114 - All Eyes Are On The Peasant Family’ Adorable Baby Girl

## Chapter 114: The Truth As dusk approached, a streak of crimson appeared on the darkening horizon. The dark red light floated at the edge of Shen Su’s line of sight. The twilight climbed onto her fair face, bringing out an unusual glow. Shen Su sat at the edge of the temporary celestial boat that Wei Nan Yi had constructed, lost in thought as she gazed at Wei Nan Yi, who stood at the prow. Wei Nan Yi was controlling the celestial boat, with pale golden spiritual light floating in her palm, leaving trails with her movements. The more force she applied with her wrist, the faster the boat went, and the wind whistling past chilled Shen Su’s soft cheeks. She rubbed her cheeks, silently observing Wei Nan Yi. Ever since they had embarked on their return journey, Wei Nan Yi had not seemed at peace. Although she hadn’t uttered a word, the speeding celestial boat revealed her anxiety. She was eager to reach Immortal Mountain to find an answer. Shen Su’s peripheral vision caught Cen Yin, who was lost in thought not at the prow but at the center of the boat. Cen Yin hadn’t spoken much along the way and had gone to great lengths just to follow them to Immortal Mountain. But as they neared the mountain, there wasn’t a trace of excitement or sorrow on her face. She seemed to have had all emotions drained from her, neither sad nor happy, with no inclination to speak. Standing beside Cen Yin was A Ling, who had been diligently observing her under Shen Su’s instructions throughout the journey. Shen Su and her companions had been drifting on the celestial boat for seven days. Wei Nan Yi said they would reach the outskirts of Immortal Mountain’s spiritual array in half an hour. Once they arrived at the boundary of the array, they wouldn’t be able to use this celestial boat anymore. It was too rudimentary, made from some makeshift wood, and without spiritual power, it couldn’t navigate through places abundant with spiritual energy, even with Wei Nan Yi’s control. As the celestial boat continued to fly, Shen Su looked down. Misty clouds were surrounding the flying boat, and through the clouds, she could see towering peaks and lush mountaintops, a scenery she had never seen before. But as the boat flew faster and faster, an uneasy feeling began to grow in her heart. She started to recall if there was anything she hadn’t arranged properly. Shen Su remembered telling Ruan Tong and the others to be wary of Yu Mu Han before she set off. She had even specially told Gui Cang to keep an eye on Zhu Xian Er, preventing her from approaching Yu Mu Han, and repeatedly reminded Sha Hu Hu Hu Rou not to leave the fox clan. She clearly had given instructions for everything, yet she still felt restless. The more her ties with this world deepened, the more things she grew attached to, and the heavier her worries became. However, it was also possible that the source of her worry wasn’t Yan Bi Mountain but Immortal Mountain. On this trip, they might also encounter Jiang Xu and Jiang An. Her mood plummeted, catching Wei Nan Yi’s attention. Wei Nan Yi slowed down the boat and squatted down to gently brush away Shen Su’s wind-tousled hair, asking worriedly, “Xiao Su, what’s wrong?” Wei Nan Yi’s touch was incredibly gentle, as if afraid that a bit more force would shatter Shen Su. Shen Su was her treasure, and she protected her in every way possible. Under Wei Nan Yi’s gentle touch, Shen Su slightly shook her head, beads of sweat forming on her forehead. “My lady, I have a bad feeling that something is going to happen.” She didn’t know if her intuition was correct, but the farther they got from Yan Bi Mountain and the closer to Immortal Mountain, the more her heart felt unsettled. Shen Su rarely shared her worries with Wei Nan Yi, but her low mood meant it had reached a point where she needed to share the burden. Wei Nan Yi tenderly pulled Shen Su into her embrace, whispering, “Xiao Su, as long as I am here, nobody will harm you.” Wei Nan Yi’s hug was warm, with a hint of fragrance. Shen Su often found herself entranced by that fragrance, unintentionally wanting to lean closer to savor Wei Nan Yi’s scent. She hugged Wei Nan Yi back, her fingers clutching tightly at Wei Nan Yi’s thin back, gripping her clothing. Usually, Wei Nan Yi could soothe her with just a few words, but now, even as she curled up in Wei Nan Yi's arms, she couldn’t shake her anxiety. It felt like she was about to lose something