Category: Most Eligible Widow-Bachelor in the Six Realms (Page 8 of 10)

 Chapter 24

 

Si Lan couldn’t help but be on edge for Jiuying. In front of everyone, he had killed “Bian Rang.” With Bian Rang’s violent temperament, it was likely that he would have torn him apart.

 

However, in the illusion, Jiuying explained to Bian Rang that it was a fake Bian Rang who had thrust the sword. Astonishingly, Bian Rang believed him and didn’t question Jiuying’s actions anymore.

 

Yet, Bian Rang continued to smile, a smile that didn’t reach his eyes.

 

It sent shivers down one’s spine for no apparent reason.

 

Jiuying, with a stiff upper lip, followed Bian Rang, who broke through the illusion by wielding his sword. Then, he struck the enormous insect shell, creating a momentary crack, and a painful scream echoed from above.

 

Jiuying finally realized that this enormous shell was the true form of the illusion beast.

 

The illusion beast turned into a cloud of smoke, frantically trying to escape, but Bian Rang blocked its path. As Bian Rang was about to subdue the illusion beast, Jiuying suddenly cried out.

 

“Save me… Master…”

 

Without much thought, Bian Rang turned back to rescue Jiuying. But as he embraced Jiuying, something felt off. This wasn’t Jiuying; it was an illusion.

 

At this moment, a long sword thrust into Bian Rang’s abdomen from behind.

 

Bian Rang groaned and, on impulse, pulled the sword out from his front, then turned to see who had stabbed him. However, he entered into the next illusion.

 

Bian Rang found himself in a grand hall, with numerous wine bottles in front of him. He seemed to have consumed a significant amount of alcohol, reeking of it, and possibly it had affected his body as his abdomen throbbed with pain.

 

His memory had briefly disappeared, but he recalled that he had been drinking with Jiuying that night in the Ninth Heaven.

 

But where was Jiuying?

 

“Jiuying…” Bian Rang stood up and called out Jiuying’s name. His vision was blurred, but he faintly saw a dark figure approaching him. Unable to resist, he reached out and touched the figure’s cheek. “Where did you go?”

 

“Master, I’ve been here the whole time.” Jiuying hadn’t expected that when Bian Rang was trapped in the illusion, he would dream about the night they had spent drinking.

 

He wondered what was so memorable about that night?

 

The illusion magnified people’s desires, making them feel their innermost impulses more intensely.

 

Bian Rang moved closer to Jiuying, his fingers tracing Jiuying’s face, and he whispered, “Jiuying, I want…”

 

To have you.

 

Jiuying felt Bian Rang’s desire, and his body tensed instantly. Although they had never gone all the way, he knew that every time Bian Rang got close to him, his breath became fiery and unnerving.

 

But all Jiuying thought about was how to kill him.

 

Unfortunately, that one sword hadn’t killed him, just distracted him momentarily into the illusion.

 

However, it had provided enough time for the illusion beast to escape.

 

At this moment, Bian Rang was focused on touching Jiuying’s face, feeling every inch of him. His fingers moved lower, and his heart raced.

 

He had never imagined that, after ten thousand years of existence, he would experience such a rapid heartbeat. He was created by the Heavenly Dao to maintain the order in the Mortal Realm, a cold and desireless weapon.

 

Bian Rang had no plan, but his only thought was to possess Jiuying.

 

Jiuying was the first person he had genuinely liked in the Six Realms.

 

Jiuying held Bian Rang’s increasingly unrestrained hand. He thought that the illusion beast had fled far enough, so he decided to break the illusion. But when he looked into Bian Rang’s wet eyes, Jiuying suddenly changed his mind.

 

In recent days, the wild desire in Bian Rang’s heart had always revolved around him, making him restless and fearful.

 

Now, he wanted to take advantage of Bian Rang being trapped in the illusion to destroy this beast himself.

 

He suddenly pressed Bian Rang back onto the table, causing Bian Rang discomfort. Lips quivering, he said, “Master, you’ve always wanted to have me, haven’t you? Now, like this, you have me…” Jiuying was speaking near his ear, as if he had remembered something, and then he gritted his teeth. “I may not be as strong as you, but I am of the serpent clan.”

 

Bian Rang groaned, feeling the pain in his chest intensify, along with another place that hurt even more. It was as if something had been forcibly ripped open, and then sharp blades plunged into his organs.

 

He couldn’t move, couldn’t enjoy any love, only the frenzy of plunder.

 

“Pain…”

 

At this moment, Jiuying somewhat enjoyed the feeling of violence.

 

Corrupting the Son of the Heavenly Dao, who was supposed to be lofty and virtuous, was truly addictive.

 

He suddenly understood why Bian Rang liked watching beasts fight. It was because having absolute control over others’ life and death, easily determining the fate of others, was truly addictive.

 

When Jiuying pinned Bian Rang to the table, Siren had already covered Haowei’s eyes and cast a spell to bring Haowei out of the illusion.

 

He hadn’t expected to witness such an exciting scene…

 

This Jiuying, young in age but not in heart.

 

Thinking of Bian Rang’s agonizing cries, Siren’s heart trembled for a moment, and, at this moment, he unexpectedly felt a little sorry for this ruthless tyrant who killed without hesitation.

 

“I hope that when Bian Rang wakes up, he won’t kill Jiuying.” Siren murmured softly.

 

Although Bian Rang appeared to have an unusual tolerance and affection for Jiuying, there was no guarantee that this tyrant wouldn’t go mad and kill someone after being humiliated.

 

“Is it almost time for Jiuying to kill Bian Rang?” Siren lowered his gaze and looked at Haowei.

 

“Yes,” Haowei responded expressionlessly.

 

Haowei remembered reading ancient records about the gods when he was young. It mentioned the true forms of the Heavenly Dao’s three sons.

 

Junli was the spring breeze, Fanyu was the autumn rain, and Bian Rang was the winter frost.

 

The three of them had no gender distinctions.

 

Thinking of this, a bizarre thought quietly arose in Haowei’s mind.

As they were conversing, they noticed the illusion had disappeared. Jiuying carried the unconscious Bian Rang and used magic to leave.

 

The sword in Bian Rang’s body quickly healed on its own, but he remained in a state of unconsciousness. His delicate and beautiful face looked as if he had been crying, invoking a sense of pity.

 

Jiuying was about to leave after setting him down, but then he remembered something and cleaned up Bian Rang.

 

“I’ve been conscientious enough,” Jiuying said.

 

The next day, when Bian Rang woke up, he felt pain all over. On instinct, he lifted the bedsheet to see his condition, and his face changed as he realized what had happened in the illusion had flooded into his mind.

 

Jiuying’s dominance, Jiuying’s tyranny, Jiuying’s possession…

 

Each scene impacted his heart.

 

His face turned red and green with anger, and he clenched his fists.

 

How could Jiuying treat him like that in the illusion while he was injured? Just as he was about to get out of bed, a sharp pain shot up from his tailbone and exploded in his mind. He couldn’t help but groan.

 

This subordinate Jiuying, didn’t even use magic to heal him after humiliating him like this?

 

Did he dare act so freely just because he knew Bian Rang doted on him?

 

But Bian Rang didn’t know that Jiuying had deliberately made him feel pain to remember this humiliation.

 

Bian Rang used magic to heal his injuries, but his complexion remained pale. He had never been this disheveled in his entire life. He intended to go out and hold Jiuying accountable when he saw Jiuying entering with a bowl.

 

Jiuying seemed to think he had done nothing wrong. When he saw Bian Rang, his expression changed, “Master, you’re awake. I’ve made porridge for you to nourish your body.”

 

Bian Rang pushed the bowl away and said coldly, “Jiuying, your audacity grows day by day.”

 

“Master, didn’t you say… that you wanted me?” Jiuying also noticed his growing audacity and surprisingly felt no fear at the moment.

 

Bian Rang feigned a smile and said, “You know very well that’s not what I meant!”

 

“Master, I also want you very much.”

 

After Jiuying finished speaking, he put down the bowl, raised his head, and looked at Bian Rang with a determined gaze.

 

Bian Rang couldn’t find the words, but he met Jiuying’s gaze. However, his ears turned slightly red, showing a touch of self-mockery and sadness.

 

In the illusion, he remembered that when he was in too much pain, Jiuying had kissed him and looked at him with such eyes.

 

Bian Rang’s heart raced, but he pretended to be calm. He attempted to raise his hand to hit Jiuying, but Jiuying grabbed his hand and kissed his fingers one by one.

 

The gentle touch widened Bian Rang’s eyes, and Jiuying intentionally bit Bian Rang’s fingertip with force. Bian Rang couldn’t help but utter a sound, then realized the awkwardness and quickly closed his mouth.

 

Seeing Bian Rang’s reaction, Jiuying’s actions became less frantic than the day before.

 

“Jiuying, you…” Bian Rang’s words were interrupted by a hum.

 

After a long time, everything returned to calm.

 

Jiuying lay on the bed, looking up at the empty hall. He had a somewhat ridiculous thought: what if Bian Rang weren’t so cruel, just an ordinary monster? That would be nice.

 

“Jiuying…”

 

“Yes?”

 

“Never mind.”

 

“…”

 

“Jiuying… Jiuying…”

 

“I’m here, Master. What’s wrong?”

 

“Never mind.”

 

“…”

 

Jiuying ignored Bian Rang’s calls, pretending not to hear, and closed his eyes, soon falling asleep.

 

Bian Rang, on the other hand, couldn’t sleep. He lay there, looking at Jiuying, murmuring his name.

 

He didn’t know how much longer he could be with Jiuying like this. The Holy Punishment of the Heavenly Dao was slowly affecting his body… that’s why he fell into the illusion created by the Illusion Beast.

 

As for the person who had stabbed him from behind…

 

Bian Rang looked at Jiuying and smiled, a somewhat self-deprecating and melancholic smile.

 

He put on his robe, walked outside the hall, and gazed silently at the crescent moon in the sky.

 

The night in the Ninth Heaven was unusually cold, and solitude enveloped his figure tightly.

 

He felt like a person torn apart, out of place in this world.

 

Why did the Heavenly Dao create him, only to destroy him?

 

What was the purpose of his existence?

 

He didn’t know, but he did know that, in the midst of bloody slaughter, his blood would tremble, and his heart would beat, and the meaning of life seemed to be just that.

 

“Master…”

 

Suddenly, he heard Jiuying’s voice from behind.

 

Bian Rang turned around, thinking Jiuying had woken up, but he realized Jiuying was still dreaming.

 

Bian Rang lay down next to Jiuying and gently touched the smile at the corner of Jiuying’s mouth, which seemed to be a pleasant dream.

 

In this world, there would be moments when people called his name with a smile, not out of fear.

 

Since killing him was what he sought, he would fulfill Jiuying.

 

Perhaps the strong obsession before going to sleep had led Jiuying to dream. In the dream, Bian Rang was not the Son of the Heavenly Dao but merely his husband. They were living a peaceful and leisurely life in the Great Wilderness.

 

However, this beautiful dream was interrupted by a voice in his mind.

 

Jiuying abruptly woke up from his dream, seeing that Bian Rang was sleeping beside him. He held his breath and entered his spiritual consciousness, communicating with Xumo.

 

Siren and Haowei couldn’t hear Jiuying’s conversation in his spiritual consciousness. They only saw Jiuying conjure a black sword out of thin air. The sword had a cloud pattern on the blade, shimmering with a golden dark light, and it appeared extraordinarily sharp.

 

This sword was forged from the last bone joint of the Heavenly Dao’s little finger.

 

“This last bone joint may not be as powerful as the Heavenly Dao’s true form, so it can’t annihilate Bian Rang’s soul. But at least it can kill him.”

 

Jiuying breathed a sigh of relief when he heard Xumo’s words about not annihilating Bian Rang’s soul.

 

Actually, killing Bian Rang in this lifetime would be enough.

In the next life, Bian Rang might not have such a cruel temperament, and his cultivation might not be as fearsome.

 

“Hmm,” Jiuying replied.

 

Withdrawing from his spiritual consciousness, Jiuying saw Bian Rang tilting his head, as if he was about to wake up. Quickly, he concealed the sword he held in his hand.

 

Bian Rang didn’t wake up, just shifted into a different sleeping position.

 

However, Jiuying couldn’t sleep anymore and lay on the bed with a troubled expression.

 

Si Lan saw all of Jiuying’s anxiety and unease and felt a sense of pity for him. Young Jiuying, who had once detested the cruelty and violence of Bian Rang, had eventually become someone like Bian Rang, cruel and slaughtering the Snake Tribe.

 

In this world, people were still unaware that divine retribution had already descended. The Nine-Headed Snake Tribe hadn’t produced a newborn in ten years, and no pure, superior bloodline had been born within a hundred years. This wasn’t because Bian Rang had abducted the Snake Tribe’s strong men, preventing them from giving birth to pure bloodlines, but because of divine retribution.

 

After the Heavenly Dao created the human realm, it didn’t allow for too much power to exist. Even the Heavenly Dao’s three sons had to make way for humans, let alone the various demon races.

 

From this perspective, it seemed that ordinary humans were the true sons of the Heavenly Dao.

 

It was unclear if Jiuying hadn’t found the right opportunity or couldn’t bear to kill Bian Rang, but for the next month, Jiuying and Bian Rang spent peaceful and serene days together.

 

Perhaps even immortals couldn’t resist temptation. Bian Rang, who had indulged in worldly pleasures, found that such activities were more interesting than watching arena battles. He often pestered Jiuying.

 

The two spent day and night in their chambers, as if it were a never-ending carnival before doomsday.

 

The weakening of Bian Rang’s cultivation was noticed throughout Zhonghuang. His control over Zhonghuang was no longer as strong as before. The barriers he had established were no longer as secure, and the curses he had cast showed signs of loosening. All of these signs indicated that his body was in trouble.

 

During this time, Xumo approached Jiuying again, urging him to kill Bian Rang as soon as possible, to avoid more trouble.

 

So, when Jiuying accompanied Bian Rang to capture the fierce Yao in Manghuang, he had already secretly collaborated with the fierce Yao, setting a trap to lure Bian Rang in.

 

Bian Rang seemed oblivious and reassured Jiuying, “That fierce Yao is extremely brutal. Stay close to me and don’t wander.”

 

Jiuying smiled and asked, “Is there a Yao more brutal than you?”

 

Bian Rang cast a sidelong glance at him with an amused expression in his peach blossom eyes. Jiuying looked at him quietly, his expression hidden by tension. He couldn’t let Bian Rang sense his uncontrolled emotions.

 

Eventually, Bian Rang agreed to take Jiuying along. When they arrived in Manghuang, several eagle demons circled above. Their strange calls filled the air.

 

Bian Rang transformed his sword, and in an instant, sword energy cut through all the eagle demons.

 

“Bian Rang!”

 

An angry roar suddenly echoed from above. The white cloud in the sky changed shape and formed into a snow-white eagle demon, diving down from above, screeching as it tried to devour Bian Rang.

 

Bian Rang quickly pushed Jiuying away and used his sword to block the attack. The eagle demon had massive wings that could easily cause chaos. The dust filled the air, and everything around was engulfed in a sandstorm, obscuring their vision.

 

Bian Rang closed his eyes and relied on his senses to locate the white eagle demon. However, just as the attack was about to land, Jiuying’s cry for help echoed in the distance.

 

“Master… Master… Save me…”

 

Bian Rang suddenly opened his eyes and narrowly avoided the sandstorm. He realized that he wasn’t surrounded by sand; it was an illusion.

 

The illusion wasn’t created by the white eagle demon and Jiuying. It was set up beforehand, and perhaps Xumo was involved.

 

Maybe even Jiuying was part of it.

 

Jiuying stood in mid-air, silently watching as Bian Rang was trapped in the illusion.

 

Bian Rang, who cared so much about his appearance that he didn’t even want to be exposed to the sun, had a bleeding cut on his face.

 

Bleeding profusely, he continued to wield his sword, breaking through one illusion after another.

 

“Save me… Ah… Master…”

 

The false voice created by the illusion continued to torment Bian Rang, and he felt anxious. He couldn’t afford to take the risk. What if something really happened to Jiuying?

 

He didn’t hesitate to break through the illusion, even at the cost of losing three levels of cultivation. But as he escaped from the illusion, a longsword pierced his heart from behind.

 

In an instant, he felt a sharp pain in his heart, and when he tried to use his cultivation to heal, he found that he couldn’t channel his spiritual energy.

 

The sword that struck him was no ordinary weapon; it was the Heavenly Dao…

 

This time, he managed to turn around and saw the person who had stabbed him.

 

It was Jiuying.

 

He didn’t feel shock but smiled at Jiuying, “As long as you’re safe…”

 

Hearing these words, Jiuying couldn’t hold back his emotions any longer. He let go of Bian Rang, and with tears in his eyes, he said, “Why pretend, Bian Rang? You, a cruel and heartless person, don’t understand feelings at all!”

 

Bian Rang fell backward to the ground, his eyes gradually losing focus, his lips moved as if he wanted to say something, but he suddenly spat out blood.

 

Jiuying instinctively rushed to his side, wanting to say something but unable to find the words. He looked at his pale and transparent face, his eyes reddening.

 

He was going to die.

 

Everything was coming to an end.

 

Bian Rang reached out to him, his fingers covered in blood, holding a bloodstained bead in his palm.

 

“It…” Jiuying took the vermilion bead and said fiercely, “What are you pretending to be sentimental at this moment? I don’t want this broken bead!”

 

He extended his hand, squeezed the bead forcefully, and, in front of Bian Rang, crushed it into powder, scattering it on the ground.

 

“You… cough…”

 

Bian Rang, seeing the bead turning to dust, seemed unable to hold on any longer. He coughed up blood, and his body quickly turned transparent, his bones and flesh becoming transparent starlight.

 

It was only then that Jiuying realized something was wrong. It appeared that Bian Rang wasn’t just dying; his soul seemed to be disintegrating.

 

How could this happen? Weren’t the instructions clear that the bone would only kill him?

 

“Bian Rang… Why is it like this? I didn’t intend to kill you completely…” Jiuying had removed the seal and enchantment that Xumo placed on the short sword, hoping that Bian Rang’s death in this life would be a form of redemption, not to deny him rebirth.

 

“Bian Rang… Bian Rang…”

 

Bian Rang closed his eyes and was unable to speak. He used the last bit of his spiritual power to convey a message to Jiuying, “Jiuying, I’m fine. Even if my soul disintegrates, I will fall back into the cycle of reincarnation.”

 

“When the North River’s snow melts, I shall return.”

 

After saying these words, Bian Rang’s body completely turned to dust and vanished in the wind.

 

Jiuying stood there in shock, with an intact bead in his palm.

 

In the sky above Zhonghuang, all the invisible enchantments and curses placed by Bian Rang disappeared. Countless demons and creatures rejoiced, knowing that Bian Rang had died.

 

Zhonghuang was free!

 

They would no longer be controlled by the demon!

 

Si Lan finally understood why Jiuying helped Louyu; it was because they both killed the people who loved them but later realized they loved each other in this lifetime. Si Lan couldn’t help but sigh at the complexity of their situation.

 

Si Lan flew to Jiuying, intending to examine the blood bead, but Jiuying concealed it in his chest.

 

Behind them, Xumo appeared out of nowhere, his eyes gleaming with delight. “Jiuying, is he really dead?”

 

Jiuying, with a fake bloody bead, handed it to Xumo after ensuring it was without issue.

 

Xumo carefully inspected it and, upon confirming it was genuine, breathed a sigh of relief. “This child of Heaven’s Dao might have a unique rebirth. I thought he gave you a rebirth bead.”

 

Jiuying’s eyes twitched slightly. “A rebirth bead?”

 

“Yes, when an immortal is near death, they condense their soul into a rebirth bead. After a thousand years, the rebirth bead will reform and start a new cultivation.”

 

Jiuying’s chest heaved at these words but he said nothing more.

 

Si Lan was puzzled and asked, “A rebirth bead?”

 

“That’s not a rebirth bead,” said Haowei succinctly.

 

“What is it then?”

 

Just as Haowei was about to answer, the scene before them suddenly changed. The sky darkened abruptly, and rolling dark clouds filled the atmosphere, accompanied by mournful thunder. In the next instant, from the sky, enormous rocks fell, not as raindrops but as massive stones.

 

These stones seemed to have life and descended furiously, smashing into the ground. Those demons and creatures that couldn’t dodge in time let out desperate roars.

 

“Ah…”

 

Accompanying the falling stones was black rain. Wherever the raindrops landed, everything turned into black sludge.

