Qian Renxue withdrew the complicated emotions on her face.
She returned to her usual cold expression.
Turning toward Snake Lance and Porcupinefish, she asked:
"Has there been any news about that Immortal Herb Compendium?"
"Elder Chrysanthemum has already begun transcribing it. In a few days, it will be delivered to Heaven Dou City,"
Porcupinefish replied respectfully.
"Good, then make sure it is done quickly."
With her hands clasped behind her back, Qian Renxue nodded slightly.
"And as for Yu Luomian's side, arrangements can be made sooner. It will coincide with the royal mourning period—an auspicious sign to counterbalance the grief."
Snake Lance answered respectfully:
"Understood. The invitation will be sent immediately."
Qian Renxue inclined her head again.
"Let's go back. Xue Ye will most likely fly into a thunderous rage."
---
Under the escort of Porcupinefish and Snake Lance, Qian Renxue quickly returned to the Crown Prince's residence.
She then once again assumed the guise of Xue Qinghe.
In haste, she rushed to Anle Pavilion to attend Xue Beng's funeral and handle the aftermath.
Within less than half a day—
The news that the Fourth Prince Xue Beng had been killed on the spot by the wanted criminal Tang San while fighting over a woman in a brothel had already spread throughout the streets and alleys, becoming the talk of the city.
The Emperor Xue Ye, who had only two sons left to him, was naturally furious beyond measure.
Of his four sons, three had now perished.
The deaths of the Second Prince and the Third Prince had remained unresolved for years, the murderers never found.
But Xue Beng's death—
It had taken place in a brothel, in front of countless eyes, with Tang San himself loosing the fatal arrow.
How could Emperor Xue Ye possibly endure such humiliation?
He immediately gave orders: the entire nation was to search for Tang San's whereabouts.
Once found, he could be captured or killed on the spot.
Anyone providing valuable intelligence would be rewarded with ten thousand gold coins. Whoever could bring back Tang San alive—or his head—would be granted the title of Count of the Empire.
As the order spread, portraits of Tang San and his father Tang Hao flooded the cities and towns.
Starting from Heaven Dou City, they rapidly spread throughout the entire empire.
It could be said that—
The names of Tang San and his father had already gone beyond the circle of spirit masters and entered the homes of ordinary common folk.
Emperor Xue Ye even went to Yuexuan personally to demand an explanation.
When the Clear Sky Sect learned of this matter, they were enraged but quickly washed their hands of it.
Tang Hao and his son had long since been expelled from the Clear Sky Sect.
In a single sentence:
"Every debt has its debtor. If you want revenge, seek Tang Hao and Tang San yourself. It has nothing to do with us."
The sect still had to remain hidden.
---
Within the court, the previously neutral nobles all began rallying behind Xue Qinghe.
Even Prince Xue Xing, who had always protected Xue Beng, withdrew from public life, avoiding state affairs.
For a time, the Crown Prince's power and influence became unmatched.
Everyone now knew that Emperor Xue Ye had no other choice—the Crown Prince was the sole heir.
---
As for the upheaval in the Heaven Dou Empire—
Ye Qiu cared nothing about it.
As if nothing had happened, he accompanied Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing in cultivation.
From time to time, he would visit Heaven Dou Imperial Academy, call out the beautiful serpent woman, and indulge himself in her serpentine form, savoring that unique tightness and smoothness.
Not long after Xue Beng's death—
Ye Qiu obtained the Immortal Herb Compendium he had been waiting for.
---
Noon, inside the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect.
Ye Qiu sat in a pavilion, flipping through Chrysanthemum Douluo's handwritten notes.
One had to admit, Chrysanthemum Douluo's drawings were quite detailed. Even when transcribing this knowledge, his reverence for the immortal herbs was evident.
Just then, Ning Rongrong ran out, her petite body diving into Ye Qiu's arms.
Sitting on his lap like a cushion, her cheeks flushed as she wriggled her waist slightly.
Ye Qiu rolled his eyes.
He wrapped an arm around her slender waist and warned:
"Careful. If you get me worked up, no amount of crying or begging will save you."
"I-I just wanted to sit more comfortably… don't!"
Ning Rongrong whispered quickly, feeling Ye Qiu tilt his head toward her. She hurriedly stopped him, her face red as she froze, not daring to move again.
---
"What are you doing out here instead of cultivating?"
Ye Qiu kept his eyes on the book, his face pressed slightly against her fair cheek.
"I've been cultivating all morning… Can't I come out for a little break?"
Nestled in his arms, Ning Rongrong took a soft breath, her spoiled expression gone, replaced with tender affection.
Suddenly, Ye Qiu's gaze brightened at the page.
"Fine. But once you've rested, go back to cultivating."
"I know."
Ning Rongrong pouted gently, answering softly.
But hesitation flickered in her eyes. She bit her lip, wanting to speak yet holding back.
Though she hadn't left the sect these past days—
The wind of Tang San's wanted order had, of course, reached even the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect outside Heaven Dou City.
In a delicate voice, she called:
"You big liar…"
"Hm?"
Ye Qiu closed the book, lowering his head at her conflicted look, raising a brow.
"What is it? If you've got something to say, just say it."
Biting her lips again, Ning Rongrong asked cautiously:
"You big liar, that time you asked me for information on Xue Beng… what was it for?"
"Why suddenly bring that up?"
