143 - Confession (Ying Cheng)

Chapter 143: An Affair For this journey to find the Xiangjing Grass, having Duan Luxi lead the way would surely shorten the time spent in Mount Taihua significantly. Yan Jue and Qi Xianqing parted ways to head back to their dorms and pack. On her way to the Water Cloud Sect, Yan Jue unexpectedly encountered Yun Rang. Dressed in the brown robe of the Qidun Sect, Yun Rang approached slowly. "This team competition, we owe our thanks to you, Daoist Yan." Yan Jue responded, "It's nothing." Yun Rang watched Yan Jue, her hand by her side clenched unconsciously. Since Qi Xianqing had begun her ascent up the mountain, Yun Rang had never ceased her rivalry, although it was always one-sided. Qi Xianqing had never really paid her any serious attention. In the previous individual competition, it was sheer bad luck that she encountered Qi Xianqing early on, costing her a chance at the top three. Before this team competition had even begun, gossip within the sect was already stirring—some mocked her, others placed bets on her. Yun Rang couldn’t imagine how she would face her master if she failed to secure a place in this team competition either. She had more faith in her individual competition because, unlike the group’s focus on puzzles, the individual event felt more like her arena. Had it not been for Yan Jue providing her with a crucial clue in this team competition, she might have lost… Thinking about this, even the proud Yun Rang felt a tinge of gratitude toward Yan Jue. Yan Jue chuckled softly and shook her head. "No problem. Senior Sister Yun, keep practicing hard. Aim to be the champion at the next Five Dragon Summit." --- The next day, the three of them gathered at the foot of Five Dragon Mountain. Upon seeing Qi Xianqing, Yan Jue noticed that she was holding a messaging charm. Although Qi Xianqing was well-liked by everyone in Five Dragon Mountain, messaging charms weren't as handy as phones, so she rarely used them. Generally, whenever Qi Xianqing used a messaging charm, it was to communicate with Yun Zhen. Yan Jue observed Qi Xianqing and couldn't help but feel curious about what Yun Zhen needed from her at this time. Duan Luxi soon arrived, quickly diverting Yan Jue's thoughts. Duan Luxi, dressed in an emerald robe with her long hair tied up high, said, "Junior Sister Yan, I remember the last time we went out on a mission together, it was to South Star Town, right? Back then, even Senior Sister was with us." "I remember last time you were just at the Foundation Establishment stage. Now you're…" Duan Luxi paused, gulping. Yan Jue now carried the nickname 'Second Senior Sister' within the sect after displaying her skills at the Five Dragon Summit's individual competition. Duan Luxi worried that if Yan Jue revealed her true abilities, it might scare her to death. Yan Jue smiled without answering, not out of distrust toward Duan Luxi but because secrecy was a common practice in the world of cultivation. Concealing one's true strength to use as a trump card was frequent among cultivators. Everyone had their own reservations. Even if Duan Luxi understood, she would surely comprehend Yan Jue's actions. The trio wasted no time, flying on their swords swiftly to reach the borders of Jiangnan. Mount Taihua was located there, in a rural area with sparse village settlements along the way. As they traveled, Duan Luxi recounted, "Mount Taihua is one of the famed mountains of the world. Its paths are treacherous with countless caves and forests." "I originally went to Mount Taihua to find the snow lotus, but I accidentally fell off a cliff and into the valley while picking it." "The valley is full of forests and many rare herbs, including the Xiangjing Grass." Yan Jue graciously said, "I leave guiding us to you, Senior Sister Duan." Duan Luxi laughed, "It's no trouble. I should thank you, Junior Sister Yan, for helping our team clinch the championship." As the two chatted, Qi Xianqing quietly walked alongside them. Not one to enjoy conversations with more than one person, most of Qi Xianqing's words were typically reserved for Yan Jue. Unconsciously, the group had journeyed for quite a distance. Qi Xianqing stayed silent for a long while. Unsettled by Qi Xianqing's silence, Yan Jue tried to engage her in conversation occasionally. Qi Xianqing glanced up at her, dark eyes deep like a pool, responding good-naturedly. Watching their interaction, Duan Luxi felt increasingly puzzled. The subtle exchanges between them seemed warmer and more mutual than what ordinary disciples and sisters shared. Though their conversations were typical, there was something different, almost imperceptible. Intrigued, Duan Luxi’s gaze fell on the faint purple charm hanging at Qi Xianqing's waist. The sight nearly