Category: The Dragon Egg I Nurtured for a Thousand Years Finally Hatched (Page 5 of 7)

Chapter 27: Did You Kill Feng Xuan?

 

Under Long Ling’s melancholic and resentful gaze, Su Muluo comfortingly patted his head.

 

Long Ling, looking very unhappy, grabbed Su Muluo’s hand, leaned in, and hugged his phoenix’s waist.

 

Su Muluo pushed him away: “Go away, I’m not letting you hug me.”

 

Long Ling wouldn’t let go.

 

Su Muluo: “I’m going to take a bath!”

 

Long Ling pretended not to hear.

 

Su Muluo: “If you don’t let go, I’ll hit you!”

 

Long Ling buried his face in Su Muluo’s shoulder, snuggling and rubbing against him.

 

Su Muluo: “……”

 

Su Muluo quickly tugged at the feather bracelet on Long Ling’s wrist.

 

Long Ling: “!”

 

He immediately let go, protecting his bracelet.

 

“This is something the phoenix said was for me!”

 

“Then what about what I just said?” Su Muluo said expressionlessly, “Still taking advantage of me.”

 

Long Ling huffed, “It’s because the phoenix doesn’t comfort me.”

 

Su Muluo asked, “Comfort you about what? Comfort you about being poor?”

 

Long Ling was even more displeased, grabbing Su Muluo’s hand again and refusing to let him go. “I don’t care; I want the phoenix to comfort me.”

 

Su Muluo tried to pull his hand free but couldn’t. He looked at Long Ling for a few seconds, then smiled and said, “Alright, alright, I’ll comfort you. It’s okay to be a little poor; as long as you’re good-looking, that’s fine.”

 

Long Ling found this a bit odd and not very comforting. However, he still enjoyed being praised by the phoenix, so he let go of Su Muluo’s hand.

 

He then eagerly asked, “Can I go take a bath with the phoenix?”

 

Su Muluo patted his head, the corner of his mouth curving up slightly. “Dream on.”

 

And then he went to take a bath alone.

 

The sound of water came from the bathroom, and Long Ling, feeling bored, sat on the sofa browsing through Su Muluo’s phone.

 

There was a lot of content on the phone, but he wasn’t interested in any of it; he preferred being with his phoenix.

 

When could he bathe with the phoenix?

 

Black Dragon thought whimsically.

 

Do phoenixes have mating seasons? If they do, could he cuddle with his phoenix then?

 

Also, can phoenixes lay eggs? Would they lay a nest of beautiful baby birds for him?

 

Long Ling recalled the memories left to him by the dragon clan and realized they didn’t mention whether phoenixes could lay eggs for their dragons. He couldn’t help but feel a bit regretful.

 

When Su Muluo came out of the bathroom, he saw Long Ling sitting on the sofa, intensely focused on his phone.

 

What could be so interesting?

 

Curious, Su Muluo walked over and glanced at the screen—right at the top of the search bar was “Bird Reproduction Methods.”

 

Also “Bird Egg Care.”

 

Su Muluo: “……”

 

Su Muluo: “???”

 

At that moment, the phoenix almost had a fit. He immediately snatched the phone back, shocked and incredulous. “What are you looking at??”

 

Checking out other pretty birds while he was in the bath??

 

That’s too much!

 

Thinking this, he angrily gave Long Ling a tap.

 

Long Ling looked innocent and said, “I just wanted to check in advance to see how phoenixes lay eggs and what preparations need to be made.”

 

Su Muluo: “???”

 

Leaving aside whether he could lay eggs, this dragon wanted to prepare in advance?

 

Preparing ten thousand years in advance?

 

So, Su Muluo’s face darkened, and he said coldly, “Then you’ll be disappointed. I can’t lay eggs. If you want eggs, find another bird!”

 

After saying that, he turned to leave, but Long Ling quickly got up and hugged him.

 

“I’m sorry, phoenix, don’t be angry.” Long Ling was very quick to apologize, hugging his phoenix tightly, leaning in to whisper affectionately in his ear, “I want the phoenix, not eggs.”

 

Su Muluo ignored him.

 

Long Ling buried his face in Su Muluo’s hair, rubbing and snuggling, “I was wrong. Don’t be angry, phoenix. I like you the most, you’re the prettiest—”

 

With sticky sweet talk and his breath tickling Su Muluo’s ear, Su Muluo felt itchy, pushed him away, and said, “Let go of me.”

 

“Not letting go,” Long Ling said, “I’ll let go once the phoenix isn’t angry.”

 

And he continued to snuggle.

 

Su Muluo felt that what was clinging to him wasn’t a dragon but a clingy big dog. He wasn’t really angry but finally couldn’t stand being snuggled any longer and laughed, “Alright, alright, I’m not angry anymore. Stop snuggling me!”

 

Long Ling finally relented and happily rested his chin on Su Muluo’s shoulder, no longer snuggling.

 

“The phoenix is the best,” he said with a smile, “Next time I won’t search for those weird things anymore.”

 

Su Muluo replied, “I’m not that great. The birds you were looking at earlier were much prettier than me.”

 

Long Ling saw this as a tricky question and immediately became serious. “No, they’re all bald birds and ugly. They don’t look as good as the phoenix.” He then added, “My phoenix is the prettiest bird. No one can compare.”

 

Su Muluo fell silent, but judging by his expression, it was clear that he was somewhat pleased by his dragon’s words.

 

Long Ling tightly hugged his phoenix, thinking that even if the phoenix could lay eggs, after those little birds or dragon hatchlings were born, the phoenix might focus all its attention on them and not look at him much. 

 

So it was better not to lay eggs; he only wanted his phoenix.

 

After a while, Su Muluo realized that Long Ling was still hugging him and immediately pushed him away, telling him to go take a bath.

 

At bedtime, Long Ling changed into the pajamas that the phoenix bought for him and tried to enter the room with the phoenix—only to be kicked out again.

 

“Go away,” Su Muluo said, shoving a quilt into his arms. “Go sleep on the sofa.”

 

“……”

 

Long Ling hugged the sofa, silently watching Su Muluo with a forlorn look.

 

Su Muluo remained unmoved and even tried to close the room door. Long Ling quickly stepped in front of the door and said, “But what if the phoenix acts like last night?”

 

He remembered how the phoenix was sweating profusely and had a dazed look in its eyes, almost like it was in a mating season… looking very tempting.

 

“I wouldn’t do that,” Su Muluo said. “I’m not sleepy tonight and only lost one feather.”

 

Feeling a bit confident, Su Muluo saw Long Ling reluctantly trying to say something and immediately said, “Go to bed quickly, or you’ll go bald!”

 

And then he closed the door.

 

—Though Su Muluo was quite forceful when kicking Long Ling out, after the lights were out in the room, he found himself unable to sleep again.

 

He lay in bed, staring at the ceiling in the dark. After a while, he pulled the quilt over his head.

 

The first half of the night was still very hard to bear, but in the early hours, a familiar drowsiness came over him. Su Muluo’s heart sank, sensing something was wrong, but he quickly fell into a deep sleep under the drowsiness.

 

As expected, he was soon awakened by a burning heat.

 

But this time it wasn’t as uncomfortable as before, at least not with that feeling of weakness and exhaustion. Su Muluo groggily opened his eyes and found himself lying in a man’s embrace.

 

“Phoenix,” Long Ling’s strong arms were wrapped around his waist, gently patting his back, and he asked softly, “Are you still uncomfortable? Do you want something cold to drink?”

 

“……” Su Muluo looked at Long Ling in a daze. “When did you come in?”

 

Long Ling noticed that his phoenix seemed to be feeling better compared to the previous night and honestly said, “An hour ago.”

 

Su Muluo: “?”

 

The dizziness vanished in an instant, and he immediately got up to try to push Long Ling out. However, Long Ling was quicker and wrapped his arms around Su Muluo’s waist, pressing him tightly into his embrace, not letting go.

 

Su Muluo was trapped in Long Ling’s embrace and poked him, saying, “Let go!”

 

“No, I won’t let go. The phoenix needs me,” Long Ling asserted, “It was after I arrived last night that the phoenix felt much better. This time I came early, so the phoenix isn’t as uncomfortable.”

 

Su Muluo was shocked and felt that this dragon had become even more shameless. Just as he was about to say something, Long Ling continued, “Since I became human, as long as the phoenix is with me, it has never experienced abnormal drowsiness. The phoenix can think about it; it’s true.”

 

After hearing this, Su Muluo was silent for a moment and said, “You’ve only been human for two days.”

 

Long Ling replied, “Two days can already prove a lot! Besides, after I hatched, the phoenix was affected by many anomalies because of me. Now that I’ve stabilized, as long as the phoenix stays by my side, it will stabilize too.”

 

He spoke with such reason and evidence that it seemed very convincing. For a moment, Su Muluo couldn’t think of a rebuttal.

 

Since Long Ling appeared in a stable human form beside him, he indeed had not felt drowsy as frequently as before. Moreover, the discomfort in the past two nights was also because his dragon wasn’t by his side… He had never spent a night apart from his dragon in the past eighteen hundred years.

 

There must indeed be some connection between them, but he didn’t expect it to be so profound that he couldn’t even be apart from his dragon for a while.

 

What kind of feelings did they have when they forged this connection back then?

 

Su Muluo fell silent, and Long Ling, keenly sensing something from his silence, lowered his head and gently nuzzled his soft hair, smiling, “So don’t drive me away, okay?”

 

Su Muluo looked at him for a while and said softly, “Then turn back.”

 

He still couldn’t quite accept being hugged to sleep by a man, feeling it was too intimate.

 

He didn’t want to let this dragon take more advantage!

 

Long Ling was still very pleased with this. He liked sticking close to his phoenix in any form, as it was all the same to him.

 

So he transformed into a small black dragon.

 

“Eek.”

 

The small black dragon wrapped around Su Muluo’s finger, its dark golden dragon eyes fixed on him unblinkingly.

 

Su Muluo patted its little head and said, “If you turn back while I’m asleep again, I’ll throw away your feather bracelet.”

 

The small black dragon: “!”

 

The small black dragon curled up into a little ball in his palm, looking very well-behaved.

 

Su Muluo’s eyebrows curved slightly as he pulled the blanket over himself and the little dragon, saying, “Let’s sleep.”

 

With his dragon by his side, he indeed slept very comfortably in the second half of the night. The next morning, Su Muluo was awakened by a clear bird call.

 

He opened his eyes and saw a paper crane on the bedside while the small black dragon was still curled up in his palm, hugging its tail and sleeping soundly.

 

To avoid waking his little dragon, Su Muluo did not get up. Instead, he reached out to retrieve the paper crane, unfolded it, and a line of text appeared in mid-air.

 

It was the biography of the former bird clan leader, Feng Hen. He had asked the old rabbit demon to investigate yesterday, and today he got the results.

 

However, after reading the investigation results, he frowned slightly.

 

Feng Hen’s life… could be described as very plain.

 

His talent was not outstanding, and he continued the leader position only because his father was the former leader of the bird clan. To stabilize his position, he had to marry the eldest elder’s daughter, and then left most clan affairs to the elder, rarely getting involved.

 

If it weren’t for meeting the human woman he adored, he might have stayed in his leader position and lived a plain life.

 

The boldest thing he did was to escape the bird clan with that human woman… and then he was caught and died inexplicably in an ice prison.

 

Such a person seemed to have no relation to the phoenix bloodline, especially since the old rabbit demon emphasized in the letter that Feng Hen’s strength was mediocre and not exceptional—if he truly had the phoenix bloodline, he would definitely not be so ordinary.

 

Su Muluo put away the paper crane and fell into deep thought.

 

Feng Hen’s parents had long passed away, and he himself had been dead for many years. Now, the only person related to him by blood was probably his illegitimate child.

 

If he truly had phoenix bloodline, then his child should also have it. With the phoenix clan now extinct, even a trace of bloodline would make the child a part of Su Muluo’s kin.

 

Perhaps he should go find Feng Xuan and inquire more about Feng Hen and that illegitimate child…

 

Just as this thought crossed Su Muluo’s mind, his phone suddenly rang. It was a call from Liu He.

 

Su Muluo answered the call and heard Liu He’s urgent voice on the other end, “Mr. Su, did you meet privately with the bird clan elder Feng Xuan?”

 

A bad premonition surfaced in Su Muluo’s mind. He replied, “Yes, he came to see me yesterday. What’s wrong?”

 

Liu He was silent for a second and then said, “Feng Xuan was killed last night, murdered in a hotel—”

 

“And you were the last stranger he met before his death.”

 

“……”

 

A few minutes later, the call ended. The small black dragon lazily opened its eyes, tilted its head, and let out a “woof” at Su Muluo.

 

The phoenix was making noise and was unhappy.

 

It needed comforting.

 

Su Muluo said, “I’m not comforting you.” Then he patted the dragon and said, “We need to get up. We have to go out later.”

 

The small black dragon: “Woof?” Where are we going?

 

Su Muluo: “The Department of Abnormal Affairs.”

 

The small black dragon: “?”

 

Why do we need to go there again!

 

The small black dragon still remembered how its phoenix almost didn’t want it last time they went there. It grumbled in dissatisfaction, tightly clutching the sheets and showing that it didn’t want to leave.

 

Seeing the little dragon throwing a tantrum, Su Muluo couldn’t help but smile slightly. Innocently, he said, “It seems like I’ve caused trouble again.”

 

“The bird clan elder from yesterday was murdered, and since I was the last person he interacted with, I’ve become a key suspect. So, I need to go there for questioning.”

 

The small black dragon: “……”

 

It knew that every time they went to the Department of Abnormal Affairs, nothing good ever came out of it!

 

Every single time!!

 

So, the little dragon sulkily transformed into a human, hugged his phoenix tightly, and refused to move.

---

T/N: Hello hello! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

 

Chapter 26: I’ll Support You

 

When Feng Xuan spoke these words, not only Su Muluo but even Long Ling fell silent.

 

After a few seconds of awkwardness, Feng Xuan said, “What’s wrong? Did I excite you too much?”

 

“No,” Su Muluo replied calmly, “You probably have the wrong person.”

 

Because he had used a spell, the surrounding customers couldn’t hear their conversation at all. Otherwise, with Feng Xuan’s recent outburst, there would be a lot of strange and curious looks coming their way.

 

Feng Xuan’s expression softened, and he said kindly, “It’s alright. You were just born at that time and probably don’t remember the events of the past. As long as you’re willing to return with me, I’ll explain everything to you slowly.”

 

Su Muluo thought it wasn’t necessary. When he was just born, this elder’s ancestors might still have been in their eggs, so there was no need for any more talk. He released his demonic aura directly.

 

Feng Xuan intended to say something more, but suddenly he felt a wave of demonic power crash over him. It was as if he were standing at the base of a tsunami, looking up at a towering, imposing pressure.

 

In an instant, Feng Xuan’s face changed drastically. His muscles tensed up to the limit, and he could even hear his bones clattering in fear. 

 

His soul seemed to be screaming, trembling uncontrollably, while he looked at the young man before him with disbelief, feeling an overwhelming fear rise from deep within.

 

The descendant of Feng Hen, who was just over twenty years old, couldn’t possibly possess such demonic power…

 

Moreover, the young man must be holding back, otherwise, he would have collapsed and been trembling on the ground by now…

 

Su Muluo didn’t want to put Feng Xuan in a difficult position. Seeing his changing expressions, he withdrew his demonic aura and casually poured him a cup of coffee.

 

Feng Xuan seemed to have walked through the gates of death. After his tensed muscles suddenly relaxed, he felt extreme weakness and exhaustion. His hand holding the coffee was trembling, and only after finishing the cup did he gradually calm down.

 

It was only then that he realized how foolish his actions had been.

 

As a bird tribe elder with nearly five hundred years of demonic power, he was considered an upper-level figure in the demon realm. Until now, no demon had ever exerted such pressure on him—such confidence was shattered today.

 

The aura of the young man before him was terrifyingly powerful. His demonic power must have exceeded five hundred years… Could it be six hundred years, or seven hundred years?

 

… No, it might even be a thousand years.

 

Cold sweat silently soaked through Feng Xuan’s clothes. Even though the shop had heating, he felt a chill.

 

In the demon realm today, there were only three beings with over a thousand years of power, who had long been hidden from the world. If this young man were one of those thousand-year-old demons, then he had mistakenly thought of him as a private descendant of the bird tribe, hoping to have him return to revitalize the bird tribe…

 

For a moment, Feng Xuan suddenly wanted to dig a hole and bury himself.

 

As the coffee cup reached the bottom, the bird tribe elder remained silent. Su Muluo lightly tapped the table and said, “I’d like to ask you a question.”

 

“!” Feng Xuan immediately snapped back to reality and said, “Please go ahead.”

 

Su Muluo asked, “Why did you think I was a private descendant of the bird tribe?”

 

“…” Feng Xuan fell silent for a few seconds and awkwardly said, “I have known Feng Hen for many years and can sense the aura of those related to him by blood. That day at the Bureau of Extraordinary Beings, I detected a similar aura on you.”

 

Su Muluo didn’t show it on his face but was slightly surprised inside. He didn’t know Feng Hen and rarely interacted with the bird tribe. Why would their auras be similar?

