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  • Friend(GL) 104

    Chapter 104: Changes

    Wu Xiulian stood outside and said, “Sister, let me help you carry that.”

    She took the thermos from Yu Qiao’s hand. Yu Qiao looked down and asked, “You just agree to her being with someone like that?”

    Wu Xiulian looked up and asked, “Like what? Dating Dr. Zhou?”

    Hearing this, Yu Qiao frowned, feeling a surge of discomfort. Wu Xiulian continued, “Actually, my sister and brother-in-law weren’t happy about it either at first, but Dr. Zhou came to Yuhai a while ago, visited our home, she convinced my sister.”

    Yu Qiao looked at her: “Convinced her how?”

    “She said that suitability is the most important thing in a relationship.” Wu Xiulian said, “You keep setting all these conditions for her, wanting her to find someone rich, someone who will treat her well, someone who will ensure she never suffers again, but will that make her happy? Will that bring her happiness? Then shouldn’t everyone just find someone better off than themselves?”

    Yu Qiao said, “Their circumstances aren’t unsuitable.”

    “It’s the same principle.” Wu Xiulian said, “Sexual orientation is also a form of suitability.”

    “I don’t understand those principles.” Yu Qiao said, “I just want Xiao Tian to be happy, she’s suffered enough with me, I don’t want her to go through the same thing again.”

    Wu Xiulian said, “She’s happy with Xu Xu, maybe this is the ‘suitability’ she’s looking for.”

    Yu Qiao didn’t reply. Wu Xiulian entered the ward, carrying the thermos. Zhou Tianzui called out, “Aunt.”

    She was lying in bed, unable to sit up due to the surgery, although the knife hadn’t penetrated deeply, she still needed to rest. Wu Xiulian said, “Don’t move, look at the two of you, Xu Xu, you might as well just move your bed into Dr. Zhou’s room.”

    You Ruxu said, “No need.”

    Zhou Tianzui chuckled, “It’s not a bad idea.”

    What “not a bad idea,” they weren’t even on the same floor. You Ruxu wanted to laugh, but she couldn’t, her heart still pounding with the lingering fear from last night, gripping her chest, a wave of nausea.

    Wu Xiulian said, “Then I’ll go make lunch, you two can eat here.”

    You Ruxu nodded.

    After Wu Xiulian left, Yu Qiao entered the ward. The atmosphere instantly became tense. Zhou Tianzui called out, “Mom.”

    Yu Qiao walked over to her bedside.

    Zhou Tianzui said, “Sorry for making you worry.”

    “If you don’t want me to worry, then don’t do such things again.” Yu Qiao’s voice was filled with concern despite her words, “Does your wound still hurt?”

    Zhou Tianzui shook her head: “It’s not deep.”

    “Not deep? I saw the video.” Yu Qiao said, “You’re so reckless, why didn’t you call the police first?”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “There wasn’t time.”

    She looked at You Ruxu.

    Remembering that night.

    She fell silent.

    Yu Qiao, not noticing her silence, continued, “Thankfully, it wasn’t deep, you were just on duty, how could such a thing happen…”

    Just then, there was a commotion at the door. Zhou Tianzui looked up and saw Zhao Mingqi, He Wei, Lin Luo, and the director walk in. Lin Luo’s eyes were red, “Dr. Zhou, are you okay?”

    He Wei’s face was also pale. Although she usually found Zhou Tianzui intimidating, she had learned a lot from her. During her previous internships, because of her background, no one dared to criticize her, which made her arrogant and spoiled. Her mother even said she was a completely different person after being mentored by Zhou Tianzui for a few months. She both loved and feared Zhou Tianzui.

    Zhao Mingqi was the most remorseful.

    He said, “It’s all my fault, if I hadn’t switched shifts with you last night, this wouldn’t have happened.”

    “Then that baby would have been lost.” Zhou Tianzui smiled faintly, “It’s already happened, there’s no point blaming yourself, I won’t be able to work for the next few days, I’ll have to trouble you all.”

    The director also said, “Just focus on recovering, don’t worry about anything else.”

    “The city officials came this morning, they’re applying for a reward for you, and the TV station will be sending people over this afternoon, see if you have the energy for an interview, I can reschedule it if you’re too tired.”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m fine, this afternoon is fine.”

    The director nodded.

    Fu Shushu, looking at her, awkwardly placed a basket of fruit on the bedside table, “A small token of concern from everyone.”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m more popular than I thought.”

    Anyone else saying that would be fine, but coming from her, everyone wanted to laugh. He Wei’s face was red, a mixture of tears and laughter. Zhou Tianzui called out, “He Wei.”

    He Wei, startled, looked at her.

    Zhou Tianzui said, “Work with Dr. Fu for now.”

    He Wei agreed.

    They asked about You Ruxu’s condition. Her injuries were more serious than Zhou Tianzui’s, but she had rested for a few days and was recovering well, looking much better now.

    “Call me if you need anything.” The director said to Zhou Tianzui, “We’ll be going now.”

    Zhou Tianzui nodded.

    They had just left when another group arrived.

    They were patients from the maternity ward, several mothers holding their babies. The patient from bed sixty-two was still resting, her mother holding the newborn baby, saying, “This is Dr. Zhou, our lifesaver!”

    “Dr. Zhou, thank you so much for last night.”

    “Dr. Zhou, we bought you some fruit, please take care of yourself.”

    “Dr. Zhou, we haven’t named our baby yet, could you please give us some suggestions?”

    Zhou Tianzui was speechless.

    Finally, the nurses intervened, saying she had just woken up and shouldn’t have too many visitors. They reluctantly left, but soon after, flowers and fruit baskets arrived, sent by anonymous well-wishers, all for Zhou Tianzui.

    Zhou Tianzui said, “Return them.”

    The nurse looked troubled, “They’ve already been signed for, we can’t return them.”

    You Ruxu, sitting by her bedside, smiled faintly, hearing this. Zhou Tianzui turned to her, “What’s so funny?”

    “We’ll send them to your ward later.”

    You Ruxu said, “They’re for you.”

    Zhou Tianzui said, “I can’t possibly eat all of this.”

    Having become a hero overnight, Zhou Tianzui was showered with gifts and attention. When Wu Xiulian arrived with lunch, she was stunned, looking at the flowers and fruit baskets filling the room, “What’s all this?”

    You Ruxu smiled.

    Yu Qiao, seeing her there, didn’t object or welcome her, just maintained a neutral expression, watching their interaction, then, unable to bear it any longer, excused herself, saying she was going home to pack some things. So, only the three of them had lunch together.

    Wu Xiulian said, “I heard people talking about Dr. Zhou on my way here, this incident has become quite a big deal.”

    It was mainly because it happened late at night, and the news spread quickly. By the time the authorities tried to contain it, it was too late. The First Affiliated Hospital was well-known, and Zhou Tianzui wasn’t a newcomer, many people knew her, everyone posting about it on their social media, the story quickly trending.

    The missing baby case from the maternity hospital was still under investigation, with little information released. People were more focused on the Fengyuan case, but now, this incident had overshadowed even that.

    You Ruxu said, “Fengyuan is fanning the flames.”

    Wu Xiulian looked at her, “Fengyuan?”

    You Ruxu said, “They’re hoping for a big news story to distract everyone, the bigger the better, to bury their negative press.”

    So, Zhou Tianzui’s incident, what should have been a minor event, had become a major distraction. Wu Xiulian said, “That makes sense.”

    You Ruxu said, “We should contact the city officials, ask them to suppress the news.”

    Zhou Tianzui looked at her and nodded, “I’ll talk to the director.”

    You Ruxu nodded and continued eating.

    After lunch, people from the TV station arrived. Chen Xiang, with a new reporter, was almost in tears seeing You Ruxu, “Teacher You!”

    You Ruxu said, “You’re here.”

    “The station has been calling for you all morning.” Chen Xiang said, “You have no idea how much I wanted to see you!” Noticing Zhou Tianzui’s gaze, she quickly added, “And Dr. Zhou!”

    “Dr. Zhou, you’re amazing!” She gave a thumbs-up. “We’re so grateful to you, you’re a hero!”

    Zhou Tianzui, looking at Chen Xiang’s hand on You Ruxu’s shoulder, asked, “Want some fruit?”

    Chen Xiang quickly waved her hand, “No, thank you, you’re welcome.”

    You Ruxu moved slightly to make space for the interview. Chen Xiang, beside her, whispered, “Teacher You, is your leg better now? When can you be discharged?”

    You Ruxu said, “Soon, but I can’t walk yet.”

    “Oh…” Chen Xiang sounded disappointed. “Then you won’t be back at the station before the New Year.”

    You Ruxu glanced at Zhou Tianzui, hearing this.

    Zhou Tianzui’s gaze met hers.

    You Ruxu smiled.

    Zhou Tianzui paused for a moment, then continued with the interview. Chen Xiang sat beside You Ruxu, “Fengyuan is also under investigation, the boss is super busy, we have two new team members, they wanted to visit you, but they’re too busy, the boss said they’ll come when you’re discharged.”

    You Ruxu said, “No need to worry about me.”

    “How can we not?” Chen Xiang said, “You have no idea how much you contributed to the Fengyuan story!” She gave a thumbs-up, “Just like our Dr. Zhou, you’re both heroes!”

    You Ruxu pursed her lips.

    The interview was short, considerate of Zhou Tianzui’s condition. The questions were brief. After the TV station interview, there were supposed to be other media outlets, but Zhou Tianzui declined them all and even requested a different ward.

    Suddenly, it was quiet again. Yu Qiao came to the hospital in the afternoon, carrying two bags, accompanied by several women who had come to visit Zhou Tianzui. They were chatting as they walked, “Our Xiao Tian is a celebrity now!”

    Yu Qiao said, “What celebrity, as long as she’s okay, that’s all that matters.”

    “That’s true.” The woman in red beside her said, “I heard Xiao Tian’s still single, I have a relative…”

    You Ruxu was waiting for Yu Qiao in the lobby, wanting to take her to the new ward, figuring she wouldn’t know where it was. Seeing Yu Qiao, she wheeled herself over and heard her say, “Who said she’s single? Our Xiao Tian has a partner.”

    The other women exclaimed, “She has a partner?”

    “Since when?”

    Yu Qiao walked towards them, and there, right in front of her, was You Ruxu.

    Their eyes met.

    You Ruxu said, “Auntie, I’m here to take you to your daughter.”

    “This is that reporter, isn’t she?” One of the women said, “I’ve seen her on TV, Xiao Tian has such impressive friends!”

    Yu Qiao’s expression softened, “Let’s go inside.”

    She pushed You Ruxu’s wheelchair.

    You Ruxu smiled faintly.

    Inside the ward, Zhou Tianzui blinked, surprised. She had changed wards for some peace and quiet, never expecting these aunties to come as well. The ward became lively again. Yu Qiao served them fruit, and the aunties, after a few more words of concern for Zhou Tianzui, tactfully excused themselves. Yu Qiao saw them to the elevator, You Ruxu watching them leave, a smile playing on her lips.

    Zhou Tianzui said, “What are you smiling about?”

    You Ruxu started to say, “Auntie…” But her phone rang. She took it out, it was Chen Xiang, “I need to take this call.”

    Zhou Tianzui looked at her.

    You Ruxu smiled faintly, her voice gentle, “Chen Xiang?”

    Chen Xiang said, “Teacher You, can I ask you something?”

    You Ruxu said, “What is it?”

    Chen Xiang said, “Dr. Zhou’s father, was his name Zhou Qiming?”

    You Ruxu’s lips pressed into a thin line, her face paling slightly.

  • After Failing to Find Immortality 210

    Chapter 210: A Captivating Beauty

    A while later…

    “This is… incredible!”

    Lin Tianlu looked down at the crimson robe he was wearing, his face filled with astonishment.

    In just a few minutes, he had watched as the Fifth Elder effortlessly wove and sewed the wedding robe. It fit perfectly, the fabric smooth and cool against his skin, like flowing jade.

    The robe was embroidered with a coiling dragon, its scales shimmering, intricate patterns adorning the sleeves and collar, trimmed with gold, against a black background, a perfect blend of luxury and understated elegance.

    And most importantly…

    He could sense a flow of Yin energy and a warm current of spiritual energy within the fabric, enveloping him like a protective shield. This was no ordinary garment. Its material was incredibly durable, probably resistant even to swords and blades.

    “This weaving technique is truly remarkable.”

    Lin Tianlu couldn’t help but sigh in admiration.

    Even master craftsmen would be in awe of such skill.

    “Master Lin, the Azure Fox’s robe is ready. You can come out now.”

    “I’ll be right there.”

    He quickly gathered his discarded clothes and walked out of the flower bed.

    But as he returned to the courtyard, he stopped abruptly, his eyes wide with surprise.

    “…”

    Yun Yue turned to face him, her hair flowing like a starry river, her exquisite wedding robe like a blooming flower, the delicate fabric swirling around her.

    Her beauty was breathtaking, ethereal and captivating, her every movement graceful and alluring, despite the robe concealing her body. Under the moonlight, she looked like a celestial maiden, and even Lin Tianlu was mesmerized.

    Sensing his gaze, Yun Yue bit her lip, her heart fluttering, a blush creeping onto her cheeks, her fluffy tails swaying nervously.

    “It seems you’re satisfied with the wedding robe, Master Lin.”

    The Fifth Elder’s soft chuckle broke the silence.

    Lin Tianlu quickly averted his gaze and bowed respectfully. “Thank you for this gift, Fifth Elder. It’s truly exquisite and valuable!”

    Yun Yue also curtsied, her head bowed in gratitude.

    “As long as you like it.”

    The Fifth Elder waved her hand, and two more wedding robes, similar in style, appeared, which she offered to them with a smile. “I made two extra sets, adjusting the sizes slightly. Perhaps you’ll find a use for them in the future.”

    Lin Tianlu’s lips twitched.

    These extra robes…

    “Fifth Elder, I’ll keep these.”

    Yun Yue took the robes, her smile calm and gentle, her earlier shyness gone. “It wouldn’t be appropriate for Tianlu to carry women’s clothing. I’ll give them to the other girls when the time comes.”

    “You’re truly fortunate to have the Azure Fox by your side, Master Lin.”

    “You flatter me.”

    Yun Yue smiled softly.