very important. She hugged Wei Nan Yi tighter, her chin resting on Wei Nan Yi’s shoulder. A wave of intense bitterness almost engulfed her, yet she still couldn’t locate the root of her sadness. Burying her head in the nook of Wei Nan Yi’s neck, her lips brushed against Wei Nan Yi's soft white skin, seeking comfort like a wounded animal. Shen Su’s skin began to sprout red fur, her body shrinking, indicating she was about to transform into a little fox again. Wei Nan Yi gently pinched her newly emerged furry ears, her lips curving with a helpless sigh, “Xiao Su.” Since Wei Nan Yi’s recovery, Shen Su no longer pushed herself to shield Wei Nan Yi from the world. She was becoming the way Wei Nan Yi hoped, but Shen Su had gradually learned to escape, which wasn't a good thing. Especially since Shen Su could now freely transform into her demon form; if she ever vanished, it would be challenging for Wei Nan Yi to find her. Shen Su released Wei Nan Yi, lowering her head. Her ear, now furry, brushed against Wei Nan Yi’s lips, its movements making Wei Nan Yi feel a faint tickle that compelled her to hold both of Shen Su’s ears in place. “Xiao Su, no matter what happens, I’ll always be by your side.” Shen Su’s fox ears trembled in Wei Nan Yi’s palm, showing she had taken Wei Nan Yi’s words to heart. She wasn’t intentionally seeking attention from Wei Nan Yi; her fear was simply growing stronger. Shen Su bit her lip in frustration, unable to figure out the source of her sudden panic. They were so close now that a demon on the boat was bound to be displeased. “Such deep affection,” Cen Yin suddenly sneered, interrupting Shen Su and Wei Nan Yi. Humans can be fickle, and so can demons. Whether it was eating people, threatening them, or now speaking out of place, Cen Yin had worn away the goodwill Shen Su felt from their initial meeting. Frankly speaking, Cen Yin wasn’t a good person. Like Si Hua, even if she genuinely admired Shen Zong Zhu, who knew how much of her feelings were sincere? “Shut up, you’re so annoying,” A Ling, who had been standing by Cen Yin’s side, spoke out. Though her face betrayed her fear, she had evidently learned to be verbally confrontational, possibly from Lin Shui Yan. Cen Yin gave her a cold look, showing disdain. “Disgusting bloodline.” “You, you black bears are the disgusting ones!” A Ling, clutching an ice break bead, shrank back, her eyes filled with anger. Snowflakes quickly fell onto Cen Yin’s clothes. A Ling was displeased with Cen Yin for disrupting Shen Su and Wei Nan Yi and for insulting her lineage. Cen Yin was equally displeased with Wei Nan Yi and Shen Su’s presence. The falling snowflakes only fueled her anger. She grabbed A Ling roughly, showing her sharp fangs as she chuckled. “Brat, do you believe I could end you right now?” The moment she seized A Ling, Wei Nan Yi appeared behind her, “Do you believe I could end you right now?” Cen Yin’s body stiffened. She chuckled coldly. “Wei Nan Yi, I’m only tolerating you because of your Shifu. Don’t think I’m actually afraid of you.” “Is that so?” Wei Nan Yi’s voice turned icy. “Yet you stopped the moment you heard me using Uncle Jiang’s techniques. Did you stop fighting because you realized I’m my master’s disciple, or was it because you recognized that I know the Soul Severing Technique? Only you would know.” Cen Yin was momentarily dumbfounded. Amidst her distraction, a short blade landed at her waist. A Ling had seized the chance to attempt her life. Her demonic power surged, blasting the short blade from A Ling’s hand. Grabbing A Ling, she was about to squeeze her neck when the captive turned into a puddle of water and disappeared. She looked forward angrily, seeing A Ling now beside Shen Su. Cen Yin’s eyes darkened. “Do you wish to fight?” After Shen Su had pulled A Ling to safety, Wei Nan Yi also moved away from Cen Yin’s side. Standing together, they shielded the small A Ling between them. Wei Nan Yi’s smile was faint as she announced, “Senior Cen Yin, we’ve arrived at Immortal Mountain." Cen Yin's stiff smile widened, spreading awkwardly across her face. “Good for you.” As the celestial boat began to slow down, Shen Su took out a jade flute, sending a message to Wei Nan Yi through the air. “Did you plant the curse mark in her?” “Yes, it’s done.” Hearing Wei Nan Yi’s response, Shen Su sighed in relief. She was the one who brought Cen Yin along, and she couldn’t afford to introduce a calamity. Immortal Mountain was renowned as the