 

Could it be… Feng Hen has some bloodline of their Phoenix clan?

 

This doubt flashed through his mind but was not voiced. Instead, he said calmly, “You probably made a mistake. I’ve never met Feng Hen.”

 

Feng Xuan said, “Yes, it was indeed my mistake. I apologize for disturbing you.”

 

Only those with the same bloodline would have similar auras. As far as he knew, Feng Hen had no connection with those three thousand-year-old demons… If there had been a connection, the former clan leader wouldn’t have died in the ice prison for no reason.

 

Since the misunderstanding was cleared up, Feng Xuan wanted to leave quickly. However, just before he left, Su Muluo remembered something and asked, “Even if you wanted to investigate my address, why did you send people to attack me?”

 

Feng Xuan was stunned and said, “What?”

 

Su Muluo replied, “A few days ago, I was attacked by your people from the bird tribe.”

 

“……Impossible!” Feng Xuan exclaimed in shock, “I only instructed my people to find you and told them to stay in the shadows. They were not supposed to act against you!”

 

At that time, he still thought of this person as the descendant of Feng Hen, the future leader of the bird tribe. How could he send people to attack him?

 

Feng Xuan’s response was unexpected for Su Muluo, who fell into deep thought. At this moment, Long Ling snickered and said, “Is that so?”

 

The cold laugh made Feng Xuan shiver. He quickly asked, “Could you describe what those bird tribe people looked like? Any specific features?”

 

Su Muluo thought for a few seconds and said, “They were wearing black hoodies and had their hoods up, so I couldn’t see their faces. That’s all.”

 

Feng Xuan nodded and said, “Please wait a few days. I will investigate immediately. Once I find out, I will definitely come back and give you an explanation!”

 

After saying this, he saw Su Muluo nodding without any objections. He felt like he had been granted amnesty and left in a hurry.

 

After Feng Xuan left, Su Muluo glanced at Long Ling and said, “You don’t always have to be so fierce with people.”

 

This dragon had been like this right after hatching, extremely fierce, even spitting fireballs at the Bureau of Extraordinary Beings.

 

Long Ling looked innocent and said, “I wasn’t fierce with them. It was they who had other intentions towards my Phoenix.” After saying this, he snuggled up to Su Muluo and added, “I really like Phoenix.”

 

Seeing him taking advantage of him again, Su Muluo immediately put on a stern face and said, “I don’t like you.”

 

On the first day, this dragon had seen him feeling a bit unaccustomed and had restrained himself. But it wasn’t long before the dragon’s true nature was revealed, frequently coming over to take advantage of him.

 

It was utterly annoying.

 

Long Ling looked at Su Muluo’s sullen face and thought his Phoenix was both soft and cute, and he really wanted to take a bite.

 

But now the Phoenix would definitely not let him take a bite. Long Ling thought for a moment and changed the subject, “Did Phoenix know these people before?”

 

Su Muluo shook his head. “I don’t know him.”

 

Long Ling asked, “Then why does Feng Hen’s aura resemble that of a Phoenix?” He squinted slightly and added, “Could it be that the Phoenix had a little birdling outside without me knowing?”

 

Su Muluo was confused. “?”

 

He gave Long Ling a smack on the head and said, “You’re the one who would have a little birdling!”

 

Long Ling laughed and took Su Muluo’s wrist, rubbing his fingertips against it gently. He asked, “So, does he have Phoenix blood?”

 

“Possibly,” Su Muluo said, “so I want to investigate it.”

 

Feng Hen was the former clan leader of the bird tribe and died in the ice prison due to defection. Although it was decades ago, decades are not long for demons, and an investigation could still be conducted.

 

However, there hadn’t been any reports of a demon with Phoenix bloodline before, or it would have caused a stir. To be cautious, Su Muluo decided to have someone look into it.

 

He took out a piece of paper, wrote a few lines on it, and folded it into a paper crane. He let it flutter gently into the air.

 

The paper crane flew magically into the sky, wobbling slightly as it moved forward before vanishing from sight.

 

Long Ling watched the paper crane and said, “The Phoenix is sending love letters to others right in front of me.”

 

Su Muluo ignored him. Just then, another customer ordered a coffee, so he pushed the clingy dragon away and went to prepare it.

 

In the evening, when the coffee shop closed, Su Muluo stepped outside and was immediately hit by the cold wind.

 

It’s so cold, why is it so cold today?

 

As he thought about this, he suddenly felt a coat on his shoulders. He looked up to see Long Ling taking off his outerwear and draping it over him, then closing his fingers around Su Muluo’s hand and saying, “Phoenix is dressed too lightly; you’ll catch a cold.”

 

The warmth of the man’s palm spread slowly from their touching skin. Su Muluo was momentarily stunned, suddenly recalling how in the Mirror of Origin, his dragon had also removed his coat and held the silver-haired Phoenix’s hand…

 

Then he heard Long Ling’s next words: “Otherwise, Phoenix could just snuggle into my arms; they’re warm too.”

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

He expressionlessly snatched the dragon’s coat away and continued walking alone.

 

Long Ling quickly caught up and took Su Muluo’s hand. Su Muluo initially tried to shake him off, but the warmth of Long Ling’s hand was very comforting. He paused for a second, symbolically struggled, and then stopped resisting.

 

Long Ling happily held Su Muluo’s slender fingers and asked, “When will the Phoenix make me a feather bracelet?”

 

When he was a little black dragon, the Phoenix had promised him a feather bracelet, and he remembered it well.

 

Su Muluo thought for a moment and said, “Tonight.”

 

Long Ling’s eyes lit up. “Phoenix is the best!”

 

He tried to nuzzle closer to Su Muluo, but Su Muluo, always wary, managed to avoid him.

 

Back at the rental apartment, Su Muluo appreciated the warmth of the room, while Long Ling quickly went into the bedroom and took out the feathers hidden under the pillow.

 

He had been keeping the Phoenix’s feathers he cherished under the pillow, like hidden treasures, and now there were four of them.

 

However, making a bracelet didn’t require so many feathers. Su Muluo let Long Ling choose, and Long Ling, after some deliberation, picked the most beautiful one.

 

Su Muluo asked, “Can you return the other three to me?”

 

Long Ling immediately took the other three feathers and ran away.

 

Su Muluo: Tsk.

 

Taking his feathers and taking advantage of him, how rude.

 

What use is this dragon?

 

Even though he thought this casually, he still carefully made the feather bracelet for his dragon.

 

When they went to the mall before, Su Muluo had specifically bought some beautiful weaving threads. With the feathers being long, he connected the feathers end to end with the weaving thread, adding two polished jade beads as embellishments. Since the thread was long, it could wrap around the wrist several times, and when worn, the feathers appeared white, soft, and with a faint, beautiful luster.

 

In no time, the feather bracelet was finished. Long Ling clearly loved it and refused to take it off once he put it on.

 

He happily walked around Su Muluo, suddenly hugging him. “I like Phoenix the most!”

 

Su Muluo remained calm and said, “I don’t like you.”

 

Long Ling buried his head into Su Muluo’s shoulder, rubbing against him. “Phoenix wouldn’t dislike me. Phoenix even made me a bracelet.” His smile grew, and he added, “This is the first gift Phoenix has given me.”

 

Su Muluo only realized this upon hearing him. In the past eighteen hundred years, his dragon had been in the egg, and even after becoming a little black dragon, he couldn’t give any gifts. So this feather bracelet was indeed the first gift he had given his dragon.

 

Long Ling looked at the feather bracelet in his hand, finding it beautiful, as pretty as his phoenix, and said happily, “I want to give the phoenix a gift too.”

 

Su Muluo tilted his head and asked, “What are you going to give?”

 

Long Ling thought for a moment and said, “It seems like people here usually give rings when they’re courting someone… Does the phoenix like those sparkling rings?”

 

Su Muluo asked, “You mean diamond rings?”

 

Long Ling nodded and looked at his phoenix with anticipation. “If the phoenix likes them, I’ll give you a diamond ring.” That way, he could also use the opportunity to court his phoenix!

 

Su Muluo had already seen through his little scheme, and with a slight smile, he said, “Although I’m not particularly fond of them, I’m curious about one thing.”

 

Long Ling felt a bit disappointed when he heard Su Muluo didn’t like diamond rings. “What does the phoenix want to ask?”

 

Su Muluo asked, “Do you have money?”

 

“…”

 

Long Ling fell silent.

 

Su Muluo continued, “A diamond ring is quite expensive, it costs several hundred thousand.”

 

Long Ling remained silent.

 

Su Muluo added, “When I first came to the human city, I saved up my first bit of money by selling feathers. It seems like you can’t even sell feathers.”

 

Long Ling: “…………”

 

Long Ling remained silent for a long time, seemingly struggling to come to terms with the fact that he had no money at all. After a while, he suddenly said with a sigh, “I can sell scales.”

 

His tone was filled with helplessness, sadness, and resentment towards this money-driven world.

 

Su Muluo couldn’t help but laugh, gently patting his head and saying with affection, “Be good, let me take care of you.”

---

T/N: Hello hello! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

 

Chapter 25: Revitalizing the Bird Clan!

 

Su Muluo twirled the little black dragon around his finger like a keychain, swinging it back and forth.

 

The little black dragon, feeling neglected as his phoenix was busy picking out clothes, let out an unhappy “squeak.”

 

Su Muluo continued to ignore him.

 

The little black dragon began to wriggle and twist.

 

After a while, the little black dragon managed to untangle itself and slipped off Su Muluo’s finger with a swift “whoosh”—only to be caught immediately by Su Muluo.

 

In a quiet corner of the mall, Su Muluo poked the little dragon in his palm and asked, “Will you take advantage of me again next time?”

 

The little black dragon, hugging a feather, rubbed its soft little horns against Su Muluo’s fingers, making pitiful sounds.

 

No, I won’t. The phoenix is the best.

 

Su Muluo rubbed its little horns and laughed, “Always acting cute.”

 

Then he tried to take his feather back.

 

The little black dragon hugged it tightly.

 

Su Muluo: “?”

 

He tugged at the feather, but it wouldn’t budge. He glared at the little black dragon.

 

The little black dragon: “Squeak.”

 

I want it!

 

This phoenix feather was even more beautiful than the previous ones, more delicate and soft, carrying a fragrant scent filled with the phoenix’s essence.

 

Really liked it.

 

The little black dragon looked at Su Muluo expectantly, its dark golden dragon eyes sparkling, tail swishing back and forth.

 

After a few seconds of eye contact, Su Muluo let go.

 

Forget it, since his dragon liked it, he could have it.

 

Though he felt a bit heartbroken.

 

The little black dragon cheered: “Yippee!”

 

It then transformed into human form, smiling with curved eyebrows, and rubbed its face against Su Muluo’s cheek, “The phoenix is so nice, I love the phoenix the most.”

 

The movement was swift, and before Su Muluo could react or dodge, it was done.

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

He expressionlessly patted Long Ling.

 

Long Ling happily put the feather away. Even if he got hit, it was gentle. Besides, the phoenix gave him a beautiful feather, which made the black dragon very happy, even wanting to hug and kiss the phoenix.

 

However, kissing was definitely impossible. If he dared to kiss here, the phoenix would explode and beat him up, then throw him out.

 

Thinking about it felt tragic.

 

The two of them continued shopping around the mall, with Su Muluo buying several outfits for Long Ling, along with some daily necessities.

 

By noon, they passed by a hotpot restaurant. Su Muluo stopped immediately, enticed by the aroma wafting out.

 

Long Ling asked, “Does the phoenix want to eat hotpot?”

 

Su Muluo: “Yes.”

 

Although he had made it at home before, it was different from the restaurant, and he was looking forward to the taste.

 

Long Ling had no objections and entered the hotpot restaurant with his phoenix. Su Muluo ordered a mandarin duck pot, remembering that Long Ling, when he was still a little black dragon, couldn’t handle spicy food, so he turned the clear soup pot towards him.

 

Unexpectedly, Long Ling pouted, “I don’t want to eat clear soup.”

 

He then moved from across the table to sit beside Su Muluo.

 

Su Muluo: “? Sit back.”

 

Long Ling didn’t move, “I want to eat spicy food too.”

 

“I can turn the spicy pot to your side,” Su Muluo pushed him, “Don’t sit next to me.” And so close!

 

“No,” Long Ling said, looking like he was doing it for Su Muluo’s sake, “Phoenix also wants to eat spicy food, if I turn it to my side, it won’t be convenient for you to reach.”

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

The table isn’t that big, you can easily reach it!

 

He felt this dragon just wanted to take advantage of him. But he was sitting against the wall, and the only way out was for Long Ling to move, which he wouldn’t… for now, he couldn’t change seats.

 

Long Ling happily held Su Muluo’s hand, Su Muluo glanced at him and stayed silent.

 

The dishes were quickly served, the table filled with beef, tripe, duck intestine, enoki mushrooms, and various meats and vegetables. Long Ling dipped a piece of beef in the spicy pot and placed it in Su Muluo’s bowl.

 

“For the phoenix.”

 

Su Muluo took a bite.

 

The next second, he exclaimed, “So spicy!”

 

This hotpot restaurant was a Chongqing hotpot place, and Su Muluo had chosen medium spicy for the broth, thinking he could handle it. But he was instantly overwhelmed by the spiciness.

 

Long Ling immediately handed him the iced lemon water from the table. Su Muluo took a big gulp, finally feeling a bit relieved.

 

Though extremely spicy, the hotpot was delicious, making people want to keep eating. Su Muluo sipped the lemon water in small gulps, watching Long Ling eat a piece of tripe he had just cooked in the spicy broth.

 

He stopped, wanting to see Long Ling’s reaction to the spiciness.

 

But Long Ling’s expression didn’t change at all. He didn’t seem to feel the spiciness and even started cooking some beef for Su Muluo.

 

Su Muluo: “?”

 

Shocked, he asked, “Aren’t you feeling the heat?”

 

Long Ling looked at him, “Not at all. Is this really spicy?”

 

Su Muluo: “Didn’t you used to not be able to eat spicy food?”

 

Long Ling dipped the cooked beef in the clear broth and placed it in Su Muluo’s bowl, “But I can now.”

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

His plan to see the dragon cry from spiciness fell through. Silently, he ate the piece of beef.

 

By the end of the meal, Su Muluo’s lips were red and slightly swollen from the spiciness. Long Ling frequently turned to look at him.

 

Su Muluo, puzzled, asked, “Why are you staring at me?”

 

A hint of amusement flickered in Long Ling’s eyes, “The phoenix’s lips are red, like they’ve been kissed.”

 

Su Muluo: “?”

 

Long Ling: “I want to kiss.”

 

Su Muluo: “???”

 

Su Muluo snatched the beef from Long Ling’s bowl.

 

After a moment of silence.

 

This was only the second day he’d been with Long Ling. Although he found Long Ling awkward the first day, by the second day, everything felt natural.

 

It must be because this dragon was shameless and always took advantage of him!

 

Thinking this, he poked Long Ling.

 

Long Ling obediently let him poke, watching his phoenix, a gentle smile tugging at his lips.

 

After lunch, they returned to their rented apartment.

 

“Maybe we need to rent a new place,” Su Muluo said as they entered, “There’s only one bedroom here, which isn’t very convenient.”

 

Long Ling didn’t like the sound of that, “Isn’t one bedroom enough?”

 

Su Muluo glanced at him, “Oh, so you like sleeping on the sofa.”

 

Long Ling: “…”

 

That’s not what he meant!

 

He wanted to sleep with the phoenix!

 

Long Ling felt a bit glum. Su Muluo laughed, “Come work with me this afternoon.”

 

He had closed the coffee shop yesterday, and if he didn’t open it this afternoon, they wouldn’t have any income for two days.

 

Long Ling agreed, “Then the phoenix must stay with me all the time. I need to guard the phoenix.”

 

Su Muluo: “I don’t need you to guard me; nothing will happen to me.”

 

Long Ling insisted, “No, what if the phoenix suddenly gets sleepy?”

 

Su Muluo fell silent.

 

Indeed, he had forgotten about that.

 

However, he had been less sleepy the past few days, only feeling sleepy at night now. Maybe in a few more days, this problem would go away.

 

In the afternoon, Su Muluo and Long Ling went to the coffee shop. When they arrived, they saw a few cats sitting obediently at the employee lounge door, neither meowing nor wandering.

 

A boy came out of the lounge, holding a bag of trash filled with the cat food cans from the day before. He intended to take out the trash, but upon seeing Su Muluo, he greeted, “Good afternoon.”

 

Then his gaze shifted to the man in black beside Su Muluo.

 

Qiansui: “…”

 

In the next instant, Qiansui transformed into an orange cat and dashed into the lounge corner with a “whoosh.”

 

Su Muluo looked at Long Ling, “Did you scare him?”

 

Long Ling, looking innocent, “How could I?”

 

Su Muluo knew that while Long Ling had never liked Qiansui, he wouldn’t deliberately make things difficult for him. After examining Long Ling for a few seconds, he realized it was Long Ling’s strong demon aura that had frightened Qiansui.

 

“Conceal your aura; it’s too conspicuous.”

 

He remembered that when he first became human, he also had trouble controlling his aura, often scaring the little demons around him and attracting big demons with ill intentions. Only after learning to fully conceal his aura did he avoid unnecessary trouble.