shocked her soul out of her body. Yan Jue also had a similar but broken purple charm hanging at her waist, carefully wound with silk ribbon, chiming gently in the sunlight. They seemed to have once been part of the same piece. Typically low-profile at Five Dragon Mountain, Yan Jue only now chose to hang the charm outside for this trip. Duan Luxi only noticed it now. Qi Xianqing walked slowly beside Yan Jue, her eyes like stars, with an inscrutable face. Sunlight accentuated her delicate features, her moon-white dress flowing like snow, large sleeves bringing a faint scent of plum. A black long sword was strapped on her back, her posture straight, a juxtaposition of vivid black and white. No way... Duan Luxi had gone on missions with Qi Xianqing before. Back then, Qi Xianqing came across as aloof, like an unattainable immortal. Though not completely distant, her refined demeanor carried an inherent sense of detachment. Rumors in the sect said that Senior Sister was cultivating the Path of Emotionlessness and would never take a Dao companion. Moreover, Qi Xianqing and Yan Jue were once considered arch enemies. Her eyes shifted to their two swords, one black, one blue, trailing behind them. She shook her head quickly, dismissing her own thoughts. Impossible. --- Dusk soon settled. The setting sun cast its glow upon the verdant mountains distant, creating a picturesque scene. Yan Jue stopped and turned to Duan Luxi. "Senior Sister Duan, it's already late. Is there an inn nearby? We should find a place to rest." Duan Luxi replied, "There are no inns. We can find a villager willing to take us in for the night." Familiar with the area, Duan Luxi, leading the way, skillfully weaved through paths until they reached a large manor. The estate was sizeable, with green tiles and fence-lined peach trees. It appeared to be a prominent family in the village. After knocking on the door's latch, Duan Luxi whispered, "I stayed here once before; the owner is kind and surely will let us stay." Yan Jue nodded. A girl in a light green robe opened the door, momentarily surprised to see Duan Luxi. "Miss Duan, weren't you here just a few days ago?" Duan Luxi laughed, "Jiangnan's beauty lingered in my mind, so I've returned." "Don't try to fool me. I know you cultivators can travel thousands of miles at will." The girl teased back playfully. Duan Luxi introduced Yan Jue and Qi Xianqing to her. After listening carefully, the girl nodded gently, "We're just preparing dinner. Since you're here, please join us." Skilled in social interactions, Yan Jue struck up a conversation with the girl, learning her last name was Zuo and her name was Qi Er. Duan Luxi discreetly slipped Qi Er a few copper coins, which she accepted with a warm smile. The entire Zuo family was notably hospitable. With dusk approaching, the aroma of food wafted through the house. At dinner, Yan Jue inquired about Mount Taihua. After all, Qi Er's family had lived in the area for years and would surely know more than they did. As she served dishes, Qi Er replied, "Half an hour's walk along this road will bring you to Mount Taihua." Yan Jue thanked her, "Thank you." Rumors said Mount Taihua was the earthly residence of immortals, inhabited by strange birds and large snakes, forbidding to ordinary people. Yet, qi er quipped, “But to you cultivators, what we mere mortals fear should be no worry at all.” Qi Xianqing smiled lightly, "Though that may be, cultivators aren’t completely fearless travelers." "That's right, Qi Er. Don't exaggerate. Cultivators are quite similar to us," the elderly lady of the Zuo family, dressed in a long gown, smiled, "You'll still need caution. Mount Taihua is said to be the playground of deities. An old ape said to be fiercely strong guards it." As dinner progressed, the conversation became lively with people speaking freely. Qi Er laughed, "The allure of immortality is immense. Many have ventured to Mount Taihua, but most never return." Finally having finished dinner, Yan Jue thanked the Zuo family once more, preparing to retire. Suddenly, she noticed Qi Er carrying a steaming plate of food toward a room on the far left. Qi Er was a petite, frail-looking girl, and carrying such a large tray seemed slightly burdensome for her. Yan Jue quickly moved to help, taking the tray from Qi Er's hands. "Where should we take these dishes?" she asked. Qi Er pointed towards a nearby door. "Thank you, honored immortal. Just to that room over there." Yan Jue followed Qi Er into the room. Looking around, Yan Jue found it unusually clean, without any signs of regular occupancy. Qi Er placed the dishes on a table near the window. Yan Jue paused briefly, asking, "Are these dishes prepared for a relative returning from afar?" The girl shook her head. Considering there