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Unconcealed heartache filled Fu Xuan's gaze as she looked at Su Jinyan.
It was this venerable one who personally pushed A-Yan into the fire pit. Despite all her calculations, she never foresaw that even Xueyi harbored affections for him, going so far as to exploit his supervisory role.
This didn't make sense—previously, Xueyi and A-Yan had been at loggerheads, neither yielding to the other. Even if their relationship later improved, it should have remained at a distant, indifferent stage, with both merely familiar strangers.
Just where did things go wrong?
Su Jinyan quietly took hold of Fu Xuan's soft little hand.
Fu Xuan's cheeks flushed slightly, but this venerable one understood now.
It seemed the issue wasn't with this venerable one or Xueyi—but rather with that wayward disciple.
This rogue was indiscriminately flirting everywhere; unless his behavior were corrected, such problems would only multiply in the future. He couldn't be so easily forgiven; a lesson must be imparted.
To punish the wayward disciple, this venerable one decided that for the next week...
Well, for the next two hours, there definitely wouldn't be any more hand-holding.
Gently pushing Su Jinyan away, Fu Xuan spoke coldly, "Wayward disciple, if you had only maintained your integrity, none of these incidents would have occurred."
Sighing, Su Jinyan replied, "Shizun, I'm at fault. I've proven too susceptible to temptation."
Stelle stroked her chin thoughtfully. "Little March, I just realized something." She paused before continuing, "Since promiscuous women are called 'harlots,' then can unfaithful, emotionally fickle men be referred to as 'cad husbands'?"
Su Jinyan blinked, perplexed.
March 7th whispered softly, "Then perhaps they should be called 'prodigal sons'?"
Lady Xueyi spoke calmly, "Lady Fu Xuan, from your perspective, it may have appeared as if I was kissing A-Yan."
"However, that's not entirely accurate. If Miss Tingyun hadn't denied my accusation,"
"I wouldn't have needed to personally extract evidence of her crime from A-Yan's lips." Lady Xueyi's face remained composed, devoid of any blush or hesitation; her expression betrayed no hint of deceit, leaving Hanya momentarily speechless.
Tingyun clenched her teeth and retorted, "Lady Fu Xuan, you witnessed it yourself just now—Judge Xueyi is clearly twisting words to suit her argument."
"She initiated the kiss; she obviously lusts after Benefactor's body."
"Lady Xueyi claims this was about extracting evidence of crime? How shameless of you!"
"What kind of criminal evidence requires clinging onto Benefactor like that? I assure you, I've committed no offense."
Xueyi glanced back at Hanya and sternly instructed, "Little Sister, fetch the polygraph-specific jade divination tablet for me."
"Since everyone is present here, let us speak candidly without beating around the bush."
Hanya nodded gently, retrieved the polygraph device from the desk, and placed it before Xueyi.
"Miss Tingyun," Xueyi said mildly, "since you claim innocence, allow me to ask you a few questions."
"Do you acknowledge having affection towards A-Yan, liking him?"
"Yes, but—" Tingyun began.
"Were you kissing A-Yan just now?" Xueyi interrupted.
Tingyun vehemently denied, "I most certainly was not."
BEEP—
The polygraph beeped.
Fu Xuan glared at Tingyun with disapproval, "Hmph."
Feeling uneasy, Tingyun bit her lip and asked, "What's wrong with a kiss?"
"My kisses carry no sensual desires whatsoever."
"It is merely a gesture of gratitude from a fox girl to her benefactor."
Beep—
Tingyun remained silent, as did Su Jinyan.
Xueyi frowned sternly and posed the most crucial question, "Have you ever sexually harassed or assaulted A-Yan?"
Tingyun clenched her fists indignantly, "Of course not! I value romance above all else."
"How could I possibly do such a thing?"
This time, the polygraph did not sound.
Both Xueyi and Fu Xuan simultaneously sighed in relief.
Tingyun smirked coldly, "Since that's settled, allow me to ask a question too."
"Judge Xueyi, were your intentions for arresting me truly pure?"
Without hesitation, Xueyi replied, "There was nothing impure about my intentions."
