148 - Confession (Ying Cheng)

Chapter 148: Laying Cards on the Table Qi Xianqing and Yan Jue strolled leisurely out of the grand palace hall. The night in the Capital was lively, filled with the incessant buzz of people, and the streets bathed in a warm glow from the lanterns. Yan Jue suggested, "Shall we keep wandering?" As they stood side by side by the palace walls, Yan Jue, dressed in a light blue attire, had her ink-black hair tied back with a ribbon, with the rest cascading freely in the breeze. Unseen by others, Yan Jue gently brushed her fingers against the back of Qi Xianqing's hand. Qi Xianqing felt the familiar warmth and her lips curved slightly, "Alright." Maintaining her awareness as she usually did when out and about, Qi Xianqing sensed something unusual and turned her head. A woman, who had been shadowing them for some time, emerged from the shadows of the alleyway as soon as she noticed Qi Xianqing's attention. Yan Jue was momentarily stunned. The woman, dressed in black with a pallid face and unsteady steps, appeared frail. However, there was a faint flush on her cheeks. Tilting her head, the woman gazed at Qi Xianqing, "Master." Yan Jue was taken aback. This woman was Ye Yunying, a subordinate of the Demon Lord from the Valley of Despair. Not long ago, Ye Yunying had entered into a master-servant contract with Qi Xianqing, infiltrating the side of the Demon Lord as a spy. Her presence here was unexpected. Pressing a hand to her chest, Ye Yunying's breath was hot and hurried. She staggered forward, knees giving way, falling abruptly before Qi Xianqing. With a thud, Qi Xianqing's brows knit slightly, "You're poisoned." Struggling, Ye Yunying looked up at Qi Xianqing, managing a pained smile, "Master, I beg you." "I've indeed been afflicted with the Demon Lord's poison. Please... help me." Since separating from Qi Xianqing at the Deer Mist, Ye Yunying had returned to her perilous position by the side of the Demon Lord. Ye Yunying had long tired of the Demon Lord and the role of a spy. The upright Qi Xianqing, known for her principled actions, was not one to resort to cruelty or treachery. If she successfully distanced herself from the Demon Lord, their master-servant contract would dissolve naturally. However, escaping the Demon Lord's grasp seemed impossible for Ye Yunying. She had been drugged, the effects of the substance manifesting monthly, leaving her without antidote if she left. Initially, Ye Yunying's plan was to endure in the Demon Lord's presence, but when the revered Entity of Despair sought alliances with the leaders of the three fearsome clans—the lion, tiger, and serpent—expecting her to interact closely with them, her resolve crumbled. In her desperation, Ye Yunying thought of Qi Xianqing. Regardless of the nature of their contract, Qi Xianqing was now her master. Thus, she came seeking Qi Xianqing's help. Qi Xianqing glanced up, scanning the area seeing no one around, and lifted Ye Yunying into her arms. Since she had a master-servant contract with her, Qi Xianqing could freely manipulate Ye Yunying's form with a mere gesture, concealing her entirely. Ye Yunying had been under the drug's influence for most of the day, surviving only through sheer will. Gripping Qi Xianqing's neck weakly, her body devoid of strength, she noticed the soft fabric and the subtle plum blossom fragrance surrounding her. Instinctively, she tightened her grip, breathing deeply, finally feeling safe for the first time in days. Qi Xianqing and Yan Jue weaved through the bustling streets, arriving swiftly at a secluded inn. As Qi Xianqing set Ye Yunying onto the bed, a soft moan escaped her lips. Yan Jue was at a loss, briefly glancing at Qi Xianqing and tugging gently on her sleeve, cautioning, "The Capital conference has brought together many sects." Qi Xianqing nodded, "I know." Yan Jue suggested, "We can reach out to Song Miyun." Meeting her gaze, Qi Xianqing acknowledged, "Then, Ah Jue, please contact her." Yan Jue retrieved a communication talisman, finding Song Miyun among the contacts. Likely because Yan Jue was viewed as a rare and precious medicinal resource by her, Song Miyun, a healer, always showed great enthusiasm in interacting with Yan Jue. Describing their situation briefly to Song Miyun, she agreed promptly. When Song Miyun arrived, Ye Yunying's condition had worsened, her face flushed with pain as she clutched the sheets, clearly unable to hold on much longer. Song Miyun gently assessed her pulse, "I'll prescribe a few medicines." As a healer, Song Miyun was frail, her wrist adorned with a string of black jade beads, highlighting her porcelain complexion. From her storage artifact, a slip of paper emerged, upon which she scribbled a prescription with the