108 - Confession (Ying Cheng)

Chapter 108: Whispers Qi Xian Qing initially assumed that, as a fox demon, Yan Jue would at least have some basic knowledge of the art of balancing Yin and Yang energy. However, Qi Xian Qing quickly discovered that Yan Jue was entirely clueless. In the dim light, those amber-colored phoenix eyes were fixed unwaveringly upon her, with a slight blush at the corners—a look of utter shock and vulnerability. Qi Xian Qing closed her eyes briefly. This was the debt she owed to Yan Jue. Qi Xian Qing was a sword cultivator with spiritual energy as pure as the sun’s rays, and her celestial spirit physique inherently attracted demons. Even being close to her was enough to unsettle Yan Jue. Yan Jue never expected Qi Xian Qing to personally teach her the art of energy absorption. Yan Jue constantly felt that this woman was deliberately seducing her. Qi Xian Qing seemed to possess a natural allure, especially evident when she embraced you from behind and gently whispered in your ear, "Do you want more?" She also had feelings for Qi Xian Qing… she simply couldn’t refuse her. These past few days had been an excruciating torment for Yan Jue, caught between heaven and hell. The cave was dimly lit. Yan Jue lay on the ground with a pale complexion tinged with a soft blush. She raised her hand to cover her mouth, instinctively clenching her back teeth, only able to feel the sweet scent of the celestial spirit flowing into her nostrils, sending shivers down her spine. It made her want to cry, the sort of bliss one felt when tasting an earthly delicacy for the first time. Ultimately, Yan Jue couldn’t control her expressions. No matter how she growled at Qi Xian Qing with fierce intimidation, Qi Xian Qing always comforted her softly, patting her back. In no time, it was dawn. Yan Jue had a brief sleep and slowly lifted her heavy eyelids. The scent of the celestial spirit was so pure and sweet that the first thing Yan Jue did upon waking was bury her head in the crook of Qi Xian Qing’s neck. Qi Xian Qing had closed her eyes lightly, still slumbering. Her sleep was light, and she woke upon sensing Yan Jue’s movements. Yan Jue frowned slightly, suddenly anxious in the absence of encouragement, until Qi Xian Qing’s soft hand gently cupped the back of her neck and patted her back. Qi Xian Qing spoke with infinite patience, “It’s okay. Just like yesterday.” Yan Jue turned over and sat up, pinning Qi Xian Qing beneath her, drawing in a deep breath. Through a day of trial and adjustment, she had grasped the essence of energy absorption, utilizing Qi Xian Qing’s spilled spiritual energy and gradually aligning it with her own meridians. Qi Xian Qing closed her eyes just slightly, a gentle flush upon her cheeks, her breathing somewhat labored. For Yan Jue, her mind went blank. It was incredibly comfortable. No wonder so many fox demons subsist on absorbing life forces. Especially one as pure and bright as the spiritual energy of a sword cultivator and celestial spirit. Even at this gentle touch, Yan Jue sensed true energy absorption shouldn’t be so gentle, but for her, it sufficed. It was the life force of her beloved... Her emotions and rationality tugged fiercely at her heart until rationality collapsed. Yan Jue ultimately couldn’t hold back, burying her head in Qi Xian Qing’s embrace, softly crying. “Why are you crying?” Qi Xian Qing was slightly taken aback, unable to quite comprehend. Moments later, as she processed it, she tenderly asked, “Still hungry?” Qi Xian Qing leaned against the rock wall, her gaze encompassing and patient, wrapping her arms around Yan Jue’s waist, gently comforting her back. Yan Jue opened her eyes, now filled with tears, meeting Qi Xian Qing’s gaze briefly in the darkness before slowly parting her lips, instinctually nipping her neck. Qi Xian Qing’s body shivered slightly, her waist going weak, pressing against the rock wall, nearly unable to stay seated. Her skin, pristine like snow, quickly took on a faint red hue. Why was this fox biting her? Even as a fox, it had never bitten anyone. The cave was isolated by a temporary formation, making any energy within imperceptible to outsiders. Following