nodded repeatedly, looking pitiful. “Millu, lonely, Airi, always gone.”

    The little girl looked aggrieved.

    Unfortunately, Airi, with her heart of stone, wasn’t moved by this at all.

    “Cut it out.” Airi saw through Millu’s act. “You’re always with Lid. How could you be lonely?”

    Others might not know, but Airi knew very well.

    Millu always had Lid by her side, never acting alone.

    The reason was simple: this Ghost Demon’s mind wasn’t mature. Like a spoiled child, she rarely had her own judgment or principles.

    If someone dangled a lollipop in front of her, this Ghost Demon would definitely follow them, easily deceived, and potentially causing a huge disaster.

    Therefore, no one would let Millu act alone.

    And Lid, if she acted alone, once she entered a battle, would become incredibly dangerous.

    Therefore, these two sisters, one girl and one beast, had been together for more than ten thousand years, always acting together. One usually restrained her power, appearing weaker and under Millu’s protection for convenience, while the other acted according to Lid’s instructions, preventing them from going off track and causing trouble.

    Under such circumstances, Millu always had Lid by her side and couldn’t possibly be lonely.

    Of course…

    “It’s different.” Millu said seriously, “Lid is older sister, Airi is younger sister.”

    “What’s the difference?” Airi retorted, “They’re both accompanying you. Isn’t it the same whether it’s an older or younger sister?”

    “Mmm…” Millu puffed out her cheeks and protested, “Different, different.”

    “Sigh…” Airi said with a headache, “Always being difficult. Who’s the older sister, and who’s the younger sister?”

    The two sisters, reunited after a long separation, started bickering.

    It was quite an amusing sight, making Shien watch with interest.

    “Hiss~~~”

    Suddenly, a sharp pain in his waist made Shien gasp.

    “You…”

    Lucy had come to Shien’s side at some point, pinching the flesh on his waist angrily.

    “What are you doing?”

    Shien complained.

    But this was met with Lucy’s glare.

    “I should be the one asking, what have you been doing?” Lucy asked in a low but aggressive voice, “What did you do? Why are you with the Ghost Demon? Why is she here? What happened?”

    Lucy bombarded him with questions.

    Millu’s appearance had clearly made the princess anxious.

    “Well, it’s a long story.”

    Shien didn’t know how to explain.

    Could he say that he met her by chance while bathing?

    That would be ridiculous!

    “Then make it short!”

    Lucy didn’t let Shien off the hook.

    The couple started bickering, attracting Lilith’s attention.

    None of the three noticed that Millu, who was clinging to Airi, suddenly glanced at Lasha, who was standing there expressionlessly, and her innocent smile froze, her body trembling, as if stunned.

    “Millu…?”

    Airi noticed this, her expression turning serious, a bad feeling rising in her heart.

    Millu just stared blankly at Lasha, not reacting at all.

    Looking at Millu like this, Lasha, unusually, didn’t bow, but just stared at her, then reached out and patted Millu’s head.

    This action not only stunned Airi, but also caused Millu’s emotions to erupt.

    “Waaah…”

    Millu burst into tears.

    “Huh?”

    “What?”

    Shien and Lucy, who had been bickering, finally noticed this and looked at the crying Millu, dumbfounded.

    “This…”

    Even Airi was at a loss.

    Lasha, however, remained unmoved, gently stroking Millu’s head, as if comforting her silently.

    This development silenced the entire tree house.

    Everyone looked at each other, not knowing what to do.

    This scene lasted for an unknown amount of time.

    Until a faint voice came,

    “Alright, Millu, stop crying.”

    With this voice, the fluffy and mysterious little beast appeared in the treehouse.

    “Huh?”

    Lilith blinked her eyes.

    “Y-you… you’re…!?”

    Lucy was shocked, her expression changing drastically.

    “Sister Lid…”

    Airi turned her gaze to Lid.

    As for Lasha, she stopped what she was doing, looked at Lid, and finally knelt down.

    “Lasha greets Your Highness Liddoma.”

    Lasha, just like when she first met Sara and Airi, bowed respectfully to Lid.

    “…Get up, don’t kneel.”

    Lid looked at Lasha with a complicated expression, then said with an impassive face, a slight tremor in her voice.

    “Yes.”

    Lasha obeyed, like a humble maid, but her expression remained indifferent.

    “Lid…”

    Millu, her face streaked with tears, turned to Lid as if seeing a lifeline.