inn's ink and brush before handing it to Yan Jue. From her collection, she also retrieved a light blue pill, offering it to Yan Jue, "Administer this internally." "The prescription I provided needs to be gathered and applied externally to her dantian." Taking it, Yan Jue expressed her thanks to Song Miyun. Bound by their master-servant contract, they couldn't leave Ye Yunying unaided. "It's been a while since I last saw you. You appear healthier than ever," Song Miyun remarked, glancing at Yan Jue. Yan Jue smiled sheepishly, administering the pill to Ye Yunying, who, overwhelmed with pain, buried her face into the bedding. Song Miyun inquired, "How goes your practice of the Blood Refining Technique?" Like kindred spirits, Yan Jue didn’t hide the fact. "I've reached the fifth level." In this world, practices typically had a ranking system, generally six levels. Yan Jue had mastered the six levels of the 'Minor Yin Ice Soul Technique' at Five Dragon Mountain. Now with the fifth level of her current technique completed, she was nearing the pinnacle once more. Song Miyun couldn't help but sigh softly, "The spiritual intuition of the nine-tailed fox is truly remarkable. Pity it’s not mine." Qi Xianqing, seated by the table, couldn't help but react slightly to Song Miyun's words, her fingers curling minutely. Yan Jue deflected, "She mentioned earlier that without an antidote, her poison can't be cured." "Will the prescription help her?" Shaking her head, Song Miyun responded, "No." "It only suppresses this bout of poisoning." Silence enveloped the room briefly. Looking at Ye Yunying, Song Miyun's voice remained serene, "This poison, though difficult, is intriguing." Listening to her tone, Yan Jue perceived there might yet be hope for Ye Yunying's condition, remembering how devoted Song Miyun was to curing rare ailments. Qi Xianqing, seizing an opportunity, added, "In that case, please, lend your aid." Song Miyun nodded, "I will attempt." As Song Miyun lifted Ye Yunying, who was still writhing in pain, her hot breath falling upon Song Miyun's neck, it seemed as though the actions caused her no discomfort. She remained focused, seating Ye Yunying, before applying the necessary acupuncture. After conferring briefly with Song Miyun, both Qi Xianqing and Yan Jue left the room, closing the door gently behind them, "We need to return to the palace soon." "If we linger, it might arouse suspicion." Yan Jue nodded in agreement. Back at the palace, they entered rooms designated for disciples of various sects. Once there, Yan Jue flicked her wrist, and the white bead bracelet on her arm shimmered faintly before disappearing, transforming into a beautifully furred white fox at her feet. For this visit, Yan Jue had brought Bai Ying along, concealing her true form as a bracelet around her wrist. After giving Bai Ying a few reminders, the fox leaped gracefully, transforming into a small fly. It buzzed away, out of view. Watching this, Qi Xianqing grinned, "Is this how you usually have it spy for you?" Watching the departing fly, Yan Jue replied absently, "Indeed, Bai Ying is quite capable." Qi Xianqing's eyes crinkled warmly, her voice soft, "You’re also quite capable." Flustered by the praise, Yan Jue’s expression softened, her faint smile fading quickly. Noticing the shift, Qi Xianqing approached, tenderly running a finger along Yan Jue’s hand, "You're on edge, aren't you?" Yan Jue nodded, her thoughts burdened not only by present matters but by what was looming on the horizon. Her identity was too sensitive; the longer she remained at Five Dragon Mountain, the greater the danger grew. Yet she couldn't leave—important matters remained unresolved. With the Demon Lord so near in the capital's palace, it was natural for Yan Jue’s mind to dwell on numerous possibilities. Qi Xianqing seemed momentarily resigned, silent for a while before suddenly leaning down, her nose gently touching Yan Jue's, whispering, "Ah Jue, don't be afraid." A subtle fragrance of plum blossoms wafted closer, clear and fresh like the first snow in a forested mountain, swirling like mist around them. Startled, Yan Jue glanced up at her. Qi Xianqing gazed softly, her voice tender, "No matter what happens, I'll protect you." In the silent room, where even the fall of a pin could be heard, Yan Jue slowly extended her arms, embracing Qi Xianqing. - In her room, Yan Jue was calculating the time when she heard Bai Ying's voice in her mind, indicating that Bai Ying had reached the Demon Lord's room. Yan Jue climbed onto her bed, activating her celestial art 'The Insightful Eye'. Now in the sixth realm of cultivation, Yan Jue no longer needed charms for her vision, having mastered the celestial art to enable it effortlessly. Through Bai Ying, Yan