[Wuxia] Wandering Freely in the Tang Dynasty (Complete) - 12

Chapter 37 Jinqiao's Five Questions
That Night.
Upon hearing the news from his scouts that Yuan Yueze had been beaten and injured in the street by Empress Yin, Wang Shichong remained vigilant, sitting alone in his study, pondering.
As he delved deeper into the matter, various possibilities surfaced in his mind. Wang Shichong's head throbbed, his brows furrowed, and he closed his eyes to continue his contemplation.
"Huff!"
Another quarter of an hour passed, and his thoughts were still not clear. Wang Shichong let out a long breath, opened his eyes, and was suddenly utterly astonished.
A burly, black-clad figure had somehow appeared, arms crossed, sitting opposite Wang Shichong. Beneath a menacing black mask, two piercing, tiger-like eyes were scrutinizing Wang Shichong.
A subconscious sense of fear inexplicably gripped his heart, and Wang Shichong sat frozen in place.
"More than ten years have passed. Does Shichong not recognize me?"
the black-clad figure spoke. His voice was like an unyielding iceberg.
"Your subordinate pays respects to Your Majesty. Your Majesty's presence has overwhelmed me, and I have failed in my duty."
Wang Shichong, in a moment of surprise, recognized the other's identity and hastily knelt in obeisance.
"We haven't seen each other for many years. You have completed your mission excellently. I remember your merits."
The Holy Venerable's tone was no longer as cold as before, even carrying a hint of joy.
Wang Shichong was overjoyed and showered him with flattery.
"With Your Majesty's personal presence, the He Shi Bi jade will surely fall into the hands of our Holy Sect!"
Wang Shichong added, his eyes flashing with excitement.
"The matter has not yet occurred, and I cannot say I am entirely certain, but I am about 70-80% confident,"
the Holy Venerable replied.
Wang Shichong's heart turned cold: The Holy Venerable's cultivation had long since reached the Transcendent Realm; he could ascend to the Immortal Realm at any time. If he were interested in martial arts, the so-called 'Three Grandmasters' would be nothing but rubbish! But just now, hearing the Holy Venerable's tone, he seemed somewhat lacking in confidence—something that had never happened before!
Seeing the strange look flash across Wang Shichong's face, the Holy Venerable's mind raced, and he spoke, "Do you believe that I should have been absolutely certain?"
Wang Shichong nodded, "Holy Venerable's cultivation is celestial, invincible under heaven. I believe that no one in this world can rival your martial arts."
"For so many years, you have been obsessed with officialdom, forgetting your true self! The person who is 'invincible under heaven' will never appear."
The Holy Venerable sighed with some emotion.
Although Wang Shichong dared not show any reaction on the surface, he was very unconvinced in his heart. Almost all the high-ranking members of the sect had witnessed the Holy Venerable's abilities, so why was he being humble here?
"There will never be an 'invincible under heaven' in this world. In everyone's heart, there is someone who is impossible to defeat, and that is yourself! Every time you break through a limit, 'he' also breaks through. The stronger you are, the stronger 'he' will become. How can you defeat such an opponent? I am the same."
The Holy Venerable explained as if he could read people's minds. These few words alone reveal his profound moral cultivation and his unwavering humility.
"Your words, Holy One, are like a morning bell and evening drum, awakening me. I will remember them well and will certainly restrain my mind, not be misled by external things!"
Wang Shichong knelt again, as if enlightened.
"I just saw you frowning and deep in thought. Is there something you can't figure out?"
The Holy One nodded approvingly and asked.
"Your Holy One, I've been thinking about Yuan Yueze. Many theories have surfaced in my mind, and they all seem plausible. For example, the fact that he was injured in public today seems like a ruse to deceive outsiders and reduce their attention to him,"
Wang Shichong replied respectfully.
"What you say is also possible. I'm just worried that he might ruin our treasure-hunting plan,"
the Holy One agreed.
"However, if Yuan Yueze is faking his injury, he will remain quiet and secretly carry out his plan. But if he is truly injured, he will definitely do something to cover up his injury!"
The Holy Venerable looked out the window and said with certainty.
※※※※※ Yuan Yueze comforted his wives, then walked out of the room alone and sat down in the pavilion in the small but cozy courtyard. He quietly gazed at the starry night, thinking of his beloved, whose whereabouts were unknown.
A faint, fragrant breeze wafted by, and Yuan Yueze found himself in the arms of a beautiful, soft, and fragrant woman. Her slender arms were wrapped around his waist, and her head was pressed tightly against his chest, listening to his strong and warm heartbeat.
Looking down, he saw that the woman in his arms was none other than Zhu Yuyan, the 'Empress of Yin' who had severely injured Yuan Yueze in the street that morning, whom he hadn't seen for over a year.
Neither of them spoke, but their slightly trembling bodies told the other how excited they were.
Gently lifting Zhu Yuyan's chin, Yuan Yueze examined her closely: she looked several years younger than a year ago, as if her body cells were gradually being rejuvenated to their youthful state after reaching the highest level of the Heavenly Demon Technique. Her figure was even more exquisite, and the faint resentment between her brows seemed to tell Yuan Yueze the reason for her thinness. The cold and arrogant expression she had shown to outsiders had long since vanished, replaced by tenderness and a hazy, spring-like gaze fixed on Yuan Yueze. Her delicate face, as red as maple leaves, was slightly parted, trembling, and her luscious lips breathed
out fragrant nectar. Yuan Yueze held the warm jade tightly in his arms, and couldn't help but press his large lips to the beauty's cherry-like mouth, chasing and teasing her delicate tongue. After greedily licking the beauty's delicate tongue thoroughly, Yuan Yueze continued to suckle vigorously, savoring the sweet and fragrant nectar. Then, like a hungry ghost, he sucked the beauty's entire wet and slippery tongue into his mouth.
The pent-up longing in her heart finally erupted, and she only knew to respond to the affectionate man before her. Her curvaceous body writhed gently in Yuan Yueze's arms, as if seeking greater pleasure for herself, or perhaps satisfying Yuan Yueze's lust.
Yuan Yueze's hands had already climbed to the peaks of her undulating breasts, kneading the two erect nipples with varying pressure through the thin silk and undergarment.
The passionate kiss lasted for nearly a quarter of an hour. When they parted, Zhu Yuyan was completely lost in Yuan Yueze's embrace, panting heavily, her body heaving, her proud breasts trembling slightly. Yuan Yueze was left speechless and dumbfounded, his mouth dry. He couldn't help but swallow repeatedly, making strange sounds in his throat.
Zhu Yuyan, also overcome with lust, suddenly regained her senses in her hazy eyes. She hurriedly pressed down on Yuan Yueze, who was about to lift her up, and said in a trembling voice, "We have important matters to attend to!" Yuan Yueze,
who had been unable to restrain himself any longer, was suddenly jolted awake by her words, inwardly cursing himself for being foolish. The important matters came first.
"Are you hurt?"
Zhu Yuyan, now fully awake, began to gently squeeze Yuan Yueze's cheek.
Yuan Yueze chuckled and kissed her still-blushing face again: "How could I be hurt?"
Zhu Yuyan asked in surprise, "Didn't Meixian say that your bodies aren't yet indestructible?"
Yuan Yueze nodded: "Even so, our recovery speed is dozens of times faster than ordinary people. Tell me what happened!"
"I came here this morning and saw Meixian and Susu playing music at home. Meixian told me a plan, which led to what happened later."
Zhu Yuyan said, relieved, leaning against Yuan Yueze's chest.
“There’s a lot of undercurrent in Luoyang right now, and almost all the powers are focused on you, so Meixian came up with a plan to make you fake an injury. But your strength has been mythologized, and if you were injured by an ordinary person, it would only arouse more suspicion. Taking advantage of Yuyan’s arrival, Meixian suggested that someone else injure you,”
Zhu Yuyan continued to explain.
“Then why did they say they didn’t know when I asked Meixian and the others if they knew?”
Yuan Yueze frowned.
“That’s…that’s…Meixian wanted someone to explain it to you personally,”
Zhu Yuyan said shyly, feeling extremely grateful for her daughter’s understanding.
“Hey! Those two rascals, Kou Zhong and Kou Zhong, thought I was really injured. You’re almost becoming their obsession.”
Yuan Yueze said, but his hands didn’t stop, continuing to wander among the graceful mountains and valleys.
How could the forcibly suppressed desire withstand such provocation? Zhu Yuyan felt weak all over, but for the sake of the important matter, she had no choice but to suppress Yuan Yueze's strange hands, saying weakly, "No... we haven't finished talking about the important matter yet."
Yuan Yueze had no choice but to cover her breasts with his hands and stop moving. Even so, feeling the tingling sensation from the large hands on her chest and the hot, seemingly throbbing, huge 'weapon' beneath her buttocks, Zhu Yuyan's heart was still racing and her breathing was erratic . The only thing she could do was rely on a level of willpower that ordinary people couldn't achieve to struggle to maintain some semblance of clarity.
"Yuyan isn't only thinking of you! I have selfish thoughts too."
Zhu Yuyan forced herself to calm down for a moment and then spoke again.
As soon as her attention was diverted, Yuan Yueze's interest was immediately drawn: "What selfish thoughts could you have?"
"You bad guy, you bully Wan'er all day long, you're practically an obstacle to Wan'er's progress! Wan'er met me last night and insisted that I teach you a lesson to vent her anger."
Zhu Yuyan said coquettishly.
Yuan Yueze looked slightly embarrassed and scratched his head, saying, "I only knew how to tease that little girl every day, I didn't expect her to hold such a grudge."
"Now it's all good, the news that you were injured by her should have spread far and wide by now, Wan'er should have heard about it too."
Zhu Yuyan laughed again.
"Tell me, how have you been this past year?"
Yuan Yueze asked again.
"I haven't had as much free time as you. When I left last year, Yuyan took many of the books you left in the Song family. I've spent most of this year revising various rules and regulations within the sect. Although Master Song will gradually reform after he pacifies the Central Plains and give my Holy Sect an equal space to live, if the Holy Sect's rules aren't changed and it remains selfish and unscrupulous in achieving its goals, even if there is an equal space to live in the future, this power will be destroyed in its own hands."
Zhu Yuyan replied.
"Truly the demeanor of a sect leader, haha!"
Yuan Yueze nodded approvingly, his big mouth 'roughly' 'roughing' Zhu Yuyan's beautiful face like a pig rooting in the ground.
Lost again, Zhu Yuyan vaguely sensed Yuan Yueze's large mouth moving from her face to her neck, and then further down. She immediately panicked. She pleaded, "No...not here! It would be so embarrassing if Meixian and the others found out!"
"So you mean we can go somewhere else?"
Yuan Yueze stopped, looked up at her, and asked.
"Tomorrow I'll go back and arrange all the affairs of the sect, distributing power to the leaders, and then I'll come to be by your side. I'm afraid you'll find me unappealing!"
Zhu Yuyan said, her voice slightly desolate, as if recalling many events from the past years.
"The Demon...the Yin Empress of the Holy Gate has completely disappeared!"
Yuan Yueze laughed loudly.
"You rascal, you kept mentioning 'Demon Gate' when you spoke to me, why did you suddenly change your tune?"
Zhu Yuyan asked curiously.
"I remembered that Li Shimin was so shocked by your words today that he vomited blood. I was afraid you'd shock me again, especially since I'm injured right now! So I had to change my tune."
Yuan Yueze said exaggeratedly, his expression pained.
"You're spouting nonsense again!"
Zhu Yuyan glared at Yuan Yueze and scolded him.
"But that kid Li Shimin is indeed no ordinary person. I was used by him today."
Zhu Yuyan suddenly said.
"What do you mean?"
Yuan Yueze looked puzzled.
"I just wanted to intimidate him with my words, and at the same time, I was afraid he wouldn't be able to control himself when he saw you, so I focused my attention on him. I only mixed a little bit of internal energy into my shouts. Even someone who hasn't learned martial arts wouldn't be injured, at most their blood would churn. Li Shimin is no weakling, so it's impossible for him to be injured! Who knew that Li Shimin would force himself to vomit blood in that situation? Everyone saw his injury, and once the news spread, he could fake an injury like you and plot against Luoyang from behind the scenes."
Zhu Yuyan explained, her face turning cold. Clearly, after so many years in the martial world, being used by Li Shimin like that made her very uncomfortable.
“Hmm, but his biggest mistake was not knowing our true relationship. Speaking of which, quickly call me ‘husband’ or ‘my husband’ so I can hear it.”
Yuan Yueze nodded, then said with a mischievous grin.
“…”
Zhu Yuyan was too embarrassed to say it, her mouth agape in his arms.
“Will you call me or not?”
Yuan Yueze lowered his head and began to nibble on the cherry-like nipple of her breast through the thin veil.
“Ugh…”
A slight pain mixed with intense stimulation, a tingling and numb sensation spread throughout her body, and Zhu Yuyan couldn’t help but let out a long moan.
Seeing that Yuan Yueze was increasing the force, and that she was becoming increasingly unable to bear the stimulation, Zhu Yuyan blushed and softly called out, “Husband.”
Yuan Yueze was secretly delighted that his plan had succeeded. He held the shy Zhu Yuyan, who dared not look up again, in his arms, humming a little tune and swaying her body gently.
“You’ve been listening for so long, aren’t you coming out?”
Yuan Yueze shouted out of the blue.
Zhu Yuyan raised her head, looking around strangely.
"You finally found out, kid."
Zhu Yuyan looked around but couldn't find anyone or anything. Turning back, she saw Lu Miaozi, dressed in white, sitting opposite Yuan Yueze, letting out a long laugh.
Thinking of their intimate position, Zhu Yuyan became even more shy and tried to break free. But she was no match for Yuan Yueze's brute strength and could only bury her face in his chest like an ostrich. She cursed herself for being so infatuated with Yuan Yueze that she had lost all sense of caution.
"Why did you come here, Master Lu?"
Yuan Yueze asked, holding Zhu Yuyan tightly.