number one sect under the heavens, with its spiritual array extending across a five-mile radius. Leading the group, Wei Nan Yi deftly guided them through concealed paths using hand seals, though this slowed their progress significantly. By the time they ascended the mountain, the moon was already high in the sky, casting a gentle pale light that flickered on their robes with each motion. It should have been a breathtaking scene, but Shen Su was in no mood to appreciate it. The tightening sensation in her chest made it difficult to breathe, amplifying her sense of unease and worry. Clutching the fabric over her heart, Shen Su took a moment to steady her breath before asking Wei Nan Yi, “My lady, where should we go now?” There were too many people visible in the mountain, and she couldn’t decipher who Wei Nan Yi was particularly eager to meet. Wei Nan Yi pondered briefly, “Yin Yue mentioned that Uncle has been in seclusion in the back mountain. We’ll head there first.” Wei Nan Yi’s familiarity with Immortal Mountain was such that she even knew the placement of each blade of grass and tree. Even the slightest changes didn’t escape her notice. They advanced without obstruction, reaching the back mountain with ease. As soon as they arrived, Shen Su heard Jiang Rui Ping’s voice. “Your master has fled; can you stop pestering me?” Jiang Rui Ping’s voice was distinct—a clear yet perpetually cold tone, now imbued with a frailty that made it seem as if she was on the brink of death. Besides her, there seemed to be someone else. But hadn’t Feng Yin Yue said she wasn’t seeing anyone? “Jiang Rui Ping, I am at my wit’s end.” The next voice was faint, almost like a wisp of wind, full of supplication, and it felt eerily familiar to Shen Su. Jiang Rui Ping’s response was only silence, indicative of her unwillingness to help and her evident irritation. This wasn’t surprising; Jiang Rui Ping wasn’t known for her kindness. As Shen Su’s spiritual sense eavesdropped on their conversation, a sharp, cold voice pierced her soul, as if ready to sever her consciousness, “Who’s there?” Shen Su covered her ears, slowly retracting her fox ears. Wei Nan Yi quickly grabbed her wrist, asking, “Xiao Su, what happened?” Shen Su managed a bitter smile. She hadn’t expected that even in her dying state, Jiang Rui Ping would catch her eavesdropping and swiftly disrupt her efforts. “I got caught eavesdropping.” Wei Nan Yi hadn’t thought Shen Su would be bold enough to spy on Jiang Rui Ping. Gently caressing Shen Su’s ears, she delicately made a hand seal, sending her voice toward Jiang Rui Ping, “Uncle Jiang, it’s me.” “Nanyi.” Jiang Rui Ping’s murmur echoed in the night, filled with traces of longing. As her voice fell, Shen Su felt a pair of invisible hands pushing her body forward. She, along with everyone else, seemed to be controlled by these hands, propelling them toward Jiang Rui Ping’s location. Knowing that Jiang Rui Ping controlled this power, Shen Su and Wei Nan Yi remained calm, allowing the force to guide them without resistance. Cen Yin, however, changed her expression as her body became uncontrollable. She cursed under her breath, “Isn’t she supposed to be at death’s door?” Transforming into a black bear in an instant, Cen Yin’s immense strength broke free from Jiang Rui Ping’s control. She reverted back to her human form and headed in a completely different direction, clearly unwilling to meet Jiang Rui Ping. Shen Su could almost confirm that Cen Yin’s halt in combat earlier had nothing to do with Shen Yin Xue’s influence; she was deeply fearful of Jiang Rui Ping. A chilling laugh from Jiang Rui Ping echoed in the darkness. Scarlet pearls appeared around Cen Yin, swiftly transforming into red butterflies that latched onto her clothes, lifting her and flying her towards Jiang Rui Ping’s location at an astonishing speed, arriving ahead of Shen Su and the others. By the time they reached her, Cen Yin’s body had been roughly thrown to the ground in front of Jiang Rui Ping. Sitting cross-legged and pale-faced, Jiang Rui Ping still held a handful of red pearls, looking at Cen Yin with amusement. “You dare show your face before me?” Though clearly terrified, Cen Yin, maintaining her dignity as a demon king, dusted herself off and sat upright before Jiang Rui Ping. “What’s there to fear? You promised your senior sister not to kill me.” Mentioning Shen Yin Xue brought a flash of bloodshot intensity to Jiang Rui Ping’s eyes. She grabbed Cen Yin’s