    She glanced at Lin Tianlu, now dressed in his wedding robe, his posture straight and tall, and couldn’t help but sigh in admiration. “Master, you look so… handsome.”

    “Indeed,” the Fifth Elder agreed with a smile. “Master Lin’s features are truly striking. And his physique is well-proportioned, deceptively slender yet strong and sturdy. He’s a handsome man, and in this robe, he’s truly captivating, enough to make any woman’s heart flutter.”

    Lin Tianlu’s expression turned slightly awkward.

    “When did I become so attractive?”

    “You’re a man, Master Lin. You see your own face every day, so you wouldn’t notice.” The Fifth Elder chuckled and gently touched the corner of his eye. “That beauty mark is a perfect accent, enhancing your charm.

    Any woman who meets you, even a brief glance, would be captivated. And with your gentle nature and eloquent words…”

    Yun Yue nodded in agreement.

    Lin Tianlu: “…”

    Was he really that handsome?

    He had never thought about it before.

    He touched his face, his expression strange.

    And the effect of his appearance… it sounded a bit unsettling.

    Like a walking aphrodisiac.

    “Of course, you’re not exactly a peerless beauty, Master Lin, not someone who can bewitch women with a single glance. But your aura is truly…”

    The Fifth Elder paused, searching for the right words. “…Intriguing.”

    It was difficult to describe, but his presence evoked a sense of warmth and familiarity.

    He wasn’t someone you would fall in love with at first sight, but you would never dislike him.

    And the more you interacted with him, the more his charm would grow, like a blooming flower, leaving a lasting impression.

    Yun Yue nodded emphatically.

    “Ahem… Elder, you’re making me blush.” Lin Tianlu chuckled awkwardly and bowed slightly.

    “Your humility is admirable, Master Lin.”

    The Fifth Elder chuckled softly, then took out a brocade box from her sleeve and placed it in Yun Yue’s hand. “Here are some matching hairpins and jewelry, as a wedding gift. Please accept them.”

    “Thank you for your generosity, Elder.”

    “Now that the wedding robes are ready, why don’t you two stay the night? I can prepare a comfortable room for you, with a romantic ambiance.”

    Lin Tianlu and Yun Yue exchanged glances, their expressions awkward, and they quickly declined. “There’s no need, Fifth Elder. We’ll return to Martial Aunt’s private chamber. We wouldn’t want to impose. And it wouldn’t be appropriate to be seen with other female disciples.”

    “Oh~”

    The Fifth Elder’s eyes twinkled mischievously as she looked back and forth between them. “Since you’re both dressed in your wedding robes, why not… consummate your marriage?”

    Lin Tianlu’s lips twitched, and he bowed awkwardly. “Thank you for your kindness, Fifth Elder. But it’s getting late. Yun Yue and I should return now. We’ll visit you again tomorrow.”

    He took Yun Yue’s hand and they quickly left.

    The Fifth Elder didn’t try to stop them, her smile playful as she watched them go.

    “…”

    As silence returned to the courtyard, she let out a long sigh, as if a weight had been lifted from her shoulders.

    “The Lunar Valley… is truly changing because of this man…”

  • As a villain, I just want them to behave 239

    Chapter 239: Scraping the Bone to Heal

    “As expected of you. If the Pope knew your plan, she would cry tears of joy.” Afra sighed.

    Such wicked amusement was typical of Kailun.

    She didn’t know when he had picked up this bad habit, but it was probably impossible to change him.

    Afra didn’t mind, though. As long as Kailun wasn’t at a disadvantage, the feelings of outsiders were irrelevant.

    “Don’t be so sure. The Pope’s tolerance might be stronger than we imagine.”

    Kailun didn’t dwell on the topic of the Pope. He changed the subject. “Compared to the Pope, we should pay more attention to the Empire next door. They’ve been making a lot of moves recently, and their motives are unclear. It’s worth noting. Honestly, every time I think about that entity’s existence, I feel a sense of urgency.”

    Due to the lack of crucial information, Kailun couldn’t make an accurate judgment, even with the important information Carol had provided.

    Another reason for summoning Illusion was to fill in the missing pieces.

    Among the people around him, only Illusion clearly remembered everything that had happened in the previous life. The others either knew bits and pieces or knew nothing at all.

    “I knew you had ulterior motives. You just arrived, and you’re already trying to pry into my secrets.”

    Illusion pushed away Kailun’s arm and crossed her arms defensively. “I’ve already told Carol everything I can. I’m sure she’s relayed it to you. The remaining information shouldn’t affect the overall situation. Revealing it would only cause abnormalities in the world. This is such a headache. What am I supposed to do?”

    Kailun glanced at Illusion, who was wearing a long dress. “Judging from the facts, I’ve never peeked at your ‘secrets.’ It was always you who revealed them. I didn’t even have time to react. Also, I know what you’re worried about, but compared to gambling blindly, I prefer to gather more information before making a move. You can choose some less impactful information to tell me.”

    Illusion looked into Kailun’s eyes. “You’re too cautious. You already have the advantage. According to our previous calculations, neither that entity nor the Unlucky Entity can turn the tables. The power gap is too large. They haven’t fully recovered and can’t confront you directly. Can you tell me what you’re worried about?”

    From Illusion’s perspective, Kailun had already won at least eighty percent of the battle. Eighty percent was a conservative estimate. If she were bolder, she would even say ninety percent.

    Fate and Ottovia were strong, but that was ten thousand years ago and three years in the future. At this point in time, they hadn’t fully recovered.

    The Unlucky Entity, Ottovia, was already under Kailun’s control, with no chance of turning the tables.

    As for Fate, she was also in the recovery phase, her strength at most equivalent to two Popes.

    However, Afra could defeat three Popes, and Kailun himself wasn’t weak either. No matter how she looked at it, she felt that Kailun had already won. As long as he didn’t do anything reckless, victory was assured.

    Based on this consideration, she didn’t reveal any more information.

    Besides, the remaining information wasn’t that important and shouldn’t affect the overall situation, probably.

    Kailun shook his head at Illusion. “It’s not that I’m being overly cautious, but I suspect I’ve missed something important. Fate’s mentality is too good, so good that she’s interested in me. Not disgust, but interest. So do you really think she’s already lost?”

    This was simple logic. Even the relatively calm Pope had been driven to the brink by Kailun, her goodwill rating plummeting to -97 in just a few months.

    But Fate was still curious about him, not even angry about the Temple being divided. Was this the mentality of a loser?

    Kailun stared at Fate’s goodwill rating: 15. This number was incredibly jarring.

    Judging from Fate’s current behavior, she didn’t care about the gains and losses of the Temple of the Celestial God at all.

    He speculated that the Temple’s power wasn’t the deciding factor in this battle.

    By integrating the information, Kailun could roughly deduce what had happened after his death, but he still felt like something was missing.

    For example, what was the Empire’s true motive for acquiring Portland?

    Illusion frowned. “Is that so? Let me think about what I’ve missed.”

    “Well, I can’t think of anything. But since you’ve said so, I’ll tell you a little more… But don’t blame me if anything unexpected happens. You forced me to do this. You pinched my nose and patted my butt, forcing me to talk.”

    Illusion was extremely reluctant. Compared to Kailun’s gambling behavior, she preferred to play it safe.

    “Yes, you’re right. I forced you.”

    Kailun grinned and let Chrissy release his arm. He pulled Illusion into his embrace, pinched her nose with one hand, and patted her butt with the other. “Alright, you can talk now.”

    Illusion was stunned for a moment. “Let go of me! You’re taking revenge! If you’re not happy, you can take it out on Vivian. What does it have to do with me?”

    Kailun: “It’s fine. We’ll include Illusion next time. Now, answer my question.”

    Poor Illusion was once again bullied by Kailun.

    ……

    Strangely, since the end of the morning meeting, Pope Meggie Liran hadn’t seen Kailun for more than ten hours.

    She had thought tonight would be another night of torment, but the only person sharing her bed was Helena.

    Despite the absence of the sounds that usually disturbed her peace, she couldn’t fall asleep.

    “Pell, I want to go out for a walk.”

    Meggie Liran, wide awake, nudged Helena’s shoulder with her elbow. She wanted to go out and look at the moon, to relax.

    Helena turned to look at the Pope. “No, I can’t let you go out without Kailun’s permission. And I’ve told you many times, call me Helena. Otherwise, I’ll whip your butt with a barbed whip.”

    This time, Meggie Liran’s mood didn’t fluctuate. She looked into Helena’s green eyes. “You’ve all changed so much. You used to be an assassin who reveled in blood, and Chrissy was a lively Saint. Ever since you met Kailun, you’ve all changed, lost yourselves.”

    Helena put an arm under her head. “I don’t deny that we’ve changed, but I don’t think it’s a sign of losing ourselves. Compared to the Pell who only knew missions and slaughter, I prefer the current Helena. At least now I have the ability to whip you. As for Chrissy’s thoughts, I don’t know. You can ask her yourself.”

    “Forget it, let’s sleep. That Chrissy is beyond saving.”

    Meggie Liran turned her back to Helena, no longer wanting to think about Chrissy.

    She was disappointed in Chrissy, very, very disappointed.

    Although she had appeared cold during their interactions, she had always regarded Chrissy as a daughter, even wanting to groom her as her successor.

    Unfortunately, all her hopes had been shattered by Kailun. Not only had he stolen Chrissy, but he had also usurped the position of Pope right in front of her.

    There was no going back now. She prayed that Kailun would receive the punishment he deserved.

    Whoever it was, please punish that evil demon!

    Meggie Liran fell asleep as she prayed.

    The next morning, the operation to hunt down Kailun began with great fanfare. Paul and Charles were leading the operation.

    Six ninth-rank mages, thirteen eighth-rank mages, and countless seventh-rank mages participated in the hunt.

    This high-end combat power accounted for more than two-thirds of the Temple’s total, almost all of their available strength.

    Such a terrifying force could easily wipe out several major factions. Deploying such power to hunt down Kailun was a clear sign of how seriously they took him.

    “Pope Kailun,” in charge of supervising the operation, took everyone to the Temple’s highest hanging garden early in the morning. It offered a panoramic view of the entire city.

    The Hanging Gardens were built halfway up a mountain on the north side of the Temple, extending outwards from the mountainside, appearing to float in mid-air from afar.

    Legend had it that it was built ten thousand years ago by the mysterious entity named Fate, mainly for leisure.

    Although the successive Popes rarely visited it, it was regularly cleaned and maintained. It still looked harmonious and natural.

    Various exotic flowers and plants were eye-catching, and the pleasant fragrance filled the air. Closing one’s eyes, one could almost imagine being in a sea of flowers.

    Besides Meggie Liran, Helena and Illusion also accompanied “Pope Kailun.” Afra and Chrissy didn’t appear.

    Kailun led the group to the farthest edge of the Hanging Gardens, where a white round table sat.

    “Have a seat, everyone. This is the best viewing spot.”

    Kailun sat down first and gestured for the others to join him.

    “No, thanks. I’ll stand.”

    Illusion was the first to refuse. She rubbed her butt and glared at Kailun.

    He had righteously claimed that he didn’t want her to disappear, that he would give her more “sense of existence,” but all she received was his wild “passion.”

    “Suit yourself.”

    Kailun didn’t force her. He understood her predicament.

    Helena and Meggie Liran didn’t have similar problems. They sat down and looked at the city below.

    “It’s about to begin in a few minutes. Do you think Paul and the others can successfully hunt down Kailun?”

    Kailun took out two communication devices and placed them on the table, one his, and one Meggie Liran’s.

    Meggie Liran frowned. “Besides you, which Kailun are you talking about?”

    “Who knows?” Kailun chuckled and sent a magic letter to Afra.

    “Boom!”

    With a loud explosion, the so-called hunt officially began.

    Meggie Liran looked at the city below with unease, plumes of black smoke rising into the sky.

    Seeing the good feedback, Kailun wrote another magic letter, informing Charles of the direction to pursue.

    “Your Holiness, do you know the practical meaning of the phrase ‘scraping the bone to heal’ for the Temple?”

    Kailun leaned forward, his arms crossed, noticing the tension in her eyes.

  • The Saintess Has A Showdown 155-156

    Chapter 155: Reactions of the Saint-Ranks

    –Soul Prison Trial, Fourth Level, Tower of Heaven

    [Rule: Within this hundred-level tower, all spirit beasts will engage in free-for-all combat. When a certain number of spirit beasts are defeated on each level, all remaining spirit beasts will automatically ascend to the next level.]
    [There is no elimination in this trial, but the Spirit Master will be temporarily frozen from participating in the Soul Prison Trial. The earlier their team is completely defeated, the longer the freeze duration. A complete defeat on the first level will result in a one-year delay.]
    [Also, the higher the level reached upon defeat, the greater the reward for the Spirit Master.]

    The rules were transmitted to all the spirit beasts via the common spirit beast language. Upon understanding them, a large number of spirit beasts immediately retreated, distancing themselves from the Saint-ranks.

    The Desolate Fire Netherworld Rakshasa, the Hundred-Eyed Ghost Bride, the Abyssal Bloodbone Jiao, the Libra Fighting Swallow, and the Frost Snow Woman were all beings to be avoided.

    As the area around the Saint-ranks cleared, their respective teams became apparent.

    The Desolate Fire Netherworld Rakshasa’s team was unsurprisingly composed of fire-attribute, offensive types. The Hundred-Eyed Ghost Bride’s team was a group of… unsettling ghostly beings.

    The Abyssal Bloodbone Jiao… its teammates seemed to have been swallowed whole, their auras present, but their forms invisible.

    The Libra Fighting Swallow stood alone, as expected of a combat-type spirit beast, a lone wolf.

    The Frost Snow Woman’s team was a group of ice-type spirit beasts. Since the little fox had chosen a Snow Fox form today, it was naturally mistaken for one of them.

    The Frost Snow Woman, the Ice Spirit, the Iron Jade Ice Scorpion, and a Snow Fox. Their master must be a cold and ruthless woman.

    “Chirp!”

    However, with the other spirit beasts dispersed, the little fox’s aura was exposed.

    The pink flower and the green vine, like grotesque monsters, rushed towards it, drooling, clinging to it, and engaging in a… public display of affection.

    “…”
    “…”

    Gong Lianyue’s other three spirit beasts were familiar with these two plant-types and didn’t interfere.

    In fact, two more Saint-rank spirit beasts significantly increased their chances of survival.