Jue witnessed a shocking scene. In the dimly lit palace chamber, on a broad and expansive bed, the Demon Lord and Guang Xian were entangled, their intermingling bodies vividly displayed. It seemed they had only recently begun their tryst, as Guang Xian's underwear wasn't fully removed yet, noticeable with a distinctive embroidered pattern on it. A pattern of heather. The room echoed with heavy breathing. Sitting astride Mu Zhong Zi, Guang Xian gently kissed him, smiling, "The farewell banquet at the Five Dragons Gate is in a few days, and our household will certainly attend." Qi Xianqing noticed her unusual expression, asking, "Is something wrong?" With a cold sweat forming on her forehead, Yan Jue withdrew her celestial art, whispering, "It was nauseating." Previously, Bai Ying had found a man's undergarment in the Demon Lord's room, and when Yan Jue saw the eunuch Guang Xian, she already had suspicions about the Demon Lord's relationships. But seeing it firsthand was truly unsettling. - Daily, Yan Jue had Bai Ying fly to monitor the Demon Lord's movements. Surprisingly, Guang Xian clandestinely visited Mu Zhong Zi's room nightly through astral travel. This affair was meticulously hidden; the Demon Lord's room was shielded by barriers, and no sound could escape, while the secretive art of astral stepping greatly masked their rendezvous. Seven days swiftly passed, marking the time for different sects to leave the capital's palace. The imperial courtyard, deep and secluded. Li Xi sat in a pavilion, gazing up at the crystalline plum blossoms shimmering in sunlight, her obsidian robe exuding a stately presence in the light. Surrounded by a circle of beauties, some massaging her legs, others fanning her, one nestled in her arms, perceptively asked, "Is Your Majesty troubled?" Li Xi replied softly, "The rankings of the immortal sects have changed significantly this year." "Five Dragons Gate, once always at the bottom among the six great sects, has now risen considerably." Suddenly, footsteps could be heard approaching. Li Xi looked up to find a girl standing on the opposite side of the lake, looking back at her. The girl, in a pale pink horse-faced skirt, had bright red lips and white teeth, with naturally enchanting features. Her beauty was indeed pleasing to the eye. As soon as the girl appeared, patrolling guards surrounded her for questioning. Recognizing her, Li Xi stood, calmly asking, "What brings the young celestial to seek my audience?" Li Xi was of noble lineage, known for her exceptional metallic spiritual roots, extremely rare in the world. Despite being an Empress, she diligently practiced cultivation; her voice carried easily across the lake to Yan Jue, letting her hear clearly. Surrounded by guards, Yan Jue approached and bowed to Li Xi, "Your Majesty might want to take note of Chief Eunuch Guang Xian's associations." "The assessment of sect rankings is often influenced by Chief Guang Xian's connections, which could affect the rulings." Li Xi's eyes darkened, "Why do you say this?" As royalty, Li Xi despised nothing more than her courtiers having clandestine dealings with the sects. Yan Jue divulged, "I happened upon something in my sect leader's room." Without producing the item, Li Xi understood her meaning and dismissed the others, forming a seal with her hands. A barrier closed around the pavilion, obscuring the interior from outside view. Only then did Yan Jue leisurely take out the underwear. The wrinkled garment emitted a peculiar odor. No longer a maiden, Li Xi easily recognized the implication of that smell. Her attention quickly shifted to the embroidered heather pattern. Li Xi frowned at Yan Jue. She recalled this girl was from the Five Dragons Gate, implying the sect leader likely referred to Mu Zhong Zi. Guang Xian was known for his intimacy with the leader of Five Dragons Gate, and as a disciple, one might expect her to be pleased by the association. Yet, Yan Jue presented this matter to her instead. Li Xi could surmise the reason—a matter of internal sect politics, perhaps even a dispute over the leadership position or some other matter meant to remain in the shadows. Not keen on interfering, Li Xi found the revelation sufficient. Li Xi nonchalantly stated, "I understand. Such filth in my palace... thank you for informing me, young celestial." "I shall deal with Guang Xian accordingly." - Back at Five Dragon Mountain, preparations for the farewell banquet of the Five Dragons Summit began in earnest. Qi Xianqing, the most senior disciple of the sect, had reached the sixth realm, gaining much favor from the sect. In the intervening days, she was so busy that she was rarely seen, her duties keeping her well occupied. Rumors, some more credible than