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  • The Delicate Female Lead Only Wants to be Loved by the Villainous Young Ladies 310

    Chapter 310: A New Power

    A cat’s learning ability was truly not to be underestimated. Although Adele didn’t think this was a change Headmistress Winona would approve of. However, Seraph seemed to understand the hint in Adele’s eyes, and said in her usual flat tone, “Yes, I am Adele’s…childhood friend.”

    Hearing Seraph’s cooperation, Adele finally breathed a sigh of relief. Fortunately, angels weren’t inflexible. At least she would cooperate with her lies.

    “Then…what are you…doing here looking for Adele?” First Snow then suppressed her wavering emotions, clutching Adele’s skirt and asking cautiously.

    This was also what Adele wanted to know. Although Seraph was elusive, this was the first time she had actively sought her out and even forgotten to consider First Snow’s presence.

    “Doing what?” Seraph murmured, a rare look of hesitation appearing on the angel’s face. It seemed that during her time with Adele, she had made considerable progress, at least learning what to say and what not to say in front of others. Therefore, after a moment of thought, she responded in a cold voice, “I want to talk to Adele alone.”

    Adele pointed to herself in surprise. First Snow glanced at Sister Adele with pleading eyes. At this moment, it was Adele’s turn to make a decision. Whether to continue refreshing First Snow’s affection meter, or turn to Seraph’s embrace. Wait, that wasn’t the right way to put it!

    But Seraph’s meaning was clear; the person she was waiting for and eager to find was Adele. First Snow’s presence beside the girl was entirely an improbable accident. And the content she wanted to tell Adele was probably not something First Snow at this stage could hear.

    After a moment of consideration, Adele decided to trust Seraph. She thought that the always-serious angel wouldn’t seek her out for something trivial. If it wasn’t a small matter, then it was a big matter related to herself. Therefore, she suddenly took First Snow’s hand and walked with her towards the dorm door.

    Under the moonlight, Adele apologized profusely to First Snow, whose cute, soft ears drooped. Fortunately, First Snow wasn’t the kind of girl who selfishly prioritized her own feelings. She cared more about Adele’s feelings and thoughts. Although undeniably curious about the relationship and intimacy between Sister Adele and the girl who claimed to be her childhood friend, since Sister Adele had said so…

    “I-I’m fine, meow, Sister Adele.”

    “And it’s really late today, I think…”

    First Snow’s eyes flickered, clearly wavering. But in the end, the girl bit her small fangs, firming her resolve to prioritize Sister Adele’s feelings.

    “If I don’t go back, Xiao Wei might worry, meow!”

    “So…goodbye, Sister Adele!”

    Adele’s expression softened. She reached out and gently stroked the soft ears on top of First Snow’s head, continuing until they perked up naturally, no longer drooping sadly. Only then, in a silent, intimate atmosphere, did she kiss First Snow goodbye under the moonlight.

    The little cat-girl’s lips were as sweet as ever. First Snow was a little shy, but she noticed Seraph’s gaze from the half-open door of the room. Therefore, the joy in her heart surpassed her shyness, causing her to immerse herself in the kiss more deeply.

    Seeing First Snow’s slight greediness, Adele didn’t refuse but gently responded. This made their goodbye kiss a little longer. But finally, First Snow waved her small, white hand and bid Adele a brief farewell.

    Adele watched until her figure disappeared from sight, then reluctantly returned to her dorm.

    Seraph remained exactly where she had been, like an exquisite doll that wouldn’t activate without its owner, staring at Adele’s face with her deep, ocean-blue eyes. Then…as expected, she became the target of the girl’s private “venting.” Adele reached out and pinched and pulled both sides of Seraph’s cheeks.

    “Stupid Seraph!”

    “I told you angels have to hide themselves, how could you be seen by anyone other than me!”

    “Pinch, pinch!”

    The feel was quite nice, though. Full of collagen, firm and elastic. More importantly, Seraph didn’t care if Adele would break her. Or rather, even if Adele did break her, she could use her mastery over matter to recreate herself for Adele’s “use.”

    However, there was a prerequisite. That was, she had to be in her own angelic space to accomplish this.

    After a while, Adele, tired of pinching, picked up the lightweight Seraph and sat down on the living room sofa. Then, while kneading the girl’s body, she asked, “Tell me, what is it?”

    Although Seraph rarely showed expressions, she still had all the necessary physical reactions. Especially this body, specifically made for Adele…a veritable human “sex doll.” So, with the girl’s caresses, it didn’t take long for Seraph to blush, a light, petal-like pink appearing on her body as well. And in a more private area…a wet feeling spread. Her expressionless face was full of spring-tide-like reactions.

    The small, silver-haired girl panted slightly. “Adele’s…power has grown stronger.”

    “Is that a compliment? It feels weird coming from you.” After all, Adele was the lewd witch who wielded the Original Sin of Lust. So praising her for becoming stronger, from another perspective, meant praising her lewdness. Plus, praising her for becoming more skilled at toying with girls…

    Seraph struggled against the pleasant sensations Adele was giving her and continued, “You have gained a new power, haven’t you noticed, Adele?”

    “New power?”

    At Seraph’s mention, Adele suddenly remembered. When she and First Snow reconciled, while looking at First Snow’s face, some scenes she had never seen before suddenly appeared in her mind. It was First Snow alone in Adele’s dorm before she returned, looking aggrieved and lonely. At that moment, Adele experienced everything First Snow had felt. She understood First Snow’s feelings and naturally wouldn’t be angry at the little cat-girl for her later, small revenge.

    But Adele hadn’t paid much attention to this, thinking it was just her imagination based on First Snow’s description. But now, recalling it after hearing Seraph’s words, Adele suddenly realized. There was no way imagination could be so real!

    “To trace back to the scene where strong emotions occurred, to witness it firsthand, and even to experience it empathetically…”

    “This is also one of the abilities of a witch.”

    And it was a realm that Adele shouldn’t be able to reach with her current power. But Adele had done it. This made Seraph feel even more…that the choice she made…was correct.

    “But I haven’t learned how to use it freely yet…I don’t understand.” Adele said honestly.

    Seraph then used a little force to free herself from the girl’s embrace, sitting directly between Adele’s legs and looking directly into her eyes. Their eyes met, and Adele, the “bully,” felt her mind slightly wander.

    The angel said in her usual tone, “It’s okay, I’ll help you.”

    But because of Seraph’s position, Adele couldn’t help but have some rather suggestive thoughts about this “help.”

  • Transformed into a Female Villain, But Captured by My Beautiful Girl Disciples v2c12

    Chapter 12: Prayers

    To avoid arousing the Grand Elder’s suspicion, the two performed a little act.

    Gong Yiling pretended to take his pulse, feigning a serious expression, then chuckled confidently before the Grand Elder could ask anything.

    Then, she stood up, placed Yan Chuyue in her seat, and said to the Grand Elder, “I want my disciple to examine this serious condition as well. I hope you don’t mind.”

    The Grand Elder, still captivated by her veiled smile, readily agreed.

    Of course, the author didn’t need to take his pulse to diagnose his condition. She had written it herself.

    Afterward, they stepped aside and exchanged information—actually, it was mostly Yan Chuyue speaking, while Gong Yiling memorized everything.

    “Immortal Master, is there a cure for my old injury?”

    “There’s always a cure.”

    Gong Yiling said seriously, “Your condition isn’t that severe. I’ll prescribe some medicine and acupuncture. Within a month, your injury will be healed.”

    “Just one month?” The Grand Elder was stunned.

    He had endured the agonizing pain of the Myriad Souls Heart Erosion Finger for so long.

    Hearing such a definite answer, he felt a sense of disbelief.

    “However, during this month,”

    Gong Yiling added casually, “I suggest you refrain from eating. I will personally deliver your medicine until you recover.”

    “Refrain from eating…”

    The Grand Elder frowned. “Are you worried about poison?”

    “There are hidden currents flowing beneath the surface of this Yanlie City,” Gong Yiling said. “Since someone dared to target the Fifth Princess and His Majesty, you should understand what that means.”

    “The demonic sects…”

    The Grand Elder understood her meaning, then said after a moment of silence, “I understand, Immortal Master. His Majesty has his own plans regarding this matter.”

    “Plans?”

    “You’ll understand in a few days.”

    “Is that so…”

    “But Immortal Master,” the Grand Elder suddenly changed the subject, drawing their attention to the other girl present—the strange girl who had been eating non-stop.

    She had already devoured two-thirds of the refreshments prepared for the three of them.

    Seemingly noticing their gazes, Lu Xinyao looked up, her cheeks puffed out, blinking innocently.

    “Is this also your disciple?”

    *Actually, she’s your granddaughter.*

    Gong Yiling scratched her cheek beneath the veil, nodding slightly. “I brought her to the palace to see the world. She just loves to eat. Please excuse her, Grand Elder.”

    Lu Xinyao let out a small, dissatisfied “Hmph.”

    —*Big Sister told me to eat.*

    Indeed, it was Gong Yiling’s deliberate instruction.

    She didn’t want the Grand Elder to recognize his granddaughter yet—especially since Lu Xinyao currently only knew demonic cultivation techniques.

    The more she acted like Little Heehee, the less likely they would connect her with the missing Fifth Princess.

    As for readapting to palace life, she would let Shangguan Ziyuan, sharing Little Heehee’s senses, handle that in the background.

    After exchanging a few more pleasantries, Gong Yiling took Shangguan Ziyuan for a stroll around the palace, leaving Yan Chuyue to begin the Grand Elder’s first acupuncture treatment.

    The Grand Elder was initially surprised that such an important task was entrusted to a disciple.

    But Yan Chuyue’s acupuncture quickly impressed him. Within minutes, he felt the stagnation in his meridians easing.

    Such immediate effects were truly remarkable.

    Meanwhile, Gong Yiling held Lu Xinyao’s hand, listening to her guidance as she memorized the locations of the guards throughout the palace.

    Although she wasn’t sure if it would be useful, it was better to be prepared.

    Finally, at dusk, amidst the Grand Elder’s praises, the three left the palace.

    —

    —

    For three days, things proceeded similarly.

    On the fourth day, news suddenly spread throughout the capital and quickly reached the entire Heartflame Empire.

    To pray for Shangguan Ziyuan’s safe return, while also sending out search parties, Emperor Shangguan Long announced a grand ancestral worship ceremony.

    This ceremony was a major event.

    Around three hundred cultivators under the age of thirty would be selected from across the nation. After several rounds of trials, five winners would be chosen.

    The winners would each receive a custom-made Flame King Soft Hedgehog Armor (delivery date unknown), various titles, territories, spirit stones, treasures, and other rewards.

    Most importantly, they would be personally commended by Emperor Shangguan Long and granted access to the royal ancestral grounds, the Heart of Blazing Flame.

    This ancestral ground required countless treasures from the current emperor to open, and each emperor could only open it twice in their lifetime.

    The Heart of Blazing Flame was a legendary place, the resting place of the Heartflame Empire’s founding emperor, Yan Huang Shangguan Yu. It contained countless treasures, secret manuals, and the ancient inheritance of the Shangguan bloodline.

    It was no exaggeration to say that the Heart of Blazing Flame was the foundation of the Heartflame Empire. Anyone who entered would emerge with great power and influence, not only within the empire but also among the sects of the Hundred Paths Mountain.

    Of course…

    Those who reached the top five were already renowned geniuses of the younger generation. They had bright futures even without entering the Heart of Blazing Flame.

    Although many understood this, they still hoped for the unlikely upset, the dream of a dark horse rising to victory.

    When Gong Yiling heard this news, she almost bit her tongue.

    This Emperor was bold.

    This was clearly a trap, not a prayer ceremony.

    Close proximity to the Emperor and access to the empire’s most sacred ground was an opportunity not just ordinary people craved, but also the demonic sects.

    As long as they used common martial or spiritual skills, they could avoid detection, then strike when they were close to Shangguan Long.

    This was a perfect opportunity for assassination.

     

  • After Failing to Find Immortality 213

    Chapter 213: Farewell and Departure, Changes in Changling

    Lin Tianlu pondered for a moment, then added, “This thousand-year tribulation probably has nothing to do with the laws of heaven and earth. The fact that mortals can’t cultivate and demons and ghosts are rampant… it must be caused by something that happened even earlier. And this tribulation is likely related to the decline of the demon race.”