    Lid sighed and turned her gaze to Shien.

    “Millu and I will be staying here for a while.” Lid said to Shien, “Is that alright?”

    Shien frowned, his gaze sweeping over Airi, Millu, Lid, and Lasha, then he relaxed his expression and shrugged.

    “This isn’t my territory. Why are you asking me?”

    In other words, do as you please, no need to tell him.

    “Alright.” Lid didn’t stand on ceremony and said to Airi, “We’ll share a room. Tell me everything. What’s going on?”

    “…What are you referring to?” Airi’s tone was distant.

    This naturally earned her a glare from Lid.

    “Of course, I’m referring to when you woke up, when you came to the human world, and why you’ve been messing around here for so long!” Lid snorted. “You better tell me everything that happened after you came to the human world!”

    “Why?” Airi still protested. “I’m not Millu. I don’t need to be questioned about everything I do, do I?”

    “Do you really think so?” Lid narrowed her eyes. “Do you want to have a family meeting and see?”

    Airi immediately shut up.

    That would definitely be a bad thing for her.

    Because this so-called family meeting was a gathering of the six Demon Lord sisters to discuss matters.

    If that happened, regardless of the outcome, during the process, she, as the youngest sister, would definitely be the one being picked on.

    In the past family meetings, Airi had always been the one at a disadvantage.

    These plastic sisters always played this trick. It was hateful.

    Especially Lid, who loved using this to suppress her younger sisters.

    Speaking of this, it was necessary to mention the order of the six Demon Lord sisters.

    Firstly, Sara was undoubtedly the eldest sister, the firstborn.

    The second eldest was the Charm Demon, second only to Sara among the six sisters, considered the second-in-command of the Demon Race.

    Then there was Lid, the third eldest, with three younger sisters.

    The Poison Demon was the fourth.

    Millu, the Ghost Demon, was the fifth.

    And finally, there was Airi, the youngest, the baby of the six sisters.

    And as everyone knew, the youngest sister had no rights. Airi always felt that she was being persecuted by her five older sisters.

    Which older sisters would take turns using their younger sister as a body pillow, refusing to sleep without hugging her?

    Which older sisters would force their younger sister to bathe with them and always touch her inappropriately?

    Which older sisters would treat their younger sister like a doll, always wanting to play dress-up?

    Which older sisters would interrogate their younger sister about everything she did, treating her like a pet, always keeping her at home?

    Airi had them!

    And she had five of them!

    Even Millu was persecuting her!

    Therefore, Airi had become a bit rebellious, not wanting to listen to her sisters at all.

    However, if Shien knew about this, he would definitely say without hesitation,

    “Is this persecution? This is clearly the doting of a group of siscons!”

    This was the truth.

    However, Airi would never think this way.

    Therefore, Airi could only resist.

    “I don’t want to share a room with you.”

    The youngest sister, rebelling online.

    “Oh?” Lid seemed used to this and said nonchalantly, “Give me a reason.”

    Airi really wanted to say that there was no reason, she just didn’t want to.

    But she also knew that if she said that, she would be seen as a spoiled child and be ruthlessly suppressed.

    Lid knew very well that Airi hated being treated like a child.

    Under such circumstances, as long as Airi didn’t give a reasonable excuse, she would definitely be provoked by Lid and forced to accept sharing a room.

    Knowing this routine, Airi racked her brains.

    After a while, Airi seemed to have an idea and turned her gaze to Shien.

    “…”

    Sensing Airi’s gaze, Shien’s lips twitched.

    A sense of foreboding, a premonition of impending doom, suddenly arose in his heart.

    And the next moment, Airi’s words confirmed his premonition.

    “I’ll stay with that man.”

    Airi pointed at Shien and said loudly,

    “We always share a room. There’s no room for a third person.”

    The air instantly froze.

    Shien felt his vision darken, a single word appearing in his mind.

    That word was—”Danger.”

  • Reborn to Stew Soup (GL) 122

    Chapter 122: Kiss, Kiss, Kiss

    “Now… do you understand what kind of ‘like’ I mean?”

    Their lips, which had been lightly touching, parted slightly as Mi Hongdou spoke. But their foreheads still touched, their bodies still intertwined, their arms around each other as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

    Ji Junxin’s tears had stopped during their passionate, almost accidental first kiss. Now, Mi Hongdou’s warm breath on her cheek sent shivers down her spine. Even though they had just kissed, her mind still hazy, that warm breath rekindled the desire, and Ji Junxin, her head lowered, quickly licked her lips.

