Book Synopsis
Book Tags
Donation Rankings
Comment
0 Comments
You May Also Like
墨書 Inktalez
You Were Born a Nobleman, Chapter Eighty-One High Priestess, Your Belly Band Has Fallen!
"You can't get out; this is a deadlock. No matter if it's a person or a ghost, no one can escape. Shu Que Wu Pan," Liu Hanwen suddenly said gloomily.
The sweet atmosphere between Softy and Lang Ye was interrupted. Lang Ye glared at the ghost with dissatisfaction, thinking, can you say something nice? I was just hoping to enjoy my wedding night with my Little Beauty and have many children; can you not be so annoying?
Yuan Maiden hurriedly covered her husband's mouth: "Tan Lang, no matter what happens, I will not leave you."
Ghost Scholar said, "Wife, I have already harmed you for a lifetime, and now I have trapped you here. I am truly useless."
Lang Ye couldn't stand seeing a man wallowing in self-pity. Instead of moping around, he thought it better to find a way out. He reached out and knocked on the stone walls while asking the scholar, "Hey, scholar, why are you hiding here alone instead of being with the main force outside?"
"I... I'm guarding here."
"Guarding? Guarding what?"
"This." The scholar casually pointed behind him. They had not noticed before that there was an altar behind the scholar, and on the altar lay a large piece of jade. The jade was shaped like a pupa, semi-transparent, with thin red veins winding all over it. It seemed that something inside was flowing.
"That's disgusting," Softy said, covering her mouth as she barely suppressed her nausea.
Lang Ye skillfully took the opportunity to pull Softy closer, letting her rest her head on his shoulder. He gently patted Softy's back and said, "This is the Ghost Mother Jade Cocoon. It feeds on human blood but continuously produces Vengeful Spirit. Most of the ghosts in this cave are likely its offspring."
Softy exclaimed, "How can such an evil thing exist in this world? It wasn't here last time; can it be destroyed?"
The scholar replied, "It can't be destroyed; you can't do it. The Demon Lord will kill you."
"Demon Lord? Who is he? Who brought this thing to Peacock Mountain? What a mess!" Lang Ye released Softy, his gaze fixed sharply on Liu Hanwen.
Liu Hanwen looked dazed, as if talking to himself: "Demon Lord is just the Demon Lord."
"Are you messing with me?" Lang Ye suddenly grabbed Liu Hanwen, ready to slap him.
"Let go." Yuan Maiden, like an angry beast, lunged at him. Lang Ye used his other hand to grip Female Intestine's neck, holding both of them in his grasp.
Softy hugged his waist, "Lang Ye, let go! What are you trying to do?"
Lang Ye furrowed his thick brows and put down the two ghostly couple, "Damn it, I must destroy this ghostly b*tch. She cannot be allowed to remain in this world to harm others."
"But how do we destroy her?" Softy frowned, her face filled with confusion.
"Hey, what is this?" Yuan Maiden suddenly exclaimed.
Softy stepped forward to take a closer look.
In a flash, it was as if something was about to emerge. Lang Ye shouted, "Softy, come back!" But suddenly, countless small hands of children reached out from the Ghost Cocoon. The moment they touched Softy, she felt as if she were wrapped in a layer of slime, unable to break free. Then she was encased like amber. Yuan Maiden flicked her wrist and easily freed herself from Softy, and then the Ghost Mother Stone returned to its original state as if nothing had happened.
"Softy! Softy!" Lang Ye was almost frantic. He transformed into the Wolf Head Spear, and the sharp tip plunged deep into the Ghost Cocoon, blood gushing out, seemingly accompanied by Softy's scream, as if Lang Ye had stabbed her.
"Softy!" Lang Ye threw his spear aside and tried to tear apart the Ghost Cocoon with his hands, but it didn't budge at all.
It turned out that this was all a trap. The Vengeful Spirit, searching for her husband—everything was a lie. Lang Ye's eyes turned red, nearly driven mad. He grabbed Yuan Maiden by the neck and slowly tightened his grip, the veins on his hand bulging like snakes: "This is your scheme. Tell me, what do you want to use Softy for?"
Yuan Maiden struggled to breathe but still sneered coldly, "Lang Ye, your little * body is extremely yin; it's the perfect vessel for the Demon Mother. The spiritual energy of this Ghost Mother Stone is almost depleted, yet we unexpectedly encountered such a young and beautiful *; as long as the Demon Mother devours her soul and returns to her body, she can roam freely and hunt at will. Isn't that thrilling?"
"You are not even one of Cold Crow's people. Tell me how to save Softy!"
"Save? You can't save her. Lang Ye, are you so heartbroken over one little *? What about the countless people you and Kong Xuan killed three hundred years ago? Don't you think about how their loved ones must feel?"
"You are...?"
"Yes, I am not the Cursed Spirit of a Century, but a three-hundred-year-old Vengeful Spirit. Everything I say is true. My husband came up the mountain to hunt a mountain chicken but was burned alive by the war you left behind. I thought he abandoned us mother and child while searching for him. Not long ago, I found him; the Demon Lord said he could reunite us and help us take revenge. Do you really think I would easily let that little girl be bound? Do you think that fool from Cold Crow could truly become our master? Haha, Lang Ye, today you die here; next will be Kong Xuan. You war criminals will all die one by one!"