Ye Qiu asked, puzzled.
"Because Father already knows about it… so I wanted to ask you."
Ning Rongrong straightened, hugging Ye Qiu's neck, her eyes full of worry.
"Don't worry. Uncle Ning won't care about such a small matter."
Ye Qiu chuckled, rubbing her head. He pinched her cheeks until her mouth opened slightly, then lowered his head to give her a light kiss—lingering just a bit.
"Alright. Go back and cultivate. I need to head out."
Her face flushed, lips glistening, Ning Rongrong nodded and stepped away from his embrace.
She smoothed his clothes and whispered:
"Then be careful."
"Mm."
Ye Qiu stood, just about to leave, when he smacked his forehead with sudden realization.
"Oh, right—Rongrong, help me with another matter. Look into the Sensitive Clan for me."
Ning Rongrong blinked, then pursed her lips and nodded.
In a soft, worried tone she said:
"You big liar… if something's too difficult, you can tell me. I-I can ask Grandpa Sword and the others to help."
Ye Qiu laughed helplessly, squeezing her cheek again.
"Got it, my little princess. Now, go cultivate. I'll be off!"
With those words, Ye Qiu shot into the sky, flying into the distance.
Watching him leave, Ning Rongrong's expression grew worried.
Clenching her small fists, she hurried off to arrange what he had asked.
Of course she knew—Xue Beng's death must have been tied to Ye Qiu.
But she didn't care.
Her only concern was whether her man would be safe, whether he might be hurt.
---
Sunset Forest.
In the valley of the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well.
Ye Qiu and the grandfather-granddaughter pair of Dugu Bo and Dugu Yan gathered together.
After studying the Immortal Herb Compendium, Ye Qiu had immediately brought Dugu Yan here from Heaven Dou Imperial Academy.
By sheer luck, among the remaining immortal herbs—
There truly was one that perfectly suited her.
"Yan-jie, this is the immortal herb I mentioned that suits you best—it is called Dragon Soul Immortal Algae."
The three sat at a table. Ye Qiu presented the herb before Dugu Yan.
"It carries a trace of dragon soul. Once you consume it, that dragon soul will merge with your martial spirit. Without question, it will cause your Jade Phosphor Serpent to evolve."
Holding the herb as though it were a treasured dish, Ye Qiu offered it forward.
The roots of the Dragon Soul Immortal Algae gathered densely like dragon scales, green leaves overlapping, spreading along the ground like jade plates of moss. At its center rose a slender golden stalk, from which hung nine verdant leaves like green blossoms. At the heart of each "flower" swirled golden mist, within which tiny dragons flickered and coiled. The entire immortal herb glowed faintly with a golden radiance.
"Wonderful! Thank you, Xiao Qiu!"
Dugu Yan's exquisite face was alight with joy as she carefully accepted the immortal herb, as if cradling the most precious treasure in the world. She leaned forward and planted a soft kiss on Ye Qiu's warm lips.
Seeing this, Ye Qiu merely smiled faintly.
"Yan-jie, you don't need to thank me. This herb belonged to the Dugu family to begin with."
Dugu Yan pressed her delicate figure tightly against Ye Qiu's broad shoulders, her smile blooming like a flower.
"What do you mean by 'ours'? I already belong to you. What's mine is naturally yours too."
She was entirely immersed in joy and sweetness, utterly ignoring the darkening expression of Dugu Bo, who stood nearby with a face turning almost black.
"Hmph! Why must these immortal herbs always grow into such strange and ridiculous shapes?"
Dugu Bo snorted coldly as he studied the herb.
He had guarded this treasure ground full of immortal plants for so many years, yet had never known their effects or methods of use. The thought made him more and more frustrated.
Just as he raised a hand, intending to poke at the mist within the flower's heart, the golden vapor suddenly drifted away on its own, as though it possessed a will.
"Grandfather, don't you dare damage this immortal herb!"
Dugu Yan held the plant tightly with both hands, her face full of care. She lifted her eyes to glare at Dugu Bo in mild reproach.
"Yan'er, I hadn't even touched it yet…"
Watching his granddaughter so nervous over the plant, Dugu Bo felt his chest ache.
Turning, he saw his Nine-Section Jade Serpent on his shoulder also staring longingly at the herb. His anger surged even more.
I haven't even touched it, and you dare covet it? Infuriating!
With a scowl, he slapped the serpent several times. The Nine-Section Jade Serpent hissed pitifully, its cries full of grievance and protest.
If he kept hitting it, the serpent might actually rebel against its master.
"Haha… it's just for safety, Grandfather."
Dugu Yan gave her grandfather an embarrassed, playful smile before turning to Ye Qiu, her eyes brimming with anticipation.
"Husband… how exactly should I take this immortal herb?"
"You only need to gently draw that cluster of golden mist into your body. Then circulate your soul power slowly, allowing the medicinal effect to flow through your limbs and bones."
Ye Qiu explained with a soft laugh, his tone carrying a hint of expectation.
"Yan-jie, hurry and absorb it."
"Mhm!"
Dugu Yan nodded firmly, then skipped lightly to a quiet spot, sat cross-legged, and followed Ye Qiu's instructions. Slowly, she inhaled the golden mist into her mouth.
The moment the mist was absorbed, the Dragon Soul Immortal Algae seemed to lose all of its essence.