    The Ninth Elder’s eyes widened in surprise.

    “You’re right, Tianlu. Did you already suspect this?”

    He hadn’t shown any signs of it when they returned from Hidden Dragon Abyss.

    It seemed he had been keeping his thoughts to himself.

    “It was just a guess.”

    Lin Tianlu shook his head. “There’s no point in discussing this with Ruoyu and the others. It would only worry them. So I just kept it to myself.”

    As Yu Xuanling had said, there was something important hidden in Hidden Dragon Abyss.

    Not just the fragment of the Heart Sea Soul Pendant, which had restored some of her power, but also the sealed spiritual vein.

    Perhaps it meant…

    That the current state of the world, with its strange rules, was artificially created. And there were many secrets yet to be uncovered.

    “You’re right, Tianlu. There’s no point in burdening Ruoyu and the others with this. It’s too abstract and distant for them. Even if they knew, they wouldn’t understand.”

    The Ninth Elder nodded in agreement.

    “But now it seems that the reason the Lunar Valley was established here a thousand years ago… perhaps our ancestors sensed the presence of the seal. Even with the spiritual energy sealed away, the valley could still benefit from its residual power.”

    She waved her hand, and wisps of spiritual energy materialized, swirling around her fingertips.

    “And now that the seal is broken, the concentration of spiritual energy in the Lunar Valley has increased significantly, even enhancing the Yin energy. It’s a great opportunity for our disciples.”

    Lin Tianlu smiled. “Shouldn’t you be happy about this, Martial Aunt?”

    “Of course I’m happy. It’s beneficial for us. And the unsealed spiritual vein only affects the area within a few miles. It won’t attract unwanted attention from outsiders.”

    The Ninth Elder’s eyes met his, her voice serious.

    “But what are your thoughts on this, Tianlu?”

    “My thoughts?”

    “If you were an ordinary scholar, or even a ghost practitioner, I wouldn’t ask.”

    She softened her voice. “But you possess extraordinary power, Tianlu. You’re not an ordinary mortal. The rules of this world, the thousand-year-old grudges, the power struggles… they’re not beyond your reach. With your abilities, you could easily change the course of history. How many demons, ghosts, or cultivators could stand against you?”

    “If you choose to intervene, this world will surely change.”

    “…”

    Lin Tianlu was silent.

    After a moment of thought, he said seriously, “I have no intention of interfering in worldly affairs, or even unraveling this thousand-year-old mystery.”

    The Ninth Elder’s eyes flickered. “Why not? With your power, you could achieve great things, even claim the throne. You could enjoy unimaginable wealth and status.

    I’m not saying that you’re driven by greed, Tianlu. But to achieve greatness, to make a name for oneself… it’s a natural human desire. How could a young and ambitious man not dream of such things? Haven’t you ever considered it?”

    Lin Tianlu didn’t hesitate. He smiled faintly and bowed slightly. “I have no desire for fame or fortune, Martial Aunt. Whether I’m known throughout the world or not is irrelevant to me.

    Perhaps my words sound naive or even pretentious, but I’m being completely honest. Whether I live a life of luxury and power, or a simple life, worrying about everyday matters… it makes no difference to me.”

    “It’s all just… life.”

    “…”

    The Ninth Elder stared at him intently.

    After a moment…

    A smile appeared on her lips. “I knew I could trust my judgment.”

    Lin Tianlu chuckled. “You were still worried, Martial Aunt?”

    “I just wanted to be sure.”

    The Ninth Elder stood up gracefully. “It seems my worries were unfounded.”

    She was relieved and pleased with herself for recognizing his true character.

    And his lack of ambition was reassuring.

    “You’re also different from ordinary people, Martial Aunt.”

    Lin Tianlu sighed softly.

    Most parents and elders would want their children’s spouses to achieve greatness, to climb the social ladder, or to become powerful figures in the world of cultivation, ensuring a comfortable and prosperous life for their family.

    But this woman was different. She was surprisingly… open-minded.

    “The world is changing, a storm is brewing. I just don’t want you to be caught in the crossfire, to waste your life on meaningless battles.”

    The Ninth Elder’s voice was gentle and warm. “As long as you can protect Ruoyu and live a happy and peaceful life together, I’ll be content. I can finally entrust her to you without worry.”

    She smiled faintly. “Even if you become an ordinary teacher in Changling County, I’ll be happy for you.”

    Her words were simple, without any demands or expectations, just a heartfelt blessing.

    But her genuine care and concern touched Lin Tianlu’s heart.

    This mother-in-law was truly kind and compassionate, her only wish for him and Ruoyu to live a peaceful and happy life.

    Lin Tianlu pondered for a moment, then bowed respectfully. “But I still need to find the remaining fragments for Xuanling and uncover the secrets of the Wan Sheng Immortal Sect. If I encounter similar sealed ley lines during my travels—”

    “Right and wrong, good and evil… it’s all up to you, Tianlu.”

    The Ninth Elder walked towards him and gently placed her finger on his chest, her eyes sparkling with a playful light.

    “I won’t interfere in your decisions. Even if you choose to turn the world upside down, to challenge the established order, I, Wu Jingyun, will stand by your side, supporting you as your elder, until the very end.”

    Lin Tianlu took a deep breath and was about to bow deeply, but the Ninth Elder stopped him, her smile gentle. “Now that I’ve entrusted Ruoyu to you, there’s no need for such formalities.”

    “It seems I’m still too formal.”

    Lin Tianlu chuckled and embraced her gently. “Martial Aunt, we’ll send you letters regularly. And we’ll visit whenever we have the opportunity. We won’t forget your kindness.”

    “Silly child…”

    The Ninth Elder patted his back, her voice soft. “We should be the ones thanking you, Tianlu.”

    She had so much more to say, so many words of gratitude and affection.

    But she simply enjoyed the warmth of his embrace, a feeling she hadn’t experienced in decades. “I’ll prepare lunch for you. We can eat together before you leave. It’s not safe to travel at night.”

    “Alright, Martial Aunt.”

    As they parted, the Ninth Elder looked up at his handsome face, her eyes sparkling with a gentle light. “Tianlu, remember my name. Not as the Ninth Elder of the Lunar Valley, but as… Wu Jingyun.”

    “I understand.”

    …

    After noon…

    Several figures stood outside the valley gate.

    After loading their luggage onto the carriage, Lin Tianlu turned to Wu Jingyun and the others, bowing slightly with a smile. “There’s no need to see us off, elders and Valley Master. It wouldn’t be appropriate for the other disciples to see this.”

    To be seen with a group of men in an all-female sect would surely cause a commotion.

    It would be like… a group of men barging into a girls’ school.

    “You’re our benefactor. It’s just a simple farewell. There’s no need to be so shy. It would be disrespectful to us if word of this got out.”

    The Valley Master, dressed in her elegant robe, her beauty radiant under the sunlight, smiled warmly. “I wanted you to stay longer, but with the wedding approaching, you should return and prepare.

    I’ll send Jingyun and the others to Changling in about half a month. They can help with the arrangements.”

    “Thank you for your understanding, Valley Master.”

    Lin Tianlu, Mao Ruoyu, and Hua Shuya bowed in farewell.

    Mao Ruoyu smiled sweetly and waved to Wu Jingyun.

    They had already shared a heartfelt conversation during lunch, so there was no need for lingering farewells or tearful goodbyes.

    They would see each other again soon.

    “We’ll see you all again soon.”

    “Take care.”

    …

    As the carriage disappeared into the distance, the elders sighed softly and dispersed.

    Only the Valley Master and the Second Elder remained.

    “It seems Jingyun’s heart has finally found peace. Her expression is much softer now. I’ve never seen her so gentle and affectionate before.”

    The Second Elder looked in the direction of the Ninth Elder’s departing figure and nodded approvingly. “It’s not just Ruoyu’s return, but also that Lin boy—”

    “That Master Lin has a unique charm.”

    The Valley Master smiled mysteriously. “His aura is so pure and comforting, it can easily disarm people, making them trust him implicitly. Those ten days were enough to melt Jingyun’s icy heart, to break through her years of loneliness.”

    The Second Elder frowned.

    After a moment of silence, she said in a low voice, “Valley Master, everything that happened these past few weeks… was it all part of your plan?”

    “Shh—”

    The Valley Master raised her finger to her lips and chuckled softly. “It wouldn’t be any fun if I revealed everything.”

    Seeing the enigmatic smile on her face, the Second Elder sighed. “You’re truly unfathomable. I can never tell what you’re thinking.”

    “Sometimes, fate is just that mysterious.”

    The Valley Master’s eyes flickered, as if filled with starlight, her smile widening.

    “And it’s the first time I’ve encountered someone whose fate is so difficult to decipher, like a hazy mist, impossible to see through. Not just those three women who accompanied him, but even Jingyun’s fate has become unpredictable, as if it’s been altered!”

    “Fate…”

    The Second Elder’s expression turned serious. “What does this mean for the future of the Lunar Valley?”

    “Now that we’re connected to Master Lin, I can’t see clearly anymore.”

    But the Valley Master’s smile remained carefree. “But that’s what makes it so interesting.”

    “…Are we truly not going to re-enter the world?”

    “Re-enter the world?”

    The Valley Master scoffed and turned to walk back towards the estate.

    “It was just a lie, a carefully crafted illusion. We’re not foolish enough to fall for it.

    Let those other factions fight amongst themselves. We have no need to get involved in their petty squabbles. Now that the Soul Moon is gone, and the thousand-year legacy broken, we, the ‘Lunar Valley,’ are the true inheritors of the past.”

    …

    In Changling County, within the Cheng residence…

    The weather was growing colder, the autumn wind biting.

    Inside an elegant and antique study, a warm fire crackled in the hearth, its fragrant smoke filling the air.

    A beautiful woman with white hair sat at the desk, her expression focused as she wrote, an air of authority and dignity about her.

    “…”

    Cheng Yishi tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, thought for a moment, then continued writing.

    After a while, she handed the paper to her maid, who had just entered the study. “Have Uncle Li purchase these items, and send some fine wine and silk to the prince’s residence. There’s no rush. Within the next two or three days will be fine.”

    “Yes, Miss.” The maid took the list respectfully.

    “And in a couple of days, purchase some new winter fabrics and furs. The New Year is approaching. We need to prepare.”

    “Yes, Miss.”

    The maid hesitated for a moment, then asked softly, “Aren’t you going to meet the distinguished guest who has arrived in Changling, Miss?”

    Cheng Yishi looked up at her, a faint smile on her lips. “I’m not interested in currying favor with the powerful and wealthy. The Cheng family doesn’t need their patronage. We’re content with our simple life.”

    “But if you don’t pay your respects, Miss, I’m worried it might cause trouble.”

    “This distinguished guest is not a savage or unreasonable person. He’s a learned scholar. He won’t make things difficult for us.” Cheng Yishi put down her brush and sighed softly. “Our hesitation has already made our intentions clear. He won’t force us.”

    The maid nodded thoughtfully.

    But then her eyes flickered, and she looked towards the quiet courtyard, her expression troubled. “But what about… ‘her’?”

    “…”

    Cheng Yishi froze, her hand on her back.

    After a long silence, she sighed deeply.

    “I suppose I should go and meet this Miss Yang.”

  • Friend(GL) 107

    Chapter 107: Evidence

    You Ruxu looked at Zhou Tianzui, who was lying in bed, wanting to sit up, but unable to, her attempts futile, her forehead covered in sweat, her face pale, her lips bitten red. She looked at You Ruxu, a pleading look in her eyes, shaking her head slightly.

    She was begging her.

    Not to agree.

    You Ruxu’s heart tore in two, half for Zhou Tianzui’s silent plea, half for the hopeful look in Yu Qiao’s eyes. Yu Qiao’s hand gripped hers tightly. After a few seconds, she said, “We’ll find a way.”

    Zhou Tianzui, exhausted, lay back against the pillows, staring at the ceiling light. Yu Qiao’s voice was filled with gratitude, “I knew you would find a way, Xiao Xu, please help Xiao Tian.”

    You Ruxu nodded, “Okay.”

    Zhou Tianzui turned her head away.

    Yu Qiao said, “I’m going to talk to her director.”

    “I’ll go.” You Ruxu said, “I’ll go.”