were only a handful of people at the dinner table earlier, Yan Jue couldn't quite grasp why Qi Er would leave the dishes there. Qi Er explained, "This was my grandfather's room." Yan Jue carefully chose her next words, "Does your grandfather still live here? The room doesn’t seem to be used." Qi Er replied, "Grandfather left home three years ago." Yan Jue was taken aback. "If he left home, then why..." Qi Er furrowed her brow. "It's quite a strange tale." Intrigued, Yan Jue looked at her. After a moment, Qi Er softly said, "Although my grandfather left, he returns every now and then." Yan Jue hesitated to ask, "Have you ever seen him return?" Qi Er replied, "He doesn't come in when there are people in the room. But my grandmother has seen him once or twice from outside the window. Every time she does, he seems different." She elaborated, "His clothes are tattered, and leaves cling to him as if he's been deep in the mountains..." "I've no idea why he chose to leave in the first place." "Grandfather is over a hundred and twenty years old, and his legs aren't very nimble. Every time he returns, he climbs through the window." Qi Er thought for a moment. "He comes back about every three months, sometimes on time, sometimes not. It just so happens that these few days mark the period of his returns. Grandmother instructed us to leave good food in his room just in case." Yan Jue nodded thoughtfully. Qi Er tugged at her hand. "Honored immortal, I want to show you something." Curious, Yan Jue followed her. The Zuo family estate was vast, and Qi Er led Yan Jue to a vacant study. On the desk lay a painting, which Qi Er unfurled and handed for Yan Jue to see. Yan Jue paused slightly. The painting depicted a kindly old man in a green robe, sitting on a peach wood chair. At his feet was a young girl, hair tied in two buns, whom he affectionately patted on the head. Qi Er frowned slightly. "Grandfather has always been so fond of us juniors. It's baffling to me why he would leave like this." Suddenly, an idea came to her, and she looked at Yan Jue expectantly. "Daoist Yan, since you're going to Mount Taihua tomorrow, could you perhaps look for my grandfather?" Yan Jue considered the location of the Xiangjing Grass that Duan Luxi mentioned and responded apologetically, "But we might not venture very deep into the mountains. Our activities are likely confined to the outskirts of Mount Taihua." Qi Er persisted, "But what if?" "If Grandfather returns periodically, it means he can't have gone too far. Just keep an eye out for me, and if you can't find him, that's fine." Qi Er added, "Though Grandmother doesn't say it, I know she misses Grandfather very much." Yan Jue nodded in understanding. After parting with Qi Er, Yan Jue headed to her room alone. Though the Zuo family was wealthy, being a rural household, there weren't many rooms available. Consequently, Yan Jue shared a room with Qi Xianqing, while Duan Luxi had a room to herself. As Yan Jue walked through the long corridor, she unexpectedly saw Duan Luxi standing at her door, staring at her with a peculiar expression. Duan Luxi appeared puzzled. "Yan Jue, your relationship with Senior Sister Qi wasn't always good. Why are you sharing a room with her?" Yan Jue hesitated, "Sharing a room makes it less lonely?" Duan Luxi was left speechless. She offered, "If you're uncomfortable, I could share the room with Senior Sister Qi?" Yan Jue paused for a moment, then smiled awkwardly, "No need, thank you for worrying about me, Senior Sister Duan. I'm fine sharing with her." Duan Luxi watched Yan Jue's retreating figure, her eyes narrowing slightly. --- When Yan Jue returned to the room, Qi Xianqing was sitting at the desk, absorbed in a book. Given Yan Jue's ease in socializing, she'd often engage with others, gleaning unexpected tidbits of information. Qi Xianqing allowed her to interact freely. Hearing the door close behind her, Qi Xianqing put the book down. "How was it, Junior Sister Yan?" she inquired, her tone slightly cool. Perhaps Yan Jue's attention during the journey had been diverted by conversations with Duan Luxi, and later with the Zuo family, making Qi Xianqing feel somewhat neglected. Yan Jue chuckled, sitting by the bed, swinging her legs. "My apologies, Senior Sister, for the inconvenience today." She stood up, arranging the teacups and pouring Qi Xianqing a cup with a respectful flourish. "My dear, tonight I'll serve you." Amused by Yan Jue's teasing, Qi Xianqing finally smiled. Leaning back lazily, Qi Xianqing observed, "Why did you return distracted?" Yan Jue frowned slightly, slipping down between Qi Xianqing's legs and wrapping her arms around her neck. "What do we do? I think Duan Luxi might have realized something about us." Qi Xianqing held her waist, her