In the blink of an eye, it withered and rotted at an imperceptible speed, crumbling to dust and scattering in the air.
Dugu Yan immediately closed her eyes, entering focused cultivation. Her expression grew calm and serene.
Hiss!
Behind her appeared the martial soul, the Jade Phosphor Serpent, bathed in the same hazy golden mist.
"Young man, there won't be any problems, will there?"
Dugu Bo steadied himself and asked worriedly as he watched his granddaughter.
Dugu Yan was the person he cherished most in this world.
Ye Qiu smiled reassuringly.
"Senior Dugu, rest easy. Yan-jie now has an attached soul bone. You don't need to worry about uncontrolled power surges causing poisonous backlash."
As he finished speaking, Ye Qiu pulled out a small potato-like fruit from somewhere, placed it on the table, and gently pushed it toward Dugu Bo.
"Senior Dugu, I also prepared an immortal herb for you… This is the Earth Dragon Golden Gourd. It also contains the essence of the dragon—"
Before he could finish, Dugu Bo interrupted with a strange chuckle.
"Jie jie… you do have some conscience after all."
Before Ye Qiu could even explain, Dugu Bo tossed the potato-like gourd back to him disdainfully.
"Eh?"
Ye Qiu blinked, puzzled.
Why would Dugu Bo refuse? The Earth Dragon Golden Gourd should be immensely beneficial to him.
Dugu Bo lifted his head toward the sky, his voice filled with weariness and helplessness.
"I'm old. From here on, everything depends on you young people…"
"Senior…" Ye Qiu tilted his head, smiling awkwardly. "Can you speak in human words, please?"
"…"
Dugu Bo's face darkened instantly.
On his shoulder, the Nine-Section Jade Serpent, with no place to vent its pent-up energy, suddenly lunged toward Ye Qiu.
Smack!
Ye Qiu immediately summoned his martial soul and slapped it away.
His Ten Thousand Venom Fangs had long since stored the serpent's venom. If pushed too far, he wouldn't hesitate to bite back—turning the serpent's own poison against it.
---
After Dugu Yan fully absorbed the Dragon Soul Immortal Algae, her cultivation rose from level 42 to level 45.
More importantly, her martial soul underwent a true evolution.
From the Jade Phosphor Serpent Emperor, it had taken its first step toward transforming into a dragon. At the same time, the issue of poisonous backlash was perfectly resolved.
Her martial soul's quality now even surpassed that of Dugu Bo's.
The external soul bone, Crimson Blood Serpent Scales, also fused seamlessly with her, making it impossible for anyone to ever take it away again.
Ye Qiu had originally intended the Earth Dragon Golden Gourd for Dugu Bo, but he refused.
In Dugu Bo's words: He was old. The future lay with the next generation.
The Dugu family's bloodline was already dwindling. Instead of dragging out his own years with medicine, it would be better to leave such treasures for a future great-grandson. If the child awakened only an ordinary Jade Phosphor Serpent—or even another average Serpent Emperor like himself—then no medicine could save them.
He had already endured a lifetime of suffering. There was no need for his descendants to repeat it.
Now that his poison was temporarily relieved, he was already satisfied.
Dugu Yan tried hard to persuade him, but it was useless.
Ye Qiu didn't press the issue either. He knew he would eventually find a true cure for Dugu Bo's poison.
With Dugu Bo's current health, he could easily last until then.
---
Time passed slowly.
The setting sun glowed crimson.
Once again, Dugu Bo was driven out by Ye Qiu and Dugu Yan, left wandering outside like a lonely, homeless old man. But truthfully, Dugu Bo didn't mind.
Because what he wanted most… was to hold a great-grandson.
Inside the room, in the bath—Ye Qiu was tightly entwined by a green, snake-tailed beauty.
Her tail coiled firmly around his waist, while Dugu Yan clung to his neck. Their foreheads pressed together, and a deep green scale glimmered on her brow, radiating coolness against Ye Qiu's skin.
"Husband~"
The serpent beauty flicked her tongue, brushing Ye Qiu's cheeks, her face flushed red.
Ye Qiu's hand roamed across her fine scales—smooth, cool, and slightly slippery to the touch.
"Mmm…"
Dugu Yan let out a soft moan.
Her serpent tail tightened and loosened around him in rhythm, drawing warmth into her scales. The once icy coils gradually heated as they writhed and shifted against him.
After a long while.
Ye Qiu, still holding Dugu Yan by her slender waist, wiped the sweat from his body and carried her into the bedroom.
He lay down on the bed with her.
Even though she no longer had much strength, Dugu Yan still refused to behave, twisting about on Ye Qiu's body like a snake, making him restless.
"Alright, Yanyan, stop playing with fire. Otherwise, don't even think about training tomorrow."
Ye Qiu rolled his eyes and hugged her smooth, curvy body tightly into his arms.
Today, he had truly become Xu Xian.
Hearing his words, Dugu Yan obediently stopped moving and lay nestled in Ye Qiu's chest. Her jade-green nails traced lazy circles across his chest.
Her eyes narrowed, a blissful smile of satisfaction spreading across her face.
---
After Avalanche's death.
On the seventh day, in the morning.
Above Sunset Forest, two streaks of light flew swiftly across the sky.
Behind Ye Qiu spread black wings glowing faintly, aided by the flying ability of his right leg bone.