an absorption session with Qi Xian Qing, Yan Jue was thoroughly sated with the life force. Gorged and content, Yan Jue collapsed, unwilling to move. In the dim light, her inner garments were soaked with sweat, instinctively curling up to digest it all when Qi Xian Qing pulled her into an embrace, tucking her damp strands behind her ear, asking, “Do you still want more?” Feeling instantly affronted, Yan Jue shot her a fierce glare. Qi Xian Qing, only partially versed in fox demon energy absorption from various books, had never experienced anything like this. She had instructed randomly. Yet this individual, with such innate talent, had managed to master it after a few attempts. Qi Xian Qing also found herself entangled and chaotic. Her arms had borne the brunt of Yan Jue’s bites, her collar torn during their rough encounters. Yan Jue, eyelids growing heavier, rubbed her face against Qi Xian Qing’s palm, a pure human act of affection. In spite of the embarrassing scene, Yan Jue managed to control her actions. Watching her, Qi Xian Qing suddenly felt an unconditional willingness to embrace everything about Yan Jue. Yet Qi Xian Qing quickly furrowed her brow. From a certain perspective, Yan Jue was not truly hers. How could she articulate her inner thoughts to Yan Jue? Swaddled in the fragrance of the celestial spirit, Yan Jue, on the verge of unconsciousness, couldn’t distinguish if she was a fox or human; her phoenix eyes narrowed slightly as she whispered to Qi Xian Qing, “I like you, but I am afraid...” Qi Xian Qing’s heart skipped a beat, promptly asking, “Why are you afraid?” Yan Jue shut her eyes, “You dislike demons.” Yan Jue wept again, “What am I supposed to do...” “Precious little fox,” Qi Xian Qing chuckled gently, looking down at her, “But I don’t dislike you.” Qi Xian Qing’s voice was naturally clean, and her soft, gentle words quickly comforted Yan Jue. Closing her eyes, Yan Jue fell into a peaceful sleep. Qi Xian Qing gently caressed Yan Jue’s delicate cheeks, for the first time allowing a rare hint of greed into her gaze, her communication talisman suddenly vibrating at her waist. Her spiritual consciousness having recovered a few days prior, Qi Xian Qing could sense the messages from the talisman. She had been avoiding her master, not expecting her master to reach out first. Qi Xian Qing sighed inwardly and stood to leave, but Yan Jue clung tightly to her waist. Yan Jue, her eyes closed, had tears dotting her dark lashes, whispering stubbornly, “Can you not leave?” Qi Xian Qing couldn’t help but chuckle at how clingy she was. - When Yan Jue awoke again, she felt vastly improved. Not just in comfort, but also with a newfound lightness. Instinctively, Yan Jue thought she was lying in the dormitory bed at the Five Dragon Gate. Blinking her eyes open, she was met with darkness. The Spirit Pearl was placed at the center of the cave, softly illuminating the entire space. Yan Jue widened her eyes slightly, staring silently at the Spirit Pearl. Her awareness gradually returned. Though hazy these past few days, she wasn’t so far gone as to suffer amnesia: Thinking back on her hellish experiences in recent days, it all came rushing back. Her spiritual energy had been greatly depleted, leaving her in a daze, but now, in clarity’s light, she realized... What exactly had she done? Here, in this cave, she had absorbed Qi Xian Qing’s life force. She had done something so animalistic to Qi Xian Qing! Yan Jue’s world suddenly turned icy, her blood running cold. Suddenly, the gentle sound of water echoed in her ears. Slowly turning her head, she glimpsed through the corner of her eye, her gaze settling on the source, freezing in place. Qi Xian Qing, draped in white with a soft blue jade hairpin, crouched by the natural stream within the cave, splashing water to her face. A ray of sunlight streamed in from outside, droplets glistening on the girl’s fair face. Her skin was pristine like snow, and her slender neck bore a blush. Bite marks. Having undergone deliberate training for a time, Qi Xian Qing’s spiritual sense was at its strongest. She could detect a watchful gaze upon her in a mere moment. Qi Xian Qing