 

Long Ling tilted his head, and a few seconds later, Su Muluo felt his aura completely retract, no longer detectable.

 

Qiansui slowly emerged from the lounge, “meowing” softly, and led the other cats back inside.

 

After a while, the coffee shop opened. The customers who came in were very surprised to find that the shop had a new employee. He was cold and handsome, but his gaze was extremely gentle when he looked at the young shop owner.

 

At two in the afternoon, a young man with earrings walked into the coffee shop. As soon as he entered, he said, “Boss! I took my cat, Doumi, to get vaccinated today. It was so well-behaved. Let me show you some photos!”

 

He had adopted the black cat from the shop last time, named it Doumi, and couldn’t wait to share pictures of it with Su Muluo. However, before he could take out his phone, he felt a cold, sharp gaze fall on him. He looked up and saw a handsome man in black standing beside Su Muluo, looking at him indifferently.

 

“…”

 

The young man silently put his phone away and said, “A special coffee, please.”

 

Su Muluo replied gently, “Sure.”

 

After the young man found a seat, Su Muluo turned to Long Ling and said, “Why are you being so harsh to the customers?”

 

Long Ling lazily rested his chin on Su Muluo’s shoulder and said, “He’s too close with Phoenix.”

 

Su Muluo asked, “How do you see that?”

 

“I don’t care. He’s too close,” Long Ling said. “Phoenix can only be close to me, not to others.”

 

Su Muluo met his gaze and didn’t notice the content of his words because he suddenly realized how close the dragon was to him. He immediately tried to push him away.

 

—But Long Ling grabbed his wrist, his arm naturally wrapping around Su Muluo’s waist, half-embracing him.

 

Su Muluo: “?!”

 

His reaction was swift. He quickly cast a spell to create an illusion so that other customers would still see them as they were before, without anything unusual.

 

Then he said, “Let go!”

 

“No,” Long Ling’s eyes narrowed with satisfaction as he nuzzled Phoenix’s soft black hair. “Phoenix is soft. I like holding Phoenix.”

 

Su Muluo: “???”

 

How did it escalate to this level so quickly?

 

This was too much!

 

So he said very coldly, “If you don’t let go, I’ll tie you up.”

 

Long Ling paused slightly.

 

Su Muluo continued, “I’ll also take away the feathers you hide under the pillow.”

 

Long Ling: “!”

 

Long Ling immediately and obediently let go, saying, “Phoenix is the best.”

 

Su Muluo sneered and ignored him.

 

After a while, the young man finished his coffee and left. Shortly after he left, a man came in.

 

Su Muluo’s gaze fell on him, and he raised his eyebrows slightly.

 

He had seen this person before at the Bureau of the Extraordinary. It was Feng Xuan, an elder of the bird clan.

 

A few days ago, he had been attacked by the bird clan. Although the attack wasn’t hostile, more like a test, now it might not just be a test.

 

Long Ling also recognized Feng Xuan and said, “Phoenix, you don’t have to deal with him. I’ll handle it.”

 

Su Muluo felt that Long Ling’s “handling” might mean throwing the other person out without a word. But instead of directly driving Feng Xuan away, he wanted to know why the other person had come, so he said, “No rush, let me ask him first.”

 

As soon as Feng Xuan stepped into the coffee shop, he sensed something was wrong.

 

As an elder of the bird clan for many years, with profound strength and many experiences, he had a keen intuition for danger.

 

Seeing the young shop owner and the man beside him, alarm bells rang in his heart, and he immediately wanted to leave.

 

Although these two had no demonic aura, they made him feel a sense of fear, especially the man in black, who seemed like a beast emerging from the depths of hell, ready to devour people in an instant.

 

“…”

 

Cold sweat appeared on Feng Xuan’s forehead, but he didn’t leave. Instead, he slowly walked to the counter.

 

Su Muluo said, “Is there something you need, Elder Feng?”

 

He got straight to the point, his tone calm, but it startled Feng Xuan again.

 

At least there was no hostility in his words. This made Feng Xuan secretly relieved, feeling that this beautiful young man was approachable. So he directly said, “I’m here to find someone.”

 

After seeing this young man at the Bureau of the Extraordinary, he had remembered his appearance and released the bird clan’s scouts in Lincheng. Within a few days, he found this coffee shop and immediately came over.

 

Su Muluo said, “There shouldn’t be anyone you know here.”

 

“There is,” Feng Xuan stared at him and said, “I’m looking for you.”

 

Su Muluo raised his eyebrows slightly. For a moment, he even thought Feng Xuan had recognized his identity as Phoenix, but he quickly denied it.

 

In the past eighteen hundred years, only his dragon and the old rabbit demon knew his identity. The old rabbit demon would never betray him, and with Feng Xuan’s strength, he couldn’t possibly see through his true form.

 

So Feng Xuan couldn’t be looking for him because he’s Phoenix. There must be another reason.

 

Long Ling, hearing this, also coldly stared at Feng Xuan. For a moment, Feng Xuan felt like the Grim Reaper’s scythe was hanging over his neck, cold sweat soaking his clothes, but he still stood straight, maintaining his composure.

 

“Fifty years ago, Feng Hen, the bird clan leader, ascended to stabilize his position. He married the daughter of the great elder,” Feng Xuan said. “Later, Feng Hen fell in love with a human woman and ran away, abandoning the bird clan… The great elder was furious and brought Feng Hen back, imprisoning him in the ice prison.”

 

Su Muluo said, “Wait, what does this have to do with you looking for me?”

 

Feng Xuan said, “You’ll know soon.”

 

Then he paused and continued, “A few days later, Feng Hen was found dead in the ice prison, causing a shock in the bird clan. Some believed the great elder killed Feng Hen, while others thought Feng Hen committed suicide out of guilt. Since that day, the bird clan split into two factions, constantly fighting.”

 

Long Ling lazily held Su Muluo’s hand, lightly pinching his fingers. Su Muluo tried to pull his hand back but was held tightly, and he slapped Long Ling in anger.

 

However, he remained calm and said, “I’m not from the bird clan. Telling me this is useless.”

 

Feng Xuan shook his head and continued, “Because of years of conflict, the bird clan has no leader and our status in the demon world has declined, unlike before. The wolf clan has coveted us for many years. If this continues, the bird clan might soon be conquered… So, at this time, someone must step up, take over the position of clan leader, and end this chaos.”

 

Su Muluo thought he was going to continue talking about the bird clan’s future development. He was ready to patiently listen, but then he saw Feng Xuan looking at him expectantly, slapping the table excitedly, and saying:

 

“And you are the one I’ve been searching for years—

 

“You are Feng Hen’s illegitimate child from twenty years ago, the only bloodline of the former clan leader, the most suitable heir for the bird clan, and our only hope!”

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

What?

---

T/N: Hello hello! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

 

Chapter 24: Arrogance

 

“Is the phoenix in heat?”

 

“…”

 

Su Muluo, who was in a daze, heard this and his scattered thoughts started to gather. His head didn’t feel as foggy anymore. 

 

In short, he was woken up by anger.

 

He then raised his hand and gave Long Ling a smack on the head.

 

Long Ling: “?”

 

He didn’t expect his phoenix to react this way, showing a bit of surprise on his face, which was soon followed by another smack from Su Muluo.

 

Even though his phoenix’s hits were light, Long Ling moved closer, gently holding Su Muluo’s wrist, and said, “Phoenix, you’re awake? How are you feeling? Any better?”

 

Su Muluo hugged the blanket, feeling slightly relieved from the unbearable heat but still somewhat uncomfortable, not wanting to speak much. 

 

However, he remembered the nonsense this dragon just spouted and weakly retorted, “You’re the one in heat… I don’t have a heat period.”

 

Long Ling remained silent, thinking that Su Muluo had previously claimed not to have a molting period either, but it turned out he did. 

 

Of course, he wouldn’t say such a thing out loud, fearing he might get hit again. Instead, he gently soothed, “Alright, no heat period then. If Phoenix says no, then there’s none. I must have been mistaken.”

 

For now, there’s none… But will there really never be?

 

Long Ling still had a bit of expectation in his heart. Su Muluo, hearing this, snorted softly and buried his face into the pillow.

 

Even though his phoenix was awake, he still looked listless. Seeing this, Long Ling poured him a cup of warm water, saying, “Have some water, it’ll help a bit.”

 

Su Muluo didn’t want to move and said, “I want something cold.”

 

Long Ling refused, “No, it’s cold weather now, drinking cold water could make you sick.”

 

“I won’t get sick,” Su Muluo mumbled, feeling the persistent heat and dizziness. “I just want something cold.”

 

His voice, soft due to discomfort, sounded like he was whining. Long Ling felt a string in his heart being lightly plucked, making him want to hug his phoenix and kiss him.

 

But since his phoenix was feeling unwell, he restrained himself, applying slight force with his fingertips to coat the cup with a thin layer of frost.

 

“Just a bit cold,” Long Ling brought the cup to Su Muluo’s lips. “Can’t drink too cold.”

 

Su Muluo glanced at the cup, then at him, his eyes brightening. “What kind of dragon are you?”

 

Long Ling replied, “A black dragon.”

 

Honestly, he wasn’t very clear about his own identity or what a black dragon represented among the dragon tribe.

 

Su Muluo gave a simple “oh” and didn’t ask further, taking the cup of cold water and drinking it in one go. He squinted his eyes in delight. “So good.”

 

The slightly cold liquid alleviated some of the heat, and without that unbearable warmth, he felt a bit better. He finished the entire cup of cold water and snuggled back into the blanket.

 

Long Ling thought his phoenix now resembled a well-fed kitten, all soft and cuddly, enjoying the comfort of the bed.

 

If only he could snuggle into my arms.

 

This thought crossed his mind, but he didn’t show it. Instead, he asked, “Feeling better now?”

 

Su Muluo nodded.

 

Long Ling touched his forehead, finding it not as hot as before, and asked, “If it’s not a heat period, could it be a fever?”

 

“I’m not in heat,” Su Muluo refuted again, then said, “And I don’t get fevers.”

 

After all, as a phoenix, he wouldn’t get sick easily. 

 

But this time was indeed strange. From initially feeling sleepy and shedding feathers to now being feverish in the middle of the night… It was worrying no matter how you looked at it.

 

Su Muluo furrowed his brows slightly and glanced at Long Ling.

 

Long Ling, understanding what he wanted to say, took the blame naturally, “Maybe it’s related to me.”

 

“I think so too,” Su Muluo said, “I started feeling strange when you were about to transform.”

 

He sounded a bit aggrieved but didn’t really mean to blame him, just stating a fact.

 

Long Ling thought for a moment and said, “I should have hatched earlier, or before the phoenix, so that the phoenix wouldn’t have to suffer.”

 

Clearly, there was some connection between them. Maybe their souls were tied together, so when he underwent a change, his phoenix would be affected too.

 

If he had hatched earlier than the phoenix, the situation might have reversed, and he would have been the one affected, sparing his phoenix the discomfort.

 

Su Muluo shook his head after hearing this, “We only discovered this today; we didn’t know before. And also…”

 

And also, he liked this bond, like an unbreakable tie binding him to his dragon.

 

He didn’t say the latter part, just keeping it as a small thought in his heart. Long Ling stared at him for a few seconds, seeing his phoenix not continue, and asked, “And also what?”

 

Su Muluo glanced at him, pulled the blanket over his head.

 

Long Ling shook the blanket, “And also what? Phoenix hasn’t finished talking.”

 

The blanket shook, and Su Muluo slowly turned his back to him.

 

Long Ling’s dark golden eyes showed a hint of amusement. After a few seconds, he said, “Phoenix, I can’t sleep.”

 

Su Muluo stayed silent.

 

Long Ling continued, “The sofa is hard.”

 

Su Muluo stayed silent.

 

Long Ling added, “It’s cold outside.”

 

Su Muluo stayed silent.

 

After a pause, Long Ling pitifully said, “Phoenix is so mean, coaxing Phoenix just now, but now Phoenix doesn’t want me anymore.”

 

“…”

 

Su Muluo poked his head out of the blanket, revealing only his eyes, “You just said you weren’t afraid of the cold.”

 

Long Ling was slightly choked by this. The next second, he decisively transformed into a small black dragon.

 

The little black dragon nestled by the pillow, raising its head and looking pitifully at his phoenix.

 

Su Muluo stayed silent.

 

Then he pulled the blanket open a bit.

 

The little black dragon happily made a soft sound and burrowed into the blanket, curling up next to his phoenix.

 

Su Muluo looked at the soft little dragon and gently poked it.

 

The little black dragon immediately hugged his finger, rubbing its small horns against it.

 

Su Muluo’s lips curled up slightly. The discomfort of sleeping alone finally disappeared. He closed his eyes and fell asleep next to his dragon.

 

The next morning, Su Muluo took Long Ling shopping, buying clothes.

 

The mall was bustling with people everywhere. Standing together, Su Muluo and Long Ling’s looks attracted quite a bit of attention.

 

This made Long Ling very dissatisfied, “If I had known, we should have worn masks before going out.”

 

Su Muluo thought for a moment, “That would only draw more attention.”

 

“Doesn’t matter,” Long Ling said, “At least this way, they wouldn’t see Phoenix’s face. Phoenix is so good-looking, I don’t want them to see.”

 

This was his first time accompanying his phoenix out in human form. Without the perspective of a small dragon, he could now clearly feel the gazes directed at his phoenix.

 

He didn’t like those admiring gazes, feeling like the treasure he wanted to hide was exposed to the daylight, attracting greedy looks… This stirred his possessiveness and made him very unhappy. He just wanted to take his phoenix back home, hide him in a place only he knew, and stroke his feathers.

 

Su Muluo saw through his thoughts instantly, “You wish. I’m not letting you stroke my feathers.”

 

Then he walked ahead quickly.

 

The mall was large, and they strolled slowly. A few minutes later, Su Muluo spotted a piece of clothing, “Do you like it?”

 

Long Ling glanced at it, “If Phoenix likes it, I like it.”

 

Su Muluo asked the sales clerk to bring over the clothing and compared it against Long Ling.

 

“Hmm, it seems nice,” Su Muluo said, “Do you want to try it on?”

 

Long Ling nodded, “How do I try it on?”

 

“There’s a fitting room over there. You just change into this and come out for me to see,” Su Muluo explained.

 

Long Ling made a sound of acknowledgment but didn’t move.

 

Su Muluo: “What’s wrong?”

 

Long Ling: “I don’t know how.”

 

Su Muluo: “?”

 

“I don’t know how to wear such clothes,” Long Ling said matter-of-factly, “The clothes I’m wearing now are transformed from my scales, so I’ve never worn human clothes before.”

 

Su Muluo paused for a moment, “You don’t expect me to help you dress, do you?”

 

Long Ling looked innocent, “But if Phoenix doesn’t teach me, I really don’t know how to wear them.”

 

This argument seemed quite reasonable and convincing. Su Muluo looked at Long Ling, whose face clearly said, “I’m not lying, I’m telling the truth, I’m very obedient,” and remained silent for a few seconds.

 

Then he clicked his tongue, turned around, and headed for the fitting room.

 

Long Ling obediently followed him, so the sales clerk watched in astonishment as the two men entered the same fitting room.

 

Sales clerk: “…”

 

She lowered her head and started posting on social media.

 

In the dressing room, Su Muluo bowed his head as he buttoned up Long Ling’s shirt. 

 

The space was small, just enough to fit one adult man. If there were two people, it would be cramped—so even though Su Muluo tried to keep his distance, he was still very close to Long Ling. 

 

Too close, he could even smell Long Ling’s scent… It was familiar, comforting, and pleasant to him. 

 

Su Muluo stayed silent, and Long Ling also did not speak. When Su Muluo finished fastening the second to last button and looked up, he found Long Ling watching him intently, his dark golden eyes unblinking. 

 

Before they went out, Long Ling had concealed his eyes to look like ordinary black ones. But here, he reverted to his original eye color. 

 

Those dark golden eyes were profoundly deep, the eyes of a dragon. Cold as snowy mountains when distant, yet now they were a vast, gentle ocean, quietly and intently focused on Su Muluo, as if he was the only person in the world. 

 

Su Muluo met Long Ling’s gaze for a few seconds before abruptly looking away, saying, “All done.” 

 

He tried to step back immediately but forgot about the cramped space and almost bumped into the door behind him— 

 

Long Ling swiftly raised his hand, his long, strong fingers pressing against the back of Su Muluo’s head, saying, “Be careful.” 

 

Now they were even closer. Su Muluo suddenly realized that his little black dragon, usually small and delicate, was taller than him by half a head when in human form. At this moment, with his hand protecting the back of his head, Long Ling almost enveloped him completely in his embrace. 

 

“…”

 

Without hesitation, Su Muluo opened the dressing room door and walked out. 

 

Long Ling watched his retreating figure without looking back, a slight smile on his lips, thinking that his phoenix had just been shy. 

 

And he had let him hold him. 

 

So, does that mean he could hold his phoenix in bed tonight? 

 

The little black dragon’s thoughts were very pleasant as he followed Su Muluo’s steps. 

 

However, despite his beautiful thoughts, reality was harsh. Long Ling soon realized that his excuse of not knowing how to dress didn’t work because his phoenix didn’t give him a chance to try on clothes. 