    Zhou Tianzui’s voice was sharp, almost hysterical, “No, you won’t!”

    You Ruxu said, “Zhou Tianzui…”

    “I said, you’re not going!” Zhou Tianzui said, “You dare go?”

    She looked at You Ruxu.

    Their eyes met, and You Ruxu’s breath hitched, her heart skipping a beat, a numbness spreading through her before she recovered, “Let’s deal with the hospital issue first.”

    Otherwise, this would snowball. Currently, it was Zhou Tianzui’s voluntary resignation, but later, it might become a dismissal, the implications different. If she was fired, how could she continue working in the same field?

    Zhou Tianzui said, “You don’t have to deal with anything.”

    Yu Qiao was exasperated, “What do you mean? Do you have to wait until everyone’s condemning you, until you can’t work as a doctor anymore? Xiao Xu, ignore her, you go.”

    You Ruxu turned her back to Zhou Tianzui and heard Yu Qiao yell, “Zhou Tianzui!”

    She turned around and saw Zhou Tianzui sitting up, clutching her wound, the white sheet stained crimson.

    The wound had reopened.

    You Ruxu froze.

    Yu Qiao frantically went to find a doctor. Zhou Tianzui said, “Don’t go.”

    You Ruxu’s eyes instantly reddened, “Are you crazy? Lie down!” She wheeled herself over to Zhou Tianzui’s bed and placed a hand on her shoulder. Zhou Tianzui grabbed her wrist tightly, “Deal with the hospital issue first, and then what? Deal with my father’s case? How do you plan on doing that?”

    Her words were like nails, piercing You Ruxu’s heart.

    You Ruxu said, “We’ll find a way.”

    “What way?” Zhou Tianzui said, “Tell me, what way?”

    Her face was pale. You Ruxu said, “We’ll discuss it later, I promise, I’ll just talk to the hospital about the resignation.”

    Zhou Tianzui asked, “Really?”

    A hint of vulnerability in her voice.

    You Ruxu nodded, “Really.”

    Zhou Tianzui seemed to relax slightly.

    She released You Ruxu’s hand and frowned.

    You Ruxu asked, “What’s wrong?”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “My wound hurts.”

    “You!” You Ruxu wanted to yell at her, but she couldn’t bring herself to. Yu Qiao entered the ward with a doctor. You Ruxu left and went to find Zhou Tianzui’s director, who looked troubled, “The higher-ups want to handle this discreetly, wait for things to die down…”

    He was being euphemistic. The incident had become a big deal, and the higher-ups were still observing the situation. Just before You Ruxu entered, the director had been arguing with them. Zhou Tianzui’s father’s case, even if there was wrongdoing, it was her father’s wrongdoing, how could it be held against her?

    But the higher-ups argued that, regarding Zhou Tianzui and the deputy director, if they made a statement now, it might be seen as protecting Zhou Tianzui, so it was best to wait.

    “We can’t wait.” You Ruxu said, “This is clearly a targeted attack, if we don’t respond, it will only escalate.”

    It was a blatant diversion tactic.

    Someone wanted to shift public attention. The Fengyuan case, which had been a hot topic, suddenly died down, replaced by Zhou Tianzui’s story, which wouldn’t have gained so much traction without someone pushing it, someone from Fengyuan.

    The director looked at You Ruxu, seeing her clear and logical reasoning, “Then what should we do?”

    “Sue.” You Ruxu said, “Sue in the hospital’s name.”

    The director paused.

    Suing in the hospital’s name meant they unequivocally supported Zhou Tianzui, “But then people will think the hospital is covering up for her.”

    “What cover-up?” You Ruxu, sitting in her wheelchair, looked at the director and said firmly, “A cover-up is for concealing a crime, did Zhou Tianzui commit a crime? Was there anything inappropriate between her and the deputy director?”

    Her series of questions silenced the director.

    The director was on Zhou Tianzui’s side, she wouldn’t have argued with the higher-ups otherwise, but some decisions weren’t hers to make, Before she could respond.

    There was a knock on the door.

    The director said, “Come in.”

    It was Fu Shushu.

    Followed by He Wei, Lin Luo, Zhao Mingqi, and several other doctors, standing behind You Ruxu. The director asked, “What is it?”

    Fu Shushu said, “We want to help Dr. Zhou.”

    The director was stunned.

    Fu Shushu said, “I can’t speak for other matters, but there was definitely nothing going on between Zhou Tianzui and the deputy director.”

    If there was, why would she compete with her for the position?

    The director, already troubled by this matter, frowned, “Don’t make a fuss…”

    “This is not a fuss.” You Ruxu said, “This is about the hospital’s reputation, about a doctor’s reputation, if the hospital doesn’t make a statement, if you continue to remain silent, do you want to demoralize all the doctors here?”

    He Wei and Lin Luo stepped forward, standing beside You Ruxu, their expressions indignant, as if they wouldn’t back down unless the director took action, a youthful fearlessness in their eyes. The director, holding her phone, looked at them, usually the different departments were constantly at odds, but this was the first time she felt such unity within their department.

    Even Fu Shushu was speaking up for Zhou Tianzui.

    The director said, “I’ll apply for a lawsuit.”

    “It’s not an application, it’s a necessity.” You Ruxu said, “Please inform the higher-ups, if the hospital continues to ignore this, the Jindu TV news team will continue reporting on how Dr. Zhou was injured saving a child, and the hospital’s lack of response.”

    The director looked at You Ruxu.

    You Ruxu wasn’t wearing makeup, dressed in a hospital gown, her hair loose, her features delicate and beautiful, an air of composure about her, her tone calm and steady, not a single harsh word, yet her words carried weight.

    The director nodded, “Okay.”

    You Ruxu said calmly, “Thank you.”

    The director said, “You’re welcome, I also hope this incident with her father doesn’t affect Dr. Zhou.”

    You Ruxu paused for two seconds: “It won’t.”

    She said, “Her father was a good reporter.”

    The office was quiet. You Ruxu wheeled herself out. In the corridor, she looked out the window, the sun warm and gentle, the flowers blooming beautifully. Behind her, He Wei softly called out, “Teacher You.”

    You Ruxu turned around.

    She looked at Fu Shushu and the others, “Thank you, for what you did just now.”

    Fu Shushu said, “You’re welcome, if Dr. Zhou needs anything, just let us know.”

    You Ruxu nodded.

    He Wei asked, “Teacher You, where are you going? Should I take you?”

    You Ruxu said, “No, thank you, I need to make a few calls.”

    He Wei said, “Okay, we won’t disturb you then.”

    You Ruxu smiled at them, her face pale, but her expression firm, an undeniable charisma. She sat by the window and first called Captain Zhou for a consultation, then contacted Chen Xiang, who agreed after hearing what she said, “I’ll talk to the boss.”

    You Ruxu said, “Thank you.”

    “No problem!” Chen Xiang said, “Teacher You, I’m happy to help Dr. Zhou.”

    You Ruxu wanted to laugh.

    Zhou Tianzui always said she had no friends, she wanted her to know how wrong she was.

    Wu Xiulian arrived at the hospital just as You Ruxu finished her calls. The sunset painted the sky in warm hues, but as the sun dipped below the horizon, the gentle breeze turned cold. You Ruxu, wheeling herself towards Zhou Tianzui’s ward, saw Wu Xiulian.

    Wu Xiulian said, “I didn’t see you in your ward, so I figured you would be here.”

    You Ruxu said, “Yes, I went out for a bit.”

    Wu Xiulian said, “I heard the hospital is suing?”

    You Ruxu nodded.

    Wu Xiulian continued, “I’ve already contacted the information management department, they’ll fully cooperate.”

    You Ruxu’s heart was warmed by all the kindness, a stark contrast to the pain and anxiety earlier. A strength surged within her. She didn’t speak, just smiled at Wu Xiulian.

    Wu Xiulian stepped forward and hugged her.

    Yu Qiao opened the door and saw them, “Xiao Xu’s back.”

    You Ruxu had been out all afternoon, and Yu Qiao had been worried. Zhou Tianzui’s wound had reopened and needed to be restitched, she had been drowsy all afternoon, no one to talk to, she couldn’t help but look at her phone.

    The insults and accusations online were driving her to the edge.

    The hospital had filed the lawsuit.

    Against those who spread the rumors about Zhou Tianzui and the deputy director, even identifying the so-called “hospital insider” as the owner of a supermarket near the hospital. He immediately apologized online after being sued, claiming it was just hearsay, even insisting that everyone at the First Affiliated Hospital knew about it.

    [Excuse me, I’m a doctor at the First Affiliated Hospital, and I’ve never heard of this.]

    [I’m a nurse in the obstetrics department, this is the first time I’m hearing this rumor.]

    [I’m an intern, Dr. Zhou is an excellent doctor, very dedicated to her work.]

    Public opinion started to shift, no longer one-sided, but they then turned their attention to Zhou Tianzui’s father, claiming the hospital was just protecting her, that those doctors were forced to make those statements, instructed by the hospital.

    But at least it wasn’t just insults like this afternoon.

    You Ruxu was wheeled into the ward. Wu Xiulian brought dinner, two portions, “You two eat first, I’ll go get two more from the cafeteria.”

    Yu Qiao said, “I’ll go.”

    Wu Xiulian looked at her.

    Yu Qiao said, “You stay here.”

    Her tone polite, a subtle acceptance.

    She seemed to have come to terms with their relationship. Wu Xiulian sighed, then seeing Yu Qiao leave, noticing how much she had aged after these incidents, her guilt intensified. She looked at You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui and said, “You two eat first, Xu Xu, you sit there, I’ll feed Dr. Zhou.”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m fine.”

    “You’re fine, but you can’t eat by yourself.” Wu Xiulian said, “It’s just porridge, you can’t have anything too greasy right now.”

    Zhou Tianzui gave a small “mm-hmm.”

    The ward was quiet. You Ruxu opened her lunchbox and said, “The evening news will report on Fengyuan, it should divert some of the attention.”

    Zhou Tianzui ate her porridge, her expression unreadable, and heard You Ruxu continue, “After the hospital lawsuit, I’ll ask Chen Xiang to do an anonymous interview.”

    Zhou Tianzui looked up.

    You Ruxu turned to her, “About your father, there’s a way.”

    She said, “We can do an anonymous interview, to clear his name.”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “Anonymous.” She looked down, “Who would believe an anonymous interview without any evidence?”

    You Ruxu said, “I’ll…”

    “It’s not that there’s no evidence.” Wu Xiulian, looking down at her bowl of porridge, her words silencing the room, a long silence following, then she repeated, “It’s not that there’s no evidence.”

    You Ruxu looked at her, “Aunt?”

    Wu Xiulian said, “Xu Xu, I’m sorry, I’m sorry to you, and I’m sorry to Dr. Zhou.” She looked up at You Ruxu, her voice low, “I have the notebook.”

  • Inferior A After Having a Baby with the Top Boss 39

    Chapter 39: Ming Fei Is Actually—

    Before Chief Zhu of the Southern Military Academy appeared, Princess Eloris of the northern Anrui family, for various reasons, had to attend the Omega Noble Academy.

    At that time, Princess Eloris was only sixteen years old. Her striking black hair and blue eyes, and her beautiful, aggressive face, made her accustomed to wearing a custom-made mask during her studies.

    She would get full marks in every course, be gentle and polite in front of the teachers, and get along amicably with her fellow omega classmates in public.

    But in reality—

    She was a member of the Mehertaer faction.

    Since its establishment, the Omega Noble Academy had served the Ole Empire and was a loyal supporter of royal power and the Kerry Declaration. The Mehertaer faction, however, had openly opposed the Kerry Declaration for hundreds of years, their philosophy and actions diametrically opposed to those of the Omega Noble Academy.

    Eloris, who received awards from the Omega Academy during the day, would switch identities at night, logging into the Mehertaer faction’s intranet, completely free from the rules of the Omega Academy.

    And all of this destined her to never become friends with the other omegas at school.

    Most omegas had been trained by the school to be tools, taking pride in marrying excellent alphas. They attended impractical courses day after day, like beautiful and fragile porcelain.

    Once they left the safety of their protective bubble and faced the storm alone, they would waver, stumble, fall, and even shatter.

    Eloris had tried to discuss topics other than alphas with the omegas, but most of them showed little interest and even looked at her strangely.