 

“It’s divine retribution! This is divine retribution!”

 

“We killed the child of Heaven’s Dao! Heaven’s Dao is angry!”

 

“Help… Help… My child… Don’t harm my child!”

 

In an instant, the entire Zhonghuang was enveloped in a cacophony of despair.

 

Xumo and others hadn’t even had time to savor their victory before they were forced to immediately deploy their formations to withstand Heaven’s punishment.

 

“Return to the Nine-Headed Snake Tribe!”

 

“Leader, please save us!”

 

“Now Heaven’s Dao is punishing us! We’re all going to die!”

 

“Who killed the child of Heaven’s Dao?”

 

Xumo instinctively looked at Jiuying. Jiuying, his face pale, was about to explain but was interrupted by the cacophony of accusations.

 

“Jiuying, how could you have killed the child of Heaven’s Dao?”

 

“You completely disregarded the tribe by doing this!”

 

“Jiuying, return my child… Return my child…”

 

Jiuying never expected things to turn out this way. He thought that killing Bian Rang would make the world better, but instead, it had turned into a living hell.

 

He was being treated as the scapegoat and pushed forward to atone for the sins of others.

 

The same people who had sent him to kill Bian Rang were now avoiding his gaze and coldly telling him that if he could die to appease Heaven’s anger, they would accept it.

 

Jiuying’s heart was filled with a sense of irony and absurdity. He had led a miserable life, and the one person who genuinely loved him in this world, he had killed.

 

But he couldn’t die now. He had to resurrect Bian Rang.

 

Jiuying attempted to use his magic to escape, but before he could move, Xumo grabbed him.

 

“Jiuying, sacrifice yourself to save all of Zhonghuang.”

 

“Why is the responsibility of saving Zhonghuang falling on me again? What has Zhonghuang ever done for me? Let go…”

 

He roared and reverted to his true form, revealing his nine heads and eighteen eyes, glaring fiercely at the others.

 

“Sorry, Jiuying,” said Xumo.

Xumo and several elders joined forces, using a spell to pin Jiuying’s body in place.

 

“He made the soul of Heaven’s Dao’s child disintegrate. Killing him might not be enough to appease the wrath of Heaven’s Dao. We must cut off his nine heads, seal them in the Jiyin Bagua Formation, and offer them as a sacrifice to Heaven’s Dao. Only this way can Heaven’s Dao see our determination to make amends.”

 

“Very well.”

 

“Chief, please hurry. My child has only one head left!”

 

In the illusion, Jiuying gave up struggling, smiling as he watched his body being severed, and his physical form being annihilated by the formation. His heads were cut off and sealed within the Jiyin Bagua Formation.

 

However, when the last head was being sealed, Jiuying shouted to the sky, “If I break out of this seal, I will rebuild my body with the blood of the entire tribe.”

 

—

 

Long before the Nine-Headed Snake Tribe began cutting Jiuying’s body, Si Lan couldn’t bear to watch any longer and covered Haowei’s eyes.

 

The few lines in the history books concealed the countless lives and bloodshed. Witnessing this series of tragedies that occurred ten thousand years ago in person filled him with a different kind of emotion.

 

“People in Zhonghuang probably haven’t realized that the real culprit manipulating their fate and toying with their lives isn’t Bian Rang but Heaven’s Dao.”

 

To maintain the balance of the Six Realms, Heaven’s Dao had long wanted to weaken the major demons. Now that they had killed Bian Rang, it provided the perfect excuse for Heaven’s retribution.

 

In fact, even if they hadn’t killed Bian Rang, he wouldn’t have lived much longer.

 

The demise of Heaven’s Dao’s three sons was inevitable. Three years after the Truth Practice, another ten years, and Fanyu, another son of Heaven’s Dao, perished as he rebelled against Heaven’s Dao, leading to the disintegration of his soul.

 

Thirty years after the Truth Practice, Junli, the only son of Heaven’s Dao to die less tragically and be able to reincarnate, also met his fate.

 

As Si Lan watched Jiuying being killed, he noticed that Jiuying had hidden the bead in his mouth just before his head was sealed within the formation.

 

He was about to search for it when a shadow suddenly appeared out of thin air. The shadow walked straight to one of Jiuying’s severed heads and, with a gesture, made the red bead float in the air, passing right before Si Lan’s eyes.

 

Only up close did he see that the bead was indeed as Jiuying had described, translucent with specks of bloodstains. But what Jiuying hadn’t mentioned was that the blood-red gem also bore a cloud-like pattern on its surface.

 

The same cloud pattern adorned Si Lan’s own true form—his blood gem. However, the size of the true gem was much larger, and the small bloodstains had congregated at the lower right corner, resembling an embryo.

 

Thus, Si Lan had never connected the bead Jiuying was searching for with Xielin!

 

At this moment, the shadow turned around, revealing a refined and handsome face. Si Lan looked into his eyes and saw that they were blue.

 

These were the characteristic eyes of Fanyu, Heaven’s Dao’s son!

 

Si Lan was amazed and excited but tugged at Haowei’s sleeve, urging him to look at Fanyu.

 

Haowei, in turn, pulled at Si Lan’s sleeve and gestured for him to look behind.

 

Si Lan turned around and saw that someone had appeared behind them. This person was wearing a white robe and a hat.

 

Although their face was partially obscured by the hat’s brim, their graceful figure and unparalleled beauty couldn’t be hidden.

 

Si Lan’s heart suddenly raced, overwhelmed with excitement, to the point that he didn’t even notice how tightly he was gripping Haowei’s hand.

 

This person was Junli!

 

He was the idol Si Lan had admired for over a thousand years!

 

He had never imagined that one day he would cross ten thousand years and achieve success in his star-chasing journey.

 

“Bian Rang is really a fool,” Fanyu suddenly said coldly, reaching out to Si Lan and lifting the blood gem. “Look.”

 

Emerging from the shadows, Junli took off his hat.

 

As his face was fully revealed, Si Lan’s expression suddenly crumbled, a mix of surprise and horror. It wasn’t because Junli was ugly or strange; it was because Junli looked exactly like him!

---

T/N: Hey there! 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~

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 Chapter 23

 

Si Lan witnessed Bian Rang beating Jiuying to a pulp, covered in blood with a swollen face, almost unrecognizable as Jiuying. Si Lan couldn’t help but sigh, “It’s hard to believe that these two will have a romantic entanglement later.”

 

At this moment, Bian Rang’s attitude towards Jiuying was more like that of a pet owner, showing a hint of indulgence and fondness, but it was only because he still found amusement in it.

 

Haowei remained silent, his gaze fixed on Bian Rang’s face.

 

Bian Rang’s appearance bore some resemblance to the spirit with the jade pendant by Si Lan’s side.

 

Is this a mere coincidence, or is there some hidden connection?

 

In the dreamland, it was nighttime. Jiuying woke up from his bed, instinctively exclaiming, “It hurts…”

 

“Hmm? You feel the pain now? Why didn’t you say it hurt in the Beast Arena?” Bian Rang retorted.

 

Jiuying turned to see Bian Rang applying medicine to his injuries.

 

Perhaps in the middle of the night, candles were lit in the palace, and the dim light fell on Bian Rang’s silvery hair, giving it a gentle glow.

 

Bian Rang didn’t look at him, continuing to apply the medicine. “Eleven broken bones, twenty-six abrasions all over your body, yet you can endure it. So, endure a bit more.”

 

Saying this, Bian Rang suddenly targeted Jiuying’s coccyx, and Jiuying instantly winced in pain, his face turning pale, cold sweat rolling down.

 

It really hurt. The pain spread rapidly from his spine, spreading throughout his body.

 

But Jiuying didn’t want to lose face, so he clenched his teeth and didn’t utter a word of pain.

 

Seeing that Jiuying had buried his head in the covers, shaking and appearing as if he were crying, Bian Rang put aside his playful demeanor and continued applying the medicine.

 

When he reached Jiuying’s leg, Jiuying tightly closed his body, not allowing Bian Rang to touch him. “Don’t… don’t touch me…”

 

As he spoke, Jiuying’s voice sounded as if it had been soaked in water, all wet and muffled.

 

Seeing Jiuying’s unusual reaction, Bian Rang became even more curious and used force to restrain Jiuying, repositioning his body and gently parting his legs.

 

“You… let me go…” Jiuying’s voice quivered.

 

After seeing the scene in front of him, Bian Rang was momentarily stunned, then leaned in, raising his eyebrows curiously, “Are you blushing?”

 

Bian Rang knew that plants had their pollination period, animals had their mating periods, but he had never delved deep into the subject. Today, Jiuying piqued his interest, and he observed carefully.

 

Jiuying’s face turned crimson, feeling extremely embarrassed.

 

Why do men act this way? What’s there to see?

 

Bian Rang suddenly marveled, like a curious child, “Interesting…”

 

Jiuying buried his face even deeper, his entire body hidden beneath the covers, only his black hair visible.

 

“So, your coccyx is your sensitive spot…” Bian Rang seemed to have figured something out, nodding.

 

Jiuying clenched his teeth and said nothing. He didn’t understand why, when his coccyx was pinched just now, it had caused a strange reaction…

 

He was utterly embarrassed!

 

After Bian Rang finished treating Jiuying’s injuries, he left when he was summoned by a servant.

 

Jiuying was immobilized, unable to move. He lay on his back, gazing upwards, his eyes deep in thought as if pondering something.

 

“He has never been exposed to the sun today. He either sat in the sedan or created a barrier to shield himself from the sunlight. Could it be that he’s afraid of the sun?” Jiuying mumbled suddenly, his eyes gleaming with calculation.

 

He didn’t know what kind of medicine Bian Rang had used, but a few hours later, his broken bones and injuries were completely healed.

 

It wasn’t until the early hours of the next day that Bian Rang returned and pushed the door open.

A strong scent of blood mixed with the cold wind rushed towards Jiuying, who was lying on the bed. Jiuying woke up in an instant and vaguely saw a figure approaching him. He instinctively resisted, but the other person forcefully settled down next to him.

 

The person’s breathing was so shallow that it was almost inaudible.

 

Jiuying, illuminated by the faint light from the window, quietly observed the person next to him. Bian Rang had a beautiful face, but his nature was cold and ruthless, like a demon concealed behind a beautiful facade.

 

At this moment, Bian Rang suddenly reached out and embraced Jiuying, pressing his chin against Jiuying’s forehead. Jiuying’s expression instantly became embarrassed. “Wake up… Wake up… Hey…”

 

He called out several times, but the other person didn’t respond. Jiuying turned his head away and didn’t look at Bian Rang.

 

Before long, he fell back to sleep again.

 

Si Lan watched the two of them lying on the bed with a somewhat perplexed expression. He lowered his head to look at Haowei, who had a serious and mature demeanor, resembling a little adult.

 

Si Lan extended his hand to cover Haowei’s eyes. “No peeking.”

 

“…,” Haowei.

 

Perhaps it wasn’t necessary to open his eyes at all, because Si Lan had an inkling that what was happening between Bian Rang and Jiuying was becoming increasingly explicit.

 

In the afternoon, Jiuying woke up from his slumber, and for some reason, he immediately looked to the other side of the bed, but Bian Rang’s figure was not there.

 

Just as he wondered, he heard Bian Rang’s voice from in front.

 

“Since you’re awake, serve me by helping me change.”

 

Jiuying’s restraints had somehow been removed. Upon hearing this, he sat up on the bed and saw Bian Rang sitting in a chair across from him, supporting his head with one hand. His gaze was filled with a strange mixture of amusement and something else as he looked at Jiuying.

 

Jiuying straightened up and walked slowly to Bian Rang, reluctantly addressing him as “Master.”

 

“Yes, fetch the black outfit for me,” Bian Rang said.

 

“Alright.” Jiuying obediently complied, a departure from his usual demeanor, which seemed to make Bian Rang uncomfortable.

 

Bian Rang couldn’t help but scrutinize him, his gaze moving up and down Jiuying’s body before pausing in a particular area, as if he had remembered something, a mischievous curve forming on his lips.

 

Jiuying naturally noticed Bian Rang’s gaze and understood the meaning behind that sudden smirk. Remembering what happened last night, his face turned beet red. He lowered his head to fetch the outfit.

 

After Bian Rang had changed into the new clothes, he had Jiuying follow him to the main hall to meet the people from Zhonghuang Tribe.

 

Bian Rang explained that it was all because of Jiuying that he now had to deal with so many matters.

 

Jiuying furrowed his brow, not understanding how he had caused trouble for Bian Rang.

 

“I present the Zhonghuang Tribe to Your Majesty,” an attendant announced, and the leader of the Zhonghuang Tribe walked into the hall, bowing before Bian Rang.

 

“Greetings, Your Majesty.”

 

“Well, what brings you here?” Bian Rang spoke but didn’t look at the tribe leader. He kept his head turned, his gaze falling on Jiuying’s face.

 

Jiuying straightened his posture, pretending not to have seen Bian Rang’s gaze.

 

“Your Majesty, we fear that you have a heavy workload and are exhausted, so we specially selected ten handsome young men from our tribe to present to you.”

 

As he spoke, the tribe leader gestured to the handsome young men who had entered the hall. They knelt gracefully and greeted Bian Rang.

 

“Greetings, Your Majesty.”

 

Jiuying’s face stiffened as he saw these young men. It seemed he now understood what Bian Rang had said earlier — he had caused trouble by being selected by Bian Rang. His selection had apparently inspired others in the tribe to send handsome young men as gifts.

 

Moreover, these young men’s attire bore a striking resemblance to Jiuying’s.

 

Bian Rang raised an eyebrow. “Look up.”

 

The ten young men heard the command and raised their heads, each with a different expression—some were shy, some seductive, all of them handsome with graceful figures.

 

Bian Rang shook his head, mocking, “Not good-looking, go back.”

 

The tribe leader heard this and hurriedly bowed, taking the ten handsome young men away.

 

Later, other tribal leaders also brought young men with them, attempting to cater to Bian Rang’s preferences. However, Bian Rang dismissed them all as not good-looking.

 

Jiuying couldn’t fathom Bian Rang’s taste. These young men were clearly good-looking, but Bian Rang seemed to enjoy treating them as a jest.

 

Pitifully, these people thought it would please the emperor.

 

“I find it very boring,” Bian Rang suddenly spoke. “What if we throw this group of handsome young men into the Beast Arena?”

 

As he said the last sentence, he looked at Jiuying.

 

Jiuying knew that this person wasn’t seeking his opinion at all. Whether he said yes or no, it wouldn’t stop Bian Rang from carrying out his intentions.

Unless… they found something that would make Bian Rang more interested.

 

Jiuying’s mind raced. “Master, whenever I find things boring, I enjoy playing stone chess with my companions.”

 

“Stone chess?” Bian Rang asked.

 

Jiuying saw that Bian Rang was intrigued and quickly explained the rules of the game to him.

 

Bian Rang didn’t pay much attention to the rules but asked, “Do you want to play stone chess with me?”

 

“Yes.” Jiuying was a bit nervous, unsure if he could persuade Bian Rang.

 

Bian Rang suddenly smiled, “Alright.”

 

Jiuying breathed a sigh of relief in his heart. He hadn’t expected to convince Bian Rang so easily. If he had failed, it might have been another day of bloodshed in the Beast Arena.

 

Jiuying swiftly carved the game pieces using magic. The chess pieces represented twelve different animals, with interactions of birth and domination, in black and white.

 

Jiuying had Bian Rang play as the black side, while he took the white side. He planned to use the game to show Bian Rang his prowess, but to his surprise, Bian Rang, who was playing stone chess for the first time, defeated Jiuying without mercy.

 

Jiuying even suspected that Bian Rang was cheating!

 

However, Jiuying soon realized that Bian Rang was not only faster and more powerful than others but also incredibly sharp-minded.

 

Jiuying felt somewhat discouraged but continued playing with Bian Rang, afraid that Bian Rang would find it “boring.”

 

They played until evening, and the sunlight was fading. Jiuying felt a sense of urgency. He needed to act quickly.

 

When Bian Rang was engrossed in the game and not paying attention, Jiuying discreetly cast a spell. He created a black mist that transformed into a wild beast and suddenly grabbed Jiuying, pulling him outside.

 

“Help me…”

 

Jiuying pretended to be caught by the monster and grabbed Bian Rang’s clothes. He pulled Bian Rang into the sunlight and watched closely as if expecting him to be harmed by it. However, Bian Rang, standing under the sunlight, showed no signs of injury.

 

How could this be?

 

Wasn’t Bian Rang supposed to be afraid of sunlight?

 

Bian Rang smashed the black mist with a palm, caught Jiuying in his arms, and asked, “Are you okay?”

 

“I’m… I’m fine,” Jiuying replied after recovering from his shock.

 

“Why did a demon suddenly appear in the Ninefold Heaven?” Bian Rang pretended not to have noticed that the creature’s aura was identical to Jiuying’s. He looked at Jiuying with concern, stroking his face. “Let me check if you’re injured anywhere.”

 

“I’m fine, Master. But aren’t you afraid of the sunlight?”

 

Bian Rang seemed to hesitate for a moment and then said, “Oh, I’m quite afraid of sunlight. It makes me look… ugly.”

 

Jiuying was left speechless.

 

He hadn’t expected such a reason. Bian Rang was possibly the only person in the Central Wilderness who would go to great lengths to avoid sunlight due to the fear of looking ugly.

 

Bian Rang pinched Jiuying’s waist and teasingly said, “Let me see if you got hurt by the monster.”

 

“I’m not injured,” Jiuying replied, but Bian Rang insisted on checking.

 

Just as Jiuying was about to resist, Bian Rang used magic to create a barrier, blocking out the sunlight completely.

 

“Because sunlight makes me look…” Bian Rang paused for effect and noticed Jiuying leaning in to listen, so he continued slowly, “…ugly.”

 

Jiuying didn’t expect that to be the reason. He looked at Bian Rang in disbelief.

 

This was probably the only man in the Central Wilderness who would go to such lengths to avoid sunlight due to fear of looking ugly.

 

Bian Rang held Jiuying’s waist with a playful grin and said, “Did the monster hurt you here?”

 

Jiuying blushed and bit his lower lip in embarrassment.

 

Bian Rang gently touched the protruding muscles and teased, “Is this where the monster pinched you?”

 

Jiuying remained silent.

 

Seeing Jiuying’s distressed expression, Bian Rang suddenly smiled. In the dim light, his eyes seemed gentle and carried a hint of affection, catching Jiuying off guard.

 

Jiuying tightly clenched his fingers, as if trying to prevent himself from falling into the depths of emotions. He was on the verge of losing control, and his nails almost pierced his palm, keeping him composed.

 

Meanwhile, Si Lan was dumbfounded. He had previously thought that Bian Rang had no understanding of love, finding it strange that two people who loved each other were together. However, at this moment, he realized that Bian Rang was quite skilled in teasing.

 

Although Jiuying hated him, Jiuying was still very young and had a rather immature mentality. Compared to Bian Rang, who had lived for over a hundred thousand years as the Son of Heaven, Jiuying would probably not be able to withstand it for long.

 

Realizing this, Si Lan looked at Haowei, who was standing nearby. As one of the members of the “older bull, younger grass” club, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of inferiority.

 

It seemed that he wasn’t good at sweet talk and flirting.

 

But that was fine. The little white dragon was still young.

 

Dealing with such children was relatively easy.

 

With this thought, Si Lan took out a colorful piece of candy from his storage pouch. It was the candy he had confiscated from Xie Li the other day, which he was now using to curry favor.

 

“Here, have some candy,” Si Lan smiled and handed the candy to Haowei.

 

Haowei’s face twitched slightly, but Si Lan probably thought he was just shy. Si Lan peeled off a candy and handed it to Haowei, and when his fingertip touched Haowei’s lips, they turned slightly red. He instinctively turned his head, avoiding Si Lan’s gaze.

 

“You shouldn’t eat too much candy; it can cause cavities. But I can give you three candies every day from now on,” Si Lan added, “I only give Xie Li two candies a day, so you’ll get an extra one.”

 

Haowei remained silent.

 

Was he comparing him to that little amulet spirit?

 

A joke.

 

Would he care about two or three candies?

 

In the illusion, Bian Rang continued to playfully tease Jiuying, knowing that he was just a means of relieving boredom for Bian Rang, no different from the warriors in the Beast Arena.

 

During this time, Tribe Leader Xu Mo visited Jiuying and inquired about his situation in the Ninefold Heaven.

Jiuying was speaking with Tribe Leader Xumo at close range for the first time, and he dared not look Xumo directly in the eyes.

