{Unlike Tang San, who suffered mental irritation and an unsettled mind after spending two years in Slaughter City exposed to heinous spirits, Tang Yin did not—though Hu Leina did, forcing her to return to Bibi Dong sooner.
Thanks to his passive Spiritual Immunity and Alpha-Class Telepathy, Tang Yin was shielded from these effects, allowing him to wield the Death God Domain's power unscathed.}
After parting with Hu Leina, Tang Yin flagged down a carriage bound for Tian Duo City, a faint smirk playing on his lips as he looked ahead expectantly.
Two years of the Tang Sect fattening itself on trade with the Empire and strengthened by the Four Clans… he was curious to see if, under Liu Erlong's management, it had transformed into a fortress—or something more.
A week later, he arrived before the Tang Sect gates. The whole place buzzed with activity—members of the Four Clan hustled back and forth, lugging large crates packed with hidden weapons that clinked softly with every step.
Just as he was about to step inside, a sharp thunk split the air—a crossbow bolt landed at his feet, a clear warning.
"Swoosh—"
Tang Yin arched an eyebrow and glanced up to see a lean figure suspended midair, a Zhuge Crossbow aimed straight at him. Judging by the speed and precision, they had to be from the Agility Clan.
Raising both hands in a show of surrender, Tang Yin said calmly, "Easy now. Could you call your clan's young miss for me? She knows me personally—I promise I mean no harm."
The figure hesitated before calling for a friend to fetch someone, the Zhuge crossbow still trained on him, eyes wary. Tang Yin wasn't offended—in fact, he found their tight security somewhat reassuring.
Moments later, the wind itself seemed to answer—Bai Chenxian streaked toward the gates, her purple robes fluttering behind her like a shooting star.
Upon spotting Tang Yin, her eyes lit up.
Without slowing down, she shot forward and collided straight into his arms. He caught her by the waist with a low chuckle. She clung to him tightly, unwilling to let go, all while guards watched on in surprise.
"Tang Yin! You're back!" Bai Chenxian's voice was brimming with joy as she hugged him tightly, showering his face with kisses in her excitement.
After some time, she reluctantly pulled away but kept her arms linked with his. As Tang Yin stepped through the main gates, he watched in awe—the entire defense system was more impressive than anything he'd ever seen.
It was a masterful fusion of hidden weapons and unique architecture, designed like a maze to trap any intruders. Even a Soul Emperor—or anyone below—would surely perish if they ever attempted to breach this place.
As Tang Yin observed, Bai Chenxian guided him through the scene. "Strength Clan mainly deals trade with the Tian Duo Empire, while the Breaking Clan produces medicine for the Tian Duo Auctions, everything is according to your arrangements Tang yin."
"Before, the Breaking Clan relied solely on their own medicine-making skills. But after Yang Wushuang defected to Spirit Hall and betrayed them by leaking the clan's secret poison and medicinal knowledge, their wealth took a serious hit," Bai Chenxian explained, looking at him intently.
"Two years ago, you shared new medicinal expertise with Yang Wudi, which helped them establish a steady income and recover their losses by selling products at the Auction."
Tang Yin frowned, thinking inwardly, 'They're wrong—Yang Wushuang never betrayed them. It was Bibi Dong who stole the clan's secrets using her Soul Devouring Spider. Sharing the Tang Sect's knowledge of unique medicine is my way of repaying them.' But he didn't admit.
As they spoke, a sudden cry pierced the air—Liu Erlong's voice trembling with emotion as she caught sight of him. Without a second thought, she dropped her ledger book and rushed into his arms, holding him tightly as if afraid to ever let go.
Tang Yin's heart softened as he wrapped his hand around her back, gently stroking her with quiet warmth. "I'm sorry, Erlong. I won't leave you again for so long. Please don't cry,"
He whispered tenderly, feeling a pang of guilt for making her worry. But Erlong only clung tighter, her tears falling freely as she remained nestled in his embrace. Finally, she let go.
"Hmph… see if I let you go that long again, making all of us worry," she mumbled, though the smile playing at her lips betrayed the relief she felt after seeing him safe and sound.
Afterwards, Tang Yin found the girls training in the field—Rongrong, Zhuqing, and Meng Yiran against Lingling, Dugu Yan, and Xiao Mei.
