265 - The Demon Fox Wife is a Foodie

As the group continued on their journey, the tinkling sound of silver bells filled the air, creating a melodious backdrop. Unexpectedly, a little fox darted forward, leaping into Yan Zhao's open arms, where it nestled contentedly. The battle within the area had already concluded. Jiang Ying approached Yan Zhao's side, questioning Han Li, "Your forces have been defeated. Why not let us pass now?" "Why such haste to leave?" Han Li chuckled, her eyes sparkling with a provocative allure. "Stopping you earlier was merely my duty as a lord. Now that I've verified the young master's identity, I must express my apologies. Therefore, allow me to host a feast in your honor, and it's best if you all rest here tonight before setting out tomorrow. What do you say?" Having proven her worth, Yan Zhao now received a drastically different demeanor from Han Li, who even naturally began addressing her as the young master. Jiang Ying pondered, exchanging a glance with Lei Shuang and Feng Jin. Ultimately, the three turned their gaze toward Yan Zhao, leaving the decision to her discretion. Han Li's offer was a gesture of atonement for blocking their path earlier, hoping to forge goodwill and resolve any lingering grievances. The demons tended to be temperamental and spontaneous, seldom letting emotions linger. Han Li's intention to host them was genuine, devoid of malice. It was all up to Yan Zhao whether she wished to accept. Whether they stayed or left, surpassing Han Li's challenge was what mattered most. Observing them deferring to Yan Zhao made it seem as though they captured her lead entirely. Han Li wore a thoughtful expression, her interest piqued by this person claiming to be the daughter of Yan Yuanqing and Nangong Yin. Spending so much time within her territory, barren of excitement, she found the situation entirely intriguing, her curiosity doubling. Receiving the expectant gazes of Jiang Ying and others, Yan Zhao tilted her head, pondering briefly, before nodding in agreement. "Alright," she said. Her assent had nothing to do with resolving grievances; she simply realized that in her recent whirlwind of activities, she'd hardly paused to eat. Ever since her inexplicable recovery three years ago, she rarely felt hungry. Han Li's offer reminded her it was time for a break. Yan Zhao's unexpected agreement took Jiang Ying and the others by surprise. Han Li, noticing, beamed even more brightly. Though Yan Zhao hailed from the human realm as a half-demon, she displayed remarkable composure and a character that resonated with Han Li's tastes. Bursting into laughter, Han Li waved at Jiang Ying and Lei Shuang. "The young master has agreed, so why are you still dawdling? Come, let's visit my residence!" Once the decision was made, there was no hesitation. With Han Li's invitation, Jiang Ying and her companions followed Yan Zhao towards the towering structure in the distance. That night, Han Li hosted a banquet for Yan Zhao in the tower, revealing to her from Jiang Ying’s account, that Han Li had gained fame even before the Demon Lord. Yet, unlike others, she neither sought fame nor fortune, content with ruling her territory as a sovereign in her domain. As Han Li's territory was a crucial gateway deep into the demon realm—a border between it and the outside world—all passing through were required to pay a toll. Despite being remote, the area was plentiful in resources. Furthermore, Han Li relished in luxury, known as one of the few demons with a taste for gourmet cuisine, making this stay for recuperation a fitting choice. The demon realm's day and night lacked stark distinction, the sky perpetually shrouded in thick clouds casting a gray veil. Even after sunset, it never fully darkened; instead, the rolling clouds pressed lower, lending an oppressive air. Entrusting her subordinates with her grandest instructions, Han Li boasted about the array prepared for the evening’s feast. During the preparations, Han Li encouraged Yan Zhao and her group to explore the territory, appreciating the peculiar customs and landscape of the realm. Once notified the banquet was ready, Han Li led them to the dining hall. Inside the banquet hall of the lord's mansion, Yan Zhao's immediate impression was the overwhelming brightness. So bright it was—glittering with golden splendor, the walls composed of some reflective material mirroring those within. The ceiling beams bore candleholders whose warm, amber flames danced alongside embedded fluorites, casting intertwined illuminations that rendered the hall as bright as day despite the external gloom. The stark contrast made Yan Zhao instinctively narrow her eyes. Once adjusted to the sudden brilliance, she observed two side doors opening, ushering in two orderly lines of colorfully dressed demon attendants, ready to serve the feast. At the hall’s center stood a grand table, bordered by open space with meticulously laid carpeting. As course after course was brought in, the attendants remained, awaiting Yan Zhao’s party to be seated, whereupon melodious strings and flutes sprang to life from a corner, accompanying an array of dancers in the pavilion. Both male and female performers graced the pavilion, their flowing garments adding a visual feast. These dancers, eager for Han Li's favor, showcased their talents, exuding charm and grace. Among them stood a lead dancer, a stunning beauty who commanded attention from the moment anyone entered. Even Yan Zhao's gaze lingered momentarily before shifting swiftly to the lavish spread before her. The little fox in Yan Zhao’s arms maintained a wary eye, skeptical of the lord’s true intentions. Suddenly, Han Li clapped her hands, raising her cup towards Yan Zhao. "For today’s duties, I inadvertently offended. I toast to the young master, hoping we can let bygones be bygones." Yan Zhao, nodding in acknowledgment, lifted her delicate glass, draining its contents in one swift motion. The drink, a sweet nectar with a slight tang, filled with a rich array of flavors, sparked a newfound brightness in Yan Zhao’s eyes, compelling her to take a few more sips. Barely had she emptied her cup when a demon attendant appeared to refill her glass. The little fox glanced at the attendant—a male demon of unknown origin, bearing alabaster skin and deeply set eyes, his angular