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  • Inferior A After Having a Baby with the Top Boss 41

    Chapter 41: “Jiejie, Is This Pressure Okay?”

    The silver-white security door opened automatically from the inside.

    Countless rays of light streamed outwards, elongating Ming Fei’s shadow on the floor.

    Ming Fei put her phone back into her pajama pocket, trying to appear more composed. But the moment she actually stepped into the master bedroom on the third floor, she still stiffened, her steps almost clumsy, like an experimental robot in its early stages of development.

    After she fully entered the room, the security door automatically closed behind her.

    This was the first time Ming Fei had entered Zhu Yiqiao’s bedroom. She maintained her politeness, not glancing around this private space.

    As she stepped onto the soft carpet, she saw Zhu Yiqiao sitting by the sofa.

    She didn’t hesitate, walking towards Zhu Yiqiao.

    At this moment, Ming Fei had clearly entered the second phase of experimental development, her movements more agile, her expression no longer stiff.

    Soon, she stopped in front of Zhu Yiqiao: “…Jiejie.”

    Zhu Yiqiao, having just finished washing up, was wearing a plain black nightgown, the ends of her long, curly hair still damp.

    She wore a pheromone bracelet identical to Ming Fei’s. The black nightgown was fastened by a single tie, her delicate, jade-like collarbone faintly visible.

    Faintly, Ming Fei smelled a very light woody scent.

    So faint that her pheromone bracelet didn’t react at all.

    Ming Fei guessed that she must have been mistaken and suppressed her doubts, quietly observing Zhu Yiqiao’s movements.

    “Is Zaozao asleep?” Zhu Yiqiao asked.

    Ming Fei nodded: “She fell asleep twenty minutes ago.”

    “Mm.”

    Zhu Yiqiao closed the thick book in her hand and finally looked up at the person in front of her. Her gaze was still devoid of any particular emotion, like a calm sea, only likely to surge with waves after darkness fell.

    Outside the window, the night was as cool as water, pitch black. In early November in the Independent State of Yi Meng, light snow had begun to fall, and the sleet weighed down the plants in the garden.

    Ming Fei didn’t sit down, standing straight like a student called upon by the teacher.

    After careful consideration, she decided to be more proactive.

    After all, finishing early meant she could go back to sleep with Ming Zaozao sooner, and it wouldn’t delay Zhu Yiqiao’s rest either.

    Therefore, Ming Fei, who usually waited, observed, and hid behind her safety valve, took the initiative today.

    She asked, “Jiejie, what… should I do?”

    “You don’t know anything at all?”

    Ming Fei, having thought it through, was honest: “Mm. I roughly understand the concept of pheromone guidance, but the teacher didn’t explain the steps to us, and the basic physiology textbook didn’t cover this either.”

    “Mm.”

    Perhaps because she was in her private domain, Zhu Yiqiao’s voice was tinged with laziness.

    She said, “I’ll teach you.”

    Ming Fei had a serious learning attitude: “Sorry to trouble you, Jiejie.”

    She asked, puzzled, “Then what should I do for the first step?”

    “Do you see that cabinet over there?”

    “Mm.”

    “Go get the white gloves.”

    Ming Fei replied, “Okay.”

    She moved quickly. After bringing the item Zhu Yiqiao had specified, she watched as Zhu Yiqiao put on the white gloves from the Trial Court. For some reason, a strange sense of danger arose in her heart, as if those gloved hands would strangle her neck in the next moment.

    Then, leaning down, revealing canine teeth, biting through her carotid artery, and finally slowly swallowing her whole.

    Ming Fei was amused by her own absurd imagination.

    She smiled, and Zhu Yiqiao, having put on the gloves, issued the next instruction.

    “Sit next to me.”

    “Okay.”

    After sitting down, because they were closer, the tension and sense of danger in Ming Fei’s heart intensified.

    She couldn’t explain why, her emotions all written on her face. When Zhu Yiqiao noticed that she was almost turning into the curled-up kitten emoji, a hint of confusion flickered in her eyes.

    “Are you scared?”

    Ming Fei shook her head seriously: “No.”

    Zhu Yiqiao, remembering what Ming Zaozao had said, asked: “Afraid of pain?”

    Ming Fei’s confidence wavered slightly: “No.”

    Hearing this, Zhu Yiqiao didn’t press further, explaining, “Tonight is just a checkup. Dr. Tang said your gland’s condition is special, and it needs to be checked every night recently.”

    “Jiejie, can I check it myself?”

    “Do you know how?”

    Of course, she knew how to simply look, but as for a proper checkup, that was another matter.

    Ming Fei didn’t speak, pulling her long hair forward and adjusting the detection function of her pheromone bracelet to the highest level before turning her head and removing the suppressor patch, allowing Zhu Yiqiao to examine her gland.

    “Is this okay?”

    “Mm.”

    Because she was facing the French window, Ming Fei could not only feel Zhu Yiqiao’s fingertips touching her, but also see her meticulous expression through the reflection in the window.

    When Zhu Yiqiao’s fingertips touched the edge of her gland, Ming Fei could still pretend to be calm. As they gradually moved upwards along the edge, Ming Fei’s eyelashes trembled. When they reached the scar in the center, Ming Fei’s sweet pheromones overflowed.

    The room was immediately filled with the scent of sweet pears.

    “…Sorry, Jiejie.”

    Zhu Yiqiao: “No need to apologize.”

    “Mm.”

    Ming Fei pursed her lips, feeling like a patient avoiding treatment. She had clearly wanted to write down “actively treat” in her diary every day this afternoon, but now, the checkup had just begun, and she was already softly asking,

    “Jiejie, are you done checking?”

    Zhu Yiqiao asked, “Does it hurt here?”

    Ming Fei sensed for a moment: “No.”

    “Here?”

    Ming Fei answered truthfully, “It’s a little itchy.”

    After asking two more similar questions, Zhu Yiqiao finally removed her fingertips from Ming Fei’s gland. She handed Ming Fei a prepared medical wipe, indicating for her to wipe the gland on the back of her neck.

    “Thank you, Jiejie.”

    Ming Fei quickly turned around and wiped, the tips of her ears noticeably red, even her long, loose hair couldn’t hide it.

    Her thoughts began to wander—

    Because if she continued to focus on her gland at this moment, having just undergone the examination, she would probably overheat.

    She stared at the corner of the garden under the night light, the hazy snow and the red Bingjiao roses complementing each other, like a bonfire suddenly lit in the snow.

    A unique and romantic beauty.

    Ming Fei decided to pick two bunches of roses tomorrow morning, trim them, and put them in a glass vase on her and Ming Zaozao’s desks.

    After carefully wiping her gland clean, Ming Fei turned around, about to politely express her thanks and leave, when she noticed that Zhu Yiqiao had suddenly become motionless.

    Although Zhu Yiqiao’s expression and aura hadn’t changed, Ming Fei felt something was wrong.

    She asked keenly, “Jiejie, are you feeling unwell?”

    Zhu Yiqiao changed the subject: “Tonight’s checkup is over.”

    The implication was that she could leave.

    But Ming Fei was a little worried. She moved closer to Zhu Yiqiao and asked directly,

    “What’s wrong, Jiejie?”

    Zhu Yiqiao: “Don’t want to leave?”

    Ming Fei shook her head and then nodded.

    As their eyes met, Ming Fei didn’t look away, maintaining eye contact with Zhu Yiqiao, letting her scrutinize her.

    After a minute-long standoff, Zhu Yiqiao softly revealed the reason for her discomfort.

    “My shoulder was injured by a gunshot. Even after treatment in the medical pod, there’s still some aftereffect. Sometimes it hurts when the weather is bad.”

    “You go back and rest first, I’ll be fine in a while.”

    Ming Fei didn’t leave. She was usually very obedient, but sometimes very persistent. She sat next to Zhu Yiqiao, her eyes filled with concern, her voice lacking the tension from the gland examination.

    “I’ve learned massage, Jiejie, do you mind if I take a look?”

    Zhu Yiqiao suddenly thought of Ming Zaozao.

    When they first lived together in Hui Fu Garden, Ming Zaozao had proudly said that her mommy could do anything and was the most amazing person in the world.

    After getting to know Ming Fei during this time, and learning that she was the intelligent and delicate Skwiatowy, Zhu Yiqiao had gained a new understanding of her.

    Therefore, she wasn’t surprised to hear that Ming Fei knew how to massage.

    She just asked, “Where did you learn it?”

    Ming Fei explained, “When I first joined the research institute, I worked with another professor to develop an elderly care robot, which is now widely used. When testing its massage function, I learned a little from the professional masseuse.”

    She smiled shyly, “Of course, I’m still far from a professional masseuse, but if Jiejie needs it, I will study harder.”

    Zhu Yiqiao: “Okay.”

    “Then I’ll go prepare a hot compress for Jiejie.”

    “Mm.”

    Ming Fei moved quickly. Guided by Zhu Yiqiao, she went into the bathroom, got a towel, and prepared the hot compress in about five minutes.

    Before proceeding to the next step, she asked,

    “Jiejie, do I need to wear gloves?”

    Zhu Yiqiao didn’t say whether she needed to or not: “Begin.”

    “Okay.”

    Ming Fei was extremely focused, her gaze never wavering. While massaging, it was as if she wasn’t touching Zhu Yiqiao’s shoulder, but the robot core components she usually worked with. She wasn’t distracted by anything else from beginning to end.

    There were no inappropriate or presumptuous thoughts, just occasional questions.

    “Jiejie, does it hurt here?”

    “Jiejie, is this pressure okay?”

    “Jiejie, how does it feel now?”

    …

    When asking such questions, her almond eyes were clear and bright, filled with unconcealed concern. Anyone meeting such a gaze would soften.

    Zhu Yiqiao’s expression remained unchanged, only answering her questions slowly and calmly. After the pain in her shoulder gradually subsided, the massage ended.

    Ming Fei, having completed her task, smiled.

    Before leaving, she repeatedly confirmed with Zhu Yiqiao whether it was effective and reminded her to cover herself with the blanket when sleeping to avoid catching a cold.

    Her serious expression was even a little cute.

    Zhu Yiqiao said calmly, “Mm, I know.”

    “Then I’ll go downstairs. Jiejie, if you feel uncomfortable, just send me a message.”

    At this moment, Ming Fei really resembled a canine, her eyes only on Zhu Yiqiao. If she had a fluffy tail, it would probably be wagging.

    She seriously assured her, “I’ll keep my communication open.”

    “Mm.”

    Ming Fei: “Goodnight, Jiejie.”

    “Goodnight.”

    The large master bedroom fell silent again. The display suddenly lit up, and Zhu Yiqiao checked her messages, finding one from Ming Fei, who had just left.

    [I want to pick some roses and put them in the study tomorrow. Jiejie, do you need any?]

    [[Kitten offering flowers.jpg]]

    Zhu Yiqiao lowered her head and replied. As she left the sofa area, her gaze swept over the cabinet on the right.

    —There, the intelligent massage therapy machine that Dr. Tang had brought her was placed. It was much better than Ming Fei’s treatment and much more effective.

    But strangely…

    She hadn’t mentioned it at all.

    And when Ming Fei tentatively offered, she didn’t immediately refuse.

  • Captivating Beauty 64p1

    Chapter 64 p1

    The ten-square-meter bathroom felt like a hot air balloon, the air thick with tension.

    Their reflections in the mirror were inches apart, their bodies close, yet not quite touching, Shen Shu’s back tingling with a strange mix of warmth and a frustrating emptiness, as if she were standing on tiptoe, reaching for something just beyond her grasp.