hand gently sliding down her back, her expression tranquil. "Duan Luxi's character wouldn't allow her to spread such matters." Yan Jue agreed, "True." "But there's something else." Taken aback, Qi Xianqing listened intently as Yan Jue recounted her earlier encounter with Qi Er and the trek to the unoccupied room. Yan Jue elaborated, "Qi Er said her grandfather is over a hundred and left home three years ago but comes back every few months." Qi Xianqing nestled against Yan Jue, her head softly resting on Yan Jue's chest, falling silent. Feeling a bit awkward in this pose, Yan Jue steadied herself with one hand on the table behind her. "What do you think about this, Senior Sister?" Qi Xianqing contemplated, "People can turn into spirits after a century, never dying—it isn't impossible." Yan Jue understood Qi Xianqing's implication. Some live so long that, even after their lifespan ends, they don't die but become wandering spirits or demons—like mountain spirits. These spirits might still retain some of their earthly attachments, occasionally returning home even if they roam deep into the mountains. There have been centenarians in history whose souls perished, yet their bodies didn’t. After death, they would flee to the wilderness, known as mountain spirits, a kind of specter. Consequently, Qi Er's wandering grandfather might very well have transformed into a ghost or demon. But this was mere speculation, given they hadn’t witnessed Qi Er's grandfather firsthand. Yan Jue asked, "Qi Er mentioned her grandfather might return tonight. Do you want to watch for him?" Qi Xianqing replied, "No." Playfully, Yan Jue questioned, "Why not?" Qi Xianqing simply stated, "When traveling, it's best not to meddle in others' affairs unnecessarily." She raised her gaze to Yan Jue, "Do you want to check it out?" "A little," Yan Jue admitted, snugging closer and planting a kiss on Qi Xianqing's cheek, "but I'll follow your advice." With nothing more to discuss, they basked in each other’s company. Though Qi Xianqing felt a bit irked about having Duan Luxi join the journey, holding Yan Jue now dispelled any of those feelings as she savored the girl’s gentle heartbeat. Yan Jue's warmth was all the confirmation Qi Xianqing needed. She belonged to her. Qi Xianqing carefully undid Yan Jue’s collar, grazing lightly against her skin. Yan Jue gripped Qi Xianqing's clothes tighter as she buried her head low. With the blood of the nine-tailed fox, Yan Jue's body was hyper-sensitive, and just a touch from Qi Xianqing was enough to send her reeling. Having already set an array in the room to block any sound, they kept their actions modest since they were guests. Qi Xianqing lay Yan Jue on the bed, who lazily extended a hand toward her. In a low whisper, Qi Xianqing requested, "Call me 'sister,' and I'll dress you." "Big Sister," Yan Jue managed, her voice faint. As she purred the words, Yan Jue’s fingers gently twisted around Qi Xianqing’s hand, her amber eyes resting solely on Qi Xianqing with a trusting dependence. Qi Xianqing smiled, knowing she had the cleansing spell to keep the bed clean, softly saying, "Good, stay obedient." She gently parted Yan Jue's knees and lowered her head. --- The next morning, when the group prepared to head deeper into the mountains, Yan Jue still felt drowsy. She donned a lightweight, soft green pleated skirt, her long black hair tied back with a ribbon, as she leaned against Qi Xianqing at the entrance of the manor, waiting for Duan Luxi. Qi Xianqing, hands folded behind her back, stood tall by the gate, gazing at the distant, verdant mountains. Watching Yan Jue lean on her, Qi Xianqing smirked slightly. "Not fully awake, Junior Sister Yan?" "As a righteous cultivator, one should be mindful of appearances when outside." Annoyed but amused, Yan Jue shot back, "It's all your fault; now I have no energy." Patiently, Qi Xianqing offered, "I can carry you." Yan Jue looked at her speechlessly. "Senior Sister Duan is around. Do you think that's appropriate?" Qi Xianqing seemed to recall something and chuckled softly. "That's quite unfortunate." Yan Jue: "..." Just then, Duan Luxi emerged, having finished washing up, only to find Yan Jue speaking closely and somewhat sternly with Qi Xianqing. The two seemed in much too close proximity. Duan Luxi: "..." --- The three emerged from the Zuo family's courtyard, heading north. Before long, they reached the base of Mount Taihua. Duan Luxi declared, "Rest assured, with me leading the way, we'll definitely find the Xiangjing Grass today." As Yan Jue stepped onto the mountain path of green stone steps, she suddenly heard an unusual set of footsteps behind her. Before she could turn around, Qi Xianqing had already spun on her heel, her icy gaze fixating on the newcomer. A