 

Xumo was the spiritual leader of the Nine-Headed Serpent Clan, and all nine-headed serpents admired him, including Jiuying. However, in the past, Jiuying could only stand quietly in the corner, watching Xumo.

 

Jiuying told Xumo everything that had happened with Bian Rang. After listening, Xumo furrowed his brows and fell into silence for a moment before saying, “Jiuying, he likes you very much.”

 

Jiuying clicked his tongue, not understanding how Xumo could sense that Bian Rang had feelings for him. That man was incapable of feeling emotions.

 

Xumo suddenly stepped closer, coming near Jiuying, and reached out to push aside the stray hair on Jiuying’s forehead. He leaned in close to Jiuying’s ear and whispered, “The fate of our people, and even the fate of the Central Wilderness, rests in your hands. So, you must find a way to earn his trust and extract from him the method to kill him.”

 

Jiuying nodded vaguely, his ears turning red, realizing that they were too close. He tried to step back, but Xumo held him close.

 

“When necessary, be willing to sacrifice yourself.”

 

Jiuying opened his mouth but didn’t say anything.

 

Xumo inquired, “Do you understand?”

 

“Understand,” Jiuying replied in a soft voice, almost like a mosquito’s buzz.

 

Xumo smiled, patted Jiuying’s head, and spoke like an elder, “I’ve noticed your exceptional qualities for a long time. I never imagined that now, the hope of the entire Central Wilderness rests in your hands.”

 

Jiuying suddenly felt a heavy sense of responsibility. He expressed his sincere determination to Xumo, promising to find a way to kill Bian Rang as soon as possible.

 

Satisfied, Xumo left.

 

Jiuying watched Xumo’s departure with admiration.

 

Si Lan overheard their conversation and shook his head.

 

Xumo was using Jiuying as a pawn and had even employed some seduction tactics to make Jiuying willingly commit to killing Bian Rang. It was clear that Jiuying was easily manipulated, a trait that went back to ancient times.

 

The final fate of Jiuying and Bian Rang had already been written in the ancient texts.

 

The outcome of the binding, the Central Wilderness, and the thirst for killing.

 

Jiuying, bound, fights back, ultimately succumbs, and dies.

 

Si Lan couldn’t help but wonder about the significance of the blood bead that Bian Rang had given Jiuying just before his death.

 

Looking at it now, he couldn’t find any traces of a blood bead on Bian Rang’s person.

 

Suddenly, Haowei, who had been silent, spoke up. “With the passage of a year, the heavenly retribution will arrive. Jiuying won’t need to act; Bian Rang won’t survive for much longer.”

 

“So, you mean that Bian Rang’s body should be deteriorating by now?” Si Lan contemplated.

 

“Yes.”

 

Si Lan sighed, feeling somewhat profound. Most people believed it was a survival-of-the-fittest world, but they didn’t realize that being too weak or too strong was unacceptable to the natural order.

 

“I never thought you, this kid, would be so knowledgeable.” Si Lan lowered his head and looked at Haowei meaningfully.

 

Haowei had a stern expression. “I’ve just read many books.”

 

Si Lan smiled and, having heard Jiuying’s words, walked back to the main hall, tugging at Haowei’s clothes, and followed inside.

 

At that moment, Bian Rang lay in a rocking chair, his snowy white robe hanging languidly, supported by a single arm as he watched the scenes outside the Ninefold Heaven through the eaves.

 

Jiuying approached him, and Bian Rang suddenly reached out, gripping Jiuying’s wrist, pulling him to his side.

 

In the next instant, Bian Rang’s lips met the corner of Jiuying’s mouth.

 

Jiuying’s eyes widened, but he lost focus and saw only an expanse of white. He couldn’t see anything clearly, and his heart raced, losing its direction.

 

After a while, Bian Rang released Jiuying’s neck, but Jiuying’s body couldn’t support itself, and he collapsed into Bian Rang’s arms.

 

Bian Rang chuckled quietly but held Jiuying’s waist securely.

 

Jiuying tried to get up, but Bian Rang held him firmly.

 

“Don’t move.”

 

Remembering Xumo’s advice, Jiuying endured and heard Bian Rang’s breath, shallow and rhythmic, in his ear.

 

After a while, Bian Rang asked, “What is this?”

 

Jiuying’s face reddened, thinking that Bian Rang was intentionally humiliating him. He bit his lip and said, “I don’t know.”

 

“Heh…” Bian Rang suddenly laughed. “Does this mean it can create offspring?”

 

Jiuying remained silent.

 

“I wonder what children you would give me. If they have nine heads, would they be as voracious as you?” Bian Rang pulled his hand away and looked into the distance. “If they have nine heads, would they eat just as much as you do?”

 

Jiuying felt embarrassed and clutched his hands, asking, “Do I eat a lot?”

 

“Yeah, you’ve almost finished all the elixirs and fruits of my Ninefold Heaven.”

 

Jiuying…

 

He had been consuming those elixirs and fruits to rapidly increase his cultivation, aiming to kill Bian Rang as soon as possible. Plus, those elixirs and fruits were starting to go bad, so not consuming them would be a waste.

 

Jiuying didn’t want to continue talking to Bian Rang and pushed him away. He got up from the rocking chair, but his legs felt weak, and he almost stumbled to the ground.

 

Behind him, he heard a muffled laugh from Bian Rang.

 

Jiuying’s cheeks burned, and his frustration surged. This person was truly evil!

 

He didn’t want to stay near him for another moment. He needed to find a way to kill him as soon as possible.

 

Jiuying didn’t know if Bian Rang drank alcohol, but in his tribe, some men would become more talkative after drinking, so it might be worth a try with Bian Rang.

 

So, in the evening, Jiuying brought wine

 

 and some snacks to meet Bian Rang.

 

However, Bian Rang was not in the main hall. Jiuying sat in a chair and waited for him. The hall was empty, tall and imposing, cold and devoid of any human presence. Had Bian Rang been living here alone all these years?

 

If he lived here by himself, he would undoubtedly go mad.

 

No wonder Bian Rang’s character had become so malicious.

 

Jiuying let his mind wander, leaning back in the chair and falling asleep. At some point, the door to the hall opened, and Bian Rang returned, covered in the scent of blood.

 

Under the moonlight, with his face obscured by shadows, Bian Rang stood by the door, his white clothes stained with blood, looking like a demon from hell.

Jiuying had grown accustomed to this routine and quickly fetched a clean set of black clothing for Bian Rang.

 

After each time Bian Rang wore white clothes to commit murder, he would return and change into black attire.

 

Once Jiuying helped him change, he didn’t know how to broach the subject but was relieved when Bian Rang raised the issue first.

 

“Why does the room smell like alcohol?”

 

“Oh… it’s… yes…”

 

“Do you want to drink?” Bian Rang arched an eyebrow, seemingly a bit surprised.

 

Jiuying nodded.

 

Seeing the wine jug and some snacks nearby, Bian Rang’s lips curved slightly. “I’ll accompany you for a drink, then.”

 

Jiuying felt a rush of joy but kept his expression unchanged. He took the initiative to pour the wine for Bian Rang.

 

With his nine heads, Jiuying could pretend to drink a lot and secretly expel the wine from another head. So, he pretended to consume a lot of alcohol, acted drunk, and demanded to drink more with Bian Rang, continuously refilling his cup.

 

Bian Rang smiled throughout the charade and allowed Jiuying to have his fun. After a while, Bian Rang appeared somewhat tipsy and slumped over the table.

 

Jiuying took the opportunity to ask him several questions. Realizing that Bian Rang was genuinely intoxicated and incoherent, he got straight to the point, “My Lord, what are you most afraid of?”

 

Bian Rang let out a mumbled reply, and the scent of alcohol filled the air. He said slowly, “I’m most afraid… of the sun.”

 

Jiuying…

 

Jiuying sighed and then asked, “Are you afraid of the Tai Xu Divine Sword?”

 

The Tai Xu Divine Sword was the first divine weapon, feared by all in the Six Realms.

 

Bian Rang shook his head. “I don’t fear something like that. I… I fear the Heavenly Dao…”

 

Jiuying clenched his head; who wouldn’t fear the Heavenly Dao?

 

Realizing he couldn’t get any more information, Jiuying stopped asking questions. Instead, he transmitted this information to Xumo, sharing what he had learned from Bian Rang.

 

Finally, Jiuying furrowed his brow and asked, “Do we really have no way to kill him?”

 

Xumo remained silent for a moment, his brow furrowed in thought. “No, he actually mentioned a way to kill him.”

 

“What method?”

 

“He fears the Heavenly Dao.”

 

“But he’s the son of the Heavenly Dao, and the Heavenly Dao would never kill him.”

 

“The Heavenly Dao won’t kill him, but we can use the Heavenly Dao to kill him. It’s rumored that when the Heavenly Dao initially established the Divine Realm, it wasn’t satisfied with the first group of deities. Just a touch from the Heavenly Dao made them vanish into thin air. Later, when the Heavenly Dao reestablished the Divine Realm and adopted the name ‘You,’ it ruled over the deities directly, leading them to govern the cycles of day and night and the reincarnation process. After this, ‘You’ eventually met his demise through tribulation. At that time, ‘You’ left behind a segment of his finger bone in the Divine Realm.”

 

Jiuying was amazed. “A finger bone segment… could it contain the essence of the Heavenly Dao itself? Could obtaining that segment of finger bone allow us to kill him?”

 

“It’s worth trying.”

 

“Good.”

 

Inside the barrier, Si Lan witnessed this scene and frowned. He realized that Jiuying planned to kill Bian Rang using a segment of the Heavenly Dao’s finger bone. The same principle could potentially be applied to eliminate a Divine Sovereign of the same level as the Divine Emperor.

 

For some reason, he lightly curled his fingers, his expression growing darker.

 

Beside him, Haowei noticed the change in his aura and couldn’t help but ponder the relationship between the Heavenly Realm and the Demonic Realm. The two realms had signed a millennium-long truce agreement, and that treaty seemed to have only three years left before expiring.

 

Si Lan’s strong desire to find a way to kill Bian Rang raised the question: was he preparing to kill him?

 

He had just given Jiuying candy not long ago, and now, he seemed to be contemplating Bian Rang’s death. It was clear that Si Lan was no less insane than Bian Rang.

 

As Haowei thought more about it, he felt increasingly stifled, and the candy he hadn’t finished eating suddenly tasted sour and bitter.

 

Following Xumo’s instructions, Jiuying continued to stay close to Bian Rang, pleasing him in various ways. Bian Rang was delighted with his company and even took Jiuying to hunt Illusion Beasts at the Camel Demon Mountain.

 

Under the Camel Demon Mountain, there lay a giant shell where insects, ants, snakes, and rats constantly entered and exited. It seemed like the owner of this shell had long since perished.

 

Bian Rang stood lightly outside the shell, and the moment he appeared, the insects, ants, snakes, and rats sensed something and fled in panic.

 

“My Lord, is the Illusion Beast here?” Jiuying asked.

 

“Yes.”

 

Without further words, Bian Rang entered the shell, and a strong, unpleasant odor assaulted Jiuying as he followed inside. The surroundings changed abruptly, and they found themselves in a vast, snowy white world. Jiuying looked around curiously, but when he turned back to find Bian Rang, he had disappeared.

 

Jiuying remained silent and continued walking forward. When he reached the end, he suddenly saw a shadow of Bian Rang.

 

At this moment, the real Bian Rang was lying injured on the ground, unable to move. His silver hair hung loose, failing to conceal the fear and despair in his eyes.

 

“Don’t… don’t kill me…”

 

“My Lord…”

 

Jiuying tentatively called his name, but something seemed to have triggered Bian Rang, who kept shaking his head and begging for mercy.

 

On the ground lay a sword, its tip stained with blood, dripping slowly.

 

In an instant, Jiuying’s mind was filled with the brutal and bloody scenes of the

 

 Gladiator Arena. He remembered his brother’s gruesome death, the deaths of his fellow clan members, and the deaths of so many people in the Central Wilderness…

 

Intense hatred welled up within him. He picked up the sword and slowly approached Bian Rang. Astonishingly fast and simple, he had killed Bian Rang.

 

He didn’t hesitate, stabbing the sword into Bian Rang. Bian Rang let out a painful scream, writhing on the ground, and then closed his eyes.

 

Jiuying gazed at Bian Rang’s lifeless body, still holding the sword, unmoving for a long time.

 

However, when he finally came to his senses and turned around, he found the real Bian Rang standing behind him, staring at him without blinking.

 

Jiuying was frozen for a moment, then turned his head and saw the Bian Rang he had just killed, now dissolving into mist and gradually disappearing.

 

“Tsk, so the thing you most wanted to do in your heart was to kill me, huh? I worried about you and immediately entered your dream to save you.”

---

T/N: Hey there! 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!

 Chapter 22

 

The blood-red hue in Jiuying’s eyes gradually faded, and the snake patterns receded inch by inch. He suddenly found it difficult to exert any force, grasping the Snake Mother’s arm.

 

Incredulously, he looked at his own arm and attempted to lift it, but there seemed to be another force preventing him. “How can this be?”

 

In the blink of an eye, Si Lan had reasserted control over his body, while Jiuying’s spiritual body was imprisoned in a dark world, or more precisely, a pitch-black cage.

 

Si Lan had earlier cast a formation in his own body, using his own physical form as a prison to confine Jiuying’s spiritual body.

 

Jiuying roared in madness, “Si Lan… how can you do this? Haven’t you lost all your powers?”

 

“Oh? Are you referring to the water Quze gave me to drink?” Si Lan casually looked at Quze, who was getting up from the ground, wiping the blood from the corner of his mouth, and standing respectfully by Si Lan’s side.

 

Si Lan appeared surprised, “Quze, why are you coughing up blood?”

 

Quze cast a sidelong glance at Haowei while maintaining a stoic expression, “Your Highness, it’s nothing.”

 

Haowei, observing Quze’s respectful demeanor standing by Si Lan’s side, briefly paused, then recalled Si Lan’s earlier “careless” actions, and suddenly seemed to understand something.

 

A simmering anger welled up within him.

 

He had been worrying for nothing.

 

He had even contemplated depleting his own cultivation to expel Jiuying’s spiritual body from Si Lan’s flesh.

 

Similarly, Jiuying now felt a growing anger at being manipulated. “Quze, have you betrayed me?!”

 

Jiuying and Si Lan now shared the same body, with Jiuying not in control but able to see, hear, and speak through Si Lan’s body.

 

Quze, with an impassive expression, replied, “I haven’t betrayed you because I was never your ally from the beginning.”

 

Jiuying appeared to find this difficult to accept, and he exclaimed, “Not my ally? Didn’t I let you witness how he severed your arm? Why are you working for such a person?”

 

“He is my Master. Even if he wanted my life, I would give it to him,” Quze replied with unwavering determination.

 

Si Lan nodded, appreciating his disciple’s loyalty. Seemingly with the intention of hitting where it hurt most, he added, “In fact, after you first found Quze, he reported everything you said to me.”

 

Jiuying remained silent, his anger simmering in the darkness, unwilling to accept that he had been played for a fool for so long. “If you knew everything from the beginning, why did you let yourself be deceived into coming here?”

 

“Because it’s not that you wanted to see me; it’s that I had something to discuss with you.”

 

“What do you want to discuss with me?”

 

“I want to know how you killed Bian Rang.”

 

Si Lan’s question made Haowei glance at him, perplexed by why Si Lan would ask Jiuying such a thing. 

 

Bian Rang was the Son of the Heavenly Dao, transcending the control of the Six Realms and the Five Elements. Conventional methods couldn’t kill him. Currently, the only individuals on par with the Son of the Heavenly Dao were at the level of the Divine Emperors. There were only two individuals in the Six Realms at that level: the God of Joy and Haowei himself.

 

Haowei narrowed his eyes, looking at Si Lan, not understanding why he was inquiring about this from Jiuying.

 

Jiuying sneered, holding a grudge against Quze’s betrayal, and said, “Fine, you want to know about this? Then kill your disciple, and I’ll tell you.”

 

Si Lan raised an eyebrow, “Really?”

 

“Absolutely!”

 

Si Lan drew his whip and stood in front of Quze.

 

Even though Quze heard Si Lan and Jiuying’s conversation, his expression remained unchanged, and he gazed at Si Lan with unwavering determination, as if dying for Si Lan would be an honor.

 

Si Lan raised his whip, which instantly transformed into a sword, and the blue sword light struck directly at Quze.

 

However, just as the sword reached above Quze’s head, Si Lan abruptly changed its direction, striking the Golden Jade Immortal Box.

 

“No…,” Jiuying cried out.

 

Seeing this, Jiuying’s heart shattered. The Golden Jade Immortal Box was split by the immense sword energy, and the cracks slowly expanded until it burst open with a resounding bang.

 

Jiuying’s heart shattered along with it.

 

The Golden Jade Immortal Box shattered into countless pieces, revealing the Vermilion Jade Bead inside, which emitted a dim red glow in the darkness.

 

Si Lan walked slowly toward the Vermilion Jade Bead, closely examining it.

 

Jiuying took this opportunity to also scrutinize the Vermilion Jade Bead.

 

This bead was translucent, with a pure and vibrant color, making it one of the finest Vermilion Jade Beads. However, no matter how fine it was, it was still just a Vermilion Jade Bead, with limited use for cultivators. For immortals and demons, it had even less significance.

 

Si Lan couldn’t comprehend why Jiuying had gone through so much trouble for such a bead.

 

Jiuying’s gaze was fixed on the bead, and the longer he looked, the more he felt that something was amiss.

 

This bead wasn’t what he had been searching for.

Even after ten thousand years and being sealed for so long, he wouldn’t forget what that thing looked like.

 

When his spiritual body first awakened from the seal, he couldn’t move and had to slowly practice to recover. In the meantime, he overheard a conversation between a former leader and disciples of the Xuanling Sect, learning that the Golden Jade Immortal Box was sealed here, and the red bead inside was a rare treasure that could ensure the Xuanling Sect’s eternal prosperity.

 

He thought that this bead was the same thing that was sealed with him!

 

Later, when his spiritual body could move, he traversed the ten thousand illusory scenes of the Xinyin Bagua Formation, only to find the Golden Jade Immortal Box.

 

He discovered that the first leader had placed a sealing formation outside the box, and the incantation to unlock the formation was known only to the first leader, making it impossible to open the Golden Jade Immortal Box through the formation.

 

The only way was to forcefully open it with a weapon, and the material of the Golden Jade Immortal Box was made from the jade of the Kunlun Mountains, exceptionally tough and requiring a divine weapon to split it open.

 

This was one of the reasons he targeted Si Lan.

 

The Xuanxin Whip in Si Lan’s hand was one of the three ancient divine weapons, and perhaps it could be used to open the box.

 

However, he had now discovered that the object he had been pursuing was not what he was actually looking for!

 

He had wasted so much effort, killed so many charming snakes, and proceeded with extreme caution, but everything had gone completely awry!

 

Jiuying couldn’t bear it and, with his spiritual body, launched a violent attack on the formation. He seemed intent on breaking through, fish struggling to escape the net.

 

The tremendous impact surged toward the formation, then rebounded onto Jiuying’s spiritual body. Cracks began to appear on Jiuying’s spiritual body, and it was on the verge of shattering.

 

Si Lan was also affected, feeling a sweet, metallic taste in his throat as he coughed up blood.

 

If Jiuying were to self-destruct within him, he would also be seriously harmed.

 

Si Lan quickly set the Vermilion Jade Bead down, closed his eyes, and chanted a spell with his hands together in front of his chest. However, Jiuying’s relentless attacks on the formation made it impossible for him to concentrate. His internal organs trembled, and the metallic taste in his mouth grew stronger.

 

He coughed up more blood.

 

“Your Highness!”

 

Si Lan dared not open his eyes, continuing to apply the seal. Just when he was getting anxious, he suddenly felt a surge of spiritual power entering his body, blocking Jiuying’s attacks. Taking this opportunity, he added another layer of seals within himself, preventing Jiuying from moving and even from self-destructing.

 

“Let me go… If you don’t kill me, I’ll kill you…” Jiuying’s eyes were bloodshot, his fangs exposed as he threatened.

 

Si Lan opened his eyes, wiped the blood from his lips, and helplessly said, “What are you looking for? Let’s make a deal. I can help you find it, and you can tell me how you killed Bian Rang.”

 

Hearing this, Jiuying’s emotions slowly calmed down, but he still couldn’t easily trust Si Lan, the shadow of being deceived and manipulated still hanging over him.

 

“How can I trust you?”