    Those looks seemed to say—

    How could Princess Eloris say such things?

    Has Princess Eloris gone mad? Has she become a freak?

    So, Eloris never had any other communication with the omegas at school.

    Life in the northern region of the Ole Empire was peaceful. Although nearly half of the year was accompanied by heavy snow, the Anrui family castle was always protected from the wind and snow.

    However, one day, Eloris saw her omega mother come home amidst the wind and snow, her mother’s pale fingertips colder than the snowflakes on her hat.

    Eloris didn’t know what had happened.

    It wasn’t until she heard her two mothers arguing at night that she learned that her alpha mother had been unfaithful again.

    Eloris didn’t know how to persuade her omega mother to divorce, because she had already tried fifty-two times when her alpha mother first cheated.

    No matter how she tried to persuade her, her omega mother remained silent.

    Soon, the arguing in the living room stopped, and Eloris quietly returned to her study.

    Her long black curly hair fell onto the desk. Eloris pursed her lips, her gaze fixed on the photo under the lamp.

    After a moment, she put the family photo into the drawer, then took out her communicator and logged into the Mehertaer faction’s intranet, checking the latest news.

    The snowy night was quiet, and soon it was bedtime. Eloris returned to her bedroom and lay down.

    When the door was pushed open, Eloris closed her eyes.

    She was already very skilled at pretending to be asleep, because her omega mother would occasionally come to her room to check if she had gone to bed on time, to ensure she had enough energy to study for the new courses the next day.

    This night was like any other, her omega mother only staying for a minute.

    When the door clicked softly closed, Eloris, pretending to be asleep, opened her eyes.

    She would usually use this fragmented free time for strength training, to ensure she could join the Southern Military Academy after completing her plan.

    But perhaps because her mothers’ argument and tears lingered in her mind, she took out her communicator and quietly looked at the window. Seeing a hazy glow, she opened “Supporters of the Rose” for the first time.

    This was a platform created by supporters of the Mehertaer faction.

    Unlike the members of the Mehertaer faction, the supporters were often restricted by certain conditions and couldn’t truly join the faction.

    The reason Eloris knew about the existence of “Supporters of the Rose” was entirely because many members of the Mehertaer faction had recommended this platform on the intranet, and many members were even very active on it.

    Opening the regular registration page of “Supporters of the Rose,” Eloris randomly chose a system cat avatar and entered a four-character nickname. Without adding any text to her personal introduction, she clicked on the homepage.

    Unlike the solemn atmosphere of the Mehertaer faction’s public network, the atmosphere on “Supporters of the Rose” was relaxed and friendly, and many supporters were closely following the new developments of the Mehertaer faction.

    After reading some of the supporters’ interpretation posts, Eloris was about to exit “Supporters of the Rose.”

    Just as her fingertip was about to touch the exit button, her gaze paused on the nickname of a recommended account.

    [Tree of Mystical Jade]

    If she remembered correctly, this nickname should come from the same book as hers, and that book wasn’t a bestseller, and very few people read it now.

    But Eloris liked it, because the content of that book was rich and colorful, and it didn’t involve anything about the Ole Empire, not even a hint of implicit domestication.

    Curiosity made her gaze linger on the nickname for a moment.

    But it was only for a moment. She didn’t even click on the personal page of “Tree of Mystical Jade,” just glanced at it and exited “Supporters of the Rose.”

    The second time she logged in was after the Mehertaer faction announced the new regulations for the North.

    Eloris saw the nickname “Tree of Mystical Jade” again in the likes list of a post.

    Then, the nearby recommendations system of “Supporters of the Rose” … even recommended “Tree of Mystical Jade” to her.

    The nearby recommendations function of “Supporters of the Rose” had many recognized bugs. For example, the North and South, two regions half a world apart, were also considered adjacent areas in “Supporters of the Rose.”

    Eloris was about to exit when a new message popped up in the notification box.

    [22:45, December 27, user Tree of Mystical Jade liked your new post ^^]

    Eloris was a little confused because she hadn’t posted anything. What did “Tree of Mystical Jade” like?

    She clicked on the detailed page of the system message and saw that she… had automatically published a post ten minutes ago.

    [Today is the sixteenth day since One Raccoon Hill registered on Supporters of the Rose. Nice to meet everyone ^^]

    Eloris had already been lying in her soft and comfortable bed.

    After seeing the automatically published post, she quickly got out of bed and took out her cherished book, confirming that the name “Tree of Mystical Jade” did indeed come from the same book as hers, even the same chapter and page. Without much hesitation, following the principle of reciprocity, she clicked on the system dog avatar of “Tree of Mystical Jade.”

    Coincidences followed one after another.

    The personal page of “Tree of Mystical Jade” was also blank, with only an automatic system message identical to hers.

    [Today is the sixteenth day since Tree of Mystical Jade registered on Supporters of the Rose. Nice to meet everyone ^^]

    She closed the book and liked the automatic post of “Tree of Mystical Jade.”

    The next moment—

    A new system notification popped up.

    [Tree of Mystical Jade followed you~]

    Princess Eloris, who had received full marks in social etiquette class at the Omega Noble Academy, had never met anyone who liked to read “Records of Ancient Mountains.” Not only did she follow back this “Tree of Mystical Jade” who registered on the same day as her, but she also took the initiative to send a message.

    [One Raccoon Hill: Hello, do you also like to eat pears?]

    Pears were Eloris’s favorite fruit, but her alpha mother believed that pears were too common, too ordinary, and too cheap to reflect the noble style of the Anrui family, let alone be a noble’s favorite.

    Therefore, her alpha mother concealed her true preference and publicly declared that her favorite was Lizhu, the most expensive specialty of the Ole Empire.

    And in the description of “Records of Ancient Mountains,” One Raccoon Hill was covered with pear trees, and there were many raccoon cats guarding the mountain. Whenever the pear trees blossomed and bore fruit, One Raccoon Hill would be filled with sweet pears.

    So, Eloris, who loved pears, used this as her nickname.

    Tree of Mystical Jade replied very quickly.

    [Tree of Mystical Jade: What a coincidence, hello, pears are delicious. The Tree of Mystical Jade is a divine tree that grows on the top of One Raccoon Hill, representing freedom and courage. Its branches and leaves are not made of wood and leaves, but jade and crystals, signifying indestructibility.]

    [Tree of Mystical Jade: Of course~ the main reason for choosing this nickname is—my name happens to have a character related to jade and crystals ^^]

    Eloris understood and replied.

    [One Raccoon Hill: I understand, sorry to disturb you.]

    The white system dog avatar moved.

    [Tree of Mystical Jade: No disturbance at all, nice to meet you.]

    Eloris politely replied.

    [One Raccoon Hill: Nice to meet you too.]

    [Tree of Mystical Jade: [Happy.jpg]]

    Eloris exited “Supporters of the Rose.”

    A month later, when Eloris logged into “Supporters of the Rose” again, she had made significant progress in her secret plan.

    As soon as she logged in, the system’s automatic reminder message popped up.

    [Congratulations to One Raccoon Hill, today is the thirtieth day since you and Tree of Mystical Jade followed each other! Send a message to continue your friendship~]

    Eloris accidentally clicked the reminder message, and the system automatically redirected her to Tree of Mystical Jade’s personal page.

    She was about to exit when she noticed that Tree of Mystical Jade had posted a new update at noon today.

    It was a clear and straightforward picture.

    There was nothing else in the picture, only a beautiful drum.

    Eloris had seen this kind of drum when she was a child. At that time, she had traveled to the remote border with her omega mother, and her mother bought one for her because she liked it. But her orchid drum had been lost on the way back, and it was different from the one in the picture.

    The drum in the picture was more exquisite and eye-catching, every detail perfectly crafted, and the color was also a little different.

    Eloris glanced at the number of followers Tree of Mystical Jade had and found that after a month, she was still the only one. She liked the picture.

    Then—

    She sent another message.

    [One Raccoon Hill: Hello, sorry to disturb you. May I ask where you bought this drum?]

    Tree of Mystical Jade happened to be online, the white system dog avatar lit up.

    [Tree of Mystical Jade: Hello, do you like it?]

    Eloris replied honestly.

    [One Raccoon Hill: Mm.]

    [One Raccoon Hill: Did you buy it near the border?]

    [Tree of Mystical Jade: No~]

    [Tree of Mystical Jade: I made it myself :)]

    Eloris had originally thought that Tree of Mystical Jade was about the same age as her. After receiving this new message, she guessed that the other party might be a professional drum maker with extensive experience in the field.

    [One Raccoon Hill: Hello, may I ask how old are you?]

    [Tree of Mystical Jade: Thirteen.]

    Eloris paused, realizing that the other party was three years younger than her. She suppressed the urge to order one.

    Perhaps because she seemed very interested, Tree of Mystical Jade sent her a few more messages.

    [Tree of Mystical Jade: Thank you for liking it.]

    [Tree of Mystical Jade: I accidentally spilled some grape juice on it while making it, so I just dyed the whole drum surface light purple. You can’t see the purple indoors, but it becomes more obvious in sunlight~]

    [Tree of Mystical Jade: I named it the Grape-faced Bellflower Orchid Drum ^^]

    Attached to the message were two pictures taken in sunlight. Eloris clicked on them and looked, finding the drum even more exquisite.

    And someone who could make such a beautiful drum definitely wouldn’t be an alpha. She thought.

    So, the sixteen-year-old One Raccoon Hill and the thirteen-year-old Tree of Mystical Jade gradually opened up to each other, talking about the orchid drum. Although most of the time it was Tree of Mystical Jade who sent more messages, One Raccoon Hill’s replies were few and concise.

    But as supporters of the Mehertaer faction, they did have more contact from then on.

    As the frequency of their chats gradually increased from once a month, to once every half a month, once a week, once every three days, and finally to once every two days, almost six months had passed.

    In the tenth month—

    When Eloris logged into “Supporters of the Rose,” the system, which sent a reminder every month, promptly sent her a notification.

    [Congratulations to One Raccoon Hill, today is the 240th day since you and Tree of Mystical Jade followed each other! Send a message to continue your friendship~]

    So—

    After staring at Tree of Mystical Jade’s name for a moment, Eloris changed her nickname for the contact.

    [Skwiatowy]

    This was a word from a remote tribe in the South, meaning “little flower drum.”

    In the eleventh month, there was a particularly heavy snowfall in the North.

    In the twelfth month, another scandal broke out in the Anrui family in the North.

    At the beginning of the thirteenth month, the heavy snow in the North buried Eloris Anrui, the princess, and the grape-faced bellflower orchid drum that hadn’t yet been received, sent by Tree of Mystical Jade.

    From then on, the snow sealed away Eloris and One Raccoon Hill, and a new outstanding top student appeared in the Southern Military Academy.

    Time flew by.

    At the beginning of the thirteenth year after they lost contact, the memories belonging to One Raccoon Hill were awakened again. Zhu Yiqiao, who had been the Chief Judge for two years, at the peak of her power, and always calm and collected, was momentarily stunned.

    Because all of this was too coincidental.

    As coincidental as the initial genetic match.

    Could this alpha, who came from the same world as her, met her in the same country after transmigrating, and had a daughter with her by chance, really be… Skwiatowy?

    The moment their eyes met, Zhu Yiqiao stared intently at the person on the bed.

    Ming Fei, being stared at, was a little confused. She looked away, glancing at her surroundings, and after confirming that she was back in the villa in the Independent State of Yi Meng, she looked back at Zhu Yiqiao, who was walking towards her.

    It was already five o’clock in the afternoon.

    The setting sun hung at the edge of the sea level, dyeing the sunset orange, gold, and warm yellow, like fragrant popcorn that hadn’t been evenly colored after popping.

    A few rays of sunlight streamed through the French windows of the balcony, falling on Zhu Yiqiao’s white shirt.

    Her proportions were excellent, a perfect nine-head-to-body ratio. The top button of her shirt, usually buttoned to the top, was now undone. The hem was tucked into her belt, and she wore dark boots that matched the Trial Court uniform.

    Noble, cold, sharp, like a drawn blade.

    Ming Fei, waking from her sleep, watched her approach and gave her a light smile.

    “Jiejie.”

    Zhu Yiqiao stopped three steps away from the bed.

    “Mm.” Her voice was low as she replied and asked, “Are you feeling unwell anywhere?”