Both teams fought fiercely, their movements swift and ghostly, each having mastered Ghost Shadow Perplexing Track. They pushed their limits, relying on the Mysterious Jade Hand technique while limiting the use of soul skills, as per today's training regimen.
Suddenly they all heard the famelier voice— "Wow, so beautiful. Is this heaven, or am I dreaming? Beautiful fairy, may I know your name? I want to marry you someday."
The comment immediately soured the mood, leaving everyone annoyed at their interrupted training. Yet when they saw Tang Yin cheekily approaching with that mischievous grin, their irritation quickly melted into reluctant smiles.
Ye Lingling's face lit up with pure delight. "Waa—Tang Yin!! You're finally back…"
With gentle warmth, Tang Yin reached out and ruffled Lingling's soft hair, his fingers lingering in a tender caress before she tackled him, small but fierce in her embrace.
Rongrong and Meng Yiran hastily wiped away their tears, struggling to hold back the flood of emotions but unable to hide their radiant joy.
"Tang Yin!" Rongrong and Meng Yiran's voices trembled with affection as they both rushed forward, pulling him into a shared embrace. Their lips met his in deep, loving kisses—a chorus of longing and relief—until Tang Yin spotted Dugu Yan approaching.
Dugu Yan bumped his shoulder playfully, her teasing grin quickly melting away as he swept her into his arms and kissed her with fierce passion, making her gasp and nearly lose herself in the moment.
"Aah~ Tang yin~"
Zhuqing's serene expression barely concealed the slight quiver of her hands, betraying the happiness she felt inside. Smiling softly, Tang Yin drew her close, capturing her lips in a lingering French kiss that dissolved every ounce of distance between them.
"Mmph~"
At last, Xiao Mei finally wrapped her long legs around him, holding on tightly as if he were her only anchor. "You were gone so long… I won't ever let you go again," she whispered softly, the shadow of her past low self-esteem finally lifting in the warmth of their bond.
Tang Yin's eyes softened as he scanned the group, noticing three familiar faces missing. "Where are Huo Wu and the Shui sisters?" he asked with genuine curiosity.
Dugu Yan smiled gently. "They just returned to their academy to graduate and officially join our Tang Sect. They wanted to surprise you… though I think they might be more surprised to see you here."
Tang Yin raised an eyebrow, a warm smile playing on his lips. "I promise they won't regret their decision—nor will any of you. We'll be together from now on. It's my promise."
He also missed Tang Yuehua, who had gone to the Moon Pavilion. After spending some time with the girls, he headed there to find Yuehua. As he approached the pavilion, he was warmly greeted by Aude—the manager—with utmost respect.
"Oh! Student Tang Yin, you've arrived! Please come on in. Miss Yuehua would be delighted to have you perform today," The manager said enthusiastically.
It turned out today was a special occasion at the Moon Pavilion—they were performing before the elite nobles and royalty. Tang Yin decided to prepare a solo performance for Tang Yuehua as a gift.
Without informing her, he instructed Aude to make all the preparations for his performance.
Nightfall—
The pavilion was filled with elite nobles and even Xue Qinghe had arrived to witness the elegant performances by the empire's top talents.
One by one, the performers concluded their acts, including the empire's own princess. The guests, clad in formal attire that proclaimed their status, watched with refined poise.
"Spectacular!" they exclaimed in unison.
Suddenly, all the lights went out, leaving only the silver moonlight to bathe the scene.
A murmur began to rise among the crowd.
By the lake behind the pavilion, where the moonlight shone brightest, a blurry figure appeared—elegantly plucking the strings of a Guqin. As the gentle notes resonated, every eye turned toward the center of the lake.
"Moonlight Whisper" — A Guqin Piece
The strings began with soft, lingering plucks—each note a gentle caress, like moonlight threading its way through a tranquil night.
It breathed the warm intimacy of two souls meeting in a silent gaze, their true feelings conveyed without words, through the soulful voice of music.
Tang Yuehua's heart fluttered as the familiar melody, once played for her by Tang Yin, drifted softly across the water.
Subtle harmonics shimmered, mimicking the sparkle of stars reflected on the calm surface, while gentle slides and bends echoed the sigh of a heartfelt confession whispered on a cool breeze.