Seeing their intimate posture, Lu Miaozi chuckled, "I came to see Xun'er and also to ask you some questions, like about electricity. It's quite brain-draining to study. There are many things I don't understand that I need you to explain."
Yuan Yueze's head throbbed. He had no energy to explain those things; besides, he wasn't a professional, how could he possibly explain them? If Lu Miaozi were alive in later generations, he would definitely be a scientist-level figure. The future development of science and technology in the Central Plains would depend entirely on him.
"This… I don't really understand either. Giving you books to read on your own is fine. Master Lu could take on some trustworthy and talented students; the more students there are, the easier it will be to study,"
Yuan Yueze honestly replied.
“That makes sense. You’re such a slowpoke, I won’t get anything out of you,”
Lu Miaozi nodded.
“Yu Yan, this old geezer insulted your husband, aren’t you indignant?”
Yuan Yueze teased Zhu Yu Yan, who was too ashamed to show her face.
“Why is the Empress getting shy?” Lu
Miaozi also teased.
How could Zhu Yu Yan stand it? Suppressing her embarrassment, she retorted softly, “Lu Miaozi, how dare you be so disrespectful to your elders! Do you want me to ‘reward’ you with another slap?”
“‘I’m the Empress,’ you know. I wonder who was calling me ‘me, me’ just now!”
Lu Miaozi got up, waved his hand, and walked towards the door, mimicking Zhu Yu Yan’s tone in a strange voice.
“Lu Miaozi, I’m going to kill you!”
Zhu Yu Yan shouted at Lu Miaozi’s retreating back, both ashamed and angry.
"Husband!"
Lu Miaozi stepped out the door, glanced back at the two of them, and mimicked Zhu Yuyan's tone as she said this, then laughed and left.
Lu Miaozi was now incredibly carefree, coming and going as she pleased.
Zhu Yuyan was nearly driven mad with anger, and finding no one to vent her frustration on, she could only pound her fists on Yuan Yueze, grumbling incessantly.
Watching Lu Miaozi and Zhu Yuyan's recent verbal sparring, Yuan Yueze felt a surge of excitement. Lu Miaozi's inner turmoil had long since been resolved, and Zhu Yuyan's grudge against Lu Miaozi had also just been completely resolved. From now on, the two of them would only be old acquaintances.
"Over the years, Yu Yan has met several men, but the ones she truly wronged were Lu Miaozi and Yue Shan. The guilt towards Yue Shan is irreparable; he has no descendants or heirs left in the world. All Yu Yan can do from now on is offer incense for him and refrain from further evil deeds. The guilt towards Lu Miaozi has ended with your appearance. He and Shang Qingya are the true couple, and Yu Yan and you are the best match."
Zhu Yu Yan gazed at the departing figure of Lu Miaozi, speaking as if to Yuan Yueze, yet also as if to herself.
"Regarding Shi Zhixuan, Yu Yan's hatred for him in the past stemmed from being abandoned by him and the hatred for his killing of her master. But over the years, I've realized I have no right to hate him. Given our positions in the Holy Sect and the differences in our personalities, it was simply impossible for us to be together. Yu Yan threw herself into love like a moth to a flame, only to be hurt in the end; she also bears some responsibility for misjudging people. After you appeared, Yu Yan's heart wasn't entirely filled with hatred anymore. Your loving gaze has always been deeply etched in Yu Yan's mind. At that time, Yu Yan began to try to forget the past. Only after the demons in her heart were removed could she truly begin a new life; otherwise, she would not only be letting down her own heart but also betraying the love she had for you."
Zhu Yu Yan looked at Yuan Yueze with a smile.
This smile no longer held any trace of seductive allure; in Yuan Yueze's eyes, it appeared utterly holy. The story she had just told and this smile were enough to show that the Empress's heart had been reborn. A strange joy welled up in Yuan Yueze's heart.
As if she could sense Yuan Yueze's feelings, Zhu Yuyan's heart trembled with immense gratitude. An unprecedented sense of satisfaction welled up within her, making her feel that spending her future with this man would be the greatest happiness of her life.
"Thank you..."
Zhu Yuyan murmured softly, nestled against Yuan Yueze's chest.
Yuan Yueze remained silent, gazing into the distance, quietly savoring the warmth.
"Oh dear! The plan isn't finished yet, Mother, don't blame us for interrupting your good time!"
Shan Meixian, leading several other women carrying musical instruments, approached the two, her voice teasing.
Seeing Zhu Yuyan begin to struggle shyly again, Yuan Yueze had no choice but to release her: "Why are you all here? What other plan do you have?"
"Husband, don't worry about it now, I'll explain later,"
Shan Meixian said, sitting down with the other women and setting up her zither.
Yuan Yueze nodded, bewildered.
A moment later...
"This time, I've truly decided to leave, to escape the sorrow I've long forgotten. I want you to forget your worries, forget your concerns, and be free from all this turmoil. That time, your unintentional departure became my unchanging sorrow. So I've become indifferent to the bustling world, unable to rejoice, so I guard my loneliness, unable to return. Ah… the fading afterglow rises, for you to pluck. Ah… hold onto that fleeting moment, forever blooming for you."
A powerful and unparalleled melody, 'Return,' resonated throughout Luoyang, awakening many who were awake or already asleep, deeply immersed in its strange, slightly melancholic, and beautiful tune. Time seemed to stand still throughout Luoyang. When the song ended, people slowly recovered from their daze and began to discuss it.
"This melody is strange, yet beautiful. Could it be composed by Young Master Yuan?"
"Oh dear! It's Young Master Yuan's voice. It seems his injuries from this morning have healed!"
"Wow! Young Master Yuan is too arrogant! Doesn't he let people sleep?"
"Brother, why does your tone sound so sour?"
"Nonsense! If I had his abilities, I'd keep you all awake every night!"
"Didn't Master say he avenged me? Why is this nemesis still so energetic? Hmm? This male voice doesn't seem to be the nemesis's. Is he playing some kind of trick?"
"Big brother, have you forgotten Feng'er? She didn't even come to find me while singing with the sisters!"
"This person is truly terrifying. Luckily, I left the family one last way out, heh!"
"Young Master Yuan seems to have nowhere to vent! He will never forget today's humiliation. The Empress of Yin and the Demonic Sect are going to suffer in the future!"
"Yuan Yueze, Yuan Yueze, although Shimin is not convinced, I have to admit that you will be my biggest stumbling block!"
"He...is that Yuan Yueze?"
"This is Yuan Yueze's strength? Very good, I'm becoming increasingly interested in you!"
※※※※※ "Your Majesty is wise, truly able to guess Yuan Yueze's next move. In that case, he must be seriously injured, using this to conceal his condition?"
Wang Shichong asked.
"Don't you think this song was sung by two women?"
the Holy Venerable countered.
"This...please forgive my ignorance, but it sounds like a man and a woman. Please enlighten me, Your Majesty."
Wang Shichong bowed.
"This is merely a scheme to conceal his injuries. It must have been sung by two women just now. The one impersonating Yuan Yueze's voice must be his wife. She's just so convincing, and with her profound internal strength, I only noticed it from a hint of femininity in her voice."
the Holy Venerable explained.
"So his wife also possesses such strength. I've only seen two of them; I only felt their strength was comparable to good fighters in the martial world, not quite that of a master."
Wang Shichong asked curiously.
"That must be because they deliberately suppressed their true energy. But don't worry, no matter how powerful his wife is, she's no match for me!"
the Holy Venerable said casually, his tone brimming with confidence.
"Do you think I would be certain that Yuan Yueze is seriously injured based solely on this?"
the Holy Venerable asked again.
"I also have some questions... Please advise, Holy Venerable..."
Wang Shichong nodded.
"Do you also suspect that Yuan Yueze and Empress Yin are putting on an act for outsiders?"
the Holy Venerable smiled, a rare occurrence.
Wang Shichong nodded: "Regarding Yuan Yueze, I dare not overlook any possibility, for any oversight could ruin the grand plan of my Holy Sect."
"I don't blame you for your suspicion; on the contrary, I admire you. You probably think Yuan Yueze's strength is immeasurable, and that even though Empress Yin is a grandmaster, she might not be Yuan Yueze's match, right?"
"You don't know that Empress Yin mastered the highest level of the 'Heavenly Demonic Technique' over two years ago—a level no one in the Demonic Sect's history has reached in a thousand years. This highest level allows one to be resurrected and their strength to increase several times over! I'm not surprised that Yuan Yueze was defeated by her."
The Holy Venerable explained after Wang Shichong nodded.
"Wouldn't the Demonic Sect become a stumbling block to my Holy Sect's grand plan?"
Wang Shichong frowned and asked.
"No, although I don't know how she managed to cultivate it, since Empress Yin mastered the Heavenly Demon Art, she has spent most of the year in seclusion cultivating, leaving all sect affairs to her subordinates. She simply didn't have much time to revitalize the Demonic Sect. I suspect that her physical body couldn't withstand the erosion of the power, so she had to suppress and control it through seclusion. This kind of power is very difficult to control, especially demonic arts. Reaching the highest level brings immense strength, but it also brings great disaster. Everything in this world has its gains and losses!"
The Holy Venerable seemed to have experienced such a thing, a trace of pain flashing in his eyes as he spoke.
This Holy Venerable not only knew everything about Cihang Jingzhai, but it seemed that nothing in the Demonic Sect could escape his discerning eyes.
"Time flies! When I saw Empress Yin sixty years ago, she was just a little child who couldn't even walk steadily..."
The Holy Venerable then sighed.
"You needn't worry. Even if it's all Yuan Yueze's scheme, I'm confident I can obtain the He Shi Bi jade, because I still have a trump card!"
The Holy Venerable comforted Wang Shichong, seeing his continued unease.
"Then I'll take my leave. Holy Venerable, please rest in the inner room of the study today. I'll prepare wine and food for you tomorrow."
Wang Shichong bowed and withdrew.
The Holy Venerable, with an air of absolute authority, slowly closed his eyes to regulate his breathing.
The next day, the sun was high in the sky.
Opening her eyes, Zhu Yuyan looked at Yuan Yueze, who slept peacefully beside her like an infant, still holding her. Her thoughts were filled with complex emotions.
The appearance of this man had changed the course of the world. It had also changed the life of the Empress Yin. Last night, amidst the teasing looks of her daughter and the other women, Yuan Yueze had slept peacefully in her arms, the most restful sleep she had had since becoming the leader of the Yin Gui Sect. She felt guilty for not being able to be intimate with him due to her menstrual period, but he
didn't seem to mind at all. He stripped naked, embraced her, caressed her haphazardly, and then fell fast asleep. Zhu Yuyan looked at this incomparably handsome man. For four years, she had met him every night, but never had a moment felt so real. His affection for her made her slowly let go of the constraints of age, seniority, and etiquette. After settling all the affairs within the sect, she would stay by his side forever.
As she thought about it, the once high and mighty Yin Empress slowly became as infatuated as a little woman.
Yuan Yueze suddenly moved slightly, disrupting Zhu Yuyan's thoughts. Her gaze shifted, and the man's morning symbol, 'a pillar reaching to the sky,' pitched a small tent under the thin blanket. Knowing what it meant, Zhu Yuyan still inexplicably lifted a corner of the blanket. At first glance, that magnificent and terrifying 'weapon' glared at her like a vicious dragon.
A shiver ran through her, and Zhu Yuyan blushed crimson, her breathing quickening. She wondered if this thing was so terrifying, would she be tortured to death? She cursed under her breath, dropped the blanket, and shuffled away, dressed weakly, and slipped away.
This was her usual style.
Yuan Yueze slept soundly. When he groggily awoke, he found the beauty beside him already gone. Yuan Yueze thought to himself, "You always sneak away! Next time I'll definitely give you a good thrashing!"
After the resounding performance in Luoyang last night, people from all sides were discussing what kind of drama Yuan Yueze was putting on. Judging from the fact that many forces had sent people to visit Yuan Yueze today, those with ulterior motives were unsure whether his injuries were real or not.
Under Shan Meixian's skillful makeup, Yuan Yueze forcibly suppressed his blood and qi, making himself appear half-dead and greatly weakened. Then, Yuan Yueze began to receive the visitors one by one. In the afternoon, the gates were simply closed, euphemistically called "quiet recuperation."
※※※※※ Northeast of Jinqiao, west of Douting Pavilion, this place inspires poetic thoughts.
The scenery of Longmen Mountain, the bell tolling at Ma Temple, the spring sunshine of Jin Valley, the autumn wind of Luopu, the dawn moon over Tianjin, the evening rain at Tongtuo, the morning stroll at Pingquan, and the evening view of Mangshan—collectively known as the "Eight Scenic Spots of Luoyang"—are all famous, with "Dawn Moon over Tianjin" being the most renowned.
In the first year of the Daye era, Emperor Yang Guang built a bridge over the Luoshui ferry crossing south of the old city of Luoyang, connecting the north and south banks of the Luoshui River with iron chains, and constructed four towers on opposite sides of the river. In ancient times, the emperor was revered as the "Son of Heaven," and the ferry crossing was called "Jin," hence the name "Tianjin Bridge," a scenic spot of the capital. A pavilion was built on the bridge; whenever the moon was high in the sky, one could climb the bridge before dawn and look down from the pavilion, where the moon could be seen on the surrounding blue waters. The name "Dawn Moon over Tianjin" originated from this.
Night has fallen.
Unsteady on his feet, Yuan Yueze strolled alone on the bridge. A crescent moon hung in the sky above, while the river shimmered beneath his feet, occasionally punctuated by the clear, melodious sound of bells. Standing in the center of the bridge, bathed in the soft moonlight, he gazed at the sails gently swaying in the breeze on the Luo River. Yuan Yueze sighed inwardly: only such tranquility could add a touch of color to this chaotic world!
"Brother Yuan, it's so late, are you still out for a walk? How are your injuries?"
Li Shimin's voice sounded behind him.
Yuan Yueze turned and nodded. "Thank you for your concern, Brother Shimin. I'm fine, and it seems your injuries aren't serious either."