 

“These few, let’s buy them all.”

 

Long Ling watched as Su Muluo efficiently picked out several pieces of clothing, trying to remind him, “I haven’t tried them on yet.”

 

Su Muluo replied, “No need to try.”

 

Long Ling said, “But if I don’t try them on, what if they don’t fit?”

 

Su Muluo gave him a glance, his tone indifferent, “Then we’ll buy more. I have money.”

 

Long Ling: “…”

 

The penniless black dragon silently followed the wealthy phoenix without a word. 

 

After leaving that store, Su Muluo planned to continue looking in another store. But after just a few steps, a feather floated down from him. 

 

Su Muluo: “?”

 

Another one fell???

 

Long Ling quickly caught the feather. 

 

Su Muluo looked at him and said, “Give it to me.”

 

Long Ling curved his lips, saying, “No, phoenix feathers are so soft, I want it.”

 

Su Muluo: “I already gave you three feathers to make a bracelet last time, you can’t have this one.”

 

Even fallen feathers were precious to him. If it weren’t for the fact that this was his dragon, he wouldn’t give even one. Giving three at once was already very generous! No more!

 

After thinking for a moment, Long Ling said, “Then let me kiss you once and I’ll give it to you.”

 

Su Muluo: “?”

 

Long Ling’s eyes sparkled as he said, “Just one kiss, a small one.”

 

Su Muluo: “??”

 

That’s his feather! Why should he kiss for it!

 

With a blank expression, he said, “No kiss, give it to me now.”

 

Long Ling said, “No kiss, no feather. I’ve kissed the phoenix several times, but the phoenix doesn’t even kiss me once, so stingy.”

 

After saying this, he hid the feather away.

 

Very arrogant.

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

Moments later, a small black dragon was tied into a very pretty knot, hanging from Su Muluo’s finger like a keychain, swinging back and forth, back and forth.

 

His eyes were filled with deep resentment.

 

But he still stubbornly clutched the feather tightly with his little paws, refusing to let go.

---

T/N: Hello hello! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

 

Chapter 23: Rutting Period?

 

Su Muluo slept deeply and comfortably, feeling as if he was nestled in a warm embrace, reminiscent of when he was a little phoenix.

 

Back then, he would snuggle up to the dragon egg, instinctively absorbing its warmth.

 

As morning light filtered through the thin curtains, Su Muluo opened his eyes.

 

It was still a bit cold, so he curled up in the soft bedding, lazily rubbing against the hand beside him.

 

Wait, a hand?

 

Su Muluo suddenly became fully awake and looked up—

 

A man in black was sitting by the bed, wearing a mask, silently watching him.

 

“…”

 

Su Muluo remained speechless for a while.

 

The room was very quiet, almost awkwardly so. Although the dark golden eyes behind the man’s mask showed no emotion, Su Muluo somehow sensed a hint of unease.

 

Noticing this, he sat up and hesitantly spoke his first words: “Why are you wearing a mask?”

 

The man was silent for a moment before replying in a low voice, “I’m afraid you’ll find me ugly.”

 

The deep, pleasant voice was exactly like the one in his dreams. Su Muluo reached out slowly, testing, and removed the mask.

 

The man remained motionless, allowing him to take it off, revealing a handsome and flawless face, identical to what Su Muluo had seen in the Mirror of Origin.

 

But now, the man’s expression was not natural, showing obvious tension.

 

Su Muluo looked at him for a while, then lightly coughed and averted his gaze, saying, “Indeed.”

 

Man: “…”

 

Su Muluo then laughed and said, “Just kidding, you’re not ugly at all. In fact, you’re quite handsome.”

 

The man’s eyes brightened slightly, and he raised his hand, trying to embrace him.

 

Su Muluo was startled and instinctively moved aside.

 

He knew this man was his dragon, but he used to be a little dragon and now had turned into a real person. Suddenly, he found himself unsure how to interact with him.

 

It was like someone you had known for years suddenly changed drastically, and no one could easily accept that. Moreover, this was his dragon, his partner, closer than anyone else… Realizing this, Su Muluo felt even more confused about his feelings.

 

The man noticed his reaction, and a hint of sadness flashed in his dark golden eyes. But he quickly hid it, as he had anticipated this outcome. He soon concealed his sadness and asked, “Is the phoenix hungry? Do you want something to eat?”

 

The term “phoenix” reminded Su Muluo of the silver-haired young man in the Mirror of Origin, making his expression darken slightly.

 

He looked up at the man again and shook his head, “I’m not hungry.”

 

“But you’ve been sleeping for a whole day,” the man said. “The phoenix has been sleeping a lot recently and shedding feathers. You need to eat more to recover.”

 

Su Muluo: “…” No need to remind him about the shedding.

 

So he changed the subject, “I still don’t know your name. Do you have one?”

 

He clearly remembered his own name when he hatched, “Su Muluo.” Although he used to call his dragon Little Black Dragon, the other must have a name too.

 

The man nodded, “Long Ling.”

 

Long Ling.

 

Su Muluo tasted the name in his mind, and a different kind of emotion emerged, like a taste of honey, making him feel slightly sweet inside and out.

 

He smiled and said, “It’s a nice name.”

 

Long Ling’s gaze tightened, capturing this smile in his eyes. He liked seeing Su Muluo smile at him. His phoenix’s smile was beautiful, with eyes full of gentleness… reflecting only him.

 

He wanted the phoenix to smile at him every day, only at him.

 

Possessiveness, like sticky mud, spread in his heart. Long Ling showed no sign of it on his face, lowering his head and gently approaching Su Muluo.

 

The phoenix was right in front of him, and he inhaled the scent he liked from this person, gradually suppressing the restlessness in his heart.

 

Su Muluo, not knowing his intentions, tilted his head and asked, “You could already turn into a human before, right?”

 

Long Ling nodded again.

 

Su Muluo knew this dragon had pretended in front of him for several days and secretly took advantage of him. If it were before, he would have angrily patted the dragon’s head, but looking at the man sitting in front of him now, he didn’t know how to start.

 

Finally, he could only change the subject, “I need to get up and change. Can you go out for a bit?”

 

Long Ling responded with an “oh” but did not move.

 

“Can’t I stay here?”

 

Su Muluo: “Why should you stay here?”

 

Long Ling was very honest: “I want to see the phoenix.”

 

Su Muluo appreciated his honesty and promptly pushed him out.

 

The door closed, and Long Ling waited outside, wandering around in boredom.

 

Unhappy.

 

He hadn’t revealed his human form earlier because he was unsure if the phoenix would like his appearance and was worried the phoenix would distance himself after seeing his human form.

 

Now it seemed his worries were justified.

 

But Long Ling did not regret it. After all, Su Muluo’s body had some problems recently, and he needed to stay by the phoenix’s side to protect him.

 

Moreover, they had time. Maybe it wouldn’t take long for his phoenix to accept him.

 

After a few minutes, Su Muluo finished changing and opened the door. Long Ling immediately approached, asking, “Does the phoenix want breakfast? I can make it for you.”

 

Su Muluo asked, “Can you cook?”

 

Long Ling paused, “I can learn.”

 

Su Muluo laughed, “Alright, then learn from me.”

 

Today’s breakfast was simple porridge, not requiring much skill. First, soak the rice for half an hour, add a few drops of sesame oil, pour the rice into boiling water, stir over high heat for a few minutes until the grains swell and separate, then simmer over low heat.

 

As Su Muluo stirred the rice with a spoon, Long Ling watched from the side. Suddenly, Long Ling reached from behind, naturally covering Su Muluo’s hand and holding the spoon.

 

Su Muluo: “!”

 

He immediately let go of the spoon and stepped aside.

 

Long Ling paused and asked, “Isn’t the phoenix going to teach me?”

 

His tone sounded a bit aggrieved, and seeing the gloom in his eyes, Su Muluo opened his mouth to say something… but couldn’t, so he silently averted his gaze.

 

He felt troubled too. When Little Black Dragon hatched, he didn’t react this way.

 

But he knew that turning into a human meant having a closer relationship with his dragon, a relationship completely different from before—maybe because he subconsciously couldn’t accept this change, he felt so uneasy.

 

Su Muluo rubbed his forehead, sighing helplessly, “Just stir it a bit more, then let it simmer. Nothing else needs to be done.”

 

Long Ling responded with an “oh” and slowly stirred the porridge.

 

Neither spoke again. After half an hour, the porridge was ready. Long Ling asked, “Do you want to try it?”

 

Su Muluo was checking his phone nearby. Hearing this, he looked up and saw a spoonful of cooled porridge offered to him.

 

He took a sip, finding it soft and sticky, “Tastes good.”

 

Long Ling’s lips curved slightly, and he took out a bowl to serve the porridge.

 

Su Muluo watched him for a few seconds and suddenly asked, “Aren’t you going to taste it?”

 

“I’ve tried it.”

 

Su Muluo: “……”

 

So did he switch spoons?

 

Long Ling seemed to sense his thoughts and said, “No.”

 

Then he ran off with the bowl.

 

Su Muluo: “????”

 

He’s taking advantage of him again!

 

As expected, he’s not a proper dragon!

 

Su Muluo was so annoyed, but he had no way to deal with this dragon… He could only leave with a dark face and in silence.

 

Long Ling put the porridge he had served for Su Muluo on the table and took a bowl for himself. The two of them sat at the dining table and drank porridge. After a while, Su Muluo asked, “Why did you only hatch after coming here?”

 

This was a question he had wanted to ask before. Long Ling replied, “It has nothing to do with being here; it’s just that the time had come.”

 

Su Muluo said, “Oh,” and asked, “Then why did you need me to cook for you?”

 

Long Ling said, “Dragons need high temperatures to hatch.”

 

Su Muluo: “…… Pfft.”

 

Although Long Ling said it seriously, Su Muluo couldn’t help but laugh when he remembered the dragon egg that nearly got cooked into a dead egg.

 

Long Ling saw him laughing and smiled slightly, “The phoenix looks really good when smiling.”

 

Su Muluo immediately stopped smiling.

 

Long Ling: “……”

 

Su Muluo took a slow sip of porridge, thought of something, and asked, “I have another question. Why didn’t you let me pinch your tail?”

 

Long Ling, with anticipation, asked, “Does the phoenix let me touch its feathers?”

 

Su Muluo looked at him warily: “No.”

 

“Then I won’t let you either.” Long Ling said a bit unhappily, “I’ll let you pinch my tail when the phoenix lets me touch its feathers.”

 

Su Muluo: Tsk.

 

He stopped talking and continued to drink his porridge.

 

When he was almost done with his bowl, Su Muluo heard Long Ling ask, “Does the phoenix know why it fainted yesterday?”

 

Su Muluo shook his head and said, “If I had known, I wouldn’t have bothered with those people last night and would have gone straight home.”

 

He hadn’t expected to be so exhausted that he fell asleep on the street… Fortunately, his dragon brought him back.

 

Su Muluo suddenly felt a pang of realization and asked, “Wait, how did you bring me back last night?”

 

“Carried you,” Long Ling blinked and said, “The phoenix is light and soft, easy to carry.”

 

Su Muluo: “……”

 

Long Ling added, “I’d like to carry you again.”

 

Su Muluo: “……”

 

Su Muluo pushed the bowl towards Long Ling and said, “Go wash the dishes!”

 

So annoyed, he would make this person do all the housework from now on!

 

Long Ling took the bowl obediently and went to the kitchen.

 

Su Muluo decided not to go to the café today. After all, he hadn’t fully adjusted to interacting with Long Ling and didn’t know how to introduce him to the customers.

 

So, for the rest of the day, the two of them stayed in the rented apartment and didn’t go out.

 

At ten in the evening, Su Muluo took a shower, and then it was Long Ling’s turn—he initially tried to use the excuse that he didn’t know how to bathe to get Su Muluo to help him, but Su Muluo rejected him ruthlessly.

 

The sound of water came from the bathroom, and Su Muluo sat on the sofa playing with his phone. After a while, the water stopped, and Long Ling came out from the bathroom.

 

Su Muluo looked up—he saw the man’s well-defined upper body, with only a towel wrapped around his waist.

 

Su Muluo was shocked: “Where are your clothes???”

 

Long Ling innocently shrugged: “I don’t have any.” Then he added, “The phoenix’s pajamas are too small, I can’t wear them.”

 

Su Muluo: “But you were wearing clothes this morning!”

 

“That was my scales,” Long Ling said, “I don’t have a second set of clothes.”

 

Su Muluo: “……”

 

Su Muluo stared at the innocent-looking Long Ling for a moment, sighed, and said, “Fine, I didn’t think of that. I’ll take you out to buy some clothes tomorrow.”

 

Long Ling responded eagerly, “It’s late. Is the phoenix going to sleep?”

 

Su Muluo glanced at the time and realized it was already ten o’clock. Strangely, he wasn’t feeling very sleepy today… Maybe it was because he had slept enough yesterday?

 

But he hadn’t shed any fur today, which was a good thing. Su Muluo got up and walked towards the bedroom.

 

Long Ling followed him inside.

 

And then was pushed out.

 

Long Ling: “?”

 

“Wait a moment,” Su Muluo said with a stern face, “I’m getting the bedding. Go sleep on the sofa.”

 

He initially wanted Long Ling to sleep on the sofa, but considering he didn’t have pajamas, he might catch a cold, so he decided to sacrifice himself.

 

Once they bought clothes tomorrow, he would make this dragon sleep on the sofa!

 

Long Ling paused for a second and then asked, “Does the phoenix not want to sleep with me?”

 

Su Muluo: “I’m not sleeping with you. How old are you?”

 

“But we’re partners,” Long Ling suddenly grabbed Su Muluo’s hand, looking unhappy, “We used to sleep together.”

 

Su Muluo gently removed his hand and said in a very gentle tone, “That was because you were small before. Now that you’ve grown up, you need to sleep alone.”

 

Long Ling: “??? But I—”

 

“No whining!” Su Muluo said, “Otherwise, I’ll hang you on the door handle!”

 

Long Ling: “……”

 

Long Ling looked at his phoenix in silence, his gaze filled with deep resentment.

 

Su Muluo ignored him, cruelly taking a blanket and walking out the door—

 

But just as he was about to leave the bedroom, Long Ling grabbed the corner of his shirt and said, “Fine, let me sleep on the sofa.”

 

Su Muluo said, “No, you don’t have any pajamas.”

 

Long Ling said, “I’m a dragon; I’m not afraid of the cold.”

 

This was actually true; he wasn’t afraid of the cold. Plus, his phoenix was delicate and beautiful, so he was reluctant to make the phoenix sleep on the sofa.

 

But Su Muluo didn’t want Long Ling to sleep on the sofa without pajamas. The two of them debated at the door, and finally, Long Ling said, “If the phoenix doesn’t let me sleep on the sofa, I’ll carry the phoenix to bed and do this and that,” and then was driven out of the bedroom by the enraged phoenix.

 

With the room light turned off, Su Muluo lay in bed, and for some reason, he suddenly found it hard to fall asleep.

 

Usually, at this time, a little dragon would be snuggled up next to him, and they would fall asleep together… And even further back, when they were in the mountains, he and the dragon egg used to sleep close together.

 

Now, his dragon was still by his side, but separated by a wall and a room, no longer snuggled together.

 

“……”

 

Su Muluo suddenly realized that this was the first time in eighteen hundred years since his hatching that he was going to sleep alone.

 

For a moment, he wanted to call Long Ling in and sleep together like they used to. But thinking of those dark golden eyes and that man’s face… he hesitated.

 

Time silently passed, and the phoenix turned over a few times in bed, still unable to fall asleep.

 

The first half of the night seemed to drag on forever, but by the later part of the night, for some reason, a wave of drowsiness surged up suddenly, just like yesterday.

 

Su Muluo felt his vision blur, his eyelids too heavy to lift. He sank into the soft blankets and quickly fell asleep.

 

But his sleep wasn’t restful; he felt as though he was lying on searing flames. Although he wasn’t being burned, he was drenched in sweat and couldn’t seem to escape the discomfort.

 

The distressing sensation continued for a long time until he heard a deep, worried voice calling him—it was Long Ling waking him up.

 

“Phoenix, Phoenix?” Long Ling held Su Muluo’s hand, looking concerned, “What’s wrong? Are you feeling unwell? I’m here, look at me.”

 

“……”

 

The familiar scent enveloped him. Su Muluo struggled to open his eyes, sweat soaking his soft black hair. His breathing was slightly rapid, and his beautiful ink-black eyes looked somewhat dazed.

 

Long Ling’s gaze faltered for a moment, a thought flashing through his mind. In an instant, it seemed like all of the phoenix’s unusual behavior lately was explained.

 

“Phoenix.”

 

Long Ling raised his hand, his long, slender fingers gently brushing over Su Muluo’s face. His voice was soft and slow, as if afraid of startling the phoenix, but with a hint of vague anticipation.

 

“Are you… in heat?”

---

T/N: Hello hello! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

 

Chapter 22: A Light Kiss

 

Despite feeling aggrieved, the little black dragon kept its mouth shut, showing no intention of making a sound.  

 

Su Muluo looked at the small dragon, feeling it was being deliberately obtuse, relying on the fact that he couldn’t do anything about it. How detestable.  