    [Prepare yourselves. The battle will begin in ten seconds.]

    As the cold voice echoed in their minds, all the spirit beasts assumed battle stances, some even charging their attacks. Only the little fox looked nauseous and unwell.

    It was about to be suffocated by the earthy scent of the plant-type spirit beasts, yet it couldn’t escape the embrace of the Misty Heart Lotus and the Seven-Foot Sword Princess Flower.

    And these teammates had mistaken them for allies. How confusing!

    [Battle begin!]

    [Battle concluded. 100 spirit beasts defeated. Remaining spirit beasts, ascend to the next level.]

    Before the announcement even finished, the spirit beasts’ surroundings shifted, and they found themselves in a complex maze.

    The first level of the Tower of Heaven had ended in an instant, and they had automatically ascended to the second level.

    Eh? So fast?

    Had 100 spirit beasts already been defeated in that brief moment?

    Almost all the spirit beasts were bewildered, completely unsure of what had just happened.

    The Saint-rank Desolate Fire Netherworld Rakshasa, a massive, fiery skeleton, and its team of five fire-type spirit beasts exchanged grim looks.

    “Did you see that? What just happened!?”

    “No, I didn’t sense anything, just a sudden chill.”

    “Be careful from now on. Split up after level 80. For our master’s sake, we can’t be easily defeated!”

    The Desolate Fire Netherworld Rakshasa remained silent. Although its body burned like hellfire, its heart was filled with ice.

    Something… unsettling… had entered this Soul Prison Trial.

    The Saint-rank Abyssal Bloodbone Jiao.

    Its massive, kilometer-long body had shrunk to the size of an ant, carefully hidden within the maze.

    Under a microscope, one could see its trembling form, its emotions fluctuating wildly.

    Although a massive biological-type beast, its dynamic vision was so sharp that, even thousands of years ago, as a wild spirit beast, it could easily track the White Moon Lord’s interdimensional leaps.

    And yet, just now, it had seen nothing, unable to even react…

    The Saint-rank Hundred-Eyed Ghost Bride, a beautiful female ghost in purple mourning clothes. Although her appearance was captivating, grotesque eyeballs constantly emerged from her robes.

    Surrounded by a group of strange, ghostly spirit beasts, the Hundred-Eyed Ghost Bride wept softly.

    Then, the other ghost-type spirit beasts also began to wail, their expressions filled with terror.

    Swish, swish, swish!

    The Hundred-Eyed Ghost Bride flicked its sleeve, scattering hundreds of eyeballs, which froze in midair.

    The eyeballs converged, forming a massive, fleshy orb, a blurry black and white image, like an old television screen, appearing within its pupil.

    The image showed the first level of the tower, a moment before the battle began.

    Click—

    The image flickered, skipping to the next level, as if a section had been cut out, nothing in between.

    The Hundred-Eyed Ghost Bride’s expression turned grim. It radiated a powerful spirit energy that enveloped the fleshy eyeball.

    This time, the image slowed down, the flickering delayed, but the scene remained unchanged.

    Still unwilling to give up, the Hundred-Eyed Ghost Bride’s spirit energy surged, a terrifying purple aura almost filling half the maze, scaring the weaker spirit beasts witless.

    The image slowed down even further, thousands of times slower, the eyeballs on its robe all opening, staring intently at the screen.

    Finally, it saw it!

    With a certain humanoid spirit beast as the epicenter, a hundred spirit beasts within its vicinity instantly melted.

    A woman with snow-white hair and antlers, her hair shimmering like fireflies, her eyes, both the whites and the pupils, a uniform grayish-white, a disturbing and unsettling sight.

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

    And her long, slender legs, bent at the knees like a quadruped, clearly mimicking the stance of her true form.

    Seeing this antlered woman, the Hundred-Eyed Ghost Bride froze, a chilling dread filling its heart, unable to speak.

    All the Saint-rank teams were startled by what had just happened, except for one.

    Four ice-type spirit beasts and two plant-type spirit beasts chatted and laughed, seemingly oblivious to the events that had just transpired.

    Chapter 156: The Antlered Woman

    –Soul Prison Trial, Fourth Level, Tower of Heaven

    While the first level, a free-for-all area, had ended almost instantly, the subsequent levels each lasted four or five minutes.

    After all, the tower’s maze was quite large. Encounters were infrequent, and the early battles were mostly tentative, neither side fully committing.

    As they ascended, the maze became more complex and expansive, allowing for various spirit beast types, ranks, and battle techniques to come into play.

    With the Spirit Masters absent, this was a test of the lead spirit beast’s command and judgment.

    Tens of thousands of spirit beasts battled within the maze. Having reached the seventh level, Gong Lianyue’s spirit beasts, however, hadn’t even heard a single sound.

    The Frost Snow Woman’s Saint-rank aura was simply too terrifying. Enemy spirit beasts fled the moment they sensed it from hundreds of meters away.

    Not just her team, but the other Saint-rank teams were also likely enjoying a leisurely stroll.

    At this moment, the Frost Snow Woman’s team was wandering aimlessly, their thoughts elsewhere.

    [Iron Jade Ice Scorpion: I want to fight!]
    [Frost Snow Woman: I wonder if we can reach the 100th floor.]
    [Ice Soul Cold Star: …]
    [Nine-Colored Cloud Dream Flower: Chirp chirp, help!!!]
    [Misty Heart Lotus: ?????]
    [Seven-Foot Sword Princess Flower: ?????]

    Boom!!!!

    Suddenly, the wall and floor before them exploded, a cloud of dust and debris erupting.

    As the dust settled, the six spirit beasts stared in disbelief, as if stunned.

    Before them stood a massive, black ape, over a hundred meters tall, with four terrifying arms, a demonic figure.

    A high-rank, Arm-Smashing Demon Ape!!!

    And in its hands, it held another high-rank spirit beast, the weapon-type Dragon Emperor Battle Axes.

    Four heavy, sharp axes, each with a dragon-head design, were gripped tightly in its massive hands, radiating a violent aura. This was the combined power of two high-rank spirit beasts!

    Spirit Masters with weapon-type spirit beasts usually had to reach the Samsara Stage to utilize their full potential. Only in the hands of another spirit beast could a weapon-type spirit beast unleash its true power. A Spirit Master’s frail body was simply too weak.

    Like He Daoqi of the Gray Citadel. Although her Swallow God’s aura was terrifying, among the highest ranked in the Wind Realm, she could only manage a few swings before collapsing from exhaustion.

    Therefore, upon reaching the Samsara Stage, a Spirit Master could summon two spirit beasts simultaneously, one to wield the weapon-type spirit beast, creating a synergistic effect far greater than the sum of their individual strengths. It wasn’t 1 + 1, but 1 * 1!!!!

    Now, within the Soul Prison Trial, free from its Spirit Master’s limitations, the Arm-Smashing Demon Ape swung the Dragon Emperor Battle Axes with ferocious abandon.

    “I’m not afraid of any Saint-rank spirit beast, especially a weak, support-type!”

    “I’ll kill you all!!”

    Its furious roar echoed through the maze. Seeing the six spirit beasts’ stunned expressions, the Demon Ape grinned smugly.

    It wished its master would hurry up and reach the Samsara Stage so it could unleash its full power and… engage in some intimate activities with its beloved, instead of relying on telepathic communication within the spirit space.

    It lovingly stroked the axes’ handles, causing them to tremble slightly.

    “…”
    “…”

    The Frost Snow Woman and her team exchanged glances, still seemingly unable to comprehend the situation.

    They had sensed the ape’s aura, but they hadn’t expected it to attack, to challenge a Saint-rank.

    If there were only one Saint-rank present, the Frost Snow Woman, then the ape’s actions could be attributed to recklessness, not stupidity.

    But, buddy, did you know how many Saint-ranks were here…?

    As they hesitated, the four-armed ape raised its axes high above its head and swung down.

    It was confident that with its strength, regardless of whether it hit its target directly, even the aftershock would be enough to cripple, if not kill, anyone caught in the blast.

    Boom!

    Boom!!

    Boom, boom, boom!!!

    The four axes slammed down, the surrounding structures crumbling into dust, the terrifying force pulverizing everything within a hundred-meter radius.

    Wherever this spirit beast came from, its fighting spirit was undeniable.

    However, after only three strikes, the ape could no longer hold the axes. Not only were the blades shattered, but its fists were also covered in blood.

    It stared down in horror. As the dust settled, a massive, ice-green figure was revealed.

    The Iron Jade Ice Scorpion stood motionless, its body covered in a smooth, jade-like film, like a frozen fossil.

    [Battle Technique – Jade Shatter]

    Its perfectly tempered body was unscathed, not a single scratch, its shimmering, crystalline armor glowing beautifully.

    The other spirit beasts, shielded behind it, hadn’t even moved.

    Thud!

    The ape’s four arms, twisted and broken, fell limply to its sides, the axes clattering to the ground.

    Its face contorted in shock and fear, its eyes widening and contracting, its mind reeling.

    How was this possible? Not only had its attack failed to penetrate the scorpion’s defenses, but the mere recoil had crippled it!

    Such incredible durability…

    [Battle concluded. 100 spirit beasts defeated. Remaining spirit beasts, ascend to the next level.]

    [Current level: Eighth.]

    Just as despair filled the Arm-Smashing Demon Ape, its surroundings shifted, and it was transported to a new area.

    The seventh level had ended!

    “Hahaha, the heavens are on my side! I’ll have my revenge when my injuries heal!”

    The ape, having learned nothing, picked up the four axes with its mouth and swallowed them, its face filled with a delusional glee.

    It must have been an off day. There was no way it could lose to a mere scorpion. It would crush them all next time.

    A single loss meant nothing. It would eventually defeat these Saint-ranks!

    Whoosh—

    The next second, the Arm-Smashing Demon Ape froze, its movements ceasing.

    Then, almost instantly, both it and the Dragon Emperor Battle Axes within its stomach dissolved into a puddle of white, viscous liquid.

    A chilling winter aura filled the maze. A woman with snow-white hair and antlers, her gray eyes cold and indifferent, walked past.

    “Let’s see what kind of monster this Soul Prison Trial is, that even mythical beings can’t identify its true nature.”

  • The Devil Does Not Need to Be Defeated 496

    Chapter 496: “What Happens Next?”

    “Sister Carol…”

    A soft, almost inaudible voice called out, reaching Carol’s ears and rendering her speechless.

    Because that voice was filled with an almost imperceptible sense of helplessness and grievance.

    Carol could see Melika, who was with Shien and his group, her delicate face full of bewilderment and on the verge of tears.

    It was easy to imagine the complex emotions Melika was feeling.

    It was only natural.

    Shien and his group were invited by Melika, but Carol, the person who had taught her the basics of magic and was like an older sister to her, had ruthlessly turned them away, even preparing to drive them out. Melika’s feelings were completely understandable.

    On one side were the guests she invited, including the person she admired, and on the other side were her fellow elves, like family. Caught in the middle, how could Melika not feel helpless and conflicted?

    Melika had tried to stop Carol, tried to explain, but she was repeatedly interrupted before she could finish her sentences.

    Melika was extremely anxious, on the verge of tears, so much so that even the Elven Queen’s appearance didn’t make her react immediately and bow.

    This made Carol speechless and silent.

    From her perspective, everything she had done was correct.

    For the sake of the Elven Race and the Elven Homeland, she wanted to eliminate all unexpected factors and anomalies, which was understandable.

    But was Shien wrong?

    He was just here as a guest, for sightseeing, not asking for anything. Being turned away for some unfounded reason, with his temper, he would naturally retaliate before talking.

    Of course, this was their territory. It was their right to refuse him entry, and he had no grudges against them, so there was no need to make a big fuss.

    Therefore, Shien only intended to dampen their spirits, vent his frustration, and then leave, finding another place to enjoy himself.

    However, that would make Melika sad.

    Therefore, Shien planned to reason with this vice-commander, and also test his improved magic abilities.

    Who would have thought that Sophie, the Elven Queen, would suddenly appear and stop this?

    And since neither side was wrong, Sophie’s intervention was crucial.

    Otherwise, although it wouldn’t escalate to a massacre, a conflict would have been inevitable.

    Carol wasn’t a fool and could also see Shien’s intentions.

    If he really wanted to fight, Shien wouldn’t have stopped Lilith just now. The result wouldn’t have been just breaking the [Pure Flower Curtain].

    “…I understand.”

    Carol was silent for a moment, then nodded and stepped aside.

    Her attitude showed that she acknowledged this way of handling the situation, but she didn’t think she was wrong.

    Just as she had shown, she was somewhat inflexible, stubborn, and could be impartial for the sake of the Elven Race and the Elven Homeland.

    Therefore, even seeing Melika’s sad expression, Carol didn’t say anything more.

    Sophie naturally understood Carol’s personality.

    Sophie didn’t say anything unnecessary, just turning her gaze to Melika.

    “Your invited guests are quite extraordinary, Melika.” Sophie said, as if comforting her, “You must have gained a lot during your travels. You have to tell me all about it later.”

    Sophie, without any airs of royalty, spoke to Melika gently and kindly, like she was talking to a child.

    But these were also Sophie’s true thoughts.

    Melika’s gains were indeed significant, so significant that even Sophie was surprised.

    When she first sensed Melika’s magic power, Sophie couldn’t believe that in less than two years of traveling, Melika’s magic power had increased so much.

    Her level hadn’t increased much, so why did her magic power suddenly surge?

    And why could she sense another person’s aura within this magic power?

    Sophie looked at Melika thoughtfully, then at Shien, lost in thought.

    Melika, on the other hand, only now hurriedly knelt down on one knee before Sophie, performing a subject’s salute.

    “Your Majesty.” Melika said to Sophie, “Mr. Shien really won’t do anything to the Elven Homeland. Please believe me.”

    Melika was still desperately pleading for Shien.

    Her desperate appearance even moved Shien.

    Sophie also seemed surprised.

    After all, elves were naturally wary of men from other races. Even though they were kind and pure by nature, desperately pleading for a man from another race like this was something that had never happened before in the Elven Race.

    The fact that Melika would go to such lengths for Shien clearly showed that she valued him greatly, even possibly…

    A guess flashed through Sophie’s mind, and she smiled wryly.

    This didn’t seem to be a good thing.

    Elven love stories were mostly tragic, rarely having a happy ending.