Li Shimin had just visited Yuan Yueze that morning; the two had spent the morning scheming and plotting, leaving Yuan Yueze exhausted.
"Alas! Looking at this tranquil scene under the starry sky, who could imagine that this is a chaotic world where everyone is in danger? Everyone is fighting and vying for power, and it's the common people who suffer the most?"
Li Shimin stood beside Yuan Yueze, gazing at the river, and sighed as if moved by a profound sentiment.
"The Prince of Qin speaks well,"
Yuan Yueze said, silently warning himself not to be swayed by Li Shimin's words. Just then, a voice as beautiful as celestial music rang in their ears, even possessing a captivating magic.
The two turned to look and saw a tall, graceful woman dressed as a scholar, standing with her hands behind her back atop the bridge, gazing down at the flowing Luo River below.
A small boat passed by.
From their perspective, at the highest point of the Tianjin Arch Bridge, a half-moon was perfectly framed in the night sky where her face faced, bathing her in its gentle light. This accentuated her beautiful, undulating features, as if born from the essence of heaven and earth.
Even the two men, accustomed to seeing beautiful women, were overwhelmed with a sense of awe. But her beauty was entirely different from Wanwan's; it was a natural, unparalleled, pure, and innate beauty, like a lotus emerging from clear water, unadorned and untouched by artifice. Like a beautiful goddess dwelling by the Luo River, suddenly appearing on its banks. Even in the heart of this bustling metropolis, her arrival transformed everything into a serene and enchanting scene, both real and dreamlike, breathtakingly beautiful.
Though she appeared in the mortal realm, she seemed utterly unfit for this mundane place. Her beautiful eyes were as clear as the sun rising in the morning glow, yet forever maintaining a mysterious and unfathomable tranquility.
Her extraordinary, breathtaking beauty was beyond the reach of any mortal's eye. The entire world seemed enveloped in a rich, fragrant aura of ethereal beauty, making it impossible to escape, much less leave. Beneath her calm and aloof exterior, her eyes revealed an emotion like a flower blooming in the shadows, expressing a passionate love for life and a pursuit beyond the mundane. Compared
to Wanwan, with her strangely alluring, seductively beautiful, and alluringly seductive demeanor, like the moon veiled behind light clouds, she was like a ray of sunlight breaking through a secluded valley, radiant and ethereal. The celestial street was as silent as a ghost town, save for the gentle murmur of the river lapping against the bridge embankment. Under
the slanting moonlight, the four tall buildings arranged in a square formation at the bridgeheads cast majestic shadows on the water, adding to the indescribable, awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Focusing his gaze, her appearance became even more astonishing: beneath long, naturally curved eyebrows, bright, deep eyes sparkled with captivating beauty, complemented by two dimples on her jade-like cheeks that seemed to smile gently. Her shoulders were sharply defined, her waist slender and graceful, a perfect balance of slenderness and fullness, making her utterly mesmerizing. Under the moonlight, her skin was as translucent as jade, further emphasizing her lithe figure, exquisite beauty, and ethereal grace.
The moment Yuan Yueze saw her, the image of Wanwan's adorable face flashed through his mind.
While Yuan Yueze could boast of over a dozen true immortals, he couldn't help but nod in admiration for this woman, for her so-called 'celestial aura' was the result of arduous cultivation of some technique. And the fact that she could approach them so silently suggested that her cultivation was not to be underestimated.
Li Shimin, standing to the side, was utterly dumbfounded, still reeling from the shock.
"Consort Xuan, having been inexperienced in the mortal world, has neglected etiquette; please forgive my disrespect,"
the woman on the bridge said, clasping her hands in a fist salute.
This woman was Shi Feixuan, the worldly successor of Cihang Jingzhai.
"Greetings, Miss Shi. What brings you here?"
Li Shimin quickly regained his composure, a fleeting look of surprise in his eyes. He smiled and cupped his hands in greeting.
"Feixuan is being presumptuous, but I was just about to ask for your guidance!"
As her delicate voice rang out, Shi Feixuan's ancient longsword flashed from its sheath like lightning. Her body slid down from the bridge like a wisp of smoke or a drifting cloud, her movements graceful and unpredictable, like a celestial being dancing, seemingly slow yet incredibly fast. Her swordplay spread out, appearing neither fierce nor murderous, yet utterly omnipresent.
The world seemed to be enveloped and contained by her thousands of sword strikes, yet it also seemed as if only one sword existed in the universe.
The sword attack came suddenly, but Yuan Yueze's faint smile remained unchanged. His gaze shifted to the river, ignoring the attack.
A clang of metal clashing rang out, like the tolling of a temple bell, its echo lingering and reverberating. Li Shimin raised his sword to parry. Yuan Yueze's clothes were torn at the shoulder by the sword energy, yet his expression remained unchanged.
Shi Feixuan, having finished her attack, observed the two, noticing Yuan Yueze still gazing into the distance, a flicker of surprise crossing her eyes.
"Why did it seem as if Shimin had walked through hell the instant the weapons clashed?"
Li Shimin, his face still showing shock, asked curiously.
Shi Feixuan looked at Li Shimin with delight and appreciation, a satisfied smile radiating from her stunningly beautiful face.
Li Shimin's expression also calmed, a relieved smile of understanding appearing on his lips.
To have tested Li Shimin in a single move was indeed quite mysterious.
The ragged Yuan Yueze standing to the side became a blemish on this beautiful scene.
The question and answer between Shi Feixuan and Li Shimin revolved around the principles of governance. As Yuan Yueze listened, he couldn't help but recall his conversation with the bearded man outside Yangzhou a year ago. But the framework of the era was the heaviest shackle, from which neither Li Shimin nor Qiu Ran Ke could escape.
Shi Feixuan spoke with Li Shimin, nodding approvingly, her gaze frequently glancing at Yuan Yueze's retreating figure, a complex expression flashing in her eyes.
After a while, Shi Feixuan seemed to have finished her 'interview' with Li Shimin, turning to Yuan Yueze and asking, "Young Master Yuan, what are your views on the 'way of governing a country'?"
"Hehe!"
A slight, contemptuous smile flickered across Yuan Yueze's lips. Just as he was about to speak, a faint, elusive laugh rang out.
A white shadow, almost imperceptible to the naked eye, emerged from under the bridge, shooting straight at Yuan Yueze.
Wanwan.
The little witch landed right beside Yuan Yueze, ignoring Li Shimin and Shi Feixuan. She stepped forward, took Yuan Yueze's arm, and stared intently at him with her beautiful eyes, as if they were filled with the finest wine. She smiled sweetly and said, "My dear, why are your clothes all torn? You're still injured! Who could bear to hurt you?"
Yuan Yueze had already noticed Wanwan hiding nearby, but he didn't know that this little witch's appearance would disrupt the balance and start her 'performance' again.
Feeling her ample breasts rubbing against his arm, Yuan Yueze felt incredibly comfortable and put his arm around Wanwan's slender waist, laughing, "Don't interrupt, someone is asking me about 'the way to govern a country'."
Seeing Wanwan's arrival, Shi Feixuan's expression remained unchanged, clearly knowing that Wanwan was hiding in the shadows. However, the intimacy between Wanwan and Yuan Yueze still made a hint of unease flash in Shi Feixuan's eyes.
"First, I'd like to ask this young lady, you have no reason to have ruined my clothes like this. You don't even apologize, and then you come to ask me some nonsense about 'the way of governing a country.' Have you forgotten even the most basic human etiquette?"
Yuan Yueze looked at Shi Feixuan, his tone accusatory.
Shi Feixuan's calm face showed embarrassment, and she was momentarily at a loss for words.
"It seems Miss Shi is testing us both; Brother Yuan, there's no need to take it so seriously,"
Li Shimin quickly intervened to smooth things over.
Yuan Yueze only wanted to embarrass Shi Feixuan, so he continued, "The principles of governing a country are numerous, and I have no interest in such things."
"Then what does Young Master Yuan think of the Prince of Qin's remarks?"
Shi Feixuan asked again.
Yuan Yueze remained silent, but secretly gave Wanwan a wink.
"Smack!"
Wanwan didn't even have time to react before kissing Yuan Yueze's handsome face, saying sweetly, "Tell me, my darling, I really want to hear it!"
Yuan Yueze was greatly impressed by Wanwan's quick wit, as if they were telepathically connected.
Although Li Shimin knew that the Demonic Sect and Yuan Yueze always disregarded etiquette, he was still somewhat embarrassed. Shi Feixuan's expression also turned somewhat unpleasant.
Li Shimin was wondering why Yuan Yueze, who had a great feud with the Yin Gui Sect, was embracing and kissing their current successor in the street like this? Was the Yin Empress and he putting on an act?
Shi Feixuan's eyebrows furrowed slightly, then a smile flashed in her eyes. As Jingzhai's old rivals, the Demonic Sect knew each other very well. Wanwan had fought with Shi Feixuan once before, and Shi Feixuan had the upper hand at that time. But today, he felt that Wanwan's strength was vaguely above his own, which must be the result of a great improvement in her cultivation.
The final levels of the Heavenly Demon Great Art are said to have many strange aspects. If Wanwan has fallen in love with Yuan Yueze, she will surely kill him in the future, otherwise she will never be able to advance to the Great Perfection realm.
Having witnessed Yuan Yueze's prowess firsthand, Shi Feixuan couldn't help but admire him. Such a man is truly rare in this world. It's normal for Wanwan to fall in love with him, and Wanwan's progress in cultivation might also be due to Yuan Yueze. Therefore, Wanwan must kill Yuan Yueze in the future. Recalling the incident yesterday where Empress Yin severely injured Yuan Yueze, Shi Feixuan roughly guessed that Empress Yin was standing up for her disciple. Wouldn't Yuan Yueze be pitiful then?
No! Yuan Yueze shouldn't be so weak. So which assumption is correct?
Her mind raced, unaware that she had already become curious. Her Dao heart wavered for a moment, her mind collapsing.
Fortunately, her willpower was strong enough that she recovered in an instant.
"Why would I talk about those things? I'm not going to be emperor,"
Yuan Yueze said, playfully flicking Wanwan's delicate nose.
Wanwan blushed slightly.
"The world is in chaos now, and you, sir, are so capable. Why not do something for the people?"
Shi Feixuan urged.
She had considered all the rumors about Yuan Yueze; even the 'Heavenly Blade' couldn't sway his will. Shi Feixuan wasn't entirely confident she could persuade him.
"Further words are useless. My ambitions lie elsewhere,"
Yuan Yueze said, somewhat displeased by Shi Feixuan's repeated mentions of the 'people.'
Shi Feixuan knew the rumored Yuan Yueze was capricious and unpredictable. Unperturbed, she continued to persuade, "Then why doesn't the young master choose a virtuous ruler to assist? After achieving success and bringing peace to the world, he can withdraw and retire, wouldn't that be the best of both worlds?"
This was precisely the thought in Yuan Yueze's mind. However, Yuan Yueze supported Song Shidao. Shi Feixuan, on the other hand, was clearly trying to persuade Yuan Yueze to assist Li Shimin.
"Then please answer a few questions for me, young lady and brother Shimin. If the answers satisfy me, I will agree to assist a wise ruler, how about that?"
Yuan Yueze said with a hearty laugh.
Shi Feixuan and Li Shimin were both puzzled by Yuan Yueze's intentions and nodded in bewilderment.
Wanwan also looked confused, her big eyes fixed on Yuan Yueze.
"First, two questions: What is the beginning of chaos in the world? And what is the beginning of order?"
Li Shimin and Shi Feixuan both pondered.
"Tyranny, losing the hearts of the people, is the beginning of chaos. A wise ruler, following the way of Heaven, is the beginning of order,"
Li Shimin answered after only a few breaths.
Shi Feixuan and Wanwan nodded in agreement.
Yuan Yueze gazed at the bright moon in the sky, sighed deeply, and said with undisguised disappointment.
"Young Master, how do you think we should answer these two questions?"
Shi Feixuan asked curiously.
"A monarch who wields absolute power."
Yuan Yueze's words were firm and resolute, causing Li Shimin and the two women to stand there stunned.
Upon closer examination, it was just as Yuan Yueze had said. When Li Shimin spoke of a well-governed era, he thought of enlightened emperors. But in times of chaos, he only thought of tyranny and the loss of popular support. This was not because he was superficial, but because his deeply ingrained thinking was limited by the times and his education. The two women felt the same way. Shi Feixuan lowered her head and frowned in deep thought. Wanwan, however, had a gleam in her eyes, her small face showing surprise and admiration.
"Then please continue with your questions, Young Master."
Shi Feixuan seemed unconcerned about Yuan Yueze's first two questions and continued to ask.
"The third question, if Brother Shimin were emperor, how would you treat your own people and those of other tribes?"
Of the four present, Yuan Yueze, Li Shimin, and Shi Feixuan all knew the implication in this question, for they all knew that Li Shimin was the wise ruler chosen by Shi Feixuan. Wanwan's expression began to turn strange, but then her mind raced, and she immediately understood. Her beautiful eyes scrutinized Li Shimin carefully.
Li Shimin gave a wry smile: "Brother Yuan flatters me. If outsiders heard this, you would truly be in trouble."
This was merely a polite gesture, and Yuan Yueze didn't care much, only staring at Li Shimin.
Clearing his throat, Li Shimin slowly replied, "If I were the ruler, all the people of different ethnicities under my rule would be treated equally. However, sectarianism is deeply ingrained, and disputes are inevitable. Therefore, I believe we should implement a system of multi-ethnic coexistence, with each ethnic group governing according to its own system. Gradually, we can eliminate the dross from each system and integrate the advanced ones. Under the supervision of the monarch and officials, we can both reassure the people and ensure fairness."
"So, Brother Shimin, you're advocating the Buddhist concept of 'equality of all beings'?"
Yuan Yueze pressed.
Li Shimin nodded affirmatively.
Shi Feixuan's eyes showed admiration; Li Shimin's theory truly deserved the title of a wise ruler. It was rare to find someone in this era who could articulate such a theory.
Yuan Yueze, however, revealed a smile that was unfathomable and inscrutable.