    Even though Xu Jinnan was holding her, she felt adrift, untethered.

    “Shu Shu?” Xu Jinnan whispered, her warm breath caressing Shen Shu’s ear.

    Shen Shu’s entire being felt enveloped in warmth, her voice trembling slightly. “What if it still hurts?”

    Xu Jinnan tilted her head back slightly, looking at Shen Shu’s reflection in the mirror, her cheek brushing against Shen Shu’s. “How about this?” she murmured, then gently kissed Shen Shu’s cheek.

    Her gaze remained fixed on the mirror as their lips touched, watching Shen Shu’s reaction, searching her eyes for a sign of acceptance or rejection, of pleasure or displeasure.

    Shen Shu’s breath hitched, her body trembling slightly under Xu Jinnan’s intense gaze, which felt like a scanner, penetrating her defenses, exposing her innermost thoughts and desires.

    She bit her lip, her teeth pressing against the soft flesh.

    “Mm…” she murmured softly.

    Xu Jinnan’s warm breath shifted to her ear, her lips brushing against the sensitive skin of her earlobe.

    “How about this?” she whispered.

    Shen Shu’s earlobe, small and delicate, looked incredibly tempting.

    But Xu Jinnan didn’t kiss it, simply touching it lightly with her lips.

    Even this fleeting contact was enough to make Shen Shu’s legs tremble, her composure shattering like a broken mirror.

    She steadied herself against the counter, her hand gripping the edge.

    Xu Jinnan should have stopped there. She knew she should stop.

    But the empty apartment, the close confines of the bathroom, the mingled scent of vanilla, honey, and milk…

    Her Alpha instincts, the primal urge to possess and dominate, were overwhelming.

    She leaned closer, pressing Shen Shu against the cool surface of the counter.

    “Why are you so quiet?” she murmured, her lips brushing against Shen Shu’s ear.

    Shen Shu’s heart pounded, the warmth of Xu Jinnan’s breath still lingering on her skin, the distance between them now a torment.

    Her throat felt dry, like she had tasted a sweet treat, only to have it snatched away, the lingering sweetness a constant reminder of what she craved.

    “What do you want me to say, Teacher Xu?” she asked, her voice slightly breathless.

    “Hmm…” Xu Jinnan, pleased that Shen Shu had spoken, and amused by the formal address, smiled faintly, looking at Shen Shu’s reflection in the mirror. “Anything.”

    Their voices were both husky, like parched flowers in a desert, desperate for water.

    Shen Shu didn’t seem to know what to say, but Xu Jinnan’s gaze, as she looked at her, was intense.

    She turned her head, her hand reaching out to gently caress Shen Shu’s cheek.

    “Shu Shu, your face is so warm,” she murmured.

    Shen Shu instinctively reached for Xu Jinnan’s hand, but before she could touch it—

    A knock came at the door.

    Xu Jinnan quickly withdrew her hand, listening. She heard voices outside.

    “I’ll go check,” she said.

    “Okay.”

    She looked through the peephole and saw a young woman with curly hair.

    “I’m your upstairs neighbor,” the woman said. “I’m so sorry, but I dropped some clothes on your balcony while I was hanging laundry. Could you get them for me?”

    Xu Jinnan went to the balcony and saw a few garments draped over the railing.

    She hesitated, then heard Shen Shu enter the living room.

    “I’ll get a plastic bag,” she said, turning to Shen Shu.

    She quickly returned with the bag and carefully placed the clothes inside, then opened the door slightly and handed it to the woman.

    “Thank you,” the woman said.

    “Be more careful next time,” Xu Jinnan replied, closing the door.

    She went to Shen Shu’s bedroom and saw her sitting on the bed, reading.

    “I’m going to take a shower,” she said, grabbing her pajamas.

    “Okay,” Shen Shu replied.

    Xu Jinnan went to the bathroom, closed the door, and stood there for a moment, looking at the counter, then at her reflection in the mirror.

    She undressed, then, standing in front of the mirror, her mind replaying their earlier encounter, touched her lips lightly.

    The memory was vivid, like a scene from a forbidden movie.

    She exhaled and stepped into the shower, closing the glass door behind her.

    She stood under the spray of hot water, letting it wash over her, then opened her mouth, catching a few drops before spitting them out.

    She stayed in the shower for almost an hour.

    Despite the long shower, she still couldn’t sleep, and neither could Shen Shu.

    —

    The next morning, they had planned to go to the riding stable at 1 p.m., but neither of them woke up early.

    Xu Jinnan made egg noodles and a small portion of sweet and sour pork ribs for a late breakfast/early lunch.

    The riding stable was outside the city, about a forty-minute drive from Xingcheng International.

    Xu Jinnan drove, and Shen Shu sat in the passenger seat, scrolling through messages on her phone.

    Tong Jia was discussing the CP super topic.

    Her conversation with Xia Chun’s agent hadn’t gone well. While Shen Shu’s repost and like had helped to quell the rumors, Xia Chun herself hadn’t done anything, leading to speculation among some netizens and fans.

    Some of the comments, especially from trolls, were particularly nasty.

    She was the one who started the rumors in the first place.

    Trying to use Xia Chun for clout, then pretending to clarify things when she got called out.

    So obvious. Poor Chun Chun.

    Xia Chun’s agency hasn’t even responded. It’s just the Qipao Miss flailing around…

    I used to like Shen Shu after Xia Chun praised her, but I didn’t expect her to be this kind of person.

    While Shen Shu herself wasn’t bothered by the comments, Tong Jia and the other studio staff were furious. Tong Jia had even gone to talk to Xia Chun’s agent that morning, but he had been evasive, all smiles and polite words, then had disappeared altogether.

    Not wanting to discuss it openly in the group chat, Tong Jia sent Shen Shu a private message.

    Tong Jia: [I’m so frustrated! I asked to speak to Xia Chun directly, and you know what her agent said? “If you want to talk to her, why don’t you go yourself?” Meaning he wants you to talk to Xia Chun about this!]

    Tong Jia: [I’m starting to think Xia Chun’s perfect image is just an act. Does she still have feelings for you? Ugh, I’m so angry!]

    Tong Jia: [I don’t understand what they’re trying to achieve. You’re filming together. If your reputation is damaged, it affects the entire production. How does that benefit Xia Chun?]

    Shen Shu read the messages, lost in thought.

    She remembered Xia Chun’s confession at the hospital, the one Xu Jinnan and Tong Jia had interrupted.

    After Xu Jinnan left, she had returned to Xia Chun’s room and made it clear they had no future together.

    Since then, to avoid any misunderstandings, and also because she genuinely wanted to move on, she had avoided interacting with Xia Chun outside of filming, even rejecting her request for a private conversation and avoiding her whenever possible.

    She sighed softly.

    Xu Jinnan, hearing her sigh, glanced over, noticing her troubled expression. “What’s wrong?”

    Shen Shu hesitated, then briefly explained the situation.

    The online comments, while unpleasant, weren’t as bad as before, and Xia Chun’s agency had no reason to cooperate with the rumors.

    So, Shen Shu wasn’t particularly upset.

    The car stopped at a red light.

    “Have you considered that Xia Chun’s agent might be relaying messages to her?” Xu Jinnan asked, her tone neutral, a subtle question hidden in her words.

    Shen Shu had, of course, considered it.

    She hesitated. “The Xia Chun I knew wouldn’t do this,” she said softly, her voice full of sincerity.

    She had met Xia Chun in college. She had been kind, gentle, and always smiling, just like now.

    But something had changed.

    Regardless of how their relationship had ended, she couldn’t believe Xia Chun would resort to such underhanded tactics to force a meeting.

    The light turned green.

    Xu Jinnan, her gaze fixed on the road ahead, simply said, “Oh.”

    She didn’t know what else to say.

    She didn’t understand their relationship; Shen Shu did.

    Her tone sounded magnanimous, almost indifferent, and Shen Shu glanced at her.

    The sunlight streaming through the window illuminated Xu Jinnan’s face, highlighting the soft downy hairs on her cheeks.

    Her profile was sharp and elegant, her expression cool and composed.

    “Xu Jinnan,” Shen Shu said, the slight upward inflection in her voice making it sound almost playful.

    “Yes?”

    “Are you jealous?”

    Xu Jinnan paused. “…Maybe a little,” she admitted.

    If Shen Shu had pressed her, she would have given a different answer.

    But Shen Shu didn’t ask any further questions, simply turning to look out the window.

    The glass reflected the curve of her lips, the subtle gloss making them look even more alluring.

    Outside, the leaves on the trees lining the road were starting to turn yellow, the colors of autumn a vibrant mix of life and decay, a season of change and renewal.

    —

     

  • Female Lead Was Coaxed Away by the Villain Again [Quick Transmigration] 120

    Chapter 120: My Guardian Spirit is Dead (6)

    The next morning, Jiang Zhiyan woke Xie Yunzhi up promptly at six. Xie Yunzhi, with a sullen expression and an unapproachable aura, left the room. A few people who had intended to provoke her, seeing her expression and the floating Jiang Zhiyan, immediately shut up and ran away.

    “What cowards,” Jiang Zhiyan said, speechless.

    Xie Yunzhi’s lips twitched.

    The lessons at the Xie family estate were even more sleep-inducing than her university classes. Xie Yunzhi felt like she was only staying awake through sheer willpower.

    And she really didn’t understand, the things being taught weren’t difficult, why couldn’t the others in the class understand? She felt like she would progress much faster with one-on-one lessons.

    This attitude further displeased the others, but there was nothing they could do. After a morning of classes, the Xie family instructor couldn’t help but look at Xie Yunzhi differently.

    “I’m still alive, but my spirit is dead,” Xie Yunzhi said.

    “Really? I think you’re quite lively,” Jiang Zhiyan said, circling Xie Yunzhi. “I’m going to see what the Xie family is having for lunch.”

    Xie Yunzhi: …

    “They’re eating quite well,” Jiang Zhiyan said, standing outside the kitchen. The System listed the dishes the Xie family had prepared, like a waiter reciting a menu.

    “Indeed, it sounds delicious, I’m getting hungry just listening to it,” Jiang Zhiyan said. Ever since eating barbecue that day, she couldn’t stand not having anything to eat.

    On her way back from the kitchen, Jiang Zhiyan ran into the Xie Family Head, and their eyes met.

    “I want to eat too, prepare a portion for me,” Jiang Zhiyan said.

    The Xie Family Head ignored her and tried to leave.

    Jiang Zhiyan followed him, emanating resentment, and he stopped after walking ten meters, practically gritting his teeth as he said: “I’ll have someone arrange it.”

    Jiang Zhiyan was satisfied.

    The System realized that Jiang Zhiyan was quite shameless.

    “Every meal,” Jiang Zhiyan added.

    The Xie Family Head’s face darkened, he didn’t want to speak, but he had to agree.

    During Xie Yunzhi’s lesson time, Jiang Zhiyan, using the same tactic, gained VIP treatment at the Xie family estate.

    If the Xie family members initially wanted Xie Yunzhi to stay longer, they now just wanted her to leave quickly, taking Jiang Zhiyan with her.

    Jiang Zhiyan demanded a high-quality jade bracelet as tribute. The Xie family tried to seal her inside it, but it didn’t work, and they were even beaten up. After that, they completely gave up.

    After a chaotic day, when Xie Yunzhi expressed her desire to leave early, the Xie family didn’t object and agreed immediately, perhaps because they were afraid of Jiang Zhiyan. They said they would send her scanned copies of the books later.