    “What, you still don’t understand?” Mi Hongdou gently tightened her arm around Ji Junxin’s waist.

    Ji Junxin, already weak and pliant from the kiss, swayed slightly with Mi Hongdou’s movement. Leaning back was fine, but leaning forward meant practically falling onto Mi Hongdou. She squirmed slightly, embarrassed.

    Mi Hongdou, thinking that her embrace was too tight, loosened her grip.

    The comforting warmth disappeared, and Ji Junxin bit her lip, a little unhappy. But asking for another kiss, another embrace, so soon, wouldn’t that be too… forward?

    So, Mi Hongdou, waiting for an answer, watched as Ji Junxin, who had just been a soft, pliant mess, slowly lifted her head, blinked her teary eyes, let out a soft “hmph,” and then, pouting slightly, asked, “If you’ve always liked me, why didn’t you tell me?”

    This was a dangerous question, one that could easily ruin everything!

    “Because… I… wanted to pursue you… but I hadn’t had the chance…” Mi Hongdou chose the most plausible truth from her tangled thoughts.

    And then she watched as Ji Junxin’s face turned redder and redder, her gaze darting around.

    She wasn’t happy with this answer? It was the most honest answer she could give…

    Just as Mi Hongdou started to panic, Ji Junxin, fiddling with her clothes, her gaze averted, whispered, “Then… wasn’t I… too forward… just now…” Was it too impulsive, too immodest?

    “No… no, no…” Mi Hongdou, seeing Ji Junxin’s eyes watering again, quickly reassured her. “Not at all. It’s… wonderful… if you hadn’t said anything, I don’t know how long I would have waited. It’s wonderful, you’re… wonderful.”

    Mi Hongdou rambled, not even knowing what she was saying. Fortunately, her words seemed to have calmed Ji Junxin down.

    Relieved, Mi Hongdou chuckled, “They say after a confession, you’re supposed to be all lovey-dovey, but we’re just… asking questions…”

    Ji Junxin glared at her playfully. “Well, you weren’t the one who confessed.”

    Didn’t my earlier words count as a confession? Mi Hongdou thought, then, seeing Ji Junxin’s slightly arrogant expression, her heart softened. She, who had lived two lifetimes, had actually been the one being confessed to…

    Ji Junxin’s hand, which had been nervously fiddling with her clothes, was suddenly held by Mi Hongdou. The warm, soft touch made her shiver slightly, but she didn’t pull away, just letting Mi Hongdou hold her hand.

    “I like you very much, very, very much. If possible, can you give me a chance to… take care of you? Be with…” Before Mi Hongdou could finish, Ji Junxin was already nodding, and Mi Hongdou felt a pang of bittersweetness in her heart. I was so blind, when did she start liking me, how long has she been struggling with it… She could write a book about the struggles of having a crush on a girl. And the thought that she had been so oblivious, making Ji Junxin also go through this, made her heart ache.

    Although Ji Junxin had already agreed, Mi Hongdou still finished her sentence. “Be with… me?”

    The answer, naturally, was yes.

    Mi Hongdou, her eyes slightly red, pulled Ji Junxin into her arms.

    Just like this, just holding her like this…

    “The cockroach… we’ve been in here too long…” Ji Junxin mumbled against Mi Hongdou’s shoulder, wiping away her tears. “We should go out.”

    Oh… damn it!

    “But I haven’t asked you when you started liking me, what you like about me…” Although she knew they had to leave, Mi Hongdou tightened her embrace, reluctant. “I still have so many questions…”

    Ji Junxin squirmed slightly, her body pliant in Mi Hongdou’s arms, but her voice firm. “We’re together now, what’s the point of asking so many questions? Should I tell you what I like, so you can change?”

    What the hell!

    Mi Hongdou, amused and exasperated, released her. “Do you think I’m that stupid?”

    “Hmph.” Ji Junxin turned, one hand on the shower door handle, the other pointing at her slippers on the floor outside. “You kill it later.”

    “You’re acting spoiled,” Mi Hongdou said, placing her hand over Ji Junxin’s and stopping her from opening the door. “You’re so cute when you’re like this, do you know that?”

    I don’t want to know!

    Her supposedly grand confession had turned into a teary, whispered one, how embarrassing, and now Mi Hongdou was calling her cute… I’m not cute! I’m leaving!