Beside him, Dugu Bo's dark-green hair and beard streamed in the wind, his robe fluttering. His face carried an expression of ease, and he occasionally made teasing remarks.
He slowed his pace to fly alongside Ye Qiu.
Then he raised his hand and gave Ye Qiu's poisonous body a firm pat.
Thump, thump.
"Jie jie jie…"
Dugu Bo cackled strangely, his face full of mockery. "Kid, your speed still isn't good enough. You need more practice."
On Ye Qiu's venomous face, the white markings shifted and twisted, like two white flames flickering.
His expression darkened, and he cursed angrily:
"Old man, don't get cocky! Next time you dare stand on my back, I'll use my Eight Spider Spears to blow up your old chrysanthemum!"
"Heh! Brat, you still dare call yourself 'this daddy' in front of me?!"
Dugu Bo raised his brows, chuckled, and tapped Ye Qiu twice more. Stroking his long dark-green beard leisurely, he said, "I'm old. Traveling wears me out. What's wrong with catching a free ride?"
"Old man, do you even believe that yourself?"
Ye Qiu rolled his eyes.
Flying this long, compared to a Titled Douluo like Dugu Bo, it was obvious he himself was the one more drained.
"Why wouldn't I believe it? My own body—I know it better than anyone."
Dugu Bo replied matter-of-factly.
Then his face twisted into a teasing grin.
"By the way, brat, you spent so much money to exchange for that Blood Crystal Ginseng. Don't tell me you meant to give it to me as a gift?"
"Old man, don't flatter yourself."
Ye Qiu raised his hand in disdain, trying to push him away.
"The Earth Dragon Gold Melon I can let go of, but as for this Crystal Blood Dragon Ginseng—don't even think about it! Not a chance!"
His voice was firm, with no room for negotiation.
That Crystal Blood Dragon Ginseng was meant for Xiao Wu. He would not risk it.
Just thinking of that obedient little rabbit girl eased the irritation in his heart.
Though they had only been apart for three months, after being together for so many years, he wasn't used to the separation.
At the same time, a flash of Ah Yin's flushed face crossed his mind.
"Haha! That thing is useless to me. It'll be far more useful for Yanyan."
Dugu Bo laughed heartily, looking smug.
"When it comes to fighting for my life, my own Poison Pills are more than enough."
On that point, Ye Qiu had no rebuttal.
Though Dugu Bo's combat power was on the weaker end among Titled Douluo—
That was only compared to other Titled Douluo. Against those below that level, if he unleashed his eighth and ninth spirit abilities together, razing a city was no exaggeration.
Even a Spirit Sage wouldn't last long against his poison.
If anyone really forced him to detonate a Poison Pill…
The consequences would be disastrous.
Amid their banter, time slipped away.
Returning from the Sensitive Clan, the two finally hovered above the toxic mist surrounding the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well.
With Dugu Yan not present, Ye Qiu and Dugu Bo had little else to say.
The dark hue faded from Ye Qiu's face as he clasped his hands and said goodbye:
"Senior, you can go in yourself. I'll head back to the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect."
"Alright."
Dugu Bo nodded.
But before leaving, he reminded Ye Qiu:
"By the way, brat, next time there's some errand like this, get those two from the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect to help you. Dragging me all the way out here without a fight—it's boring."
Ye Qiu's mouth twitched.
"So that's why you spent the whole time making fun of me?"
"Not entirely."
Dugu Bo shook his head, then patted Ye Qiu's shoulder.
He warned, "Boy, you'd better treat my Yanyan well. Otherwise, I won't be lenient."
"Rest assured about that."
Ye Qiu pushed his hand away, turned toward the direction of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, and added with a glance back:
"As for errands, I still think you're easier to talk into, old man."
"Haha! Off you go!"
Before the words finished echoing, Ye Qiu's figure had already vanished.
After obtaining the Sensitive Clan's location from Ning Rongrong, he had immediately dragged Dugu Bo along.
Whether it was thanks to the old poisoner's intimidating presence, or because Ye Qiu was willing to spend generously, acquiring the Crystal Blood Dragon Ginseng was surprisingly easy.
With just ten thousand gold soul coins, he had secured it.
He had even asked Ning Rongrong to prepare a restaurant transfer contract, but before he could explain, Bai He had agreed outright.
Perhaps they had truly been driven to desperation—the clan's land was in ruins, after all.
Ten thousand gold soul coins.
For most people, that was astronomical.
But for the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, it was nothing.
Nor was it for Ye Qiu—because the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect was one of his family's industries.
---
By noon.
Returning to the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, Ye Qiu didn't stop at the gates.
By now, after flying in and out so many times, everyone recognized him. No one would block his way.
So he headed straight toward Ning Rongrong's courtyard.
In the flower garden's pavilion, Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing sat at the table, eating together.
"Looks like I came back at just the right time!"
Ye Qiu's voice sounded.
With dark wings spread, he descended onto the courtyard's open ground.
"Mm!"
Ning Rongrong's eyes lit up with delight. She quickly swallowed her food and ran toward him.
"You liar, you finally came back!"
"Mm. I'm back."
Releasing his spirit possession, Ye Qiu hugged the octopus-like Ning Rongrong, his hands resting naturally on her hips. Habitually giving a squeeze, he urged:
"Alright, come down. I'm actually a little hungry."
"Perfect, we just started eating."