features statuesque in their elegance. Yet, his attire hung loosely, baring his chest save for scant strips of fabric that barely maintained his modesty, prompting distress in Ren Qingyue. Moreover, his ensemble sparkled with vibrant crystal embellishments, glimmering irresistibly in the radiant hall, akin to a strutting peacock. He leaned closer to Yan Zhao, quietly elucidating the preparation and ingredients of each dish before serving a small portion with great care. Yan Zhao needed not to lift a finger; her glass barely settled before a tantalizing morsel appeared mere inches from her lips. The attendant held the dish with one hand, while artfully offering food with the other, poised to feed Yan Zhao should she simply open her mouth. Seeing this, the fur on the little fox bristled with indignation. Yet, such personal service was not exclusive to Yan Zhao; Jiang Ying, Lei Shuang, and Feng Jin were likewise attended each by a demon servant. To emphasize Yan Zhao’s standing, the servant by her side was undeniably the most exquisite. Jiang Ying refused any service with an untouched demeanor, while Lei Shuang relished every bite offered without reserve, displaying no inhibitions. Lei Shuang’s enjoyment didn’t escape Jiang Ying’s notice, whose disapproving frowns deepened with each passing moment. Meanwhile, the most reserved among them was Feng Jin. Though not born of demon kin but a magic practitioner from the human realm, her awareness of demon customs didn’t equate to comfort. Every offering was accepted with a polite thanks, thereafter ignored as she focused intently on her meal. Yan Zhao, partaking in such opulence for the first time, reflected that mortal emperors might live no differently. Aunt Ying's counsel proved true—Han Li was indeed adept at savoring life. The attendant proffered another delicacy, yet Yan Zhao found his offerings meager, grasping his serving spoon to heap a generous portion into her bowl. The attendant froze, visibly embarrassed, whispering, "Young master, please let the servants handle these trifles for you." "No, I'll do it myself," Yan Zhao replied, gently nudging the attendant aside. "You’re blocking my reach for the dishes." The attendant: "..." Han Li watched each guest with keen interest, noting Yan Zhao's apparent disinterest in the attendant she had appointed for her. Her curiosity piqued, Han Li pondered for a moment until realization struck. "Oh, I see!" she exclaimed suddenly, drawing everyone’s surprised attention except Yan Zhao, who continued to eat. Han Li laughed at her oversight, then with a knowing smile, beckoned to the dancers, "Yanwu, come over here." As her words faded into the air, a stunning dancer emerged from the crowd, gracefully swaying her hips as she stepped out of the dance circle. Her movements were captivating, growing even more entrancing as she drew closer with her elegant demeanor. She approached Han Li and softly addressed her, "Lord." Her voice was like liquid, soft and alluring. Han Li gestured toward Yan Zhao and instructed the dancer, "It seems our young master isn't fond of men, so you'll accompany her. Ensure she is well taken care of today, understood?" Having two mothers, it made sense that she might not be interested in men, Han Li mused. Yan Wu, with her expressive, captivating eyes, turned her gaze to Yan Zhao. Her beauty was enchanting, naturally bewitching, and her expression seemed lovingly attentive. Yan Zhao was in the midst of her meal and glanced up at the mention. Her eyes met Yan Wu's unexpectedly. She saw the woman’s soft smile and heard her gentle assent, "Alright." **Chapter 289** At Han Li's directive, Yan Wu showed no hesitation, compliant and obedient. The little fox's fur puffed up in agitation. Yan Zhao was bewildered, while Jiang Ying and the others wore expressions of subtle intrigue. Yan Wu approached Yan Zhao, prompting the male demon attendant beside her to step aside, crestfallen. Across the table, Lei Shuang's eyes brightened with admiration. "Where did Han Li find such a beautiful demon servant? Just having her in the room enhances the atmosphere... Ow! Jiang Ying, why did you step on me?" By Lei Shuang’s side, Jiang Ying drank her wine with composure, ignoring the commotion. Lei Shuang grumbled about Jiang Ying's inexplicable behavior while biting into a piece of preserved meat. "Young master," Yan Wu greeted Yan Zhao with a demeanor both docile and subtly seductive. Yan Zhao, focused on her food, looked up briefly at Yan Wu’s greeting, responding with a simple "Hmm" through her nose before returning to her meal. However, she was eating with such haste, a luxury she hadn't indulged in for a long time. A large mouthful of pastry lodged in her throat, causing her discomfort. Noticing this, Yan Wu swiftly handed her a cup of wine. Yan Zhao accepted, draining it to relieve the obstruction in her throat. Yan Wu gently advised, “Take it slower, there's no rush. If there’s not enough, I’ll have the kitchen prepare more. Your well-being is what matters, young master.” As she spoke, her gaze fell upon the snow-white fox nestled in Yan Zhao’s arms. The fox's head rested on Yan Zhao's left arm, its jade-green eyes staring at Yan Wu with guarded intensity. Yan Wu instantly recognized the fox as a shape-shifting fox demon. The vigilance in its gaze was distinct from the fierce protectiveness a pet might show for its owner. "You seem very fond of the young master," Yan Wu communicated silently to the little fox. "Don't worry, I won’t compete for affection." Ren Qingyue froze, startled. Compete for affection... She suddenly realized how her emotions nearly spiraled out of control. Her surge of anger stemmed from the fear of Yan Wu vying for Yan Zhao’s favor! Her possessiveness over Yan Zhao was intense to this extent! The sudden revelation struck Ren Qingyue profoundly, combined with the shame of being so easily unmasked. The little fox turned its head away in embarrassment. Were it not for the soft, white fur covering its body, its bashful and flustered demeanor might have seemed ridiculous. Yan Wu, unlike the previous male demon attendant, did not feed the food directly to Yan Zhao. Instead, she silently divided the portions, slicing large dishes into smaller pieces, or skillfully carving meat from the bone and shredding it into strips for Yan Zhao.