others, began circulating within the sect. They spoke of how recently Qi Xianqing had gained Mu Zhong Zi's favor and that he, alongside Yun Zhen from the Zhentian Sect, was competing to have her under their wing. No one found this surprising. Both Mu Zhong Zi and Yun Zhen were strong individuals, naturally wishing to recruit the sect’s most talented disciples. This kind of occurrence was not unheard of before. Because of her obligations, Qi Xianqing inevitably spent less time with Yan Jue. Staying mostly in her quarters for cultivation, Yan Jue overheard fragments of these rumors. But she paid them little mind, choosing instead to focus on her practice. On the day of the farewell banquet, many sects gathered. The atmosphere was lively, filled with clinking glasses and joyous chatter. Unlike the previous welcoming banquet, this time notable figures from various sects joined alongside their disciples. Luvian Pavilion was a no-show once more. After the marriage debacle, Luvian Pavilion seemed to have faded into obscurity, replaced by the healers of Lotus Island. Song Miyun attended the banquet, representing the sect elders, her impassive expression unwavering as she sat in her spot. Aware that Ye Yunying had been with Song Miyun recently, and knowing her dedication meant she'd ensure Ye Yunying's recovery, Yan Jue intended to inquire about her wellbeing later. The banquet was set at Sword Dance Square, where sect disciples busily networked, creating a vibrant scene. Chief Eunuch Guang Xian’s absence was something Yan Jue had anticipated. Before evening fell and festivities began, Yan Jue sat idly, observing the bustling movement around her, until a voice caught her attention. Du Ming cheerfully took a seat next to her, fiddling with his cloud-shaped smoking pipe. Yan Jue chuckled, "You brought it out again?" It wasn’t surprising; having never handled such a magical artifact, to Du Ming, the pipe was almost sacred. Du Ming declared, "From today, I decree this cloud-pipe is my lifeline!" Yan Jue laughed joyously. They conversed aimlessly when the surroundings fell unusually silent. Mu Zhong Zi, clad in rich purple robes, stepped onto the platform. The attendees were youthful disciples, some naturally rambunctious ones playfully called out, "Greetings, sect leader!" "When will today's banquet commence?" "The top three group competition prizes have been distributed! What about participation rewards?" Mu Zhong Zi, with a pleasant demeanor, replied warmly, "We've set up this feast, offering everyone a taste of rare Guanlan Wine. Isn't that a participation prize?" The assembly erupted in laughter, the atmosphere light and harmonious. Amidst the shared amusement, the sect leader spoke, "I have an announcement to make." With Mu Zhong Zi’s authority well-established in the sect, his words hushed the previously boisterous hall. Grinning, Mu Zhong Zi continued, "A few days ago, I dispatched Xianqing on a mission to seek ingredients for the Elixir of Immortality." Immortality—a revered pursuit for cultivators. Countless forebears of past epochs ventured along the path of cultivation for its promise. Throughout history, many have labored extensively over the desire for immortality. Sadly, tangible results remained elusive. If a sect were to succeed in crafting such an elixir, it would surely cause a sensation across the cultivation realm. Knowing the ambition of Five Dragon Mountain's leader, Mu Zhong Zi, the revelation of pursuit in immortality was no shock. Admiring voices chimed in, "Indeed, the senior disciple is Five Dragons Summit's champion, gracefully handling such tasks." As disciples sought a sight of Qi Xianqing amidst the gathered crowd, her presence became increasingly elusive in the packed venue. Qi Xianqing was often busy and her whereabouts uncertain. "So, did the senior disciple manage to find the ingredients during her travels?" someone asked. Mu Zhong Zi replied with excitement, "Only one final ingredient remains before the elixir can be completed!" Today’s banquet included not just disciples from the Five Dragons Gate but also elders and disciples from the six major sects. This spectacle was clearly a declaration to all that the status of the Five Dragons Gate had transformed. Consequently, people looked upon Mu Zhong Zi with a newfound respect. "Today, I also have a second announcement!" he declared. Elder You Long gently stroked his beard, smiling, "What's the news, Senior Sect Leader?" Mu Zhong Zi’s gaze swept over the crowd and landed on Yan Jue. His previously amiable face turned severe, "Within our Five Dragons Gate, a demon has infiltrated!" His words sent a shockwave among those gathered. "Where is this demon?" "Seriously? Even with the current situation, a demon still managed