Ning Rongrong rolled her eyes, then hopped down and pulled him excitedly to the table.
Zhu Zhuqing had already begun serving him rice.
Looking up at him, she asked softly, "How was it? Did things go smoothly?"
"Mm. Cost a bit of gold soul coins, but it's settled."
Ye Qiu nodded slightly.
Then he reached his arm around Zhu Zhuqing's waist.
"You liar, drink some soup first."
Ning Rongrong pushed her own bowl of soup toward Ye Qiu's lips. He didn't refuse, draining a large mouthful.
Zhu Zhuqing followed suit, lifting a spoon to feed him.
Ye Qiu quickly intercepted.
"Zhuqing, no need. I'll eat by myself."
"Alright."
Zhu Zhuqing smiled softly, finally removing his hand from her waist.
Ning Rongrong busied herself adding more dishes into his bowl.
Then, chewing on her chopsticks thoughtfully, she said suddenly:
"Oh right, liar—after you left the day before yesterday, Senior Brother Qinghe came to visit Father."
"Oh? Doesn't he need to be in mourning?"
Ye Qiu paused mid-bite, raising a brow.
I'm not at a funeral all day long, you know."
Ning Rongrong gave Ye Qiu a slightly annoyed glare, a hint of puzzlement in her eyes.
"What's wrong? Did he do something unusual?"
Seeing Ning Rongrong's puzzled expression, Ye Qiu also felt a bit confused.
"Well… how should I put it?"
Ning Rongrong bit her chopsticks, hesitating for a moment.
She frowned. "When Senior Brother Qinghe came, he seemed really happy. He even gave something to Father, and then he and Dad both seemed really cheerful."
She adjusted her wording slightly, her cheeks faintly flushed.
She simply felt that something about Xue Qinghe's attitude—and the others'—was a little off.
With Prince Xue's death, Ning Fengzhi, as the crown prince's tutor, had also gone to pay respects. So why were they suddenly so cheerful?
Zhu Zhuqing nodded slightly in agreement.
Ye Qiu had some guesses himself. Setting down his bowl, he asked again:
"And? Did he ask for me?"
"Yes!"
Ning Rongrong nodded emphatically.
Zhu Zhuqing reached out to brush a grain of rice off Ye Qiu's mouth, a small smile appearing at the corner of her lips. She added: "His Highness the Crown Prince asked us to tell you that when you return, you should visit his residence for a gathering."
"Yes, Senior Brother Qinghe also has something to give you."
Ning Rongrong nodded, leaned forward, and handed Ye Qiu a bowl of chicken soup.
"Mm, got it. I'll go after finishing my meal."
Ye Qiu nodded lightly.
Since Avalanche's death, he hadn't seen Qian Renxue for several days.
"I really don't understand how you and Senior Brother Qinghe suddenly got so close."
Ning Rongrong rested her chin in her hands, looking at Ye Qiu.
She was the one who had introduced them, after all. And only a few days had passed.
But hearing Ye Qiu's words, Ning Rongrong felt it wasn't entirely unacceptable.
This dead liar was the best at deceiving people!
"You'll find out soon enough."
Ye Qiu smiled mysteriously, without explaining further. After quickly finishing the soup, he stood to leave.
"Alright, I'll head to the Crown Prince's residence. You two focus on your cultivation at home."
With that, Ye Qiu leaned over and kissed the two of them.
"Ah, you liar! You're grown up and still don't wipe your mouth after soup!"
Ning Rongrong pouted playfully.
By the time she wiped her face, Ye Qiu had already vanished, leaving only his voice in the air:
"Zhuqing, make sure to supervise her properly for me."
"Mm."
Zhu Zhuqing nodded slightly.
Upon hearing this, Ning Rongrong pursed her lips and frowned at Zhu Zhuqing.
At that moment, Zhu Zhuqing's face wasn't moist at all, but instead slightly flushed, lips glossy and slightly curved.
Ning Rongrong frowned.
"Zhuqing… you?"
Zhu Zhuqing's pretty face blushed. She pressed her lips together, nodded, and whispered: "I… I just wiped his mouth for him."
"…."
Ning Rongrong froze, cheeks puffing. Sourly, she said: "Since when do you use your mouth to wipe someone else's mouth?"
---
After flying back and forth for a long time,
Ye Qiu felt as if he had a life of endless labor.
Half an hour later, he arrived at the gates of the Crown Prince's residence.
Compared to before, the entire residence was much quieter now.
Entering the gate, he raised his hand to stop the servant who was about to lead him.
He walked inside confidently, knowing his way.
---
In the back garden pavilion,
Qian Renxue, resembling Xue Qinghe, was still having her meal.
"Your Highness… I heard you were looking for me?"
Ye Qiu swaggered into the back garden, raising his voice.
Not seeing him, she already heard his voice.
Qian Renxue paused, a rib falling from her chopsticks into the bowl, splashing soup onto her face.
Annoyed, she gritted her teeth, more determined to deal with Ye Qiu for his arrogance.
With a cold face, she picked up a towel to wipe herself.
Ye Qiu had already sat opposite her.
Looking at the dishes on the table, he raised an eyebrow in surprise.
"Being late for a meal is one thing, but these dishes… don't they seem a bit unworthy of your status?"
"Avalanche died not long ago. Would it be appropriate for me to indulge in extravagant food?"