 

“Whether you trust me or not doesn’t matter. But if you really want to find that thing, you can only rely on me. After all, besides me, you won’t find a more suitable candidate.”

 

Jiuying fell into silence, contemplating Si Lan’s words.

 

Currently, Si Lan was indeed the most suitable person he had encountered. If Si Lan was willing to help, there might be a chance to locate that thing.

 

“Fine.”

 

“What exactly are you looking for?”

 

“It’s a red blood bead, about the size of a thumb. The bead is translucent, but there are tiny traces of blood within.”

 

Si Lan had never seen this thing before, and hearing Jiuying’s description, he was still somewhat unclear.

 

“Who gave it to you?”

 

“It was Bian Rang,” Jiuying said with a suddenly lowered voice.

 

Si Lan was taken aback. He had put in so much effort to find something that Bian Rang had given to him?

 

And he considered that thing more important than life itself?

 

Previously, he had thought that the Golden Jade Immortal Box might contain Bian Rang’s body, so he had been extremely cautious, not daring to attack, and waited for Jiuying to enter his body to reveal the box before he would seize Jiuying.

 

Countless thoughts swirled in Si Lan’s mind upon hearing Jiuying’s words. “Did Bian Rang say what that thing is?”

 

Jiuying didn’t answer and fell into a deep silence, likely thinking about something unpleasant.

 

Unable to hear his response, Si Lan resorted to creating ink and fabric out of thin air, drawing the blood bead on the fabric.

 

“Is it like this?”

 

“Yeah, that’s about right. Just make the traces of blood a little heavier.”

 

Si Lan modified the drawing according to the request and casually remarked, “You have quite a memory. After ten thousand years, you still remember what that bead looked like.”

 

Jiuying fell silent again, an unusual silence.

 

How could he ever forget?

 

In the final scene, the person’s face turned pale as he handed the bead to him.

 

That person said, even if his soul scattered, he couldn’t kill him; he would be reborn and fall into reincarnation.

 

“When the North River has turned into snow, I will return.”

 

If the North River had already turned into snow, did that mean he had already been reborn multiple times?

 

Certainly, his life had its ups and downs, with love and hatred, but one thing was missing – him.

 

“The Six Realms are vast, and this bead from ten thousand years ago is probably not easy to find,” Jiuying hoarsely said, his eyes blazing red as blood. He didn’t want to wait any longer, not for a moment.

 

That bead was the only thing left by Bian Rang, the only hope of his resurrection, even if it meant paying with his life. He wanted to see it one more time.

 

“I can send you back to the ancient era to find the person who took the bead from me.”

 

Si Lan was surprised by these words.

Sending back to ancient times, is this the Return Spell?

 

The Purification Spell derives from the Return Spell. Those who enter the spell are unable to influence the past, but there’s a difference. The Purification Spell can only view scenes of the deceased’s final year of life, while the Return Spell is not limited, transcending the cycle of reincarnation, allowing one to return to any point in the past.

 

Si Lan furrowed his brow. “With your current cultivation, can you perform the Return Spell? If something goes wrong along the way, and you get stuck between the Six Realms of reincarnation or forced to stay in ancient times permanently, that would be a disaster.”

 

Jiuying half comforted and half tempted, “I can do it. If you want to know how I killed Bian Rang, then you should see for yourself.”

 

Si Lan sensed that if he refused, Jiuying would never reveal the method of killing Bian Rang. He remained silent for a while before speaking, “Very well, but I have one more condition. You will teach me the art of the Return Spell.”

 

Before the creation of the mortal world by the Heavenly Way, there were only the realms of gods, demons, and the underworld. During that time, various powers converged, and spells and artifacts emerged. The entire world continued to thrive in a bloody and violent environment, but it also developed rapidly in its strength.

 

Later, when the Heavenly Way created the mortal world, in order to balance the rules, it didn’t hesitate to let the three sons of the Heavenly Way who controlled the realms fall. It also brought the Heavenly Punishment to the five realms, severely weakening the powerful figures in those realms.

 

During this period, many spells and artifacts disappeared into the vast river of history. So today, anyone who finds an ancient artifact can easily dominate the Six Realms.

 

Jiuying didn’t expect Si Lan to be not only cunning but also greedy, even eyeing his spell.

 

Biting his lip, Jiuying didn’t want to agree, but then he thought that he was on the verge of death, and keeping these secrets had no use anymore. He tried to convince himself in his mind and reluctantly said, “Fine.”

 

Si Lan smirked, not confirming or denying.

 

Jiuying closed his eyes and chanted a spell, his voice echoing in the cave, low and rich, yet mysteriously eerie.

 

Under Si Lan’s feet, a star-and-moon-shaped formation appeared, radiating a golden light that slowly enveloped Si Lan. Then, Si Lan’s form vanished from within the formation, placed in the midst of the Six Realms of reincarnation.

 

On the path of reincarnation, 333 gears whirled rapidly, and Jiuying’s voice seemed to cross through the cycles and resound in his ears.

 

“After you find the blood bead’s whereabouts, taking a drop of your own blood can break the spell, allowing you to return to the real world.”

 

“Alright.”

 

In the blink of an eye, Si Lan found himself in an unfamiliar world, his body rapidly descending until he landed on the ground. He had just steadied himself when he saw a white figure descending from the sky. He instinctively caught the other person.

 

“Little one?” Si Lan looked at the white, delicate child in his arms, a mix of surprise and shock in his voice. “How did you come here too?”

 

Haowei stabilized himself, his expression calm. “I don’t know.”

 

Si Lan sighed internally. Something must have gone wrong with the spell. How could the little one be transported here as well? He could only softly advise, “Follow me and don’t wander off.”

 

“Okay,” Haowei replied.

 

Si Lan assessed his surroundings, both of them enclosed by a brownish barrier, cutting them off from the world.

 

The world before them was a vast desert, with a pale, desolate sky that lacked white clouds and birds. The horizon merged with the sky, appearing as an endless purgatory, filled with the aura of death and despair.

 

—

 

Jiuying’s face shifted slightly after casting the Return Spell. “It seems like there’s been a slight error.”

 

Hearing this, Quze, without a second word, lifted his sword coldly toward Jiuying. “What kind of error?”

 

“The timing of the transportation was off, making him return too early.”

 

Perhaps it was due to his lack of practice with the spell over the past ten thousand years, which led to mistakes, or it could be because his lifespan was nearing its end.

 

Seeing Quze’s worried expression, Jiuying bit his lip. “Don’t worry, he’ll be fine. Even if I have to hold on with my last breath, I’ll bring him back.”

 

Quze put his sword away, standing before the formation, guarding it.

 

Somehow, he suddenly recalled the Crown Prince of the Heavenly Realm. He realized that the Little Crown Prince had disappeared!

 

Had the Little Crown Prince left the Xinyin Bagua Formation, or had he followed Si Lan into ancient times?

 

Quze’s gaze fell on the formation, his brow furrowing.

 

—

 

Si Lan and Haowei were still observing their surroundings. It was a desolate place with no signs of life, not even a creature that would breathe. Why did Jiuying send them here?

 

Suddenly, the ground shook violently, and a cloud of dust billowed in front, revealing the vague but enormous heads of giant snakes.

 

No, it was a group of giant heads!

 

Si Lan quickly grabbed Haowei and leaped into the air. Through the swirling dust, he saw that these gigantic heads belonged to nine-headed serpents.

 

Although there were only two serpent bodies, they had a total of eighteen heads. As they rushed forward, swaying their tails, their presence was majestic and their momentum was overwhelming, like a group of mythical creatures on the move.

 

These two nine-headed serpents were conversing as they advanced.

 

“Is it those ten warriors we sent last time? Did Bian Rang find them unsatisfactory?”

 

“It seems so. I wonder whose children have had their luck run out this time…”

 

Si Lan, upon hearing this, held Haowei’s hand and followed these two nine-headed serpents.

 

The two serpents continued to run forward until they stopped by an oasis.

 

The two serpents immediately transformed into human forms and entered their group.

 

At this moment, the leader of the nine-headed serpents sat on a high seat, resting his chin on one hand, looking solemn. The other serpents gathered around, discussing in low voices.

 

“We offered ten warriors as prey for him last time, and he still wants to punish us!”

 

“I think it’s not just because of what happened with Folded Rain last time. He seems to be deliberately causing trouble for us.”

 

“No, even without Folded Rain, he would still find faults. I heard that he gouged out a person’s eyes just because a member of the Nine-Tailed Fox Clan glanced at him!”

 

The crowd fell into silence upon hearing this.

 

After a while, someone spoke, “Are we to be perpetually oppressed by him like this?”

 

“Hush…”

 

Just as the young nine-headed serpent finished speaking, others covered their mouth.

 

The leader sitting in the high seat opened his eyes, his red pupils containing a sinister glint as if dipped in blood. He stood up slowly, his warning stern and clear, “Do not speak rashly.”

 

As soon as these words were spoken, a powerful aura attacked the group of nine-headed serpents from the sky, accurately targeting the ones who had complained earlier. The aura passed across their necks, instantly severing eight of their heads, blood gushing from their necks.

 

The nine-headed serpents who had lost their heads were forced to reveal their original forms, struggling on the ground with only one head left, calling out in pain, gasping for breath.

 

Seeing this scene, the other serpents were trembling with fear and dared not reach out to help. They didn’t even dare to look.

 

Si Lan, witnessing this, instinctively covered the eyes of the little white dragon.

 

It was just as recorded in the books: when Bian Rang ruled Xinyin, he was bloodthirsty and ruthless, killing innocent people indiscriminately. It was no wonder that Jiuying eventually killed him.

 

However, Si Lan couldn’t tell who among the group was Jiuying.

 

Si Lan tried to find Jiuying among the crowd but couldn’t distinguish him among those who had taken human forms.

 

At this moment, Si Lan saw eight heavenly horses pulling a massive carriage approaching from a distance. The carriage landed steadily on the high platform, and the eight heavenly horses transformed into statues surrounding the carriage.

 

A breeze, mixed with the scent of blood, rustled the white curtains on the carriage. Although the people inside were obscured, their voices were clear and chilling.

 

“This is the fate of speaking out.”

 

The crowd of nine-headed serpents dared not speak out against their anger and resentment.

 

The gaze from inside the curtain fell directly on the leader as they sat with a high vantage point, watching the young nine-headed serpent who had been scared into tears. The voice from inside the curtain, smirking but not quite, said, “Chumo, do you know what happens to those who defy me?”

 

The leader knelt on the ground, “This child speaks carelessly. It’s my fault as the leader for not teaching him well. If you wish to punish, then punish me.” After speaking, Chumo spat out a mouthful of blood, an injury sustained earlier when he blocked the aura for the young nine-headed serpent.

 

The person behind the curtain made a disdainful laugh.

 

This laugh caused the hatred and anger in the hearts of the nine-headed serpents to skyrocket. However, in the face of absolute power, they had no choice but to endure.

 

An aura, sharp as a silver sword, flew out from the curtain and directly struck Chumo. His body was sent backwards, crashing into a tree, and he coughed up blood.

 

But Chumo immediately knelt on the ground and thanked, “Thank you for sparing him, my lord.”

 

“These warriors have been chosen, have they?”

 

Chumo appeared embarrassed, clenching his fists. “They have been chosen.”

 

Those selected warriors would be offered as prey for Bian Rang, hunted down like wild beasts, and forced to fight other tribes in a battle arena for Bian Rang’s amusement.

 

Generally, warriors sent there rarely survived. The one who did often suffered severe psychological trauma and became abnormal.

 

“Summon them to me, let me see.”

 

Bian Rang spoke casually, as if selecting goods, looking down from a height, showing no concern for the lives of others.

 

Chumo called for ten warriors and stood in front of the carriage. “My lord, please have a look.”

 

These ten warriors were tall, strong, and shirtless, revealing their well-built chests and muscular arms.

 

A slender, delicate hand reached out from the carriage and parted the curtain. Everyone immediately lowered their heads, too afraid to look at the person inside the carriage.

 

Si Lan shifted with Haowei in an attempt to catch a glimpse of Bian Rang, but before he could clearly see his face, the curtain was drawn again.

 

Bian Rang’s cold voice sounded, “I hope they can last a few more days, so I don’t get bored.”

 

After these words, Bian Rang left, and Chumo spoke again, “My lord, the Nine-Headed Serpent Clan has also prepared ten beautiful women for you.”

 

These words caused silence to fall upon the Nine-Headed Serpent Clan.

 

This lord had never had a companion in his entire existence of a hundred thousand years.

 

Once, the Nine-Tailed Fox Clan had tried to seduce Bian Rang with their most beautiful woman, but he had brutally gouged out her eyes.

 

From then on, the realm of Xinhuang dared not use seductive tactics with Bian Rang.

 

This time, Chumo was also taking a gamble, risking it all.

 

Fortunately, the voice of Bian Rang from behind the curtain was lazy. “Bring them up.”

 

Chumo breathed a sigh of relief and immediately had ten carefully selected beautiful women brought forward. These ten beauties were petite, graceful, and each had their unique charms.

 

However, the gaze from behind the curtain swept over the faces of these women without stopping.

 

“Are these the beauties of the Nine-Headed Serpent Clan?” Bian Rang suddenly lifted the curtain and walked out.

 

The Nine-Headed Serpents were frightened and kept their heads low. They didn’t dare to look at Bian Rang’s face.

 

They didn’t know what Bian Rang was going to do, and could only catch a glimpse of him moving through the crowd, stopping at a corner.

 

Bian Rang gently lifted the chin of a black-clad young man, forcing him to raise his head.

 

“I see, this one is the most beautiful.”

 

The Nine-Headed Serpents were surprised when they heard this. They all looked toward the corner where the chosen person was. The black-clad young man’s face gradually turned red, and he tried to push Bian Rang’s hand away but was held firmly.

 

“I want him,” Bian Rang said without allowing any objections.

 

Chumo hesitated and asked, “My lord, he is…”

 

“What’s wrong, isn’t he beautiful?” Bian Rang squinted, a faint smile playing on his lips.

 

Chumo held back what he wanted to say, lowered his head, and replied, “Beautiful.” However, no matter how beautiful, the black-clad young man was still a man.

 

Chumo and the other Nine-Headed Serpents were filled with doubts, but they didn’t dare to say anything. When the black-clad young man was being led onto the carriage by Bian Rang, he seemed about to resist, but upon meeting Chumo’s gaze, he bit his lip and withdrew his hand.

 

The eight heavenly horses reverted to their original forms, neighing as they soared into the air, and the carriage departed.

 

Si Lan and Haowei followed closely behind the carriage, listening to Bian Rang’s indifferent voice from inside.

 

“Tell me, your name.”

 

“Jiuying.”

 

Si Lan and Haowei were taken aback. They never expected that the elegant and handsome young man in black would be Jiuying!

 

How could he be so different from the two serpents?

 

Indeed, time was a brutal thing, especially for someone who had been gone for over a hundred thousand years.

 

The carriage ascended to the Ninth Heaven, and before them lay a world of floating white clouds, celestial cranes singing, and splendid palaces and pavilions. The beauty was beyond words.

 

This was a world vastly different from the environment the Nine-Headed Serpent Clan inhabited.

 

The carriage stopped on the peak of a celestial mountain. Servants brought a sedan chair, and one of them knelt beside it, supporting it with both hands.

 

Bian Rang lifted the curtain, and perhaps due to the sudden exposure to the blinding light, he squinted his eyes. A faint, almost imperceptible smile appeared on his lips. He stepped onto the back of the servant to get out of the carriage and sat in the sedan chair.

 

Si Lan finally got a clear look at Bian Rang’s face. He was exactly as described in the books: silver hair, an androgynous beauty, elegant and charming, but with a sickly, ruthless, and obsessive aura.

 

He was like a contradictory figure, possessing the most feminine and beautiful face in the world, yet also the most cruel and bloodthirsty nature.

 

Jiuying also got off the carriage and followed the sedan chair. His face seemed to flush with nervousness, his cheeks slightly red, and his bright eyes shone like water.

 

At this moment, Jiuying, in terms of human age, was probably around sixteen or seventeen. He had a tall and mature figure, but his face still retained a touch of innocence.

 

Si Lan carefully observed Jiuying, nodding slightly, and said, “Bian Rang has quite an eye. I didn’t expect Jiuying to have such a handsome appearance.”

 

After these words, Si Lan felt Haowei’s presence suddenly darken, and he instinctively added, “But I don’t like snakes. They’re cold and uncomfortable to hold.”

 

Haowei turned his head away, a cold expression on his face as he followed the sedan chair. “Jiuying’s Time Return spell seems to have a problem, as it sent us back to when he first met Bian Rang. We don’t know how long it is until Bian Rang is killed. After all, one year inside the spell is only one day in the real world.”

 

Si Lan blinked, “If I remember correctly, the Nine-Headed Serpent Clan faced divine punishment three years into the pilgrimage, and they offered beautiful people to Bian Rang after one year.”

 

Haowei paused, looking at Si Lan in surprise, “I didn’t expect you to have such a good memory.”

 

Si Lan noticed Haowei’s gaze and was about to look at him, but Haowei quickly shifted his eyes away.

 

The two fell into a moment of silence. After a while, Si Lan suddenly got excited, “Since we’ve returned to ancient times, does that mean I can see my idol?”

 

Haowei furrowed his brows slightly, not understanding the term “idol,” but he could sense that Si Lan had a strong admiration for someone.

 

“Bian Rang is the son of the heavens, so he must have met Junli. As long as we follow him, I can see Junli too!”

 

Si Lan’s eyes sparkled, and Junli, who ruled the central heavens, governed with a perfect balance of gentle and firm methods and treated his people with humility and kindness. He was the only Son of the Heavens who was deeply loved by the people and naturally passed away in the Six Realms.

 

In his youth, Si Lan had read many books written by Junli and was drawn to his philosophy and unique actions that combined benevolence, kindness, and a touch of eccentricity.

 

In a way, Junli was Si Lan’s mentor in cultivation and understanding of the world.

 

Haowei, hearing this, smirked.

 

So Si Lan’s idol was Junli. Well, he quite liked Junli too. After all, the other two Sons of the Heavens were crazier.

 

“How boring,” suddenly came Bian Rang’s voice from the sedan chair. After a pause, his voice continued, “Go to the beast arena.”

 

“Yes, my lord.”

 

The servants changed direction and carried the sedan chair toward the beast arena.

 

Jiuying didn’t know what he should do, so he followed along. Along the way, Bian Rang didn’t speak to him again after asking his name.

 

Before they reached the beast arena, they heard a roar from inside. It was the roar of a lion, hoarse and filled with despair, sending shivers down their spines.

 

The air around was filled with a strong scent of blood, a mixture of the blood of countless ethnic warriors.

 

It wasn’t a city of corpses, yet it was filled with bones.

 

Jiuying’s eyes couldn’t help but turn red. His brother… also died here.

 

Bian Rang got off the sedan chair and glanced at Jiuying, but Jiuying didn’t avoid Bian Rang’s gaze. With red eyes, he stared directly at him.

 

Bian Rang looked slightly startled, then smiled but didn’t say anything. He sat on the high platform and lightly tapped the armrest of his chair. Jiuying was pushed over by a servant and obediently stood next to the chair.

 

In the arena, a massive male lion lay motionless in a pool of blood. Several servants worked together to drag the lion’s corpse away.

 

The despairing roar from earlier was the lion’s final struggle before death.

 

The one who defeated the lion was an earth dragon.

 

When Si Lan saw the earth dragon, he couldn’t help but glance at Haowei.

 

In ancient times, dragons weren’t classified into different ranks. At that time, earth dragons, celestial dragons, and true dragons were all part of the same lineage, so this earth dragon could be considered one of Haowei’s ancestors.

 

Haowei’s expression remained unchanged, and he gazed calmly at the arena.

 

Si Lan hadn’t expected this child to be delicate in temperament but fearless. If it were any other child, they would have probably been scared and sought refuge in his embrace.

 

After some thought, for the sake of the child’s healthy growth, Si Lan gently pulled Haowei into his arms and covered Haowei’s eyes with his hand.

 

“These scenes are too bloody for a child to watch.”

 

Haowei remained silent.

 

Haowei’s face appeared somewhat speechless, but he didn’t push away Si Lan’s hand. He even sensed a faint fragrance from Si Lan’s hand, which he found pleasant and didn’t want to let go of.

 

He used magic to see the scene in the arena through Si Lan’s hand.

 

After the lion was removed, a nine-headed snake was introduced into the arena.

 

On the high platform, Jiuying saw the nine-headed snake and became visibly excited. His eyebrows furrowed, and he stared intently without blinking.