chin, her sharp nails digging into her flesh and tearing her lower jaw. “Thief.” Wracked with pain, Cen Yin slapped Jiang Rui Ping’s wrist, rolling away to escape her grasp. Blood dripped from her chin, but a smile still persisted. “Jiang Rui Ping, ha! You really are dying. You can’t even move, can you?” Shen Su then noticed that Jiang Rui Ping was sitting on a stone slab, the flesh of her legs integrated with it, blood threads hanging downward. Her arms and back were pierced with numerous spiritual threads connecting to Immortal Mountain’s protective array; Jiang Rui Ping was sharing her power with the mountain. It seemed she truly was seeking death. Wei Nan Yi saw this too. Near tears, she knelt beside Jiang Rui Ping, hugging her tightly. “Uncle, what are you doing?” Jiang Rui Ping’s body tensed momentarily at the embrace, her bloodshot eyes slowly softening. She gently rested a hand on Wei Nan Yi’s back. “Nanyi, it’s good that you’re alive. I should have come to find you, but I’m tired…” As she extended her hand, she recognized Shen Su from their brief encounter in Bi You Valley. Understanding dawned on her as she paused, hand still on Wei Nan Yi’s back. “It seems Jiang Xu and the others were telling the truth.” A feathery voice spoke again, drawing Shen Su and the others’ attention to another presence there. No, not a person. It was a translucent figure, her body and voice both ethereal. With black hair and blue eyes, she seemed to contain divine warmth in her deep blue pupils. Floating behind Jiang Rui Ping, she stared intently at her, awaiting a response. Shen Su felt she had seen this woman before but couldn’t recall her identity. Wei Nan Yi, however, recognized her immediately. “Ruo Qing.” Ruo Qing was the spirit of the Yu Ling Sword. So does that mean Jiang Xu is also here? Shen Su began searching for Jiang Xu but saw neither him nor the Yu Ling Sword. “No need to look,” Jiang Rui Ping said, gritting her teeth. “With the ancient secret realm emerging in Yan Bi Mountain, all notable cultivators of Immortal Mountain have gone there. Jiang Xu went as well with the Yu Ling Sword. The Ruo Qing you see here is just a fragment of her consciousness left behind to pester me.” Ruo Qing’s voice refuted, “I am not here to pester you. I am pleading for your help.” Jiang Rui Ping snorted coldly, remaining silent. Her attitude softened only towards Wei Nan Yi. Ruo Qing seemed unfazed by Jiang Rui Ping’s coldness. She floated closer to Wei Nan Yi, her gaze shifting from her survival to her restored spiritual roots, eyes wide with amazement. A quick glance at Shen Su, and her breath caught. “Wei—Fairy Wei, can you tell me how you regained your spiritual roots and cultivation?” Before Wei Nan Yi could respond, Cen Yin interjected, “Naturally, she seduced our new master at Yan Bi Mountain, collaborating to deceive blessings from all our great demons.” Cen Yin wasn’t foolish. A bit of thought helped her connect the dots that Shen Su had obtained the blessings on Wei Nan Yi’s behalf, aiding her recovery. But in Jiang Rui Ping’s presence, the demon king’s grandeur vanished, replaced by a person on the verge of madness. Intending to provoke Jiang Rui Ping by belittling Wei Nan Yi, whom she cared about, Cen Yin's words hit their mark. Jiang Rui Ping’s gaze turned icy. “Shut up.” Smirking, Cen Yin retorted, “If you’re so tough, kill me then.” She gave a derisive laugh. “But you won’t, Jiang Rui Ping. You’re nothing but an obedient dog in front of your senior sister.” Her words were harsh, each one a deliberate affront to Jiang Rui Ping. For a moment, Shen Su couldn’t fathom whether Cen Yin was here to mock Jiang Rui Ping or to seek death. Unexpectedly, Jiang Rui Ping seemed indifferent to Cen Yin’s insults. She lifted her head, sneering, “You won’t even get the chance to be a dog.” Cen Yin looked momentarily stunned, then her smile grew more satisfied. “Jiang Rui Ping, it seems you’ve misunderstood. It’s true I liked her, but I am the demon king of Yan Bi Mountain. I would never forsake my dignity or seek death over a woman. If she chose to be my dog, I might consider it.” Jiang Rui Ping, infuriated, laughed instead. She gently patted Wei Nan Yi’s shoulder, “Nan Yi, kill her.” “Alright.” Wei Nan Yi stood up, accepting the red pearls from Jiang Rui Ping without a moment’s hesitation. When Jiang Rui Ping ordered her to kill, she obeyed. Jiang Rui Ping glanced at Wei Nan Yi in surprise. This wasn’t the Wei Nan Yi she remembered, but