    As the Elven Queen, Sophie had seen elves fall in love before, but in thousands of years, there were almost no happy endings.

    (Has this child also followed in the footsteps of those pitiful elves?)

    Sophie felt heartache.

    But this was the fate of an elf in love. Sophie couldn’t say anything and could only remain silent.

    However, Melika’s desperate appearance still evoked some memories in Sophie.

    Memories of the Hero who had once pursued her.

    As the Hero, and the strongest Hero of all time, Mitra wasn’t as bad as Airi said.

    He had a strong sense of justice and was very proactive, always decisive and resolute, constantly traveling across the battlefield and every corner of the continent for this world that had nothing to do with him, never resting in his life.

    Coupled with his great strength, handsome appearance, and special status, that Hero was undoubtedly the prince charming in the hearts of many girls.

    But Sophie rejected his pursuit without hesitation.

    Not for any other reason, but because she knew very well that elven love stories never had a happy ending.

    Especially for her, as elven royalty, she had a greater responsibility and duty and couldn’t allow herself to fall in love.

    Elven love was pure and sacred.

    For this love without a future, they would be willing to sacrifice everything, including their lives.

    Thinking of that consequence, Sophie felt that she definitely couldn’t bear it.

    It wasn’t that she wouldn’t do it.

    On the contrary, she was worried that she would do it, thus endangering the survival of the Elven Race.

    She didn’t want to one day abandon, or even sacrifice, the Elven Race for the sake of so-called love, devoting herself entirely to someone else.

    Therefore, from the very beginning, Sophie closed her heart, not giving herself a chance to fall in love.

    When facing Mitra, the Hero, Sophie was the same, restraining herself from the start, not interacting too much with him, lest her heart be moved.

    In short, Sophie’s vigilance towards men from other races was actually stronger than any other elf.

    But Sophie hid it well, never showing it, always greeting men from other races with a smile, but always maintaining a certain distance.

    Including when facing the Hero.

    Perhaps even Airi didn’t know that Mitra wasn’t the first Hero to pursue Sophie.

    Having lived for thousands of years, Sophie had met several Heroes and been pursued by them.

    Even the founding Hero who established the Ragna Empire had once pursued Sophie.

    Among the Elven Race, known for their beauty, the elven royalty’s appearance surpassed all others, even comparable to goddesses. It was only natural for the Elven Queen to be pursued by men.

    But Sophie never accepted anyone.

    No matter how outstanding they were.

    The reason was simply that she didn’t dare to.

    She didn’t dare to let herself fall in love, like those elves who had experienced tragic love stories, sacrificing everything and gaining nothing in the end.

    “Phew…”

    Sophie exhaled softly, calming herself down, and shook her head at Melika.

    “Alright, Melika, I understand.” Sophie said gently, “You can stand up now.”

    “Then…” Melika didn’t immediately comply, but looked at Sophie nervously.

    Seeing this, Sophie couldn’t help but smile.

    “I said, Viscount Buztout is also a welcome guest.” Sophie smiled at Melika. “I won’t drive him away. You can rest assured.”

    Hearing this, Melika was finally relieved.

    Shien had been watching Melika, his feelings complicated.

    He suddenly realized that he seemed to have underestimated this girl’s feelings for him.

    It was no longer just a matter of her being willing to “give herself to him,” but to the point of being foolish.

    Shien wasn’t the only one who thought this way.

    “So foolish…”

    Lucy muttered at the side, her gaze towards Melika much gentler than before.

    Airi also seemed to glance at Melika discreetly.

    But, in contrast, both girls glared at Shien.

    Shien felt two sharp gazes piercing his back, making him feel uncomfortable.

    Fortunately, Sophie saved him.

    “Then, everyone, please enter the Elven Homeland.”

    Sophie smiled at Shien and his group, then said to Carol,

    “Give these guests the highest level of treatment and properly receive them. Don’t be rude again, understand?”

    Hearing Sophie’s words, Carol lowered her head and acknowledged the order.

    “Then we’ll excuse ourselves.” Sophie bowed slightly. “Please forgive us for any negligence.”

    Saying so, an emerald green light shone around Sophie again.

    Leia and Nia, who had been silent behind her, also raised their staffs, causing leaves and petals to swirl around them, enveloping the emerald light.

    The next moment, surrounded by leaves and petals, the light shot up into the sky and flew towards the depths of the Elven Homeland.

    Carol then led the members of the Elven Corps to Shien and his group.

    “Please follow me, honored guests.”

    Carol said formally.

    Lucy, Airi, Lilith, Lasha, and Melika all looked at Shien.

    Shien pursed his lips, feeling a bit disappointed.

    With things having turned out like this, he wasn’t really in the mood to enter the Elven Homeland anymore.

    However, since they had spoken so politely, and Melika had gone to such lengths, it wouldn’t be right for Shien to just leave.

    Therefore, Shien could only say listlessly,

    “Let’s go.”

    Hearing his words, everyone nodded.

    Carol also took a deep look at him, then without another word, led the Elven Corps, as if truly escorting distinguished guests, and led them inside.

    The surrounding fairies and butterflies finally emerged from behind the glowing trees.

    However, the fairies, looking at the departing group, or rather, at Shien among them, after a moment of commotion, couldn’t help themselves and, flapping their small wings, quietly followed.

    This scene showed that Carol’s worries weren’t entirely unfounded.

    These fairies, who hadn’t gained intelligence and become elves yet, were indeed attracted by Shien’s aura and magic power, now gathering towards him like moths to a flame.

    Under such circumstances, no one noticed that a faint voice echoed in the depths of nature, imperceptible to others.

    “What will happen next?”

    The goddess who had been watching all this seemed to have foreseen it.

    Foreseen what would happen next.

    …

    “Thump—thump—thump—thump—”

    Heavy footsteps echoed through the magical forest.

    It was the sound of Yulin’s footsteps.

    Yulin was following Shien, his group, and the Elven Corps, scaring away countless fairies and fantasy creatures along the way. She seemed out of place here, like a ferocious dragon who had strayed into paradise, very unwelcome.

    Carol frowned and finally couldn’t help but say,

    “Are you even bringing this dragon in?”

    It seemed Carol didn’t want to see Yulin, a ferocious monster, enter the Elven Homeland.

    Yulin was displeased by this, but she didn’t dare to roar again.

    If she did, she would probably be scolded again.

    Shien glanced at Carol.

    “What? Can’t monsters enter the Elven Homeland?” Shien said nonchalantly, “Are you planning to drive us away again?”

    Carol didn’t say anything more.

    After all, Shien’s attitude was clear. He didn’t intend to follow her wishes.

  • Reborn to Stew Soup (GL) 112

    Chapter 112: Packing Up

    Director Pan was meticulous, believing that filming should follow the script’s timeline for the actors to fully embody their roles. He disliked rearranging scenes due to scheduling or location constraints.

    Because of this, the scene of the elderly Empress Dowager revisiting the estate was saved for the very end of filming, not filmed two months prior when they were at the estate location.

    From beginning to end, just like a person’s life, starting with innocence, experiencing both prosperity and hardship, time leaving its mark, becoming a witness to the passage of time.

    Compared to the earlier scenes, this scene was quiet and peaceful, even serene. But after the previous emotionally charged scenes, this serenity felt heavy.

    This is the feeling I want, Director Pan thought.

    But as Ji Junxin, dressed in dark clothing, her hair graying, slowly walked through the scene, a deep sense of weariness and the weight of years emanated from the screen, beyond the initial heaviness and sadness.

    According to the script, Ji Junxin just had to walk through the estate, revisit the courtyard where Miao Qianye and the young Empress had lived, and touch a few familiar objects. It was a long scene, but only a few shots would be used in the final film. Ji Junxin followed the script, walking slowly, touching objects gently. This silent performance created a sense of oppressive stillness on set.

    And when Ji Junxin, after wandering through the house, finally sat down on the steps, leaning against the door frame, her eyes slowly closing as she faced the setting sun, Director Pan felt… a sense of finality.

    The script doesn’t say Miao Qianye dies here! Well, she was just sitting, she hadn’t collapsed… but it felt… like a peaceful passing. He wanted to comment, but this scene, capturing Ji Junxin’s serene expression, would be a perfect ending…

    A perfect ending.

    As a director, Director Pan had a keen eye for visuals. He knew that the spot where Ji Junxin sat was almost exactly where the young Empress used to sit, holding the baby. The original ending included a flashback to that time, and now… this unintentional mirroring was perfect. Well, perhaps not unintentional.

    These actors, they’re practically directing themselves.

    The setting sun bathed Ji Junxin’s silver hair in a warm, orange glow, a comforting warmth.

    This was the final shot of “Imperial Secrets.”

    Months of filming, from autumn to spring, this moment, when Director Pan called “cut” and announced that filming had wrapped, should have been filled with joy and excitement.

    But it wasn’t.

    The day’s scenes had been too emotionally charged, too heavy. Even the crew was still feeling the weight of the story.

    Only after packing up the equipment and chatting with each other did they finally feel a sense of closure, the atmosphere on set shifting from quiet solemnity to lively chatter.

    Ji Junxin, who had been basking in the setting sun with her eyes closed, finally opened them.

    Her expression was serene, almost melancholic, her gaze distant, as if oblivious to the people around her.

    Until a hand shielded her eyes from the sun.

    “Looking directly at the sun will hurt your eyes.”

    Ji Junxin heard Mi Hongdou’s familiar voice. She didn’t move, and neither did Mi Hongdou’s hand.

    They hadn’t brought much equipment for this one scene at the estate, and now, with the crew and equipment gone, the set was quiet again.

    After a while, when almost everyone had left, Ji Junxin turned to Mi Hongdou and asked, her head tilted slightly upwards, “Can we have plain porridge and boiled eggs for dinner?”

    Her earlier solemnity and weariness seemed to have vanished with the departing crew. Now, with her silver hair and her earnest request for food, she looked… strangely cute.

    I hope that when she’s old, I can still be by her side, making her whatever she wants to eat, Mi Hongdou thought, her eyes softening. She couldn’t refuse. Although she had been thinking about celebrating the wrap-up with a feast at Jiang Lingling’s restaurant, Ji Junxin’s wishes were more important.

    So, Jiang Lingling, who had called Mi Hongdou excitedly, hoping for a celebratory dinner… was a step too late.

    After being gently rejected by Mi Hongdou, Jiang Lingling was dejected. She had stayed in Shudian for three days, without any scenes of her own, just for this celebratory meal! And now… what was the point?

    No matter how gently Mi Hongdou phrased it, to Jiang Lingling, it was a devastating blow! Cold and heartless!

    The filming was over, but Jiang Lingling was incredibly unhappy.

    And… so was Mi Hongdou.

    The end of filming meant the end of “Imperial Secrets,” the end of their shared life. Even if they had the opportunity to work together again… they wouldn’t be living together anymore. Mi Hongdou felt a deep sense of sadness at their impending separation, a growing anxiety about the future of their friendship.

    The future seemed bleak, all she could do now was cherish this last night together.

    Mi Hongdou thought that even if Ji Junxin didn’t share her intense feelings, she would at least feel some sadness at their parting. But when they arrived at the hotel, and Ji Junxin asked Zhong Yin to help them pack, Mi Hongdou was stunned.

    It was their last night at the hotel, they were leaving tomorrow. They had accumulated quite a bit of stuff after months of living there, starting to pack early was reasonable… but seeing Ji Junxin so casually ask Zhong Yin to pack, Mi Hongdou felt a pang of sadness. I want to freeze time, but she’s eager to leave…

    But since Ji Junxin had asked, Mi Hongdou couldn’t object. She had to hide her own emotions and appear just as casual!

    Her carefully constructed facade crumbled when Ji Junxin spoke again.

    After asking Zhong Yin, Ji Junxin called out to Bai Tang, “Bai Tang, come help too.”

    Bai Tang was Mi Hongdou’s assistant. Ji Junxin asking her to help meant… helping Mi Hongdou pack!

    Bai Tang, having received some subtle guidance from Jiang Lingling’s assistant, instinctively looked at Mi Hongdou.

    “Come on then,” Mi Hongdou said, forcing a cheerful tone, her heart sinking.

    So she really can’t wait to leave! Mi Hongdou was heartbroken and blamed Qiao Rubai for Ji Junxin’s coldness. It must be because she hadn’t told her about their conversation!

    Qiao Rubai, who had spent ten hours traveling, finally returned to the company just as the sun was setting, and before she could even get through a few documents, she started sneezing uncontrollably.

    Had she caught a cold in spring? Qiao Rubai looked up at the sky, dejected…

    Regardless of Mi Hongdou’s attempts to appear indifferent, Zhong Yin and Bai Tang went upstairs. While Mi Hongdou started cooking porridge in the kitchen, they started packing.

    Mi Hongdou, while washing the rice, could hear Ji Junxin in the living room, directing Zhong Yin, “Pack this, pack that,” and her heart felt like it was shattering into even smaller pieces than the rice grains.

    In the time it took her to wash the rice, Ji Junxin and Zhong Yin had already filled two suitcases. Mi Hongdou glared at Bai Tang. She had only filled half a suitcase. Her own assistant was still the best!

    Zhong Yin’s efficiency was incredible. Before Mi Hongdou even finished the porridge and boiled the eggs, almost all of Ji Junxin’s belongings in the living room were gone. Mi Hongdou took an egg from the refrigerator and casually walked through the living room, noticing the empty spaces where Ji Junxin’s things used to be. The suite felt bare, the earlier warmth gone.

    The impending separation… it was sad.

    Before she could fully process it, Ji Junxin said, pushing the suitcases together, “Zhong Yin, let’s take these downstairs and put them in the car, so we don’t have to carry them down tomorrow.”

    You’re so eager to leave! Why not just go back to Jiang City tonight! Mi Hongdou thought, her grip on the egg tightening. If it were Jiang Lingling, the egg would have cracked.

    Ji Junxin, seeing no reaction from Mi Hongdou, also enlisted Bai Tang to help carry the suitcases downstairs. With the suitcases gone, the room felt even emptier. Mi Hongdou sat on the sofa, feeling defeated… so her hopes of remaining friends with Ji Junxin after the film… were just wishful thinking. Ji Junxin couldn’t wait to leave.

    As expected, after taking the suitcases down, Ji Junxin returned and asked Mi Hongdou, her voice seemingly concerned, “Should I help you pack? We’re leaving tomorrow morning, just leave out the things you need for tonight.”