 

If you have the guts, just never turn into a human again!  

 

Thinking this, Su Muluo patted the little black dragon’s head.  

 

After a while, drowsiness swept over him again. He pulled the quilt over himself and lay back down on the bed.  

 

The little black dragon made a soft sound, “Ao?”  

 

Going to sleep again?  

 

“I’m sleepy,” Su Muluo said. “It must be because you passed some bad stuff to me.”  

 

The little black dragon silently accepted the blame, grew larger again, and wrapped around its phoenix.  

 

Su Muluo, with his eyes half-closed and feeling too tired to move, lazily pushed it away, “Don’t take advantage of me.”  

 

The black dragon pretended not to hear.  

 

When its phoenix was sleepy, it would become soft and adorable, allowing it to be intimately entwined. Even if it went a bit too far, it was fine.  

 

It loved its phoenix the most.  

 

Thinking this, the black dragon happily buried its head in the crook of its phoenix’s shoulder.  

 

Su Muluo lazily let it entwine him. After a few minutes, he grumbled a bit, “You’re cold.”  

 

When the black dragon grew larger, its body was covered with cold scales. It wasn’t so bad when the temperature wasn’t too low, but now it felt a bit chilly.  

 

Hearing this, the black dragon paused for a second, then pulled the quilt over Su Muluo, “Ao.”  

 

Su Muluo gently tugged the corner of the quilt, burying half his face into the soft pillow and closed his eyes.  

 

The black dragon watched its phoenix fall asleep in its embrace and nuzzled him affectionately.  

 

In doing so, it knocked off a feather.  

 

The black dragon: “…”  

 

Su Muluo had already fallen asleep and didn’t notice. The black dragon quietly picked up the feather and gently wrapped itself around its phoenix again.  

 

Its phoenix had indeed been a bit off lately.  

 

The black dragon thought.  

 

It decided to observe for another day, and if there was no improvement, then it would…  

 

Holding this thought, the black dragon gently rested its head against Su Muluo’s, guarding its phoenix quietly throughout the night.  

 

Su Muluo had a very restful sleep and felt much less drowsy when he woke up.  

 

Opening his eyes, he found himself staring into the dark golden eyes of the black dragon. Feeling good, he petted its head.  

 

The black dragon nuzzled into his palm affectionately. Su Muluo then got up and saw a white feather beside his pillow.  

 

“…”  

 

He picked up the feather silently and glanced at the black dragon beside him.  

 

The black dragon instantly shrunk to a tiny size, hugging its tail tightly and let out a soft cry, “Ao.”  

 

It wasn’t me who knocked it off!  

 

Su Muluo: “Doesn’t matter, I blame you.”  

 

Despite his words, he didn’t do anything to the little black dragon and instead sighed softly, putting the feather away.  

 

Over the recent period, he had already lost six feathers, more than he had lost in the past few hundred years combined. Though he tried to console himself that it was just molting season and new feathers would grow back, he still felt a bit unhappy.  

 

The little black dragon noticed his unhappiness and rolled in his hand, nudging his fingers with its small, soft horns.  

 

Su Muluo rubbed the little black dragon’s head, checked his phone, and saw it was time to go to the café. He got up to wash and get ready.  

 

Recently, the temperature had dropped sharply, showing signs of winter approaching. It even rained last night, bringing a chill wind down the street. Su Muluo, dressed in a soft, light-colored trench coat, held the warm little black dragon in his hands.  

 

Because of the cold weather, Qiansui didn’t want to go out either. When Su Muluo arrived at the café, he saw it sitting at the entrance with a few well-behaved stray cats behind it.  

 

After a few seconds of staring at each other, Su Muluo said, “Are these your friends?”  

 

Qiansui: “Meow.”  

 

Su Muluo chuckled and said, “Let them in then.”  

 

So, a group of cats lined up and entered the café, with Su Muluo giving each of them a can of cat food.  

 

While the cats were burying their heads in the cat food, Qiansui watched them from the side. When they finished eating, it meowed and led them into the staff lounge.  

 

At first, Su Muluo didn’t pay much attention, thinking Qiansui just wanted to play with its friends there. But when the sounds of cats meowing continuously and intensely came from inside, he realized something was wrong.  

 

A group of cats gathered in one room, meowing so loudly; could it be that Qiansui was…  

 

His heart skipped a beat, and he quickly walked over and pushed open the lounge door.  

 

Inside the lounge, the bathroom door was open, and a boy was squatting inside, trying hard to push a few frantically screaming cats into a foam-filled bathtub.  

 

Su Muluo: “…”  

 

The boy looked no older than eighteen, with a very delicate appearance and green eyes—it was Qiansui in human form.  

 

Noticing someone outside, Qiansui looked up, expressionless, and gazed at Su Muluo.  

 

“What?” he asked. “Do you need something?”  

 

Su Muluo: “I thought you were molesting the cats.”  

 

Qiansui: “???”  

 

Qiansui’s eyes widened in anger. Just as he was about to say something, he saw the little black dragon poking its head out of Su Muluo’s pocket. He swallowed his words and calmly said, “No, I’m giving them a bath.”  

 

Then he added, “I’ll clean up afterward.”  

 

Su Muluo, finding his suppressed anger amusing, said, “Alright, I won’t disturb you then.”  

 

He then closed the door and left.  

 

Although the weather was very cold today, many customers still came to the café. They sat with their warm coffee, chatting leisurely, creating a very pleasant atmosphere.  

 

After a while, a customer walked in. It was a young man with earrings who had been coming in frequently these days. As soon as Su Muluo saw him, he put the little black dragon into his pocket, hiding it from view.  

 

With the air conditioning on, the young man sighed in relief as he entered. “So warm. Boss, one special coffee.”  

 

He handed Su Muluo some cash and habitually glanced at Su Muluo’s hands, looking for the toy loach from the other day.  

 

Of course, Su Muluo wasn’t going to show it to him and calmly met his gaze. After a few seconds, the young man awkwardly coughed and went to find a seat.  

 

Meanwhile, the door to the staff lounge opened, and an orange cat led a few freshly washed cats out.  

 

These cute cats immediately caught the attention of the other café customers, who wanted to play with them. For a moment, the café was filled with soft meows, making Su Muluo wonder if he had opened a pet store instead.  

 

As the customers played with the cats, Qiansui jumped onto the bar counter, looking down at them coldly from his vantage point.  

 

Su Muluo felt its gaze was oddly similar to that of a mother-in-law scrutinizing her son-in-law. Because of this, he guessed the reason why it brought these stray cats here.  

 

With the weather turning cold, it would be tough for these cats to survive the winter. If someone was willing to adopt them, their lives would be much easier.  

 

Hearing all the meowing in the café, the little black dragon thought its phoenix had other cats outside and angrily poked its head out, letting out a cry, “Ao!”  

 

Where are these meows coming from?  

 

Su Muluo poked it, “I didn’t touch them, you little jealous creature.”  

 

The little black dragon looked around warily, making sure there were no other cats around its phoenix, then grabbed onto Su Muluo’s sleeve, trying to climb into his hand.  

 

Qiansui silently moved aside, keeping a distance that would allow it to escape at any moment. Su Muluo glanced at it and said, “If you have other friends, you can bring them over. Just don’t be too noisy at night, or we’ll get complaints.”  

 

Qiansui was silent for a few seconds before saying a small “Thank you.”  

 

As they talked, Su Muluo noticed a black cat sitting alone among the group. Whether it was because it was missing half an ear or its entirely black fur, it wasn’t as popular as its companions, sitting quietly and watching the others.  

 

At that moment, a hand tentatively reached out to it—it was the young man with the earrings.  

 

The black cat looked up at him for a few seconds, then leaned in and nuzzled his palm.  

 

The young man, eyes wide with delight, tried to pick it up. But before he could fully extend his hand, the black cat jumped into his arms.  

 

“…”  

 

A few minutes later, the young man excited

 

ly approached the bar with the black cat in his arms.  

 

“Boss, can I adopt this cat?” he asked. “I feel like we have a special connection!”  

 

Su Muluo glanced at Qiansui, who was also observing the young man.

### Chapter 22: A Light Kiss

 

There was a sound.

 

So, Su Muluo spoke on its behalf, “Is it willing to go with you?”

 

The young man looked down at the black cat, which obediently lay in his arms and meowed at Qiansui.

 

“It called out!” The young man was even more excited, “Boss, look! It wants to go!”

 

Su Muluo glanced at Qiansui, seeing it had no objections, he said, “Alright, remember to take good care of it, or you might be watched.”

 

At first, the young man didn’t understand Su Muluo’s words, thinking he was joking. But as he was about to leave, he inadvertently met the gaze of the nearby orange cat and shivered.

 

That look, why does it seem like that of a mafia boss?

 

Muttering to himself, the young man lovingly petted the black cat in his arms and left.

 

By the end of the day, most of the cats Qiansui brought had been taken by the café’s customers. Su Muluo noticed that as those customers left, Qiansui marked them, probably planning to visit their homes later to check if they were treating the cats well.

 

At seven in the evening, Qiansui was curled up with the remaining two cats, eating cat food. Su Muluo, feeling a bit sleepy, said to it, “You close the door later. Don’t go out tonight.”

 

Qiansui paused its eating and looked up, “Every time you say that, something happens.”

 

Su Muluo smiled slightly, “Don’t worry, it’s not aimed at you.”

 

Then he put on his coat and walked out.

 

The night was colder than the day, with a cold wind sweeping through the streets, people hurrying along wrapped in their clothes.

 

Su Muluo walked slowly down the street, a warm little dragon wrapped around his wrist. As before, he walked from the bustling city center to a deserted street and stopped there.

 

The street lamps cast a dim light, and three figures silently appeared.

 

They wore black hoodies, their faces hidden in the hoods, making it impossible to see their features. However, Su Muluo immediately recognized their true forms—they were three bird demons.

 

Bird demons… which meant they were from the bird tribe.

 

Su Muluo thought of the bird tribe elder he had seen at the Bureau of the Otherworldly and said, “Is there something you need?”

 

The three bird demons stood silently, none responding.

 

Su Muluo lowered his eyes slightly, feeling very sleepy.

 

Then he said blandly, “If there’s nothing, I’ll be leaving.”

 

As he turned to leave, the three bird demons suddenly moved.

 

Wings sprouted from their backs, and they rushed towards Su Muluo at great speed—only to be instantly knocked back.

 

Three figures crashed heavily to the ground, cries of pain ringing out. Su Muluo stood under the streetlamp, looking at them with no emotion.

 

“I don’t know you, and I don’t want to know your intentions,” he said. “Get lost.”

 

The three grimaced, looking up to see the extremely beautiful young man standing under the cold moonlight, his ink-colored eyes cold and emotionless.

 

… This person’s power was unfathomable, and his nature was cold and ruthless, not someone to be provoked.

 

The three bird demons exchanged glances, turned into three differently colored birds, and quickly flew away.

 

In reality, they didn’t know that Su Muluo was simply exhausted, feeling he would fall asleep at any moment. So, he kept a stern face, not wanting to deal with them.

 

After the bird demons left, the area fell silent. Su Muluo took the little black dragon in his hands, intending to fly back, but suddenly stumbled and had to hold onto a nearby streetlamp.

 

The little black dragon’s dark golden eyes narrowed, “Roar?”

 

“Nothing…” Su Muluo steadied himself, his long eyelashes drooping, eyes dark and unclear, as if holding an indissolvable ink, “I’m just a bit sleepy… want to sleep.”

 

Drowsiness surged like a dense tide, irresistible. His vision began to blur, and he wanted to comfort the little black dragon’s anxious cries… but the words never came out.

 

The phoenix lost consciousness, falling into the arms of a man the next moment.

 

He was a man with black hair and black clothes, his features handsome and deep, with unique dark golden eyes.

 

His strong arms wrapped around Su Muluo’s waist, effortlessly holding the phoenix. His beautiful brows furrowed slightly, his gaze dark, staring unblinkingly at his phoenix.

 

Su Muluo lay heavily on his shoulder, feeling cold, and unconsciously clutched at his clothes.

 

The man: “…”

 

The man lowered his head slightly, affectionately brushing his forehead against Su Muluo’s, placing a light kiss between his brows, and quickly left.

---

T/N: Hello hello! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

 

Chapter 21: Little Mouse

 

“What is this?!

 

What’s going on?!

 

How come it suddenly has a little lover?!”

 

Little Black Dragon never expected that after just one look at the Mirror of Origins, its phoenix would no longer want it. It was both bewildered and shocked, refusing to believe it. Instantly, it expanded and tightly coiled around the phoenix.

 

“Roar!”

 

Su Muluo looked down at the black dragon clinging to him, feeling gloomy and unwilling to speak.

 

The black dragon’s dark golden eyes were filled with grievance as it nuzzled its head into the crook of his phoenix’s shoulder.

 

“Roar.”

 

It didn’t have any little lover! Other than the phoenix, it liked no other bird.

 

Besides, its phoenix was the most beautiful; no other bird could compare! It wouldn’t even look at them.

 

“It’s not true,” Su Muluo replied, “That person is as beautiful as me.”

 

Black Dragon: “Roar!”

 

But it only likes its phoenix! Always has and always will! It never had a little lover, not in the past and not in the future!

 

It even raised a paw, ready to swear.

 

Su Muluo looked at its paw and said, “What do you want to swear on?”

 

The black dragon thought for a moment and then roared, “Roar!”

 

Honey?

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

Su Muluo patted the black dragon’s head and said, “I don’t want honey.” Then, after a brief pause, he added, “If you lie to me, you’ll drink milk every day.”

 

The tone of this sentence was noticeably lighter, a joke. The black dragon knew its phoenix was appeased and returned to its small size, sticking to his palm and nuzzling him.

 

“Chirp roar.”

 

It loves the phoenix the most and only the phoenix.

 

Su Muluo looked at the little dragon in his palm, then after a few seconds, he patted its head.

 

He didn’t actually believe his dragon would like someone else. After all, they had been together since they were eggs. But the past revealed in the Mirror of Origin still bothered him, and he didn’t know how to accept it.

 

Who was that silver-haired phoenix?

 

Su Muluo pondered silently.

 

Could it be… a father-son relationship with his dragon?

 

…They didn’t really look alike.

 

Su Muluo frowned again and poked the little black dragon.

 

The little black dragon immediately hugged his finger and pecked at his fingertip.

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

A hint of a smile flashed in Su Muluo’s eyes, but he quickly regained his seriousness and said, “No matter what, when you regain your memory, you’re not allowed to dislike me.”

 

Little Black Dragon: “Roar!”

 

It would never dislike its phoenix—back when it was just an egg, it had a natural attachment and affection for the phoenix next to it. It didn’t know anything, but it knew this was its phoenix, its precious treasure that no one could take away.

 

So, even if it had a past life before becoming a dragon egg, even if it had forgotten that past, it clearly remembered one thing—it only liked this phoenix. If there was a next life, if it were reincarnated, it would still only like this phoenix.

 

The little black dragon hugged Su Muluo’s hand tightly, nuzzling him in various ways. Su Muluo felt the tangible warmth of the little dragon in his palm, and the anxiety in his heart slowly eased.

 

From the Mirror of Origin and his previous dreams, it seemed that he and the little black dragon each had a past. But he didn’t know the specifics of that past or their relationship at that time.

 

However, since they ended up as the last remaining eggs of the dragon and phoenix clans, nestled together, their relationship must have been extraordinary… perhaps they had been together even earlier?

 

Thinking of this, Su Muluo’s eyes brightened a little, and his mood improved.

 

No matter what, his dragon only liked him. As for that silver-haired phoenix, he didn’t know or recognize it.

 

So, he ignored the Mirror of Origin and took the little black dragon out.

 

In the corridor at the entrance, Liu He was waiting. Seeing Su Muluo come out, she smiled slightly and asked, “Mr. Su, did you see what you wanted to see?”

 

Su Muluo paused for a second and said, “No.”

 

Liu He: “!”

 

Her expression immediately changed slightly. She glanced at the room and saw the Mirror of Origin still lying on the table, then breathed a very subtle sigh of relief.

 

But Su Muluo noticed her small movement and thought she was worried he might break the Mirror of Origin. He said, “Don’t worry, the mirror is still intact.”

 

Liu He, realizing he noticed her movement, smiled awkwardly and said, “Sorry, Mr. Su, it was just a reflex.”

 

Su Muluo gave her a puzzled look, so she explained, “Actually, we often use this mirror because several of our leaders… often use it to catch cheaters.”

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

Su Muluo glanced at the little black dragon.

 

Little Black Dragon: “…”

 

Liu He continued, “You know, people who find out they’ve been cheated on aren’t in a good mood, so they sometimes do extreme things like smashing the mirror… The Mirror of Origin has been broken several times, and our branch in Lin City was even labeled the ‘Most Uncivilized Organization’ by the headquarters. The director had to treat them to several meals to get rid of that title.”

 

After she finished speaking, she remembered Su Muluo’s earlier response of “no” and cautiously glanced at him.

 

“You wouldn’t be—”

 

“No,” Su Muluo quickly interrupted, “I’m not wearing a green hat, thank you.”

 

Liu He: “Oh.” Then she whispered, “Actually, I wasn’t going to ask you that.”