 

Bian Rang casually asked a servant beside him, “How many mythical beasts has this earth dragon defeated?”

 

The servant replied, “To answer, my lord, the earth dragon has defeated six so far.”

 

Bian Rang clicked his tongue and lazily leaned back in his chair. “If it defeats this last one, it will be a seven-match winning streak. Impressive for an earth dragon.”

 

Perhaps recalling something, Bian Rang added with a smile, “Next time, let’s capture a true dragon and see how it fares.”

 

Jiuying glared at Bian Rang with a fierce look in his eyes, but Bian Rang seemed oblivious, still focused on the arena.

 

As if driven to madness, the earth dragon immediately rushed toward the nine-headed snake upon seeing it. The nine-headed snake evaded in a panic, but its nine heads simultaneously lunged at the earth dragon.

 

The earth dragon swung its tail and raised its dragon scales, striking at the nine-headed snake. Several heads of the snake were directly broken by the dragon’s tail, while others clung tightly to the dragon’s body.

 

Both the earth dragon and the nine-headed snake cried out in pain and tore into each other.

 

In no time, the arena was shattered, and a cloud of dust rose, obscuring the view of the spectators. The situation inside the arena couldn’t be seen clearly.

 

In the next moment, a black dragon claw emerged from the dust and lunged at Bian Rang on the high platform.

 

Bian Rang reacted swiftly, grabbing the claw instantly. At the same time, a massive snake head approached him, but Bian Rang twisted and evaded its attack.

 

The snake head tried to launch another attack, but Bian Rang had already moved to its rear, moving with incredible speed. He snapped the snake head with ease before it could react.

 

The giant dragon swung its battered tail, creating a powerful gust of wind that swept towards Bian Rang. Instead of dodging, Bian Rang’s eyes flashed with a bloodthirsty desire.

 

As the dragon’s tail neared Bian Rang’s head, he reached out and gripped it. With a crack, the tail broke, and the arena resounded with the dragon’s pained cry.

 

“You… you tyrant, you won’t die a good death!” With a deafening crash, the giant dragon fell to the ground, its huge bloodshot eyes never closing.

 

The nine-headed snake, with only one head remaining, was terrified and tried to flee.

 

Bian Rang watched the snake’s retreat, his eyes narrowing.

 

The dragon and the snake had actually conspired to betray together.

 

Bian Rang shook his head and gathered his energy in his right hand, forming it into a long sword that he thrust toward the nine-headed snake.

 

Seeing this, Jiuying immediately flew forward, attempting to defend against Bian Rang’s attack. However, his cultivation was inferior to Bian Rang’s, and he was injured by the energy, coughing up blood and falling into the arena.

 

The servants watched in shock. No one in the Nine Heavens had ever dared to block Bian Rang’s attacks. This newcomer didn’t seem to know his place.

 

Bian Rang continued to smile as he gently landed in the arena. At the same time, barriers appeared in the sky, blocking out the sunlight.

 

The arena darkened.

 

Bian Rang stood in front of Jiuying, showing keen interest. “You let that nine-headed snake escape. How about… you have a fight with me?”

 

Jiuying knew he was no match for Bian Rang, but at this moment, he didn’t back down. In response to Bian Rang’s words, he roared and revealed his true form, attacking Bian Rang.

 

Despite having nine heads, Jiuying’s attacks were futile against Bian Rang, who moved hundreds of times faster. Jiuying didn’t even see Bian Rang’s movements before Bian Rang had already grabbed his neck.

 

The more Jiuying struggled, the more frustrated he became. He increased his speed, launching a frenzied attack on Bian Rang. However, each of his attacks was effortlessly received and deflected by Bian Rang, as if he were playing with a child.

 

He couldn’t help but roar, “What’s the matter, you don’t have the strength?”

 

Bian Rang’s smile deepened, and his eyes showed a strong desire for blood. With a swift motion, he kicked Jiuying in the chest, making Jiuying cough up three mouthfuls of blood and fall into the arena.

 

Jiuying felt like his sternum was about to shatter. He couldn’t understand why this was happening. Now, his true form was hundreds of times larger than that person’s. He looked at that person as if they were a weak, helpless prey, but he couldn’t even get close to their body!

 

Why did such terrifying power exist?

 

What was the divine plan?

 

“Do you surrender?” Bian Rang asked with a smile that was almost a smirk.

 

Provoked, Jiuying didn’t want to give in. He roared and attacked Bian Rang again. With his nine heads and nine minds, he tried all sorts of strategies, but they were all dismantled one by one by Bian Rang.

 

Jiuying was once again brought down to the ground, covered in blood.

 

Bian Rang still wore a smile as he asked, “Do you surrender?”

 

In response, Jiuying launched another round of attacks. Bian Rang seemed patient and amused, never striking too hard, only pushing Jiuying back each time, repeatedly asking if Jiuying would surrender.

 

Jiuying never surrendered.

 

Si Lan, who was watching from the side, couldn’t help but silently concede victory to Jiuying in his mind. In the face of absolute power, no matter how hard an egg knocks its head against a stone, it will end up shattered.

 

Jiuying’s temperament was just too intense.

 

Suddenly, Si Lan felt that he should get to know Jiuying better.

 

Jiuying, panting heavily, was in human form, unable to return to his original form. His black clothes were drenched in blood, and his once bright eyes were now filled with it. He clenched his teeth and glared at Bian Rang.

 

Eight of his fingers were broken, but he used the remaining two to support himself, slowly standing up.

 

He was determined to kill Bian Rang!

 

If he could kill him, it would free his people and free Middle heaven.

 

Jiuying staggered toward Bian Rang. Bian Rang didn’t move, lowering his gaze to watch as Jiuying raised his hand towards him. However, Jiuying’s arm dropped weakly, his eyes closed, and he collapsed into Bian Rang’s arms.

 

Bian Rang chuckled softly, embracing Jiuying’s waist, his gaze fixed on Jiuying’s ear.

 

At this moment, Jiuying’s face was covered in blood, except for this ear, which remained pale.

 

“What a stubborn child.”

 

But he happened to like this stubbornness.

---

T/N: Hey there! 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

 

The face of this puppet appeared as if its features had been smoothed and made indistinct, making it impossible to see clearly. However, its body shape seemed to resemble that of a man.

 

Suddenly, a deep sigh escaped from within him. “Chong Ying, is this the place where you and your mother once struggled to survive? You must have gone through a lot in the past.”

 

“…” Haowei.

 

Seeing that Si Lan had misunderstood, Haowei didn’t explain. He lowered his gaze, surveying the surroundings. He felt an indescribable heaviness in his heart, which seemed to grow stronger the longer he stayed in this place.

 

He had no memories of his time in the mortal realm during his past lives because that was when he first “fell ill,” his internal energy was in turmoil, and he killed hundreds of thousands of malevolent spirits.

 

While those malevolent spirits had committed numerous sins, their convictions and punishments should have been decided by the Lord of the Underworld. His actions were a blatant violation of the natural order, which required him to descend to the mortal realm to undergo tribulations as penance.

 

In this life, he carried the burden of being the Star of Ill Omen, with a lonely and arduous destiny. He couldn’t have what he desired, loved, or cherished, and he would ultimately become detached and unattached.

 

His heavenly mother, seeing the hardships of his current life, had pity on him and, before his descent, consulted with the Divine Emperor. It was agreed that once he returned from his tribulations, he would forget everything related to the mortal realm.

 

He only knew that he had lived for twenty years in the mortal realm under the name Chong Ying, and nothing more.

 

He took the puppet with an indistinct face from Si Lan, and his fingers gently caressed it. In an instant, a picture flashed through his mind, showing two hands intertwined together, as if he were holding someone else’s hand and slowly carving the puppet.

 

Si Lan manipulated the formation once again, and they appeared in a new illusory world.

 

Haowei quickly refocused, putting away his previous thoughts, and stared in the direction Si Lan was looking. This time, they were in a bridal chamber.

 

Two incense burners released fragrant smoke, “Double the Happiness” characters adorned the window, red banners hung at the doorway, and a brown pearl curtain remained still in the absence of wind. On the rosewood table, there was an untouched wine jug.

 

This was the bridal chamber set up for Si Lan’s third wedding, and from the look of it, it was the scene before his new bride underwent her heavenly tribulation.

 

Si Lan lightly tapped the table, sighing softly. He hadn’t expected that the bridal chamber, which he thought he would never need, was being used now.

 

He lay down on the bed, patting the space beside him, inviting Haowei to come up. “We’ve had a tiring day. Rest here for a while.”

 

Haowei’s expression was peculiar, and he didn’t respond to Si Lan. Instead, he sat on a nearby bench, closed his eyes, and pondered, looking like an old sage.

 

Si Lan couldn’t help but chuckle. He didn’t force the matter and closed his eyes to rest.

 

Before long, he fell asleep.

 

Haowei, however, kept his eyes open. Gazing through the lingering smoke, he looked at Si Lan lying on the bed.

 

Si Lan took off his jade crown, and his dark hair fell freely. His joyful expression accentuated the pinkish hue of his complexion, making him resemble a charming bride.

 

Haowei suddenly realized that his thoughts had taken a strange turn. He quickly adjusted his gaze and tried to maintain a composed expression.

 

—

 

In the following days, Si Lan continued to work on the Extremely Melodic Eight Trigrams Formation, seemingly unaware of the impending danger.

 

Haowei couldn’t help but wonder if Si Lan was overly optimistic or simply accepting of his fate. Instead of focusing on escaping, Si Lan seemed more interested in studying the formation. After three days, he finally mastered the secrets of the Extremely Melodic Eight Trigrams Formation, displaying the excitement of a child who had just acquired new knowledge.

 

Haowei marveled at how Si Lan, with such a broad-minded heart, had managed to maintain his position as the Demon Lord.

 

On the third day, Jiuying arrived as promised.

 

A colossal serpent head materialized out of thin air, with a pair of crimson, ferocious eyes. Jiuying regarded Haowei when he suddenly appeared within the formation and raised an eyebrow, scanning him from top to bottom.

 

After a moment, he spoke half-jokingly and half-seriously, “Could it be that this child is your offspring?”

 

Si Lan was taken aback and quickly denied, not wanting Jiuying to discover Haowei’s true identity. He deflected the conversation, “Have you harmed the disciples of the Mystic Spirit Sect and the Serpent Charm Clan?”

 

Jiuying hissed, and a snake-shaped aura swirled around him. He responded coldly, “If they willingly came to seek their deaths, I had no choice but to oblige.”

 

Hearing this, it seemed that nothing untoward had happened to the Mystic Spirit Sect and Serpent Charm Clan in the past few days.

 

Si Lan sighed, “After you took my physical body, could you promise to light incense for my parents every Mid-Autumn Festival?”

 

Jiuying looked somewhat displeased, “Are you making demands of me?”

 

Si Lan quickly clarified, fearing that Jiuying might discover Haowei’s true form and attempt to take control of his body. He changed the topic, “I promised my parents that I would visit them every Mid-Autumn Festival.”

 

After hearing this, Jiuying hesitated for a moment and then gave a curt “yes.”

 

The Eight Trigrams Formation underwent changes, and the illusory surroundings seemed to merge with new scenes.

 

Si Lan and Haowei found themselves in a vast cave. The cave’s walls had been eroded by water over the years, leaving behind colorful and eerie marks. The dim light illuminated the cave with a haunting quality.

 

Within the cave flowed an underground river, its waters trickling gently. On the other side of the river stood Quze, who had been waiting for them. When he saw Si Lan’s arrival, he appeared indifferent. However, upon noticing Haowei standing beside Si Lan, his eyes showed signs of wariness.

 

Behind Quze, a gigantic serpent head sculpture stood upright, displaying slight differences from the one Si Lan had seen before.

 

This sculpture had closed snake eyes and retracted fangs, as if it were in a deep slumber.

 

Si Lan was deeply moved and said, “I never expected that, after living for a thousand years, I would end up nurturing someone else’s body.”

 

Haowei looked up at Si Lan and, upon seeing the bridegroom on the bed, couldn’t help but feel uneasy. “Have I been misunderstanding something?”

“Haowei.

 

It seemed like he was worrying for no reason.

 

At this time, he was still thinking about the two of them forming a bond!

 

Jiuying gradually revealed its appearance, blocking the snake head statue behind it. Its eyes darkened, and a powerful aura instantly surged towards Si Lan, lifting him into the air and bringing him in front of it.

 

It circled around Si Lan, a satisfied expression on its face.

 

A race that should have gone extinct in the ancient times unexpectedly still had descendants after ten thousand years.

 

Tsk tsk.

 

It couldn’t hide its excitement, transforming into a tiny flower. At this moment, flower had turned into a snake spine, hanging above Si Lan’s head.

 

The tip of the tonyflower was like a sharp tool, piercing through Si Lan’s nape, causing Si Lan to reveal a pained expression. “Ugh…”

 

“I’m going to replace your spine with that of a snake.” Jiuying not only intended to restore his humanoid body but also planned to restore its true body, which would undoubtedly require snake bones.

 

Si Lan was in so much pain that his face turned ashen, cold sweat forming on his temples, and his hands clenched tightly, suppressing the tremors.

 

Haowei, seeing this, couldn’t help but have a tense expression. He tried to approach Si Lan to help, but was stopped by Quze.

 

“Ugh…”

 

Suddenly, a cry of pain from Si Lan echoed in the air. Haowei raised his head and saw that Jiuying had disappeared. All that was visible was a bright white light that enveloped Si Lan tightly. In the next moment, the light burst forth, and the world in front of them became blindingly white.

 

“Ugh… Ugh…” Si Lan’s cries of pain grew more urgent, continuously emanating from the light.

 

Haowei didn’t expect that Si Lan’s path in life was not one due to optimism but rather a lack of fear to face death.

 

He felt a sense of frustration as if he were trying to make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear. However, everything was obscured by the strong light, and he could only rely on Si Lan’s aura to move toward Si Lan’s path, but was stopped by Quze’s iron arm.

 

This troublesome disciple…

 

Out of anger, Haowei directly broke Quze’s iron arm.

 

Quze grunted, but still showed no fear. He used his remaining left hand to draw a long sword and attacked Haowei again.

 

Haowei evaded the sword energy and instantly appeared in front of Quze. He struck Quze’s chest with a palm.

 

Quze fell from mid-air and tumbled to the ground, vomiting blood.

 

In mid-air, the blinding white light gradually dissipated, and Haowei, with red eyes, looked at the figure in mid-air.

 

The person still wore the same blue clothes and jade belt, but for some reason, he felt that the entire person had changed.

 

“Si Lan” moved his neck and stretched his body. Slowly descending from mid-air, he had a deep and amused look in his eyes. “I’m very satisfied with this body.”

 

It had been a hundred thousand years, and he could finally touch himself again.

 

Thinking about this, Jiuying burst into laughter, with an arrogant and carefree expression. His hands gathered energy and struck the surroundings violently, causing rocks to tumble, and the earth to shake.

 

In front of him, the originally closed snake head statue slowly opened its eyes, revealing two dark doors. The right eye’s door held the transformed humanoid snake mother, while the left eye’s door held a purple-gold four-cornered box.

 

That box was none other than the Golden Crescent Immortal Box.

 

After venting his emotions, Jiuying walked strangely toward the Golden Crescent Immortal Box, holding a corner of it. He muttered, “Don’t worry… I will use the snake mother’s blood to resurrect you…”

 

After saying that, Jiuying suddenly reached out to the snake mother, and in the next instant, the snake mother was brought directly in front of Jiuying.

 

Jiuying pinched the snake mother’s neck, her face gradually losing its blood color, and blood spilling from the corners of her mouth. She struggled to hit Jiuying with both hands, but to no avail.

 

Jiuying’s eyeballs rolled rapidly, his face covered in sinister and terrifying snake patterns, and his nails turned into sharp weapons that pierced the snake mother’s neck.

 

Seeing that the snake mother’s life was hanging by a thread, an untimely voice suddenly rang out.

 

“Ah, I look a bit ugly like this, don’t I?”

 

“I still think that I should possess my own body.”

---

T/N: Hey there! 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

 

Coffin?

 

Haowei raised his gaze, his eyes showing surprise.

 

“The sorcerer said that the Golden Jade Immortal Box was originally used to hold the essence pill of the deceased celestial beings. Later, it somehow ended up in the world of cultivation and was taken by the Xuan Ling Sect. When the first Sect Master of the Xuan Ling Sect passed away, he told his disciples that the Golden Jade Immortal Box contained the Vermilion Jade Pearl, which could protect and nurture the disciples’ cultivation, ensuring the eternal glory of the Xuan Ling Sect.”

 

“Vermilion Jade Pearl…” Haowei pronounced each word slowly. The Vermilion Jade Pearl was just an ordinary pearl that could gather the essence of heaven and earth, assimilating the essence of the sun and moon. If Jiuying wanted to advance their cultivation using the Vermilion Jade Pearl, it would be faster to figure out how to unseal its remaining eight heads.

 

“Wu Dao, please look up ancient texts again to see if there are any records of Jiuying and Bian Rang.”

 

Haowei had a feeling that the relationship between Jiuying and Bian Rang might not be as simple as the scant mentions in the ancient books.

 

Although Jiuying were one of the three ancient demon races, for the Son of Heaven, Bian Rang, their cultivation level was nothing more than a drop in the ocean. So, how did Jiuying manage to kill Bian Rang?

 

It might have been a swift, fatal sword strike, causing his soul to scatter.

 

“Understood.” Yu Wudao bowed to accept the order and then glanced past Haowei as if trying to assess the person in the hot spring.

 

Haowei, noticing this, instinctively blocked Yu Wudao’s line of sight.

 

Yu Wudao looked puzzled, and Haowei, with a stern expression, explained, “Don’t look. He has a piercing gaze.”

 

“…” Yu Wudao.

 

“Wu Dao, have you discovered his true form?” Haowei changed the subject.

 

“I’m still investigating. After I took a drop of his blood last time, I sensed the aura of a phoenix in his bloodline, so I suspect he might be an ancestor of the phoenix.”

 

“An ancestor of the phoenix…” Haowei mused slowly, lost in thought. Then he added, “Continue your investigation, and also, ahem… look into his history of having three wives.”

 

As he mentioned this, Haowei’s eyes flickered slightly, but luckily, Yu Wudao was still looking down, not noticing the anomaly.

 

“Of course.” Yu Wudao accepted the order and hesitated for a moment before asking, “Your Majesty, aren’t you going to help the Demon Lord break the formation? With your current cultivation, breaking the Extreme Sound Eight Trigrams Formation is child’s play.”

 

Haowei heard this and narrowed his long eyes, saying coldly, “He doesn’t need it.”

 

Previously, when he had transformed into a small white dragon, hiding in Si Lan’s arms, he had noticed that when Si Lan was under control and facing Jiuyings’ intimidation and Quze’s betrayal, his heartbeat remained normal. It wasn’t as rapid as it had been last night during the nightmares.

 

He was curious, wondering how long this calm Demon Lord could maintain his composure and what skills he had for a counterattack in dire situations.

 

Yu Wudao couldn’t help but feel that Haowei had become somewhat childish. In the past, even when Haowei’s physical form had turned small, his demeanor had remained mature. Yet now, in just a few days, it seemed like all the childishness within Haowei had surfaced.

 

It was the same face, but he appeared to be a different person.

 

What had this Demon Lord done?

 

Yu Wudao was curious but kept a calm expression, acknowledged the order, and then disappeared within the Six-Pointed Star Formation.

 

Haowei turned around, and through the thin soundproof barrier, he looked at the peacefully sleeping Si Lan.

 

A few strands of black hair clung to Si Lan’s cheeks, and water droplets slowly trickled down, caressing his fair skin. His long, dense eyelashes glistened in the mist.

 

His breathing was shallow, and the water’s surface moved gently. The mist enveloped him like a dream, making him appear like an exquisite sculpture of a deity.

 

Haowei’s gaze lowered slowly to Si Lan’s neck, and he saw the bite marks he had left there the last time.

 

The central area of the bite mark had scabbed and formed a scar, while the surrounding skin held faint traces of purplish bloodstains, creating an exclusive seal.

 

Haowei’s throat moved, and, as though guided by some unseen force, he leaned closer to Si Lan. The temperature of the hot spring had softened the surrounding air, enhancing the richness of Si Lan’s scent.

 

He breathed in Si Lan’s fragrance deeply. Strangely, he had never found anything about Si Lan’s scent off-putting.

 

His nostrils were filled with the scent of Si Lan, and strangely, he felt an inexplicable closeness to it. He was drawn to it.