Qian Renxue frowned in explanation, temporarily suppressing her irritation for later.
"I see… I thought you'd be tired of delicacies by now."
Ye Qiu took some fruit from her plate.
He asked, "Rongrong said you have something for me. Is it the Han Hai Qian Kun Cover ready to redeem?"
"No, it's this."
Qian Renxue shook her head. She brushed her hand across a spirit device, producing a golden object and passed it to Ye Qiu.
"What's this… an invitation?"
Ye Qiu took it, reading the two large characters on it.
Raising an eyebrow, he quickly flipped it over and recognized the names, a look of understanding crossing his face.
He had anticipated this.
Yet he couldn't help but feel a little strange.
He glanced at the gilded invitation in his hand, then at the dishes on the table.
Finally, he realized where the strangeness came from.
So… lavish feasts are not okay, but a grand banquet for the crown prince's marriage is fine, huh?
"What's with that look? Haven't you heard of a wedding to lift the spirits?"
Qian Renxue glared coldly at Ye Qiu.
When Ye Qiu went to the Sensitive Clan, Qian Renxue hadn't been idle either. As the Crown Prince, she sought out the second young master of the Blue Lightning Tyrannosaurus Sect, Yu Luomian.
She had learned of Xue Qinghe's intentions.
And since Liu Erlong agreed, only minor arrangements were needed.
Yu Luomian quickly consented.
He had long resented the ill-fated bond between Liu Erlong and Yu Xiaogang.
Now that Liu Erlong could let go of that useless person, marrying into the royal family, becoming the Crown Princess, and waiting for Xue Qinghe to inherit the throne—it would make her a model empress.
Such a good outcome… naturally, he couldn't refuse.
Even Yu Yuanzhen didn't oppose.
After all, a daughter born out of wedlock is still just that. Limited family ties meant using such a girl to build royal connections was highly profitable.
The Snow Night Emperor also…
Not to mention Xue Qinghe now only had one son, he desired to see his grandson.
He didn't even need to consider anything else.
Xue Qinghe marrying Liu Erlong was purely advantageous.
They already had the support of one of the top three sects, the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect. Now adding the Blue Lightning Tyrannosaurus Sect made it even stronger.
Moreover, the "boost the spirits" matter, the Snow Night Emperor considered necessary.
He now… longed to see his grandson!
Thus, with all parties in agreement, and pushed by Xue Qinghe, the wedding date was quickly set.
Avalanche's first seven days were almost over, and the royal family immediately began preparations. The wedding would be held the next day.
Ye Qiu hadn't expected it.
Avalanche's death had been so… timely.
He had truly done a great deed.
Snapping back to reality, Ye Qiu couldn't help but smile, congratulating Qian Renxue:
"Then Ye Qiu congratulates Your Highness on gaining a crown princess."
"Just words? Was the invitation really sent to you?"
Qian Renxue moved the nearly finished fruit plate closer to him, raised her eyes, and teased with a smile:
"You'd better think carefully about what gift to give me."
Upon hearing this, Ye Qiu froze for a moment. He glanced at the invitation in his hand and nodded slightly.
"Hmm, I suppose I should show some respect."
"Think carefully!"
Qian Renxue said seriously, narrowing her eyes.
"If I'm not satisfied, don't even think about getting the Han Hai Qian Kun Cover or my reward on the banquet day."
Ye Qiu twitched his eyelid, stroking his chin. "Well, I suppose I really should think it through."
Seeing Ye Qiu's serious expression, Qian Renxue's lips curled slightly upward in approval.
At the same time, she felt a little uneasy.
Marrying…
This was her first time.
And she was marrying a woman old enough to be her mother. Naturally, a sense of resistance arose in her heart.
But thinking of that useless person in the dungeon,
and Liu Erlong leaving the Crown Prince's residence while secretly cursing that woman…
Her eyes slightly darkened, a cold glint flashing.
Smack!
Qian Renxue frowned and swatted away Ye Qiu's outstretched hand.
She looked up at him with a glare, then, without another word, slowly finished all the remaining fruit in the plate.
Elegantly, she wiped her mouth.
"Let's go. We're going to the prison."
"What? You want to trap me in a secret room?!"
Ye Qiu's face showed terror, his hands crossed in front of his chest defensively.
"I… want… to… kill you!"
Qian Renxue ground her teeth, speaking each word deliberately, eyes filled with icy determination.
Swish!
Snake Spear and Porcupine—two figures—suddenly appeared behind Qian Renxue, seemingly out of nowhere.
Ye Qiu exaggeratedly shielded himself, glancing at them and nervously smiling. "Senior… you can't, you can't—"
Snake Spear and Porcupine, originally expressionless, showed a trace of shock.
Black stress lines appeared on their foreheads as they glanced at each other.
Snake Spear couldn't help but say to Qian Renxue:
"Young Master, I really want to teach this guy a lesson!"
"Restrain yourselves!"
A hint of disgust appeared on Qian Renxue's face as she looked at the dishes on the table, her expression worsening.
She stood up, turned her head, hands behind her back, and walked out slowly.
Veins popped on her forehead, fists clenched.
This disgusting, insolent bastard—she would personally deal with him!
Snake Spear and Porcupine glanced at Ye Qiu with disdain, then quickly disappeared from view to follow.
"Uh, ahem."