    Ming Fei shook her head: “I feel okay now.”

    Then, she asked, “How long was I unconscious?”

    “Twenty hours.”

    Ming Fei was a little surprised, but didn’t show it, after all, her symptoms were very strange, and there was no cure in this world.

    She just asked, “Does Zaozao know?”

    “She just found out that we’re back.”

    Ming Fei said, “Then I’ll go pick Zaozao up.”

    Zhu Yiqiao looked at her, and Ming Fei inexplicably felt that her gaze was a little complicated, suddenly thinking that perhaps her condition was very bad.

    She tentatively asked, “…Is my situation very serious?”

    Zhu Yiqiao didn’t say a word.

    Ming Fei moved her wrist and realized that the pheromone bracelet was a different model, and there was a band-aid on the back of her hand, clearly indicating that she had been given some kind of injection before waking up.

    Looking at her bandaged palm, her thoughts spiraling towards the worst-case scenario, Zhu Yiqiao suddenly enlarged the photo of Ming Zaozao holding the drum and asked,

    “Did you make this drum?”

    Ming Fei looked up, a little puzzled, but still nodded honestly.

    “Mm, I did.”

    For a moment, Ming Fei felt that Zhu Yiqiao’s gaze became even more complicated.

    “Why is it different from the previous one?”

    Ming Fei’s eyes were clear as she said, “When I first made it for Zaozao, I couldn’t find the right materials, so I had to make a modified version for her to play with. Last time, Jiejie said you liked that drum, and she wanted to give it to you. When I went to buy the materials again, I happened to find them.”

    “But I thought Jiejie would prefer the modified version, so I only made an original version for Zaozao.”

    Zhu Yiqiao asked again, “What kind of drum is this?”

    Ming Fei said, word by word, “It’s a flower drum I designed myself when I was thirteen. Its name is the Grape-faced Bellflower Orchid Drum.”

    Just as she finished speaking, the few rays of sunlight faded, and the sensor lights in the room automatically turned on.

    After a moment of silence, Ming Fei finally heard Zhu Yiqiao answer the question she was most concerned about, her condition.

    “…It’s not serious.”

    “The doctor said that with active treatment, you’ll recover.”

    Ming Fei’s attention was completely focused on the last sentence—with active treatment, you’ll recover.

    She immediately decided to write down the twelve words “follow the doctor’s orders, take medicine on time, and actively treat” in her memo pad, diary, and daily to-do list.

    The flame of hope was burning.

    Ming Fei asked happily, “Jiejie, then how should I treat it?”

    “—Pheromone guidance and co-regulation.”

    Zhu Yiqiao looked at her and said, “If necessary, it will be accompanied by intimate acts, such as holding hands, hugging, and kissing, for guidance.”

  • The Devil Does Not Need to Be Defeated 499

    Chapter 499: “Don’t… Don’t Come Any Closer…!”

    As the commotion subsided, night finally fell upon the Elven Homeland.

    Compared to the daytime, the Elven Homeland at night was even more beautiful.

    Although located deep within a forest, surrounded by ferocious monsters, the Elven Homeland was protected by a barrier and remained unaffected, like a tranquil village on a magical night, a peaceful atmosphere pervading the air.

    The glowing trees emitted a soft light.

    Fairies and butterflies danced, trailing long tails of light, creating beautiful patterns in the air.

    The unicorns and other fantasy creatures seemed to be asleep.

    The elves seemed to be engaging in after-dinner activities, some taking walks, some doing handicrafts, seemingly preparing for the next morning.

    Shien and his group settled into their tree house and had dinner.

    Dinner was prepared by Lasha.

    This amazing maid had somehow procured a bunch of ingredients they had never seen before, then calmly cooked them into a luxurious dinner.

    The dishes were said to be something Lasha had never made before.

    But even though they were new dishes, they were so delicious that it made one want to swallow their plates and tongues, even more magical than the Elven Homeland itself.

    Fortunately, Shien had long since given up on trying to understand Lasha’s cooking, or he wouldn’t be able to sleep.

    In short, “Lasha is invincible” was the only explanation.

    After dinner, the group chatted for a while, then dispersed.

    “I’m sleepy. Don’t wake me up unless it’s important.”

    Airi said this curtly, then returned to her room and fell asleep.

    “I’m going to find Melika.”

    Lucy suddenly said this, as if she was concerned about what Melika was doing, and quickly left.

    Shien wanted to follow, but Lucy was already gone.

    “Why is she running so fast?”

    Shien was dissatisfied.

    He strongly suspected that this princess couldn’t wait to go out and have fun.

    She had been restless since arriving in the Elven Homeland, wanting to explore. She must be very curious about the night scenery here.

    There was nothing wrong with that.

    However, leaving her fiancé behind and going out to play alone wasn’t very considerate.

    “I’ll deal with you later.”

    Shien made a mental note of this, then turned around and went back, preparing to cuddle and play with Lilith to pass the time.

    Who would have thought that Lilith was also asleep?

    “I’ll take care of Miss Lilith.”

    Lasha carried the sleeping Lilith and returned to her room.

    Shien stared blankly at this, then suddenly realized.

    “Have I been abandoned?”

    Yes.

    He had been abandoned.

    In this village unfriendly to men, he had been left alone by the girls around him.

    “I…” Shien wanted to curse, then sighed. “Forget it, I should go to bed early too.”

    Shien returned to his room and lay down on the bed.

    Here, the bed wasn’t a soft mattress and warm blanket, but a hammock-like tree bed.

    Vines extended from the walls of the room, interweaving to form a net, covered with leaves and unknown herbs, emitting a refreshing fragrance.

    Shien tried it out and found that this bed wasn’t as shaky as a hammock, very stable, not only comfortable but also making one reluctant to get up. Coupled with the lingering fragrance, Shien almost instantly fell asleep.

    “No wonder those two little girls went to bed so early.”

    Shien realized.

    When they chose their rooms during the day, Airi had been very satisfied with this type of bed, and Lilith had also been jumping on it for a long time. At night, influenced by the quiet and peaceful atmosphere outside, wanting to go to bed early was understandable.

    Shien glanced out the window and saw that Yulin had actually flown to the Queen’s Palace and was sleeping comfortably on the canopy.

    That scene almost made Shien think that this village had been occupied by the dragon, now sleeping at the highest point of the Elven Homeland, like a lord.

    “Is she taking revenge for what happened during the day?”

    Shien almost laughed out loud.

    He knew that because of what happened during the day, Yulin’s impression of the Elven Race had dropped to its lowest point. Now, sleeping at the highest point of the Elven Homeland, above the Queen’s Palace, was clearly meant to spite those elves.

    “This little dragon girl is becoming more and more human-like.”

    Shien said with emotion.

    Although Yulin had always been intelligent, able to understand human language and respond to a certain extent, she wouldn’t have done such a human-like thing before.

    Recently, this black dragon of Atlus seemed to be becoming more and more human-like, not only roaring when seeing beautiful scenery, but also retaliating and deliberately provoking others when in a bad mood, much more lively than before.

    “Could she be about to transform into a human?”

    Shien used [Outer Awareness of Heaven’s Decree] to observe and found that the magic power within Yulin seemed to have changed somewhat.

    It wasn’t a matter of increasing or decreasing, but the way it operated seemed to have changed.

    In the past, Yulin’s magic power was abundant and strong, but it just “existed” within her body, like stored energy.

    But now, Yulin’s magic power, like that of a humanoid lifeform, wasn’t just stored, but also flowed and circulated according to a fixed pattern.

    Although it was still a bit crude, complicated, and unclear, Shien felt that if this continued, the magic power within this dragon would circulate like that of a human.

    Would that be when she transformed into a human and became a demon?

    “I’m actually a little excited about this.”

    Shien smiled slightly, deciding to “feed” this violent dragon girl more in the future.

    His magic power would definitely be very useful to her, whether it was absorbed to increase her strength or analyzed to learn the human way of manipulating magic power. Yulin definitely needed it.

    As long as he continued to provide magic power, Yulin might be able to shorten the time required for her transformation, or at least increase her level and strength.

    Anyway, Shien’s magic power was overflowing. Even if he used it, it would recover very quickly, so providing some to Yulin wasn’t a problem at all.

    “The rest depends on her.”

    After saying that, Shien left the window, glanced at the bed, thought for a moment, then decided not to lie down.

    “I’ll take a bath first.”

    Taking a bath every day and going to bed feeling refreshed had become a habit.

    Now, it was impossible for Shien to go to bed directly without taking a bath.

    “But where is the bathroom?”

    Shien scratched his head, walked around the tree house, but couldn’t find a bathroom or a bath.

    “I’ll go ask someone.”

    In the end, Shien left the tree house and went outside.

    …

    The tree house Shien and his group were staying in was very high, at least a hundred meters above the ground.

    The night air was a bit chilly, but there was no strong wind at this height, either because of the barrier around the Elven Homeland or some other magical mechanism.

    After leaving the tree house, Shien simply jumped down.

    Normally, people would take the vine bridges to get down from the tree houses.

    Unfortunately, although it looked romantic and magical, it was a bit time-consuming.

    If he was with everyone else, Shien wouldn’t mind taking his time, but since he was alone, he decided to just jump down.

    At this height, in his past life, if Shien dared to do this, he would definitely break both his legs, and that would be the best-case scenario.

    Now, without doing anything, Shien could easily negate the force of the fall, landing on the ground like a feather, both steadily and gracefully.

    Then, Shien started wandering around the Elven Homeland.

    His goal was to find an elf and ask about the bathroom.

    However…

    “Excuse me, Miss…”

    When Shien encountered an elven girl and tried to talk to her, before he could even finish his sentence, she ran away.

    Shien paused, then turned to another direction and found another passerby.

    “Excuse me, beautiful…”

    Shien spoke, but he startled her.

    “Don’t… don’t come any closer…!”

    The elf girl screamed, as if encountering a pervert in the middle of the night, and fled in a panic.

    Shien paused again, then changed his target.

    “Excuse me, Miss…”

    “Ahh!”

    “Excuse me, beautiful lady…”

    “Eek!”

    “…Excuse me, classmate?” (This is a more modern and informal way of addressing someone, usually used among students.)

    “Aaaaaah!”

    “Excuse me…”

    “A m-man…!”

    “…”

    “…”

    About ten minutes later, Shien stood on the street with an impassive face, looking at the elves scattering around him like he was a plague, and finally admitted one fact.

    Here, he was being blatantly ostracized.

    “I should just destroy this village…”

    Shien muttered.

    A voice immediately replied,

    “What terrible things are you saying?”

    Shien turned his head and looked behind him.

    There, an elven girl was staring intently at him, as if he was a dangerous person.

    Besides Carol, who else could it be?

    “So you’re here.”

    Shien said calmly, not surprised at all.

    “What do you think?” Carol replied calmly, not backing down. “With an unstable factor like you appearing in the village, how could I not monitor you?”

    “So?” Shien retorted, “You’re just watching me being treated unfairly in your village?”

    “This isn’t unfair.” Carol frowned. “All men receive this treatment in the Elven Homeland.”

    So, it was fair.

    …Did you think he would say that?

    Fair my ass!

  • Reborn to Stew Soup (GL) 114

    Chapter 114: Busy, Busy, Busy

    In her previous life, “Divorce, So Be It” had taken several episodes to gain a loyal audience, its popularity growing steadily. This time, airing on a popular channel with high viewership, it quickly attracted a large audience and generated buzz on Weibo after just two episodes.

    However, Weibo was mainly for young people. “Divorce, So Be It,” with its nostalgic and family-oriented themes, appealed more to middle-aged viewers. Although it generated some discussion on Weibo, it didn’t have the explosive virality of current idol dramas.

    Ji Junxin woke up and anxiously browsed Weibo, but she still didn’t repost anything. Mi Hongdou’s official Weibo account, which Mengguan was supposed to create, still hadn’t been set up, even after the drama’s premiere. Ji Junxin figured that Mengguan was also waiting, like her, waiting for the right moment to promote Mi Hongdou.

    Thinking this, she vaguely realized that she hadn’t fully detached from Miao Qianye. Her old self wouldn’t have overthought it, she would have just reposted it without considering the timing. In fact, she probably wouldn’t have even thought of promoting the drama…

    Ji Junxin didn’t realize that this change… was actually growth.