Yuehua's eyes instinctively sought the center of the lake—and there he stood, mesmerizing and ethereal, as if he had stepped out of a fairy tale. Her breath hitched, tears glistening in her eyes as she recognized Tang Yin.
"Two years... Tang Yin, I don't want to bear this pain of parting again…" she whispered.
Not only her, but Qian Renxue—disguised as Xue Qinghe—was also mesmerized. She felt as if she had known this man before, and when their martial souls resonated, a deep calling stirred within her, recognizing him as Tang Yin.
"It's really you, Tang Yin. After so long, you're as captivating as ever," she thought inwardly, completely lost in the depths of his music.
The tempo remained calm and deliberate, each note allowed to resonate fully, filling the air with an intimate atmosphere that made hearts flutter. The final chord lingered softly, like a promise suspended in time—pure, unspoken, and eternal.
Everyone burst into applause, their hands ringing out in heartfelt appreciation, emotions stirred by his mesmerizing performance.
As the final act, Tang yin's music wrapped the evening in a gentle embrace, leaving every soul touched and lingering in the quiet magic of the moment.
Tang Yuehua approached him and smiled fondly, though they refrained from any public display. In that quiet moment, their eyes spoke volumes, sharing the depths of longing neither dared to voice aloud.
"Let's meet later at Tang Sect, Yuehua," He said softly, knowing she had to return to her guest important for moon Pavilion's future.
After Yuehua bade her goodbye, Renxue snapped out of her daze and joined in the applause with the crowd before quietly excusing herself and approaching him.
When Tang Yin saw Xue Qinghe, a warm smile spread across his face. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close.
Their bodies pressed together, causing Renxue to blush, but she didn't resist—she savored the comforting warmth, feeling the intense bond of their martial souls. Yet neither spoke a word.
Qian Renxue suspected that Tang Yin had likely already seen through her disguise as the crown prince, but she no longer cared—she had already fallen deeply.
"Brother Xue Qinghe, I'm truly sorry I couldn't meet you sooner. These past three years have kept me busy," Tang Yin murmured softly.
"Brother Tang Yin, I'm all ears. Please do explain," Qian Renxue said, her voice tinged with frustration. She was angry—three years without meeting, a year of letters, and then two years of silence.
Tang Yin nodded sheepishly and began recounting his intense training in Slaughter City and his unexpected reunion with Hu Leina from Spirit City.
"Did you know I met Hu Leina there? She seemed really inspired to get stronger. She's already at level 67 now—can you believe it?" he asked deliberately, mentioning her level to nudge Renxue toward faster cultivation.
"Although I'm still stronger than her, I didn't expect so much progress in just three years. She's really talented—just as expected of the Spirit Hall's next successor," he said, a teasing edge in his voice.
Qian Renxue realized he was deliberately provoking her by bringing up Hu Leina, yet she was momentarily dumbfounded hearing of her rapid cultivation progress.
She snapped her head toward him, urgency flashing in her eyes. "You say you're stronger? What level are you now?"
Tang Yin smirked proudly. "Not much higher, really. I just need a soul ring to push myself to Soul Saint soon. Well, you could say I'm somewhat of a genius."
Qian Renxue's eyes widened in surprise, but she quickly concealed it, silently promising herself to cultivate without distraction from now on. Still, her mind raced, calculating silently.
Let's see… If Tang Yin was around level 49 during the tournament, then in three years he's advanced nearly twenty levels? How is that even possible? She thought Staring at him incredulously.
Immediately, she yanked his hand and sensed his foundation was rock solid—steady and unwavering, without the slightest sign of weakness or dilutation.
"Uh—Brother Qinghe?" Tang Yin asked, feigning innocence. She breathed a sigh of relief and waved her hand dismissively, saying nothing—but her gaze lingered on him with something deeper than affection, a spark of competitive spirit.
He smiled softly and continued his story about the grueling training in the slaughter city.
"Brother Qinghe, it's getting late. Maybe we'll continue our talks another time. I still have much training ahead in the years to come. I might be busy traveling outside Tian Duo City, but whenever I can, I'll visit you," he promised.
They hugged—this time a little longer—before her breath became erratic, and the quiet intimacy of the moment hung between them.
Afterwards, Tang Yin returned back to Tang Sect and spent the rest of the night with his lovers, the quiet warmth of their company wrapping around him like a gentle embrace.