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

Su Muluo felt this visit to the Bureau of Extraordinary Beings was extremely unfriendly, not wanting to stay a second longer. He politely thanked Liu He and then quickly left.

 

One person and one dragon left the Bureau of Extraordinary Beings, neither looking very happy. The little black dragon rubbed against Su Muluo’s hand, and as it rubbed, a feather fell off.

 

A pristine white phoenix feather.

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

Another feather!

 

And it was rubbed off by his dragon!!

 

He poked the little black dragon and said, “You rubbed it off, you compensate!”

 

The little black dragon immediately hugged the feather, looking innocently at him.

 

Su Muluo felt like misfortune was piling up, although it seemed like he was molting, and the feathers would grow back… But he was already 1,800 years old; he should have reached adulthood long ago. Why didn’t he molt before, but now he was?

 

And he had been feeling sleepy lately, even during the day, just like the little black dragon before.

 

The more Su Muluo thought about it, the more he felt all this was related to the little black dragon. His oddities only appeared after the little black dragon hatched. So, he rubbed the little dragon’s head, trying to rub it bald.

 

The little black dragon, feeling wronged, knew coming to the Bureau of Extraordinary Beings would lead to no good. It hated the Bureau of Extraordinary Beings the most.

 

In the future, it must watch over its phoenix and never come here again!

 

Because of the Mirror of Origin and the feather, Su Muluo wasn’t in the mood to go to the coffee shop today. Feeling unusually tired, unable to muster any energy, he took the little black dragon home.

 

Initially, he only felt sleepy at night, then became drowsy in the afternoon. But today, it was still morning, and he was already struggling to keep his eyes open.

 

Back at the rental house, Su Muluo quickly prepared a simple lunch. The little black dragon, lying on the table, gnawed on some meat while watching its phoenix, whose eyelids were slowly drooping as he ate, eventually resting on the table, asleep.

 

Little Black Dragon: “Roar!”

 

You can’t sleep here! You’ll catch a cold!

 

It immediately went over to nudge Su Muluo. Su Muluo, with sleepy eyes, said, “Got it…”

 

Then, very reluctantly, he got up, carrying his little black dragon to the bed.

 

The large bed was soft, and Su Muluo buried himself in the warm, fluffy blankets. His smooth black hair slightly covered his beautiful brows, long eyelashes drooping, looking lazy and relaxed, like a beautiful bird taking a rest.

 

The little black dragon expanded, affectionately wrapping around Su Muluo. Su Muluo muttered, pushing it away slowly, “No taking advantage…”

 

The black dragon found its phoenix soft and adorable, so it stayed silent and wrapped around him tighter.

 

Su Muluo initially tried to push it a few times, but finding it impossible, he got annoyed and said, “I won’t bother with you… I’m going to sleep.”

 

This sentence was also soft. A hint of a smile appeared in the dark golden eyes of the dragon, its head nuzzling against Su Muluo’s hair, and it let out a low growl.

 

Su Muluo ignored the dragon, pulled the blanket over his head, and soon fell into a deep sleep in its embrace.

 

He slept very soundly. After some time, he gradually woke up.

 

But he wasn’t fully awake, half of his consciousness in reality, half still dreaming, too sleepy to open his eyes.

 

In this half-awake state, he felt a strong arm tightly wrapped around his waist, as if he were nestled in someone’s chest, even feeling their body warmth.

 

The familiar feeling from a few days ago returned. Su Muluo,

 

 lying there lazily, tried to nuzzle closer, but his half-asleep body refused to respond, staying in that warm, cozy embrace.

 

In his dream, a voice asked, “Why are you molting again?”

 

A gentle voice replied, “Who knows, maybe I’m still young?”

 

“How come? You’re not a chick.”

 

The latter voice, full of irritation, said, “If I say I’m young, I’m young!”

 

The first voice was speechless, clearly not wanting to provoke the other further. But a low chuckle soon followed.

 

“Alright, you’re young.”

 

…

 

“Su Muluo.”

 

“Su Muluo.”

 

The voice was faint but so close that Su Muluo woke up from his dream. Opening his eyes, he found himself still alone in the room, lying in the warm embrace of the black dragon.

 

The warm embrace felt so real; he rubbed against the black dragon, letting it tighten around him, as if recalling the dream he had just had.

 

It seemed like… they were having a conversation in the past?

---

T/N: Hello hello! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

 

Chapter 20: I Don’t Want You Anymore

 

Although Su Muluo opened his eyes as soon as he noticed something was wrong, there was no one by his side, only a little black dragon looking at him with round, innocent eyes.

 

“…” 

 

Su Muluo looked left and right but found no one. He poked the little black dragon and asked, “Did you grow bigger again?”

 

The little black dragon shook its head: “Aow.”

 

No, it hadn’t. It had been behaving well the whole time.

 

Su Muluo’s eyes showed a hint of suspicion, “Really?” 

 

But just now, he wasn’t pressed by a bigger dragon; it felt more like someone was holding him… yet there was no one else around.

 

Unable to figure it out, Su Muluo glanced at the little black dragon again.

 

Could it be… his dragon turned into a human?

 

But that didn’t seem right. If it really had turned into a human, this little dragon would definitely be showing off happily and taking advantage of him, instead of sitting here innocently like nothing had happened.

 

While Su Muluo was deep in thought, the little black dragon’s dark golden eyes stared at him unblinkingly, and after a while, it flicked its tail and let out a soft “Aow.”

 

It was a bit sleepy.

 

Su Muluo looked at it and said, “Alright, let’s sleep.”

 

The little black dragon was about to happily snuggle with Su Muluo when his phoenix calmly added, “Anyway, if there’s a rat’s tail, it will show sooner or later.”

 

The little black dragon: “…”

 

It was still early in the morning, and Su Muluo lay back down, pulling the soft blanket over himself and the little dragon beside him.

 

The little black dragon curled up at Su Muluo’s shoulder, yawning softly. Su Muluo pinched its little horns and said, “Don’t disturb me.”

 

The little black dragon: “Aow!”

 

It had never disturbed anyone!

 

Su Muluo laughed and said, “Then don’t take advantage of me.”

 

The little black dragon fell silent.

 

Su Muluo squinted slightly, “Why aren’t you responding?”

 

The little black dragon: “Chirp.”

 

Looking innocent again, the little dragon stared at Su Muluo for a few seconds before he quickly reached out to grab its tail.

 

The little black dragon quickly hugged its own tail, watching him warily.

 

Su Muluo: Tsk.

 

He still couldn’t catch the little black dragon’s tail today. He patted its head and said, “Sleep.”

 

In the second half of the night, the man did not appear beside Su Muluo again. He slept soundly and had a strange dream.

 

In the dream, it seemed like a distant past, and the surroundings were unfamiliar. It wasn’t a city with tall buildings but a secluded paradise, with a clear stream flowing gently and green mountains stretching far away.

 

Here, Su Muluo seemed to become someone else, or perhaps he was still himself—his long black hair unbound, casually falling over his shoulders. He wore a loose white robe, walking slowly by the stream alone.

 

But soon, he realized he wasn’t alone; he was walking with another person.

 

It was a black-haired boy, not even reaching his waist, with small dragon horns on his head, silently holding onto the hem of his robe, following closely beside him.

 

Su Muluo’s gaze fell on the boy’s face, but before he could see clearly, the dream ended.

 

Then he woke up.

 

“…”

 

Daylight poured through the window. Still sleepy, Su Muluo buried himself deeper into the blanket.

 

The little black dragon was already awake, circling around him, its small horns rubbing against his face.

 

Su Muluo felt a tickle on his face and chuckled, recalling the boy in his dream who also had small horns. His drowsiness vanished instantly.

 

What kind of dream was that?

 

Who were the black-haired man and the boy?

 

Su Muluo opened his eyes and met the little black dragon’s dark golden gaze.

 

Did the boy in the dream have such dark golden eyes?

 

…He couldn’t remember clearly.

 

Frowning, Su Muluo sat up, placing the little black dragon in his palm.

 

He felt something was off lately, and that dream probably wasn’t just a dream… Maybe it was his past.

 

But why would he suddenly dream of his past?

 

While Su Muluo was silent, the little black dragon sensed his dilemma. It hugged his finger and softly called out, “Chirp.”

 

Su Muluo’s attention returned, and he looked at the little dragon, teasing it with his finger, “I dreamt of someone else last night.”

 

The little black dragon: “?”

 

Its eyes widened at Su Muluo, looking shocked and incredulous as if thinking, “My phoenix found another man outside?”

 

Su Muluo was amused by its expression and said, “What are you thinking? It was just a dream.” He then jokingly added, “Anyway, you can’t turn into a human right now, so what’s wrong with me dreaming of someone else?”

 

The little black dragon: “???”

 

Whatever Su Muluo said seemed to hit a nerve. The little black dragon suddenly tilted its head back and started chirping loudly, looking very angry.

 

Listening for a while, Su Muluo realized he couldn’t understand what the little dragon was babbling about. Finding it noisy, he stuffed it into his pocket and said, “So noisy, let’s go, I’m not listening to you.”

 

The little black dragon: “…”

 

Angry, it scratched at Su Muluo’s pocket but got no response. Then it let out a loud “Aow.”

 

Su Muluo reached a hand in, and the little black dragon clung to it.

 

“Who told you to babble nonsense,” Su Muluo said with a smile in his eyes, “I can’t understand a thing.”

 

The little black dragon huffed and turned its head away.

 

Su Muluo found it adorable and couldn’t help but laugh, patting its head before heading to the kitchen to make breakfast.

 

At ten o’clock, Su Muluo arrived at the coffee shop on time. There were not many customers yet, so he scrolled through his phone, accidentally opening WeChat’s Moments.

 

He didn’t have many friends on WeChat—his landlord was one, Huang Gaigai was another, and recently, he had added Liu He.

 

Su Muluo thought that Liu He, being busy with work at the Bureau of Extraordinary Beings, wouldn’t have time for her phone. To his surprise, she had posted on Moments just a few minutes ago.

 

“Is that dumb leader brain-dead? Inspections, inspections every day, why doesn’t he go climb a mountain!!”

 

“My vacation, argh!! I want a break, I want to eat hot pot, barbecue, and crayfish!!!”

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

This post was quite different from the Liu He he usually interacted with. However, seeing her post reminded him that he had some questions for Liu He.

 

So he clicked on Liu He’s profile picture and sent her a message.

 

“Excuse me, is there anything in the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs that can help someone recall their past?”

 

The question was a bit strange, but Liu He responded quickly.

 

“Yes, Mr. Su. You’re referring to the Source Mirror. It allows one to see the past of someone important to them and is a high-grade artifact.”

 

“If you need it, I can apply for its use, but it might take some time.”

 

Su Muluo had asked casually and didn’t expect such an artifact to exist. He felt it was fine to wait a while, so he thanked Liu He.

 

According to Liu He, the Source Mirror shows the past of someone important, not oneself. So if the mirror could be used, he might see the little black dragon’s past…

 

Thinking this, Su Muluo glanced at the little black dragon.

 

The little black dragon was also watching him. Seeing him chatting with Liu He, it immediately chirped and blocked the phone screen.

 

Su Muluo: “Pfft.”

 

He poked the little black dragon, “Little jealous one, getting jealous over this too.”

 

The little black dragon chirped indignantly, meaning it wanted to be jealous if it wanted to.

 

Su Muluo’s eyes curved, and he said, “You’re too small to block the screen. Turn into a human if you can.” He paused, then added, “But you have to be good-looking; I don’t want an ugly one.”

 

This was meant as a joke, but the little black dragon suddenly fell silent, not moving at all.

 

Su Muluo: “What’s wrong?”

 

He raised his hand to touch the little black dragon, but it refused his touch, hugging its tail and curling up into a ball, looking like it had shut down.

 

Su Muluo fell silent.

 

He had no idea why the little dragon suddenly shut down, feeling he hadn’t bullied it.

 

Was it because of that last sentence?

 

Thinking about it, Su Muluo realized that today the little black dragon seemed very sensitive to the topic of turning into a human. Observing it for a while, he raised an eyebrow and said, “Today, you reacted strongly both times I mentioned turning into a human.”

 

The little black dragon: “…”

 

Su Muluo: “So, how long until you turn into a human since you hatched?”

 

The little black dragon slowly lifted its head, looking up with innocent eyes, “Chirp.”

 

What’s it saying? It didn’t know.

 

Su Muluo wouldn’t let it off so easily, leaning in closer, staring at the little dragon, “It didn’t take me that long to transform. Are you really just a little mudfish spirit who can’t turn into a human?”

 

At

 

 these words, the little black dragon flared up, baring its tiny fangs and claws, growling at him.

 

Su Muluo chuckled, “Just kidding. What’s the big deal? Anyway, I still want you, whether you turn into a human or not.”

 

The little black dragon stopped baring its fangs, “Chirp?”

 

“Really?”

 

Su Muluo: “Really.”

 

No matter what you become, as long as you are yourself, I will always accept you.

 

The little black dragon’s eyes sparkled, and it softly nuzzled Su Muluo’s hand.

 

Su Muluo smiled gently. Looking at the time, he set the little black dragon aside and began preparing for the day’s work.

 

Throughout the day, the little black dragon didn’t cause any trouble. It stayed on the counter, watching him work, occasionally chirping softly. It was peaceful and content.

 

By evening, the coffee shop was busy. As Su Muluo served a customer, he overheard a couple discussing their upcoming vacation plans.

 

Hearing them, Su Muluo’s thoughts wandered. He hadn’t taken a break in a long time either.

 

Maybe after sorting out his past, he should take a vacation.

 

Thinking this, Su Muluo smiled to himself and continued his work.

 

—

 

Back home, Su Muluo opened his door, expecting to see his little black dragon zooming around. However, the house was eerily quiet.

 

He immediately sensed something was wrong. He rushed inside, calling out, “Little Black! Where are you?”

 

There was no response.

 

Su Muluo quickly checked every corner of the house but couldn’t find the little dragon. Panic started to set in.

 

Just as he was about to check the garden, he saw a familiar figure standing by the window.

 

It was a man in black, with dark golden eyes. He was holding the little black dragon, who looked listless and weak.

 

“Who are you?” Su Muluo demanded, his eyes filled with fury.

 

The man turned slowly, his gaze calm and composed, “I’m the guardian of this little dragon. You are not worthy of it.”

 

Su Muluo clenched his fists, stepping forward, “Let it go.”

 

The man smirked, “You think you can command me?”

 

Su Muluo’s eyes glowed with a fierce light, “I said, let it go.”

 

The man remained unfazed, “If you want it back, prove your worth.”

 

Before Su Muluo could react, the man and the little black dragon vanished into thin air.

 

Su Muluo stood there, his heart pounding, his mind racing. The little black dragon was taken from him, and he needed to get it back.

 

No matter what it took.

 

This statement had a bit of a fierce tone. After hearing it, Su Muluo fell silent for a moment. 

 

So the little dragon’s sulking earlier was really because of his remark, “I only want good-looking ones, not ugly ones”?

 

Su Muluo remembered the man in black he had seen in his dream. Although the man’s face was obscured, just from seeing those dark golden dragon eyes, he could tell that he should be very handsome.

 

So what exactly was this little dragon so hung up on?

 

Thinking about this, Su Muluo poked the little black dragon and said, “I never said you were ugly. Even if you were, I would still like you.”

 

This was true. He didn’t care much about appearances. If he did, he would have disliked the little black dragon when it was still an egg—after all, it looked like a duck egg back then.

 

Besides, looks can’t be eaten. After being together for so long, would he really reject the little dragon because of its appearance?

 

Su Muluo shared his thoughts with the little black dragon, and upon hearing this, it happily rolled around in his palm.

 

Seeing its joyful demeanor, Su Muluo was slightly speechless.

 

So, his dragon turning into a human form wouldn’t actually be that ugly, right?

 

…Well, ugly is ugly. Ultimately, he still liked this dragon.

 

He petted the little black dragon, letting it frolic around.

 

After a while, two young girls came into the coffee shop. They ordered two regular coffees and sat by the window, chatting about dinner.

 

“Hey, a new hot pot place opened nearby. Want to try it?”

 

“Definitely! I haven’t had hot pot in ages!”

 

Hearing the words “hot pot,” Su Muluo perked up.

 

He had seen many hot pot places in the area, with steaming, aromatic dishes that looked especially delicious. But since the little black dragon hadn’t transformed into a human yet, he couldn’t go, so he could only imagine it.

 

Now, hearing the girls’ conversation, he craved hot pot again. Although he couldn’t go to a hot pot restaurant for now, making it at home should be possible, right?

 

Su Muluo immediately took out his phone to search for how to make hot pot at home.

 

The little black dragon, also interested in hot pot, leaned over to watch. After researching for a while, they decided to have hot pot for dinner tonight.

 

However, making hot pot required a lot of preparation, so Su Muluo planned to close the shop early this afternoon and head to the supermarket to buy ingredients.

 

In the afternoon, the coffee shop got busier. A young man with an earring walked in.

 

Su Muluo remembered him from yesterday; the young man had shown great interest in the little black dragon. He immediately tucked the dragon into his pocket and asked, “What would you like to drink?”