Beep—
Xueyi's expression turned slightly unnatural. "Apologies, there indeed was something impure involved."
"I must admit, personal bias crept in, and for that, I apologize."
Tingyun furrowed her brow slightly, gaze sweeping over Xueyi and Fu Xuan.
"You may not be aware, but I am the Benefactor's betrothed, acknowledged by him himself..."
Beep—
March 7th couldn't help but burst out laughing.
Su Jinyan awkwardly turned away, his shoulders shaking with suppressed amusement.
Indignant, Tingyun retorted, "And if he denies it, so what? After all, this humble one was the first to meet the Benefactor."
"Don't you understand the principle of 'first come, first served'?"
The corner of Fu Xuan's mouth curved upwards subtly. "Tingyun, Xueyi, your fox tails have finally shown themselves," she said slyly.
"As the saying goes: marriage is bound by parents' decree and matchmaker's word. Since A-Yan's parents are not present, decisions regarding such life-altering matters naturally require this venerable one's approval."
Unwilling to concede, Tingyun raised her objection, "Wait, Lady Fu Xuan. Have you even consulted the Benefactor about these matters?"
Fu Xuan lifted her small face, looking at Su Jinyan with both nervousness and anticipation.
Smiling warmly, Su Jinyan replied, "I trust Shizun to make all the decisions."
Fu Xuan's lips curved slightly upward, ready to boast before Tingyun and the others, when she heard the polygraph beep again.
Beeep.
Tingyun stifled a chuckle behind his hand.
Fu Xuan narrowed her beautiful eyes, but swiftly composed herself once more. "Disrespectful disciple, are you dissatisfied with this venerable one's arrangements?"
"Of course not," Su Jinyan replied earnestly. "It's just that I would prefer pursuing free love."
"In this venerable one's opinion," Fu Xuan said slowly, "none here are suitable for you. You're so exceptional, none of them can truly match your worth. A-Yan, you are now Diviner Su."
"What does marriage emphasize? Compatibility in status and background."
"A woman worthy of you should ideally possess equal power and standing."
Tingyun spoke with a faint hint of amusement, "Lady Xueyi is a Lord Judge of the Ten-Lords Commission, while this humble one serves as Shuttle Envoy for the Sky-Faring Commission's merchant fleet."
"As for Misses March 1st through 7th, there's even less need to mention their suitability."
"Theoretically, our positions all fall below Benefactor's."
"So, following your esteemed logic, among those present, the only one deemed worthy of Benefactor by rank and status is yourself, isn't it?"
Fu Xuan retorted indignantly, "Impertinent! This venerable one never had such thoughts."
Bzzt—
Why was this faulty polygraph so sensitive? Fu Xuan fell silent.
Fine, she did indeed think that way. No one but herself could be worthy of her disciple.
Hanya spoke coldly, "Lady Fu Xuan, throughout this conversation, you've been criticizing Big Sister and Miss Tingyun incessantly."
"By all logic, as A-Yan's Shizun, shouldn't you set a better example?"
"Your excessive closeness with A-Yan is truly blurring generational boundaries."
Xueyi frowned slightly. "Little sister is right; when it comes to abusing power for personal gain, Grand Diviner Fu seems quite adept."
"A-Yan mentioned earlier that every day, you would cling to him, acting coy," Xueyi continued.
"In the mornings, he struggles to get out of bed until you kiss him awake."
Gasp—
Stelle couldn't help but draw a sharp breath. "March, see that? Now that's a master at playing against type."
"Lady Fu Xuan is truly an expert in subverting expectations."
Despite her high status and imposing demeanor, revered by all within the Divination Commission who dared not question her authority, in private, Fu Xuan transformed into a playful little girl, doting on her beloved disciple.
And considering Lady Fu Xuan's exquisite cuteness, such stark contrast—who among men could resist such allure?
Even putting oneself in Su Jinyan's shoes, it would be overwhelming—regardless of gender.
Truthfully, from their first meeting at the Palace of Astrum, March 7th had already suspected that there was more to Fu Xuan and Su Jinyan's relationship than met the eye.
Yes, this young lady has long harbored suspicions that Fu Xuan is indeed Su Jinyan's secret wife.