    Mi Hongdou was certain that her face, after all the emotional turmoil today, must look terrible. Even Bai Tang didn’t dare to approach her… She didn’t think Ji Junxin couldn’t see it, but Ji Junxin still asked, her expression sincere, waiting for an answer.

    And the worst part was, Mi Hongdou, knowing all this, couldn’t refuse.

    “Okay,” she agreed, her voice sounding strange even to her own ears.

    Ji Junxin, seemingly oblivious, took Mi Hongdou’s luggage and, with Bai Tang’s help, continued packing, not even glancing at Mi Hongdou.

    What a terrible day, Mi Hongdou thought, looking at the darkening sky outside.

    Why did Qiao Rubai have to come today, of all days? Mi Hongdou felt that Ji Junxin’s coldness was because she hadn’t told her about their conversation. But she couldn’t tell her the truth, and she couldn’t lie to Ji Junxin either, so she could only endure this silent treatment, watching as they packed, first the living room, then the bedroom.

    Zhong Yin was incredibly efficient, her plump figure moving swiftly through the small suite, carrying armfuls of clothes from the bedroom, sorting and packing them neatly into the suitcases with practiced ease.

    Mi Hongdou watched, thinking that even she herself couldn’t pack that quickly. Zhong Yin… wasn’t endearing at all! Hmph!

    Bai Tang, seeing Mi Hongdou’s gloomy expression, and Ji Junxin, who was so engrossed in packing that she was sweating, kindly stopped Zhong Yin as she was about to grab another armful of clothes.

    Zhong Yin’s round face was full of confusion.

    Bai Tang subtly hinted that there was no need to rush.

    Zhong Yin said that her employer was Ji Junxin, who seemed to be in a hurry, and then continued packing.

    Bai Tang paused. So, not everyone was as perceptive as her.

    Zhong Yin was perceptive, but she had been sent by Qiao Rubai to take care of Ji Junxin. Before, when Ji Junxin didn’t want her around, she stayed away. Today, Ji Junxin asked for her help, so she helped. She had to build a good relationship with the crew, but her loyalty was to her employer, and she had to prioritize Ji Junxin’s needs, not Mi Hongdou’s feelings. Although Mi Hongdou didn’t seem like an outsider, Ji Junxin’s urgency was evident. Why she was in such a hurry, Zhong Yin didn’t care, she just had to follow her instructions.

    With Zhong Yin’s efficiency, Mi Hongdou’s luggage was also quickly packed.

    Ji Junxin then suggested taking the suitcases down to Mengguan’s chauffeured car, which was there to pick up Mi Hongdou.

    By now, Mi Hongdou had no energy to protest Ji Junxin’s obvious desire for them to travel separately.

    The suitcases were gone, and the room felt truly empty.

    The porridge was almost done, time to boil the eggs. Mi Hongdou composed herself, she still had to cook, after all. Who knew if she would still have the chance to cook for Ji Junxin if she continued to be angry? She had to make Qiao Rubai take responsibility for this… Mi Hongdou thought. If Ji Junxin didn’t forgive her, she would have to ask Qiao Rubai for help in explaining what had happened behind the curtains.

    Ji Junxin returned alone.

    The empty room, the two of them, it was like when they first met…

    Even the meal was the same as their first night together.

    Mi Hongdou, smelling the porridge, was lost in thought, then suddenly realized, could Ji Junxin’s request for porridge and boiled eggs be… a symbolic gesture of ending things? If so… the situation was even worse than she thought.

    Just as Mi Hongdou was about to confront Ji Junxin, her phone rang.

    It was Director Pan, inviting them to a wrap-up dinner at Jiang Lingling’s restaurant.

    Thanks to Jiang Lingling’s efforts, that once mediocre restaurant had become quite popular. Every crew in Shudian had received free samples, and the food was good, so it had gained a good reputation. Having the wrap-up dinner at Jiang Lingling’s restaurant was only natural.

    But Mi Hongdou was stunned. She had completely forgotten… about the wrap-up dinner. Why had she been making porridge then? Had she lost her mind?

    Of course… if they didn’t want to go, they didn’t have to.

    Mi Hongdou told Ji Junxin, secretly hoping that she wouldn’t want to go, so they could have dinner together at the suite.

    But Ji Junxin, after a moment of thought, agreed readily, another disappointment for Mi Hongdou.

    Jiang Lingling’s restaurant’s food was now quite good. The wrap-up dinner was a feast, and both Mi Hongdou and Ji Junxin, after trying a little of everything, were full when they returned.

    The porridge she had made earlier was untouched, the eggs unboiled.

    Mi Hongdou figured Ji Junxin would probably return to Jiang City tomorrow morning.

    “Are we having breakfast tomorrow?” she asked, looking at the porridge.

    “No,” Ji Junxin answered curtly, then, seeing Mi Hongdou’s gaze on the porridge, changed her mind. “Put it in the refrigerator…”

    Not eating it, but putting it in the refrigerator… Mi Hongdou complained inwardly, but she still did as Ji Junxin asked.

    After today’s events, Mi Hongdou realized that she didn’t quite understand Ji Junxin. Even after two lifetimes, did she really know her? Their interactions in her previous life had been limited to food, and although they were much closer in this life, she had thought she understood Ji Junxin. But… the Ji Junxin today was a stranger, so distant that she didn’t even dare to ask about the reason for her change.

    The usually gentle and soft Ji Junxin seemed to have become more assertive, her warmth replaced by a certain coldness.

    And this Ji Junxin had skillfully deflected her attempts at conversation.

    Having been emotionally battered by Qiao Rubai and then repeatedly rejected by Ji Junxin, Mi Hongdou, exhausted, went to shower, feeling defeated.

    But when she came out, she saw Ji Junxin sitting on her bed, properly dressed in her pajamas. Yes, on her bed.

    So she’s finally ready to talk? But I don’t want to talk anymore, hmph!

    Although that was her thought, Mi Hongdou slowly approached.

    “I accidentally spilled some cola on my bed earlier,” Ji Junxin said, pointing at her bed. “Right in the middle, the sheets and blanket are all wet. It’s too late to ask for new ones, and I don’t like using the hotel’s bedding. Our spare set is packed in the car, I don’t know which suitcase it’s in, it’s too much trouble to unpack. Since it’s just for one night, can I sleep with you tonight?”

    Mi Hongdou, hearing the long explanation, was stunned.

    “Wh… what?” she stammered.

    “…” Ji Junxin omitted her earlier explanation and asked again, “Can I sleep with you tonight?”

  • Back to Three Years Old: Crushing Scumbags on a Parenting Reality Show 129

    Chapter 129

    4:30 PM!

    It came too quickly!

    Wei Chengli, carrying a large bag of photos, pointed at the small pavilion on the right with tears in his eyes as the staff announced the end of the task and that they could head back. “Let me take two more photos over there, they won’t count towards the total, just let me take a few more, then we’ll go back.”

    “… “ The staff member looked down and counted the empty Polaroid film boxes that Wei Chengli had used. Hehe, thankfully, he brought many spares, he even took some from the other teams earlier, he was truly a visionary.

    Cute Maomao.

    Cute Yan Yan.

    Cute Yan Yan and Maomao together.

    Mmm… He had to take one of Cheng Rongrong too.

    They were all children, Wei Chengli maintained his fairness.

    True to his word, after finishing taking photos at the pavilion, Wei Chengli, who had taken hundreds of photos throughout the afternoon, shook his sore hand and called it a day.

    “Director Wei, you’ve worked hard.” Shen Jianghe said, handing him a bottle of water, he even thoughtfully unscrewed the cap for him.

    “It wasn’t hard work, not at all.” Wei Chengli said, taking the water, he glanced at the little chubby dumpling, who was with Yan Yan not far away, and chuckled. “Thank you, CEO Shen, for accompanying us.”

    Although the album he got from Wen Xiang did have many overlapping photos with the one Shen Jianghe had, there were still some locations they had to find separately. They had indeed walked quite a bit.

    Wei Chengli was so engrossed in taking pictures that he didn’t even notice the distance. But Shen Jianghe had been helping to look after the children along the way, handing them water, bags, tissues, without any complaints, he even offered words of encouragement from time to time, maintaining a positive and supportive attitude, his good temper was beyond Wei Chengli’s expectations.

    And most importantly, Shen Jianghe only used thirty sheets of film to take the required photos, he gave all the remaining blank film to Wei Chengli, he was truly a good person!

    Wei Chengli, looking at the bag in his hand, filled with hundreds of photos, smiled with satisfaction.

    They got into the car, and on the way back, each person took a handful of photos from Wei Chengli and looked at them.

    Grand palace halls, towering city walls, pavilions and towers, winding alleys… sunny lotus ponds, shady willow trees…

    Wei Maomao and Cheng Tingyan, their heads touching, flipped through their photos together, the corners of their mouths slightly lifted, they were satisfied, even after walking for an entire afternoon.

    Shen Jianghe was surprised to receive a few photos of himself, taken candidly by Wei Chengli. Earlier, when Wei Chengli offered to take a few photos of him, he refused, afraid of delaying the babies’ photo-taking time. He didn’t know when this guy took these photos. And they were all… Hahaha, they were quite good.

    Even Cheng Rongrong, looking at the cute and lively photos of herself, couldn’t help but praise Wei Chengli in her heart. It’s just… if only he was as good at raising children as he was at taking pictures.

    Wei Chengli, unaware of the others’ thoughts, after distributing the photos, he picked out a handful of the little chubby dumpling’s and looked at them repeatedly. Happy! Everyone was so cooperative, they not only completed the task today, but he also took many, many photos of the cute little chubby princess! Bliss!

    The joy in the car, captured by the camera, was transmitted to the live broadcast room, and then collided with… a chorus of “sob, sob, sob.”

    “Crying, the pain of being in Shudian but not being able to meet the adorable babies, who can understand!”

    “Sob, sob, sob, I understand! I’m also in Shudian! Because the babies were wearing ancient costumes, I even cleverly went to the ancient town area in advance! But… they didn’t take the tourist route! I only saw them from afar at the entrance, then they went to a restricted area! Leaving me here, crying my heart out!”

    “Hahaha, it seems they truly didn’t take the tourist route, there were many passersby in the background when CEO Mao and Yan Yan were taking pictures at the entrance, then they basically didn’t encounter any more people. But it can’t be helped, it’s a live broadcast, they have to consider many things, they can’t be with too many uncontrollable people.”

    “They probably went to the area specifically for filming, I seemed to have seen cameras in the distance later, I wonder if it was another film crew.”

    “Speaking of which, Director Wei was truly happy today, he was smiling like a proud uncle for the entire afternoon. But thinking about it, if I could spend the whole afternoon taking pictures of the adorable CEO Mao and Yan Yan, I would also be smiling like that. Sob, sob, sob, let me smile!”

    “Didn’t the program team say they’re going to the night market tonight? Does anyone know where there’s a night market in Shudian? I’m in Shudian, very urgent!”

    “Hahaha, the person above, don’t even think about it. They didn’t even let them interact with tourists for something like taking pictures, which is long-distance, the night market, which involves close interaction, definitely can’t be a night market for tourists. It must be pre-arranged. Why don’t you go and see if anyone is recruiting extras for a night market scene in Shudian, you might have a better chance.”

    “!!! Such a brilliant idea! I’m going to find the casting director’s number now!”

    …

    Unlike the viewers’ anticipation and excitement for the night market, the babies, exhausted after a long day, couldn’t stay awake for long on the bus ride back, one by one, they fell asleep.

    “You want to protect her?”

    “Dream on.”

    “You’re useless!”

    “Hahaha!!!”

    Yan Yan, lying on the ground, clutching her ankle, tears streaming down her face. Cheng Rongrong, standing next to her, hands on her hips, laughing.

    Wei Maomao, anger surging through her, rushed over with all her might.

    “Ah!”

    A sharp cry of pain, close by, shattered everything.

    Cheng Rongrong, clutching her leg, looked at the little chubby menace next to her, who had just kicked her, her eyes wide open.

    Those eyes…

    Cheng Rongrong was so scared by the fierceness in those eyes that she couldn’t even finish her cry of pain.

    But the loud first half of her cry had already startled the other babies in the living room.

    “What happened?” Wen Jiangyue, who was closest, immediately ran to the sofa.

    Shen Zilin and Wang Zhizhi, who were playing with blocks by the coffee table, also put down their blocks and followed.

    Wen Dongyu looked down at the juice that had spilled all over his pants after being startled by the scream, he didn’t know whether he should go and see what happened or scream too.

    “I just woke up, I just sat up, and Maomao… Little Sister Maomao kicked me.” Cheng Rongrong said, aggrieved, pressing on the spot where she was kicked.

    “Sorry, I dreamed about a monster.” Wei Maomao said, sitting up, looking at Cheng Rongrong, she apologized sincerely, then looked around, a bit anxious. “Where’s Yan Yan?”

    As soon as she opened her eyes, Wei Maomao knew that the scene that had almost made her explode with anger was just a dream. But it was so vivid that it took her a while to calm down and speak.

    “It’s okay…” Cheng Rongrong said quickly, but she continued rubbing her leg and even wiped away two forced tears.

    “Sister Su Li took her upstairs to comb her hair. Our hair got a bit messy while we were sleeping. Maomao, yours needs to be combed too later.” Wen Jiangyue said, after answering Wei Maomao, she pulled Cheng Rongrong’s hand away and looked at the spot she had been rubbing. “Did she kick you here?”

    Cheng Rongrong nodded tearfully.

    “It’s your calf, where there’s muscle, the bone wouldn’t be injured.” Wen Jiangyue said, leaning closer to examine it. “It’s a bit red, but not bruised, Rongrong, don’t be afraid.”

    “You were pressing your hand so hard that it dented your leg, of course, it would be red.” Wang Zhizhi said, leaning against the sofa next to them, he pressed and rubbed his right arm with his left hand. “See?”

    Cheng Rongrong: “… “

    Was he crazy! Did he have a permanent anti-second-child filter? Although she did use a little trick to make it look worse, it truly hurt when she was kicked!

    “Sorry.” Wei Maomao apologized again, she had nothing to argue about, even though she was asleep and unconscious when she kicked her, it was still her foot, she did kick her.

    “It’s…” Cheng Rongrong was about to reply again when the living room door suddenly opened.