young man clad in a blue robe stood behind them, seemingly having arrived unnoticed. He appeared to be on a mountain trek as well, with an exquisite bone flute tied at his waist. His azure robe was trimmed with gold and silver, exuding an indescribable air of luxury. Due to his sudden appearance, the three stopped in their tracks. Seeing people of the same path, the young cultivator seemed delighted. He stepped forward, offering a courteous salute. "Are you fellow Daoists here to seek rare materials in Mount Taihua?" Duan Luxi took a moment, then asked, "And you are?" The young man cupped his hands again, introducing himself, "I am Meng Hang from Breeze Valley. Pleased to make your acquaintance." The bone flute at his waist was a dead giveaway of his Breeze Valley affiliation, coupled with his lavish robe. Yan Jue pieced together his identity quickly. None of the three responded immediately. Encountering other sect members while searching for rare materials was a delicate affair. With a limited supply of such materials, clashes over them between sects were inevitable. The world of cultivators was rife with underhanded tactics, and such squabbles often turned violent. Unawares, Meng Hang from Breeze Valley seemed quite unaffected by the silence hanging in the air. He cupped his hands once more with a conciliatory smile. "I heard there's very rare Xiangjing Grass in Mount Taihua, which I'm here to find. Might I know what you seek, fellow Daoists?" Meng Hang further proposed, "Why not travel together?" "The deep forest is dangerous, and since you're ladies, it'd be safer to go together." It wasn't surprising that disciples from other sects came here seeking Xiangjing Grass. Though not as rare as the first few herbs requested by the Demon Lord, Xiangjing Grass was still a highly sought-after material for advancement. Even if Duan Luxi stumbled upon it, other sects, equally capable as Five Dragon Gate, surely had ways to trace the material as well. Though the six major sects occasionally dealt with internal strife, none aired such matters openly. With Meng Hang inviting them to journey together, Duan Luxi found it difficult to refuse directly. Duan Luxi turned around, casting a questioning glance at Yan Jue and Qi Xianqing. Qi Xianqing responded calmly, "It doesn't matter. If Daoist Meng wishes to join us, let's go together." Meng Hang's eyes instantly glued themselves to Qi Xianqing. "Great." Yan Jue: "..." Walking alongside Qi Xianqing, Yan Jue couldn't help but vent, "Why did you let him come with us, Senior Sister? Breeze Valley might know the location of some Xiangjing Grass. Who's to say it isn't the one Senior Sister Duan found? If he comes along and tries to take it, what do we do?" Qi Xianqing replied, "Breeze Valley has always maintained amicable relations with Five Dragon Gate. Since he proposed going together, we couldn't decline outright." "We'll find an opportunity to slip away later." Yan Jue chuckled quietly at that. Yan Jue then used voice transmission to communicate with Duan Luxi, who acknowledged and approached, whispering, "Did you two sleep well last night?" Yan Jue’s brow furrowed slightly, "It was fine. It was quite peaceful last night." Duan Luxi inquired, "What's with those pendants you're both wearing on your waists?" Yan Jue was momentarily at a loss for words. Duan Luxi nudged Yan Jue's arm playfully. "Come on, tell me. When did you and Senior Sister start your... association? Did you seduce her, or did she seduce you?" Yan Jue really wished she could cover Duan Luxi's mouth right then. Did she think Qi Xianqing couldn't hear, or what? Seeing Yan Jue not respond, Duan Luxi grew more suspicious. Whichever way it began would be quite the tale. Her curiosity palpable, Yan Jue could only flash her a mild, inscrutable look. Duan Luxi's eyes widened, her mind racing through myriad past interactions between Yan Jue and Qi Xianqing, leading to an audacious hypothesis. She must be the first in Five Dragon Gate to know about this. Given how discreet Yan Jue and Qi Xianqing have been, it's evident that they wish to keep it under wraps. She'd help them safeguard their secret! With an expression that said 'I know, but I won't tell,' Duan Luxi gave Yan Jue's shoulder a hearty pat and nodded at her. Yan Jue: "..." The four ventured deeper, traversing the mountains for about a stick of incense's worth of time. Suddenly, a faint yet unusual sound reached them from ahead. Qi Xianqing paused, squinting. Meng Hang from Breeze Valley halted too, puzzled by the noise. "What's that sound?" The wind carried the sound more clearly to their ears. It was a very faint, trembling noise resembling a baby's cry. Yet, how could there be a baby deep in the mountains? Perhaps it was some kind of beast—maybe even a