"Hey, Trailblazer Missy, watch how you address me," Fu Xuan admonished. "From now on, respectfully call me 'Detective March 7th.'"
Stelle raised an eyebrow.
March 7th proudly puffed out her ample chest, feeling quite impressive indeed.
Fu Xuan narrowed her beautiful eyes slightly, voice icy. "Ridiculous! Utterly preposterous!" she exclaimed. "How could this venerable one possibly engage in such behavior?"
BEEP.
The polygraph promptly sounded its alarm.
Tingyun's lips curved upwards as she waved her folding fan. "Lady Fu Xuan, you sure know how to play with fire."
Fu Xuan's face flushed red. "Impossible—it must be a malfunction with this jade divination tablet. Let's switch!"
Xueyi's serene gaze remained unchanged as she shook her head subtly, almost suppressing a smile.
Why didn't you claim the jade divination tablet was faulty when we were being tested? Coincidentally, it only malfunctions when it's your turn, huh?
Now everyone stands on equal footing; let's not point fingers anymore.
Fu Xuan couldn't fathom why the polygraph-type jade divination tablet would suddenly sound an alarm. No way—she hadn't done any of those things Xueyi mentioned.
Acting all coy and clingy in her disciple's arms, demanding kisses just to get out of bed? How outrageous! Such accusations had never even crossed Fu Xuan's mind; she was utterly being framed for something absurd.
Hanya crossed her arms, speaking firmly, "Lady Fu Xuan, you only see the speck in others' eyes while ignoring the beam in your own. In my humble opinion, if you truly like A-Yan, it would be best to openly admit it rather than hide behind denials. Both Big Sister and Miss Tingyun have acknowledged their feelings, and the polygraph has detected deceit in your words. Why persist in such futile excuses?"
Seizing the opportunity, Su Jinyan gently took Fu Xuan's delicate hand and signaled Hanya to turn off the polygraph.
"Shizun," he said softly, "Hanya is right. Concealing our relationship will only invite disrespect. What's wrong with a teacher-disciple romance, anyway? Does it bother them somehow? We shouldn't fear society's judgment."
Fu Xuan's expression darkened, grinding her teeth faintly. "Very well, let me ask you then." She paused before continuing, "When did this venerable one ever act coy in your embrace? And when did I stubbornly refuse to rise from bed, insisting that only a kiss from you would make me get up?"
Su Jinyan's expression turned solemn. "In my opinion, Shizun must be suffering from amnesia."
"Amnesia?" Fu Xuan furrowed her brow. "This venerable one isn't falling for your tricks again."
"Shizun," Su Jinyan said earnestly, "even if you don't remember, I recall it vividly.
"Shizun's feet were small and fragrant, with delicate toes smooth as silk—truly delightful to have pressing against my face.
"Shizun's lips were incredibly soft, slightly cool upon kissing but tasting ever so sweet.
"And Shizun's..."
Noticing the increasingly peculiar looks Tingyun and the others were giving her, Fu Xuan, both embarrassed and flustered, hastily interrupted, "Stop, stop, enough! How can you be so shameless, saying such things in front of outsiders?"
"Hurry back to the Divination Commission with this venerable one; stay away from these dubious companions."
Confused, March 7th asked, "Wait, since Miss Tingyun is a fox, who's the dog? Surely not us, right?"
Stelle cast her a surprised glance. "Well, little March, you're quite self-aware."
Tingyun let out a soft snort. "Lady Fu Xuan, our matter remains unresolved. You cannot take him back just yet—he promised me a date tonight."
Xueyi remained unyielding. "I've already violated the laws of the Ten-Lords Commission, and he agreed to impose punishment on me."
Fu Xuan's beautiful eyes flashed with a dangerous glint. "Hmph, this venerable one has stated clearly that this disobedient disciple must return to the Divination Commission for proper discipline. If any of you obstruct me, you become my enemies."
Seizing the opportunity, Stelle chimed in mischievously, "Discipline or training, Lady Fu Xuan?"
Fu Xuan raised an eyebrow.
March 7th cleared her throat and interjected at this opportune moment, "Um... After observing for so long, I think it's only fair to add my two cents."