    Cheng Tingyan, who had just pushed open the door, was met with six pairs of complicated eyes.

    “What happened?” Cheng Tingyan asked instinctively.

    Shen Zilin cleared his throat and briefly explained what had happened while she was away.

    “It was her calf, no bruising. Maomao apologized. Twice.” Wang Zhizhi added the information he deemed important.

    Shen Zilin: “… “

    Cheng Tingyan, as she listened, quickly walked to the sofa.

    Wen Jiangyue, who was sitting next to Cheng Rongrong, stood up and made space for Cheng Tingyan. She pointed at Cheng Rongrong’s leg and said, “Yan Yan, come and take a look.”

    “… “ Cheng Tingyan stopped and looked at Cheng Rongrong. “Are you okay? Should we call Dad?”

    “I’m fine, it doesn’t hurt anymore, no need to call Dad.” Cheng Rongrong said, putting on a brave face.

    But before she could even continue her act, she saw Cheng Tingyan turn her head away, ignoring her, and instead, she walked over to the little chubby menace and squatted down next to her.

    “Maomao… Don’t be afraid, dreams are fake.” Cheng Tingyan said, gently lifting the thin blanket covering Wei Maomao, she grabbed her two chubby feet and squeezed them. “Are your feet okay? Which foot kicked her? Wiggle your toes and see if it hurts…”

    Cheng Rongrong: “… “ Although she didn’t need Cheng Tingyan’s concern, was the contrast really that stark? She was the one who was kicked!

    Cheng Tingyan’s concern was so swift and misplaced, Wei Maomao didn’t even have time to react, her two feet were already in Cheng Tingyan’s hands.

    Those were her feet!

    Wei Maomao, realizing it, immediately tried to retract her feet, wanting to hide them under the blanket.

    However…

    It was Yan Yan.

    The six-year-old Yan Yan, who always had her own persistence.

    Once her chubby little feet were caught, how could she escape?

    What else could Wei Maomao do? She could only wiggle each toe obediently, then even stood up and jumped twice to prove that she was truly fine.

    The viewers in the live broadcast room were also… speechless.

    “Hahaha, with CEO Mao’s chubby little feet, it must have hurt to be kicked. But as for injuries, it’s unlikely for either side to be injured. After all, chubbiness provides natural cushioning.”

    “Rongrong is a bit pitiful here, she was the one who was kicked, but Yan Yan only cares about Maomao.”

    “??? How is it only Maomao? Didn’t Yan Yan ask Cheng Rongrong if she was okay, and only went to check on CEO Mao after she said she was fine!”

    “Whether it’s a casual question or genuine concern, it’s quite obvious. But it’s also normal, people have different levels of closeness. Although Yan Yan and Cheng Rongrong are half-sisters, but after watching the show until now, there’s clearly no sisterly love between them. But CEO Mao, who can resist a cute little chubby who wholeheartedly likes and protects you?”

    “Half-sisters, the bond is just like that, honestly, if someone was constantly being passive-aggressive in front of me, and I even comforted them… I would be considered kind for not kicking them.”

    “It’s still Cheng Feiying’s fault. Earlier, on the way back, all three little ones fell asleep, when they reached the villa, Yan Yan woke up, just as Cheng Feiying’s car arrived, Director Wei carried CEO Mao in first, Cheng Feiying went to carry Cheng Rongrong, it was Cheng Feiying who placed Cheng Rongrong next to CEO Mao. There were other empty spots on the sofa, why did he have to put her so close?”

    “Hahaha, although Cheng Feiying is annoying, we can’t blame him for this. He didn’t know it would happen. And CEO Mao didn’t do it on purpose either. It was just an accident, if we have to blame someone, we can only blame the monster in CEO Mao’s dream. But looking at the close-up of Cheng Rongrong, it doesn’t seem like she’s injured.”

    …

    An accident?

    It truly was.

    Was there an injury?

    Truly not.

    The babies, who finally noticed and started to worry about Wen Dongyu’s juice-stained pants, didn’t notice that Cheng Rongrong, sitting on the sofa, was staring at her reddened calf, a new thought flashing in her dark eyes.

    Before leaving for the night market, the host came on stage to tally the results of the afternoon’s photo-taking task. Because the program team had given them enough time, except for Wen Qiming, who had a bad sense of direction and only managed to take twenty-seven photos, the other families all completed the thirty-photo task. But during the tallying, two of Cheng Feiying’s photos were found to be taken at the wrong locations, he was kicked out of the first-place group.

    The program team’s generosity continued with the distribution of copper coins, those who completed all the tasks and those who were just a little bit short received almost the same amount, giving the dads and babies, who had been under the sun all afternoon, some comfort.

    As some viewers in the live broadcast room had predicted, the night market the program team took them to wasn’t one of the popular ones frequented by tourists near Shudian. It seemed like they had entered the film and television city and used a street set to create one. After all… the vendors and passersby were all in ancient costumes, matching the babies, they must all be NPCs!

    Unlike the viewers who were in Shudian but couldn’t have a chance encounter, crying and complaining about the fake night market, asking them to let the little babies experience the real world…

    The babies were having a great time at the night market meticulously set up by the program team.

    Grilled skewers, candy floss, pan-fried dumplings, fried glutinous rice balls, cheese corn, takoyaki, DIY(do-it-yourself) mini hot pot…

    Ring toss, claw machines, whack-a-mole, goldfish scooping, ball throwing, doll painting…

    The babies ate their way from one end of the street to the other, then played their way back, they were like mice that had fallen into a rice jar, completely engrossed.

    As for the dads…

    “Maomao, come here, let me see how many copper coins you have left.” Wei Chengli said, raising his soapy hand.

    “What? You want another serving of this? No, don’t eat it, go eat something else, the others don’t need washing.” Wang Qingchuan said, refusing.

    “Let him eat if he wants to, it’s just a small pot and bowl, it’s quick to wash.” Wen Xiang said, persuading Wang Qingchuan, then looked at Wen Dongyu, who was following behind Wei Maomao, leading the pig. “Dongdong, do you want another serving of this?”

    Wen Dongyu shook his head. “Cooking is too difficult, the food I made was terrible.”

    That’s right, at the night market, the babies were responsible for spending the copper coins, and the dads were responsible for… cleaning up.

    Each baby had a small pot the size of their palm, they cooked a few dishes under the dads’ supervision, using small solid alcohol blocks, then ate and left. The dads had to wash the pots and bowls.

    The babies painted dolls with paint, painted, painted, then left, the dads had to clean up the tables.

    Of course, they could choose not to do it, but they had to pay double the copper coins as a cleaning fee.

    The program team only gave them a limited amount of copper coins, and the babies were having so much fun, the dads could only try to save as much as possible. The other dads all chose to work, Wang Qingchuan and Cheng Feiying could only follow suit, they couldn’t stand out.

    Night deepened.

    The dads carried the babies, who were exhausted after a long day and couldn’t walk anymore, they also carried the dolls, goldfish, and balls they had won, and finally headed back.

    Back at the villa, they put the yawning babies down at the doors of their bedrooms on the second floor.

    Wei Chengli helped to remove Maomao’s microphone and watched as the little chubby princess, hand in hand with her beloved Yan Yan, entered the bedroom.

    Speaking of which… After this whole day, he still hadn’t found a chance to talk to the little chubby dumpling alone.

    But Wei Chengli didn’t expect that this tiring day wasn’t over yet, not long after, the opportunity came.

    Wen Jiangyue entered the room, placed the things she had won at the night market by her bed, then turned to Wei Maomao. “Maomao, just like before, let’s shower in order of age, you go first.”

    “I’ve already gone first several times, let’s reverse the order this time.” Wei Maomao said, glancing at Cheng Tingyan.

    “You go.” Cheng Tingyan said, reaching out to remove the tassel hair ornaments from Wei Maomao’s hair.

    Since she said so, Wei Maomao didn’t waste time being polite, she also started removing them herself, they quickly finished and let their hair down.

    But before entering the bathroom, Wei Maomao didn’t forget to take out a plush toy from her night market loot and give it to Cheng Rongrong.

    “I kicked you this afternoon, I’m sorry, this is for you.” Wei Maomao said, stuffing the tiger plush into Cheng Rongrong’s hands.

    Cheng Rongrong was stunned, she instinctively looked at Cheng Tingyan. Cheng Tingyan was calm and peaceful, even with a hint of a smile… as she looked at the little chubby menace in front of her.

    Okay… She was actually this generous, not jealous at all… It seemed they had discussed it before giving her this gift.

    Not seeing Cheng Tingyan’s disappointment, Cheng Rongrong, feeling a bit let down, took the plush toy and mumbled another “It’s okay.”

    Wei Maomao, having settled one matter, happily went to take a shower.

    Cheng Rongrong waited for the little chubby menace to enter the bathroom, then waited for a while longer, she looked at Wen Jiangyue and said softly, “Sister Wen, my feet are sore, I want to sit for a bit, can we switch? You shower first after Little Sister Maomao, then I’ll go, okay?”

    “Okay.” Wen Jiangyue nodded in agreement, then looked at Cheng Tingyan. “How about Yan Yan goes first? Then Rongrong.”

    Cheng Rongrong’s fist clenched slightly, she couldn’t help but look at Cheng Tingyan too.

    “You go first.” Cheng Tingyan said concisely, then pointed at the things on the floor they had just brought back. “I’m going to organize my things.”

    Cheng Rongrong’s fist slowly unclenched.

    The babies, one after another, went from dirty to fragrant.

    Cheng Tingyan finished organizing her things, dried the little chubby bunny’s hair, then untied her own hair. After waiting for a while, the bathroom was finally empty.

    But just as she picked up her small basket, about to go take a shower, the little chubby bunny, who had been lying peacefully in bed, suddenly jumped off the bed.

    “What’s wrong?” Cheng Tingyan asked, stopping.

    “I need to go to the bathroom. Yan Yan, you go take a shower, I’ll go to the bathroom downstairs.” Wei Maomao said, clutching her stomach, she had a bad feeling, the things she ate at the night market flashed before her eyes.

    “Your shoes are still wet, don’t go downstairs, the stairs are slippery.” Cheng Tingyan said, stopping the little chubby bunny who was about to rush out the door, she pushed her towards the bathroom. “Take your time, don’t rush.”

    Her stomach was in an emergency, Wei Maomao didn’t have the energy to resist, she could only follow Cheng Tingyan’s push and enter the bathroom, using the last bit of her brain to quickly close the door behind her.

    Outside the door was Cheng Tingyan, her face full of worry.

    And in the bedroom not far away…

    Cheng Rongrong, who had just finished showering, her hair still wet, had been listening to their conversation, she clutched the hairdryer in her hand, unable to press the button.

    “Ah!”

    A scream and the sound of something heavy hitting the floor came from the bathroom simultaneously.

    Just one door away, Cheng Tingyan, who hadn’t left yet, her mind went blank.

  • You’re Not Allowed to Kiss Me Anymore! [Quick Transmigration] 48p1

    Chapter 48 p1

    Xin Yao cupped Xu Jingyu’s face in her hands, gently wiping away the tear that had escaped her eye.

    “I’m fine. It’s just a small scratch. It looks worse than it is. It doesn’t even hurt.”

    “Why are you so upset?”

    Xu Jingyu took Xin Yao’s hand, her grip tight.

    “I heard them say… that you had been shot. I thought…”

    She hadn’t been able to think, her body moving on instinct, driven by a primal fear.

    Now, recalling the sudden surge of terror, she felt a strange sense of detachment, as if she had almost lost Xin Yao in a past life.

    Seeing the lingering fear in Xu Jingyu’s eyes, Xin Yao’s gaze softened, and she was about to speak when Xi Yue, the set medic, interrupted them.

    “Ms. Xu, don’t worry too much. I’ve examined the wound. It’s just a graze from a plastic pellet. It didn’t hit any bones. Just a flesh wound. She’ll be fine.”

    “Could you please step aside so I can treat her wound?”

    Now that they had confirmed Xin Yao was unharmed, treating her wound was the priority.

    Xu Jingyu nodded, stepping aside to give Xi Yue access to Xin Yao’s leg.

    She stood there, her gaze fixed on Xin Yao, her eyes filled with concern.

    Xin Yao gave her a reassuring smile, then lifted her skirt slightly, revealing the wound.

    As she did, her wrist was also exposed, the scar on her left wrist visible in the dim light.

    Xin Yao hadn’t been particularly bothered by the scar.

    After leaving the hospital, she had been so distressed that she had asked the system for medication, and the wound had healed quickly, the pain fading.

    But the scar remained.

    She usually covered it with makeup while filming.

    But lately, she had been too busy, waking up too early, to bother with it.

    And with the arrival of winter, her long sleeves had hidden it.

    Until now.

    Xin Yao, still focused on her leg, hadn’t noticed the scar.

    But Xi Yue, kneeling before her, treating the wound, and Qian Yu, a crew member who had helped Xin Yao earlier, both saw it.

    Their eyes widened in shock, their breaths catching in their throats, their gazes meeting in a shared moment of horror.

    But they weren’t the only ones who saw it. Xu Jingyu, standing beside them, had also seen the scar.

    Her eyes, already dark and intense, narrowed further, her heart clenching with a sudden, sharp pain.

    She remembered.

    The first time she had met Xin Yao, her wrist had been bandaged.

    She had asked about it, but Xin Yao had dismissed it, and Xu Jingyu, still a stranger, hadn’t pressed further.

    She hadn’t realized the wound had been so deep.

    How much pain had she endured?

    She knew Xin Yao hated pain.

    And yet, she had inflicted such a deep wound upon herself.

    Xu Jingyu couldn’t imagine the depth of her despair.

    It must have been… after her breakup with Li Xu.

    Xu Jingyu’s eyes darkened.

    Xin Yao hadn’t mentioned Li Xu, or the scandal, for a long time.

    It wasn’t because she had been focused on her work, but because Xu Jingyu had made sure of it, using her influence to suppress the negative press, to protect Xin Yao from further harm.

    Initially, she hadn’t cared about the truth of the rumors, simply wanting to meet Xin Yao.

    And after meeting her, she had known that the accusations were false.

    She had wanted to deal with Li Xu, to punish him for his cruelty, but Xin Yao had said she wanted to handle it herself, so Xu Jingyu had relented.

    Then, caught up in their whirlwind romance, she had forgotten about it.