 

Haowei’s lips lightly pressed against Si Lan’s neck, his gaze unwavering, focusing on Si Lan’s profile. When his teeth made contact with the delicate skin, he could even feel the flow of Si Lan’s blood.

 

He gently bit down, and at that moment, a blinding light suddenly emanated from where his teeth met Si Lan’s skin, adhering his teeth firmly to Si Lan’s neck!

 

He instinctively tried to pull away but found that instead of separating, his teeth were stuck due to the slippery edge of the pool. In his struggle, he tumbled into the warm spring.

 

At this moment, a pair of hands supported his body, lifting him out of the water.

 

Startled, he raised his eyes and, from below, saw Si Lan open his long eyelashes. In the mist, his deep black eyes were clear and captivating. His small, shapely nose and translucent skin made him look like an exquisitely beautiful deity.

 

Haowei glanced at Si Lan’s neck, and he saw that the bite marks from the previous time were still visible.

 

The bite mark had scabbed and scarred in the middle, while the edges had a faint purplish tint, with traces of dried blood.

 

Haowei’s heart suddenly raced, and his expression remained fierce.

 

Si Lan, seeing this, softened his tone and asked gently, “Why did you drink my blood?”

 

Haowei paid no attention to Si Lan and reached to place his hand on Si Lan’s chest, intending to break the enchantment forcefully.

 

However, Si Lan’s gentle voice, combined with his touch, began to work on Haowei’s irritation. He hesitated, then swallowed hard, muffled by his teeth. He spoke unclearly, sounding somewhat cute in his frustration.

 

Si Lan watched this and softened even further. He lowered his voice and asked, “Are you a mosquito spirit?”

 

Haowei didn’t respond. Instead, he turned his head away, his voice cold, “Put on your clothes quickly.”

 

Si Lan looked down and said, “Oh, we’re both boys. Why are you shy?”

 

“…” Little White Dragon.

 

A thousand-year-old boy?

 

A boy who kissed his forehead the first time they met and said he wanted to make a pact with him?

 

Si Lan, while getting dressed, asked, “Little White Dragon, what’s your name?”

 

Haowei hesitated and revealed the fake name he had used during his mortal trials, “Chóng Yǐng.”

 

Si Lan nodded and said, “Chóng Yǐng, a few days ago, I heard someone cursing me in my divine sense. Was that you?”

 

Haowei replied calmly, “No.”

 

Si Lan didn’t press further. He always felt a sense of guilt towards the little White Dragon. After all, he had nearly drowned him in wine back then.

 

Fortunately, he didn’t open the bottle, or his crime would have been much more significant.

 

“If I had known you could transform into a human form, I wouldn’t have taken you with me. Now you’re stuck with me in this place,” Si Lan remarked while continuing to dress.

 

Haowei heard this and his expression softened, “I could have escaped on my own, but you held me in your arms.”

 

Si Lan paused in his actions, realizing that when Haowei had been afraid, he had held the little White Dragon even closer.

 

“Cough, don’t worry; we can survive for three days… Oh, wait, two days. A day has already passed, and time is passing quickly.”

 

Haowei’s expression remained neutral.

 

Once Si Lan finished dressing, he patted Haowei’s head. He was about to comfort him but noticed that Haowei’s two dragon horns had disappeared. So, he knelt down and remarked, “It’s interesting; your two horns can retract and extend freely. When do your dragon horns come out?”

 

For some reason, the red blush that had faded from Haowei’s ears earlier began to creep back, and he replied coldly, “When I’m angry.”

 

Si Lan raised an eyebrow, finding this quite fascinating. Were they like the furry creatures of the Long Hair Clan who puffed up when angry? Did the scaled ones raise their ears when they were upset? Perhaps, in the future, he could determine if Haowei was angry based on his horns.

 

Si Lan thought this was amusing and couldn’t help but gaze at Haowei with a hint of curiosity.

 

Haowei noticed Si Lan’s gaze, and his eyebrows furrowed.

 

Si Lan didn’t think much about it, opened a storage pouch, and found only a wild fruit inside. He handed it to Haowei and said, “Let’s fill our stomachs for now.”

 

Haowei didn’t take the fruit and cautiously inquired, “Now that you’ve lost your cultivation, what’s your plan?”

 

Si Lan nonchalantly replied, “I’ll study the Eight Trigrams Array first.”

 

The Extremely Sound Eight Trigrams Array had eight directions and a central point, each sealing one of Jiuyings’ nine heads. The seal in the central position had somehow loosened, allowing one of Jiuyings’ heads to awaken.

 

This head was conveniently buried in a location where Lou Yu was in seclusion, so it had set its sights on him.

 

Jiuyings had used various tactics, beginning with dream manipulation to make Lou Yu attempt suicide, then using Lou Yu’s flesh to cultivate the Teng-Ying flower and reforge his spine with Yun Lan. Finally, they involved Quze to deceive Si Lan into breaking his own cultivation.

 

The planning was intricate and step-by-step.

 

Inside the Extremely Sound Eight Trigrams Array, there were over ten thousand illusory scenarios. Accidentally triggering a mechanism could lead to random teleportation to another illusion.

 

Originally, Jiuying had set up this formation to permanently imprison themselves, but they hadn’t expected it to be used against them after many years.

 

Si Lan used a small stone to draw a Yin-Yang Eight Trigrams pattern on the ground. When he aligned the black dot in the pattern with the Hexagram of Li, the illusion in front of them suddenly changed, and they found themselves in a large hall.

 

The spacious hall had nothing but a half-carved dragon on the ceiling. It appeared unfinished, and Jiuying might have sculpted it themselves.

 

Were they in the process of restoring something?

 

Si Lan puzzled, “But didn’t Jiuying personally kill Bia…”

---

T/N: Hey there! 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

 

The great serpent slowly opened its mouth, its voice hoarse and deep, “What a fine vessel.”

 

Si Lan’s lips twitched, “Exaggerated praise.”

 

“Heh.” Jiuying sneered, his head unmoving, only shifting his eyeballs, glancing left and right. It was as if he had already regarded Si Lan as his possession, assessing his utility.

 

Si Lan, on the other hand, remained calm, allowing Jiuying to scrutinize him. Jiuying couldn’t help but feel curious, “Aren’t you surprised to see me?”

 

“I’ve already learned of your identity from the Enchanting Serpent Clan. If you seek my physical form, you could have come to me directly. Why go through the trouble of harming Lou Yu?”

 

“I didn’t harm him. Quite the opposite, I fulfilled him. Even if he didn’t take his own life, his cultivation was already destroyed, descending into the demonic path, with little time left.”

 

Si Lan clenched his fingers tightly, his gaze cold as he looked at Jiuying. He heard Jiuying continue, “I helped him make amends for his guilt. In the Dream-Crafting Art, the Demon King still lives, and they both live well.”

 

Si Lan had heard about the ancient magical dream-making spell, which could bring a person who had lost his soul back to life, but this person could only live in a dream forever. Because only dreams are not controlled by the six realms, five elements, and the reincarnation of heaven, but such a spell has been lost for a long time, and I didn’t expect Jiuying to still be able to do it.

 

Si Lan asked suspiciously, “You would be so kind to help Lou Yu?”

 

“Of course, after all, he and I share the same problem.”

 

When Si Lan heard this, his eyes fell on Jiuying’s neck. Jiuying’s body was cut off directly from the neck. The wounds that had lasted for more than 100,000 years were scabbed into dark brown scars, which were still shocking. The scales near the scars were as white as blades. , like blades inserted into the neck.

 

How could Lou Yu and him have sympathy for each other?

 

Probably sensing Si Lan’s appraising gaze, Jiuying hissed, “When I was checking Lou Yu’s memory, I suddenly discovered your existence. You are simply a body container tailor-made for me.”

 

“…”

 

Si Lan said expressionlessly, “I’m afraid I can’t let you do that, I also like my physical body very much.”

 

“Do you think you have any other choice? Demon King Si Lan…” Jiuying spoke word by word, lowered his head a little, and looked at Si Lan level with his eyes. The huge red pupils were scarlet and terrifying, and they were not meant to intimidate. It goes without saying.

 

Si Lan’s expression remained motionless, “You just woke up from the confinement. You’ve lost eight heads and your body. Do you think you can beat me with your current cultivation level?”

 

“I can’t beat you, but what if you lose your cultivation?” Jiuying became angry and asked Si Lan coldly. It was shocked by Si Lan’s words, “Eight heads are gone, and eight bodies are gone.” Angry.

 

“How can it be?”

 

“How is it impossible?”

 

Si Lan’s expression changed slightly, he gripped the whip tightly, and tried to hit Jiuying’s head, but found that he couldn’t move his arm!

 

He seemed to have been caught by a restraining spell at this moment, unable to move his whole body. Even if he opened his lips and recited the incantation, the spell would not work.

 

How so?

 

What happened to his cultivation?

 

While Si Lan was in shock, a figure gradually appeared in the corner. The figure looked like a young man, not tall but with a slender figure. One hand hung by his side and the other behind his back.

 

It’s Quze.

 

Si Lan hurriedly said, “Quze, why are you here? Leave quickly!”

 

However, Quze was indifferent and walked over slowly, standing on Jiuying’s side, face to face with Si Lan.

 

Si Lan met Quze’s sinister and deep gaze, and seemed to understand something. He frowned and was speechless for a moment. The only person who could poison him quietly was Quze, and only if Quze handed him something, he would drink it without thinking.

 

After a long silence, Si Lan asked, “Why?”

 

Quze said nothing and raised his right arm that had been behind his back.

 

Although the mechanical arm was made neatly and swiftly, it was still not as good as his own hand. Every time the five iron fingers moved, a clicking sound came from the joints, as if they were about to break.

 

He has always been treated as a different person because of this arm. No matter how hard he practices, he is still not as good as those with perfect hands.

 

His cultivation level is now second only to the master of the Twelve Peaks in the Demon Realm. It is self-evident that the hardships involved.

 

Si Lan explained, “Quze, I did cut off your arm, but it happened for a reason. I didn’t mean to make you like this.”

 

Quze spoke calmly, “Your Majesty, no matter what the reason was, you still took it away. Now only Jiuying is willing to help me restore my arm, so I’m sorry, Your Majesty.”

 

Si Lan still wanted to explain, but after Quze finished speaking, he turned around and left, his figure gradually disappearing in the darkness. Seeing this, Si Lan could only say to Quze’s back, “Quze, protect Xie Li.”

 

Quze didn’t respond, and Si Lan couldn’t help but whisper, “Little bastard.”

 

Realizing that Jiuying was still observing her body, Si Lan grimaced. She had never been looked up and down and looked up and down by someone of the same gender in such a long life.

 

“I will soak you in a hot spring, starve you for three days, empty out the accumulated food, and then take away your body.”

 

Si Lan couldn’t help but twitch the corners of his mouth.

 

Took away your body…

 

Why is this statement so ambiguous?

 

He suddenly felt a little grateful for the two fish he ate last night. It was because of them that he could live for three more days.

 

Jiuying changed his formation, and the scene in front of him changed instantly, but in the blink of an eye Si Lan appeared in the hot spring. Now that his cultivation is under control, he is like a bird in a cage or a turtle in an urn, and the Jiuying no longer restrain his hands and feet.

 

“In three days, I want to see you clean. If you are still a little bit dirty, don’t blame me for digging out your belly and cleaning your internal organs.

 

“…” Si Lan.

 

After speaking, Jiuying cast a spell to take off Si Lan’s clothes. Si Lan’s body was suddenly exposed, and he was so frightened that he quickly hid in the hot spring water, seemingly frightened, “Why are you so rude?”

 

Jiuying didn’t say a word, and the huge head disappeared out of thin air.

 

The moment Si Lan’s clothes were taken off, the little white dragon was caught off guard and slid down from Si Lan’s arms. It easily grabbed Si Lan’s thighs and stabilized his body. As a result, he raised his head and looked in his eyes before blushing instantly.

 

Si Lan lowered his head and found something hanging underneath. He couldn’t help laughing and picked up Haowei from the water.

 

At this moment, all the silver scales on Haowei’s body turned pink. When he was fished out of the water, the water droplets slid across the scales, creating a blush that made Haowei look even more pink.

 

The two pink dragon horns are crystal clear, like coral in the deep sea.

 

Si Lan couldn’t help but poke the dragon’s horn. He noticed that Haowei’s body trembled slightly and subconsciously covered his body with his four claws. Si Lan’s lips smiled even more happily.

 

“We are both men, why are you shy?”

 

“…” Haowei.

 

It seems that he was not safe in public either…

 

After all, how many people will say they want to form a contract upon meeting for the first time?

 

On the contrary, Si Lan became curious from its overtly vigilant behavior. He remembered that ancient books mentioned dragons as creatures that lay eggs, have two genitalia, and are sexually promiscuous. He didn’t know if it was true…

 

His gaze wandered downward, passing over the inch by inch scales on Haowei’s belly. Haowei had a vague sense that something was amiss, and a chill ran down its spine. Before it could react, its tail was lifted high.

 

Haowei tried to shake off Si Lan’s hand, but at that moment, Si Lan caught its tail. A shiver ran through its back, and a tingling sensation spread from the bottom up.

 

“There’s just one…” Si Lan’s voice was gentle, a look of disappointment on his face. He released Haowei’s tail. “It seems the books aren’t entirely accurate.”

 

Haowei understood what Si Lan was referring to, and its scales turned a deeper shade of red. It couldn’t help but grind its teeth.

 

Shameless Demon Lord.

 

Did he have no shame at all? How could he lift its tail to look?!

 

“Still a bit small,” Si Lan suddenly said, seemingly without rhyme or reason.

 

Haowei heard this and was thoroughly enraged. How could it be small? It was currently in its young dragon form, so, naturally, it was smaller!

 

It had never been called small all its life.

 

Feeling its true dragon aura slighted, it wanted him to know that it wasn’t small, and there was another one hidden under the scales.

 

Haowei used its divine sense and spoke in a stern tone, “Demon Lord!”

 

However, at some point, Si Lan had closed his eyes and leaned against a rock in the pool, peacefully sleeping.

 

Si Lan had been on edge for quite some time and hadn’t rested properly.

 

The hot spring had a comfortable temperature and fine water quality, with wisps of water vapor. Immersed in it, he felt his mind relax, and it didn’t take long for him to fall asleep.

 

Haowei’s golden eyes shifted slightly as it gazed deeply at him. “He’s truly audacious.” Even though he was imprisoned, and it seemed his body would be taken from him, he was still able to leisurely take a bath and rest with an air of confidence.

 

Haowei crawled out of the water, reverting to the appearance of a five or six-year-old child. It glanced around and confirmed the presence of a massive formation here, the Extreme Sound Eight Trigrams Array.

 

This was the formation used to seal Jiuying ten thousand years ago.

 

The Xuanling Mountain, the hidden passage, and even the forest at the foot of the Xuanling Mountain were all places used to seal Jiuying’s nine heads. These areas were all covered by the Extreme Sound Eight Trigrams Array, and there should have been no issues. However, somehow, a part of the formation was missing, allowing one of Jiuying’s heads to awaken.

 

This was what had caused Jiuying to wreak havoc.

 

The little white dragon cast a spell to block Si Lan’s senses, and then it drew a Hexagram formation in thin air. Soon, a black-robed immortal appeared within the formation.

 

Upon seeing the little white dragon, Yu Wudao immediately paid his respects. “Your Majesty.”

 

“How is the investigation into the Golden Pearl Immortal Box proceeding?” The last time Haowei visited the Heavenly Court, it found a brief mention in the ancient texts of the entanglement between Jiuying and Bian Rang, only three lines long.

 

In the beginning when the world was created, the Three Sons of the Heavenly Dao were placed in the following places; Middle Wilderness, Middle Heaven, and Middle Elegance.

 

Bian Rang, of the Middle Wilderness, was bloodthirsty.

 

He subjugated Jiuying, but was ultimately subjugated by Jiuying and met his end.

 

Combined with what the double-headed Enchanting Serpent had said, Haowei could roughly piece together what had happened ten thousand years ago.

 

Bian Rang had been ruthless and cruel during his rule in Middle Wilderness, enslaving the Nine-Headed Serpent clan. He was ultimately killed by Jiuying. Afterward, the Nine-Headed Serpent clan faced heavenly punishment due to Jiuying’s transgressions, and Jiuying was brutally killed.

 

However, it was unclear why Jiuying had sought the Golden Pearl Immortal Box.

 

So before leaving the Heavenly Court, Haowei had ordered Yu Wudao to investigate the Golden Pearl Immortal Box.

 

“Your Majesty, I’ve found the craftsman who made the Golden Pearl Immortal Box. He said that it’s actually a kind of secondary coffin.”

---

T/N: Hey there! 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

 

Si Lan slept deeply this time, but he had another nightmare.

 

In the dream, he couldn’t perform any magic, couldn’t make a sound, and was chased by a sinister and terrifying snake-headed creature. No matter how hard he tried to escape, he couldn’t get away. In the end, he was devoured by the creature, his body slowly corroding, turning into a pool of blood.

 

He was awakened by the small white dragon in his arms, his head filled with momentary confusion. Si Lan looked around, and the disciples of the Profound Spirit Sect and the Enchanting Serpent Clan were still resting. His two disciples were quietly meditating nearby.

 

He touched his sore left cheek and looked at the small white dragon in confusion. “Why did you suddenly hit me?”

 

The small white dragon gave him a disdainful look.

 

Initially, it had intended to drink Si Lan’s blood, but it noticed Si Lan’s abnormally fast heartbeat, as if he was having a nightmare. Seeing him in distress, it used its claw to wake him up.

 

Sometimes kindness goes unappreciated.

 

“My Lord, is everything alright?” Quze heard Si Lan’s voice and opened his eyes, asking.

 

Si Lan touched the dragon horn. “It’s nothing.”

 

Dragons, aside from having impenetrable scales, generally did not allow people to touch their horns. But this Si Lan repeatedly touched Haowei’s dragon horn.

 

Haowei was about to explode with anger.

 

Enduring humiliation for just a sip of blood was truly a heavy burden.

 

Quze got up, went to the stream to fetch some water, and came back to give some to Si Lan and Xie Li to drink.

 

The small white dragon observed Quze, who was busy, and narrowed its golden eyes slightly. It was quite interesting to see how this person, who seemingly had sinister intentions, took care of Si Lan so meticulously. He even did a better job than a servant, which explained why Si Lan didn’t suspect him.

 

The disciples of the Profound Spirit Sect and the Enchanting Serpent Clan woke up one after the other. Despite a peaceful night, they now faced each other in a renewed state of confrontation in the morning.

 

Seeing that they were about to engage in a dispute again, Si Lan spoke first, “If everyone’s injuries are mostly healed, let’s return to the Profound Spirit Mountain today to assess the situation.”

 

“Lord Si Lan, we of the Profound Spirit Sect can go back on our own. There’s no need for them to accompany us,” Xu Yi said, casting a cold glance at the two-headed snake.

 

Before Si Lan could respond, the two-headed serpent sneered and said, “If it weren’t for finding the Snake Mother, do you think we’d bother going to that wretched place?”

 

“You…”

 

Upon hearing such insolent words, the disciples of the Profound Spirit Sect immediately drew their longswords, intimidating the two-headed serpent. The small serpentlings extended their forked tongues, their eyes filled with anger.

 

Si Lan shook his head with a hint of helplessness and said, “I see you’re all in good spirits. Let’s set out now.”

 

After speaking, he paid no further attention to them and directly used magic to fly towards the Profound Spirit Mountain. Quze and Xie Li followed by his side.

 

At this moment, Xie Li felt a bit scared and thought that the human realm was too dangerous. He wanted to return to the demon realm. However, Quze and his master chose to stay, so he reluctantly clung to a piece of Si Lan’s robe with a mournful expression.

 

When Si Lan landed on the Profound Spirit Mountain, he saw that the mountain had been split in half. One half had been shattered into pieces, with huge rocks crushing the Qiong Lou Jade Pavilion, turning its once vibrant beauty into smoke and dust. The other half of the mountain was stained with the fresh blood of the Enchanting Serpent Clan, and the crimson stains had long since dried, resembling brown scars etched on the surface of the rocks.

 

The air around was filled with the pungent smell of snake blood mixed with debris, creating an eerie and unpleasant atmosphere.

 

In this world, there were countless complexities and karmic entanglements, making it challenging for people to navigate.

 

Si Lan couldn’t help but feel a sense of contemplation. The Immortal who once saved the common people ended up succumbing to his own darkness.

 

He wondered if Lou Yu thought about his Profound Spirit Sect and his path in the final moments. Perhaps he did but ultimately chose to abandon them.