this version of Wei Nan Yi was evidently much more capable of self-preservation. Feeling a strange sense of comfort, she turned her gaze to Shen Su, who had brought about these changes. “Shen Su, despite the demon blood flowing in you, you’re quite good. You’ve taken excellent care of Nan Yi. The thing I promised you, I’ve already given to Jiang Xu. She will pass it to you when you meet.” Perhaps, nearing death, her heart had softened a bit. Jiang Rui Ping’s face hinted at satisfaction as she looked at Shen Su. Wei Nan Yi and Cen Yin were locked in combat, and with the help of the red pearls, Wei Nan Yi had the upper hand, especially since she had already done something to Cen Yin beforehand. Feeling a bit reassured, Shen Su approached Jiang Rui Ping. “Elder Jiang, when did you find out that my lady and I were together?” “After Jiang Xu caused a ruckus at the disciple ceremony, she confessed to me about Nan Yi’s situation. I didn’t believe her initially, but when the restriction I left in Bi You Valley’s array was triggered, I saw you and guessed that she might be telling the truth. Without Nan Yi, even the most skilled cultivators wouldn’t be able to locate my array. Only two people in the world understand my methods that well—my deceased senior sister and Nan Yi.” Jiang Rui Ping’s eyes held a trace of admiration as they turned to Wei Nan Yi. “She’s very clever. She remembers everything I taught her thoroughly. It’s a pity she’s too much like her Shifu, always lenient. But it seems things have changed now.” When Jiang Xu revealed the truth, Jiang Rui Ping had hesitated. Upon seeing Shen Su in the forbidden array of Bi You Valley, she had even considered rescuing her. But by then, she had no way to leave Immortal Mountain. Jiang Rui Ping had to admit, she was someone who would pursue death over a woman. Since reacquiring the Yu Ling Sword, she had sealed herself here. Shen Yin Xue’s most cherished desire was Immortal Mountain, so Jiang Rui Ping intended to sacrifice her lifetime’s cultivation to strengthen the mountain array before dying. Her clone had barely managed to suppress the other cultivators at the disciple ceremony; she couldn’t leave Immortal Mountain anymore. Jiang Rui Ping’s thoughts drifted, her gaze falling on Ruo Qing, who had fallen silent after Cen Yin mentioned that Wei Nan Yi’s recovery was due to a blessing. “I don’t know how much truth and how many lies are in your words, but if what you say is true, then let Nan Yi help you. She has mastered my teachings and is more reasonable than I am. She can help you.” Ruo Qing’s spirit awakened with a bitter smile, “She can’t help me; only you can.” Seeing that Jiang Rui Ping remained unmoved, despair filled Ruo Qing’s eyes as her frail figure trembled. “Jiang Rui Ping, how many times do I need to say it? You are the only one with the Twelve Spiritual Roots, the only one who can challenge the heavens.” The mention of the Twelve Spiritual Roots drained the remaining color from Jiang Rui Ping’s face, darkening her eyes. “You know how I obtained my spiritual roots. Others don’t, but you do, and I…” Ruo Qing and Jiang Rui Ping’s conversation left Shen Su perplexed, but it gave Cen Yin an opportunity. Drawing back from Wei Nan Yi, Cen Yin shouted, “Wei Nan Yi, if you care about your Shifu, you should kill Jiang Rui Ping! She’s the reason your master’s life was cut short.” Wei Nan Yi’s lips pressed into a thin line. “You’re lying.” Pointing at Jiang Rui Ping, Cen Yin accused, “You should know better than anyone how harsh Immortal Mountain’s disciple selection is. Don’t you wonder how Shen Yin Xue, lacking even high-level spiritual roots, became an inner disciple? Let me tell you why. She originally had full-stage spiritual roots and was set to become the sect master’s disciple, destined for greatness and possibly even immortality. But it was your Uncle Jiang who took her spiritual roots.” Wei Nan Yi didn’t even glance back, steadfast in her belief in Jiang Rui Ping. No amount of provocation from Cen Yin could shake her faith. Unlike Wei Nan Yi, Shen Su didn’t know Jiang Rui Ping well and had many doubts. She looked at Jiang Rui Ping, seeking answers. To her surprise, Jiang Rui Ping readily admitted, “Yes, I took my senior sister’s spiritual roots.” Cen Yin’s words hadn’t wavered Wei Nan Yi, but now Jiang Rui Ping’s own admission left her shaken. All the red pearls in Wei Nan Yi’s hand flew out, transforming once again into red butterflies that swiftly