    Until now, seeing the scar on Xin Yao’s wrist, she realized, with a sudden pang of jealousy, that Xin Yao had loved someone else, that she had been hurt.

    The pain in her heart was real, the bittersweet ache a reminder of Xin Yao’s past.

    She had been trying so hard to understand what it meant to love, and she had finally realized that she loved Xin Yao.

    But what about Xin Yao? Did she feel the same way?

    Xu Jingyu had assumed she did.

    But now, she wasn’t so sure.

    Just two months ago, Xin Yao had still been deeply in love with Li Xu, her despair so profound that she had harmed herself.

    Did she still have feelings for him?

    Xu Jingyu’s eyes darkened, her fingers clenching into fists.

    Li Xu?

    Ridiculous.

    As Xu Jingyu’s thoughts spiraled downwards, her jealousy turning into a dangerous obsession, Xi Yue finished bandaging Xin Yao’s leg.

    But she still needed to go to the hospital for a check-up, just to be safe.

    Filming was suspended for now.

    Director Gao, hearing about the accident, had rushed over, but her short legs hadn’t carried her very far, and she was still trying to push her way through the crowd.

    “Yaoyao, are you okay?!” she called out.

    Xin Yao, supported by Qian Yu, smiled reassuringly.

    “Don’t worry, Director! I’m fine! It doesn’t even hurt!”

    Xu Jingyu walked over and helped support Xin Yao, knowing she was lying, that she must be in pain.

    She wanted to carry her, or at least offer her a piggyback ride, but she hesitated, unsure if Xin Yao would welcome her touch.

    The usually aloof and untouchable Xu Jingyu now found herself filled with anxieties, her greatest fear being Xin Yao’s rejection.

    She knew she wasn’t the most approachable person, her personality cold and reserved.

    She was afraid Xin Yao would find her unpleasant.

    So, instead of embracing her, she simply draped her coat over Xin Yao’s shoulders, her touch gentle and supportive.

    Xin Yao’s injury, while not serious, required a few days of rest. She couldn’t film for now.

    She felt guilty for delaying the production.

    She had always been like this, happy to help others, but uncomfortable accepting help herself, always feeling like a burden.

    Not knowing what else to do, she asked Chen Jia to treat the crew to a barbecue dinner as a gesture of apology.

    Xin Yao, still recovering, couldn’t attend the dinner, and Xu Jingyu, staying by her side, also didn’t go.

    The crew, gathered at the barbecue restaurant, were touched by Xin Yao’s generosity, her thoughtfulness despite her own injury.

    The culprit behind the accident had been found: a student working part-time on the set.

    He had been nervous, and with the loud sound effects, his hand had slipped as he fired the prop gun, the plastic pellet, meant for a sandbag, hitting Xin Yao instead.

    The student, horrified at having injured someone, especially a celebrity, had been distraught.

    He came from a poor family, his mother ill, and he had been working part-time to pay for his tuition.

    Xin Yao, despite her own injury, had gone to see him, her voice gentle and reassuring.

    “It’s okay. It’s just a scratch. It doesn’t even hurt. Don’t worry about it. Just focus on your studies. But be more careful next time, okay?”

    It had been snowing that day.

    Xin Yao had stood there, in the soft glow of the streetlights, her smile warm and comforting.

    The student had thought she was an angel.

    Now, sitting at the barbecue restaurant, he was crying, his guilt overwhelming.

    The other crew members, knowing what had happened, were even more impressed by Xin Yao’s kindness.

    “She’s such a nice person. So kind, so cheerful, so thoughtful.”

    And wherever someone praised Xin Yao, the makeup artist would appear, nodding eagerly.

    “I know, right?! She’s amazing! Those online rumors are complete bullshit!”

    Her words sparked a chorus of agreement.

    “Exactly!”

    “I thought I was the only one who felt that way!”

    “Those reports are ridiculous! How could I have believed them?”

    The online articles had painted Xin Yao as a manipulative, scheming homewrecker, a villain.

    But the crew, having worked with her for so long, knew better.

    While some celebrities wore masks, they weren’t fools. They could see through the facades.

    Xin Yao was genuine, kind, and charismatic.

    Li Xu, on the other hand, seemed fake, his charm a carefully constructed facade.

    “I don’t think she’s like that at all.”

    “But I’m curious what really happened.”

    “What else? The scumbag probably cheated on her with a rich woman, then dumped her and denied their relationship. It’s common in this industry. Li Xu is a social climber. Everyone knows that.”

    “Oh my god, if that’s true, then Ms. Xin is so pitiful!”

    Xi Yue and Qian Yu, sitting in a corner, exchanged glances, their eyes filled with sympathy, thinking: It’s even worse than that.

    That cheerful, optimistic young woman had been driven to the brink of suicide.

    But it was a private matter, a secret they couldn’t reveal.

    Xi Yue, her anger growing, slammed her hand on the table.

    “I’m officially a Xin Yao stan! She’s too precious!”

    The student, hearing her words, also slammed his hand on the table.

    “If anyone dares to say anything bad about Sister Xin Yao, I’ll fight them!”

    Xin Yao, unintentionally, had gained several new fans.

    While Xin Yao recovered from her injury, Xu Jingyu visited her every day.

    But she didn’t stay with Xin Yao constantly.

    For example, that afternoon, seeing Xin Yao asleep, she hadn’t wanted to disturb her and had returned to her own room.

    The weather was unusually sunny for this time of year, and Xu Jingyu sat on the sofa by the window, basking in the warm sunlight, a book covering her face.

    Meng Wanqing, uninvited as always, sat down beside her, eating ice cream.

    Xue Ning, perched on the armrest of the sofa, cracked sunflower seeds, the shells scattering on the floor.

    They hadn’t wanted to visit Xu Jingyu, knowing her mood had been foul lately.

    But her bad mood affected everyone, so they had come to check on her.

    Meng Wanqing, always restless, after finishing her ice cream, leaned closer to Xu Jingyu, trying to see what she was reading.

    The book’s cover, pink and white, was eye-catching, the title bold and clear:

    “How to Make Someone Fall in Love with You”

    Meng Wanqing almost burst out laughing, biting her lip to stifle the sound.

    Then, she noticed the other books on the coffee table:

    “What is Love?”, “100 Little Things to Do with Your Lover”, “How to Make Your Lover Obsessed with You”, “A Guide to Forced Love”

    Something seemed out of place.

    But it didn’t matter.

    Meng Wanqing couldn’t contain herself any longer. She giggled.

    “Someone’s trying to become a love expert.”

    Xue Ning, still cracking sunflower seeds, muttered, “Shut up.”

    “Some people are so worried about whether someone likes them that they can’t even bring themselves to hug them. And you’re making fun of them.”

    “Tsk, tsk, tsk,” Meng Wanqing shook her head, a playful smile on her face. “I still can’t believe Xu Jingyu has a crush. It’s so surreal.”

    “I thought she was going to be a lonely old spinster, still tormenting me at the age of 80.”

    Xue Ning tossed a sunflower seed shell onto the floor. “Shut up, Meng Wanqing. She’s right beside you. If you keep talking, she’ll kill you before you reach 80.”

    “So, who is she in love with?”

    “Who do you think?”

    “Xin Yao, obviously!” But then Meng Wanqing frowned. “But Xin Yao is so nice! She’s so cheerful and fun to be around! How could she possibly like Ice Queen Xu Jingyu?”

    Xu Jingyu, who had been agonizing over whether Xin Yao liked her, Meng Wanqing’s words striking a nerve, removed the book from her face and glared at her.

    Meng Wanqing, seeing her expression, zipped her lips.

    Xue Ning, having finished her sunflower seeds, clapped her hands together.

    “But didn’t Xin Yao like Li Xu? I heard she was really in love with him. Regardless of whether the rumors were true or not, her feelings were real, weren’t they?”

    “You’ll have to work harder, President Xu.”

    Xu Jingyu leaned back against the sofa, her eyes narrowing slightly. “I’ve heard that name far too many times lately. It’s annoying.”

    “And the Mo family. Also annoying.”

    “I don’t want to hear about them again, Xue Ning. Is that clear?”

    Xue Ning whistled. “Whoa, President Xu, are you planning to steal her away? Don’t worry, leave it to me! I’ll get your little wife back for you!”

    Her words were meant to be a joke.

    But Xu Jingyu’s gaze, cold and serious, held no trace of humor.

    “What?”

    “Is it wrong to want her back?”

    “I can do it. I can win.”

    Li Xu? He was nothing compared to her.

    Her words, so simple yet so forceful, stunned the other two women into silence.

    The room was quiet, the air thick with tension.

    Finally, Meng Wanqing, unable to contain herself, blurted out, “Are you crazy?!”

    Xu Jingyu didn’t reply, simply looking down at the sunlight on her palm, her expression unreadable.

    She wasn’t crazy.

    In fact, she had never been more lucid.

    Xin Yao’s leg injury healed quickly after a few days of rest.

    During her absence, the director had focused on filming Xu Jingyu’s scenes.

    Xu Jingyu, usually aloof and reserved, her mood further darkened by her anxieties, had been even colder and more distant than usual, her presence casting a pall over the entire set.

    Until Xin Yao returned.

    She arrived on set, dressed in her costume, her smile bright as she greeted everyone.

    “Good morning, everyone!”

    The crew, hearing her voice, turned to look at her, their faces lighting up.

    “Ms. Xin, you’re back!”

    “Good morning!”

    “Have you had breakfast yet, Ms. Xin?”

    Their cheerful greetings filled the air, the set suddenly coming alive.

    After exchanging pleasantries, Xin Yao, not wanting to waste any time, quickly got into character, resuming the scene where she had been injured.

    Lu Duanjing, witnessing the horrors of the slums, her eyes filled with tears, her mind reeling from the shock, hadn’t even noticed the danger.

    It was Wen Sigu who had come to her rescue, wrapping her in her coat and leading her away.

    After that day, Lu Duanjing hadn’t been able to sleep, the images of the slums haunting her dreams.

    She had fallen ill, a high fever gripping her body, refusing to break.

    Wen Sigu, worried, had come to visit her.

    Hearing Wen Sigu’s voice, Lu Duanjing had finally opened her eyes, finding the strength to take her medicine.

    She had spent the rest of the day in a feverish daze, her hand clutching Wen Sigu’s, as if holding onto a lifeline.

    Wen Sigu hadn’t been able to, or hadn’t wanted to, let go.

    She had sat by Lu Duanjing’s bedside all night, holding her hand, her gaze fixed on her face.

  • The Grotesque Miss’s End Story v2c56

    Chapter Fifty-Six: The Loyal Felix

    Even at night, the grand cathedral bustled with devout believers, soothing hymns echoing through the hall, the choir singing solemnly from the gallery.

    Passersby, seeing the middle-aged man in church robes at the entrance, bowed respectfully, their faces adorned with gentle smiles, an air of peace and contentment pervading the atmosphere.

    “This… isn’t right, is it?”

    Religious was filled with disbelief, his first thought being that he had gotten lost and somehow returned to his former workplace.

    However, no matter how he checked his location… he was indeed in the right place, near the dilapidated church in the slums.

    Had the city government funded its renovation?

    But that seemed unlikely. A cathedral of this scale, second only to Victoria’s most famous one, would require immense resources and manpower, something only the wealthiest districts could afford.

    Slocken District was among Victoria’s poorest, with countless problems to address. Where would they find the funds to renovate the slums and build such a grand cathedral?

    So… what was going on?

    After a long period of hesitation, Religious finally entered the cathedral.

    Everything was familiar, so familiar that he could navigate it blindfolded.

    He had once been a priest here, a devout follower of the state religion, until he became an Awakened One, witnessing the true nature of the world, realizing the absurdity of his former faith.

    After a series of events, he had joined the Harbingers of Calamity.

    A flicker of complex emotions crossed Religious’s eyes, quickly suppressed as he walked towards the area where the priests and nuns rested, intending to inquire about the cathedral’s situation.

    With his demeanor and attire, no one stopped him, only bowing respectfully as he passed.

    At the same time, he contacted Felix, asking about the new location of the Church of Light.

    Before his seclusion, Religious had entrusted all matters to Felix, believing him capable of managing all the Harbingers’ churches, but he hadn’t expected such a catastrophic blunder.

    Religious’s expression darkened.

    “It seems these blind fools are unreliable after all…”

    He hoped they hadn’t lost too many churches, even retaining a third would be enough.

    Starting from scratch would take time.

    His premature emergence from seclusion was due to unforeseen circumstances, and Educator was already displeased. If his own arrangements had also gone awry… Philosopher would surely reprimand him.

    His unexpected good fortune might be over, the position of the fourth Authority wielder perhaps taken by another Harbinger…

    With a sense of unease, Religious inquired about the priest in charge of this cathedral, quickly making his way to the designated room.

    Standing before the door, Religious took a few deep breaths, composing himself, pushing aside his worries, a gentle, benevolent smile appearing on his face, just like when he was a priest.

    Now, he truly resembled a fellow clergyman paying a visit.

    After three knocks, a familiar voice answered, and he pushed the door open.

    “Excuse me, Father… huh?”

    Religious’s words were cut short as he saw the priest’s face, his mind racing.

    He searched his memories, trying to deny what he saw, but only one conclusion remained.

    “Felix…?”

    “Indeed, Educator.”

    Despite wearing the same robes, Felix still bowed respectfully. “I just received your message and was about to reply, but I didn’t expect you to…”

    “What is going on here?”

    Religious’s expression turned cold, the atmosphere in the room instantly chilling. His previous warmth vanished, replaced by a menacing aura.

    As a high-order Awakened One, his presence was oppressive, and Felix immediately knelt down, his knees trembling.

    Felix hesitated for a moment, then felt an invisible force constricting his throat, his face turning red, his eyes bulging.

    “Ah… ugh…”

    He struggled, but an unseen power held him in place.

    “Why… did you betray me?”

    Religious stared at the struggling Felix, his killing intent undisguised.

    His fingers twitched. A single wrong answer from Felix would be his last.

    As a former priest and religious scholar, Religious was well-versed in various religions. Everything within this cathedral was familiar.

    The layout, the mass procedures, and most importantly… the statue on the altar, clearly belonging to the Victorian state religion, completely different from his previous instructions.

    Religious’s goal was to establish a connection with a Grotesquery through sacrifices, to steal its power or perform other rituals.