Li Shimin had never dared to underestimate Yuan Yueze, precisely because this man was unfathomable, always seeming like a completely different person each time they met. Seeing that slight smile on his face, Li Shimin subconsciously wondered if his answer had been good enough.
After pondering for a long time, Li Shimin was certain that even if Yuan Yueze could offer a more profound reasoning, it wouldn't be much better than his own.
"The fourth question,"
Yuan Yueze asked, "since all beings are equal, why must there be a supreme emperor who holds the fate of all people and whose majesty cannot be violated?"
Li Shimin was immediately speechless.
Shi Feixuan was also taken aback. This era was approaching the peak of feudal autocracy, and Li Shimin and the two women could vaguely sense that Yuan Yueze was targeting the 'emperor,' and thinking deeper, he was even negating the system of this era! He could have stated his point of view in a single sentence, but Yuan Yueze had gone around in circles, negating their inner thoughts, negating the ideals they had held for many years, and thus erasing their beliefs.
The complete collapse of beliefs represents the death of a person's soul.
"Smack!"
The little witch, captivated by these brilliant words, gave Yuan Yueze another kiss. Yuan Yueze readily accepted it, his large hand pressing against Wanwan's round, firm buttocks, giving them a gentle squeeze.
A hint of allure flashed in Wanwan's beautiful eyes. She grabbed Yuan Yueze with her jade-like hand, preventing him from continuing his presumptuous behavior.
Fortunately, Shi Feixuan and Li Shimin were both trying to answer Yuan Yueze's question, but they couldn't come up with an answer no matter how hard they tried.
The equality of all beings is, of course, impossible to achieve absolutely, but it can be perfected through systems.
"One last question," Yuan Yueze continued, seeing that Li Shimin and Shi Feixuan remained silent, his
large hand returning to Wanwan's waist. "There have been many outstanding emperors throughout history, but why have dynasties changed so frequently? Why is it that 'what is divided for a long time must unite, and what is united for a long time must divide '? What do you two think is the root of this?"
"Please forgive my dullness, young master, could you please teach me the answer to this question?"
Li Shimin seemed to have thought of the answer, but was not quite sure, hence his hesitation. Shi Feixuan spoke first.
"Is the phrase 'one family ruling the world' enough?"
Yuan Yueze said calmly.
Li Shimin trembled violently, clearly he had just thought of the answer, but couldn't say it, because saying it would symbolize the collapse of his beliefs over the years. If he were emperor, then the sons and grandsons of the dragon would surely inherit the throne. And what Yuan Yueze said was also reasonable. The conflict between truth and belief caused confusion in one's mind, as if falling into a void!
Although Shi Feixuan couldn't offer any theoretical rebuttal to Yuan Yueze, she still insisted on her own beliefs: "Brother Yuan is quite right, but since ancient times, which wise man or sage, which emperor, would transfer his foundation to another?"
What she was talking about was from this era or even earlier, so it naturally made sense. However, her willpower was indeed strong, and Yuan Yueze secretly praised her.
"I have finished asking the five questions. I must leave now."
Yuan Yueze said without replying, and then took his leave.
"Your reasoning is indeed flawless, but I believe that dismantling the 'one family ruling the world' system is not something that can be done overnight. Do you agree, sir?"
Shi Feixuan asked again.
Yuan Yueze smiled faintly, not answering her, but simply bowing to Li Shimin before turning and leaving with Wanwan.

Chapter 38 The Beauty's Bet
Watching the departing couple, Shi Feixuan's jade-like face remained calm, but her thoughts were racing.
"Alas!"
After a long while, Li Shimin sighed dejectedly.
"Does Your Highness have any doubts?"
Shi Feixuan frowned slightly and asked.
"I'm not afraid of being laughed at by Miss Shi, but whenever I meet this person, I feel a sense of powerlessness."
Perhaps Li Shimin was letting his true nature show, or perhaps he was truly affected by Yuan Yueze's tricky questions, losing his former composure, and let out a long sigh.
"If you use things to define things, then things can be defined. If you use things to define non-things, then things are not things. Things cannot attain the function of names, and names cannot attain the reality of things. Names and things are not the same, therefore things are nothing."
Shi Feixuan recited a few lines of Buddhist scripture in a calm tone.
For ordinary people, releasing suppressed emotions might be perfectly normal. But Li Shimin was the wise ruler chosen by Jingzhai, a person beyond ordinary people. Shi Feixuan couldn't bear to see his dejected appearance, and the verse suddenly came to her ears like a cleansing of the soul. Li Shimin was naturally intelligent, and in this era, all the royal nobles studied Buddhism, so he understood after only a moment.
"Thank you for your guidance, Miss. I have learned a lot."
Li Shimin's dejected look vanished, and he bowed.
"All things in the world have form, and attachment to form is not a fault, but one should not be attached to form all the time. Feixuan's words were disrespectful, please forgive me, Your Highness."
Shi Feixuan returned the bow.
"Every word Miss speaks has profound meaning, what fault is there?"
Li Shimin laughed heartily.
“But…”
Li Shimin frowned slightly as he looked in the direction Yuan Yueze had disappeared.
Having heard Yuan Yueze's ideas, Li Shimin no longer cared whether the other party would support him. What he cared more about was whether the other party would obstruct his cause. He couldn't see through him, couldn't understand him. Like a hedgehog, Yuan Yueze was a ticking time bomb for anyone with ambitions for the world, making it impossible to remain focused.
"The world's affairs, after a long period of unity, tend to divide; after a long period of division, tend to unite. At the end of the Zhou Dynasty, the seven kingdoms fought for supremacy, eventually being unified by Qin. After the fall of Qin, the Chu and Han kingdoms fought for supremacy, and were then unified by Han. The Han Dynasty began with Emperor Gaozu's uprising after slaying the white snake, unifying the world. Later, Emperor Guangwu revived the dynasty, and it continued until Emperor Xian, after which it split into the Three Kingdoms. After the Three Kingdoms came the Western Jin Dynasty, which ended in Luoyang, followed by the Eastern Jin Dynasty, then the Northern and Southern Dynasties, and finally the Sui Dynasty unified the world. This cycle of division and unity—from the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors to the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties, from the Spring and Autumn Period to the Qin, Han, and Three Kingdoms, and then the Jin, Southern and Northern Dynasties to the Sui Dynasty—is not something that any insignificant being can control or comment on."
Shi Feixuan spoke slowly.
She could see the immense pressure Yuan Yueze was putting on Li Shimin, and all she could do now was try to calm him down. The meaning behind her words was clear: Yuan Yueze was just a flesh-and-blood human being, and the course of events was not something any one person could change.
"Please forgive my rudeness, Miss. I have benefited greatly today. I will take my leave now to return and reflect upon my plans further."
Li Shimin quickly regained his spirited demeanor and bowed.
Watching Li Shimin's departing figure, Shi Feixuan fell into deep thought: Having only met him once today, she could already sense Yuan Yueze's extraordinary nature. From his actions and expressions alone, Shi Feixuan could deduce his character and understand why the powerful and martial arts master Song Que would entrust his most beloved daughter to him. What puzzled Shi Feixuan was that Song Que, who always considered the restoration of the Han Dynasty his highest ideal, had overlooked such a talented individual as Yuan Yueze. What complex reasons lay behind this?
Suddenly, Shi Feixuan recalled Yuan Yueze's eyes, filled with a contempt that anyone could see. However, at that time, everyone's attention was focused on the seemingly simple but actually difficult question. Shi Feixuan's eyes had only occasionally glanced at Yuan Yueze's face.
"Could he really be a member of the Demonic Sect?"
This thought suddenly popped into Shi Feixuan's mind. With a complicated expression, she
glanced again in the direction Yuan Yueze had disappeared, then transformed into a flying fairy, vanishing without a trace in the blink of an eye.
※※※※※ "My darling, you did a really good job today! I'm so happy!"
Wanwan didn't mind Yuan Yueze's arm around her slender waist at all, praising him with a charming laugh.
Wanwan had no interest in governing the country; she could sense that Yuan Yueze's biggest purpose today was to embarrass Shi Feixuan, but it was different from how he usually embarrassed Wanwan. His interactions with Wanwan were more like those of a pair of bickering lovers. But just from the contemptuous look Yuan Yueze gave Shi Feixuan, Wanwan knew his thoughts. This was definitely something to be pleased about for Wanwan, Shi Feixuan's mortal enemy.
"Hey, I can't stand their hypocrisy, I'm going to have to deal with them properly!"
Yuan Yueze said smugly.
Was Yuan Yueze not hypocritical? Not at all!
He kept saying that he should consider things from an objective perspective, but in reality, he himself had his own inner demons. What wrong had Shi Feixuan done? To some extent, she, like Wanwan, was a pawn, a puppet, used by their sect to fight for its status and personal desires. What autonomy did they have in their values? They had long been completely brainwashed by the sect's ideology!
Why did Yuan Yueze dote on Wanwan so much, while showing contempt and disdain for Shi Feixuan?
If radicals on national and ethnic issues are called 'angry youths,' then Yuan Yueze was, in a sense, also an 'angry youth.'
How many people can truly be objective?
With the same mentality, Yuan Yueze and the clever and mischievous Wanwan began to plan how to further torment Shi Feixuan.
"My darling, did Master hurt you badly?"
After a while of joking, Wanwan suddenly asked, the worry on her face genuine.
"The Queen of Yin said I offended you, and she wants revenge for me. Look at me now, how badly injured am I?"
Yuan Yueze said with a pained expression.
His body, suppressed with his qi and blood, looked as if he were truly seriously injured, which Wanwan naturally detected when she released her qi.
"I had no choice! I couldn't beat you, so I could only beg Master to help!"
Wanwan pouted aggrievedly.
"I know, it must be that you've fallen in love with me, and to advance your career, you have to kill me to sever your emotional ties, right?"
Yuan Yueze sighed.
"Who would fall in love with you? How arrogant! I'm just always being bullied by you, and I feel a little wronged!"
Wanwan said, her voice slightly lacking in confidence. After speaking, she immediately glanced at Yuan Yueze out of the corner of her eye. Seeing that Yuan Yueze seemed to be pondering something, Wanwan breathed a sigh of relief.
Seeing Yuan Yueze's increasingly strange expression, Wanwan remembered that he had just been struck by Shi Feixuan's sword and immediately exclaimed, "My darling, were you injured by that sword?"
Yuan Yueze gave a bitter smile, his face already pale, and nodded to Wanwan.
"Why didn't you back down then? It must have been your stubbornness that angered Master, causing her to strike so hard! Master's cultivation is almost comparable to Song Que and Fu Cailin,"
Wanwan said somewhat incoherently. She blamed Yuan Yueze for not backing down when faced with a difficult situation; otherwise, he wouldn't have been injured so badly.
Most martial artists in the world idolize Song Que and Fu Cailin, who have already broken through the void and departed. This is because the two of them shattered the void before thousands of people! In most people's eyes, Yuan Yueze's strength is superb, but he still cannot compare to Song Que and Fu Cailin. Otherwise, why wouldn't he have broken through the void himself?
Wanwan had the same thought in her mind.
"I...I think I'm done for...I wanted to block that sword, but I had no strength. The nuns of Cihang Jingzhai are so ruthless! To support Li Shimin, they mercilessly killed me, this stumbling block!"
Yuan Yueze's voice was urgent, blood seeping from the corner of his mouth, and he collapsed weakly onto Wanwan.
"My darling, you...you don't scare Wanwan!"
Wanwan held the dejected Yuan Yueze, crying out helplessly.
"I...before I die, I have one unfulfilled wish,"
Yuan Yueze said weakly to Wanwan, feigning nonchalance.
"What is it? I'll make it for you."
Seeing that he seemed about to die, Wanwan's heart was in turmoil, and her beautiful eyes filled with tears.
"Give me a sweet kiss, to say goodbye to this world..."
Yuan Yueze's eyes were tightly closed, like someone about to die.
"Ah!"
Wanwan was stunned. This man was about to die, and his last wish was this?
Without time to think further, Wanwan's face flushed red with embarrassment. She hugged Yuan Yueze tightly, closed her eyes, and slowly pressed her soft, fragrant cherry lips to his large mouth. Her moist, soft lips clumsily explored Yuan Yueze's mouth, entwining with his. Yuan Yueze's mischievous hands began to boldly invade her two 'high grounds'. Wanwan silently approved of his actions, immersing herself in the passionate kiss.
A witch's first kiss should have been warm, tender, and sweet. At this moment, only heartbreak and endless sorrow remained.
Once her virginity was stirred, Wanwan's breathing grew heavy, her fragrant, moist breath landing on Yuan Yueze's face.
"I should be happy he's dead. Severing our ties of love allows me to cultivate even greater martial arts and achieve the Holy Sect's grand plan. But why is the pain in my heart so intense?"
Wanwan thought bitterly to herself.
Having successfully tricked Wanwan again, and now able to kiss her again, Yuan Yueze was ecstatic, oblivious to the world around him. He immersed himself in her soft, cherry-like lips, her unripe, sweet scent.
The moist, salty liquid slid into his mouth, and Yuan Yueze opened his eyes. The woman before him was no longer the clever, mischievous, and fiery little devil; instead, she wore a sorrowful expression, tears streaming down her face, her beautiful eyes tightly closed, trembling.
A sense of guilt welled up in Yuan Yueze's heart.
He then pressed his large lips against her delicate, flawless face, tenderly kissing away each of her tears.
"My darling, I'm so reluctant to part with you..."
Wanwan murmured softly, as if talking to herself.
"No need to be reluctant. After this kiss, I don't want to die anymore!"
Yuan Yueze suddenly laughed.
"Ah?"
Wanwan opened her eyes and saw Yuan Yueze's radiant face and spirited expression. Overjoyed, she trembled and pressed her delicate body tightly against Yuan Yueze. In
this intimate moment, Yuan Yueze was completely absorbed in the sensation.
Suddenly, as if realizing something, Wanwan forcefully pushed Yuan Yueze away, her expression a mix of joy and anger, and cried out, "You...you dare to deceive me!"