rare and valuable one. Meng Hang's eyes sharpened as he moved toward the source of the sound. Qi Xianqing warned, "There are many dangers in these mountains. It would be wise not to go." Meng Hang smiled confidently. "Thank you for your concern. I've reached the peak of the Fifth Stage and can handle spirits and demons." Pressing through the underbrush, a bizarre bird came into view—large, with jet-black feathers and a long, slender beak. Seeing Meng Hang, the bird spread its wings and emitted a louder baby-like cry, seemingly to intimidate. Meng Hang's gaze settled upon the eggs beneath the bird. Four or five blood-red eggs rested in the nest. Although the species of this bird was unknown, one could always acquire more materials in the depths. Moving cautiously, Meng Hang edged closer. The bird opened its beak, lunging its sharp mouth right at him. Meng Hang sidestepped deftly, waving his left hand. Instantly, a figure appeared before him—an imposing Daoist whose eyes glowed with golden light, staring sternly at the bird. The bird charged, desperate to protect its nest. Meng Hang's summoned Daoist counterattacked, raising a hand that felled a nearby large tree. In a flash of flying dirt and debris, Meng Hang managed to drive the bird off, pushing through the brush and reaching the nest. His eyes alight with fervor, Meng Hang reached out and placed all the bird eggs into a small pouch. But when emerging from the thickets, he found that the three who had been waiting were nowhere to be seen... ... Yan Jue and her companions moved quickly, already inclined not to travel with others in the mountains. Descending a steep slope, they veered into an overgrown path indicated by Duan Luxi, finally shaking off the Breeze Valley disciple known as Meng Hang. Having visited before, Duan Luxi led them skillfully to a cliff face. Now halfway up Mount Taihua, mist shrouded the cliffs, a chilly wind ruffling their clothing, casting an almost celestial feel to the surroundings. Gazing out, the lush mountains and dense forests sprawled below. Duan Luxi said, "That's where I descended last time." "Vines will allow us to climb down." Taking the lead, Duan Luxi grasped the rock face vines and swung down. Yan Jue and Qi Xianqing followed closely behind. The trio soon found themselves in the forest below the cliff. With thick trees all around, sunlight filtered through the canopy, and their steps created a satisfying crunch on the dry leaves underfoot. As they walked, Duan Luxi narrated, "This forest looks ordinary, but it's brimming with rare herbs and spiritual plants. Look over there." Yan Jue looked up. Amidst the lush pines and cypresses, stood a small black tree. Yan Jue, having perused the extensive library at Five Dragon Mountain, immediately recognized it. Scarlet Secret Wood. It was aligned with the wood element in the Five Elements, greatly benefiting cultivators with a wood spirit root. Not far from where Yan Jue stood, a small blue flower swayed in the breeze, encircled by a faint mist. That was none other than an aura, a testament to its rarity and value. Azure Spirit Flower. This forest indeed held hidden treasures. Recalling what she had read about Xiangjing Grass in ancient texts, Yan Jue explained, "Xiangjing Grass is a dark, mysterious color, making it easily identifiable among the myriad plants here." "Senior Sister Duan, do you remember where you saw the Xiangjing Grass last time?" Duan Luxi said, "The forest is vast. I didn't think I'd return, so I didn't leave any markers." "But I vaguely remember. Let me try to find it." They moved slowly through the forest, avoiding the hanging vines that brushed against them. Their soft white shoes rustled against the ground, the only sound in the serene silence surrounding them. Yan Jue glanced around, something suddenly coming to mind. She turned to Qi Xianqing, raising her eyes slightly. "Remember yesterday at dinner, Qi Er mentioned something about a treasure-guarding spirit beast in this mountain?" Qi Xianqing replied, "Yes, a white ape." Yan Jue pondered, "But we've been walking in the mountain for quite a while now and haven’t seen any spirit beast guarding treasures." Qi Xianqing noted, "The mountain is vast. It might be on its way here." Yan Jue hesitated, "Really?" Qi Xianqing didn’t respond, simply smirked and extended her hand to Yan Jue, pressing her palm downward as if to coax her closer, "If you're scared, come here." Yan Jue glanced at Duan Luxi, then shot Qi Xianqing an unimpressed look. "I’m not scared." Observing their interaction, Duan Luxi's heart raced a little faster. Her suspicions seemed to be on point. Surely, she was right about her guess. Duan Luxi discreetly clenched her fists to suppress the smile tugging at her lips. I know, but I won't tell!