    So she booked a flight for early the next morning.

    “Thank you for your trouble,” Xie Yunzhi said.

    “No trouble at all, killing two birds with one stone,” Jiang Zhiyan paused. “The Xie family’s food is quite good.”

    “But I don’t want to come back here again, I’ll just reminisce in my dreams.”

    “But I can’t sleep.”

    Xie Yunzhi paused: “Oh, right. Did you take the Xie family’s jade bracelet?”

    “I did, it’s quite comfortable.”

    “Then keep it,” Xie Yunzhi said. She had been wondering whether to buy a new one for Jiang Zhiyan, but then she thought, why spend money when there’s a free one? She had to save money.

    As soon as she boarded the plane, Xie Yunzhi fell asleep, she was truly exhausted.

    However, as soon as she fell asleep, she realized she wasn’t truly asleep, her body was asleep, but her soul was wide awake.

    Buried memories resurfaced, and Xie Yunzhi’s expression twisted for a few seconds. She rubbed her temples, it seemed like she had done something bad, she had mocked other fragments before, as expected, they were all fragments of the same person, so their actions were similar.

    But Jiang Zhiyan was really strange! Constantly saying she liked her, if it weren’t for her subconscious telling her Jiang Zhiyan was a good person, she would have thought she was a pervert.

    The ascended Xie Liaoyi, seeing that almost everyone was present, started the meeting. Xie Yunzhi could feel a strong pull from her, she had clearly absorbed quite a few fragments, and she didn’t know if it was her imagination, but she felt that her divinity was more stable than during the last meeting, even though not much time had passed.

    “I devoured a world consciousness,” her first words were like a bombshell.

    “Huh?”

    Exclamations echoed.

    “It wasn’t intentional, it tried to trip me up, probably didn’t expect me to have ascended,” her tone remained calm. “There hasn’t been any reaction from the Main God yet, I don’t know if they haven’t noticed or if they’re not around.”

    After a few seconds of silence, another fragment spoke: “The Main God is also a god, is it possible for us to separate from the Main God system?”

    “It should be possible, after our accident, we were essentially disconnected from them, but if that’s the case, what about Zhiyan? Do we accompany her on missions until she retires?”

    “She should be able to leave, considering how often she destroys worlds, I think we can negotiate with the Main God and have them release her, and if we all ascend, but can’t take her with us, that would be too pathetic, we’ve already collected seventy percent of the fragments, and communication with most world consciousnesses is smooth, I can almost sense which small world Zhiyan is in.”

    Xie Yunzhi sat quietly and raised her hand: “Then can you come find me first?”

    “Is Zhiyan with you now?”

    “Mm,” Xie Yunzhi nodded.

    Xie Liaoyi Number One thought for two seconds, then shook her head: “I refuse, we’re working separately, there’s no need for both of us to be in the same world, and judging by your situation, you’ve caused trouble again.”

    Xie Yunzhi smiled: “I didn’t cause that much trouble, it’s fine, after we merge back into the main body, we’ll all share the consequences.”

    “That’s not an excuse for your recklessness, be careful.”

    “I don’t want to be reckless, but I can’t remember,” Xie Yunzhi sighed again, thinking about the things she had unconsciously said. “I only remember to save money and become a god, I chanted Jiang Zhiyan’s name so many times, why can’t I remember?”

    “Interference from the world consciousness is normal,” Xie Liaoyi Number One said. “Most world consciousnesses are relatively easy to communicate with, some try to keep our soul fragments, but it’s not a big problem, after I devoured a world consciousness, they’ve all become quite cooperative.”

    “Haha,” Xie Yunzhi gave a couple of dry laughs, she was relieved, but her own pressure hadn’t lessened at all.

    Thinking about meeting Jiang Zhiyan later, Xie Yunzhi couldn’t help but sigh deeply and pat her forehead, she hoped she wouldn’t say anything that would give Jiang Zhiyan leverage again.

    Her consciousness retreated, and she fell asleep, only waking up when the plane landed. She opened her eyes and saw Jiang Zhiyan’s face floating in front of her.

    Xie Yunzhi considered buying economy class in the future, Jiang Zhiyan probably wouldn’t float this close to her if she did.

    “You’re awake?” Jiang Zhiyan asked, looking at Xie Yunzhi expectantly.

    Xie Yunzhi nodded, looking at Jiang Zhiyan, she looked even more familiar now, but the more she tried to remember, the more elusive the memory became, and her head started to ache.

    She looked at Jiang Zhiyan a few more times, feeling irritated.

    “What’s wrong?”

    Xie Yunzhi shook her head: “I feel like I’m so close to remembering who you are.”

    “I’m your wife.”

    Xie Yunzhi felt like Jiang Zhiyan might be telling the truth, but it was too strange without any context.

    As soon as they left the airport, they were stopped by four large men in black. The middle-aged man leading them was wearing a Tang suit and holding a fan. He looked at Xie Yunzhi with a smile: “Miss Xie, please come with us.”

    “Who are you?” Xie Yunzhi asked warily, taking two steps back. “I don’t know you.”

    “My surname is Song, I just want to have a chat with Miss Xie,” he said, his smile seemingly kind, but his aura was oppressive, clearly putting on airs.

    “What does your surname being Song have to do with me? I still don’t know you,” Xie Yunzhi frowned, wanting to leave.

    “Miss Xie,” he said, reaching out to stop her.

    The next second, Xie Yunzhi turned and ran in the opposite direction. The men in black quickly gave chase, attracting the attention of passersby.

    “There’s a police station on the left,” Jiang Zhiyan reminded her.

    Xie Yunzhi immediately changed direction and ran towards the police station.

    If there’s a problem, find the police.

    She knew who these people were, but she didn’t want to go with them, it would be too troublesome, she just wanted to go home and sleep.

    Seeing the police, the men in black stopped, the two sides facing off, many people stopped and watched.

    The old man in the Tang suit from the Song family arrived after a while, seeing the situation, he felt a headache coming on, how did things become like this?

    He brought four men in black just to look more imposing, who knew Xie Yunzhi would be so straightforward, not even giving him a chance to explain properly.

    “It’s a misunderstanding, all a misunderstanding,” he said with a smile, raising his hand. “I just wanted to invite Miss Xie over for a chat.”

    “What misunderstanding? I don’t want to go, and you even sent these people to chase me, I don’t even know you! Blocking people at the airport, is that how you invite someone for a chat? You look like some new type of scammer!” Xie Yunzhi said, standing behind the police, agitated.

    After Song Zhili was taken to the police station, his father was also brought in for questioning.

    After returning home, Xie Yunzhi called her mother and then informed the Xie Family Head, and as Jiang Zhiyan predicted, the Xie family was very unhappy.

    “They won’t bother me anymore, will they?” Xie Yunzhi asked.

    “I’m not sure about the others, but Song Zhili will definitely continue to bother you,” Jiang Zhiyan said.

    “Huh?” Xie Yunzhi looked disgusted. “Why? Is he like a leech?”

    Jiang Zhiyan’s voice, floating in the air, was also ethereal, laced with sarcasm: “I did a divination, you two are a perfect match, destined to be entangled.”

    “I don’t believe in those things,” Xie Yunzhi waved her hand dismissively. “Besides, aren’t you going to be engaged to me? As my future wife, if he comes to harass me again, just send him back to the hospital.”

    “Future wife now, are we?”

    “Isn’t that good? I agree with what you said,” Xie Yunzhi looked up. “But I can’t kiss you, I can’t touch you…”

    “You can actually kiss me, but you’re too weak, wait until you’re stronger, I’m afraid you won’t be able to handle it.”

  • The Vicious Female Lead Doesn’t Want to Do It Anymore 82

    Chapter 82: More Please – Love and Stars

    The cameraman was very perceptive. When he arrived with his equipment, he deliberately didn’t film the intimate scene, only starting to record when their actions could be interpreted as those of close friends.

    After settling in, everyone started preparing dinner.

    The guests gathered in a room, enjoying a hot pot, a winter essential.

    This hot pot was different from the ones they were used to, it was called a “fire pot,” with firewood crackling underneath, the special iron pot steaming hot.

    The soup base was made with locally grown vegetables, dried wild mushrooms and herbs collected from the mountains, the flavor rich and savory.

    Dong Ling ladled a bowl of soup and drank it first, the warm and delicious broth flowing down her throat, warming her stomach, making her feel incredibly comfortable in the winter chill, she couldn’t help but give a thumbs-up.

    “The texture of these wild vegetables is so unique.”

    Dong Ling felt like she was eating fish roe-like vegetables, not in terms of taste, but texture, as if they would burst in her mouth.

    “Really? Let me try.”

    Tang Nuo also ladled a spoonful, and after eating it, nodded in agreement.

    “It’s truly special, you guys should try it.”

    Long Ji chewed thoughtfully and said: “I just asked the villagers, they said these wild vegetables grow between rocks, they originally have thorns, after being dried and boiled, the texture becomes very unique.”

    The guests expressed their amazement, Wen Tianzi also scooped some up, but immediately regretted it when she picked it up with her chopsticks, because there wasn’t much left, and she had taken the last piece, Song Jie hadn’t even tried it yet.

    “Xiao Tian, what’s wrong?”

    Ran Lin, sitting next to Wen Tianzi, noticed her hesitation.

    Wen Tianzi, seeing everyone looking at her, answered honestly: “Teacher Song hasn’t tried it yet, but there’s none left.”

    Tang Nuo and Ran Lin exchanged glances, their hearts screaming “Disaster!”

    They didn’t save any for the boss’s wife!

    Tang Nuo, who had eaten two pieces, cried inwardly, her awareness still not good enough.

    Seeing Wen Tianzi’s apologetic look, Dong Ling comforted her: “It’s okay, you can have it, I’ll share with her.”

    Song Mingzhi swallowed the words “I’m not eating” and held her bowl, waiting for Dong Ling to share with her.

    “This is your dipping sauce, it’s better to eat it plain, and I want something spicy, let’s switch.”

    Dong Ling wanted to switch bowls with Song Mingzhi, but Song Mingzhi remained unmoved.

    “You had a stomach ache just the other day, you can’t eat spicy food now.”

    “Just a little bit.”

    “No.”

    Dong Ling pouted and gave up, putting some of the food from her bowl into Song Mingzhi’s.

    The two Canghai Entertainment groups were used to this, Yun Jie smiled politely, Long Ji focused on eating silently, Wen Tianzi almost dropped her bowl.

    Help, seriously, help! So the domineering canary and the adorable CEO trope was real!

    The cameras were rolling! Could this really be broadcast?!

    The production team also wondered, could this really be broadcast? But this was their big boss, CEO Dong, what could they do? They could only let them be.

    After finishing the hot pot, everyone didn’t leave immediately, but continued sitting around the fire, enjoying the winter tranquility.

    This program didn’t have a script, and no one knew what they were supposed to do, so they just chatted casually.

    Yun Jie started the conversation, asking about interesting things that happened during filming, subtly promoting the movie “The Legend of Liang Jin’an,” which was scheduled for release during the Spring Festival.

    Everyone was relaxed, trying their best to be entertaining, after Dong Ling and Song Mingzhi shared some anecdotes, Ran Lin and Tang Nuo also shared their own experiences, Long Ji talked about the inspiration for one of her songs, and Yun Jie talked about an incident she encountered during an interview.

    The cheerful and peaceful atmosphere, mixed with the winter wind and the crackling fire, made everyone feel very comfortable.