"Heh..."
Yuan Yueze chuckled dryly.
"Bang!"
Wanwan used her jade-like foot to kick Yuan Yueze, sending him flying several feet away. She angrily cried out, "You bastard, I hate you to death!"
With that, she ignored Yuan Yueze, who was still sitting to the side, covering his mouth and chuckling foolishly, and turned to fly away.
As she ran, Wanwan's mind raced, both happy and helpless. Happy that Yuan Yueze wasn't dead, but helpless that she'd been tricked by him again. She then inwardly cursed herself for losing her usual composure, letting Yuan Yueze's low-level tricks sway her heart so easily, almost blurting out her innermost thoughts. But kissing that guy was really quite comfortable!
Thinking about it, Wanwan's pretty face flushed again, and she silently snorted, "You little devil, I'll definitely punish you properly next time!"
But if he didn't die, she couldn't sever their ties, couldn't complete the sect's grand plan, wouldn't that be letting down her master? Wait! Master had long since lost her virginity, yet she still cultivated the Heavenly Demon Great Art to its peak. Perhaps she had found a different path? She should go back and ask Master for guidance!
Wanwan made up her mind, quickening her pace, leaving a long white shadow in the night as she shot away like lightning.
※※※※※ The next day, at the beginning of Chen Shi (7-9 AM).
Yuan Yueze stood by the window.
“What are you thinking about, husband?”
Shan Meixian’s gentle voice sounded behind him.
“Won’t you rest a little longer?”
Yuan Yueze turned around, sat down at the small table, and smiled.
Thinking of last night’s romantic encounter, Shan Meixian’s face flushed slightly: “You’re teasing me again. There might be more visitors today; the battle for the He Shi Bi jade will begin in the next couple of days.”
Yuan Yueze nodded.
“Husband and sister are up? Two guests have arrived outside and want to see you.”
Shang Xiuxun rushed in without knocking.
“Who are they?”
Shan Meixian asked.
“Shen Luoyan and Xiuning.”
“How can I see both of them alone? Besides, they don’t belong to the same faction at all, and they wouldn’t agree to see me together!”
Yuan Yueze frowned.
“Xiuning is here to see someone else! Shen Luoyan is here to see you.”
Shang Xiuxun smiled.
Yuan Yueze nodded silently, gave Shan Meixian a few instructions, and walked out of the room with Shang Xiuxun.
※※※※※ Entering the living room where Shen Luoyan was waiting, Yuan Yueze saw the slender figure that was neither familiar nor unfamiliar.
“Young Master Yuan, how have you been?”
Shen Luoyan turned around and smiled when she heard the noise.
“Military General Shen, what brings you here?”
Yuan Yueze asked with a smile after sitting down.
“Luoyan heard that Empress Yin seriously injured you in the street the other day, so I came to visit you.”
Shen Luoyan replied.
Yuan Yueze thanked her, a strange smile appearing on his lips.
It would be strange if Shen Luoyan came just to visit him.
"The Empress's cultivation has indeed reached a state of perfection. The eighteenth level of the Heavenly Demon Great Art is indescribably powerful. Although I am unwilling, I have to admit its strength,"
Yuan Yueze sighed.
"Is Young Master's injury serious?"
Shen Luoyan was taken aback upon hearing this, then asked with a complicated expression.
"Is Military Advisor Shen truly worried about me, or do you have other plans?"
Yuan Yueze did not answer her, asking abruptly.
"I..."
Shen Luoyan was caught off guard by Yuan Yueze's blunt question and immediately did not know how to answer.
"I was just joking, Military Advisor Shen, please don't take it to heart. I heard that my wife's adopted sons, Kou Zhong and his companion, once ambushed you, Military Advisor Shen. The Wagang Army has also issued the 'Pushan Duke's Order' to arrest those two. Could you please explain to me how they ambushed you?"
Yuan Yueze asked with a smile.
"Those two are exceptionally skilled; they even managed to deceive the guards at Luo Yan's residence and infiltrate her side. But when they made their move, another master of the martial arts world, the 'Shadow Assassin' Yang Xuyan, also began to ambush Luo Yan. Fortunately, Luo Yan survived. Looking back, perhaps there was some misunderstanding with Kou Zhong and his companion,"
Shen Luo Yan replied.
Yuan Yueze fell into deep thought after hearing this.
During their wedding in Lingnan, Yuan Yueze had subtly hinted to Shen Luo Yan that many people might ambush and assassinate her, warning her to be careful. He hadn't spoken clearly at the time because he knew that Shen Luo Yan's loyalty to Li Mi was beyond what most people could imagine. It would be a pity for a woman like Shen Luoyan to die, but to let Li Mi benefit from her would be a miscalculation. According to Shuanglong, they only appeared after Yang Xuyan made his move, and their purpose was to help Shen Luoyan. However, Shen Luoyan's words revealed a misunderstanding rather than understanding. How could a woman as shrewd as Shen Luoyan have any misunderstandings? Her words were likely meant to lull Yuan Yueze into a false sense of security.
Hearing Shuanglong say the other day that Yang Xuyan had ambushed Shen Luoyan had left Yuan Yueze even more confused. Last year in Lingnan, Yuan Yueze had spoken with Shen Luoyan, who said that Yang Xuyan had already ambushed her once. Why would he ambush her again this year? He wondered which force was behind it.
Shuanglong possessed two extraordinary treasures. Not to mention the "Longevity Manual" from the Four Great Classical Novels, just the "Yang Gong Treasure Vault" alone was enough to attract the attention of powerful figures throughout the land. The Wagang Army, currently at the height of its power, would certainly not let such a treasure slip by. As Li Mi's top strategist, Shen Luoyan was undoubtedly the mastermind behind all the plans. The misunderstanding about the Twin Dragons' ambush and her encouragement of Li Mi to issue the "Pushan Decree" were likely part of her plan. It's very possible that Li Mi was unaware of Shen Luoyan's use of the Twin Dragons before the "Pushan Decree" was issued. Li Mi would naturally not let someone who dared to ambush the Wagang Army's strategist get away with it.
Thinking further, Shen Luoyan's visit today was likely related to winning over Yuan Yueze or confirming Yuan Yueze's purpose in residing in Luoyang. Moreover, it must have been meticulously planned before taking action.
"Since Strategist Shen has seen that I am unharmed, please return. I thank you for your kindness,"
Yuan Yueze said immediately, his mind racing, to ascertain Shen Luoyan's purpose. "You
are too kind, young master. I am even more grateful for your reminder that day; otherwise, I would never be sitting here today,"
Shen Luoyan said calmly.
"I said it before, it would be a great pity for a woman as talented and ambitious as Military Advisor Shen to die. I only admire talent, I have no other intentions." Yuan
Yueze thought of Yang Xuyan's second sneak attack failing indirectly because of his advice to Shen Luoyan, and found it amusing, so he smiled and said.
"I wonder why you reside in Luoyang, young master? I thought Lingnan and Jiangdu were more suitable for someone like you who dislikes worldly affairs."
Seeing that Yuan Yueze had already given her the order to leave, Shen Luoyan had no choice but to ask.
Yuan Yueze sighed inwardly, "Just as I thought! "
Shen Luoyan's plan was pretty much what he expected. First, she would use the Twin Dragons to attract the attention of various forces, and then use the Twin Dragons to attract Yuan Yueze's attention. Today, she came to express her gratitude to Yuan Yueze, to appear weak in front of him, to gain his sympathy and understanding, and then to explain the misunderstanding with the Twin Dragons, thus piquing Yuan Yueze's interest. She knew that in such a treacherous situation, once she revealed her true nature, she would definitely be at a disadvantage. Shen Luoyan seized this opportunity perfectly, asking the most crucial question.
A hint of helplessness flashed in Yuan Yueze's eyes. Shen Luoyan seemed to have something to rely on; she believed Yuan Yueze wouldn't harm her, hence her visit. The scheme of pushing her to the front lines was likely something Shen Luoyan herself had proposed to Li Mi! Shen Luoyan was confident in her talent, and the cunning Li Mi was no less so. Perhaps Li Mi was simply using Shen Luoyan as a pawn!
But Shen Luoyan had definitely overestimated Yuan Yueze. Yuan Yueze had no sentimentality towards women; his tenderness was reserved only for his wives. To outsiders, regardless of gender, Yuan Yueze could kill them without hesitation.
Shen Luoyan's mistake was that, regardless of whether she angered Yuan Yueze, he wouldn't kill her.
"Military Advisor Shen, what a brilliant plan! Disregarding your own safety to personally go to the 'battlefield'—this move truly earns my admiration. A true heroine!"
Yuan Yueze said slowly, staring at Shen Luoyan with a complex expression.
Stared at by those deep, clear eyes, as dark as the starry sky, Shen Luoyan felt a sudden, inexplicable panic. She wanted to speak, but didn't know how to explain. This scheme had been brewing for a long time, each step intricately linked, yet she hadn't expected Yuan Yueze to deduce everything from just a glance and a few words.
"Luoyan underestimated you, young master."
Shen Luoyan's beautiful eyes widened suddenly, her cherry lips slightly parted, her gaze filled with shock, fear, and other complex emotions, fixed on Yuan Yueze's face. Suddenly, her expression faltered, her gaze lowered, and she said bitterly,
"Military Advisor Shen, you've been in a world of deceit and intrigue all your life. A simple denial would suffice. Why admit it?"
Yuan Yueze asked curiously.
"It's not that I don't want to, but that I can't."
Shen Luoyan regained her composure after a moment, boldly meeting Yuan Yueze's eyes.
"What do you mean?"
Yuan Yueze chuckled and continued to ask.
“It’s all because of your eyes, young master, that I can’t bring myself to lie,”
Shen Luoyan replied bluntly.
Yuan Yueze smiled awkwardly, “If what you say is true, then wouldn’t I be able to control other people’s minds? It’s not as mystical as you make it out to be!”
Shen Luoyan was taken aback. Yuan Yueze was indeed right, but why did she feel powerless when she met his gaze? What was going on?
Seeing Shen Luoyan deep in thought, Yuan Yueze didn’t disturb her. He didn’t blame Shen Luoyan for her words and actions today. Because they were currently on different sides.
The idea of male superiority and female inferiority had persisted for thousands of years, and even with the emergence of feminists in later generations, it still couldn’t change many people’s views. In this era, the male-dominated status was even more unshakable. Shen Luoyan's achievements today are entirely due to her own hard work. There are certainly many women in this era whose talent rivals hers; for example, the former "Empress Dowager" Xiao Bei was no less capable than Shen Luoyan. However, their situations are completely different: one completely resigned herself to fate, while the other strived relentlessly and refused to admit defeat. There are countless hypocrites in the world. Just consider the Wagang Army; those hypocrites who despise women certainly look down on Shen Luoyan. Their admiration for her is mainly because she is beautiful!
Thinking this, Yuan Yueze's admiration for this remarkable woman deepened. His gaze towards Shen Luoyan no longer held any anger, only understanding and pity.
Shen Luoyan was lost in thought, a moment of clarity flashing through her mind. She looked up and met Yuan Yueze's eyes, and for no apparent reason, her heart trembled. This look of understanding was something she had never seen in a man's eyes before. Shen Luoyan had seen plenty of men's expressions of pity, and she had always scoffed at them, considering them hypocritical. But today, she could clearly sense that Yuan Yueze's pity was genuine.
"Young Master, Luoyan is already engaged..."
Unable to meet Yuan Yueze's burning gaze any longer, Shen Luoyan whispered, almost unconsciously.
Upon hearing this, both of them were stunned.
Shen Luoyan's usual dashing demeanor vanished; her face flushed crimson, and she lowered her head, as if to bury it between her breasts.
Seeing Shen Luoyan suddenly utter such a remark, and noticing her jade-like neck and delicate ears flushed red, Yuan Yueze, after a moment of distraction, sighed, "The most beautiful sight is that gentle lowering of her head, like a water lily shyly bowing to the cool breeze."
Shen Luoyan, still embarrassed by her inexplicable words, was overjoyed by this praise, yet also incredibly awkward.
"Why doesn't Young Master recruit Luoyan into the Song Clan?"
The ambiguous atmosphere lingered for a while, and Shen Luoyan, forcibly suppressing her fluttering heart, asked a strange question.
"It's not that I underestimate Military Advisor Shen's talent, but I have no interest in the affairs of the Song Clan,"
Yuan Yueze said calmly.
"Luoyan isn't arrogant enough to think she's so outstanding, but she knows her own limitations," Shen
Luoyan said, no longer shy, staring intently at Yuan Yueze.
"Why do you ask this? Would you be willing to give up your secret minister?"
Yuan Yueze asked with a smile.
"How annoying!"
Shen Luoyan said coquettishly, hearing the mockery in Yuan Yueze's words. She quickly snapped out of her daze and became shy, thinking to herself: What's wrong with me today? How could I speak like that? What if he misunderstands me as a slut?
She tried to steal a glance, but found Yuan Yueze's clear eyes staring directly at her. Shen Luoyan dared not look up and meet his gaze again.
"Stop being so presumptuous. You're already engaged. This man is indeed charming, but which of his wives isn't better than you?"
Shen Luoyan warned herself inwardly. Then, she couldn't help but think, "But his eyes don't seem fake; there's genuine affection in them. What's going on?"
As Shen Luoyan pondered these thoughts, Yuan Yueze's mind was also racing. Judging from Shen Luoyan's question, he knew she was quick-witted. Her question reflected the doubts of many: Was Yuan Yueze truly indifferent to the Song Clan's affairs, or was he putting on an act, coming to plot against Luoyang?
Yuan Yueze could also discern from Shen Luoyan's question how loyal she was to Li Mi. In Li Mi's eyes, who disregarded trifles for the sake of his great cause, Shen Luoyan was merely a useful pawn, someone he would sacrifice without hesitation for the sake of his cause at crucial moments. Thinking of this, Yuan Yueze felt a pang of pity once more.