    The state religion’s deity wasn’t a Grotesquery, what was the point of sacrificing to it?!

    If sacrifices to it were effective, the previous churches wouldn’t have struggled so much, their scale limited to a few dozen or a hundred members, requiring multiple locations to barely function.

    As a scholar of religion, Religious despised cults, but his own methods couldn’t solve the problems of traditional religious practices, so he had resorted to cults and coercion, quickly establishing sacrificial sites.

    The advantage was that it didn’t require promoting faith or proselytizing, only brute force, although Religious disliked such methods.

    Seeing Felix as a priest in this grand cathedral, Religious’s first thought was betrayal.

    After his departure, Felix had abandoned the cult, converting to the state religion, even attracting official support, building this grand cathedral.

    If Religious were still a pure religious scholar, he would have been happy about Felix’s return to the “right path.”

    But as “Educator,” he was furious that Felix had betrayed his trust, abandoning the cult for the state religion!

    Damn him!

    “I… didn’t… betray… Educator…”

    Felix managed to choke out the words, but Religious didn’t relent, the pressure intensifying.

    Only when Felix was on the verge of suffocation did Religious release him, allowing him to collapse to the floor, gasping for air.

    “No betrayal?” Religious sneered. “Then why did you abandon the Church of Light and convert to the Victorian state religion? Which kind-hearted priest led you back to the right path? I’d like to meet him.”

    “I… I… didn’t… abandon…”

    Felix gasped, struggling to speak. “This… is… the Church of Light’s… main cathedral…”

    “You’re lying, Felix. I know the Victorian state religion. You can’t fool me.”

    Religious looked down at the trembling Felix coldly. “Do you think you can escape my control? Don’t even think about it… you’re just a dog, expendable.”

    Felix, finally catching his breath, bowed deeply again. “Educator… you can check for yourself. I haven’t neglected your instructions…”

    “Impossible.”

    Religious didn’t believe him, but after a moment of hesitation, he contacted Philosopher mentally.

    All the church arrangements were under Philosopher’s direction, including the change in the sacrificial target.

    However, Religious didn’t know Philosopher’s motives. Stealing his Authority? Or experiencing the sensation of being a Grotesquery? He had no idea.

    Religious contacted Philosopher and, after a respectful inquiry, received an answer that silenced him.

    The sacrificial rituals were continuing, uninterrupted, even more stable than before.

    Previously, there had been occasional shortages or surpluses of sacrifices. Now, it was consistent, with rituals performed daily.

    Philosopher was very satisfied, even praising Religious and expressing his support for Educator’s choice of him as the fourth Authority wielder.

    With two out of three leaders supporting him, Religious’s ascension was practically guaranteed.

    “Wait…” Religious muttered, looking around in disbelief. “Is this… really my Church of Light?”

    “Yes, Educator.”

    Felix prostrated himself, trembling, fearing another attack.

    Religious’s expression turned strange, then he coughed awkwardly. “That was just a small test, Felix. I knew you wouldn’t betray me. Very good, very good… get up, the floor is cold.”

    “I wouldn’t dare, Educator.” Felix remained prostrate, his voice filled with fear. “I would never betray you! I’m just a dog, expendable!”

    “Cough, cough…”

    Religious coughed even harder, feeling that Felix was mocking him by repeating his words, but his trembling… indicated that he was sincere.

    He sighed, helping Felix up. “Don’t be ridiculous, Felix. You’re my most capable subordinate. I wouldn’t let you die.”

    With the misunderstanding cleared, Religious was even more pleased with Felix, having achieved his goal through orthodox methods.

    Although he didn’t know how Felix had managed it, it was impressive.

    Despite abandoning his former faith after witnessing the truth of the world, Religious still held some respect for it.

    Completing Philosopher’s task without resorting to Grotesquery worship or cult practices was a remarkable achievement.

    Religious even considered helping Felix become an Awakened One after his own ascension.

    Methods for forcibly awakening ordinary people existed, even within the Company, though the resources required were significant.

    Not for the awakening itself, but for maintaining sanity afterwards. Such resources were rare, and the opportunities limited.

    “You flatter me, Educator. I’ve merely done my duty.”

    Felix continued respectfully, presenting Religious with a map of the Church of Light’s current territory. “This is the result you instructed me to achieve within three months. Please examine it.”

    “Did I… instruct you to do this?”

    Religious took the map, searching his memories, his expression changing slightly. “Wasn’t that just a figure of speech? Educator often says that to me…”

    He unfolded the map and gasped, staring at Felix, wanting to accuse him of fabricating the data.

    But remembering the previous incident, Religious’s expression contorted before he finally spoke.

    “This… is your achievement?”

    The Church of Light’s territory had expanded several times over, even reaching several prosperous districts, the number of followers far exceeding his expectations. The results achieved in three months surpassed his own three years of effort.

    If this were true, Religious would question his own competence.

    Felix immediately knelt down again. “I have failed you! Please forgive me!”

    “…Is it fake after all?”

    Religious thought, then heard Felix continue,

    “I know my achievements are insignificant, unworthy of your satisfaction. Please punish me!”

    Religious’s lips twitched. If this was considered insignificant, his own previous efforts were practically dust.

    However, judging by the current situation, Felix seemed to be telling the truth…

    He had underestimated this ordinary person. Despite being blinded by the disordered world, he possessed remarkable talent.

    And most importantly, unwavering loyalty, remaining respectful even after the earlier incident, a valuable asset.

    Religious was increasingly pleased, his gaze filled with admiration.

    However, he was also puzzled. How had Felix achieved what even he couldn’t, maintaining the sacrificial rituals while practicing orthodox faith?

    It wasn’t simply a matter of hiding the sacrificial target behind the altar. The believers’ faith had to be focused on the target, even if not entirely.

    Philosopher had nothing to do with the state religion’s deity…

    Religious reached out, wanting to search Felix’s soul, but hesitated, remembering the earlier awkwardness.

    However, Felix’s loyalty had been proven. He could simply ask directly. Felix wouldn’t lie to him.

    “Having a trustworthy subordinate is truly a blessing…”

    Religious smiled faintly, finally feeling like a leader. He would soon be the Harbingers’ fourth leader, he had to get used to it.

    He shouldn’t micromanage, he had to delegate and trust his subordinates… like this time, if it were up to him, he couldn’t have achieved this.

    Religious withdrew his hand, placing it behind his back. “Felix, tell me… what has happened to the Church of Light in these past three months?”

    He smiled warmly, his gaze filled with trust.

    “I want to hear about the remarkable achievements of my most capable subordinate, especially regarding the sacrificial rituals. Tell me everything, in detail.”

    “Actually… I deserve no credit,” Felix lowered his head. “It’s all thanks to your teachings, and also…

    “Her Holiness, Saint Alyssa.”

    “Oh? Tell me more.”

    Religious’s interest was piqued.

    He knew that the previous “saints” were merely sacrifices, their status insignificant, unworthy of being addressed as “Your Holiness.”

    This Saint must be unusual.

    Trusting Felix, Religious didn’t suspect any foul play, simply wanting to learn more about this Saint.

    “Yes, Educator.”

    Felix nodded and began recounting Saint Alyssa’s story.

    Mostly information already known throughout Victoria, including how Alyssa became the Saint, her subsequent experiences, and the fact that the Church of Light was essentially a branch of the state religion worshipping her.

    In other words, within the Church of Light, Saint Alyssa was the living embodiment of their deity.

    Besides that, Felix highlighted the most crucial point: how the sacrificial rituals were maintained, through Saint Alyssa’s naturally powerful “Forbidden Puppet” constitution and her method of transferring faith.

    “Hmm…”

    Religious gasped, his expression turning thoughtful, then a hint of joy appeared.

    From the description, Religious deduced that Saint Alyssa possessed a natural affinity for Grotesqueries, destined to become a Grotesque-side Awakened One, precisely the kind of talent the Harbingers needed.

    More importantly… her aptitude might even rival the three Harbinger leaders.

    Performing sacrifices for months without fatigue far exceeded the capabilities of an ordinary Forbidden Puppet.

    Religious didn’t suspect that Alyssa was already an Awakened One. She had been sacrificed twice before, her injuries still unhealed.

    Even a newly awakened Awakened One wouldn’t be sacrificed by ordinary priests, let alone twice.

    Awakened Ones had a significant advantage over ordinary people, even those not on the Judgment path. Even a frail little girl could knock out an adult man.

    As for transferring faith… Religious had never encountered a Forbidden Puppet being worshipped while simultaneously sacrificing to and worshipping a Grotesquery, so he didn’t understand the specifics.

    “The Harbingers lost two leaders in the Jiangcheng County incident, forcing them into hiding, a very passive state, desperately needing new members. And now, such a promising candidate has appeared…”

    Religious’s eyes lit up, his voice filled with eagerness.

    “My most loyal Felix, quickly take me to this lady… I mean, Her Holiness.”

  • Reincarnated as a Holy Nun, I Refuse to Lose! v2c5

    Volume 2: Witch Kingdom Arc

    Chapter 5: A Leg-Weakening Punishment

    Doris gently held Luo Yuxi’s ankle, her touch light yet inescapable. Luo Yuxi could only watch as Doris, like a bee drawn to a fragrant flower, extracted her “honey.” She knew she couldn’t endure hours of a witch’s “lessons.”

    “Please, spare me, I can’t take it anymore…”

    “Not yet, we haven’t finished covering all the knowledge points and important equations~”

    Doris looked at Luo Yuxi, her arm covering her eyes, tears streaming down her face, seemingly without the strength to resist. Doris pressed against her, the weight of her body and her dominant aura overwhelming Luo Yuxi. Their breasts pressed together, a soft, squishy sensation.

    “Such sinfulness, such lewdness from a nun, tempting one to betray their faith…”

    Although Doris wasn’t as voluptuous as Luo Yuxi, she was still quite curvy. The best way to counter a “breast attack” was to return it in kind. Luo Yuxi simply leaned against Doris, creating a visually stimulating display, their breasts squished together, the perfect side ( ) view on full display.

    “It’s not like I wanted to grow these… please spare me…”

    Luo Yuxi had been surprised by her own beauty when she first arrived in this world. Now, it seemed her beauty had a purpose: to become a witch’s plaything.

    “You can’t blame others for being tempted by you. I should take you with me on missions, so I can ( ) anytime~”

    As Doris spoke, the potion took effect. Luo Yuxi felt her body shrinking, her slender fingers becoming small and cute, her D-cups deflating towards an A. Doris’s eyes lit up.

    “Finally, it’s working. It took long enough~”

    Luo Yuxi’s perspective shifted. After a few minutes, she was back in her loli form, even weaker than before. Doris easily pinned her wrists above her head with one hand.

    “Round two~”

    “No! Stop!”

    Luo Yuxi looked at Doris in terror, her hand moving towards her stomach. She hadn’t been so sensitive before, but in her loli form, Doris’s aura and long fingers were terrifying. A single finger could almost reach her chest. Faced with such an intense “lesson,” how could she not be afraid?

    “Stop it! I’ll ( ), I really will!!”

    “Then keep your healing magic active. You’re good at that, aren’t you~?”

    “No!! Stop!!!”

    Luo Yuxi’s struggles were just like a child’s tantrum to Doris. Under Doris’s skillful “guidance,” Luo Yuxi eventually fainted. When she woke up, the potion’s effect had worn off, and she was back to her normal form.

    “I’m… back to normal…”

    “Feeling good…?”

    Luo Yuxi looked around, her body once again covered in marks. She wondered if she could really save these witches. Was there even a point? She was just a plaything.

    “Don’t even think about escaping next time. I’ll help you increase your Order level. You’ll stay in this room forever, a caged bird, a canary~”

    Doris wiped her hands, got dressed, and looked at the exhausted Luo Yuxi, picking up the nun’s habit and the map from the table.

    “I don’t know who gave you this map, but it doesn’t matter. You can’t escape. I’m taking your clothes. If you want to escape, you can try wrapping yourself in a sheet, but you know what will happen~”

    Luo Yuxi didn’t respond to Doris’s threat, simply turning away and covering herself with the sheet. Doris snapped her fingers, and two golden chains appeared on Luo Yuxi’s ankles.

    The chains on her fair feet created a strangely alluring image of restrained beauty. Doris, seeing no reaction, left the room. Luo Yuxi, hearing the door close, couldn’t hold back her tears.

    “This is a nightmare. When I wake up, it’ll all be over…”

    Luo Yuxi tried to rest, but after just a few minutes, the door opened again. She turned listlessly, wondering who it was this time.

    “…”

    “They just ravaged me, and they’re back for more…?”

    Luo Yuxi sat up, covering herself with the sheet, but the pink marks on her body, like a natural-born succubus, were incredibly alluring. However, it wasn’t Doris. A girl shrouded in black mist entered the room.

    “So it’s you… wait… who… who are you…? Why do I feel a sense of familiarity…?”

    “Unpleasant memories… it’s better to forget…”

    The girl placed her hand on Luo Yuxi’s head, and her mind went blank. It felt familiar, like she had experienced this before. In her final moment of consciousness, she realized who this girl was.

    “You’re the one who helped me! Why are you—!!”

    Luo Yuxi lost consciousness. The black-robed girl placed a new set of clothes and a map on the bed before disappearing into the darkness. Luo Yuxi slowly came to.

    “Did someone come in…?”

    She looked around, confused, then saw the items on the bed, realizing someone had indeed been here. She had just forgotten.

    “The chains are gone again. And the map I had was taken. My escape plan was discovered before I could even try…”

    Luo Yuxi packed her clothes again, putting on a clean nun’s habit to cover the marks. She paused.

    “These marks should have healed. What did Doris do to me after discovering my escape plan…?”

    She realized she couldn’t afford to waste time. If another witch came, she would be “educated” again. Although she didn’t remember what had happened, it couldn’t have been good. It was better to forget.

    “Alright, according to the map—”

    “La la la, I’m here for dinner~”

    As Luo Yuxi reached the window, Ruo Li opened the door, looking at the messy room in surprise. It hadn’t been this messy when she left. Then she saw Luo Yuxi by the window. The air grew thick with tension.

    “What… are you doing there…?”

    “I’m enjoying the breeze, do you believe me…?”

    T/N:

    I guess ( ) are censored parts

    Author’s notes:

    (Ruo Li’s image inspiration) (Partially from the author’s imagination)