    “Xiao Tian, have you encountered anything interesting lately?”

    Dong Ling looked at Wen Tianzi, who hadn’t spoken, thinking she might be feeling reserved because of her lower status and being from a different company, so she encouraged her to speak and get more screen time.

    Wen Tianzi was still inwardly screaming “I’m dead from the sweetness,” when she heard Dong Ling’s voice, she replied a little slowly: “I’ve been staying home, doing nothing, lately.”

    CEO Dong called her Xiao Tian and even specifically cued her, her wife was so beautiful and kind, wuwuwu, no, wait, someone else’s wife.

    Sigh, forget it, who didn’t like someone else’s wife? She was just like Cao Cao.

    My wife, come to me!

    “Being on this show is the most interesting thing that happened to me recently, I get to meet everyone.”

    Wen Tianzi cringed inwardly, she felt her answer was so lame, even after trying to salvage it, it was still awkward, she embarrassed herself in front of her idols.

    “Hahahaha, you’re so cute, I understand, I also stayed home doing nothing when I first started.”

    Tang Nuo pinched Wen Tianzi’s face, helping her dispel the awkwardness.

    Wen Tianzi was very grateful to Tang Nuo for speaking up. Yun Jie then naturally steered the conversation towards everyone’s early career struggles, lamenting the hardships of their younger days.

    Tang Nuo and Ran Lin started from small roles, compared to Tang Nuo being forced to accompany investors for drinks by her previous unscrupulous company, Ran Lin wandered around film studios for several years, even working as a stunt double.

    Yun Jie, when she first started as a reporter, was constantly ordered around by a celebrity’s assistant, and then stood up, she had encountered many strange things. Long Ji, before becoming famous, wrote songs in a damp basement, her knees still ached when it rained.

    Wen Tianzi worked as a trainee for several years without pay, her shining moment was during the talent show, but because of her personality and overlapping image with another member, she didn’t get any resources, and remained unpopular.

    When the topic turned to Song Mingzhi, Yun Jie’s high EQ was on full display, she smiled and asked why Song Mingzhi initially chose to enter this industry.

    After all, everyone knew that Song Mingzhi debuted with a famous director and a good project, Dong Ling had been spending money to promote her, she had endorsements and appearances, she didn’t even care about her long absence from the public eye, and upon her return, she was immediately cast as the female lead in a renowned director’s movie, how could someone like her have a difficult beginning?

    Normally, when faced with this question, people would talk about their passion or dreams or the desire to shine, but Song Mingzhi didn’t answer that way.

    “Partially because I was interested, but the main reason was because someone encouraged me and hoped I would pursue my interests, because of her support, I entered this field without hesitation.”

    As for who this “someone” was, was there a need to elaborate?

    Hearing this, everyone looked at Dong Ling and Song Mingzhi.

    They all thought Song Mingzhi wanted to act, so Dong Ling was promoting her, but it turned out that Dong Ling wanted to see Song Mingzhi act, so Song Mingzhi became an actress.

    Tang Nuo, shocked, pinched Ran Lin’s hand, was this them coming out?

    Yun Jie hesitated, should she block the door or not?

    Wen Tianzi was stunned, she couldn’t handle this level of sweetness, it was a level that ten shots of insulin couldn’t cure, where were the heart-saving pills?!

    Aaaaaaaaaa, what a beautiful love story, you entered the industry for me, I gave you the crown, who dared say this wasn’t real?!

    The only one who seemed out of sync was Long Ji, she said enviously: “You two have such a good relationship.”

    Long Ji didn’t realize the implications, she just thought Song Mingzhi and Dong Ling were very close friends, no wonder Song Mingzhi, despite being a successful businesswoman, would enter this unfamiliar field and become an actress.

    Dong Ling put her arm around Song Mingzhi’s shoulder and said cheerfully: “Of course we have a good relationship.”

    Song Mingzhi saying that made her feel a little embarrassed, it was actually because of the system’s task, but it wasn’t wrong to say that Song Mingzhi hoped for that, setting aside the system, she did want Song Mingzhi to shine in her destined field.

    Long Ji brought her guitar and, in this atmosphere, played an impromptu piece.

    She was truly talented, the music beautiful, a perfect ending to this cozy night.

    Everyone returned to their rooms, the cold wind outside making Dong Ling shiver, she put on the hood of her down jacket, looking like a little penguin, and huddled next to Song Mingzhi as they walked.

    The night sky was like a canvas sprinkled with stars, shining brightly.

    There were no clouds, everything clearly visible, the vastness boundless.

    Song Mingzhi went to her telescope, searching for familiar sights in the vast universe.

    Dong Ling waited obediently, stargazing was a very immersive activity, she wouldn’t disturb Song Mingzhi.

    Song Mingzhi wouldn’t look for too long, if it was going to take a while, she would definitely tell her first.

    Dong Ling looked down at her phone and found a weak signal, the internet was very slow, it took her a long time to load a message.

    But she wasn’t in a hurry to do anything else, so she patiently waited for the webpage to load.

    After a while, Song Mingzhi, holding the telescope, softly called Dong Ling.

    “Baby, come and take a look.”

    Dong Ling immediately put her phone in her pocket, stood where Song Mingzhi had just been, and looked through the telescope.

    The psychedelic red shape looked like…

    “Mingzhi! It looks like a flower!”

    Dong Ling was a little excited, she couldn’t look away, and the hand that wasn’t holding the telescope waved excitedly in the air, then was held by Song Mingzhi.

    “This is NGC 2244, in the Monoceros constellation, located within a molecular cloud complex, it’s called the Rosette Nebula, also known as the Rose Nebula.”

    “I don’t think I’ve ever given you flowers before, if I were to, I would want to give you this never-fading flower, even if we turn to dust, it will still exist.”

    “Do you remember the nebula we talked about before? The one we looked at together?”

    Dong Ling’s gaze had already left the cosmic rose, she nodded at Song Mingzhi’s gentle, clear voice.

    “I remember, the M27 nebula, you said it was the first planetary nebula observed by humans, also one of the brightest, red and blue, very dreamy.”

    Dong Ling’s eyes also seemed to hold stars, her long, loose hair as beautiful as the night sky.

    She kept the things Song Mingzhi shared with her in her heart.

    The beautiful journey of love was always a two-way street.

    “The maximum lifespan of M27 is 9800 years, but my love for you is far longer than that.”

    This long-planned confession, Song Mingzhi finally delivered the rose to her beloved’s eyes.

    Dong Ling cupped Song Mingzhi’s face, their lips meeting, intertwined and lingering.

    Dong Ling murmured: “Watching the stars with you, and watching you with the stars.”

    This was the love language Song Mingzhi spoke to her in her drunken state, and at this moment, Dong Ling felt there were no more fitting words to respond with.

    Under the vast sky, by the cliff’s edge, love and stars.

    Even if they eventually turned to cosmic dust, their romance would be eternal.

  • I’m Surrounded by My Own Pets! 210

    Chapter 210: Lian Xing, Transmigrated a Year Early?

    —Cloud Mist Sea, Border—

    A giant white deer in a cloud-like wedding dress galloped across the sky, her passage leaving trails of mist that thickened the fog of Cloud Mist Sea.

    Silver Dragon and the others had to take a Cold Moon Palace tourist airship back to Cloud Mist Sea.

    Lian Xing, however, was riding with Moonwalker back to the palace for… business.

    Perched on the giant deer’s back, Lian Xing felt a strange sense of unease.

    She suspected the very landscape of Cloud Mist Sea was a result of Moonwalker’s daily gallops and exhaust fumes.

    But, seriously, this speed was absurd…

    Even with Unbreakable Heaven’s Ring’s gene modification, Lian Xing couldn’t see the surroundings clearly, everything reduced to white streaks and blurs.

    This was a Guardian’s speed…

    Far beyond Mist Colt’s current capabilities.

    “By the way, Mother, do you see any new possibilities for Mist Colt’s Monarch-Tier evolution?”

    “She’s been stuck at Royal-Tier for too long. Though she’s met the requirements for some basic Monarch forms, they seem too… simple. I don’t want to settle…”

    The white deer in the wedding dress paused, then shook her head with amusement.

    Moonwalker recalled Lian Xing’s confident declaration.

    She had said that if she tried to freeload again, Moonwalker would shatter her bones.

    And now, knowing she couldn’t escape, she was shamelessly asking for help…

    “There are possibilities, of course. But isn’t it good to suppress her evolution?”

    “Let her experience more paths and possibilities. She might even surpass some of the lower-ranked Legends soon.”

    “Or you could defeat those Legends yourself, lowering their rankings.”

    “Of course, with her current rarity, she’s not quite Legend-level yet…”

    “…”

    “…”

    “Transcend… Legends…?” Lian Xing blinked in disbelief.

    Could Legends be replaced?

    Right…

    It was possible!

    Since the Eleventh Zodiac had vanished from the list of Legends, a new Pet Beast must have become the 72nd Legend.

    Lian Xing’s eyes widened in realization.

    Yes, Mist Colt’s rank evolution could wait. The priority was to increase her rarity, to make one of her abilities comparable to a Legend’s!

    Otherwise, even if a low-ranked Legend was removed, Mist Colt wouldn’t necessarily take its place.

    Having offered her advice, Moonwalker, according to their agreement, should now be shattering Lian Xing’s bones.

    But Lian Xing had clearly given up, adopting a carefree, almost invitingly submissive attitude.

    So, Moonwalker would fulfill their agreement upon returning to the palace.

    Lian Xing hadn’t considered capturing Little Moonwalker, not only because her three main combat slots were full, but also because of her… relationship with Moonwalker.

    If she were to capture one, it would be Moonwalker herself, right?

    As for Little Moonwalker, she could be their daughter…

    Moonwalker felt the same.

    She had initially intended to find a daughter-in-law, but she had ended up remarrying.

    Well, remarrying was fine. Little Moonwalker could be left to Lian Xing’s descendants, as long as the family tree didn’t get too messy…

    Under Lian Xing’s nervous yet slightly expectant gaze, Moonwalker suddenly bypassed her palace, continuing in another direction without slowing down.

    Lian Xing blinked in confusion.

    “Huh? Your Highness, aren’t we going back to the palace?”

    “…”

    “…”

    “Oh, sorry, I forgot to tell you.”

    “Remember that phone call I received?”

    “We detected countless unknown Emperor auras at the edge of Cloud Mist Sea.”

    “I suspect a Bubble Pet Beast World has been shattered, its inhabitants flooding in.”

    “Fortunately, none are Myriad-Level, and they haven’t left that area yet. We need to investigate immediately!!”

    “Cough, cough, cough—!!!” Lian Xing coughed, her face flushing crimson.

    Not only from the embarrassment of her dashed expectations, but also from a sudden, incredible thought.

    Just seconds before Moonwalker received the call, Snow Flower and Golden Leaf had automatically returned to her Pet Beast space.

    Lian Xing suspected the Divine Machine had forcibly shut down its server.

    Though it was a shame she couldn’t completely destroy Beast Taming Evolution Duel, this should at least annoy the Divine Machine.

    Now, hearing Moonwalker’s words, Lian Xing had a hunch.

    That Bubble Pet Beast World… probably…

    Uh…

    ***

    Cloud Mist Sea border, a hidden mountainous region.

    The Divine Machine had established Beast Taming Evolution Duel’s node here not only because Cloud Mist Sea was the largest territory in the Moon Soul World, but also because of the abundance of Bubble Pet Beast Worlds in this area.

    It was like Lian Xing’s starting newbie village.