sealed Cen Yin’s escape routes. Wei Nan Yi approached Jiang Rui Ping, kneeling slowly. Leaning against Jiang Rui Ping, she pleaded, “Uncle, I want to know the truth. Will you tell me?” Despite everything, Wei Nan Yi didn’t doubt Jiang Rui Ping. She was convinced there must be more to the story. Jiang Rui Ping didn’t respond to her, simply patting Wei Nan Yi’s head as she did when Wei Nan Yi was a child. “Nan Yi, there’s no such thing as the truth.” Shen Su, seeing Wei Nan Yi’s distress, felt her own heartache. She couldn’t help but speak out, “Elder Jiang, we’ve been to the forbidden ground. We’ve seen Si Hua and Song Yu. We know you care deeply for the sect master and wouldn’t harm her.” Jiang Rui Ping remained silent, but Ruo Qing interjected, “Let me explain.” “Don’t bother.” Finally, Jiang Rui Ping spoke as Ruo Qing tried to take her place. This was her story to tell. She faced Wei Nan Yi without her usual sharpness, displaying a gentler side unbecoming of her feared reputation. “Nan Yi, you should know that as a Nine-Kill Broken Spiritual Root, I was never meant to be an ordinary disciple. My senior sister and I were brought to Immortal Mountain together, but she was cultivated as an inner disciple, and I was treated as a mere weapon.” Jiang Rui Ping and Shen Yin Xue had known each other since childhood; Jiang Rui Ping was a child bride in Shen Yin Xue’s family. The Nine-Kill Broken Spiritual Root was a unique fate, marked by destined violence and extraordinary strength fueled by intense hatred and blood. People with such roots often led miserable lives, either being abandoned or meeting tragic ends. Jiang Rui Ping was the former. Her father lost a bet, and with no money or food to repay the debt, he handed her over in compensation. She was only three years old. The family receiving her was the Shen family. Though slightly better off, Shen Yin Xue’s life was equally harsh. Valuing only male offspring, Shen Yin Xue served her two brothers as a maid. The family had an elder daughter who was tragically beaten to death for a single extra bite of food. Shen Yin Xue was perpetually injured but maintained a kind disposition, even singing soothing songs. Although Jiang Rui Ping showed great strength from a young age due to her bloodline, she was often chained for attempting to escape. Dubbed a “wild child,” even when restrained, she would bite. To tame her, the Shen family often starved her, believing hunger would break her spirit. Shen Yin Xue, pitying the younger girl, secretly fed her despite the inevitable beatings. Although Jiang Rui Ping bit and lashed out even at her, Shen Yin Xue never lost her temper. Shen Yin Xue’s kindness momentarily pacified Jiang Rui Ping’s violent tendencies, taming her into submission for four years. This fragile peace lasted until the Shen parents sold eight-year-old Shen Yin Xue to a wealthy family as a child bride for a disabled, mentally impaired older son. Even at such a young age, Jiang Rui Ping had heard enough to know that the buyer’s son, though wealthy, lacked a leg and was built solely from misfortune. She wished she could slaughter them all. Yet, Shen Yin Xue seemed delighted, saying her greatest wish was to marry and have children, to have a place of her own, and to take Jiang Rui Ping along. She said that the household was wealthy, and if she asked for more money to give to her parents, they would surely allow Jiang Rui Ping to go with her. Despite enduring for so long, Jiang Rui Ping couldn’t contain herself and slaughtered the entire Shen family, those hypocritical beasts selling their daughters for profit, the day before Shen Yin Xue’s wedding. That day, Jiang Rui Ping realized she might not be a good person. At six years old, she had killed many people and gained a power, a power to control flames. If she could, she’d also massacre those who bought Shen Yin Xue. Surprisingly, Shen Yin Xue didn’t get angry. Instead, she removed her wedding dress, carried Jiang Rui Ping on her back, and asked, “Ping Ping, shall sister take you away?” Jiang Rui Ping didn’t know where Shen Yin Xue intended to take her, but once the hateful people were gone, her malevolent intentions dissipated. She no longer wanted to kill, but trouble found them regardless. After wandering for three years, Wu Liang Yu and Song Yu found them, declaring that with their full-stage spiritual roots, they were prime candidates for Immortal Mountain and inquired if they would like to join. Song Yu nonchalantly