"Yes, you all love him and are vying for Little Su'zi's attention, but have any of you considered his feelings?"
Fu Xuan glanced at March 7th. "What, do you have something to say?"
March 7th took two fearful steps back, hiding behind Stelle. "If I express my opinion, would the Grand Diviner hit me?"
A slight curve appeared at the corner of Fu Xuan's lips. "Miss March, am I truly that kind of person in your eyes? When dealing with friends, this venerable one has always been quite accommodating."
"Only when facing enemies do I maintain my due authority, striking them down without mercy." The message was clear: If you consider yourself my friend, we will interact accordingly.
But if you harbor ill intentions towards my disciple,
don't blame this venerable one for treating you as an enemy with utmost seriousness.
March 7th sighed with relief. "Well, that's reassuring."
"My meaning is straightforward," Fu Xuan continued. "Rather than bickering amongst yourselves, why not let Little Su'zi make the decision?"
Su Jinyan froze, taken aback. No wait, I'm enjoying this spectacle just fine from the sidelines.
Little March, I've treated you well—why the f*ck are you dragging me into it?
Upon hearing these words, Fu Xuan, Xueyi, and Tingyun fell into deep contemplation.
It made sense; their ongoing disputes would likely end with no resolution, potentially damaging their camaraderie instead. It might be better to let Su Jinyan decide for himself whom he wishes to follow.
A charming smile graced Tingyun's lips as she approached Su Jinyan, pitifully clinging to his arm. "Oh Benefactor, surely you wouldn't reject this humble maiden, right?" she cooed. "This humble maiden has never acted so coy with anyone before, you know." She added, "Please don't abandon me, or my heart will truly break."
Fu Xuan, determined, declared, "Prodigal disciple, return with this venerable one to the Divination Commission."
"If your behavior proves commendable, there may yet be an even more valuable 'welcome gift.'"
Xueyi also stepped closer to Su Jinyan and grasped his hand.
"A-Yan, I've sinned; please punish me severely, hold nothing back," Xueyi pleaded. "We know each other's secrets well—before me, you can shed all your disguises."
"Just like that first day we met, when you cornered me against the wall, lifting my chin..." Stelle's beautiful eyes sparkled with excitement.
Xueyi continued, "You gently took my earlobe between your lips, softly blowing into my ear."
"Despite my pleas for mercy, you couldn't resist holding my delicate, white-stockinged feet, indulging your primal desires to your heart's content..."
March 7th was utterly dumbfounded. "Little Su'zi, I never imagined you were this kind of person?"
Su Jinyan, visibly flustered, threatened sternly, "Xueyi, don't exaggerate things!"
"I, Su Jinyan, have always been upright and honorable. When did I ever act so indecently towards you?" Su Jinyan blinked repeatedly at Xueyi, silently pleading, Enough, stop talking!
If you continue, our dignity won't survive.
Initially, Fu Xuan merely scoffed, showing disdain for Xueyi's fabricated tale. However, as she heard about her traitorous disciple becoming infatuated with white-clad feet, Fu Xuan's expression grew increasingly grim.
Su Jinyan was indeed an unabashed foot fetishist—a fact well-known to all present.
"Go on, keep weaving your lies," Fu Xuan sneered. "This venerable one wants to see just how far you'll take it."
Xueyi nodded and continued, "In his presence, my resistance proved futile. A-Yan held me close, meticulously maintaining my mannequin body, leaving no corner untouched."
"I tried to escape, but A-Yan said, 'Lady Xueyi, surely you wouldn't want your sister to suffer humiliation at my hands?'"
Hanya glared furiously, "Su Jinyan, how could you threaten Big Sister like that!"
"But Big Sister, didn't you say he was a good person?"
Unable to bear this accusation, Su Jinyan protested, "No, I never said anything like that!"
Fu Xuan's expression turned complex, lips pursed. "So, everything before is true?"
Xueyi softly continued, "Initially, I harbored prejudice against A-Yan and despised him deeply.
"But that was because I only knew his superficial facade.
"A-Yan has a kind heart; behind every action he takes lies a meticulously interconnected plan with profound intent."