    Once the time was right, after the tenth-anniversary event, the Divine Machine would send all players to a nearby Bubble Pet Beast World, letting them start their journey from a newbie village.

    However, something unexpected had occurred: someone had maliciously sent a Fallen Species into the game.

    This had forced the Divine Machine to prematurely shut down the server during the fourth-anniversary event, sending all registered players to Cloud Mist Sea in the Moon Soul World.

    As for Earth…

    It wasn’t a Bubble Pet Beast World subordinate to the Moon Soul World.

    It was a distant, abandoned world where Pet Essence had long since dissipated.

    There were many such abandoned worlds. Some, having lost their Pet Essence, had seen their human populations dwindle and die out due to infertility.

    But Earth had been fortunate. They had developed a potion that allowed young women to conceive through the exchange of… fluids.

    This was why the Divine Machine had chosen Earth’s humans as players.

    But…

    Now, the Divine Machine was losing control.

    “Where’s my Ancient Species!? Where did it go!?”

    “Why has my Shining Species regressed? Why are all the other Pet Beasts fine, but not my Shining Species!?”

    “My Legend is gone too…”

    “Thank god, at least I can still summon my Legend!!!”

    “Is this a dream? I was just taking a test… I quit this game six months ago!!”

    “Weren’t we just attacked by a Fallen Species? Is this a special fourth-anniversary event?”

    “Even for a special event, shouldn’t it wait until the tournament ends…?”

    Billions of Beast Taming Evolution Duel players gathered, discussing the situation in panicked whispers. Some summoned their Pet Beasts for testing, creating chaos.

    Those who could evolve Shining and Ancient Species were mostly hardcore gamers. More than the strangeness of the event, they were concerned about their Pet Beasts’ regression.

    Hidden among the players, the Divine Machine sighed.

    After a moment of silence, it transmitted a message to all players.

    [Players, listen carefully.]

    [I’ll only say this once.]

    [I am the administrator of Beast Taming Evolution Duel, and also the second-ranked Legend, Divine Machine.]

    [This isn’t a bug. Beast Taming Evolution Duel’s server has been invaded. Not a hacking incident, but someone in my world maliciously sent a Fallen Emperor into my server.]

    [This isn’t an event. Some of you were playing in non-VR mode, others were studying, shopping, watching movies, even… mating, when you were transported here. You’ll realize this if you talk to each other. Even gods couldn’t do this.]

    [Beast Taming Evolution Duel isn’t just a game. It’s a real world. I planned to reveal this on the tenth anniversary, gradually allowing you to summon your Pet Beasts in reality on Earth. But this attack forced my hand.]

    [For those who lost their Shining, Ancient, or Legend species, I’ll compensate you with other evolution data and a Black combat skill. Your evolutions were artificial, not meeting even 1% of the requirements for true special evolution paths. I forcibly triggered them.]

    [I won’t stop those who want to return to Earth. But if you stay, you’ll gain a thousand-year lifespan and real Pet Beasts, capable of flight, teleportation, moving mountains, and parting seas. You can even… experience the real thing with your Married Pet Beasts—]

    [If you want to visit your families on Earth, I’ll set up a portal and lift Earth’s Pet Beast restrictions, allowing others to join. But don’t cause trouble there. If you abuse your power, I’ll send enforcers to deal with you…]

    The Divine Machine had prepared this speech long ago.

    But it was now delivered six years early.

    Silence fell over the players.

    Seconds later, many looked excited.

    Though some were worried or skeptical, 80% of the players were ecstatic, especially the top Emperor-Tier Beast Tamers.

    They couldn’t wait to summon their Emperor Pet Beasts and show off their power to the natives.

    Since Beast Taming Evolution Duel had an 18+ mode, many players had treated it as an erotic game, their Pet Beasts as waifus, finding a second life within it.

    And now, they had actually transmigrated!

    A thousand-year lifespan, superpowers, and real Pet Beasts as companions—it was every fan’s ultimate dream!

    Suddenly, a player raised her hand.

    “Admin, what are those special markers on the virtual map?”

    [Oh right, I must warn you. Avoid those marked locations.]

    [The Four Great Calamities, four Fallen Emperors: Storm, Flood, Drought, and Volcano, marked by red arrows.]

    [The Shining Bipoles, two Shining Emperors, marked by golden spheres.]

    [The Six Guardians, high-ranking Legends, each controlling a territory, marked by blue raindrops. We are currently in the Third Guardian Moonwalker’s territory.]

    [The First Emperor, a Myriad-Level Ancient Species, marked by a white leaf. Its aura fluctuates, often disappearing from the map.]

    [These are the strongest beings in our world. You’re no match for them.]

    As the Divine Machine explained, many players studied the map.

    But the Divine Machine noticed their strange expressions.

    Before it could ask, a player spoke up.

    “Admin, what does it mean when all four colors—white, red, blue, and gold—converge at a single point?”

    [Impossible!]

    “Well, they are…”

    “And it seems… they’re about to overlap with our coordinates?”

    “Star Concubine, Lian Xing…? Hey, isn’t that the one with the twin buns?”

    “Wait, wasn’t Lian Xing dead?”

    As the players murmured, the Divine Machine realized something was wrong.

    But before it could check the map, a terrifying aura descended from the sky.

    “BOOM!!!!!”

    A shockwave erupted, the ground beneath them crushed into a giant deer hoof print.

    As the Divine Machine sensed the terrifying aura and the players watched, their faces pale, a deer woman in a white wedding dress, surrounded by swirling clouds, emerged from the crater.

    Behind her was a white-stockinged girl with golden Mickey Mouse buns and starry eyes.

    The moment they sensed the newcomer’s aura, the Emperor-Tier Pet Beasts within the Emperor-Tier Beast Tamers trembled in fear.

    The players, for the first time, understood the meaning of true power, their faces draining of color, their excitement vanishing.

    Unlike the cold, unfeeling data in the game…

    Facing an insurmountable, despair-inducing presence, they were truly terrified.

    This was…

    A hellish start!

  • Shion’s Notes 132

    Chapter 132: Signing Her, No Matter What

    Chen Xi had hoped Yu Linna would write a collection of short stories for easy publication. After all, as the winner of the New Talent Awards, she had the opportunity, and it would befit her status.

    However, Yu Linna had no intention of writing short stories, having already started another novel. This displeased Chen Xi.

    A novel rushed out in such a short time was unlikely to be of high quality, likely just a hasty effort. Chen Xi doubted Yu Linna could produce another good novel so quickly.

    But recalling her ability to write a complete novel in seven days and six nights, she decided to give her the benefit of the doubt. After all, she was the Gold Award winner.

    “Alright, let me see the manuscript.”

    Despite her words, Chen Xi remained skeptical. A novel was different from a short story, requiring more time and a more complex world.

    Yu Linna removed Chen Xi from her blacklist and sent her the manuscript for Zixuan and the Paper Airplane, which she had finished in the past few days.

    This novel was different from Ballad of the Enchantress, abandoning the grand world-building and complex relationships for a simple, heartwarming everyday story.

    Initially, Chen Xi doubted Yu Linna’s ability, but as she read, she realized she had underestimated her.

    The protagonist, Tang Yu, a man in his thirties, surprised her. Current trends favored young male protagonists with harems; older protagonists were rare.

    And then, the introduction of Tang Yu’s son, Tang Zixuan, surprised her even more. With a son, there likely wouldn’t be a romantic interest; the protagonist was already married. But then, with the death of his ex-wife, and Tang Yu left to care for his seven-year-old son, Chen Xi anticipated the introduction of a new female protagonist.

    However, there wasn’t one. The story focused on the developing relationship between Tang Yu and Zixuan, from initial awkwardness and resentment to gradual understanding and connection. When Zixuan expressed a desire for a new schoolbag, envious of his classmates, Tang Yu, the ultimate slacker, decided to take on manual labor, working long hours to earn money for his son.

    Chen Xi was hooked.

    Other characters appeared, like Zixuan’s wealthy classmates and Tang Yu’s old friends, but the core of the story remained the evolving bond between father and son.

    In the end, Zixuan got his new schoolbag, and Tang Yu, through his son’s smile, rediscovered the meaning of family, reflecting on his years of wasted potential and resolving to be a better father. He decided to find a stable job to support his family, and the story concluded.

    It was a heartwarming story about family, devoid of romance or drama, a simple, yet powerful narrative.

    Chen Xi hadn’t expected it to be so moving, so relatable.

    It made her think of her own parents, who had supported her through university, while she, after graduating, rarely visited them, always busy with work. She felt a pang of guilt. She should make more time for them; their hair must be even grayer now.

    “This is a wonderful story.”

    Having finished the manuscript, Chen Xi couldn’t help but praise it, the portrayal of family so beautifully rendered.

    She didn’t know that the depiction of family was actually Yu Linna’s own idealized vision, a longing for the family she had never had. The family she craved was brought to life through her words, a family like Tang Yu and Zixuan’s, imperfect yet finding connection and building a future together.

    Yu Linna, having no family, no relatives, yearned for that connection, that sense of belonging. This yearning became Zixuan and the Paper Airplane. The first gift Tang Zixuan received from his father was a handmade paper airplane, a simple gift that Yu Linna herself longed for.

    The paper airplane symbolized dreams, a gift of love and aspiration from a parent. Its flight symbolized the child growing up, venturing into the world, carrying the love and support of their family.

    “Shion-sensei, I’ve changed my mind. You’re truly a one-in-a-million talent. You’re exceptional.”

    Chen Xi believed that if she signed Yu Linna, her talent would shine, potentially becoming a pillar of Wenqing, a thorn in Qidian’s side. To produce two distinct, high-quality novels with unique personal styles in such a short time was a feat even Zhao Yuyan hadn’t accomplished. Back then, she had only one novel and a few short stories to her name.

    With proper guidance, Yu Linna could become an author even greater than Zhao Yuyan. Chen Xi was convinced of this.

    “So, what do you propose?”

    “We’ll sign you. Zixuan and the Paper Airplane is a wonderful story. I’ll discuss it with the team and see if we can make an exception and publish it. But Shion-sensei, if we do, you’ll be serializing two novels simultaneously. Can you handle it?”

    “As long as you give me the chance, I’ll do whatever it takes.”

    Yu Linna had endured so many failures; she wouldn’t let this opportunity slip away. No matter how difficult, it couldn’t be worse than going hungry.

    “Alright, as you wish. Starting today, I’m your editor. Submit all your manuscripts to me. Let’s sign the contract. You just turned eighteen, right?”

    Chen Xi presented the revised contract, offering Yu Linna a pen. Once signed, she would officially be a Wenqing author. Ye Zhiyun, observing silently, smiled faintly. Yu Linna deserved this.

    Picking up the pen, Yu Linna recalled the contract she had signed with Chenghe. This contract was different, far more equitable.

    She signed her name, “Yu Linna.”

    From this moment on, she was no longer just Yu Linna; she was Shion, a Wenqing author.

    She was finally making her debut.

    One day, her name would be known throughout the country, her existence acknowledged. One day, she would reach the pinnacle of success.

    She had once sought fame to escape poverty; now, she would strive for her dreams.

    She would keep moving forward, never stopping.

    Because she had found her purpose.

    Having signed Yu Linna, Chen Xi was elated. Though Yu Linna’s second novel had been unexpected, she wouldn’t let this opportunity pass. She had to sign her.

    She didn’t want a repeat of the Luo Nan incident.