 

“Master, Master, they are here!”

 

A sudden scream interrupted Si Lan’s thoughts. He immediately flew towards the direction of the voice and found a corner of a red wedding dress exposed under a pile of rocks.

 

Si Lan used magic to move the rocks, gradually revealing the faces of Lou Yu and Yun Lan. Their bodies were protected by an array, preventing them from being disfigured by the impact.

 

At this moment, Lou Yu and Yun Lan were wearing wedding attire, with Yun Lan leaning against Lou Yu’s chest. They appeared peaceful, like a pair of lovers who had embraced their fate.

 

Si Lan had previously speculated that Jiuying might want Lou Yu’s body, but he didn’t expect Lou Yu’s body to still be here. Whose body did Jiuying want?

 

Suddenly, a sentence Yun Lan had said echoed in Si Lan’s mind, “I’m sorry for bringing you here; I had no other choice. My only wish in this life is to marry my senior brother.”

 

At that time, he was in a hurry to take Yun Lan away and didn’t think about the meaning of her words. Now, upon careful consideration, it seemed he understood why Yun Lan had apologized.

 

Perhaps the body Jiuying wanted wasn’t Lou Yu’s but his own.

 

For a moment, Si Lan didn’t know whether to cry or laugh. He never expected his original form, the “wild chicken,” to be so popular.

 

Xu Yi and the other disciples knelt beside the bodies of Lou Yu and Yun Lan, their eyes red and teary.

 

As the sky gradually darkened, dark clouds rolled and thunder and lightning appeared in the distance, indicating an impending rainstorm.

 

In a solemn tone, Si Lan said, “Xu Yi, please bury Lou Yu and Miss Yun Lan as soon as possible.”

 

Xu Yi nodded with teary eyes and made a solemn vow by their bodies, “Master, I will seek vengeance for you!”

 

Heavy rain poured down, transforming the world into a misty gray.

 

The disciples of the Profound Spirit Sect, enduring the rain, carried out a joint burial for Lou Yu and Yun Lan.

 

Lou Yu’s soul was given to the Moth King, while his body stayed with Yun Lan, fulfilling their karmic debt in this lifetime.

 

However, his ordeal was not successfully transcended.

 

On the other side, the Enchanting Serpent Clan, braving the rain, searched for the Snake Mother’s aura. They scoured the entire Profound Spirit Mountain but found no trace of her.

 

The Tong Dan bead indicated that the Snake Mother’s aura was nearly imperceptible, hanging by a thread of life.

 

The two-headed serpent held the Tong Dan bead tightly, sitting dejectedly on a pile of rubble. They couldn’t save the Snake Mother, and living no longer seemed meaningful. The small serpentlings lay limp beside the two-headed serpent, seemingly feeling that snake life had lost its meaning, drooping their heads.

 

After Si Lan had handled Lou Yu’s affairs, he returned to see a group of snakes, both large and small, looking disheartened.

 

“Is there any trace of the Snake Mother?” Si Lan inquired.

 

The two-headed serpent shook its heads.

 

Even though they had used the blood of the Enchanting Serpent Clan to forge the Tong Ying, why hadn’t Jiuying released the Snake Mother yet?

 

Si Lan contemplated, “I know where the Snake Mother was previously kept. Let’s go there and see if we can find any clues.”

 

Upon hearing this, the two-headed serpent’s eyes lit up. “Good.”

 

Si Lan beckoned his two young disciples to follow him. He didn’t know what Jiuying planned to do, but he had a feeling that the enemy might come to them, so he needed to ensure the safety of his two young disciples.

 

The waterfall on the Profound Spirit Mountain had also been split in two, with the water flow diverted. The creek bed was now filled with bare, smooth pebbles. Si Lan used magic to move a massive stone, revealing a dim, hidden passage in front of everyone.

 

The disciples of the Profound Spirit Sect exchanged bewildered glances, surprised to discover such a hidden passage despite having lived on the Profound Spirit Mountain for so long.

 

“How can there be such a passage?”

 

“Could our master have really captured the Snake Mother and kept her here?”

 

“It wasn’t our master who did it; someone controlled him,” Xu Yi coldly interrupted the discussions of his junior disciples.

 

The junior disciples lowered their heads, and the atmosphere remained silent.

 

At this moment, a harsh, mocking laughter broke the silence.

 

“Heh.”

 

Xu Yi turned around in anger and saw a young man among the small Enchanting Serpent Clan members. His neck was wrapped in gauze, and he stared coldly at Xu Yi.

 

Xu Yi frowned and examined the young man before realizing the familiar, unpleasant aura emanating from him. He recognized the black-robed youth as the two-headed enchanting serpent.

 

The two-headed serpent wanted to descend into the underground passage, but its true form was too massive, so it assumed a human-like appearance.

 

Xu Yi wryly warned his junior disciples, “Be careful, don’t break your necks down there; after all, we don’t have two heads like someone else.”

 

“…” the black-robed youth.

 

As they proceeded deeper into the tunnel, the light grew dimmer. Si Lan conjured a small flame to illuminate the way and cautioned everyone, “Watch your step.”

 

The sound of dripping water became increasingly distinct in the confined space, like it was suspended above each person’s ears, causing them to hold their breath and heightening their anxiety.

 

At the end of the stone path, the first thing they saw was a massive circular platform. Above the platform hung an iron cage covered in runes, but the cage was empty, with no sign of the Snake Mother.

 

Si Lan remembered that when Song Guang had touched the iron cage last time, the circular platform beneath his feet had instantly opened, revealing a secret chamber that concealed the Snake Mother. He wondered whether the Snake Mother was still in that secret chamber.

 

He instructed everyone to step back and then used magic to blast the circular platform open, revealing the hidden chamber inside.

 

Although the secret chamber was large, it was completely empty. They searched the area but found no clues, leaving them with no progress.

 

Si Lan couldn’t comprehend why the Golden Jade Immortal Box, which was a treasure of the Profound Spirit Sect, was supposed to be somewhere near the Profound Spirit Mountain, yet they hadn’t found any traces in these places.

 

As he pondered this in the front, he suddenly noticed a dark shadow pass by. He immediately chased after it. Not forgetting to instruct Quze, “Quze, protect everyone!”

 

“Yes,” Quze replied as he pulled Xie Li behind him.

 

“What’s happening?”

 

“What’s going on?”

 

While the group was still puzzled, another dark shadow suddenly flashed by. It resembled a snake head.

 

The disciples of the Profound Spirit Sect and the Enchanting Serpent Clan chased after this shadow together.

 

Si Lan followed the shadow, but as he moved further, he saw a massive stone wall covered with moss and brown stains at the end. The moss seemed to move on its own, and the stains appeared and disappeared, creating an eerie and quiet atmosphere that exuded a sense of strangeness.

 

“Master… help…” Xie Li’s voice suddenly came from behind Si Lan. Without thinking much, he turned around and walked back toward the sound.

 

But in the next instant, the path in front of him changed. The passage suddenly veered in a different direction, and a wooden door engraved with snake patterns appeared out of nowhere.

 

Si Lan examined his surroundings, and his gaze finally fell to the ground beneath his feet. He realized he was standing on the central point of the Yin-Yang Eight Diagrams. He understood that this stone path wasn’t just a path; it was a formation. Touching different restrictions would open different doors leading to different worlds.

 

The door in front of him seemed to be deliberately luring him.

 

Si Lan concealed his aura and extended his hand to push the door open. Inside, he saw a stone wall carved with a giant snake head. Its eyes were blood-red, and its fangs were fierce and lifelike, exuding a sense of fear. This snake head resembled the one in his dream, which had devoured him.

 

In the corner, the Snake Mother was bound by iron chains, lying on the ground, barely conscious.

 

Seeing Si Lan’s arrival, she slowly raised her head and moved her lips.

 

However, her voice was too faint for Si Lan to hear. But by observing her lip movements, it seemed she was trying to convey a message, perhaps urging him to escape.

 

Nevertheless, he thought, “No risk, no reward.”

 

Si Lan drew his Xuanxin whip and continued to step forward.

 

At that moment, the stone statue of the snake head suddenly came to life. The snake head swayed slowly, with thin, long eyes, fiery-red pupils that gleamed, and scales between the brows that resembled snow. It extended its snake tongue, which was like a venomous thread, toward Si Lan, approaching him. An immense pressure filled the entire stone cavern, accompanied by the strong hostility exuding from the giant snake, sending chills down one’s spine.

 

Si Lan couldn’t help but reflect on the fact that this was the last of the Nine-Headed Serpents from ancient times.

 

The small white dragon in his arms suddenly moved. Si Lan thought it was scared and gently stroked its head to comfort it, saying, “Don’t be afraid; I’m here.”

 

However, the small white dragon had no fear. It just wanted to go along and see what Jiuying looked like. Plus, it had sensed a familiar aura of malevolence emanating from Jiuying, reminiscent of the person who had disrupted its tribulation. This made it curious about the connection between Jiuying and that person.

---

T/N: Hey there! 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 17

 

Si Lan inexplicably felt that the little white dragon was angry. He explained softly, “This matter is a long story, but Xie Li is not really my son.”

 

the little white dragon’s lips twitched, and his two dragon whiskers moved up and down, as if he wasn’t sure whether to believe it.

 

“Don’t talk nonsense,” Xuyi suddenly lowered his voice and reprimanded the fellow disciples, “If the Supreme Master is watching from the heavens and sees you slandering Master Si Lan like this, he might be angered again.”

 

Several junior disciples and sisters had never seen Xuyi so angry, and they fell silent, following Xuyi.

 

Si Lan nodded, and Xuyi’s current demeanor was impressive. Si Lan thought that if Xuyi took charge of the Xuanling Sect, Luyu would be able to relax. Si Lan was about to use magic to sneak away when a female disciple suddenly screamed, “Ah… there’s a big spider…”

 

“Where is it? Where is it?”

 

“On… on me… Ah…”

 

The female disciple patted her body while hiding behind a large rock, and her eyes unexpectedly met Si Lan’s hidden in the shadows.

 

“…” Si Lan.

 

“…” Female disciple.

 

“Ah… help…” The female disciple screamed even louder this time, as if she had seen a ghost, and she jumped and leaped out in fear.

 

Si Lan never expected that he would be more terrifying than a big spider.

 

The other junior disciples, thinking that there might be a monster hiding in the big rock, quickly drew their swords and surrounded the rock.

 

“What kind of monster is it?”

 

Si Lan had no choice but to step out of the shadows and say, “It’s me.”

 

“Master Si Lan…” Xuyi quickly sheathed his sword and signaled the other disciples to do the same. “What are you doing here?”

 

After he spoke, Xuyi saw that Si Lan was currently holding a fish in each hand, and the two fish were still alive and jumping.

 

“…” Xuyi.

 

Si Lan also didn’t know whether to throw the fish or hide them, feeling that the night air was filled with an awkward atmosphere, making him want to escape.

 

He cleared his throat and explained, “I was planning to roast these two fish to satisfy my hunger.”

 

Xuyi, thinking about what the junior disciples and sisters had just said, seemed embarrassed. He blushed and seemed to want to explain something but didn’t know how to begin.

 

Si Lan, seeing Xuyi’s expression, could only say, “I’ll go back to roast the fish. You can continue.”

 

“Master Si Lan…”

 

Si Lan pretended not to hear Xuyi’s voice and walked away.

 

Xuyi watched Si Lan leave, regretfully tapping his forehead. How did Master Si Lan always manage to overhear the junior disciples’ gossip?

 

Thinking about this, Xuyi looked at the junior disciples and sisters behind him and said, “If you gossip again in the future, you’ll be punished according to the sect’s rules!”

 

—

 

Si Lan found a quiet spot, made a fire, and started roasting the small crucian carp. Soon, the fragrance began to waft from the fish.

 

Estimating that it was cooked, Si Lan picked a piece of fish and placed it on a leaf, handing it to the little white dragon in his arms.

 

The little white dragon looked at the fish with a cold expression.

 

Previously, it had returned to the Heavenly Court, searched for information about Jiu Ying, and hurried back to share the news with Si Lan. However, it had overheard the disciples gossiping about Si Lan’s child.

 

Was that little green-robed troublemaker truly Si Lan’s son? Or had Si Lan given birth himself?

 

Thinking of this, the little white dragon’s gaze fixed firmly on Si Lan’s abdomen.

 

It hadn’t imagined that Si Lan possessed such a talent.

 

Si Lan, seeing that it wasn’t eating, said, “Little one, you’re not still upset about Xie Li not being my son, are you?”

 

The little white dragon instantly bristled, irritated and embarrassed after having its feelings exposed. It raised its scales all over its body, feeling like thorns poking into Si Lan’s heart.

 

Si Lan winced and hastily pulled the little creature out of his arms. “Why are you so moody…”

 

Could it be because it was too young?

 

Unable to speak or express itself, so it resorted to tantrums?

 

Si Lan placed the little white dragon on the ground and said, “Xie Li is not my son, but his connection with me runs deep.”

 

Si Lan himself had not fully understood this matter. According to his mother, when he was born, she found a red bead inside his eggshell while cleaning. She drilled a hole through it and threaded it as a talisman on his wrist.

 

As he grew, that bead quietly transformed into the appearance of a piece of jade.

 

He then tied the jade around his waist as a pendant.

 

One day, while he was in seclusion practicing, he suddenly heard crying coming from his waist. He opened his eyes and found a naked chubby baby, lying on his waist, crying loudly.

 

And the piece of jade on his waist had disappeared.

 

To be honest, he had speculated that the red jade might be a gallstone he brought out from the womb, but he never thought that the “gallstone” would turn out to be a chubby baby.

 

Si Lan recounted this strange story to the little white dragon one by one. After finishing his words, he still felt it was absurd. “After Little Xie Li was born, I used his spiritual sense to check the bloodline of his parents and found the traces of three individuals.”

 

So, regardless of whether it was two fathers and one mother or two mothers and one father, it seemed like a complicated family drama.

 

He felt like he had stumbled upon some unspeakable secret, so he cautiously kept it to himself, not providing a detailed explanation of Xie Li’s origins to outsiders. He only said that Xie Li was a jade pendant spirit he found at the foot of Zhuyun Peak. However, he hadn’t expected rumors to circulate outside, suggesting that Xie Li was his son.

 

In his mind, he couldn’t help but complain that the situation was even more bizarre than a virgin giving birth. Perhaps the only thing stranger than virgin birth was male virgin birth.

 

Although he had lived in the demon realm for over a thousand years, he had never heard of anyone possessing such an ability.

 

After hearing Si Lan’s complaints, the little white dragon half-closed its eyes, its expression unreadable.

 

“Um, it’s really delicious,” Si Lan’s thoughts were quickly drawn back to the roasted fish. He gnawed on the fragrant fish bones, nearly moved to tears.

 

For the past thousand years, to conceal his identity, he had only consumed divine nectar and jade nectar and had not eaten ordinary human food. Now, even without any seasoning, the roasted fish tasted incredibly delicious to him.

 

After filling his stomach, he wiped his mouth contentedly and picked up the little white dragon to head back.

 

In the quiet forest, moonlight poured through the dense branches and leaves like a delicate veil. The interlocking gaps between the branches and leaves seemed like pairs of eyes watching everything that happened in the forest.

 

Si Lan saw that Quze had not yet fallen asleep and was walking alone into the depths of the forest. His steps were exceptionally light, almost ghostly.

 

Si Lan didn’t think too much about it and continued walking. However, the little white dragon tugged at his clothes, suggesting that he should follow Quze.

 

Si Lan noticed the little white dragon’s intent and patted its head, “Little one, my disciple needs to relieve himself. Let’s not intrude.”

 

“…” Little white dragon.

 

Why was there such an “innocent” Demon Lord in this world?

 

When he unified the Five Realms, why did he spare the Demon Realm?

 

Which spy had told him that Demon Lord Si Lan was of immeasurable cultivation and unparalleled wisdom?

 

Next time he returned to the Heavenly Court, the little white dragon decided to expose that spy.

 

Quze walked into the depths of the forest, made sure there was no one around, and set up a barrier to prevent outsiders from seeing what was happening inside the barrier.

 

The huge snake head slowly emerged, its brown eyes half-squinted, emanating a fierce look.

 

“Next, find a way to lure him into the Extreme Sound Eight Trigrams Array,” the snake head said.

 

“Understood,” Quze responded without expression, meeting the snake head’s gaze confidently.

 

“When necessary, use Xie Li to threaten him,” the snake head continued.

 

“Very well.”

 

“Does he suspect you?”

 

“No, he trusts me completely.”

 

“Do you feel no guilt about betraying him?”

 

“What do you mean by ‘betrayal’?” Quze suddenly sneered, and he slowly extended his mechanical right hand. His five fingers stretched and clenched in mid-air, making a difficult fist motion. “This hand was given to me by him. Everything I do now is simply seeking revenge.”

 

The snake head chuckled hoarsely, “As long as you help me with the final task, I will help you reshape your arm.”

 

Quze’s eyes flickered slightly, as he seemed tempted by this offer. “You’ve already reshaped my spine, so why do you need the Immortal Box?”

 

The snake head didn’t move but shifted its gaze toward Quze. “It’s an insignificant matter.”

 

Was it really insignificant?

 

Perhaps not.

 

Opening the Golden Orb Immortal Box might be more important to him than reshaping his physical body.

 

The snake head changed the subject, “What’s the origin of the little white snake in his arms?” The snake head couldn’t sense the aura of that little white snake, either because it had low cultivation or its power surpassed even the snake head.

 

Quze answered concisely, “I’m not quite sure.”

 

The snake head didn’t inquire further, thinking that in this world, apart from the two deities in heaven, whose aura was immeasurable, everyone else was of no concern.

 

The snake head gradually disappeared into thin air.

 

Quze withdrew the barrier and stood motionless in the moonlight.

 

When he returned, he saw Si Lan leaning against a tree trunk, eyes closed and resting.

 

Most likely, it was his footsteps that had awakened Si Lan. Si Lan opened his eyes, looked at Quze, and softly said, “Rest a while.”

 

Quze didn’t say anything, settled down next to Si Lan, and began meditating with crossed legs.

 

After a while, Quze spoke in a low voice, “Supreme Lord, have you ever considered reshaping my arm?”

 

He thought Si Lan was asleep, but Si Lan responded with a drowsy tone, “I have considered it, but I can’t do it.”

 

Was it that he couldn’t do it, or he didn’t want to do it?

 

Clearly, for Si Lan, reshaping an arm was a trivial task, yet he said he couldn’t do it.

 

Quze chuckled self-deprecatingly.

 

He didn’t understand why the Demon Lord, who had always claimed to govern the Demon Realm with “benevolence,” had been so cruel to him, severing his right arm.

 

This Demon Lord, who had always advocated ruling the Demon Realm with “benevolence,” was inexplicably cruel only to him.

---

T/N: Hey there! 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 16

 

Generally feeling safe, the two-headed Enchanting Serpent led a group of smaller Enchanting Serpents and stopped not far from Si Lan and the others. It vomited a mouthful of blood and lay gasping for breath on the ground. The other smaller serpents gathered around it, hissing and chattering.

 

Xuyi drew his longsword, roaring as he lunged towards the two-headed Enchanting Serpent in the middle, “Serpent demon, pay for my master and mistress’s lives!” Until this moment, he believed that his master and mistress had perished, and that the main culprits responsible for the state of Xuanling Mountain were the Enchanting Serpent clan.

 

Si Lan grabbed Xuyi’s elbow, “Xuyi, they are innocent too.”

 

“How can they be innocent? I’ve seen them attack Xuanling Mountain repeatedly with my own eyes!”

 

Si Lan had no choice but to explain truthfully, “Xuyi, in reality, your master and mistress passed away more than a month ago. The person you see now is just a puppet controlled by someone else. The mastermind is holding the Serpent Mother captive deep within Xuanling Mountain, which forced the Enchanting Serpent clan to attack Xuanling Mountain repeatedly.”

 

Xuyi found it difficult to accept these words, his eyes widened, and his lips moved but no sound came out.

 

Other disciples of Xuanling Mountain gathered around upon hearing this, unable to accept the revelation.

 

“Is this true? Master truly passed away a month ago?”

 

“So, the master who spoke to me over this past month… was a puppet?”

 

Si Lan’s gaze was heavy, and he nodded.

 

Xuyi, struggling to contain his grief, asked in a measured tone, “Elder Sī, you’re not lying to me, are you?” He still didn’t want to believe Si Lan’s words, but his instincts told him that Si Lan wasn’t lying.