lifted her phoenix eyes, the clarity of her gaze meeting Yan Jue’s. Yan Jue snapped her eyes shut immediately. A trace of amusement flashed in Qi Xian Qing’s eyes. She stood slowly, her hands clasped behind her, and sauntered toward her. The wind lifted her skirt, Qi Xian Qing’s demeanor graceful and exceptional. Despite tales of spiritual depletion post-energy absorption, Qi Xian Qing appeared in perfect shape. Like a fairy, as if stepping upon lotuses. Fear gripped Yan Jue as her mind replayed, like a film, the mortifying scenes of recent days. Qi Xian Qing was approaching. What would Qi Xian Qing do? Kill her, perhaps? Yan Jue recalled, just before her mind had splintered, Qi Xian Qing seemed to call her, “Little fox sweetheart.” How did Qi Xian Qing know? It didn’t matter. Yan Jue believed she had hidden her emotions well, and as long as she denied it, Qi Xian Qing wouldn’t... Caught up in her own satisfaction, had she pushed Qi Xian Qing too far? Harboring thoughts against the protagonist could surely invite divine retribution. Just as this realization hit, she heard Qi Xian Qing’s soft cough beside her. Yan Jue’s nose stung with the threat of tears. “Sister, no need to fret,” Qi Xian Qing sat beside her, lowering her gaze with intent, “I just wish to ask you one thing...” question." A single question... Yan Jue lifted her eyes, those amber phoenix eyes glaring at her, "What question?" Qi Xian Qing regarded her flushed ears with a leisurely air and asked, "Over the past few days, you’ve used so much of my yang energy." Yang energy... Yan Jue felt like crying without tears, retreating to a corner, hugging her head. So Qi Xian Qing really brought up that topic. This meant her identity was no longer a secret. Qi Xian Qing truly had discovered her true identity. “Yan Shimei.” To Yan Jue, Qi Xian Qing was always a strong, assertive figure. As Yan Jue fretted over what righteous indignation Qi Xian Qing might unleash upon her, Qi Xian Qing unexpectedly lowered her gaze, softening her stance: "You took liberties with me." Yan Jue froze mid-motion. Qi Xian Qing seriously inquired, "Aren’t you going to take responsibility?" The silence of the cave turned deafening, with Qi Xian Qing’s voice resonating like a thunderous boom, causing Yan Jue’s mind to explode with fireworks. Yan Jue stared at Qi Xian Qing, attempting to discern if this was just a jest, before awkwardly responding, "You’re just teasing me..." Since Qi Xian Qing had already realized her identity and wasn’t showing any intention to harm, it meant she was safe. There was no point in hiding anymore. Still, reflecting on her past foolish antics when she was a little fox around Qi Xian Qing made Yan Jue wish she could just smash her head against the cave wall. "Hmm?" Qi Xian Qing lightly nudged her leg, her tone ambiguous, "I asked you a question." Yan Jue’s eyes darted around, unsure how to respond, "Ask another question." Her voice was hoarse, tinged with a nasal tone. Hearing this, Qi Xian Qing’s heart softened slightly, grounding herself, she slowly said, "Shimei has a pure yin body, while I possess the most pure sword intent. Our constitutions match perfectly, which, if utilized, could be incredibly advantageous for cultivation." Qi Xian Qing quickly followed with, "Would Yan Shimei be willing to dual cultivate with me?" Another burst of thunder erupted over Yan Jue’s head. Qi Xian Qing’s expression was extraordinarily earnest. Yan Jue only had to glance at her before quickly diverting her gaze. Was this what Qi Xian Qing had been contemplating even while Yan Jue was absorbing her energy? Was this the thought process of an academic genius? She had absorbed Qi Xian Qing’s energy, and even if Yan Jue wasn’t knowledgeable, she understood the basic intimacy of such an act. Reflecting on Qi Xian Qing’s current demeanor, she didn't seem like someone coerced—rather, she seemed willing. Could it be that Qi Xian Qing also... Yan Jue dared not think further. Turning her flushed face aside, Yan Jue muttered, "I’m unwilling. I’m a demon, how could a demon and human possibly dual cultivate?" She did like Qi Xian Qing, and after absorbing Qi Xian Qing’s energy, her