"Don't ask me about my dealings with the Song Clan yet. I know Strategist Shen's loyalty to Li Mi. If I were to say now that Li Mi will surely be defeated, and he won't be able to take Luoyang, would you believe me or not?"
Yuan Yueze, who always appeared elegant and refined, shone with unparalleled wisdom in his eyes, exuding a heroic spirit as he mysteriously smiled at Shen Luoyan.
Shen Luoyan met Yuan Yueze's gaze again, her expression becoming complicated once more. From just one sentence, she had already deduced Yuan Yueze's general thoughts. But she was unwilling to let Li Mi be underestimated: "If 'Heavenly Blade' were still around, perhaps he would be a match for Lord Mi, but 'Heavenly Blade' has vanished. Looking at the world today, only Lord Mi..."
Halfway through his explanation, Yuan Yueze's lips curled slightly, the wisdom in his eyes vanishing, replaced by a cunning and shrewd look. For some reason, Shen Luoyan tightly shut her mouth, not daring to continue.
"Sigh!"
Shen Luoyan sighed softly, her heart in turmoil. She had now roughly guessed Yuan Yueze's true plan. His willingness to speak so frankly meant he would never let her leave the room; otherwise, such crucial information leaked, and their grand scheme would be severely jeopardized. Thinking of her impending death, Shen Luoyan had no other thoughts but to sigh. Her only regret was that she hadn't truly stood up for the woman.
"Why did you sigh, Military Advisor Shen?"
Yuan Yueze asked curiously.
"Luoyan has learned from your words that you came to Luoyang. If you are a man of great ambition, you shouldn't let me go,"
Shen Luoyan explained with a wry smile.
"Oh! I hadn't noticed that until you mentioned it. Thank you for reminding me, Military Advisor Shen,"
Yuan Yueze nodded.
Shen Luoyan was both amused and exasperated, finding Yuan Yueze utterly adorable.
"Military Advisor Shen, there's no need to worry. I have absolutely no intention of harming you, but what you say makes sense. If the news leaks, my personal loss is minor, but the overall plan will suffer greatly. So, please, Military Advisor Shen, come up with a solution that satisfies both sides?"
Yuan Yueze said with a smile.
Shen Luoyan was dizzy and didn't know how to answer. A feeling of being trapped in her own web welled up in her heart.
"How about we make a bet? If Lord Mi captures Luoyang, then you, my lord, must tell me your entire detailed plan. And if I lose, it's entirely up to you. How about that? I swear here that if I reveal even half a word of today's news to a second person, may I be struck down by heaven and earth."
Shen Luoyan proposed.
She didn't need to swear at all. Deceiving a fool like Yuan Yueze, she could just spread the news after leaving the house and have a blast. Shen Luoyan found Yuan Yueze unfathomable, and after their deep conversation, she felt a strange mix of emotions. Her own pragmatic, ruthless, and unscrupulous methods seemed to have vanished under Yuan Yueze's gaze.
"Alright, let's make a bet. If Strategist Shen loses, hehe..."
Yuan Yueze chuckled maliciously.
Under that strange gaze, Shen Luoyan paled, "You...don't go too far..."
"A kiss isn't too far, is it!"
Yuan Yueze shouted. Shen
Luoyan was mortified; she had clearly been thinking about something deeper.
"Luoyan firmly believes that Lord Mi is a wise ruler!"
Shen Luoyan said firmly, raising her head after calming down.
Yuan Yueze chuckled, not refuting her. Facts would prove everything; for someone as resolute as Shen Luoyan, or even someone like Shi Feixuan, wasting words was pointless.
The two sat silently for a long time, Shen Luoyan remaining motionless.
Yuan Yueze stared at her curiously. Was there something else?
"You...you just said...say...kiss..."
Shen Luoyan blushed and stammered softly, seeing Yuan Yueze's puzzled expression.
It turned out that Yuan Yueze had completely confused Shen Luoyan, her thoughts in disarray. The kiss was just a bet, but she had taken it as a kiss before leaving. A fool
wouldn't pass up a good opportunity.
Of course, Yuan Yueze wasn't a fool. He leaned forward and gave her a light peck on her delicate face, then laughed and left.
Shen Luoyan swayed slightly, sitting there dazed for a while before suddenly snapping back to reality and exclaiming, "He...what did he...do to me?"
She then remembered her engagement. She wanted to get angry, but found no anger at all; instead, she felt a surge of joy.
"What kind of person are you..."
Shen Luoyan turned and gazed at the closed door, muttering to herself.
Yuan Yueze returned to the backyard and inquired about the details of Shang Xiuxun and Li Xiuning's meeting. He then began discussing it repeatedly with the women.
※※※※※ Afternoon.
Wang Shichong's residence, study.
"Has the message been delivered?"
the Holy Venerable asked.
"Yes, it has been completely delivered. Yuan Yueze will definitely take the bait."
The thin, frail-looking man answered, his voice neither male nor female, sending chills down one's spine.
"Very well. You must also arrange for men to guard the area, making sure he doesn't escape beforehand!"
the Holy Venerable instructed.
"I guarantee this mission with my life!"
the man swore.
"Hmm, are you wondering why I didn't just seize the He Shi Bi directly?"
the Holy Venerable asked, noticing the man's slightly strange expression.
"I wouldn't dare. The Holy Venerable always plans carefully before acting, and his wisdom is beyond the comprehension of someone as dull as me,"
the man replied respectfully.
A glint flashed in the Holy Venerable's eyes. He said nothing more, his gaze turning to a thick ancient book on the table.
※※※※※ Outside Luoyang.
"We brothers are about to do something earth-shattering again!"
a man whispered from the dense forest.
"Hopefully, it won't cause any more trouble for Brother Yuan and Mother,"
another male voice chimed in.
"Hey, we'll just have to be careful!"
"Didn't Sister Zhen say not to worry about that broken jade?"
"Such a treasure, wouldn't it be a shame not to touch it?"...
Next chapter preview: The Oriole in the Back

Chapter 039 The Oriole in the Back
Two days later.
Yuan Yueze entered the bracelet to greet Shi Qingxuan. Greeting this beauty, as lovely as an orchid in a secluded valley, every day had gradually become a habit. As they became more familiar, occasionally teasing her, making her blush and act coquettishly, had also become a source of amusement for Yuan Yueze.
Entering the bracelet, he heard a flurry of sound, seemingly near yet far, seemingly intermittent yet seemingly continuous, coming from the flute. Yuan Yueze felt incredibly comfortable all over, as if his pores were breathing.
Pushing open the door, he saw Shi Qingxuan, who had finished playing the flute, sitting on the sofa, her beautiful eyes looking at Yuan Yueze with a half-smile.
"Is something wrong with me?"
Yuan Yueze looked down at himself and asked.
"Because of your appearance, so many people's fates have been changed. Qingxuan, are you right?"
Shi Qingxuan asked, not minding that Yuan Yueze was sitting beside her.
"Yes,"
Yuan Yueze replied, seemingly unaware of Shi Qingxuan's unusual solemnity.
"Then, aren't you ashamed of changing so many people's fates without permission?"
Shi Qingxuan asked again.
"I never intended to harm anyone, so why should I feel guilty?"
Yuan Yueze answered matter-of-factly.
"But the emperor should have been Li Shimin, yet you chose Song Shidao to be emperor. Isn't that going against the will of Heaven?"
Shi Qingxuan pressed further.
"Having read so many heavenly books, you should know our entire plan. What we have done will definitely benefit future generations, and we have no regrets,"
Yuan Yueze replied, staring at Shi Qingxuan.
"Then... you changed Qingxuan's fate, aren't you ashamed?"
Shi Qingxuan suddenly blushed and whispered.
“You made her read those books, which said Qingxuan should marry Xu Ziling, but Qingxuan looked at him for a long time the other day and didn’t find anything about him that interested her. Isn’t that your fault?”
Shi Qingxuan explained, seeing Yuan Yueze’s bewildered expression.
“…”
Yuan Yueze was speechless.
“If Qingxuan doesn’t mind that I have more than a dozen wives, then I’ll reluctantly give myself to you.”
Yuan Yueze said shamelessly.
Shi Qingxuan had intended to tease Yuan Yueze, but she was rendered speechless by his words. She lowered her head shyly, her jade hands fidgeting with the hem of her clothes, and said softly, “You… don’t talk nonsense… Qingxuan is just a mortal woman, how dare I aspire to such a high position…”
“What’s this about a high or low position? The important thing is a heart. Do you understand?”
Yuan Yueze laughed.
Shi Qingxuan's expression suddenly changed: "Then, are your current actions fair to Aunt Meixian and the others?"
This was a knot in Yuan Yueze's heart, and he immediately gave a bitter smile: "After winning Meixian's heart that day, I felt no interest in any other woman. However, my family has grown larger and larger. After Xiuxun comprehended some of the Heavenly Evolution Divination, she calculated that my family will have nearly a hundred people in the future. Even the gods cannot escape fate, so what can I do? I can only face them one by one. I cannot give them a complete man, but I can give them a happiness that no complete man can give."
"Qingxuan, don't worry about it. The compensation I just mentioned was just a joke."
Yuan Yueze, his heart heavy, said again with a sorrowful expression.
"Hehe! How can that be! They want you to compensate them!"
Shi Qingxuan covered her mouth with her jade hand and suddenly giggled.
Looking up, Yuan Yueze saw Shi Qingxuan's smug expression. He gave a wry smile, pulled her into a tight hug, and said fiercely, "You little brat, you dare to tease me?"
His masculine and refreshing aura was intoxicating, and Shi Qingxuan's jade-like face flushed again. She wanted to resist but felt a heat rising within her, her bones melting and her body going weak. She could only quietly lie in Yuan Yueze's arms, listening to his heartbeat.
"You...aren't you supposed to be dealing with enemies from all sides?"
Shi Qingxuan felt her mind starting to blur, so she forced herself to remain calm and whispered.
"Are you leaving now?"
Yuan Yueze sensed something was off in her words and quickly looked down to ask.
"Life here is like paradise on earth. How could Qingxuan bear to leave? Qingxuan misses the place where she has lived for over ten years and wants to go back and see it again. There are some things that need time to think through."
Shi Qingxuan didn't dare to look up, lying on Yuan Yueze's chest as she spoke.
Yuan Yueze understood that she was still bothered by the 'Evil King's' actions, so he didn't say anything. Zhu Yuyan still needs a few years to adjust, let alone Shi Qingxuan.
"Once you've figured it out, can I pursue Master Yu Qingxuan without any worries?"
Yuan Yueze teased.
Shi Qingxuan inwardly cursed; he was already hugging her like that, and he was still saying such things.
"Take some books and musical instruments back with you; it'll be good for you to read. I'll come see you whenever I have time,"
Yuan Yueze said, somewhat reluctantly.
"Don't worry, you helped Qingxuan break through to a level comparable to her mother's back then; ordinary people are no match for her!"
Shi Qingxuan's expression dimmed slightly when she spoke of Bi Xiuxin.
"Then I'll help Qingxuan refine her body and cultivate some more advanced skills, otherwise I'll really worry,"
Yuan Yueze suggested.
It was utterly shameless; they hadn't even officially defined their relationship, yet they were already talking about such intimate things between husband and wife.
However, Yuan Yueze was genuinely worried about Shi Qingxuan's safety.
Shi Qingxuan already knew all of Yuan Yueze's secrets, so she naturally understood the meaning behind his words. Her pretty face flushed again, and she scolded, "You bad man, always thinking about improper things. When did I agree to marry you!"
Yuan Yueze was stunned for a moment, then laughed and said, "If I had any dirty thoughts just now, may I be struck by lightning..."
Before he could finish speaking, Shi Qingxuan pressed her slender, jade-like fingers to his lips, a hint of affection flashing in her eyes. "Silly boy, don't talk nonsense. Qingxuan doesn't mean I don't believe you. My heart races the moment we meet, and you've been so worried about me that you didn't hesitate to reveal your astonishing past. I can read the love and pity in your eyes. But Qingxuan still has some doubts..."
Seeing Yuan Yueze's disappointed expression, Shi Qingxuan blushed and whispered, "Qingxuan just wants to live a peaceful life away from the mundane world, which is the same as your pursuit. But Qingxuan still has some things she needs to think through." Given Shi Qingxuan's personality and experiences, she had already gone to the limit. This was a veiled expression of her feelings. All
that was needed now was time,
like simmering porridge.
Yuan Yueze remained silent, gently holding her in his arms, feeling the deep love in the heart of this beautiful woman, burdened with sorrow that most could not bear. He felt his soul gradually leave his body, soaring to the heavens and descending to the depths, roaming freely and joyfully.
"Born in this era, many people are powerless to choose their own path, unable to enjoy peace or a happy, warm family life. Qingxuan is one of them. I hope you won't blame me for temporarily abandoning my carefree life and throwing myself into this turbulent world,"
Yuan Yueze sighed after a long pause.
He was afraid Shi Qingxuan would misunderstand him, after all, Yuan Yueze's actions had nothing to do with seclusion.
"Don't talk nonsense. Everyone understands that after reading so many books, you've gained some knowledge. Qingxuan knows you are kind-hearted and have lofty aspirations. With great power comes great responsibility. If you ignore this chaotic world, people will truly look down on you! Although you've never said 'for the country, for the people, for all under heaven,' you are working towards this goal in your heart, and Qingxuan is proud of you,"
Shi Qingxuan said shyly in a soft voice.
A holy light shone on her beautiful face, and her lovely eyes flashed with affection and wisdom.
"Don't praise me anymore, or I'll lose my bearings! I know that only one can untangle their own knots. Although I'm reluctant to let you go, I can't find any reason to keep you here. Qingxuan should have already read the books; many things are beyond the scope of what's written in them, but some things remain unchanged. You should also be aware of the crises you might encounter later. Don't do anything reckless. Remember, someone is always worried about you."
Yuan Yueze gently stroked the jade-like woman's cascading black hair, instructing her.