    “One more kiss…”

    Mi Hongdou’s soft whisper stopped Ji Junxin.

    Ji Junxin slowly turned around, her face flushed, a “what can I do with you” expression, and nodded slightly.

    Then…

    Then neither of them moved.

    They stared at each other…

    Ji Junxin was stunned. Did she mean… I should kiss her? No way! I’m not playing anymore!

    That “I can’t do anything with you” expression, the shy nod, the widening eyes, all so cute! How can she be so adorable!

    Mi Hongdou, who had been enjoying Ji Junxin’s expressions, noticed that she was about to flee.

    “Hey…” She stopped Ji Junxin’s hand and closed the shower door. “Don’t go yet…”

    “The viewers will think our bathroom is infested with cockroaches…” Ji Junxin said, shuddering at the thought.

    “But there aren’t any,” Mi Hongdou reassured her.

    “Hmph.” Ji Junxin wasn’t appeased.

    Although reluctant to leave, Mi Hongdou knew that if they didn’t go out soon, the crew would come knocking.

    A reality show where you can’t even show affection, what kind of reality show is that, hmph!

    “What are you doing…” Ji Junxin gently pushed Mi Hongdou away as she leaned closer.

    “One more kiss,” Mi Hongdou said, putting her arm around Ji Junxin’s waist and pulling her closer.

    Ji Junxin’s hand was still on Mi Hongdou’s chest, but she didn’t push her away.

    Unlike her earlier impulsive kiss, this time, as Mi Hongdou slowly approached, before their lips even touched, Ji Junxin’s heart pounded.

    Mi Hongdou was also nervous, but this nervousness was overshadowed by the thought that once they left, she wouldn’t be able to touch Ji Junxin like this, and by Ji Junxin’s adorable expression. Beauty emboldens the heart.

    Just a spark, and the dry kindling ignited…

    No more guessing or testing, only need and desire.

    The initial touch was hesitant, then, as the warmth spread, igniting them both, an eager invasion met with a passionate response, their love conveyed in their mingled breaths…

    A soft moan, a body melting, a heart pounding, they clung to each other, wanting more.

    As if nothing else mattered, only the desire…

    “Jun… Junxin…” Mi Hongdou, her voice breathless, clung to the last shred of her rationality, then grabbed Ji Junxin’s hand. “Your… your hand…”

    Ji Junxin, leaning against the glass wall for support, her eyes hazy, followed Mi Hongdou’s gaze.

    And then, the earlier passion instantly cooled.

    “I…” She quickly retracted her hand, which, she hadn’t even realized, had been gripping Mi Hongdou’s breast, and darted out of the shower like a startled rabbit.

    That soft feeling… I don’t remember it… and my hand… it wasn’t me! Ji Junxin, her face burning, stood outside the shower, not knowing what to do with her hands and feet.

    Mi Hongdou: …She was the one who touched me!

    An awkward silence lingered.

    “I’ll… go out first, you continue with your shower,” Mi Hongdou said, finally recovering, grabbing her slippers and going to the door. She knocked a few times and said loudly, “Hmph, I can’t even hit you!” Then she went to the toilet and flushed it, although she didn’t need to use it.

    Ji Junxin shivered slightly. Was she angry because I… touched her?

    Mi Hongdou, unaware of Ji Junxin’s thoughts, thinking that Ji Junxin was embarrassed because she had called her out, said, “I’ll… go out now…”

    Ji Junxin nodded slightly, fiddling with her clothes.

    Mi Hongdou washed her face, trying to cool down, then, annoyed with this reality show, returned to her room.

    She had to put on her bedsheets. As she did, her face felt warm again. The shape of the bunched-up blanket reminded her of… Ji Junxin’s hand on her… earlier…

    Mi Hongdou’s earlier interruption had mostly been due to the time and place… she didn’t think that… that itself was inappropriate.

    But Ji Junxin, who seemed so soft and innocent… why had she… initiated it? Something felt… off.

    While Mi Hongdou was making her bed, Ji Junxin, in the bathroom, was gently touching the hand that had just… misbehaved.

    Was I… too hasty? We just got together. But… it wasn’t my intention!

    It’s all Mi Hongdou’s fault, wanting another kiss, and another, and another… until I lost control!

    It’s all her fault!

    But…

    So soft…

    The uniform is a bit thick…

    Annoying…