Hanya couldn't help but interject, "Big Sister, please stop defending him. What deep meaning could there possibly be?"
Xueyi explained, "When I mistakenly imprisoned him in The Shackling Prison, if he hadn't later revealed his true identity and asserted control over me,
"Even after any animosity faded, our busy duties would have left us no time to meet with him should he need assistance in the future.
"Hanya, suppose another diviner came asking for the Crescent Moon Bottle Gourd, would you lend it to them?"
Hanya shook her head firmly. "No, unless it's the general or Grand Diviner Fu requesting it.
"The Crescent Moon Bottle Gourd is such a precious magical artifact; how could I casually lend it out?
"For ordinary individuals, even offering merit points as collateral wouldn't make it an easy decision."
Xueyi nodded gently. "Now imagine a young diviner approaches you, speaking respectfully and seeking your cooperation.
"He asks you to request from the Ten-Lords Commission the creation of an 'Invisible Prison' identical to Emperor Sui's specifications."
"Suppose he explained that it was intended to imprison Phantylia, what would you think?"
Hanya hesitated before responding, "I would politely ask him to leave and remind him to take his medication on time."
Xueyi smiled softly, discreetly taking Su Jinyan's hand and intertwining their fingers.
"That's precisely it. If A-Yan were just an obscure diviner, who among us would truly value him? Moreover, applying for a special prison involves incredibly cumbersome procedures. If reported through proper channels, rumors alone would have allowed Phantylia ample opportunity to escape."
"Since realizing this, my admiration for A-Yan has only grown stronger."
Creating a special prison requires rare and precious materials along with skilled craftsmanship, all subject to multi-tiered approvals.
However, due to the stir Su Jinyan had caused earlier, he garnered special attention from the Ten-Lords Commission. After Hanya submitted the application, it was swiftly approved without further review. The efficiency at which the Ten-Lords Commission dispatched craftsmen exceeded everyone's expectations.
"Not to mention, when faced with the temptation of eternal life bestowed by the Plagues Author, he resolutely chose to follow the fate path of Emperor's Bow of Fate."
"Little Sister, my life has been fraught with hardships, but I am fortunate to have your companionship. Through the mercy of the Ten Kings, I became a Lord Judge of the Ten-Lords Commission."
"As time goes on, I feel more certain that A-Yan is indeed my destined husband."
Hanya lowered her head, embarrassed. "Apologies, Big Sister, I'm truly slow-witted; I should have realized this earlier..."
Xueyi's deep-set eyes gazed intently at Hanya. Under everyone's watchful gaze, she gently took Hanya's delicate hand and placed it within Su Jinyan's.
"However, I am aware of one thing—what I hold dear often attracts others' covetous desires.
"A fox lurks ahead, and a tiger behind. Little sister, we must stand united."
Hiding her blush beneath her lashes, Hanya held onto Su Jinyan's hand tightly. "A-Yan."
"Although as a Judge of the Interrogation Division, my duty lies in discerning the sins and karmic debts of criminals," she said softly, "I admit, matters between men and women remain somewhat unfamiliar to me. If you find the time, let us gradually deepen our bond. You've heard what my sister has shared; how do you respond?"
Su Jinyan sighed deeply. "Hanya, there were many misunderstandings between us before. However, for Xueyi's sake, I can consider them resolved. I never wished to separate you sisters anyway; from now on, we shall be family."
Fu Xuan emitted a slight cold snort. "Is that so?"
"Shizun, please come with me."
"Can't you say it here? What's with all the secrecy?"
Ignoring Fu Xuan's grumbling, Su Jinyan took her delicate hand and led her deeper into Netherworld Manor.
After scanning their surroundings, Su Jinyan pushed open the door to a room he deemed sufficiently hidden.
As soon as they entered, they heard Luocha muttering to herself:
"Burning your dick? No way, absolutely not possible."
Noticing Su Jinyan and Fu Xuan's arrival, Jingliu softly spoke up, "Xiao Didi."
"You're done over there? Finally remembering to fulfill your promise here?" Fu Xuan's lips parted slightly in disbelief. "Fulfill a promise? What promise?" she asked. "Wait, does Jingliu have some connection with you too?"