    Back then, Luo Nan had submitted her first novel to Wenqing. Chen Xi had seen its potential, believing it would be a success, and wanted to sign her. The standard royalty rate for newcomers was 5%, but Luo Nan wasn’t satisfied, demanding 9%.

    She had also offered to write two novels simultaneously, demanding better terms and priority publishing, requesting the same treatment as Air.

    As a newcomer, her demands were considered arrogant. The entire editorial department disapproved, despite Chen Xi’s insistence on signing her, even with reduced terms. The other editors, deeming her too presumptuous, refused, even refusing to read her manuscript.

    Infuriated, Luo Nan took her work to Qidian, and within months, her novel was published, the initial print run of five thousand copies selling out on the first day, followed by a reprint of thirty thousand. Now, her second novel was in preparation, fulfilling her promise of serializing two novels simultaneously.

    Luo Nan was now Qidian’s treasure, a newcomer with the potential to become a literary giant. Wenqing regretted their decision; if they had signed her, things might have been different.

    But there were no ifs.

    Chen Xi didn’t want to repeat that mistake, so this time, no matter the demands, she would ensure Yu Linna stayed with Wenqing.

    “Shion-sensei, I’ll be going now. I’ll find an illustrator for your novel as soon as possible.”

    “Okay.”

    With Chen Xi’s departure, the apartment fell silent.

    Ye Zhiyun sat beside Yu Linna, their shoulders touching, a smile on her face.

    “Nana, congratulations.”

    “I’ve already heard that~”

    “I wanted to say it again. You’ve worked so hard. I’m so happy for you.”

    “I should thank you too, Zhiyun. Thank you for supporting me, helping me all this time. Without you, I would have been splattered on the train tracks.”

    It was true. If Ye Zhiyun hadn’t intervened, Yu Linna would have ended her life at the train station. She was eternally grateful to Ye Zhiyun, grateful for her help in leaving the entertainment industry, which had led her to find a new path, a new direction.

    She wasn’t cut out for the entertainment industry. Though she had a pretty face, she wasn’t meant to be in front of the camera.

    Her true stage was the literary world, a place where she could unleash her talent.

    She had proven her abilities with two novels, a talent she had kept hidden. Now, she would spread her wings and soar.

    And none of this would have been possible without Ye Zhiyun.

    “Zhiyun, thank you for taking me in, for giving me a home. I don’t know how to thank you. I’m so happy. I can finally do what I love. Zhiyun…”

    “Don’t say anything. Now, you need to celebrate your victory. Where should we go?”

    Holding hands, their hearts connected, the atmosphere warm and intimate.

  • Reincarnated as a Holy Nun, I Refuse to Lose! v2c31

    Volume 2: Witch Kingdom Arc

    Chapter 31: Golden Legend

    Luo Yuxi looked at the text on the panel, her previous caution thrown to the wind as the surrounding rubble sank into the ground.

    [Gluttony Witch x1]

    “…”

    Luo Yuxi looked at the little loli she had unearthed, unsure how to react. She tried to put her back, but seeing her large, innocent eyes staring at her curiously, she knew it wouldn’t work. Dorolo, sensing her predicament, asked,

    “Hello, do you have anything to eat…?”

    “Uh…”

    Luo Yuxi’s mind raced, although she maintained a calm facade.

    “She’s talking! She asked for food! Should I tell the truth? If I say no, will she eat me?”

    As Luo Yuxi panicked, the hat on Dorolo’s head gnashed its teeth, as if anticipating a meal.

    “Eat! Eat!! Eat the delicious one!!”

    “Big sister, you look familiar…”

    Dorolo tilted her head, as if trying to remember where she had seen Luo Yuxi before. But just as people sometimes forget what they ate yesterday, Dorolo couldn’t remember the things she had consumed.

    “I forgot, but you smell so good…”

    “Wh-What smells good…?”

    Luo Yuxi wanted to run, but remembering Dorolo’s tentacles, she froze. As she was thinking of a way out, a tentacle slithered up her arm.

    “!!!”

    “Mmm… such a familiar scent. When did I eat this before…?”

    The tentacle, like a tongue licking a lollipop, explored Luo Yuxi’s arm. Luo Yuxi, terrified, couldn’t move.

    “D-Don’t eat me…”

    Luo Yuxi looked at Dorolo, afraid she would lift her skirt and reveal the monstrous tentacles beneath, turning Luo Yuxi into nutrients.

    “I am a bit hungry…”

    “!!!”

    Dorolo, instead of eating Luo Yuxi, looked at the unconscious succubus. She walked over to her hat, picked it up, put it back on, and then approached the succubus. Luo Yuxi didn’t understand what she was planning.

    “That’s… Ruo Li’s familiar…”

    Dorolo lifted her skirt, and dozens of tentacles emerged. As Luo Yuxi watched in horror, the succubus, moaning in pleasure, was dragged into the darkness beneath the skirt.

    “Just magic, not tasty…”

    “Not tasty, not tasty!!”

    Dorolo stuck out her tongue, her hat echoing her sentiment. She turned to Luo Yuxi, and a single glance conveyed her intentions.

    “Can I have a bite~?”

    “!!!”

    [Divine Art: Holy Flame]
    [Divine Art: Heal]

    Luo Yuxi’s body burst into white flames, the soul-burning fire offering a sense of security.

    “Stay away from me!”

    “Hmm? Just one finger? Is that okay~?”

    Dorolo approached, her hat’s teeth glinting, tentacles emerging from her clothes, her cute loli facade gone. Luo Yuxi remembered enjoying Dorolo’s tentacle scenes in the game and mentally facepalmed.

    “No! Don’t come any closer! Help! Doris!!”

    [Unique Magic: Crushing Blow]

    BAM!!!

    A loud explosion echoed through the air. Ruo Li, who had almost fully transformed into her demonic form, was punched into a nearby mountain, the force of the blow creating a tunnel through it. A flash of white light, and Dorolo was sent flying, a long trail etched into the ground.

    “Stay… away… from… her…”

    Luo Yuxi looked at the girl standing before her, her glowing white hair, her blood-red eyes, the familiar furry ears on her head. She hesitantly called out,

    “Doris?”

    “Don’t look at me, Master…”

    “Wait, why are you—?”

    Doris charged at Dorolo again, her power preventing Dorolo from approaching. Luo Yuxi, usually wary of Doris, now felt a sense of safety from her presence.

    “What the heck, this feeling of security, I almost fell for it…”

    [Divine Art: Sensory Enhancement]

    Luo Yuxi cast a minor buff on Doris. She no longer cared about searching the ruins, finding another witch would be a disaster. Why didn’t they just crawl out themselves?

    “Doris! Stop fighting her! Use your speed and get me out of here!”

    Doris, as if hearing her plea, blasted Dorolo away. Ruo Li, having recovered, joined the fight. Even Doris, nearing First Order, couldn’t handle two Deadly Sins at once.

    “Traitors should be prepared to be eliminated…”

    “If you can eliminate me, then go ahead~”

    “You!”

    Ruo Li glared at Doris, who was now showing her beastly traits, then chuckled. Dorolo emerged from the smoke, unharmed by the previous attack.

    “I really dislike you and Greed the most…”

    Doris also found Dorolo troublesome. Her devouring ability, unlike Herolise’s absorption and release, permanently added the consumed power to her own, making her stronger with each bite.

    “I’m leaving, who can stop me~?”

    Doris grabbed Luo Yuxi and, in a flash of white light, tried to escape.

    “Where are you going, my Master~?”

    “Back to the Witch Capital, get Yun Keke and Yu Keke, we can’t stay in the Witch Kingdom anymore…”

    “As you wish~”

    Ruo Li tried to chase after them, but even at her top speed, she couldn’t catch up. Luo Yuxi, watching the scenery blur, finally relaxed. She was about to discuss her plan when everything froze.

    “Doris?”

    “…”

    Luo Yuxi called out, but Doris remained motionless, as if frozen in time. Luo Yuxi realized it wasn’t Doris who had stopped, but the world around them.

    “You seem to be looking for something, or someone? A nun from the Church…”

    Luo Yuxi felt a chill run down her spine as she heard the voice.

  • Reincarnated as a Holy Nun, I Refuse to Lose! v2c30

    Volume 2: Witch Kingdom Arc

    Chapter 30

    Luo Yuxi looked at the witch she had dug out from the rubble. The girl, with her black and white hair and modest chest rising and falling with each breath, remained unconscious, despite being buried under the debris.

    [Amelie]

    Occupation: Witch
    Affiliation: Witch Kingdom
    Skills: ???
    Title: Sloth Witch
    Affection: 60%
    Order Level: 2nd Order

    Luo Yuxi looked at the panel, then at the cute yet lewd girl in her arms, a hot potato she didn’t want to handle. After a moment of hesitation, she gently placed her back on the ground.

    “As long as she doesn’t wake up, there’s no danger. Gently… gently…”

    Luo Yuxi carefully covered Amelie with the rubble again, relieved.

    “Tsk, what bad luck, digging up a witch…”

    Luo Yuxi turned to leave, wanting to distance herself from the ruins, in case she unearthed something even more troublesome. But as she stood up, a hand reached out from the rubble and grabbed her ankle.

    “Oh my, how cruel, digging me up and then leaving me here~!”

    “Ah! It was Doris who destroyed the castle, go find her!”

    Luo Yuxi was startled, a cold sweat running down her back as she looked at the pale hand gripping her ankle. Amelie emerged from the rubble, like a vengeful ghost.

    “I was sleeping so soundly, and you destroyed my favorite bed~”

    Amelie stood up, her appearance a stark contrast to the pristine image Luo Yuxi had seen earlier. Her fair skin was covered in dust, her black and white hair a mess. Luo Yuxi’s fear subsided.

    “And my favorite pajamas…”

    Amelie looked at her torn clothes and started crying. Luo Yuxi felt a pang of guilt. If she hadn’t dug her up, she wouldn’t be in this state.

    “Sorry about that… I can buy you a new set…”

    Luo Yuxi scratched her head, feeling awkward. This Sloth Witch was completely different from the one in the game, a languid beauty with long, alluring legs.

    “You don’t understand! These pajamas are like family to me! I can only truly relax when I’m wearing them!”

    “Is it that serious?”

    Amelie looked at the ruins, then at the two figures fighting in the sky, and went to retrieve her pillow from the pile of salvaged items.

    “There it is…”

    To Luo Yuxi’s surprise, Amelie simply went to a nearby tree, placed her pillow down, and went back to sleep.

    “She doesn’t seem that dangerous…”

    Luo Yuxi, relieved that she wasn’t about to be stripped and “educated,” decided to continue her search. She was curious why Amelie hadn’t reacted to her “assets,” simply returning to her nap. Curiosity killed the cat, so Luo Yuxi continued her treasure hunt.

    [Pride’s self-portrait x1]
    [Pride’s self-portrait x1]
    [Pride’s self-portrait x1]
    …

    “This…”

    After unearthing dozens of self-portraits in various sizes and styles, Luo Yuxi felt mentally exhausted. Just like in the game, she’s so narcissistic.

    “All useless junk. Hopefully, this one isn’t another self-portrait…”

    Luo Yuxi reached into the rubble and felt something soft and fleshy wrap around her hand. It didn’t feel human.

    “What is this…?”

    Curious, she grabbed the fleshy appendage and pulled. It looked like a hat.

    [Gluttony’s hat x1]

    “!!!”

    Luo Yuxi instantly threw the hat away.

    “Good reflexes!”

    She looked at the sticky residue on her hand, realizing it wasn’t a vine, but the hat’s tongue. She shuddered, looking at the hat bouncing on the ground, its sharp teeth glinting in the light. If she had been a moment slower, she would have lost her hand.