mentioned the slaughter of the Shen family in passing. Though just a child, she wasn’t stupid. She understood that mentioning the Shen family massacre implied they had no choice but to comply—to go to Immortal Mountain or be killed. But Shen Yin Xue was truly naive. She confessed to the massacre and insisted that Wu Liang Yu become their master. While Wu Liang Yu always smiled and wasn’t as aggressive as Song Yu, he wasn’t much better. True to expectations, Wu Liang Yu confined Jiang Rui Ping. Because the rules required that elders retire when a new sect master was appointed, many were sidelined while still in their prime. They were unwilling to lose status entirely and yearned for a role in Immortal Mountain’s affairs, even dispatching Song Yu to monitor Wu Liang Yu. Hence, Wu Liang Yu needed Jiang Rui Ping. Both had full-stage spiritual roots, but while Shen Yin Xue received Wu Liang Yu’s careful instruction, Jiang Rui Ping was trapped in arrays daily. Unable to escape, she was forced to witness countless atrocities—humans eating humans, humans eating demons, demons eating humans. Wu Liang Yu exposed her to extreme malice, provoking her bloodline’s darker nature, pushing her to become a weapon to eliminate the elders. A junior killing an elder was absurd, but for a Nine-Kill Eclipse Spiritual Root, it was plausible. Wu Liang Yu aimed to hone her ultimate power to perfection, transforming her into an unparalleled killing tool. Releasing Jiang Rui Ping into an enhancement spiritual array to forcibly elevate her cultivation, Wu Liang Yu’s acquaintance advised him. “Master, even with full-stage spiritual roots, absorbing the array's power will lead to her demise by celestial tribulation. Even if she survives, her roots can’t contain the accumulated power, and she’ll perish when it depletes.” The voice was unmistakable—Shen Yin Xue’s. She sided with those harming her. She wasn’t good; she sided with the enemy. Wu Liang Yu ignored the advice, determined to use Jiang Rui Ping as his ultimate weapon under the spiritual array’s controlling influence. “What’s there to fear? I’ve already set up an array to mask her aura from the heavens, preventing tribulation from descending. She just needs to kill those old men before being discovered. A Nine-Kill Eclipse Spiritual Root was destined for death anyway.” She was doomed, unable even to kill Wu Liang Yu. But she spared Shen Yin Xue due to their shared time of peace, even though she couldn’t forgive her alliance with Wu Liang Yu. Jiang Rui Ping hadn’t expected Shen Yin Xue to rush into the array, nor had Wu Liang Yu anticipated it. He considered Shen Yin Xue his carefully nurtured disciple. “Shen Yin Xue, have you lost your mind?” It was the same question Jiang Rui Ping had. Shen Yin Xue merely embraced her, saying, “Ping Ping, you won't die; you’ll live. But promise me you won’t harm the sect master. Without his trust, I wouldn’t have stolen the Linglong Lock.” The Linglong Lock, a semi-artifact, lacked a spirit but could forcibly seal spiritual roots. Shen Yin Xue’s unique bloodline, a divine vessel, surprisingly enabled her to unearth another use of the Linglong Lock—transferring her spiritual roots to Jiang Rui Ping. Indeed, Shen Yin Xue wasn’t naïve but rather astute. She had long known Wu Liang Yu’s malicious nature and realized they couldn’t escape without garnering his trust. Jiang Rui Ping’s brute force, amplified by the array, shattered the Linglong Lock, preventing Shen Yin Xue from fully losing her roots. However, her root quality degraded to middle-stage, and her divine body vanished, while Jiang Rui Ping became a Twelve Root. The Twelve Roots, considered a legend, marked an innate celestial fate. Thus, Jiang Rui Ping survived the enhancement array and its power, untouched by celestial tribulation. Instead, divine spirits sought to guide her ascension. Shen Yin Xue’s ultimate sacrifice provided a shortcut, but Jiang Rui Ping declined it. Leaving would have meant abandoning Shen Yin Xue, devoid of talents and powers. Despite knowing Shen Yin Xue didn’t fancy women, Jiang Rui Ping cherished their companionship so deeply that being a mere blade of grass was satisfactory, yet Shen Yin Xue died regardless. Even though Jiang Rui Ping had devised a restorative technique, the opportunity was stolen by a black bear. Having lain in wait, the bear seized the chance, snatching away the carefully planned opportunity and extinguishing Shen Yin Xue’s last hope of