Jingliu was once part of the High-Cloud Quintet, renowned for her military achievements on behalf of Xianzhou Luofu—long before Fu Xuan's birth. Nonetheless, Fu Xuan had considerable knowledge of Luofu's longstanding cases and past secrets.
To be precise, each member of the High-Cloud Quintet was someone Fu Xuan admired deeply.
Following her violation of the Ten-Lords Commission's laws, the Ten Lords erased all traces of Jingliu from Xianzhou, leaving few aware of her past deeds.
Only individuals like storyteller Xi Yan, Guinaifen, and Sushang, who had keen interest in the High-Cloud Quintet, would go to great lengths to gather information about their deeds.
Jingliu, having succumbed to Mara's influence, severed her emotions and desires; thus, Fu Xuan believed she should be devoid of feelings. Consequently, Fu Xuan didn't think Jingliu would have any interaction with Su Jinyan.
With such limited encounters between them, how could they already make promises? Fu Xuan recalled that day in the live stream chat, when a user named "Zhao Camera" jokingly suggested Jingliu might be A-Yan's mother from his past life.
Now, Fu Xuan fervently wished for this jest to become true.
"There's no need to worry," Jingliu said calmly. "Between gentlemen, friendship is as mild as water."
"After he fulfills his promise to me, we shall have no further connection." She paused briefly before adding, "Of course, there may come a day when we both become common enemies of the Plagues Author."
Fu Xuan quietly sighed with relief, "That's good to hear."
Luocha seemed oblivious to their presence, continuing to mutter about boiling water and his genitals.
Su Jinyan cautiously asked, "Jingliu, did I perhaps push him too far?"
"Could he be considering proving himself by actually using boiling water on... well, that would be utterly foolish." Jingliu swiftly distanced himself from any responsibility, saying, "Xiao Didi, this matter has nothing to do with us."
"As long as you don't appear before Luocha again in the future, he'll naturally overcome it."
Su Jinyan defended himself, "Honestly, it's not my fault."
"You may not realize, but Luocha's reputation has now spread throughout the universe."
"His fame is known far and wide."
"What if he encounters even more relentless Masked Fools who prank him in the future?"
"A bit of character-building hardship might actually benefit him."
Jingliu neither confirmed nor denied it. "You're right about that. So, have you brought the person I wish to see?"
Feeling somewhat awkward, Su Jinyan acknowledged that ever since arriving on Xianzhou, Jingliu had been relentlessly searching for Blade.
Despite her exhaustive efforts, Jingliu found no trace of him and could only temporarily reside at Netherworld Manor under Su Jinyan's arrangements. Little did she suspect that Blade was imprisoned right under her nose—in The Shackling Prison.
Of course, with communication signals blocked within The Shackling Prison, Blade missed out on experiencing the grandeur of maternal love.
Initially, Su Jinyan had promised Jingliu he would personally bring Blade to her. However, just two nights prior, Kafka had staged a daring rescue from The Shackling Prison, leading to an intense battle between them—a performance convincingly executed.
"Not yet," Su Jinyan replied.
The room gradually grew colder.
Jingliu spoke icily, "Xiao Didi, those who break their promises must face consequences, oh yes."
"Don't assume I'll go easy on you merely because of Jing Yuan's sake."
Su Jinyan hastily explained, "Jingliu, there's been a misunderstanding. Regarding the person you entrusted me to find, I located them long ago."
Jingliu's brow furrowed slightly. "Oh? Then where is he?"
Su Jinyan swiftly changed tack. "However, I do have some rapport with his friend."
"Directly arresting him would inevitably strain that relationship."
Jingliu's tone turned particularly menacing. "Xiao Didi, aren't you afraid of harming our bond instead?"
Su Jinyan chuckled nervously. "Yes, of course I am. That's why I need to find a compromise."
Fu Xuan interjected, "If so, couldn't you simply reveal Blade's hiding place to Jingliu?"
Jingliu slowly shook her head. "No, each matter stands on its own terms.
"If Xiao Didi agreed to it, then he must fulfill his promise."
"No matter what method you employ, within three days, bring Blade before me personally."