Ye Qiu coughed seriously twice, dispersing any trace of the previous 'delicacy' in his demeanor.
He quickened his pace to catch up with Qian Renxue.
Glancing toward her study, he asked, puzzled: "Your Highness, aren't we going to your secret room?"
Upon hearing this, a sharp light appeared in Qian Renxue's eyes. She clenched her back teeth and turned to Ye Qiu.
"Do you really want to die?!"
She had already tolerated enough from this bastard!
But joking like this repeatedly…
She could barely restrain herself from tearing his mouth apart!
Ye Qiu spread his hands in explanation. "Don't misunderstand, I didn't mean to go see that useless person."
"Going to the Martial Soul Sanctum."
Qian Renxue's harsh gaze softened slightly as she replied calmly, continuing toward the outside of the Crown Prince's residence.
But in her heart, she increasingly wanted to test Ye Qiu, to subdue him beneath her.
"Martial Soul Sanctum?"
Ye Qiu raised an eyebrow, immediately thinking of that group of desperate people led by Fland.
After some inquiry, he confirmed his suspicions—indeed, it was Liu Erlong's condition.
Walking down the street,
Qian Renxue had changed into a female appearance, though not her true face.
Though she had agreed to Liu Erlong's condition, she didn't necessarily want to use her royal identity to avoid suspicion.
Ye Qiu followed closely, changing his appearance as well.
Qian Renxue glanced at the broad-browed, large-eyed Ye Qiu beside her.
She said nothing, instead instructing to the side: "Porcupine, go ahead and make the greeting first."
"No need. Just follow me."
Ye Qiu smiled, flashing a brilliant grin at Qian Renxue. The glare off his white teeth was almost blinding.
Before Qian Renxue could react, she showed a hint of surprise as she saw the papal token in Ye Qiu's hand.
"What… where did you get a papal token?"
"Snatched it from that useless person."
Ye Qiu proudly lifted one thick eyebrow.
Qian Renxue ignored his ridiculous expression, her face turning sour.
"From her?"
"Huh?"
Ye Qiu was momentarily confused.
Qian Renxue stared at him seriously.
If that foolish woman had actually given it, she would have been disgusted and furious!
The papal token…
Whoever holds it in the Martial Soul Hall holds a position equivalent to an elder, or at least an honorary elder.
Such a thing…
Given to that useless idiot—what was that woman thinking?!
"No, don't misunderstand. Tang Hao gave it."
Ye Qiu shook his head seriously, tossing the token in hand, teasing with a grin.
"Anyway, it's good I snatched it, or else later…"
He waved his hand dismissively. "Forget it. He's already been caught by you, nothing more to say."
Qian Renxue finally relaxed slightly.
Still, she couldn't stand Ye Qiu's smug look, and couldn't help mocking: "You seem quite proud of stealing from others."
"Do you want me to snatch it while crying too?"
Ye Qiu replied bluntly, giving her a look of mockery.
"You—!"
Qian Renxue took a deep breath.
Before, she had thought her temper control was sufficient. Until meeting Ye Qiu, she realized she was still too young.
Not angry, not angry… later she could beat him half to death.
She took a deep breath, reminding herself to temporarily suppress her anger.
"Huh?"
Ye Qiu looked at her curiously, leaning closer, wanting to hear what she was muttering.
"Get lost!"
Qian Renxue pushed him coldly.
Ye Qiu shrugged and raised his eyebrow with amusement.
"Oh, by the way, your failed coup also had something to do with giving out tokens recklessly."
Qian Renxue paused, frowning.
"Then should I take back the token you're carrying?"
Ye Qiu shrugged.
"If you think I'm a threat to you…"
"Hmph!"
Qian Renxue snorted coldly.
"Xue Ye has no other choice."
After that, she didn't speak. Instead, she frowned, recalling the mention of that useless person.
She realized…
Ye Qiu seemed to only know a predetermined future.
This future could be changed—but once altered, its outcome was beyond his control.
This realization made Qian Renxue trust him slightly more, and also relieved her somewhat.
At least, Ye Qiu still belonged to the realm of humans.
He wasn't truly omniscient across past and present.
---
Even with Ye Qiu holding the papal token, Qian Renxue still told Porcupine to go ahead and make the greeting first.
After all, why should an outsider lead her into her own territory? That would be unreasonable.
Naturally, Ye Qiu could only comply.
Before long, Ye Qiu and Qian Renxue arrived at the entrance of the Martial Soul Sanctum.
The white-robed Archbishop Salas had been waiting for some time. He hurried forward to greet them.
"Archbishop Salas pays respects to the Elders!"
"Hmm." Qian Renxue nodded slightly and got straight to the point.
"What about those criminals? Are they still intact physically and mentally?"
"Elder… this…"
Salas showed a troubled expression.
"Speak directly!"
Qian Renxue said coldly.
Salas steeled himself and quickly explained:
"One of the prisoners… was violated multiple times in the middle of the night."
"Hmm?"
Qian Renxue paused, her face full of question marks.
What did this mean?
If she remembered correctly, she had specifically instructed that those captured from Blue Tyrant Academy be kept together, right?
Were there other women inside?
After simple disguises, Porcupine and Snake Spear, who had followed along, also looked at each other in surprise.
Ye Qiu, on the other hand, only showed a brief flicker of surprise before quickly thinking of Ma Hongjun, the one consumed by evil fire.