    Previously, after filming ended, she would just spend some time alone, not dwelling on the drama or contacting her co-stars, and she would naturally detach from the role. But this time, even after a month, she could still feel Miao Qianye’s influence, her calculating and cautious nature.

    It seemed that the immersion this time was deeper, she needed more time to recover, to truly say goodbye to Miao Qianye.

    Usually, after a drama ended, if she didn’t think about it, she would eventually forget. But this time was different. Although she hadn’t contacted Mi Hongdou, she thought of her often, especially during meals, when waking up, and before going to bed… almost all the time. And thinking of Mi Hongdou brought back memories of filming… She figured that was why she couldn’t detach from Miao Qianye.

    I can’t… contact her, can’t even think about her, for now! Ji Junxin decided.

    Then she picked up her phone and texted Mi Hongdou.

    Since I’ve decided not to contact her, I might as well send one last message before I start, she reasoned, having not received a reply to her previous message.

    Mi Hongdou, yawning, was in the chauffeured car on her way to Shudian. Yes, after a month and ten days, she was going back!

    [What are you doing?] Sender: Ji Junxin.

    Mi Hongdou’s heart pounded. Although it was just a five-character message, even shorter than the previous one, it felt much more… normal!

    Ji Junxin was lounging in bed, sleeping late, enjoying her time off. Although she loved acting, doing nothing was also great. As she waited for a reply, she figured Mi Hongdou was probably still asleep.

    But Mi Hongdou’s reply came quickly.

    [On my way to Shudian, “Divorce, So Be It 2” starts filming today.]

    Ji Junxin sat up abruptly.

    [Weren’t they waiting for the first season to air and generate buzz before starting the second?]

    They were… Mi Hongdou yawned, glanced at Yang Lianyi, who was sleeping soundly with an eye mask, and then at Bai Tang, who was dozing off. This sudden change in schedule surprised everyone.

    Ji Junxin sat cross-legged in bed, frowning.

    [They’re running out of time, it will clash with later projects.]

    Ji Junxin wasn’t a professional, she couldn’t judge the best timing for filming. But the point was, Mi Hongdou had left Jiang City, was on her way to Shudian.

    So, after a month and ten days in the same city, without even meeting, Mi Hongdou was leaving again!

    In “Divorce, So Be It 2,” Mi Hongdou was the female lead, carrying the entire drama, it wouldn’t be as easy as playing a supporting role. This kind of urban drama revolved around the main couple, so Mi Hongdou would probably be even busier than during “Imperial Secrets.” Ji Junxin figured that once she went back, she would be stuck on set, unless something happened.

    Leaving for months without even meeting! Mi Hongdou is the worst!

    Ji Junxin angrily got up, washed up, and ordered takeout. She had to have sticky rice balls today! And red bean pastries!

    By the time she finished eating, Mi Hongdou had already arrived in Shudian. Then she received Ji Junxin’s reply.

    [Good luck.]

    That period at the end… so frustrating! Couldn’t she have used an exclamation mark?!

    Mi Hongdou held her phone, hesitated, sighed, and decided not to reply.

    She frowned and went to prepare for the filming.

    Ji Junxin, full and satisfied, looked at the empty takeout containers, her mood slightly improved. Takeout, the taste was mediocre, but… at least the portions were large. When she couldn’t have Mi Hongdou’s cooking, quantity was the only comfort.

    Why am I thinking about Mi Hongdou again… She shook her head.

    Having not received any further replies, Ji Junxin felt it was time for a decision!

    She had to detach from the role… she didn’t want to be influenced by Miao Qianye and look at Mi Hongdou with those same eyes when they met again. She was Ji Junxin, not Miao Qianye. And Mi Hongdou… was Mi Hongdou, not the young Empress, not anyone else. They hadn’t shared Miao Qianye and the young Empress’s experiences, their sacrifices, their revenge. All that belonged to the characters. Ji Junxin and Mi Hongdou were friends in real life, although their shared experiences were limited, they had similar values, common interests, a mutual appreciation for each other’s acting, and a shared love for food. Ji Junxin hoped to detach from the role and interact with Mi Hongdou normally, not with such intensity.

    Ji Junxin’s hopes were beautiful, as if all her recent eagerness and intensity were solely due to Miao Qianye’s influence.

    A brief separation, for a better reunion!

    She took out her phone and deleted everything related to Mi Hongdou, including her number.

    No contact, no reminiscing, until she returned to normal. Of course, if Mi Hongdou contacted her, even if it was just a number on the screen, she would recognize it!

    So.

    Mi Hongdou immersed herself in the new drama, her days filled with filming. In her previous life, “Divorce, So Be It 2” had taken about six months to film. This time, they were given three and a half months. Needless to say, it was Qiao Rubai’s doing…

    Even having filmed it once before, this accelerated schedule was challenging. Fortunately, the male lead, although a newcomer, was a good actor. He had quickly risen to fame in her previous life, becoming a popular idol. So, despite the tight schedule, the long hours, they were still able to keep up with the filming, thanks to the leads’ dedication.

    Ji Junxin hadn’t texted again. Mi Hongdou often found herself typing messages, then deleting them.

    I’ll wait… until I’m stronger, more worthy.

    People had different values and perspectives. Mi Hongdou, when she first entered the industry, had become a fan of Ji Junxin. She had quickly become a promising newcomer, but she hadn’t tried to approach her idol. She had waited, working hard, building her career, until she felt she was good enough.

    Some people were just… sentimental. The more they liked someone, the more they wanted to be worthy of them.

    I like you so much, so I have to become a better version of myself, to meet you. I like you so much, so I’m willing to spend years getting closer to you, hoping that when you finally see me, you’ll see my worth, you’ll like me.

    That had been Mi Hongdou’s mindset in her previous life. And even after being reborn, her nature hadn’t changed. Although, thanks to Qiao Rubai, she had met Ji Junxin earlier and even gained her favor with her cooking, their time together during “Imperial Secrets” felt like a beautiful dream. Ji Junxin’s sudden departure, without even a proper goodbye, had been a blow, sending her back to her previous life’s waiting game.

    While Mi Hongdou focused on her work, Ji Junxin was trying to detach from her role, not even watching “Divorce, So Be It,” just asking Zhong Yin to repost it on Weibo when Mi Hongdou appeared.

    Mi Hongdou’s character appeared in episode 42. The day before, Yang Lianyi finally created an official Weibo account for her.

    The next day, when Mi Hongdou’s character appeared, Zhong Yin reposted the drama on Ji Junxin’s Weibo, tagging Mi Hongdou.

    [Recently discovered a great drama called “Divorce, So Be It,” check it out, everyone. The actress playing the daughter, Lin Qiao, Mi Hongdou, is very talented. Newcomer, fighting! @MiHongdou] Ji Junxin’s Weibo had over thirty million followers, while Mi Hongdou’s was brand new. With Ji Junxin’s repost, Mi Hongdou’s follower count skyrocketed.

    Millions of followers in just a few hours.

    Ji Junxin rarely used Weibo, mostly for promoting her own projects or Qiong Yu’s productions. This endorsement of a completely unrelated drama was unusual, and her fans were intrigued. Many, curious, clicked on Mi Hongdou’s tag.

    And then, their memories were jogged. Wasn’t this the little empress who made fried rice in that trailer Ji Junxin reposted? A good cook always garnered goodwill. And the fans who came from Ji Junxin’s Weibo were mostly loyal fans, it was natural for Mi Hongdou’s follower count to increase.

    Mi Hongdou’s Weibo account, created just the day before, had only one post, a generic greeting message. Now, the comments were flooding in.

    Most were from Ji Junxin’s fans, some remembering the fried rice and asking for recipes, others asking if she and Ji Junxin were friends, and why Ji Junxin had reposted her post.

    Many hadn’t even seen “Divorce, So Be It,” they were just there because of Ji Junxin.

    Yang Lianyi called and told Mi Hongdou to “hug Ji Junxin’s thigh,” or rather, to respond to Ji Junxin.

    Mi Hongdou looked at Ji Junxin’s Weibo post. The tone was formal, a generic endorsement of the drama and Mi Hongdou, without any personal touch. It didn’t seem like something Ji Junxin would write, more like a standard company post, similar to her previous promotional posts.

    But she still had to respond. Mi Hongdou reposted Ji Junxin’s Weibo and replied formally.

    [Thank you for the praise, I’ll continue to work hard!]

    She added a smiling emoticon at the end. Still very formal. She pressed send.

    Although Ji Junxin had decided to give herself time and space to detach, even deleting Mi Hongdou’s number, one couldn’t completely control their thoughts. She was just… trying her best.

    She had told herself not to watch “Divorce, So Be It,” even asking Zhong Yin to repost it on Weibo for her. But when Zhong Yin called to inform her that the post was up, Ji Junxin couldn’t resist watching the drama.

    Having watched the drama, checking Weibo… was also fine. Ji Junxin, thinking that one bite was as good as a feast, opened Weibo, saw Mi Hongdou’s new account… why hadn’t Zhong Yin or Mi Hongdou told her!

    She didn’t read the comments on her own post, but clicked on Mi Hongdou’s tag.

    And saw Mi Hongdou’s formal reply: [Thank you for the praise, I’ll continue to work hard!] Hmph! So formal! Not even a text message! I’m not playing with you anymore! Ji Junxin closed Weibo and started browsing takeout menus. She would order five or six bowls of red bean soup! It was early July, she wanted it iced, iced, iced! She would write it three times in the special instructions!

    Yes, it was early July, “Imperial Secrets” had wrapped two months ago, and “Divorce, So Be It 2” had been filming for over half a month.

    At Qiong Yu’s request, “Imperial Secrets” had been edited during filming. Although Director Pan hadn’t understood Qiao Rubai’s rush, he had cooperated. Since he filmed chronologically, it wasn’t difficult for the editing to keep up.

    By the time “Imperial Secrets” wrapped, most of the post-production for the estate scenes was already done.

    In early July, Mi Hongdou’s character in “Divorce, So Be It,” after just four episodes, was receiving positive reviews. And with the drama’s increasing popularity, her Weibo follower count also increased rapidly. And just then, the post-production for “Imperial Secrets” was completed, and they began the promotional campaign.

    It wasn’t until post-production was completely finished that Director Pan realized Qiao Rubai had been aiming for a summer release. He was stunned, just over a month for review and promotion, Qiao Rubai was really pushing it.

    And Qiao Rubai not only dared to think it, she also dared to do it.

    “Imperial Secrets” was scheduled for release at the end of August, catching the tail end of summer, perhaps even extending into October.

    With “Divorce, So Be It” airing, “Divorce, So Be It 2” filming, and the upcoming release of “Imperial Secrets,” along with the promotional campaign, Mi Hongdou, like a rising star, appeared on TV, in entertainment news, on Weibo, on posters… although the focus of these projects, except for the currently filming “Divorce, So Be It 2,” wasn’t on promoting her, she still garnered considerable attention.

    So, Mi Hongdou’s life was now defined by one word: “busy!” Busy filming, busy with interviews, busy dealing with jealous colleagues. Fortunately, Mengguan prioritized filming, only accepting essential interviews, otherwise, Mi Hongdou would have collapsed from exhaustion.

    The film industry wasn’t as over-the-top as it would be ten years later, with months of pre-release hype, endless appearances on entertainment news, TV shows, variety shows, press conferences everywhere… Mi Hongdou had initially thought Qiao Rubai would bring the future’s marketing tactics to the present and launch an explosive promotional campaign for “Imperial Secrets.” She had been prepared to sacrifice sleep and work around the clock.

    But… that didn’t happen.

    In early July, after post-production, they started a low-key promotional campaign for “Imperial Secrets.” In late July, after passing the review process, the campaign intensified, but it was still just trailers, posters, TV commercials, and magazine features. There were no press conferences. Mi Hongdou waited and waited, then couldn’t help but ask Yang Lianyi.

    Yang Lianyi told her to focus on filming and not worry about such trivial matters. Press conferences everywhere, how tiring and pointless, we’re not doing that! Mi Hongdou was speechless… she couldn’t tell her that’s exactly how it would be done ten years later.