 

The young man seemed more cheerful today and casually ordered a “specialty coffee,” then enthusiastically said, “Boss, your specialty coffee is amazing! After drinking it, I felt more energetic and even stronger!”

 

Su Muluo replied, “It contains my family’s secret recipe, which is beneficial to health.”

 

The young man exclaimed, “Oh! That explains it! This morning, I carried fifty pounds of rice and a sofa upstairs in one go!”

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

Although the essence of phoenix feathers could improve physical constitution, it shouldn’t work like that!

 

“You must have eaten something else unusual,” Su Muluo said diplomatically. “My coffee alone can’t make people stronger.”

 

The young man pondered for a moment and then shrugged, “Maybe. Anyway, as long as your coffee tastes good, that’s all that matters.”

 

He pulled out some cash to pay Su Muluo and glanced at his hand, disappointed not to see the toy loach from yesterday.

 

Su Muluo, not wanting him to see his dragon, said, “Please find a seat.”

 

After sending the young man away, he reached into his pocket and poked the little black dragon.

 

The little black dragon, not understanding, happily rubbed against his finger.

 

Business was good today, but Su Muluo was eager for hot pot, so he closed the shop early and headed to the supermarket with the little black dragon.

 

At the supermarket, Su Muluo referred to his phone’s notes while filling the cart with beef, tripe, fresh shrimp, enoki mushrooms, and other ingredients. He also bought several hot pot bases and a divided pot for convenience.

 

Once they had everything, they returned to the apartment and started preparing for the hot pot.

 

He boiled water in the pot, added a chicken stuffed with scallions and ginger, and simmered it slowly. Vegetables were meticulously cleaned, beef sliced into tender pieces, tripe cut thinly, and shrimp deveined. Two hours later, the chicken broth was ready. He took out the chicken, shredded the meat, mixed it with soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced scallions, ginger, and garlic. He then poured the broth into the divided pot and added a large chunk of spicy hot pot base to one side.

 

Next came the meat and vegetables. Beef rolled through the spicy broth, dipped in the prepared sauce, was tender and spicy, with oil dripping.

 

Recalling the previous water-boiled fish incident, Su Muluo prepared a clear broth for the little black dragon. While the clear broth was delicious, it couldn’t compare to the fragrant and spicy broth.

 

The little black dragon, eating the beef Su Muluo dipped for it, kept glancing at the spicy pot.

 

Seeing this, Su Muluo dipped a piece of tripe in the spicy pot and teased, “Want to eat this?”

 

The tripe, coated in spicy oil, looked very tempting. The little black dragon immediately got excited and chirped.

 

Su Muluo then ate it himself, “Not giving it to you.”

 

Little black dragon: “…”

 

In the dragon’s resentful gaze, Su Muluo laughed, went to the kitchen, and fetched a bowl. He ladled some clear broth into it, dipped the tripe in the spicy pot, then swirled it in the clear broth before feeding it to the little black dragon.

 

The little black dragon wasn’t good with spicy food; the water-boiled fish last time had it howling. But this tripe, dipped in the spicy pot and then the clear broth, retained the spicy flavor without being too hot.

 

The little black dragon happily ate it and wasn’t spicy this time, wagging its tail contentedly.

 

After the meal, the little black dragon, with a round belly, sprawled in Su Muluo’s palm, showing its belly. Su Muluo rubbed its tummy and laughed, “You ate so much, you look even chubbier.”

 

Hearing this, the little black dragon stared intently at Su Muluo.

 

Su Muluo: “Got it, got it, even if you’re chubby, I still like you.”

 

The little black dragon hummed, wriggling in the phoenix’s palm.

 

Staring at the little dragon, Su Muluo felt that it was particularly concerned about its image today, but still refused to transform into a human, keeping him on edge. Very annoying.

 

He tapped the little black dragon’s head, and it clung to his wrist with a chirp.

 

Although hot pot was delicious, cleaning up was a hassle. A few minutes later, looking at the pile of dishes, Su Muluo thought, when the little black dragon turned into a human, he would make him wash dishes every day.

 

And do all the housework!

 

The little black dragon, nestled in the phoenix’s pocket because the phoenix had to wash dishes, suddenly shivered and sneezed.

 

Two days later, Liu He contacted Su Muluo, informing him that the Tracing Mirror had been delivered to the Bureau of Extraordinary Beings If he needed it, he could come over anytime.

 

“Alright, thank you.”

 

After hanging up, Su Muluo poked the little black dragon, “We’re going to the Bureau of Extraordinary Beings.”

 

He had mentioned wanting the Tracing Mirror to the little black dragon earlier, and now the little dragon chirped in agreement.

 

Su Muluo put the little dragon in his pocket and set off.

 

The Bureau of Extraordinary Beings was as busy as ever. Liu He was waiting at the door, and when she saw Su Muluo, she quickly walked over.

 

“Mr. Su,” she greeted with a smile, “Good morning.”

 

Su Muluo smiled back slightly, “Good morning, and thank you for your help.”

 

“It was no trouble at all. We often move the Tracing Mirror around, so the procedures are quite simple,” Liu He replied. “Please follow me.”

 

She and Su Muluo walked into the Special Bureau, and at that moment, a group of people were approaching the entrance. When the two groups met, Liu He respectfully greeted the man at the forefront, “Elder Feng.”

 

The man she addressed as “Elder Feng” acknowledged her. He hadn’t paid much attention to the two of them initially, but when his gaze landed on Su Muluo, he stopped in his tracks.

 

Su Muluo remained calm and met the man’s eyes. He didn’t recognize him but could easily discern his true nature—a bird demon.

 

Based on Liu He’s earlier greeting, this person should be an elder of the bird clan. Although Su Muluo didn’t know why the bird clan elder was in Lincheng, he was confident it had nothing to do with him.

 

The atmosphere became tense as the bird clan elder stayed still. Liu He coughed and broke the silence, “Elder Feng, we have some business to attend to, so we’ll be leaving now.”

 

The bird clan elder remained silent for a few seconds before withdrawing his gaze from Su Muluo and nodding slightly.

 

The two groups then parted ways. After walking some distance, Liu He explained to Su Muluo, “Mr. Su, that was Feng Xuan, the bird clan elder. He arrived in Lincheng a few days ago, looking for someone.”

 

Su Muluo asked curiously, “Who are they looking for?”

 

Liu He shook her head, “They’re keeping it very secret. I’m not the one assisting them, so I don’t know.”

 

Su Muluo didn’t press further. He had never met that bird clan elder and didn’t think the elder knew him, so whoever the bird clan was looking for, it wasn’t him.

 

A few minutes later, the two arrived at a room. Inside, there was only a table with an ancient mirror on it. The mirror had a simple, elegant design with a unique aura.

 

Liu He said, “This is the Mirror of Origins. As long as you pick it up, you can see the past of someone important to you.”

 

A small black dragon curiously poked its head out of Su Muluo’s pocket, climbed onto the table, and circled the mirror.

 

Seeing it, Liu He’s heart skipped a beat, reminded of the fear she felt when that true dragon dominated her. Even her smile was a bit stiff. “Mr. Su, I’ll wait outside so as not to disturb you.”

 

Knowing she didn’t want to stay here, Su Muluo nodded gently, “Thank you.”

 

Liu He gave a forced smile and quickly ran out.

 

The room quieted down. Su Muluo looked at the Mirror of Origins and said to the little black dragon, “Shall I pick it up?”

 

The little black dragon responded with a chirp.

 

Su Muluo picked up the Mirror of Origins and saw his reflection in it—

 

In that instant, he felt as if he were falling from a great height into a bottomless pool. The icy water engulfed him, and for a moment, the world was filled with the sound of shattering water.

 

But soon, Su Muluo resurfaced, and the world became clear again. He opened his eyes to see a man dressed in black standing before him.

 

The man was tall and handsome with cold, dark golden eyes. His gaze held a storm-like intensity, commanding respect and awe.

 

Su Muluo was taken aback. The Mirror of Origins showed the past of someone important to him, which meant… the person in front of him was the human form of the little black dragon?

 

Hmm, quite good-looking.

 

As Su Muluo thought this, he suddenly saw the man walking toward him.

 

He knew the man wasn’t coming for him but instinctively stepped back, only to see the man walk through him to the other side—

 

Su Muluo’s gaze followed, his eyes narrowing slightly.

 

He saw another person.

 

It was a young man wearing a robe adorned with white feathers, with silvery hair that gleamed like frost and moonlight, partly tied up with a few strands framing his face.

 

The man’s face should have been extremely handsome, but Su Muluo couldn’t see it clearly. Everything around him was sharp and distinct, except for the young man’s face, which was shrouded in mist, making it blurry and indistinct.

 

Moreover, he felt the young man looked familiar as if he had seen him somewhere before… but he couldn’t recall where.

 

While Su Muluo was lost in thought, the man had already reached the young man, removed his outer robe, and dr4p3d it over him, gently clasping his slender fingers in his own. He softly called out, “Phoenix.”

 

Phoenix.

 

Hearing those words, Su Muluo felt a sharp drop in his heart, leaving a void.

 

The black-haired man called “Phoenix,” while the Phoenix had silvery hair, entirely different from his own. There was only one Phoenix in the world, so in the Mirror of Origins, in his dragon’s past… who was this Phoenix?

 

The man was already holding the young man’s hand, leading him away slowly. Su Muluo watched their intimate, almost lover-like backs, momentarily speechless.

 

He closed his eyes, thinking, I don’t want to be here.

 

—In the next second, the scene shattered, and he seemed to be swept away by a rapid current, returning to reality.

 

In reality, the little black dragon was holding Su Muluo’s hand, chirping happily when it saw its Phoenix open his eyes.

 

It was very curious about what its Phoenix would see in the Mirror of Origins. If it were truly its past, maybe it could even see itself transforming into a majestic dragon.

 

It was a bit excited at the thought.

 

However, when Su Muluo lowered his gaze and met its dark golden eyes, he remained silent for a moment.

 

Then he said, “I don’t want you anymore.”

 

The little black dragon was stunned, unable to react.

 

Su Muluo’s tone was somewhat aggrieved, “You have another lover outside, so I don’t want you anymore.”

 

The little black dragon: “…”

 

The little black dragon: “???”

---

T/N: Hello hello! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

 

Chapter 19: Transformation

 

Of course, Su Muluo couldn’t bear to leave the little black dragon hanging outside all night, so he brought it back inside after just a half minute.

 

The little black dragon lay listlessly in his palm, looking pitiful and innocent.

 

Su Muluo knew it was pretending and wasn’t moved. He said, “Next time you pluck my feather, I’ll pinch your tail.”

 

The little black dragon: “Aww!”

 

It really didn’t pluck the feather!

 

Su Muluo raised an eyebrow: “It couldn’t have fallen out on its own, right?”

 

The little black dragon glanced at him cautiously.

 

“Squeak.”

 

Indeed, it had.

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

Impossible!

 

He had just lost feathers yesterday!

 

Su Muluo felt frustrated. Previously, he only lost feathers once every hundred years, and only one or two at a time. Now, he had lost feathers two days in a row, four in total!

 

Unhappy, he rubbed the little black dragon’s belly.

 

The little black dragon clung to his finger, whining softly.

 

You blame me and tied me up.

 

“Tied you up because you took advantage of me,” Su Muluo said confidently. “Who told you to do that.”

 

However, the feather issue was troubling, and there were two strange things.

 

Why was he so tired today?

 

Why did he revert to his original form while sleeping?

 

Su Muluo thought for a while but couldn’t figure it out, so he poked the little black dragon, saying, “It’s all your fault.”

 

The little black dragon had been sleepy recently, and its scales itched. Su Muluo had suspected they were somehow linked, and it seemed to be true.

 

The little black dragon looked at him with a slightly resentful gaze but accepted the blame.

 

Su Muluo carefully put away the fallen feather, feeling a bit distressed, and placed it in a small pouch. “If I lose a feather every day, I’ll end up bald.”

 

The little black dragon nuzzled him comfortingly and let out a soft whimper.

 

Can we transform back?

 

Su Muluo met the little black dragon’s gaze, asking, “You just want to take advantage of me again?”

 

The little black dragon immediately shook its head.

 

Su Muluo suspiciously stared at it for a few seconds, thinking if the dragon dared to misbehave, he would peck it.

 

Then he transformed back to his original form.

 

A beautiful phoenix landed on the bed, gracefully folding his snowy white feathers, staring at the little black dragon with ruby-like eyes.

 

The little black dragon circled the phoenix once before diving into his soft feathers.

 

Phoenix: “?”

 

At first, he thought the little black dragon just liked his feathers, but he soon realized the dragon was pointing out a specific spot. Lowering his head, he preened that area.

 

In the next moment, the phoenix was pleasantly surprised to find fine down feathers growing under his long, snowy feathers.

 

It turned out he wasn’t going bald but was entering a molting period!

 

But why was he still molting at eighteen hundred years old?

 

While pleased, the phoenix was also puzzled, but since he wasn’t truly losing feathers and wouldn’t go bald, he happily transformed back to human form, kissed the little black dragon, and held it in his hand.

 

The little black dragon: “…”

 

The little black dragon immediately clung to Su Muluo’s hand, letting out a soft whimper.

 

It wanted another kiss!

 

“No,” Su Muluo said with a smile. “Just one.”

 

For someone who had been terrified about losing feathers yesterday, nothing was more delightful than seeing the fallen feathers grow back. Thus, even the little black dragon, who had taken advantage of him earlier, seemed much cuter. Su Muluo gave its little head a rub.

 

The little black dragon whimpered, still hoping for a kiss from its phoenix. Seeing that the phoenix was unwilling, it curled up in a small ball, swishing its tail in disappointment.

 

Well, one kiss was fine.

 

After all, having one now meant there would definitely be more in the future.

 

Su Muluo pulled the soft blanket over both of them, covering the little black dragon as well, and said with a smile, “Sleep.”

 

The rest of the night passed peacefully. When Su Muluo woke up the next day, he inexplicably received a large sum of money and a call from Liu He.

 

“Mr. Su, did you receive the gratitude money?”

 

“What gratitude money?” Su Muluo was slightly surprised, seeing the substantial increase in his bank account. “Why are you sending me money?”

 

Liu He laughed, “Because you helped us solve the recent incident, this is our token of appreciation.”

 

Su Muluo replied, “I don’t need it; I didn’t really do much.”

 

“No, if it weren’t for you, we wouldn’t have caught the culprit so quickly, and I wouldn’t have made it out of the red umbrella safely,” Liu He insisted. “If it were someone from the Bureau of Extraordinary Beings , they would receive a certain amount of remuneration after each case. Even though you haven’t joined the Bureau, you’ve helped us a lot. So, it’s only right and proper for us to show our gratitude.”

 

She spoke earnestly and straightforwardly, fearing that Su Muluo might refuse. Before he could say anything, she loudly shouted, “Thank you!” and then hung up.

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

It seemed the Bureau of Extraordinary Beings was determined to make him accept this money. Although they had previously agreed that he would assist them when needed, it was clear they didn’t want to owe him any favors before a real crisis arose.

 

That was fine too. Su Muluo looked at the transferred amount, realizing it was enough to cover at least half a year’s rent and expenses. He felt a bit emotional.

 

It seemed joining the Bureau of Extraordinary Beings was a quicker way to make money.

 

But on second thought, he still preferred running a café. It was relaxed and he could arrange his time as he pleased.

 

After all, he came to the human city to experience life. Making money was secondary. If it came down to it, he could easily sell a feather or two and never lack for money.

 

“Squeak.”

 

The little black dragon lazily sprawled on the pillow, yawning. Su Muluo scratched its chin, letting it curl around his wrist while he got up to wash up in the bathroom.

 

The café had been closed for the past couple of days. Today, there were several customers waiting, including one who wanted to add Su Muluo on WeChat. “Boss, I’ve come twice when you were closed. How about adding me on WeChat so you can notify me when you’re open?”

 

“I don’t have WeChat,” Su Muluo replied, even though he did have it. He declined to prevent the little black dragon from getting jealous. “I was busy the past few days. Barring any unforeseen events, the café will be open every day at ten.”

 

“Alright,” the customer didn’t push further and looked at the drink menu with anticipation. “I’ll have a special coffee, half sugar!”

 

Over time, Su Muluo’s café had gained some reputation. His special coffee tasted great, had a short treatment period (?), and worked quickly. It had already spread among some company colleagues, becoming a favorite among middle-aged office workers.

 

Business was good today, with seven or eight customers seated in the shop. Su Muluo busied himself serving coffee. After taking a seat, he pinched the little black dragon’s tiny horns, saying, “Grow up quickly and work for me.”

 

The little black dragon whimpered, suddenly feeling its scales itch again. It lay down in Su Muluo’s palm, asking for a scratch.

 

Su Muluo lightly scratched the little black dragon’s scales. Just then, another customer walked in. Su Muluo thought about putting the little black dragon in his pocket but, seeing how itchy it was, couldn’t bring himself to do it. He continued scratching it, letting the customer approach the counter.

 

The new customer was a young man in his early twenties, sporting a black earring and looking rather listless. His eyes lit up slightly upon seeing the little black dragon in Su Muluo’s hand. “How cute, what is that?”

 

The little black dragon had buried its head in Su Muluo’s palm, hiding its little horns and pretending to be a small snake.