 

“No.”

 

After hearing this “No,” Xuyi couldn’t hold back his tears any longer. He angrily dropped his longsword and began punching a nearby tree in a fit of rage.

 

A month ago, Xuyi remembered that his master returned from the Yao Valley not long before announcing he was going into seclusion for cultivation. He had only cultivated for a few days before inexplicably leaving again.

 

When he returned, his behavior was unusual. However, his master had always been aloof, and Xuanling Mountain’s disciples rarely saw him, so they didn’t think much of it at the time.

 

If he had been more observant back then, perhaps he would have noticed something was wrong with his master and prevented his body from being controlled by that creature for over a month.

 

The more Xuyi thought about it, the more he regretted it. His knuckles were bleeding, but he couldn’t feel the pain as he continued to punch the tree.

 

Seeing this, his fellow disciples quickly intervened, trying to calm him down.

 

Si Lan also tried to soothe his emotions, “Xuyi, I believe that Lóu Yù in the realm of spirits wouldn’t want you all to grieve excessively. For now, you need to heal your injuries, recover your strength, and rebuild Xuanling Mountain with your fellow disciples.”

 

Perhaps the mention of rebuilding Xuanling Mountain brought Xuyi back to his senses. He panted and asked, “Elder Sī, do you know who killed my master?”

 

Si Lan shook his head, “I have no clue, but that person seems to have some connection with the Enchanting Serpent clan.” Téng Yīng Huā was that person’s backbone, cultivated with the blood of the Enchanting Serpent. The mastermind behind all this was either a member of the Enchanting Serpent clan or had blood ties with them.

 

“Cough…,” the two-headed Enchanting Serpent suddenly coughed and continued, “Within the Enchanting Serpent clan, there is a rumor, though I can’t confirm its authenticity. The ancestors of the Enchanting Serpent clan were the Nine-Headed Snake Deities from ancient times. It’s said that when Heaven’s judgment fell upon the Nine-Headed Snake clan, the members of the clan, in an attempt to appease Heaven, captured the Nine-Headed Snake that had brought calamity upon them. They skinned and dismembered it, cutting off its nine heads and sealed it using secret techniques, thus ending Heaven’s wrath.”

 

The Nine-Headed Snake clan was one of the Four Great Ancient Demonic Clans, and the large serpents within the clan had nine heads. The Nine-Headed Snake that caused trouble was the most notorious one, known as the Nine Infants.

 

It killed Biān Ràng, one of the Three Sons of Heaven, which provoked Heaven’s judgment and nearly led to the extinction of the Nine-Headed Snake clan.

 

Although Heaven’s judgment was later revoked, since then, the young serpents born in the clan had fewer heads, and their magical abilities became weaker. As of now, there hasn’t been a Nine-Headed Snake for tens of thousands of years.

 

“Do you suspect that the person behind all this is the ancient Nine-Headed Snake?” Si Lan asked.

 

The two-headed Enchanting Serpent nodded, “Because only the Nine Infants would hate us so much… to the extent of using the blood of our clan to resurrect itself.”

 

After speaking, the two-headed Enchanting Serpent coughed up more blood and collapsed on the ground.

 

Si Lan finally noticed that one of the two heads of the Two-Headed Enchanting Serpent had been severed, and the wound on its neck was still bleeding profusely, with the lower half of its body covered in blood. It had lost a significant amount of blood and was on the brink of collapse.

 

The group of smaller Enchanting Serpents anxiously surrounded it, trying to save it, but they were helpless.

 

Si Lan knelt down, and as the Two-Headed Enchanting Serpent saw him approach, it instinctively recoiled slightly but relaxed when it realized that Si Lan was there to help.

 

Si Lan used his magic to tend to the Two-Headed Enchanting Serpent’s neck, quickly stopping the bleeding and aiding in the healing of the wound where one of the heads had been severed. Although the injury wasn’t completely healed, it was enough to keep the Two-Headed Enchanting Serpent alive for the time being.

 

The Two-Headed Serpent felt guilty and said in a hoarse voice, “I should have listened to you.”

 

“Listened to which part?” Si Lan had said so much earlier, and the Two-Headed Serpent didn’t seem to pay much attention.

 

The Two-Headed Serpent looked embarrassed and lowered its head.

 

“Si Lan asked, “Has the Serpent Mother been found since Xuanling Mountain was split in half?”

 

“That mountain was split by Téng Yīng Huā, and the Serpent Mother… has not been found,” the Two-Headed Enchanting Serpent replied, feeling even more embarrassed.

 

“Is the Serpent Mother’s aura still present?”

 

“Yes.”

 

Si Lan remembered that Song Guang had mentioned capturing the Serpent Mother to unlock the Golden Jade Immortal Box. Therefore, finding the location of the Golden Jade Immortal Box would also lead to the Serpent Mother.

 

However, Si Lan had never heard Lóu Yù mention such a treasure in Xuanling Mountain, and he couldn’t understand why Jiǔ Yīng wanted to unlock the Golden Jade Immortal Box.

 

“Do the Enchanting Serpent clan have any detailed records about Jiǔ Yīng?” Si Lan inquired.

 

The Two-Headed Enchanting Serpent shook its head, “Perhaps Jiǔ Yīng’s sins were so great that there are no detailed records about him within the clan. We have only heard about Jiǔ Yīng through oral tradition passed down from generation to generation. Over the past tens of thousands of years, these oral traditions have turned into rumors, and it’s unclear which parts are true and which are false.”

 

Si Lan frowned and asked, “Do you know what the Golden Jade Immortal Box is?”

 

“I don’t know. The Serpent Mother only mentioned that the person wants to unlock the Golden Jade Immortal Box, and even the Serpent Mother herself may not know what’s inside the box.” After a pause, the Two-Headed Enchanting Serpent glanced at the Xuanling Mountain disciples, “But the people of Xuanling Mountain should be aware of this.”

 

Upon hearing this, Xuyi clenched his teeth and stared at the Two-Headed Enchanting Serpent with a fierce expression. “Don’t spread rumors here. How could we possibly know what the Golden Jade Immortal Box is? Moreover, the successive leaders of Xuanling Mountain have never coveted rare treasures and wouldn’t keep such things hidden!”

 

The surrounding Enchanting Serpent disciples, in response to Xuyi’s harsh tone, extended their serpentine tongues, hissing and making threatening gestures.

 

Xuanling Mountain disciples drew their swords, ready to confront the Enchanting Serpents.

 

Observing this situation, Si Lan couldn’t help but touch his forehead. “Enough for today. Let’s take a rest.”

 

If they continued, both sides would suffer casualties. Si Lan had expended a significant amount of his internal energy and knew that a tough battle was ahead.

 

Si Lan sat under a tree and began to meditate, with his two young disciples sitting obediently beside him, following his example.

 

The disciples of Xuanling Mountain and the Enchanting Serpent clan, realizing that Si Lan had spoken, decided to disengage and rest. Both sides had casualties, and a fight wouldn’t benefit anyone.

 

Late into the night, Si Lan suddenly felt hungry. He opened his eyes and saw that everyone was asleep. Si Lan rubbed his belly and quietly left, planning to find some wild fruits to satiate his hunger in the forest.

 

“Little White Dragon, are you hungry?”

 

Si Lan noticed that the usually talkative Little White Dragon in his pocket was unusually quiet today. He couldn’t resist taking the dragon out of his pocket.

 

Under the moonlight, Little White Dragon’s silver scales glistened. Its pink horns were particularly adorable, and it was sleeping soundly with its eyes closed.

 

Si Lan smiled and put Little White Dragon back into his pocket.

 

This little creature was quite composed, considering all it had been through today. Truly the child of a real dragon.

 

Si Lan searched in the forest for a while but couldn’t find any edible wild fruits. However, there was a small stream nearby. He crouched by the stream, cupped his hands to collect some clear water, and splashed it on his face.

 

The continuous pressure of the past few days had left him mentally and physically exhausted. His face seemed a bit haggard.

 

Staring at his reflection in the stream, he let out a sigh.

 

The moonlight illuminated the pebbles on the streambed, making them visible, and even the fish resting on the riverbed could be seen.

 

It had been centuries since he last had grilled fish. Now in the mortal realm, without anyone from the demon world watching him, he thought it should be safe to catch a fish.

 

Thinking about this, he used his magic to catch two fish. He was about to start a small fire when he heard voices up ahead.

 

“Senior Brother, do you really believe what that demon said?”

 

“He was a good friend of our master. He wouldn’t deceive us.”

 

“But he’s ultimately a person from the demon world. We can’t be sure he won’t harm Xuanling Mountain.”

 

“Young Junior Sister, I understand your concerns, but what does Xuanling Mountain have that would make Si Lan think about it?”

 

“Well, you didn’t see how he was healing that demon earlier, right? They looked like they’ve known each other for a long time. And it was from him that we first heard about our master’s death. What if he’s deceiving us? That would be terrifying.”

 

Xuyi stayed silent, not saying a word.

 

“Yes, Senior Brother, you can’t lose your judgment just because that demon looks good.”

 

Xuyi blushed slightly and said, “I’m not saying this because of his appearance. I just feel that people have deep biases against the demon world and have spread many malicious rumors about him.”

 

“All those things about him are not just rumors; they are real events that happened

 

 in the past. Have you seen the little demon in the green robe by his side? They say that’s his son.”

 

“Is it true?”

 

“Yes, it’s true, but there are two different claims about the mother of that little rascal. One is that the mother is a red blood jade spirit, and the other is that the little rascal was born from the big demon himself.”

 

“…,” Si Lan almost choked.

 

In his arms, the little white dragon moved, opening his robe and revealing a pair of cold, golden eyes, glaring at Si Lan.

---

T/N: Hey there! 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 15

 

The group of cultivators and Xuanling Sect disciples who woke up from the illusion were initially shocked by the scene before them, instantly thrown into confusion.

 

“This… how can there be so much blood here?”

 

“The ground beneath our feet is collapsing!”

 

The ground trembled, cracking open in several places, and everyone fell into it unprepared. At the same time, rocks tumbled down from the mountain, and numerous strange lights resembling arrows rushed toward the cultivators.

 

Subconsciously, Si Lan extended his wings and blocked the rocks and lights, silently reciting an incantation to rescue the fallen people from the cracks.

 

After everyone reached the shore, the more powerful spellcasters immediately flew away on their swords, while those with weaker skills couldn’t even stabilize their footing.

 

Si Lan had to use a teleportation spell to move all the less skilled spellcasters to the foot of the mountain.

 

“Quze, take Xie Li and wait for me at the foot of the mountain!” Si Lan retracted his wings. The incident had caught him off guard, and he had momentarily forgotten to conceal his identity, revealing his pitch-black feathered wings. He hoped no one had noticed his true form.

 

Quze’s expression remained unclear, “Understood.”

 

After ensuring the safety of the cultivators, Si Lan cast a spell and flew to Songqing Pavilion. He pushed open the door and saw the bride, adorned with a phoenix crown and dr4p3d in rosy attire, sitting calmly at the dressing table, seemingly oblivious to everything happening outside.

 

Si Lan approached the bride’s side, grabbed her wrist, and urgently said, “Miss Yunlan, forgive me for the intrusion, but Xuanling Mountain is in trouble. Please, follow me and leave.”

 

However, Yunlan pushed his hand away and calmly replied, “No, I will wait for Senior Brother.”

 

“Miss Yunlan, he is already dead,” Si Lan hesitated for a moment but decided to reveal the truth.

 

Yet, Yunlan’s expression remained unchanged. “I know he’s already dead.”

 

Si Lan was puzzled by her reaction.

 

At that moment, the ground beneath them suddenly shook, causing everything on the dressing table to scatter. Si Lan didn’t have time to worry about that. He grabbed Yunlan’s arm again. “Please, come with me for now.”

 

“Sorry,” Yunlan suddenly said with no apparent context, pushing Si Lan’s hand away. “Bringing you here was my only choice. However, I have only one wish in my life, and that is to marry Senior Brother.”

 

So even though she knew Lou Yu was a living corpse, she didn’t care.

 

Yunlan smiled absentmindedly.

 

Si Lan suddenly realized something, unable to comprehend it. “You were aware of the plan to capture the Snake Mother and lure the Enchanting Serpent for the Tengying Flower’s sacrifice?”

 

“That was my doing,” Yunlan said as she noticed the incense had gone out. She ignited it with a flick of her fingertip. In the wafting blue smoke, her face appeared pale, her lips a vibrant and bewitching crimson. “I promised to help that person capture the Snake Mother and lure the Enchanting Serpent, and in return, he promised to help me fulfill my dream of marrying Senior Brother.”

 

“I don’t know who he is; I only know that he can make my wish come true.” Yunlan turned to look at herself in the bronze mirror, whispering, “I genuinely love Senior Brother. I’ve loved him for over two hundred years. I don’t crave immortality or eternal youth; I only wish to marry Senior Brother, even if it’s just for one day as his bride. So, Lord Si Lan, please grant my wish.”

 

As she spoke, Yunlan gazed at Si Lan through the bronze mirror, her eyes filled with sorrow and tears, each drop of blood staining her fair and jade-like face, creating a haunting and heart-wrenching sight.

 

Si Lan was stunned, unable to find the words to respond, memories of what Lou Yu had said about Yunlan flashing through his mind.

 

“My junior sisters and I have been practicing together since childhood, and our relationship is quite good.”

 

“My junior sister is gentle and intelligent, but unfortunately, I have embraced the path of ruthlessness, detached from worldly affairs.”

 

“In this lifetime, I will ultimately let down my junior sister.”

 

Si Lan hadn’t expected Yunlan’s obsession to run so deep. While he had married three wives, his emotional attachments were almost non-existent.

 

When they passed away, he felt sadness, but it was nothing like this. He couldn’t comprehend how deep one’s emotions had to be to become so obsessed, to the point of disregarding even one’s life.

 

“Lou Yu probably wouldn’t agree to what you’re doing.”

 

“In his entire life, everything depends on me, except for his feelings. Let him rely on me one last time.”

 

Si Lan sighed, “Miss Yunlan, it would be better if Lou Yu’s body is laid to rest as soon as possible.”

 

“After today, I will let Senior Brother rest.”

 

After her words, Yunlan smiled absentmindedly and put on a red veil. The earth shook, but she seemed unaffected as she walked towards the door with an ethereal step.

 

Si Lan turned to follow her gaze and saw that the fake Lou Yu had appeared at the door.

 

The fake Lou Yu walked slowly towards Yunlan, smiled at her, and had warm features, but his complexion gradually turned pale, revealing scars. The bloodstains on his neck slowly became visible.

 

The black aura controlling him departed.

 

In the next moment, he fell into Yunlan’s arms. She held the already cold body, and tears of blood flowed down her cheeks through the red veil, dropping onto his face.

 

“I want to be buried with Senior Brother at Xuanling Mountain…”

 

Born at Xuanling Mountain, raised at Xuanling Mountain, being buried together at Xuanling Mountain was her greatest extravagance.

 

Si Lan had initially intended to forcibly take Yunlan away, but at this moment, he changed his mind.

 

Perhaps, for Yunlan, being Senior Brother’s bride for a day and being buried together with him was her final plea.

 

Taking away that last hope would likely make her unable to go on.

 

Xuyi and a group of disciples arrived, witnessing the scene of Lou Yu lying in Yunlan’s arms. Their faces changed.

 

“What happened to our Master?”

 

Xuyi was about to rush into the room, but Si Lan quickly stopped him. “Xuanling Mountain is collapsing. You need to lead others to safety.” The disciples had already suffered severe injuries from the illusion and couldn’t stay any longer, or they might perish.

 

“Is Master… is he alright?” Xuyi’s voice trembled slightly. When he woke up from the illusion, he saw Xuanling Mountain collapsing and his Master unconscious. His heart couldn’t bear the weight of these events.

 

Si Lan didn’t answer his question but said, “Xuyi, you need to shoulder the responsibility now. Lead your junior brothers and sisters to safety.”

 

“Are Master and Mistress not leaving?” After asking this question, Xuyi suddenly understood what was happening and tears welled up in his eyes.

 

He knelt down and led a group of disciples to kowtow three times in the direction of Lou Yu and Yunlan.

 

“Master and Mistress, your disciples will surely seek vengeance for you and revitalize Xuanling Sect.”

 

In the distance, the Enchanting Serpent Clan was still fighting the Tengying Flower, and faint cries of pain could be heard. At this moment, dark clouds covered the sky, thunder rolled, and Xuanling Mountain looked like a boat in a turbulent sea, swaying dangerously.

 

Si Lan created a massive barrier, protecting the injured disciples, and used magic to fly them away from Xuanling Mountain. They had barely left when the mountain split in two with a deafening crash.

 

Bang…

 

The left side of the mountain suddenly exploded, sending countless fragments flying. Faint cries of the Enchanting Serpent’s pain could be heard.

 

Si Lan turned to look but couldn’t bear to watch anymore. He turned away with a heavy heart.

 

Fortunately, there was a forest at the foot of Xuanling Mountain. Si Lan and Xuyi settled the injured disciples there.

 

Quze and Xie Li were already waiting there.

 

Upon seeing Si Lan, Quze and Xie Li rushed forward.

 

“My Lord, are you alright?”

 

Si Lan shook his head.

 

Several other cultivators also approached. They didn’t know Si Lan’s true identity, but from what had just happened, they could tell he was no ordinary person.

 

“What’s going on with Xuanling Sect? Where is Master Lou Yu?”

 

Si Lan chose his words carefully. “Xuanling Sect will handle today’s events properly. Please focus on recovering from your injuries.”

 

His response was vague, leaving them feeling uncertain.

 

Frustrated with Xuanling Sect, the disciples from Tianji Sect expressed their displeasure.

 

“We came to attend a wedding, and we almost lost our lives. What kind of place is Xuanling Sect?”

 

“I guess they’ve accumulated too much bad karma, and those demons specifically chose a ‘good day’ to seek revenge.”

 

“Even now, Master Lou Yu hasn’t given us an explanation. It seems like they don’t need our help, so I suggest we leave and not disrupt Master Lou Yu’s demon-slaying efforts.”

 

Upon hearing the sarcastic words from the Tianji Sect disciples, Xuyi couldn’t help but clench his fists, wanting to confront them. Si Lan, however, reached out and stopped him, shaking his head.

 

Xuyi sighed with frustration, turning away to hide his crimson eyes. He couldn’t accept everything that was happening and wondered if this was all just a nightmare, a false illusion woven by the Enchanting Serpent.

 

Why else would Xuanling Mountain be collapsing?

 

And how could his noble Master suddenly depart from this world?

 

All these events were causing great distress to Xuyi and the other Xuanling Sect disciples, who sat despondently on the ground.

 

“Where’s Senior Brother Song Guang?”

 

“I don’t know. I haven’t seen Senior Brother Song Guang all day.”

 

“Let’s forget about it. We’ll go back to Tianji Sect and wait for Senior Brother Song Guang.”

 

Under the influence of Tianji Sect’s disciples, other cultivators also revealed their dissatisfaction with Xuanling Sect and departed.

 

Xuyi couldn’t help but sneer, “Weren’t they showing a different attitude just a while ago?”

Earlier at the banquet, they all spoke eloquently about the Immortal Jade Wine, using honeyed words to captivate their audience. But now that trouble had arisen, they not only refused to help but also taunted and ridiculed.

 

Having lived in the realm of magic for over a thousand years, Si Lan was no stranger to such situations. As the foremost sect in the cultivation world, Xuanling Sect had enjoyed admiration in the open, but they had undoubtedly faced slander in the shadows.

 

That’s why Si Lan hadn’t immediately informed them of Lou Yu’s passing, fearing they might use the situation of Lou Yu’s body being manipulated to discredit Xuanling Sect.

 

“Xuyi, how are the injuries of our disciples?”

 

“They are not in mortal danger, but… Master and Mistress…”

 

Xuyi raised his head, gazing into the distance. Xuanling Mountain now only had half of its body left, and the red banners fluttering in the rolling dark smoke were struggling in despair, emitting mournful cries.

 

The once heavenly realm had now become a hell on earth.

 

Xuyi couldn’t help but wipe away a tear.

 

Si Lan stood with his hands behind his back, his brows furrowed, his expression grave.

 

Tengying Flower was created by the mastermind to rebuild their spine, but besides the spine, they needed a physical body to fully reconstruct their true form.

 

So, whose body had that person set their sights on?

 

Si Lan lost in thought. At that moment, he saw the double-headed Enchanting Serpent leading a group of little Enchanting Serpents as they fled towards them.

---

T/N: Hey there! 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~

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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

 

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