    Not having to travel for promotions was a relief for Mi Hongdou, who was already sleep-deprived from filming. But… she wasn’t entirely happy. Firstly, she wouldn’t have a legitimate reason to see Ji Junxin. And secondly, Qiao Rubai had been avoiding her questions about the past, she also wanted to see Qiao Rubai!

    Unfortunately, having missed her earlier opportunities, Mi Hongdou was now trapped on set, unable to leave.

    Perhaps heaven heard her prayers. In mid-August, she finally had a chance to see both Ji Junxin and Qiao Rubai.

    Because… “Imperial Secrets” was premiering.

    Mi Hongdou hadn’t expected Qiao Rubai, with her future knowledge, to limit the promotional appearances to just the premiere.

    But it didn’t matter. After months of being stuck in Shudian, Mi Hongdou finally had a day off and returned to Jiang City.

    Since their Weibo exchange in early July, Mi Hongdou had only texted Ji Junxin twice. Both times, she initiated the conversation. Once, about Jiang Lingling’s increasingly successful restaurant, but Ji Junxin’s replies were unenthusiastic, so she stopped. The other time, about food, she had gone to a restaurant Ji Junxin liked and texted her about it, but… Ji Junxin’s replies were also lukewarm, so she dropped the topic.

    It seemed that if Ji Junxin didn’t even want to talk about food, then… there was nothing left to talk about.

    The two failed attempts made Mi Hongdou apprehensive about the upcoming premiere.

    Apprehensive, yet also expectant…

  • Reincarnated as a Holy Nun, I Refuse to Lose! v2c17

    Volume 2: Witch Kingdom Arc

    Chapter 17: Betrayal

    Doris looked at Luo Yuxi, her predatory gaze undisguised.

    “Little cutie, two choices: come back with me willingly, or I’ll take you back by force~”

    “Can I choose neither…?”

    Doris simply smiled, her crimson eyes gleaming with madness. Luo Yuxi quickly hid behind Yun Keke and Yu Keke. Although hiding behind lolis was embarrassing, it was better than being captured.

    “If you want to take big sister, you’ll have to go through me!”

    “If that’s what you want, it’ll just take a little longer~”

    [Unique Magic: Submersion]

    Doris attacked, and Yun Keke felt the familiar sensation of sinking into a dark quagmire, her senses dulled. But Doris, with her sharp combat instincts, also sensed Yu Keke’s attack from behind.

    “Little Yun!”

    “I know, leave the rest to me!”

    [Unique Magic: Burial]

    Yun Keke raised her hands, aiming at Doris. Yu Keke teleported a safe distance away. Doris, her senses blocked, was unaware of what was happening.

    “Big sister belongs to Little Yu and me! You can’t have her!”

    Yun Keke slammed her hands together, and a powerful force erupted, flattening the surrounding forest, even the cabin’s foundation was gone.

    “Did I get her…?”

    “Little Yun, watch out!”

    Yun Keke, seeing the flattened forest and sensing no trace of Doris, was about to relax when she heard Yu Keke’s warning. She shielded her chest with magic just as Doris appeared before her and punched her, the force of the blow sending shockwaves through her body.

    “Not bad, but I was aiming for a one-hit KO…”

    Yun Keke was sent flying, crashing into the ground. Her small body seemed fragile and helpless. Luo Yuxi, ignoring Ling Shuang, rushed over and used her divine power to protect Yun Keke.

    [Divine Art: Heal]

    “So… so much blood! Little Yun, don’t move!”

    “Her presence had vanished, why…?”

    Yun Keke struggled to her feet, looking at Doris in disbelief. They were both 2nd Order, but the difference in their power was overwhelming. Last time, she had needed the help of three bishops to fight Doris to a draw.

    “Nice magic, instantly compressing everything within a certain area. If I hadn’t dodged, I would be flat as a pancake~”

    Doris played with a strand of her hair, seemingly unfazed, as if the fight had been a mere warm-up.

    “I was going to kill you both, but I’ve changed my mind. I’ll take you alive~”

    As Doris spoke, a massive beam of light engulfed her, creating a huge crater in the forest. Yu Keke stood at the edge.

    [Super-Tier Light Magic: Holy Light Descent]

    “With such a wide range, she shouldn’t be able to—”

    “It’s rude to interrupt~”

    “!!!”

    Yu Keke turned and saw Doris standing behind her, less than ten meters away. The beam of light had a range of several kilometers, yet Doris had casually walked behind her.

    “How…?”

    “I just had to leave the area of effect before you activated the spell~”

    Doris walked towards Yu Keke, but as she took a step, she was bound by invisible chains. Yu Keke had set a trap.

    “Now I’ve got you, die…”

    [Unique Magic: Burial]

    “Not good…”

    Doris panicked as a square beam of light appeared beneath her, the space around her compressing. Yu Keke quickly retreated. Doris’s clothes were torn, even her stockings were ripped.

    “Taking you alive will be more troublesome than I thought…”

    Doris’s aura turned blood red, as if the entire space was being dyed. Yun Keke, healed by Luo Yuxi, had recovered and rushed to Yu Keke’s side.

    “I’ll cripple your magic circuits and tie you to a pole, making you watch as I enjoy Luo Yuxi’s body~”

    “Arrogant witch…”

    A red domain expanded from Doris, like a drop of ink in water, while Yun Keke and Yu Keke, holding hands, their white and purple figures like flowers in a sea of blood, stood their ground.

    “The Twin Witches are indeed troublesome together, but I’m not afraid~”

    Yun Keke and Yu Keke exchanged glances, their magic power surging, pushing back against the red domain. Doris realized she couldn’t win against both of them and turned to the black-robed witch.

    “Envy, how long are you going to watch?!”

    Her words heightened the tension. Yun Keke and Yu Keke held each other’s hands tighter. Doris was already difficult enough, let alone another Deadly Sin Witch.

    “Stop watching, just hold one of them back…”

    Doris thought the black-robed girl was finally going to help, and she turned to the lolis, her arrogance returning.

    “Once I capture you two, I’ll think of a fitting punishment. Making you watch as your most precious thing is destroyed seems like a good start~”

    Doris gathered her magic power. Yun Keke and Yu Keke were on guard. Suddenly, a gasp echoed through the air. Doris looked down in disbelief at the hand piercing her chest from behind.

    “Envy… you…”

  • Reincarnated as a Holy Nun, I Refuse to Lose! v2c16

    Volume 2: Witch Kingdom Arc

    Chapter 16: Encountering a Strong Enemy Again

    Yun Keke flew through the forest, searching, until she spotted a faint magical barrier. She reached out, and the barrier opened slightly.

    “Finally found it. Hopefully, Luo Yuxi’s sister won’t hate me after all this time. We’ll be family soon…”

    Yun Keke muttered, approaching the simple wooden cabin. Although plainly decorated, it exuded a sense of peace.

    “After I find Mom, I’ll bring big sister, Mom, and Little Yu to live here. A happy family of four~”

    She opened the door, then paused, sensing an unfamiliar yet familiar aura. A bad premonition washed over her.

    “No! Has this place been discovered by another witch?!”

    Yun Keke panicked. If other witches found this place, it would be a disaster. Ling Shuang was still tied up, wearing her nun’s habit. If other witches found her and mistook her for a nun… Yun Keke shuddered at the thought.

    “Big sister will definitely hate me if I offend her sister too…”

    Yun Keke rushed inside. The cabin was quiet, and a sense of dread filled her. The bed was empty.

    “I lost big sister’s sister!”

    Yun Keke was frantic. Although she had tied up Ling Shuang for her safety, she was still responsible.

    “How am I going to explain this to big sister? I came to rescue someone, and now I’ve lost another…”

    “Are you looking for her~?”

    “Huh?”

    Yun Keke turned sharply and saw a white-haired girl emerge from the shadows. Recognizing her, she instantly entered battle mode.

    “Wh-Why are you here…?”

    “It seems she’s indeed related to you~”

    A bound and unconscious Ling Shuang lay on the floor. It was Doris, the Wrath Witch, who had wanted to keep Luo Yuxi captive. Yun Keke didn’t understand how she had found this place.

    “After that little cutie disappeared, I’ve been searching for her. I didn’t expect to find such a cozy little cabin in the forest~”

    Doris sat on the bed, examining the simple decor. Yun Keke stared at Ling Shuang. Facing another 2nd Order witch, rescuing Ling Shuang without a fight was impossible.

    “Yes, this place is quite hidden. The only flaw is the magic barrier in such a remote location~”

    “What are you trying to say…?”

    “My pink-haired little cutie is with you, isn’t she? Hand her over.”

    “I don’t know what you’re talking about…”

    Doris stepped on Ling Shuang, who cried out in pain. Yun Keke didn’t dare move. If Ling Shuang was hurt, she wouldn’t be able to face Luo Yuxi.

    “I see there’s no point in talking. Coming to the Witch Kingdom for a rescue mission while wearing a nun’s habit? Such a ridiculous outfit…”

    Doris pressed her foot down harder. Ling Shuang woke up and looked at Doris.

    “Yo, you’re awake~”

    “You… bastard…”

    “So weak, yet you dare provoke someone stronger than you? Not very wise…”

    Yun Keke knew she couldn’t wait any longer. Even if she couldn’t defeat Doris, she could at least buy Ling Shuang some time to escape.

    “I wouldn’t move if I were you~”

    A black mist appeared. Yun Keke felt a chill. It was another 2nd Order witch. Even she couldn’t fight two at once.

    “Envy, you’ve been hiding, what are you up to…?”

    “…”

    “Whatever, just help me capture her. I need to find out where my little cutie is~”

    Doris’s eyes glowed red, her white hair fluttering, a murderous aura filling the room.

    “Let the carnage begin~”

    [Unique Magic: Full Enhancement]

    Doris charged, and the small cabin exploded, only the foundation remaining.

    “That was my dream house for a peaceful life with big sister! How dare you!”

    [Unique Magic: Submersion!]

    Yun Keke, enraged, attacked Doris, despite the difference in their power.

    [Divine Art: Flash]

    A golden light filled the forest. Doris, blinded, retreated.

    “So many surprises today~”

    Doris rubbed her eyes and saw that Ling Shuang had been rescued. Seeing her beloved pink-haired figure, Doris’s mouth went dry. She had only been separated from Luo Yuxi for a day, yet her possessiveness was overwhelming.

    “Finally, I’ve arrived! A hero always appears at the crucial moment! No matter who the enemy is, I’ll crush them!”

    Luo Yuxi, striking a heroic pose, stood before Yun Keke, holding Ling Shuang in a princess carry.

    “Little cutie~”

    “Uh…”

    As the light faded, Luo Yuxi saw the familiar silver hair, red eyes, and witch’s hat. She rubbed her eyes in disbelief.

    “Damn it, it’s her! I should have looked closer before coming down, then Yu Keke could have ambushed her…”

    Luo Yuxi looked at the blushing Doris, wanting nothing more than to escape. She couldn’t defeat a 4th Order witch, let alone a 2nd Order one. And the black-robed witch beside her, although familiar, was also clearly a 2nd Order.

    “I only came to show off after sensing Yun Keke’s distress signal, but…”

    Seeing Doris’s predatory gaze, Luo Yuxi knew reasoning was futile.

    “You guys fight, I’ll just be going…”

    “You’re not going anywhere~”

    …

  • The Grotesque Miss’s End Story v2c59

    Chapter Fifty-Nine: The Value of Sacrifice

    The next morning.

    Luo Ling, arriving at the Wellington office as usual, encountered a rare visitor.

    Lu Fangling, the office head, and Lu Manqing’s mother.

    As the team was choosing their commissions, Lu Fangling approached them with a troubled expression. “Miss Luo Ling.”

    “Hmm?” Luo Ling turned around, surprised. “Grandma Lu, long time no see.”

    “Mom, what are you doing here?” Lu Manqing asked, peeking out. “Are you giving us a hidden mission?”

    Lu Fangling ignored her daughter’s usual flippancy, looking at Luo Ling and delivering shocking news.

    “Last night, Ms. Fiona disappeared.”

    “Hmm?”

    Luo Ling paused, her expression turning grim.

    She knew Fiona had been investigating the past incident, her movements repeatedly captured by her intelligence network.

    Of course, Fiona had been cautious. With her status and strength, and Luo Ling’s help in concealing her tracks, it was unlikely anyone else had noticed.

    Unless…

    There was something Luo Ling didn’t know.