 

While scratching the little black dragon, Su Muluo casually replied, “A toy loach.”

 

The little black dragon: “…”

 

“Isn’t it a toy snake?” The young man curiously leaned in, clearly very interested in the little black dragon. “Where can I buy one? I want one too.”

 

Su Muluo said, “I bought it years ago, can’t remember where.” He then smiled slightly and asked, “What would you like to drink?”

 

This was to change the subject. The young man, disappointed at not getting the answer he wanted, reverted to his previous listlessness and said, “Special coffee, please. I heard from friends that your special coffee is really good.”

 

He then took out some cash and handed it to Su Muluo.

 

Su Muluo accepted the cash. Nowadays, young people rarely used cash. But some non-human newcomers to the city without IDs had to use cash.

 

Su Muluo discreetly examined the young man, finding no trace of demonic aura, and said, “Please find a seat.”

 

The young man glanced at the little black dragon again, reluctantly left the counter, and chose a corner seat.

 

After the young man left, Su Muluo quietly pinched the little black dragon.

 

The little black dragon looked up at him, puzzled, “Aww?”

 

Su Muluo: “Look at you, causing trouble.”

 

The little black dragon: “???”

 

The little black dragon looked at its phoenix, utterly confused.

 

It was just an innocent little dragon!

 

And it had just been called a toy loach!

 

Su Muluo looked at the little black dragon’s bewildered reaction and smiled slightly. “Doesn’t matter, it’s your fault anyway.”

 

Despite his words, he continued scratching the little black dragon until it was no longer itchy, then made a special cup of coffee for the young man.

 

When the coffee was brought over, the young man looked at the exquisite cup before him without much expectation and took a sip.

 

The moment the coffee entered his mouth, his expression changed instantly.

 

It was delicious!

 

What kind of coffee was this? Why was it so good?!

 

The young man stared at the coffee in disbelief for a while, then carefully took another sip.

 

Still delicious!

 

“Boss!” he immediately said, “Can I have another cup?”

 

“Sorry,” Su Muluo replied, “You can only buy one cup per day.”

 

The young man was stunned and asked, “Even if I pay more?”

 

Su Muluo shook his head.

 

The young man, disappointed, touched the earring by his ear and dejectedly sat back down.

 

Su Muluo looked at the young man, feeling that something was off. He seemed different from ordinary people… but there was no demonic aura on him, so he wasn’t a demon.

 

However, as long as the other party didn’t cause trouble, Su Muluo wouldn’t interfere.

 

The day passed like this. At seven in the evening, Su Muluo closed the shop, opened a can of cat food for Qiansui, and returned to his rented apartment with the little black dragon.

 

In the afternoon, the little black dragon’s scales had been itchy for a long time, and it kept rubbing against Su Muluo’s hand. After Su Muluo finished scratching it, the little dragon got sleepy, curled up into a small ball, and fell asleep holding its own tail.

 

It slept from the afternoon until the evening. Su Muluo looked at the little black dragon in his hand, which he couldn’t wake up, and frowned.

 

What was going on?

 

At eight in the evening, Su Muluo finished his bath and gently placed the still-sleeping little black dragon on the pillow, lying down to watch it.

 

The little black dragon, already small, looked even smaller curled up asleep. Su Muluo gently stroked it. Perhaps sensing his presence in its sleep, the little black dragon let out a small hum, turned over, and softly hugged him.

 

A trace of a smile appeared in Su Muluo’s eyes, and his tense mood relaxed a bit. The little black dragon still responded to him in its dreams, which meant there should be nothing wrong.

 

After a while, Su Muluo seemed to catch the little black dragon’s sleepiness, and he started to feel drowsy, his eyes struggling to stay open.

 

Not wanting to fall asleep so soon, he watched over the little black dragon for a while longer. But as he grew sleepier, he eventually changed his position, cradled the little black dragon in his hand, and drifted off to sleep.

 

Because he was worried about the little black dragon, Su Muluo didn’t sleep well that night, dozing fitfully until the latter half of the night when an arm wrapped around his waist, gently holding him.

 

Half-asleep, Su Muluo felt himself nestled in a man’s arms, breathing in a familiar scent that made him feel very safe.

 

The autumn night was cold, but the man’s embrace was warm. Instinctively, Su Muluo burrowed into the embrace, like a cat seeking a cozy blanket.

 

But soon, he realized something was wrong.

 

Why was there someone in his bed?

 

Who was this person holding him?

 

Su Muluo woke up instantly and opened his eyes—

---

T/N: Hello hello! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

 

Chapter 18: Pluck My Feathers??

 

After a while, Hu Yan woke up. Following her, Liu He and Hu Xiao also gradually came to.

 

Hu Xiao opened her eyes somewhat confused, and saw Hu Yan slowly getting up from the ground not far away. Her gaze slightly focused, and she walked over.

 

“Little Yan.”

 

“…”

 

Hu Yan looked up. She had red fox ears and three fox tails. In this space, her face had returned to its original form, beautiful and striking.

 

“Sister,” Hu Yan chuckled when she saw Hu Xiao, “you’re here.”

 

A hint of joy flashed in Hu Xiao’s eyes. Just as she was about to say something, she saw the smile on Hu Yan’s face disappear, replaced by sharp hatred.

 

“You really are my good sister,” she said coldly, “just so eager to see me captured by them?”

 

Hu Xiao was stunned by these words, as if the coldness in Hu Yan’s eyes had stabbed her. Her always calm expression suddenly changed: “No!”

 

“I just want to talk to you, to persuade you to stop. Don’t continue anymore.” Her tone was a bit flustered, and she tried to grab Hu Yan’s hand, “It’s been two hundred years, why must you persist—”

 

Hu Yan dodged and sternly said, “Shut up!”

 

She stared intently at Hu Xiao, the fox ears on her head standing upright, revealing a fierce look.

 

“You betrayed me! I thought you were trustworthy, that’s why I told you how to get in here, but you kept betraying me again and again!” Hu Yan said, “Do you know, in a few days it will be Yang Lang’s two hundredth death anniversary. I’ve collected ninety-eight human skins, only one more, and I can revive him!”

 

“There is no method of resurrection! You’ve been deceived!” Hu Xiao took a step forward and tightly grabbed Hu Yan’s shoulders, “Leave with me! Little Yan, I can protect you—”

 

The last sentence was deliberately lowered, whispered into Hu Yan’s ear. Hu Yan coldly stared at her for a while, and then, in her anxious and pleading gaze, said:

 

“I don’t believe you.”

 

The light in Hu Xiao’s eyes suddenly went out.

 

At the same time, the red in the space started to surge. The ground turned into thick blood, and the sky slowly fell, connecting with the ground to form a sea of blood.

 

Liu He exclaimed, “Not good!”

 

Seeing the situation, she immediately wanted to rush up and stop it, but it was too late—Hu Yan was instantly swallowed by the blood sea, merging with the blood.

 

The blood sea churned, forming a grim face. At the same time, a giant hand emerged from the blood sea, grabbing Hu Xiao in its palm.

 

Hu Yan’s wanton laughter echoed through the space, and the grim blood face stared at Hu Xiao intently, saying, “Only one skin left! Sister, give me your skin, won’t you? I’m just one short!”

 

“You’re crazy! The dead can’t be revived, let alone that’s your sister!” Liu He said incredulously, “Hu Yan! If you dare to harm another person, you’ll be guilty beyond forgiveness!”

 

“What does it matter! I’ve already killed so many people, in the end, you’ll execute me anyway!” Hu Yan laughed wildly, then brought the blood face close to Hu Xiao, “Sister! Come stay with me! Didn’t you say you’d always be with me? Come stay with me!”

 

Liu He: “Don’t listen to her! Hu Xiao! Don’t let your sister take another life!”

 

“…” Hu Xiao seemed to not hear Liu He’s words at all. She stared at Hu Yan without blinking and softly said, “I know… I know… You want me to stay with you, right?”

 

“Of course!” Hu Yan’s face twisted almost beyond recognition, her laughter becoming more piercing, “Die with me! Go to hell with me, Sister!”

 

The blood sea churned wildly, the blood face split open halfway, and it opened its bloody maw to swallow Hu Xiao whole.

 

Liu He gritted her teeth. Hu Yan was a three-hundred-year-old fox demon, already considered powerful in the demon world. Outside, she might be able to fight her, but just now when the blood sea swallowed Hu Yan, Liu He suddenly felt her whole body stiffen, as if her power had been sealed—which meant, this red umbrella had completely merged with Hu Yan. Now, she was within Hu Yan, suppressed at every turn, and it was hard to exert her true strength.

 

Seeing that Hu Xiao was about to be devoured, Liu He, in desperation, thought of Su Muluo, who was still nearby. She suddenly realized that since entering here, Su Muluo had not spoken.

 

“Mr. Su, can you help her?”

 

Liu He looked to Su Muluo for help, but surprisingly, Su Muluo did not respond—he just quietly watched Hu Xiao over there, motionless.

 

Meanwhile, the blood face was already pressing down on Hu Xiao’s head, about to truly devour her, while she seemed unaware, still quietly looking at Hu Yan.

 

“Sister, Sister—” Hu Yan called out to Hu Xiao again and again, her voice sticky and malicious, “Stay with me, Sister—”

 

Thud.

 

The sound of a blade piercing flesh rang out, and Hu Yan’s movements stopped abruptly.

 

At this moment, Hu Xiao raised her head and reached out her hand, slowly touching Hu Yan’s face.

 

She gazed at her sister, her eyes extremely gentle.

 

But in her hand was a bone blade, stabbing into Hu Yan’s body.

 

“…”

 

Suddenly, Hu Yan seemed to wake up from a long dream, her eyes snapping open as she became fully conscious.

 

She exchanged glances with Hu Xiao, her eyes filled with shock, disbelief, and an indescribable sadness and despair.

 

In her sister’s hand was her bone blade.

 

Years ago, she and her sister had exchanged bone blades. These were lethal weapons made from their own bones and blood. If pierced by a bone blade, one’s cultivation would dissipate instantly, and their soul would be annihilated.

 

In their youth, they entrusted their lives to each other, but now, they were about to take each other’s lives.

 

“Didn’t you want me to stay with you?” Hu Xiao smiled gently, tears streaming down her cheeks. “Let’s go together.”

 

She pulled out the blood-stained bone blade and turned it on herself. At that moment, Hu Yan moved slightly, as if to stop her—but in the end, she retracted her hand.

 

The sea of blood stood still for a few seconds, then surged violently, with crimson blood spreading everywhere, swallowing the sisters in an instant.

 

Before being completely consumed, Hu Xiao reached out to hug Hu Yan. Their figures lingered in the sea of blood for only a second before turning into nothingness.

 

“……”

 

Liu He watched the figures disappear into the blood sea, unsure of what to think.

 

But soon, she felt the ground shaking beneath her and realized the sea of blood was about to engulf her too.

 

Damn! How could she escape from here?!

 

Liu He’s expression changed. It was Hu Xiao who brought her into this space, and now Hu Xiao was dead. Would she be trapped here forever?!

 

As Liu He anxiously pondered a solution, Su Muluo, who had remained still, gently raised his hand and pressed it on her shoulder.

 

The next second, the sea of blood collapsed, the sky tore open with massive cracks, and the scene before Liu He shifted abruptly, bringing her back to the interrogation room.

 

Clap!

 

The red umbrella fell to the ground, completely broken into several pieces. This time, it was no longer a weapon of a fox demon but a truly lifeless object.

 

“……”

 

Liu He looked at Su Muluo, taking a moment to regain her composure.

 

In those brief seconds, Mr. Su had directly broken the space and brought her out!

 

That’s incredible!

 

Liu He gasped inwardly, once again marveling at the power and hidden depths of the person before her.

 

However, she also had a question. After pondering for a while, she couldn’t help but ask, “Mr. Su, why didn’t you intervene earlier?”

 

Su Muluo was silent for a moment, then shook his head and said, “It was her choice.”

 

From the beginning, he knew Hu Xiao would choose this outcome. Because before they entered, he heard Hu Xiao say softly to him—

 

“Please don’t stop me.”

 

In Hu Xiao’s eyes, she couldn’t save those who had been killed by Hu Yan, nor could she save Hu Yan. She didn’t want to watch her sister continue to sink, nor did she want to see her sister leave her… So, she asked Su Muluo not to interfere with her choice, no matter what.

 

For her, the best outcome was to die with her sister, ending their century-long pain and struggle with her own hands.

 

“……” Liu He was stunned for a long time, her emotions fluctuating, and finally sighed, “As expected, I still don’t understand demons.”

 

……

 

With the deaths of Hu Xiao and Hu Yan, this matter came to an end. Over the past two hundred years, Hu Yan had killed nearly a hundred people and demons, but because of the closed-off information in the past, and her deliberate choice of solitary individuals with no family or friends, she had gone undetected.

 

As she killed more and more, she gradually fell into depravity, eventually becoming completely reckless and striking within the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Extraordinary Beings , finally meeting her deserved end.

 

Su Muluo left the Bureau of Extraordinary Beings  and returned to his rented apartment.

 

On the sofa, a small black dragon climbed into Su Muluo’s hand, rolled over, and exposed its soft belly.

 

“Squeak.”

 

Don’t be upset, let me cheer you up.

 

“I’m not upset,” Su Muluo said, rubbing its soft belly, “I just don’t know if what I did was right.” He paused slightly and added, “But at least this was the result Hu Xiao wanted.”

 

The little black dragon looked at its phoenix and gave a soft “awoo,” rubbing its tiny horns against him.

 

Su Muluo chuckled, stroked its little horns, and said, “Alright, this matter is over. Let’s rest for a day and go to the shop tomorrow.”

 

The little black dragon agreed, rolling around in his hand. After that, they stayed in the house for the entire day, not going out.

 

At eight in the evening, Su Muluo took a bath. Feeling a bit sleepy, he went to bed early with the little black dragon.

 

He felt more tired than usual today. Nestled in the soft blanket, he looked at the little black dragon beside his face and said, “Don’t take advantage of me.”

 

The little black dragon obediently squeaked and wagged its tail.

 

Su Muluo felt the dragon’s response was unreliable, but he was too sleepy to care. He patted the little black dragon’s head and closed his eyes, slowly falling asleep.

 

The little black dragon didn’t sleep. It kept its dark golden eyes on Su Muluo—until his breathing steadied and he was completely asleep. Then it instantly grew larger.

 

A black dragon lay on the bed, happily wrapping its body around Su Muluo’s slender waist, completely encircling its phoenix.

 

It liked the phoenix during the day and also at night when the phoenix just wanted to sleep and would let it coil around him softly.

 

And even if the phoenix found out in the morning, he wouldn’t really be angry.

 

The black dragon thought so, burying its head in Su Muluo’s shoulder, sniffing the scent it liked.

 

But as it nuzzled, the texture suddenly changed, from a human shoulder to fluffy feathers… The black dragon lifted its head, and its gaze froze.

 

In its embrace was now a phoenix.

 

Not a beautiful human form, but a phoenix with jade-like white feathers, gracefully slender and beautiful.

 

The black dragon was silent.

 

It completely didn’t understand why its phoenix had reverted to his original form while sleeping. Afraid to move, the dragon hesitated for a few seconds before slowly inching closer to the phoenix, tentatively touching him.

 

So soft.

 

The black dragon’s eyes lit up. Looking down at the phoenix’s beautiful feathers, it had the urge to dive in and rub its head against them.

 

However, the phoenix usually treasured his feathers. If the dragon messed them up, the phoenix would definitely get angry and might not let the dragon hug him in the future.

 

With this thought, the black dragon carefully placed its chin among the phoenix’s feathers, gently rubbing them.

 

And then, a feather fell out.

 

The black dragon: “…”

 

Staring in shock at the fallen feather, the black dragon thought, it didn’t even use any force!

 

Maybe it fell out on its own?

 

The black dragon looked at the feather, then at the phoenix, back at the feather, and again at the phoenix, trying to pick up the feather and hide it, hoping the phoenix wouldn’t see.

 

But, as luck would have it, just as the black dragon was about to tuck the feather under the pillow, the phoenix on the bed opened his eyes.

 

First, he glanced at the enlarged black dragon. Then he reverted to his human form and sat up, noticing the feather in the black dragon’s mouth.

 

Su Muluo: “…”

 

Su Muluo: “You plucked my feather??!”

 

The black dragon: “…”

 

The black dragon immediately shrank back to its small form, looking up at him obediently, letting out a soft whimper.

 

It didn’t pluck the feather. It was innocent.

 

“You actually plucked my feather!” Su Muluo, unconvinced by its innocent look, took back his feather. “I haven’t even really pinched your tail!”

 

Although he didn’t know why he had reverted to his original form while sleeping, the little black dragon must have thought his feathers were beautiful and cruelly plucked one!

 

Too much!

 

The phoenix was about to explode, glaring at the little black dragon for a few seconds before squinting slightly: “Did you also transform to take advantage of me earlier?”

 

The little black dragon: “…”

 

Oh no, if plucking the feather could be explained, the latter accusation was irrefutable.

 

And so, a minute later, a pitiful little black dragon was tied up and hung on the doorknob, swaying in the wind.

 

It looked very aggrieved.

---

T/N: Hello hello! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

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Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!