    “I’ve died to that hat so many times in the game…”

    Luo Yuxi remembered the CG of the protagonist being swallowed by Dorolo’s tentacles and hat, a scene she had enjoyed, although it increased the protagonist’s lewdness stat and resulted in a “used” expression.

    “I can’t be swallowed…”

    Luo Yuxi reached into the rubble again. The panel that appeared made her freeze, despite her caution.

  • Miss Luo Yan’s Feet Are Buried With Corpses v3c12

    Witch’s Night: Chapter 12 …An Illegitimate Daughter?

    “This song is dedicated to the esteemed Chief Magistrate of the Lannister Council of Elders, Magistrate Norian. My mother asked me to send her regards.”

    Chris lifted the hem of her skirt and elegantly curtsied to Norian.

    It could be said that the reason she appeared at this banquet and offered her most precious healing song was entirely due to Norian’s considerable influence.

    The other nobles here were merely basking in Norian’s reflected glory. Without Norian, even if Chris accepted the invitation to attend the banquet, she would absolutely not have used her ability in this way.

    After all, Chris wasn’t just an ordinary idol; her background was more substantial than most of the nobles present. Being an idol was purely a personal hobby.

    “Please send my regards to Ms. Tina and the Lequista family as well,” Norian said with a smile. “May the friendship between Lannister and the Lequista family last forever.”

    The other nobles in the banquet hall also began their aristocratic greetings, and Chris responded to each one with a proper and elegant smile.

    On the other side, Luo Yan and Tina were still making small talk.

    “However, I’m more curious about how Miss Chris knows Sister Qingling,” Luo Yan asked. “Sister Qingling said that Miss Chris especially likes the clothes she designs, and that’s how they met, but I always felt something was strange.”

    “Is there such a thing?” Tina replied subconsciously.

    “Huh?”

    “Wait, what are you talking about?” Tina looked puzzled. “What clothes, what designs… Chris never told me about these things.”

    “Sister Qingling is a fashion designer.”

    “…Ah?” Tina paused for a moment before continuing, “Isn’t Hua Qingling… a ranger?”

    “She… sort of is?”

    For a moment, the two stared at each other, wide-eyed, not knowing what the other was talking about.

    “Chris always tells me about her ranger exploits, I’ve never heard of any designing or clothes…”

    Tina exhaled and said, “But I don’t know the specifics. She’s my daughter, not me.”

    “Oh, I see.”

    Luo Yan nodded thoughtfully. This matter really wasn’t that simple; Hua Qingling and Chris definitely had something going on.

    Meanwhile, Chris’s formal performance had ended, and many nobles quickly surrounded her, wanting to build a good relationship with the second daughter of the Lequista family from Noah.

    Unfortunately, Chris had no interest in them. After a hurried response, her eyes quickly searched the banquet hall.

    Soon, she saw Hua Qingling chatting with Norian, the two looking like they were having a pleasant conversation.

    “Sister Qingling!”

    Chris immediately lifted the hem of her skirt and ran over.

    Her cheerful call once again drew everyone’s attention to Hua Qingling. They quickly recognized her as the young woman Norian had excused himself from the other nobles to meet earlier.

    Hua Qingling was happily chatting with Norian about the details of the “Norian Reform” when she heard a familiar call from beside her. Turning her head, she saw Chris running towards her, completely disregarding her image.

    “Oh, you know each other?”

    Norian was a little surprised, because he knew Hua Qingling’s background, which was why he was surprised.

    “Mm-hmm, hello Uncle Norian,” Chris didn’t have to address him as “Magistrate” in private and could be more natural. “Sister Qingling, what are you talking about? And…”

    She looked around vigilantly, but didn’t see the strange black-haired young man again.

    At this moment, Chris looked just like a small, alert bird, making Norian chuckle.

    “Since you’re old friends, I, an old man, won’t disturb your rare reunion, little girls.”

    Norian said cheerfully, then looked at Hua Qingling. “Qingling, I’ve taken note of your questions. I’ll explain them to you in detail when I have the opportunity next time.”

    “Thank you, Magistrate Norian. Please take your time.”

    Hua Qingling didn’t press the matter and nodded.

    After Norian finished speaking, he hurriedly left. The banquet would continue for a while longer, and he still wanted to chat with a few more of Lannister’s outstanding young talents.

    “Did… I interrupt your conversation with Uncle Norian?”

    Looking at Norian’s back, Chris shrank her head. She just wanted to find Sister Qingling, but she didn’t expect Sister Qingling to be busy…

    “It’s alright. Since I’ve already met with Magistrate Norian, this opportunity isn’t so important.” A proper smile appeared on Hua Qingling’s face. “Moreover, accompanying Miss Chris is just as important as talking with Magistrate Norian.”

    “Eh, really? Hehe…”

    Chris smiled, looking like a silly deer.

    However, every time Hua Qingling saw Chris, she always liked to smile like this, so she was used to it.

    But the nobles who occasionally glanced over were all shocked. In an instant, more gazes focused on Hua Qingling, secretly speculating about the identity of this petite woman.

    Hua Qingling: “…”

    Why did she feel a chill again?

    “By the way, where is the gentleman beside Sister Qingling?” Chris’s small face tightened as she looked around. “Did he leave?”

    “She… ah, he left temporarily, yes.”

    A fleeting panic flashed across Hua Qingling’s face; she almost let it slip.

    But it was almost the same… Miss Luo Yan didn’t seem to have any intention of concealing her identity from the beginning.

    “Phew, Sister Qingling, what’s your relationship with him? You seem quite close.”

    Chris sniffed, discerning a scent on Hua Qingling that didn’t belong to her.

    But… it seemed quite fragrant?

    A faint, refreshing fragrance.

    Damn it, weren’t men all smelly?

    “We’re very good friends,” Hua Qingling replied. “What’s wrong, Miss Chris?”

    “No-, Nothing… just curious.”

    Chris immediately put away her expression, slightly turning her face to hide the blush that appeared.

    “There’s nothing to be curious about. Mainly, his situation is rather complicated, it’s not convenient to say more.” Hua Qingling said with a chuckle. “If you have the opportunity to meet him, you’ll also find him very pleasant to be around. He always gives people around him a sense of security.”

    “Humph… no way.”

    Chris pouted in displeasure. The more Hua Qingling praised that young man, the more annoyed she felt.

    Moreover, these gloves of hers had held his hand… She had to remember to throw them away when she got back!

    No, she had to burn them in the furnace until they were completely gone!

    Chris thought fiercely, a look of resentment appearing on her face, making Hua Qingling a little confused.

    “Did… he offend you?”

    After several times, even if Hua Qingling were foolish, she could see that Chris disliked Luo Yan very much.

    Hua Qingling thought that Miss Luo Yan didn’t seem to have appeared in that form before, let alone the fact that Miss Luo Yan didn’t know Chris at all before this. How could they have such ill fate?

    —The ill fate stemmed from Hua Qingling.

    “Um… Sister Qingling, let’s not talk about this anymore,” Chris also realized that her hostility was a bit too obvious and quickly changed the subject. “When will Sister Qingling have time to make me some more clothes? I want to wear new clothes again!”

    “…I just made ten sets for you three months ago, right? Are you tired of them already?”

    Hua Qingling was a little troubled. At that time, she had been extremely short of money, even more so than usual, so she had forced herself to find time to take Chris’s order.

    Even for her, designing ten sets of clothes in different styles was quite exhausting, and it took her half a month to complete Chris’s order.

    Although the reward afterwards was quite generous, and the meal Chris treated her to at the high-end restaurant was so expensive that she still trembled slightly when she thought about it.

    Well, thinking about it carefully, it wasn’t bad, and her current financial situation wasn’t much better than it was back then…

    “No, no, I’m not tired of them,” Chris opened her arms and patted her Lolita dress. “Look, I’m still wearing them. I just want to wear more clothes designed by Sister Qingling, so… another hundred sets!”

    “…How about five sets?”

    “More, Sister Qingling, I have money!” Chris patted her slightly puffed-out chest, although her money wasn’t kept there. “Not to mention the Lequista family, I myself am very rich!”

    As a top idol, the second daughter of a super prominent family, and with the special healing effect of her mental singing, Chris’s appearance fees were high enough to make Hua Qingling faint at least ten times.

    But even so, getting Chris to appear was a rare opportunity, requiring considerable influence.

    So… Miss Chris, rich woman, food, hungry.jpg

    “I know,” although Hua Qingling was inwardly groaning, her expression management was impeccable. She just said indifferently, “But I don’t have time.”

    She had only heard of asking clients for more orders, not clients begging to place more orders…

    Moreover, Hua Qingling wasn’t rich; she was desperately short of money.

    Traveling the world sounded carefree, but food, clothing, shelter, and transportation all cost money; it was a bottomless pit.

    Not to mention that Hua Qingling was unlucky and had never not been short of money.

    However…

    Earning money was one thing, but Hua Qingling had a mission more important than earning money.

    “Five sets, no more, Miss Chris.” Hua Qingling’s heart was bleeding, crying for the money to come back, but she said calmly, “I have other things to do, please forgive me for being unable to help.”

    “Okay, five sets is five sets,” Chris didn’t mind, anyway, she was just looking for an excuse to give Hua Qingling more money.

    “After that, let’s do the same as before and find a place to eat, shall we? I remember there’s a very good thousand-year-old restaurant in the Lannister core district…”

    “As Miss Chris wishes.”

    Hua Qingling nodded reservedly, thinking how expensive it would be to eat at a thousand-year-old restaurant…

    However, Hua Qingling was already used to it.

    At first, out of politeness, she had wanted to refuse Chris, but Chris insisted, so she had no choice but to agree.

    It had become a custom by now.

    After settling this matter, Chris looked very happy.

    However, unfortunately, she was, after all, invited to attend this noble banquet, and didn’t have much personal time.

    Before they could chat for long, Chris’s butler hurried over and dragged her away.

    Before leaving, the butler apologized to Hua Qingling. Chris still had to continue socializing. She represented the Lequista family’s image in public and absolutely couldn’t leave the impression of being arrogant and disrespectful to other nobles.

    Hua Qingling watched the butler and Chris leave, sighing that it was good to be rich, and then turned to see a group of nobles staring at her intently.

    “Esteemed Miss Hua Qingling, the Monte family sends their regards to you and your family. May the friendship between the Noah Holy Church and Lannister last forever.”

    “…The Easton family…”

    “…The Rockla family…”

    Similar greetings echoed one after another. Although these nobles still maintained their aristocratic elegance and weren’t as noisy as a marketplace, it wasn’t much different.

    “…What’s going on?”

    But Hua Qingling listened with a bewildered expression. Apart from the names, the more she listened, the stranger it became.

    She did have a family, but they had parted ways long ago.

    And for the so-called prominent families of Yan City to come to Lannister… whether their noble status would be recognized or not, they would probably only be considered slightly well-off families here, not prominent enough to be called a “family.”

    Let alone the Noah Holy Church mentioned later. Please, she hadn’t even been to Noah.

    She wanted to go, but because it was too far, Hua Qingling didn’t have enough travel expenses…

    However, Hua Qingling was completely unaware that, because of everything that had just happened, she had been given an identity that almost had nothing to do with her.

    —The rumored illegitimate daughter of a certain Bishop in the Noah Holy Church.

    This was a conclusion drawn from speculation and deductions based on Norian inexplicably designating Restricted Zone Seven and implementing the strictest management some time ago, along with some internal information revealing that it was to receive a mysterious girl.