Su Jinyan's spirits lifted. "Agreed."
Jingliu approached Su Jinyan and whispered, "Xiao Didi, surely you don't think I'm easily deceived, right?
"With your penchant for mischief, even I might struggle to keep up."
"To ensure you keep your word, I will discreetly observe you over these next two days."
Su Jinyan's eyes darted sideways. "Jingliu Big Sister, my Stare of Pregnancy works even in dreams, mind you.
"You're General Jing Yuan's master, and if by chance you were to become pregnant..."
Jingliu's lips parted slightly. "No worries. Do you think I'd evade responsibility like Luocha?"
"With my skills, avoiding it is quite simple."
"And if unable to avoid it, I wouldn't blame you either."
Without hesitation, Su Jinyan opened his eyes wide and glared at Jingliu. "Really? I don't believe that!"
In a rush, Fu Xuan activated the Matrix of Prescience, shielding himself before Su Jinyan.
Your audacity knows no bounds! Haven't you heard that the more beautiful a woman, the better she is at deception?
Just because Jingliu says she won't blame you doesn't mean you should actually trust her, right?
Whoosh—
Jingliu's figure flickered momentarily, evading the range of the Pregnant Gaze. However, the unfortunate Luocha behind her wasn't as lucky.
Preoccupied with despair, Luocha barely had time to react. Sensing an eerie glow approaching, they instinctively raised their coffin for defense.
Both Luocha and her coffin succumbed to the effect of ten-month pregnancy, their abdomens visibly swelling.
Gazing at the protruding belly, Luocha fell into deep thought. Was this also part of the illusion of pregnancy?
Hiss, the discomfort felt astoundingly real—truly befitting Elation's power.
Su Jinyan stood with hands clasped behind his back, stating, "Not bad, Jingliu."
Jingliu became even more convinced that Su Jinyan was not like ordinary people; she couldn't gauge his intentions using typical human reasoning. Who would have expected them to go from jovial conversation to Su Jinyan suddenly unleashing Pregnant Gaze upon her?
Had it not been for Jingliu's swift reflexes, evading just in time, she too would have fallen victim like Luocha.
"Little girl, do you hold him in high regard?" Jingliu asked coldly.
Initially, Jingliu had intended to teach Su Jinyan a thorough lesson. However, witnessing Fu Xuan voluntarily shield him altered her mood significantly, dissipating much of her anger.
Fu Xuan nervously responded, "He is this venerable one's most esteemed disciple. If you harm him, even if you're Jingliu, I will not spare you."
A cold smile tugged at Jingliu's lips. "Oh? Are you truly just master and disciple?"
Su Jinyan silently pulled Fu Xuan closer into his embrace. "Of course not."
"Don't look now, but someday I fully intend to marry her," he added.
Fu Xuan's lovely face flushed with embarrassment. "In front of outsiders, what-what are you saying?"
After a momentary pause, Fu Xuan hesitantly asked, "...Can you only marry this venerable one?"
Su Jinyan remained silent, as did Jingliu.
Angry, Fu Xuan pushed Su Jinyan away. "Disrespectful disciple!"
Undeterred, Su Jinyan once again drew Fu Xuan close. "This is precisely why I adore Shizun."
Fu Xuan feigned indignation. "Rascal, don't touch this venerable one."
Jingliu's beautiful eyes softened beneath the black veil. "Xiao Didi."
"If we have time tomorrow, could you accompany me to meet someone?"
"Who?" Su Jinyan asked.
"In hushed tones, Jingliu replied, "The medicine-carrying Dragon Girl—Bailu."
"I've heard that the Dragon Girl can cure all ailments. Just like anyone else, I wish to seek medical advice and treatment from her."
Su Jinyan raised an eyebrow. "What a coincidence, I've been wanting to see Bailu myself lately."
Jingliu seemed slightly puzzled. "Why do you seek her out?"
To borrow some adorable Bailu's dragon saliva for tasting.
Su Jinyan smiled faintly, considering teasing Jingliu further, when suddenly, the narrator urgently interjected.
[Don't, absolutely don't say it! If Jingliu finds out, you'll be minced into meat filling!]