He just didn't know who this guy had humiliated.
Salas lowered his head.
In all his years managing the Martial Soul Sanctum, he had never encountered anything like this.
He opened his mouth and began to explain:
"Elder, they should still be mostly intact, but the criminal who assaulted others might end up disabled."
Qian Renxue's face darkened, and she raised her hand to interrupt him.
"Enough! You don't need to say anything else. I don't want to see it. Release them according to my schedule."
"But Elder, according to our investigation… one of them, the Unmoving Ming King, was already a wanted criminal of the Martial Soul Hall."
Although Salas had private concerns,
he was absolutely loyal to the Martial Soul Hall. He understood who supported him, granting him power comparable to an emperor.
He would never go easy on the enemies of the Sanctum.
Qian Renxue frowned.
"Then follow the rules. Release those with no criminal record. Also… there's a Xingluo prince among them. If anyone from the Xingluo Empire comes, hand him over to them."
Before finishing her sentence,
Qian Renxue flicked her hand in disgust and turned to leave, not wanting to spend another second there.
Salas' previous words still sent shivers down her spine.
"Following Elder's orders!"
Salas bowed in farewell.
A gleam of excitement appeared in his eyes.
If people from Xingluo arrive, there seems to be a lot of profit to be gained!
Ye Qiu followed beside Qian Renxue, watching her displeased expression.
He was about to speak, but Qian Renxue, as if anticipating him, turned and snapped angrily:
"You pervert, go ahead if you want to look! Don't drag my papal token into this. You've had enough! Go—"
"You… cough, cough!"
Ye Qiu nearly choked on his saliva, tongue twisting.
He chuckled lightly.
"Don't misunderstand. I just wanted to ask… where are you going now?"
Ye Qiu pointed ahead.
The path led directly to the gates of Tiandou City.
Qian Renxue narrowed her eyes, snorting at the evasive Ye Qiu.
"Just follow me!"
---
At this moment, inside the Martial Soul Sanctum prison:
The group from Shrek Academy was scattered into individual cells.
Each had a single room for eating, drinking, relieving themselves, and sleeping.
The teachers from Fland's group, with high cultivation levels, naturally received special treatment.
Iron shackles bound their wrists and ankles, with chains extending to the walls and ceiling, securely restraining them.
They were given only small amounts of food per meal—an effective method to weaken their ability to resist.
Fland's lips were chapped, hair messy, eyes clouded, staring fixedly at another cell.
During the fight against two Title Douluo's ninth soul skills, he had suffered the heaviest injuries among the three while protecting Liu Erlong.
After so many days without timely treatment, his injuries worsened, damaging his cultivation foundation.
His future cultivation would barely advance.
His roommate Zhao Wuji, though also covered in wounds, received preferential treatment as a strength-type soul master.
Bound by chains at the wrists and feet, suspended slightly off the ground, Zhao Wuji clenched his eyes tight, eyebrows furrowed, and sweat never dried.
A sword scar cut across his closed left eye—he had been blinded, becoming half a "bear-blind."
The wound was inflicted during a confrontation with Salas, caused by Zhao's soft sword soul.
The other three teachers, caught quickly, had no major injuries.
Being students with lower cultivation, Ma Hongjun and others received relatively better treatment.
At least, they were not shackled.
Dai Mubai, due to his special status, stayed in a single room,
but was still messy, with a long scratch across his face from temple to nose to chin, inflicted during resistance by a soul emperor using a firewood rod soul.
Ma Hongjun and Oscar stayed together, in the cell Fland was observing.
Oscar lay on the straw, motionless.
His thick fur even covered his eyes. Upon close inspection, one could see that his peach blossom eyes had grown cold and numb.
He had maintained this position for three days.
Since being beaten by Ma Hongjun that night, his entire body ached, and he had not moved.
Throughout the night, a frenzied Ma Hongjun unleashed all the accumulated power of his soul simultaneously on Oscar.
Now, Oscar could no longer distinguish what lay beneath him in the cell, but he knew it included his own spilled blood.
The entire night!
As a food-type soul master, he was powerless to resist Ma Hongjun's attacks, forced to endure every blow.
He could feel the stinging pain sweeping over his body, sending shocks to his brain.
Even after Ma Hongjun injected him with considerable vitality, it was useless.
Oscar regretted that he had drawn the Zhuge Divine Crossbow to support Tang San.
Now, he had lost everything.
Ma Hongjun's repeated abuses left him in agony, numb, and mentally twisted.
If Fland hadn't intervened, he would have smashed Ma Hongjun's head with his shackles!
Drip… drip…
The sound of liquid—blood, not water—falling.
Ma Hongjun, who had bullied his cellmates at midnight, was now suspended from the ceiling.
He had visibly lost weight.
Chains around his wrists cut the skin and flesh, blood flowing down.
It wasn't just his wrists.
Even between his legs,
his evil fire, excited and unsated, caused him to urinate blood.
Even in his daze, his face twisted, habitually trying to release the evil fire from his soul.
But he had permanently lost the ability to fill his blood.
His evil fire could only change paths, or perhaps lose its twin sea urchins entirely.
The yellow-red fluid dripped from his pants,
filling the cell with a stench.
The once-proud Shrek Academy members were now just fellow prisoners.
...
Elsewhere, Ye Qiu had been led by Qian Renxue into a small grove.