    Eve tugged at Luo Ling’s clothes, whispering curiously,

    “Who is this Ms. Fiona? Why is Head Lu personally informing you?”

    “Huh? Eve, you… don’t know her?”

    Luo Ling’s expression turned strange. “Aunt Fiona is one of the Fate Society’s constellations. Didn’t you meet her when she came to see me before?”

    “Really? I don’t remember…”

    Eve scratched her head, then slapped Luo Ling’s back. “You must be mistaken. There are no women among the Fate Society’s two constellations, they’re both men.”

    “…What?”

    Luo Ling paused, glancing at her teammates.

    They all looked confused, even Elsa, who whispered nervously, “Miss Luo Ling, where did you meet another ‘aunt’…”

    “That’s the problem, Specialist Luo Ling.”

    Lu Manqing’s voice was grave. “Most people have lost their memories of Ms. Fiona. She has been ‘forgotten.’

    “Fortunately, you still remember.”

    Luo Ling remained silent for a moment, then asked, “Grandma Lu, you didn’t come here just to tell me this, did you?”

    “Of course not. The Company directors are very concerned. After all, she’s a peak expert capable of wielding an Authority. Her safety isn’t just a matter for the Fate Society, but for all of humanity.”

    Lu Fangling said gravely, “You have a close relationship with Ms. Fiona. The directors want to know if you know her whereabouts, or if you’ve met her recently.”

    Luo Ling felt Elsa’s grip on her arm tighten slightly when Lu Fangling mentioned their “close relationship.”

    “I don’t know.” Luo Ling shook her head. “I’ve been on missions with the… team. I haven’t seen Aunt Fiona.”

    She still couldn’t bring herself to say that ridiculous team name…

    Especially since it was Lu Fangling’s daughter who had chosen it.

    “Telling me is useless,” Lu Fangling sighed. “I’ll be blunt. The directors want to see you.”

    Luo Ling’s heart sank. She suspected that Fiona’s disappearance was related to the Company directors.

    Had Fiona uncovered something unfavorable to the Company or the directors during her investigation?

    But if so, why bother informing her? They could have simply silenced Fiona…

    Several thoughts flashed through Luo Ling’s mind, but she quickly replied, “Should I go to headquarters now?”

    “No need, the directors are waiting for you in the meeting room.” Lu Fangling stepped aside.

    “Thank you, I understand.”

    Luo Ling nodded, giving Elsa a reassuring look before heading towards the meeting room.

    As she passed Lu Fangling, she felt a faint breeze carrying a whispered message.

    It was Lu Fangling’s voice.

    “I’m sorry, Miss Luo Ling. Fiona… is likely dead. My condolences.”

    Luo Ling’s eyes narrowed slightly, hearing the barely audible words.

    But she quickly suppressed her emotions, continuing towards the meeting room, her steps slightly hurried, as if she hadn’t heard anything.

    …….

    After a knock, a cold voice echoed from within the meeting room.

    “Enter.”

    Luo Ling entered, her previous conflicted expression replaced by her usual calmness.

    She had been to Wellington’s highest-level meeting room once before, for the joint interview with the three factions, with Lu Fangling representing the Company, Fiona representing the Fate Society, and Cheng Jianming representing the Torchbearers.

    It had only been a few months, yet so much had changed.

    Even Aunt Fiona might be…

    “Greetings, Directors.”

    Luo Ling bowed slightly.

    Only one figure was present in the meeting room, the woman from the cabin, who had been sitting on the sofa.

    She was still dressed in luxurious furs, her youthful face framed by old-fashioned spectacles with a chain.

    “There’s no need for formalities, relax.”

    The woman gestured for Luo Ling to sit, then asked directly,

    “Miss Luo Ling, have you been in contact with Ms. Fiona in the past month? This is very important, it might help us find her.”

    She stared intently at Luo Ling, her beautiful eyes filled with urgency and concern.

    “I… haven’t.”

    Luo Ling shook her head, a hint of sadness in her usually indifferent expression.

    This wasn’t an act, but suppressed emotion.

    Upon hearing the news from Lu Fangling, Luo Ling had immediately tried to contact the spores she had planted in the Victoria Opera House.

    But they were gone, she could no longer sense them.

    Some unknown power had annihilated them without a trace.

    This could only mean… the perpetrator was incredibly powerful. Although she didn’t want to believe it, Grandma Lu’s whispered words were likely true.

    Who had killed Aunt Fiona?

    …Anyone was possible.

    But at this moment, Luo Ling could only express a hint of sadness, powerless to act.

    The woman studied Luo Ling for a moment, then said,

    “Miss Luo Ling, don’t worry too much, Ms. Fiona is merely missing. With her strength, few in Victoria could kill her… even among the Grotesque factions, it would require a top-tier Agent.”

    “I… understand. Thank you, Director.”

    Luo Ling nodded, suppressing her emotions.

    “Did you tell her about our previous conversation?”

    The woman asked abruptly.

    Luo Ling felt her voice escape her control, answering with her first thought.

    “No.”

    “…Very good, Miss Luo Ling, you’ve kept your promise.”

    A strange expression flickered in the woman’s eyes as she nodded slightly.

    “However, I must remind you, some knowledge is poison, knowing too much isn’t always a good thing. Ignorance can be a blessing… I believe you understand.”

    Meaning, their previous conversation was for Luo Ling’s ears only. Revealing it… could be dangerous.

    So, had the Company directors killed Aunt Fiona because of this?

    But the directors had told her without any restrictions, likely anticipating that she might reveal it to others. They wouldn’t resort to killing a high-order Awakened One capable of wielding an Authority just for that.

    Besides, if that were the case, there would have been no need to ask her that question.

    Luo Ling knew she was now inevitably caught in Victoria’s brewing storm, Aunt Fiona perhaps the first casualty.

    “I understand.” Luo Ling nodded, then hesitated. “If you have any news about Aunt Fiona, please inform me immediately.”

    “Of course, Miss Luo Ling.” The woman nodded, her form gradually fading. “If you have anything else to tell us, just come to headquarters.

    “Farewell.”

    The woman’s shadow vanished completely, but Luo Ling remained there, her expression indifferent.

    A moment later, a faint white strand of hair fell from her head, dissipating into nothingness.

    The sealed memory returned, and a wave of guilt washed over her, tears welling up in her eyes.

    “Perhaps it’s because I told Aunt Fiona the truth that she…”

    Before entering the meeting room, Luo Ling had anticipated a memory probe, sealing that part of her memory within a strand of hair.

    No matter what methods the directors employed, they would only find that she hadn’t contacted Fiona recently.

    Only now, recalling everything, and considering the woman’s behavior, did Luo Ling understand the likely reason for Fiona’s demise.

    But perhaps… she wasn’t dead yet.

    The Company directors’ behavior was unusual, the situation still unclear.

    Leaving the meeting room, Luo Ling suppressed her grief.

    At the same time, her intelligence network throughout Victoria sprang into action, searching for any clues.

    “At least… I have to see Aunt Fiona again, even if it’s just her body.”

    …….

    Within the cabin, the woman’s figure reappeared, the elderly man and the young man waiting for her.

    However, they both looked pale and weakened, seemingly injured, which was why they hadn’t accompanied her to meet Luo Ling.

    “She knows almost nothing, and likely… hasn’t revealed anything about the Taboo disaster.” The woman said concisely.

    “Heh… not as I expected.” The elderly man said slowly. “However, even if that girl is a blabbermouth, revealing it to Fiona wouldn’t matter. What I’m worried about is…”

    His cloudy gaze sharpened. “Those who shouldn’t know, know more than just that.”

    The reason they had revealed the Taboo disaster to Luo Ling was because it wasn’t a complete secret. The Harbingers and several other Awakened Ones involved were aware of it.

    But…

    If someone had discovered other secrets, combined with this information and their knowledge of Victoria, they might have stumbled upon the closely guarded secret of the Company’s “old man” and the Harbingers’ Philosopher.

    The old man and Philosopher had jointly erected a barrier throughout Victoria, at great cost, to protect or obtain the same secret.

    If anyone touched upon this secret, even just a fleeting thought, they would be instantly detected.

    …Clearly, Fiona had touched upon this secret.

    Therefore, she had to die.

    Although… Fiona’s current status was technically “missing.”

    After detecting the barrier’s activation last night, the old man and the young man had immediately acted.

    However, killing a peak expert so hastily required a heavy price, hence their current injuries.

    But instead of Fiona’s death, they had only received news of her disappearance.

    “The Harbingers also acted.”

    That was the only conclusion they could reach.

    Philosopher was also monitoring the secret, but the old man didn’t know his intentions. Perhaps he also wanted to kill Fiona, or perhaps… he wanted to obtain more information from her.

    The former was fine, as the directors also wanted her dead, but the latter was unfavorable to the Company.

    Lacking any leads, the Company directors could only try to inquire with Luo Ling, Fiona’s closest acquaintance, hoping to deduce how she had learned about the taboo secret.

    They weren’t sure how much Luo Ling knew about the past incident, or whether it was a fragmented piece of information from her that had led Fiona to the taboo secret.

    The result was nothing. Luo Ling claimed to know nothing, the woman’s ability ineffective.

    This matter couldn’t be left unresolved. If this secret were revealed, the entire Company would face a catastrophic disaster.

    …Or rather, Company headquarters.

    The Company in Victoria consisted of sixteen offices, with the London office as its headquarters, controlling all other offices and branches in various Boundaries.

    But originally… these offices hadn’t all belonged to the Company, but various Awakened factions, gradually merging into the current Company.

    The same applied to the branches in other Boundaries.

    The Company was essentially an alliance of Awakened organizations, though this alliance was tightly controlled and heavily reliant on the three directors.

    If this secret were revealed, the consequences for the directors would be devastating, a fact even the Harbingers understood, though they hadn’t learned the secret yet.

    Whether Fiona, dead or alive, had revealed it…

    The three directors’ expressions were filled with unease.

    “Cough, cough… let’s begin early. We can’t wait any longer.” The old man coughed, wiping the blood from his lips.

    “But we’re not ready yet.” The young man frowned, his injuries no less severe than the old man’s, though his Myriad path abilities alleviated the pain.

    “Just a few more sacrifices,” the old man said indifferently. “If we wait any longer, until the Harbingers make their move, we’ll all be dead.

    “We have to prepare for the worst. If the Harbingers obtain this secret… heh, they’ll learn even more, their capabilities increasing significantly.

    “Remember how the Harbingers obtained the ritual for stealing Grotesqueries’ Authorities? Wasn’t it thanks to… us?”

    The atmosphere in the cabin turned grim.

    His meaning was clear. The ritual had been leaked by one of them, the traitor among the three directors.

    Who was Historian?

    Even the directors didn’t have a definitive answer.

    Even the old man could only say he was the least likely candidate, but he couldn’t rule it out completely.

    One thing was certain: Historian would never allow either side to gain absolute dominance, wouldn’t reveal the secret in a matter of fundamental importance.

    However, what no one expected was that…

    Not only the Harbingers, but also the Company directors possessed the ritual for stealing Authorities.

    In fact, the Harbingers’ ritual was merely a crude imitation.

    “By the way, just kill her. Remember to extract her soul. We need her to answer some questions, there might be unexpected gains.” The old man said casually, as if suggesting something trivial.

    The directors were also concerned about the Grotesquery capable of annihilating Boundaries.

    As long as this Grotesquery remained hidden, the Company’s most powerful weapon, the ability to forcibly trigger Boundary collapses, would be unusable.

    With Fiona still alive, they had hesitated to kill Luo Ling and search her soul. They could wait.

    But now, the old man had lost his patience. They needed answers, and they needed them now.

    “That’s not a problem. Let’s add her team to the list of sacrifices, a small contribution to humanity. But… who will do it?” The young man pondered.

    “Cheng Jianming of the Torchbearers will do. A bloodied knife is always more effective.”

    The woman shrugged indifferently. “However, let’s spare the two second-generation members. Linna’s death caused enough trouble already.”

    “Hmm… there’s still a high-order Awakened One among them, enough to activate one of the ritual’s focal points.” The young man nodded.

    “Let’s do that.”

    The old man stared into the fire, finalizing their decision.

    It was just the sacrifice of a few insignificant specialists.

    They had made similar decisions countless times.

    …All for the sake of humanity’s uncertain future.