    This identity speculation, originally belonging to Luo Yan, had now, due to various coincidences, fallen upon Hua Qingling.

    …Although it was a coincidence, it was ultimately Luo Yan who had implicated her, without either of them knowing.

    “Sorry, I don’t know what you’re talking about. I think you must have mistaken me for someone else…”

    Hua Qingling could only reply truthfully, but unexpectedly, these nobles all showed an “I understand” expression, then repeatedly said that they had indeed mistaken her, but the greetings still continued from time to time.

    Because the rumor was about an illegitimate daughter, an illegitimate daughter… These nobles understood very well; such a person couldn’t be publicly acknowledged.

    But judging from Magistrate Norian and Miss Chris’s attitudes, this “illegitimate daughter” was definitely not simple, and it was always right to build a good relationship.

    Thus, Hua Qingling could only continue to deal with these nobles with a bewildered expression, until Norian suddenly appeared in front of her and said with a serious expression,

    “Something’s happened, Miss Hua Qingling.”

  • Qin Auntie, Save Me [Rebirth] 74p2

    Chapter 74 p2

    Qin Qianrou soon appeared, and before Li Wan could even speak, Shen Yiqiu embraced her tightly.

    Without hesitation or reservation, like lovers reunited after a long separation, if not for the surrounding crowd, Shen Yiqiu would have kissed her immediately.

    “Ahem, how long are you two planning to hug? Didn’t you just see each other last week? Why are you acting like it’s been years?”

    If they were talking about time apart, she and Qin Qianrou had been separated for even longer, what was Shen Yiqiu so excited about?

    Qin Qianrou gently patted Shen Yiqiu’s arm, then glared at Li Wan playfully.

    “As if I didn’t say anything, I shouldn’t have come, just being a third wheel here.”

    Li Wan raised her hands in mock surrender and headed towards the parking lot. She hadn’t noticed it before, but seeing their public display of affection now made her feel strangely envious.

    She had barely seen Lin Shuangzhi this week. Even when they did meet, it was just a hurried exchange of words, or to sign documents. Li Wan hadn’t even had a chance to ask her about the restructuring; it was said the list had already been submitted and was awaiting approval.

    Qin Qianrou’s return this week, besides seeing Shen Yiqiu, was also because of this matter.

    In the car on the way home, Shen Yiqiu and Qin Qianrou sat side by side in the back seat. Although they weren’t embracing, their intertwined fingers still made Li Wan feel a pang of… something.

    She hadn’t expected Qianrou to be like this in a relationship.

    She sighed softly, wondering what Lin Shuangzhi would be like in a relationship, probably still a robot.

    They had already… done it, yet all Lin Shuangzhi had said afterwards was “I’m sorry,” then “Are you okay?” “Does it still hurt?” It was infuriating! Couldn’t she say anything else besides those three words?!

    She had been so direct during the kiss, yet so awkward and clumsy afterwards. Li Wan wanted to buy a new 3D-printed brain for Lin Shuangzhi.

    “Qianrou, how long is your leave this time?”

    “Three days.”

    “You should go back to the station, there have been major changes recently, everyone is on edge.”

    Qin Qianrou had explained the situation to the training program leaders, and they had been understanding, after all, although training was important, their regular work was even more so. And Meng City Television, being a major local station, its restructuring served as an example for other stations, so they had readily approved Qin Qianrou’s leave request.

    Shen Yiqiu was naturally delighted; this meant three more days with Jiejie.

    “I didn’t expect it to happen so quickly.” Qin Qianrou had rarely interacted with Director Yu, but he wasn’t suitable for managing news programs.

    “There must be someone pulling strings behind the scenes.”

    “What did the team leader say?”

    Hearing Lin Shuangzhi mentioned, Li Wan almost slammed on the brakes.

    “She’s been incredibly busy, running around like a headless chicken, even went to the city government twice, but the outcome wasn’t ideal.”

    “So Director Yu’s promotion is being pushed by the city government?”

    Li Wan shook her head. “I asked my father, he didn’t say it directly, but I don’t think the city government would interfere in such specific personnel matters, they’re just fully supporting the restructuring. Director Yu’s promotion is mainly due to Deputy Director Ding.”

    The station director position was still vacant, and many speculated that Deputy Director Ding was the most likely candidate.

    Li Wan parked the car and handed the keys to Qin Qianrou. “I won’t be going up, you two rest early.”

    “Message me when you get home.”

    Back at their apartment, before Qin Qianrou could even turn around, she was enveloped in a familiar, longed-for embrace.

    Shen Yiqiu, just like at the airport, hugged her tightly, as if wanting to merge into one.

    “I missed you so much.”

    The soft, sweet voice by her ear melted Qin Qianrou’s heart.

    It was cold outside, but the apartment was warm, and Shen Yiqiu’s embrace even warmer.

    “I missed you too.”

    Shen Yiqiu gently caressed Qin Qianrou’s face, her touch lingering.

    Her gaze then fell on those alluring lips, making Qin Qianrou instinctively look away.

    She was wearing a nude lipstick today, not very noticeable at first glance, but upon closer inspection, still subtly seductive.

    “Jiejie, you’re so beautiful, I can’t resist.”

    As soon as she finished speaking, Shen Yiqiu leaned in and kissed her.

    Qin Qianrou closed her eyes as she felt Shen Yiqiu’s lips on hers. They had a certain unspoken understanding now, easily sensing each other’s intentions.

    With kisses like this, they were so familiar with each other that they could anticipate each other’s every move.

    Lovers in the throes of passion couldn’t bear even three minutes apart, let alone a week. Having gained a girlfriend in Hai City, Shen Yiqiu had been waking up with a smile every morning, only to feel a pang of disappointment upon finding the apartment empty.

    Now, it was different. The apartment, filled with Qin Qianrou’s presence, her warmth, felt alive again.

    The kiss ended, and Qin Qianrou gently pushed Shen Yiqiu away, her hand resting on her shoulder. Slightly breathless, her cheeks flushed, she hadn’t even taken off her coat yet, her suitcase still by her feet.

    “I’m so warm.” Qin Qianrou pushed her away again and took off her coat.

    Shen Yiqiu naturally took it from her, hung it on the coat rack by the door, then took off her own coat and hung it beside Qin Qianrou’s. Then, after changing into her slippers, she took out another pair that had been placed by the door, squatted down before Qin Qianrou, and said,

    “Jiejie, let me help you with your shoes.”

    Qin Qianrou was used to wearing high heels, and after a long flight, her feet were probably tired, but Shen Yiqiu’s gesture made her feel a little embarrassed.

    “I can do it myself.”

    Shen Yiqiu, seeing her shyness, didn’t insist. She smiled, stood up, and supported Qin Qianrou as she changed her shoes.

    Qin Qianrou wasn’t actually that tired, but she still graciously accepted Shen Yiqiu’s help, placing her hand on her arm.

    “Are you hungry? Should I make you a late-night snack?”

    “I’m not hungry, I ate on the plane.”

    “Then how about a shower first?”

    Knowing she was tired from traveling, Shen Yiqiu, apart from the initial passionate kiss upon her arrival, hadn’t been overly clingy.

    Qin Qianrou soaked in the bathtub, the warm water soothing her tense and tired muscles. She had returned to Hai City twice this week, once for the meeting with the Cheng family, and then again on a weeknight, when only her grandfather and Wen Yirong had been home.

    Her grandfather’s health had indeed deteriorated, his voice weaker, but he was still as stubborn as ever, expressing his displeasure over her refusal to date Cheng Yan, though he hadn’t forced the issue.

    Wen Yirong had reassured her that her grandfather was just being difficult, he no longer had the energy to interfere too much. She hoped they could keep him happy for now, conceal things from him for as long as possible.

    Qin Qianrou, seeing her mother’s hesitant and meaningful expression, wondered if she suspected something, but since Wen Yirong didn’t say anything directly, she couldn’t ask.

    The Cheng father and son had left a decent impression, they hadn’t made any unreasonable requests, and they had maintained a respectful distance. Qin Qianrou, however, ever since hearing about Shen Yiqiu’s dream, had become more observant.

    Whenever she saw someone wearing a tie, she couldn’t help but look twice.

    Both the Cheng father and son had been wearing ties that day, but they were both in dark colors, not the bright yellow Shen Yiqiu had seen in her dream.

    She hadn’t wanted to introduce Shen Yiqiu to her family so soon, her sweet and gentle little friend was so soft and innocent, what if they scared her?

    Wen Yirong was the easiest person to get along with in the Qin family, and Shen Yiqiu had still been so nervous meeting her. If she met her father and grandfather, her little face would probably crumple in fear.

    Qin Qianrou imagined Shen Yiqiu’s expression and couldn’t help but smile.

    A knock on the bathroom door, and Shen Yiqiu’s voice came from outside. “Jiejie, are you almost done?”

    Qin Qianrou had been in there for a while, and Shen Yiqiu was worried, afraid she might have fallen asleep and caught a cold.

    “Almost.”

    Qin Qianrou emerged from the bathroom, toweling her hair dry, and saw Shen Yiqiu still busy with something.

    “It’s so late, what are you still doing?”

    “Rong Fei gave me this a while ago, she said it helps with sleep.”

    Shen Yiqiu was fiddling with a bottle of essential oil, seemingly using it for the first time.

    “You haven’t used it before?”

    Shen Yiqiu placed the diffuser on the nightstand, then walked over and took the hairdryer from Qin Qianrou.

    “There’s no point in using it if you’re not home.”

    Her casual tone, as if stating an obvious fact, made Qin Qianrou pause for a moment before understanding the implication, her cheeks flushing slightly.

    “I’ll do it myself, you go take a shower.”

    “I want to dry your hair for you. I’ve already showered.”

    She’s quite efficient. Qin Qianrou suddenly remembered, how were they going to sleep tonight?

    This wasn’t a hotel room, they had two bedrooms, two beds.

    Before she could figure it out, Shen Yiqiu’s fingers were gently running through her hair, her touch tender and loving, making it impossible for Qin Qianrou to resist.

    It’s fine to sleep together, we can chat before bed, and besides, it’s not like we haven’t slept together before.

    Thinking this, Qin Qianrou quickly rationalized it.

    “Jiejie…”

    “Shen Yiqiu…”

    They spoke simultaneously, then stopped, looking at each other, then they both chuckled.

    Qin Qianrou spoke first, “What did you want to say?”

    Shen Yiqiu blushed slightly, lowering her voice, “Jiejie, can you give me a special nickname?”

    “Hmm?”

    “Every time you call my name, it reminds me of being called out by the professor.”

    Qin Qianrou thought for a moment. “How about Xiao Qiu?”

    Shen Yiqiu quickly shook her head. “No, that’s what elders call me.”

    Qin Qianrou, seeing her displeasure, thought for a moment longer.

    This time, feeling a little shy herself, she softly said, “Qiu.”

    A single word, spoken in such a gentle and affectionate tone, it made Shen Yiqiu’s heart melt.

    Her heart raced, no one had ever called her “Qiu” like that before.

    She put down the hairdryer and gently placed her hand on Qin Qianrou’s shoulder. Jiejie was slender, but not thin, her figure enviable.

    The soft silk of her pajamas felt luxurious against Shen Yiqiu’s skin, the warmth of Qin Qianrou’s body radiating through the fabric.

    Shen Yiqiu kissed Qin Qianrou’s earlobe, whispering softly, “I love it when you call me that, from now on, only you can call me that.”