words sounded more tempting than ever. But Yan Jue wasn’t a child. She wouldn’t joyously leap at dual cultivation just because Qi Xian Qing suggested it. She knew the significance of dual cultivation. Qi Xian Qing was the chief disciple of a righteous sect, and she was a demon. If they truly dual cultivated, they’d be taking on immense risks. “Do ancient texts say monsters can’t dual cultivate with humans?” Qi Xian Qing casually glanced outside at the sunlight, musing, “I only know that compatible spiritual roots allow for dual cultivation, that dual sword wielders can try dual cultivation, and those who understand each other can dual cultivate.” Before she finished, Yan Jue interjected, “Do we understand each other?” “Do I like you?” Her tone was sharp, yet Qi Xian Qing faced her questioning without flinching, her lips curving slightly: “That’s what Shimei admitted herself a few days ago.” Yan Jue felt incensed. During energy absorption’s delirium, anything Qi Xian Qing asked, she’d answer truthfully, sure enough, Qi Xian Qing, you sly old fox. Qi Xian Qing turned to her, serious, “Shimei, I like you too.” Qi Xian Qing added, “Perhaps you already knew.” Or maybe she didn’t. In the quiet cave, only the sound of dripping water and the stream’s murmur could be heard. Sunlight beamed brightly outside. Qi Xian Qing’s voice was exceptionally light, like a sword constantly striking Yan Jue’s heartstrings. “My feelings for you aren’t just that of a senior sister for a junior sister.” Qi Xian Qing paused, seemingly talking to herself, “Maybe it was when you first saved me, that I began to feel this way. You didn’t abandon your duty despite your lower cultivation. That rare virtue drew me to you. Perhaps too, it’s simply because you’ve always stood before me as an equal.” Qi Xian Qing: “I have never met anyone quite like me.” Qi Xian Qing’s voice was low, possessing a clear purity, reminiscent of how she spoke to the little fox. Despite interacting with the human form of Qi Xian Qing for a long time, Yan Jue still felt most comfortable when she used this tone with her. Unknowingly, her guarded heart towards Qi Xian Qing softened considerably. “Is that possible?” Qi Xian Qing looked down at her, her heartbeat uncontrollably quickening, finally voicing the thoughts she’d kept hidden, “I ask that Shimei dual cultivate with me.” Yan Jue was caught off guard by her sudden serious tone, staring dumbly at her. Qi Xian Qing hesitated and confessed, “I’ve never dual cultivated before, lacking experience. I’ll try to learn.” Qi Xian Qing paused again, murmuring, “Perhaps there’s no need to learn... I know the basics.” “I’ll treat you well.” Qi Xian Qing looked into Yan Jue’s slightly widened eyes, her tone sincere and gentle, “We’ll try it for a month; if I make you uncomfortable, or if there’s anything you dislike, you can stop it.” “After that, I won’t bother you anymore.” Yan Jue remained silent, and Qi Xian Qing seemed to sense its lack of persuasiveness too. The little fox was so afraid of her, she probably wasn’t willing to dual cultivate with her. Qi Xian Qing knew Yan Jue valued cultivation above all, furrowing her brow slightly, she added, “In Shimei’s eyes, cultivation is the most important thing in life, which I share.” “Since childhood, I’ve thought cultivation was life itself, and anything beneficial to it is worthwhile.” Qi Xian Qing’s tone was gentle, as if negotiating good-naturedly with her. Yan Jue was principled; had Qi Xian Qing’s tone been any more forceful or her demeanor less friendly, Yan Jue would have immediately pushed her away. However, she had never imagined the typically composed and self-assured Qi Xian Qing could be so awkward with words. Qi Xian Qing: “If our dual cultivation can rapidly elevate our cultivation levels, wouldn’t it be ideal—” Her sentence left unfinished, her body momentarily stiffened. Yan Jue raised a hand, wrapped it around Qi Xian Qing’s neck, and gently embraced her. In the humid cave, the girl’s embrace was warm and soft, imbued with the warmth of sunlight. “Big Senior Sister,” Yan Jue whispered, her chin brushing against Qi Xian Qing’s shoulder, murmuring softly, “I like you too.”