Understanding Yuan Yueze's words, Shi Qingxuan's face blossomed like a radiant flower, her beauty dazzling, and two lines of tears, a mixture of gratitude and happiness, streamed down her cheeks. She nestled tightly against Yuan Yueze's chest, nodding vigorously.
Yuan Yueze suddenly slapped his forehead as if he had just remembered something and exclaimed, "That's right! I can pass on some of the essence from the 'Evil Emperor's Relic' to you. With more strength, I'll feel more at ease."
Shi Qingxuan quickly broke free from his embrace and asked curiously, "I heard that the relic was in your possession that day. Why didn't Master Lu tell Qingxuan? I specifically went to see Master Lu when I came to Dongping this time, and I was wondering how he had become so young."
Yuan Yueze laughed heartily and said, "Now you should understand your doubts. As for the relic, it's like this..."
After a moment, Shi Qingxuan listened to his explanation and nodded in understanding. She then asked, "Why didn't you give it to Wanwan even though she was pestering you, but you were willing to give it to Qingxuan so easily?"
Yuan Yueze replied, "You two are different. Once her power increases significantly, her hands will be stained with more blood. I believe that Qingxuan's purpose in learning martial arts is not to harm others, but to protect herself."
A strange light flashed in Shi Qingxuan's eyes, and she nodded.
Yuan Yueze closed his eyes and explored for a while before finally taking out a small, sealed bronze jar.
Shi Qingxuan curiously reached out her jade-like hand, but the moment she touched it, she recoiled as if electrocuted, her face filled with horror. After a rapid, labored breath, she asked, "Why did a terrifying, blood-soaked scene appear in my mind when I touched the handle of the bronze jar, and why did I hear the shrill cries of countless wronged souls demanding their lives?"
She then glanced at the seemingly unaffected Yuan Yueze and asked, "Didn't you feel that way?"
Yuan Yueze smiled and said, "When I first touched it, I felt the same way you did, but as long as you keep your mind calm, you won't be afraid. Those are all illusions. I thought you knew a lot about this relic."
Shi Qingxuan nodded and smiled, "What Qingxuan knows is only what's recorded; it's very different from seeing the real thing."
Yuan Yueze opened the lid and reached in to take out a fist-sized yellow crystal. The crystal seemed both hard and soft, its translucent interior revealing slowly flowing, cloud-like, blood-red patterns, emitting a faint yellow light.
This was the second time Yuan Yueze had touched the Evil Emperor's Relic. Even with his current cultivation level, he could barely withstand the deathly aura within.
Carefully placing the relic on the coffee table, Yuan Yueze let out a long sigh.
Shi Qingxuan spoke again, "There's only 80% left. Who absorbed the other 20%?"
She already knew the Yuan family's cultivation methods; it was impossible for them to have absorbed the primordial essence from the relic, as those were two different types of primordial energy.
Yuan Yueze leaned close to her delicate ear and whispered something.
Shi Qingxuan's expression immediately turned strange. She covered her mouth with her jade hand, incredulously saying, "You...you..."
Yuan Yueze shrugged and smiled.
Shi Qingxuan gave a soft snort and turned away, ignoring him.
After a while, Shi Qingxuan recovered.
Yuan Yueze used himself as a bridge, letting Shi Qingxuan lean against his back.
The mixed energy within the relic was open, only the primordial essence was closed. The method of communicating with the vast mixed energy within the relic was through the exchange of true energy. Absorbing the impurities within the relic was not difficult; the problem lay in controlling the amount of impurities entering and filtering out the harmful and unhelpful death energy and evil energy that followed.
To prevent these impurities from invading Shi Qingxuan's body, Yuan Yueze adopted this method: he picked up the relic, used his vast primordial energy to break through the impurities, and unleashed a large amount of the dormant primordial essence within, like a burst dam.
With Shi Qingxuan's current physique, she could only absorb 10% of the primordial essence, but even so, it was equivalent to decades of cultivation.
All of this happened in the blink of an eye.
After separating the relic from Shi Qingxuan, Yuan Yueze needed to regulate his breathing for a while before he could force out the small amount of impurities that had invaded his meridians.
Shi Qingxuan meditated for nearly half an hour, and when she opened her beautiful eyes again, they shone brightly as she looked at Yuan Yueze with joy.
Yuan Yueze nodded and said, "Qingxuan's 'telepathic connection' has reached its peak."
Hearing him mention 'telepathic connection,' Shi Qingxuan seemed to think of Bi Xiuxin, and her face darkened.
Yuan Yueze hurriedly changed the subject, and Shi Qingxuan finally forgot her troubles, giggling occasionally.
After a while, Yuan Yueze put away the relic and prepared to see Shi Qingxuan off.
Just as he sat down, Yun Yuzhen came in. Seeing Shi Qingxuan playfully teasing Yuan Yueze with a shy expression, Yun Yuzhen giggled and handed him an invitation, saying, "Husband, Wang Shichong just sent this invitation, inviting you to a banquet. Would you like to go and see?"
"People in Luoyang know my habits. If I don't want to go, who would dare to force me?"
Yuan Yueze asked curiously.
"Things aren't that simple. Wang Shichong dared to send an invitation at this time, so he must have some scheme, or he's not afraid that you won't attend. In that case, husband, you can go and see what tricks he's playing. With us sisters at home, there shouldn't be any problems. A banquet will only last two or three hours at most,"
Yun Yuzhen advised.
Yuan Yueze nodded, then said to the two women, "Qingxuan plans to return to Huanglong's old territory for a while. Yuzhen, take her back. I'll go see Wang Shichong now."
"Little sister, from now on we're family,"
Yun Yuzhen teased Shi Qingxuan.
Shi Qingxuan blushed. Her relationship with Yuan Yueze wasn't really that close. But their relationship was complicated, and she couldn't find a way to refute Yun Yuzhen, which only made Yun Yuzhen misunderstand further.
After briefly explaining to Yun Yuzhen and bidding farewell to Shi Qingxuan, Yuan Yueze went out alone towards Wang Shichong's residence.
The Minister's Residence was situated in the heart of Luoyang. Two imposing marble lions guarded its vermilion gates and red walls. A plaque made of thousand-year-old redwood hung high above, gleaming with three large, golden characters: "Minister's Residence." Each character was crafted from ten pounds of pure gold, shimmering brilliantly in the sunlight and displaying the family's illustrious status to passersby.
The last time Wang Shichong held a grand banquet was at the "West Garden," a distinctive feature of Luoyang, built against the natural landscape outside the western wall of the outer city. Today, the invitation clearly stated that the banquet would be held at the Minister's Residence.
Upon seeing Yuan Yueze arrive, the guards at the gate immediately greeted him with smiles, suggesting that Wang Shichong had made all the arrangements.
Entering through the gate, Yuan Yueze, led by servants, passed through a series of corridors and arrived at a spacious courtyard. Two rows of banquet tables were laid out horizontally in the courtyard, opposite which stood Wang Shichong's residence. The courtyard gate was wide open, and through the courtyard, one could see an even larger table set up in the main hall. The courtyard was bustling with activity; over a hundred people were gathered in twos and threes, chatting idly. Everyone seemed to be in high spirits, seemingly discussing matters of romance and pleasure.
Yuan Yueze glanced at the crowd, and immediately a dozen or so people sensed his gaze, turning their heads to stare back at him with piercing eyes. Among them were Li Shimin and Fu Qian, whom he had met before. Others were Wang Shichong's subordinates, such as Yang Gongqing, Lang Feng, and Song Mengqiu.
As Yuan Yueze was observing them, a man of about thirty years old, with rugged features and hair like iron wires, walked out from the crowd. A striking scar adorned his dark left cheek, his imposing figure resembling a bald man, exuding a rugged and powerful masculinity and domineering presence.
"I am Tuli. Seeing Brother Yuan's brilliance today, I know the rumors are true! Truly, no one can compare!"
"So it's Brother Tuli of the Turks, what an honor!"
Upon learning the other's identity, Yuan Yueze sized him up again before returning the greeting with a cupped hand.
Rumors in the martial world about Yuan Yueze were that he was capricious and averse to etiquette. Tuli was taken aback by Yuan Yueze's unexpected politeness, then burst into laughter: "I heard that the Fairy Master of Jingzhai had a long conversation with Brother Yuan on the Tianjin Bridge the other night. Brother Yuan's knowledge is admirable, and the principles he spoke of are timeless and profound, truly enviable!"
Yuan Yueze's heart sank, his eyes glancing at Li Shimin. Li Shimin maintained his composed and magnanimous smile, nodding slightly to Yuan Yueze.
Yuan Yueze was instantly filled with resentment!
The other day, when Wanwan discussed matters with Shi Feixuan and Li Shimin, there were only four people present. Although Wanwan enjoys playing pranks, she would never spread this matter, as it would not benefit the Demonic Sect in the slightest. Therefore, it must have been Shi Feixuan or Li Shimin who spread the news!
Yuan Yueze had finally managed to feign injury to divert attention, but with Li Shimin or Shi Feixuan's actions, everyone's attention was once again focused on him! Especially the principles Yuan Yueze spoke of; once these spread, any ambitious warlord vying for control of the Central Plains would not underestimate him. Originally, Yuan Yueze was a ticking time bomb in Luoyang with unclear objectives, but now, after hearing his principles, who would believe that Yuan Yueze lacked ambition? Li Shimin might have embellished the rumors, firstly to shift the attention of various forces from himself to Yuan Yueze, and secondly to keep Yuan Yueze extremely busy. This move was indeed ruthless. Whether Yuan Yueze came to Luoyang for his own sake or for the Song Clan, he couldn't escape the machinations of those with ulterior motives!
This also meant that the paths Yuan Yueze and Li Shimin had taken would no longer intersect.
But the Li Tang dynasty should have some connection with the Turks, so why did the Turks bring it up first? Wasn't this betraying their ally?
As his thoughts raced, Yuan Yueze was about to return the greeting when he noticed a graceful, naturally beautiful young woman approaching. Her eyes sparkled with captivating charm, seemingly both tender and shy. Her demeanor was delicate and graceful, exuding an indescribable allure.
"This humble servant is Rong Jiaojiao, greetings, sir,"
Rong Jiaojiao said with a graceful curtsy.
Last time Yuan Yueze attended a banquet, he drank himself into a stupor with a group of men. Today, not only were there women present, but one of the "Twin Beauties of Luoyang." However, Yuan Yueze had no liking for such alluring women, forcing a smile and nodding slightly as a greeting.
Rong Jiaojiao seemed to sense Yuan Yueze's disgust but didn't mind. Passing by him, she whispered, "Sect Leader Zhu has already conveyed the matter. I must congratulate you on winning Sect Leader Zhu's heart. You are indeed no ordinary person!"
Yuan Yueze was greatly surprised!
Zhu Yuyan had said a few days ago that she would go to discuss matters of the Demonic Sect, but the two had just staged a fake injury act. How could Zhu Yuyan tell outsiders about their relationship so quickly? Rong Fengxiang was one of the eight great masters of the Demonic Sect, the "Demon Daoist" Pi Chen, and did indeed have some relationship with Zhu Yuyan. But Zhu Yuyan hadn't even revealed a word to her most beloved disciple, so how could she tell anyone else in the Demonic Sect? Furthermore, Rong Jiaojiao and Bichen are actually a fake father and daughter. Her true identity is a member of the Great Ming Venerable Sect, so Zhu Yuyan has even less reason to tell her!
It must be a trick by the Great Ming Venerable Sect to deceive me! Wang Shichong was also a member of the 'Atom' organization, so their relationship is probably even more complicated!
In a split second, his quick wit kicked in. Without pausing, Yuan Yueze returned Tu Li's greeting with a cupped-fist salute, then turned to Rong Jiaojiao with a surprised expression, saying, "You think I've won over Sect Leader Zhu's heart? Is the Sect Leader Zhu you speak of the Empress Yin? You can't say such things! A few days ago, I was captivated by the
Empress Yin's charm and tried to flirt with her in the street, only to be thoroughly humiliated!" Rong Jiaojiao wasn't surprised by Yuan Yueze's answer. She smiled seductively and whispered, "Now everyone's saying that after you flirted with Sect Leader Zhu, you've won her heart. That's why I asked!"
Yuan Yueze felt a wave of relief and replied exaggeratedly, "You mustn't talk nonsense, Miss. If my tigresses at home find out, I'm afraid I won't have a place to sleep tonight."
Hearing this, Rong Jiaojiao giggled, gave Yuan Yueze a flirtatious wink, and gracefully walked into the crowd.
Yuan Yueze secretly sighed, cursing the harlot in his heart. At the same time, they dared not relax any longer. They had been tested as soon as they entered, and tonight's banquet seemed anything but simple; this appeared to be just the beginning!
※※※※※ Yuan Family Courtyard.
Shan Meixian, Xiao Bei, Wei Zhenzhen, Fu Junzhuo, and Shang Xiuxun sat around a round table, discussing what might happen next and their corresponding countermeasures.
"Zhenzhen, did you examine the He Shi Bi? Was your whereabouts discovered? Is there anything magical about the He Shi Bi?"
Shan Meixian asked.
"Don't worry, sister. I wasn't discovered when I sneaked in. The He Shi Bi isn't particularly magical; it just contains a profound Taoist aura,"
Wei Zhenzhen replied.
"No wonder everyone's fighting over it; even cultivators are interested in that jade,"
Fu Junzhuo said, pouting.
This family all used Yuan Yueze's reckless cultivation method to absorb the energy of heaven and earth, so naturally they wouldn't be interested in other powers.
"Junzhuo, don't be careless. That power may be insignificant to us, but to others, it might be an incredibly powerful force."
Xiao Bei held her hand and smiled.
"Yu Zhen told me that Bi Xuan and Shi Zhixuan seem to be very interested in this jade. I guess they heard that Ning Daoqi has been trying to comprehend it for three years without any success, so they want to give it a shot!"
Shan Meixian said.
"They will definitely try to snatch it secretly! But the impact shouldn't be too great, so let's not worry about it and focus our attention on the forces behind the scenes!"
Wei Zhenzhen interjected.
The women all nodded.
"Eh! Where's Sister Yu Zhen?"