recovery. Shen Yin Xue forbade her from killing the beast, fostering Jiang Rui Ping’s enduring hatred for demons. Shen Su and Wei Nan Yi exchanged looks of understanding, both pointing at Cen Yin. “She’s the black bear.” “Yes,” Jiang Rui Ping replied with palpable disdain. No wonder she labeled Cen Yin a thief. Cen Yin’s unremarkable talents elevated her to Yan Bi Mountain’s top demon king, explaining her avoidance of conflict with Immortal Mountain. Her stolen power induced a deep-seated fear of Jiang Rui Ping, evident in her immediate submission at the elder’s interventions. Seeking Immortal Mountain disciples as partners, Cen Yin might have never earnestly pursued anyone, revering unobtainable treasures. How dare she claim to like Shen Yin Xue after cutting off her path to survival? Her question about Shen Yin Xue’s grave likely stemmed from guilt rather than joy. Hearing Jiang Rui Ping’s recount, Shen Su doubted it was one-sided affection. “Elder Jiang, why do you always say the sect master disliked women?” Jiang Rui Ping glared. “Didn’t you hear? She wished to marry and have children, to have her own home.” “How old was she when she said that?” “Eight.” A brief silence ensued. As a junior, could she scold Jiang Rui Ping? Probably not. Wei Nan Yi, also a junior, remained silent, while A Ling, cowed by Jiang Rui Ping’s powerful presence, hadn’t spoken a word since arriving. Ruo Qing, after shaking off her initial shock, muttered, “Jiang Rui Ping, holding grudges like this over childhood words is absurd.” Jiang Rui Ping didn’t respond, and Cen Yin shouted from her corner, “She told me she disliked women when she was over a millennia old.” Shen Su felt she had overestimated Cen Yin’s moral integrity, especially after learning she was a thief. Her tone sharpened. “It’s normal she didn’t like you.” Cen Yin wanted to argue further, but Shen Su tugged on Wei Nan Yi’s sleeve. “My lady, perhaps we should just kill her.” Wei Nan Yi was about to nod when Ruo Qing suddenly stood in front of Cen Yin, as if deep in thought, and then resolutely shook her head. “Wait, she can’t be killed. If she dies, another will take her place.” Her words were cryptic, leaving Shen Su and the others able to see her anxiety but not understanding her meaning. Confused, Shen Su asked, “What do you mean another will take her place?” Ruo Qing seemed to come back to her senses, scrutinizing Shen Su in a way that suggested she had never seen her before. She looked at Cen Yin, then back at Shen Su, and finally at Shen Su’s hand holding Wei Nan Yi’s sleeve. “She just mentioned the new master of Jing Lake being you?” Shen Su didn’t quite understand why Ruo Qing was asking but nodded out of respect for the spirit of this powerful sword. Understanding Shen Su’s identity, Ruo Qing tentatively asked, “Do you like Yu Mu Han?” Yu Mu Han, the male protagonist. Why would she like Yu Mu Han? Shen Su’s eyes widened in horror. Realizing her bluntness, Ruo Qing rephrased, “Have you met Yu Mu Han?” After Shen Su truthfully nodded, Ruo Qing pressed on, “Then you must hate him.” Shen Su shook her head, speechless. “Senior, why are you asking these questions? Why should I like or hate him?” Wei Nan Yi also found Ruo Qing’s questions baffling. Glancing towards Jiang Rui Ping, who had again withdrawn into silence, she seemed to decide on something. She took Shen Su’s hand, interlacing their fingers, before calling out, “Uncle Jiang, Ruo Qing, Xiao Su is my Dao companion now.” Jiang Rui Ping snapped back to attention, her gaze falling on their entwined hands. She suddenly appeared thrilled. “Nan Yi, I always said you weren’t as rigid as your master.” Seeing Jiang Rui Ping’s reaction, Shen Su felt an urge to ask whether Shen Yin Xue’s supposed rigidity wasn’t just Jiang Rui Ping’s fixation on something said in childhood. Realizing Ruo Qing’s questions were tangents, Shen Su’s confusion grew when Ruo Qing abruptly grasped her wrist. Deep blue eyes misted with a single blue tear, like an ice crystal. “Special bloodline, master of Yan Bi Mountain, of noble standing, acquainted with Yu Mu Han but neither loves nor hates him… I’ve never seen you before; you shouldn’t be here. Where did you come from? Are you a variable? No, are you here to rescue Xiao Xu?” --- All the novels on this site are uploaded by members. If you feel your rights are infringed, please contact us, and we will remove it promptly. Previous Chapter | Directory | Next Chapter 笔迷读 All Rights Reserved | Site Map