to slip into the Five Dragons Gate?" Expressions of extreme disgust spread across the disciples’ faces. Some even began searching with demon-revealing mirrors, while the faint of heart started looking around nervously. Yan Jue's hand paused involuntarily. Mu Zhong Zi declared fiercely, "She is among us, corrupting our disciples for some time. Today, on behalf of the sect, I will administer justice on the spot!" Joy flickered in his eyes—an excitement akin to a hunter readying to pounce on prey. Most people hadn’t realized who he meant, busy scanning for the demon. The ground began to tremble violently. Someone screamed, "Look over there, at the Suppressing Demon Tower!" The iconic Suppressing Demon Tower atop Wanghai Peak, a landmark used for disciple trials, was suddenly uprooted by Mu Zhong Zi with a gesture and swiftly flying through the air toward them. Everyone looked in horror as the towering structure barreled from the sky, imposing and magnificent. Disciples from various peaks exclaimed and scattered. Yan Jue, recognizing the tower's trajectory, instinctively stood to evade it. Exactly as she had feared, the tower aimed directly at her. Before she could move, the Suppressing Demon Tower hung above her, descending with force. Yan Jue's pupils contracted as she rolled on the ground. A dark golden barrier enveloped her. Everything happened in the blink of an eye. For a moment, Yan Jue felt breathless, suffocated under the weight of the tower above her, as intense pain seized her chest. The tower glowed, and golden chains ensnared her wrists firmly. Du Ming, who had been speaking to Yan Jue moments ago, gaped in shock at the scene. The sect leader spoke of demons among them, but how could it be... Du Ming looked from the tower to Yan Jue's pallid face, his arm trembling as his heart pounded like thunder. Hoisted into the air, Yan Jue swayed violently in the wind. She barely managed to crack open her eyes amidst the glaring light, bound for all to see by the Demon Lord. Below, Yun Zhen frowned, "Mu Zhong, if you have something to say, couldn't you address my disciple directly without using the Suppressing Demon Tower like this?" The Demon Lord sneered, "Look closely: is this really your disciple?" With a sweep of his right hand, a radiant white light illuminated the disciples previously standing casually around the Sword Dance Square. The Demon-Slaying Formation! In an instant, Yan Jue's blood ran hot, a surge of bloodlust rising within her—a savage beast clawing from her chest, uncontrollable under the formation's effects. The pressure summoned forth the ancient presence of a red fox, ferocious and daunting. Yan Jue tried to move her hands but hung immobilized. She noticed Du Ming's shocked glance below, reading the layers of complexity and aversion on his face. His treasured artifact clattered from his grasp, ringing with a sharp note. "No way, Yan Jue is really a demon?" "I recall she only recently wielded the celestial sword Liubing, how could she be a demon?" "Exactly, I believe she appeared as a fox spirit earlier." "Disgusting! When I saw her charm Chu Fu, I thought she was a fox spirit. How did she infiltrate our Five Dragons Gate?" Mu Zhong Zi smiled, slowly extending his hand, gently pressing downwards, "Do not worry, everyone. This creature is merely a low-level fox spirit, and I've already subdued it." Yun Zhen squinted, his gaze ice-cold and dangerous. Mu Zhong Zi lowered his eyes, giving Yun Zhen a dismissive glance, speaking slowly, "Yun Zhen, lord of Zhentian Sect, has been significantly seduced by this demon, neglecting duties." "His elder status is revoked, and he is to meditate facing the wall on Guardian Peak for two years. Meanwhile, all Zhentian Sect responsibilities will be handled by senior disciple Qi Xianqing." "From now on, Qi Xianqing is the mountain guardian elder of Zhentian Sect." Given Yun Zhen’s frequent opposition, Mu Zhong Zi had long wished to discipline him. This incident served as a convenient pretext. Mu Zhong Zi then raised his hand again, extracting a fist-sized talisman from a pouch at his waist, its runes glimmering softly in the candlelight, "Now, I will execute this demon, also clarifying Five Dragons Gate's stance." Yan Jue no longer bore a human appearance. The Demon Lord's mysterious formation exerted an extraordinary hold over demons, rendering Yan Jue’s golden eyes hollow, her resistance had fled. Suspended with hands bound, mobility robbed. She stared, tense, at Mu Zhong Zi before her. "Humans and demons are irreconcilable!" The talisman in Mu Zhong Zi's hand blazed blindingly, launching like an arrow. Fiery dragons coiled around it, roaring with immense force, surging toward Yan Jue's dantian with determination. End of Chapter.