Shang Xiuxun asked, looking around.
"Your Qingxuan sister probably won't escape her husband's clutches either!"
Shan Meixian laughed, remembering Yun Yuzhen's instructions before giving Shi Qingxuan away.
"Hehe! That's good, Qingxuan sister is actually very pitiful."
Shang Xiuxun giggled.
"I wonder what Wang Shichong is up to
. I hope my husband can handle it!" Fu Junzhuo looked at Shan Meixian with a questioning expression.
Shan Meixian gave her a reassuring smile.
After Yuan Yueze took his seat, he sat next to Li Shimin. Li Shimin, surprisingly, showed no sign of surprise and drank heartily with Yuan Yueze. This further puzzled Yuan Yueze, who wondered if Li Shimin was merely putting on an act or if the rumors of his harm weren't true. He then thought: with his abilities, he had indeed detected only four people within a hundred-zhang radius at that time. Even if it wasn't Li Shimin, it must have been that girl Shi Feixuan who was behind it!
Despite his thoughts, Yuan Yueze maintained a facade of friendliness; outsiders would have assumed they were longtime friends.
Watching Wang Shichong, seated high in the main seat, clinking glasses with the others, Yuan Yueze's doubts deepened: If I were to take my leave now, he wouldn't dare say anything, because that's just my personality. But judging from his expression, he didn't seem worried about me leaving now. So why did he specifically call me here? Just for drinking and entertainment? That's impossible!
Catching a glint of impatience in Yuan Yueze's eyes, Wang Shichong's lips curled into a strange smile.
"Thank you all for attending the banquet today. It's quite a privilege for Young Master Yuan to be the guest of honor! Please enjoy yourselves! I'll take my leave in a moment,"
Wang Shichong said with a long laugh.
The moment he turned to leave, a jade pendant at his waist caught Yuan Yueze's attention!
That jade pendant was a gift from Yuan Yueze to Dugu Feng! The exquisitely carved white and green phoenix on it was its most prominent mark!
Why was this jade pendant in Wang Shichong's hands? Given Dugu Feng's feelings for Yuan Yueze, she would never give this jade pendant to an outsider, let alone her family's old rival, Wang Shichong. Picked it up? That was even more impossible! Judging from Wang Shichong's cunning eyes, it was clear that he deliberately showed the jade pendant to Yuan Yueze as he turned away, seemingly as a threat, or perhaps with some other meaning.
Could it be that Wang Shichong's intelligence network was too strong, already aware of his relationship with Dugu Feng, and deliberately captured Dugu Feng to threaten him? That didn't seem likely. Although Yuan Yueze and Wang Shichong had explicitly stated they had no interest in officialdom, they had always maintained amicable relations. What had happened to Wang Shichong that made him so blatantly escalate their strained relationship at this time? Was it related to the Great Ming Revered Sect?
Dugu Feng was, after all, from a prominent family, the Dugu clan, which had many skilled members. How could she have been captured by Wang Shichong? Even if she hadn't been captured, the jade pendant and the strange look in his eyes seemed to be warning Yuan Yueze, preventing him from acting rashly! He
suddenly remembered Xiao Bei repeatedly telling Yuan Yueze not to underestimate Wang Shichong, that this man was completely different in public and private, and that his true strength was a mystery!
Yuan Yueze's mind raced with these thoughts. He certainly didn't dare to act carelessly, inwardly cursing himself for not going to the Dugu family sooner to handle things properly; otherwise, how could Wang Shichong have picked up such a loophole!
"I must subtly inquire about him when he comes out!"
Yuan Yueze thought to himself.
※※※※※ Outside Luoyang City.
After running for more than twenty miles in one breath, the two dragons finally stopped in a dense forest at the foot of a mountain, panting and sitting on a large rock, wiping the sweat from their foreheads.
"Let me see it quickly!"
Kou Zhong said anxiously.
Xu Ziling untied the small bag at his waist, opened the wooden box, and smiled, "Look!"
A pure white, flawless jade seal, shimmering with precious light, appeared in Xu Ziling's left hand. The seal was engraved with a pattern of five dragons intertwined, the craftsmanship exquisite, but one corner was missing, which was filled with gold.
The two men trembled at the sight.
This was the priceless treasure that the heroes of the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods fought over, the only one of its kind in the world, and the legendary tale of "Returning the Jade Intact to Zhao," which Qin Shi Huang obtained to conquer the world and unify the Central Plains.
Kou Zhong reached out and took it, then cried out, "Ah! Why is it so hot?"
Xu Ziling was stunned and said, "There's no reason for it; it's clearly as cold as ice."
Their feelings differed. After a long pause, Xu Ziling said, "This jade fruit is extraordinary. It's cold yet warm, hot yet cold, and it seems to contain boundless energy. If we study it carefully, we'll surely gain unexpected benefits."
Kou Zhong smiled bitterly, "The problem is, even the nuns and monks of Cihang Jingzhai and Jingnian Chan Temple can't handle it. What can we do?"
Xu Ziling said calmly, "I have a way. Since there's still an hour before dawn, let's immediately begin studying it and hope to gain something. If we can't make a significant progress in our skills in a short time, tomorrow will be our day of suffering. We might even implicate Mother and Brother Yuan! Those monks have already recognized us!"
"Wait, don't you think we stole it too easily? When I was surrounded by those four monks, I always felt a strange yet powerful force secretly helping me!"
Kou Zhong said with a strange expression.
Xu Ziling replied, "You're always so mystical! Those monks are all people of propriety. What can they do against rascals like us who never follow the usual path?"
"Then stop talking nonsense. I just channeled my true energy into it and found no change whatsoever. Do you have any methods to activate the strange energy within?"
Kou Zhong nodded, tapping the He Shi Bi jade.
"Just now, when I touched this treasure, I unconsciously recited the 'Concentration Technique,' and I felt a sense of mental assimilation with it. It must be related to this treasure. If we gather Yin and Yang energies and use the 'Concentration Technique' as an aid, we can definitely absorb its power!"
Xu Ziling said after a moment of contemplation.
The two acted immediately, sitting face-to-face on the large rock, their four hands squeezing the He Shi Bi jade in the middle. Their eyes met, and their true energy flowed forth.
The jade instantly shone brightly, overflowing with colorful light! As the expressions on their faces grew increasingly painful, the brightness of the He Shi Bi jade continued to increase dramatically, shining like the bright moon in the sky, its colorful rays dazzling and incredibly eerie.
They didn't know how many times or how much time had passed. Suddenly, the two dragons felt a sharp pain, as if the sky had collapsed and the earth had split open. Their meridians seemed to explode, and their bodies were thrown backward simultaneously, the dull jade disc falling onto the stone.
The two lay on the ground, panting, unable to get up for a moment.
"Hehe! Thanks to you two lads!"
A soft, gentle voice seemed to come from all directions, drifting and uncertain.
The two dragons' breathing was still not calm. Hearing this feminine voice, they dared not be careless, forcibly gathering their true energy to be on guard, looking left and right: "Who? Come out!"
"Isn't this Empress right here?"
The two dragons' gazes simultaneously focused on a single point as the voice rang out.
What they saw was a ball of fire! A raging fire! Dazzlingly hot, a fireball radiating intense heat like a meteorite from outer space!
In the blink of an eye, Shuanglong saw a woman in red, draped in a light veil, standing gracefully on the large rock, holding the He Shi Bi jade. Her long, lustrous black hair cascaded casually over her shoulders, framing a delicate forehead, arched eyebrows, and long eyelashes. Her long, phoenix-like eyes gazed at the He Shi Bi jade. Her skin was as smooth as jade, her figure slender and graceful, her waist slim, her neck beautiful. The casually worn palace veil accentuated her elegant and refined demeanor, making her seem like a fairy descended from heaven.
So, what was that ball of fire all about?
What horrified the two dragons even more was that this woman possessed some kind of magical technique; just one glance was enough to steal their souls. They felt their bodies burning with heat, their blood surging, as if all the blood in their bodies was flowing towards their manhood, their physiological reactions unexpectedly aroused!
Xu Ziling, whose mental cultivation was quite good, noticed the abnormality and immediately snorted coldly, startling the dazed Kou Zhong. Then, the two silently recited the "Concentration Technique" to suppress their blood and qi.
"Hey! You witch! What kind of sorcery are you using!"
Kou Zhong's mind raced, realizing that the other party was likely practicing some extremely sophisticated seductive art; otherwise, she wouldn't have been able to so easily arouse the desire within the two dragons. He immediately shouted angrily.
"Your mission is complete. I, in my mercy, will send you on your final journey!"
The woman in red carefully put the dull He Shi Bi into her waist pouch, her tone turning cold.
Before she finished speaking, the two dragons' faces were once again filled with horror.
The world instantly transformed into a sea of fire, the scorching heat enough to suffocate anyone who looked upon it, filling the twin dragons with unbearable terror.
The next moment, the woman in red appeared atop their heads like a vengeful ghost, her hands conjuring countless exquisite and profound palm techniques, flames gradually rising from her palms, seemingly real yet illusory.
Seeing her slender hands grow larger and larger before their eyes, the twin dragons felt their minds were completely controlled by this terrifying woman.
In their final moments, the twin dragons unleashed unprecedented potential, meeting the woman in red head-on, exchanging five or six fierce attacks and defenses in an instant.
After two screams, the twin dragons coughed up blood, forcefully blasted away.
Under the influence of the intense heat capable of boiling iron and melting gold, incinerating everything, the twin dragons, their internal energy increasingly sluggish, could only lament that they shouldn't have coveted the He Shi Bi jade!
Just as the woman in red gained a complete and overwhelming advantage, a murderous glint flashed in her eyes again, but then suddenly stopped. With her extraordinary ability to sense qi, she suddenly felt herself locked onto by an overwhelming and undeniable sword force. Eight of her vital points were now targets; if she didn't focus on neutralizing it, the consequences would be dire.
The woman in red didn't continue her pursuit of the twin dragons but instead focused on defense. A faint, almost invisible white light shot from afar, like a thunderclap, aimed directly at the woman in red! The sword strike appeared weak and powerless. Yet, the woman in red understood that this sword strike was masterful in its apparent clumsiness, concealing endless variations within its unchanging form; the sword's edge struck before it even arrived! The attacker seemed to possess a spiritual connection with his weapon, emanating an unfathomable aura that left the woman in red in a dilemma.
A look of disdain flashed in the woman in red's eyes. The newcomer unleashed eight sword strikes in a single motion, yet no matter how unpredictable the moves, the woman in red could always pinpoint the exact point of attack, intercepting and blocking them before they could strike. Her techniques were devoid of fancy flourishes, yet brimming with naturalness. Her mastery of supernatural abilities had reached an unparalleled peak, truly achieving a state of effortless mastery.
Before the newcomer could even regain his footing, the woman in red swiftly countered, delivering a simple yet powerful palm strike. In the white figure's eyes, the force and speed of this strike were impossible to discern; most importantly, its trajectory seemed to constantly shift angles, making it impossible to predict where it would ultimately strike.
The white figure, his techniques rustled and lacking in combat experience, still unleashed his strongest sword strike to meet the attack.
A crisp clash followed, and the white figure was sent flying backward.
A single exchange was completed in an instant. The woman in red faced the white figure, finally seeing his face clearly. But for some reason, her body trembled slightly.
"Sister-in-law!"
Shuanglong was overjoyed to see who it was. Suddenly, he realized that the arid, scorching, lifeless sea of fire around him, like a desert, had vanished. In an instant, Shuanglong understood that everything just now was merely the aura and spiritual power emanating from the woman in red.
However, the heat within his body remained. With the change in his state of mind, his meridians immediately felt burning and uncomfortable. He dared not speak again and hurriedly calmed himself to regulate his breathing.
"You have quite the scheme! The traps you set in the south and east of the city are also yours!"
the woman in white said coldly.
The woman in red did not answer, her eyes showing not even a flicker of emotion, but carefully scrutinizing the woman in white.
"Don't dare to admit it? What is your relationship with Wang Shichong? Do you think that by restraining my husband you can be worry-free?"
The woman in white was not in a hurry to attack and asked again.
A flicker of surprise crossed the red-clad woman's eyes. She said calmly, "I have no relation to Wang Shichong. Do you dare answer one question for me?"
The white-clad woman was also taken aback, not having time to guess whether the other was telling the truth or not. "Answer it then. What's there to say about daring or not daring?"
"What's your name?"
the red-clad woman asked, a question that left everyone scratching their heads.
"Xiao Bei!"
The red-clad woman's eyes remained unmoved, further bewildering Xiao Bei. Just as he was about to attack,
the red-clad woman slowly uttered a sentence that was even more incomprehensible: "If you must live, remember to be self-reliant and never waste your talent!" With that, the red-clad woman vanished in a flash!
Seeing Xiao Bei standing there motionless after hearing that incomprehensible sentence, the two dragons were even more perplexed.
※※※※※ "Reporting to Your Excellency, Young Master Yuan requests an audience."
Wang Shichong had just left the banquet and was enjoying a massage from his maid in the backyard when a report came from outside.
"Hmm, please come in, Young Master Yuan."
Wang Shichong dismissed the maids and sat down at his desk.
"Minister, I apologize for disturbing you,"
Yuan Yueze said anxiously as he entered the room.
Wang Shichong chuckled inwardly and asked humbly, "Why aren't you enjoying the food and wine in the front courtyard? Is there something you need from me?"
"Let's not beat around the bush. I'd like to ask about the origin of this jade pendant!"
Yuan Yueze pointed directly to the jade pendant at Wang Shichong's waist.
"Oh! This jade pendant was specially prepared for me by my son. You may examine it if you're interested."
Wang Shichong untied the pendant and handed it over.
Yuan Yueze wanted to inquire further about its origin, but since Wang Shichong had already handed it over, he had no choice but to accept it. After examining it, Yuan Yueze's expression changed slightly, and he thought to himself: Oh no!
Seeing Yuan Yueze return the pendant, bow, and quickly run away, Wang Shichong revealed a strange smile.

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