Lang Ye, both anxious and furious, his eyes blazing with fire, couldn't care less about their centuries-old hatred. He shouted angrily, "If you want revenge, come at me! Softy is innocent."
"Innocent? Don't say she's wanted by the Demon Lord. Even if she's someone you fancy, she must die."
Not wanting to entangle further with her, Lang Ye tossed her aside like a small chick next to the dazed Liu Hanwen, then he swung his arm with fingers curled like claws in an attempt to tear apart the Ghost Cocoon.
“Lang Ye, step aside, this is useless,” Lang Ye turned to see Huaisu, one of the Ten Kings of Hell.
It turned out that Huaisu had failed to catch the mysterious person and, upon returning to the cave entrance, sensed something was wrong. She no longer cared about the Underworld or the mortal realm and immediately flew into the cave. Lang Ye saw Huaisu as if she were a savior and hurriedly grabbed her arm, saying, “Huaisu, please save her.”
Huaisu glanced at him and asked, “It’s rare to see you this anxious. Is that girl named Softy very important to you?”
“Important, more important than life itself. I beg you, save her.”
“Beg me? Lang Ye, she is just a mortal, but you are an Ancient Demon God.”
“Why are you being so verbose? Without her, I’m worse than a dog.”
Huaisu was first surprised and then nodded slightly. “Lang Ye, for your deep feelings today, I will break the heavenly rules to save her.”
“What do we do now?”
“I don’t know; there’s no way yet. It depends on that girl herself. Yes, talk to her; she can hear you. You need to keep her conscious. That girl was born in a year, month, and day of Yin. If her soul merges with the Demon Mother, she will inevitably become a blood demon.”
“What? How could this happen? Softy, Softy, can you hear me? You must listen; you haven’t heard the answer yet. You need to stay awake; respond if you hear me.”
“Lang Ye, Lang Ye,” a faint voice came from within the Ghost Cocoon.
“Great! She’s stronger than I thought,” Huaisu said. “Keep talking.” Huaisu’s hands were surrounded by purple energy as she continuously struck the softest part of the Ghost Cocoon with powerful energy.
Lang Ye shouted, “Huaisu, be careful not to hurt Softy.” Then he turned back inside and said, “Softy, it’s been a long time since I had your corn soup with ribs. Tang Zisu always grabs the meat for himself and only lets me have the bones. You always shared your meat with me. Softy, do you know? Back then, I thought that when I have a bowl of rice in the future, I would definitely share half with you. When I have happiness, I’ll share half with you; when you suffer, I’ll bear it with you. Your pain is something Lang Ye shares with you now, so you must hold on.”
Softy lay in the Ghost Cocoon feeling like she could barely hold on!
It wasn’t that it was too painful; it was too comfortable. Red veins wrapped around her, enveloping her in a warm embrace. It felt like returning to the womb—warmth, familiarity, safety.
Sleep now, sleep now, my child; as long as you wish it, you will never leave your mother’s embrace.
Softy felt her eyelids growing heavier while her body felt lighter. She closed her eyes and imagined herself as a small child again—her mother wearing a blue floral dress holding her under the grapevines in the yard. Her mother gently patted her while humming a sweet song; the breeze was light, flowers fragrant, the moon round and stars beautiful!
“Softy, can you hear me? Don't you like it when I call you? I shout, woof, woof woof, woof woof woof, woof.”
Huaisu clearly shouldn't be distracted, but she felt a mix of wanting to laugh and wanting to cry. Hmph, what a big dog! If he had such a soft spot, he should have been tied to the pillar at the gate of Underworld Fertile Stone three hundred years ago, just to bark occasionally.
However, Huaisu would never tell Lang Ye this thought. If he knew, he would definitely say that a woman of her age who couldn't get married must have psychological issues. Look, doesn't this just prove it? An old * who can't stand to see others do well!
Softy's consciousness was already hazy; she felt lazy and relaxed all over. Yet the familiar barking jolted her nerves awake, making her muscles tense up. She struggled to focus her thoughts, trying to concentrate on one point: “Who? Who is it? Is it Ahei?”
At that moment, changes began to occur within the Ghost Cocoon. It was as if the amniotic fluid was boiling, bubbling up with gas. The intertwined red threads twisted and contracted painfully, gradually pulling away from Softy's body.
With her restraints gone, Softy slowly regained her senses. She fought desperately; she needed to get out. There was still a question waiting for Lang Ye to admit in person. She couldn't die here.
Those ugly things seemed to sense Softy's resistance and began to tighten their grip. Suddenly, many small creatures resembling babies emerged. Their skin was bluish-green, with sharp teeth and claws, glaring at Softy with blood-red eyes as they surrounded her.
These little monsters crawled all over Softy, sinking their sharp teeth into her skin and sucking her sweet blood while looking as innocent as nursing children.
Softy screamed in pain, her cries piercing through the membrane of the Ghost Cocoon, reaching Lang Ye's ears. He pounded on the Ghost Cocoon, shouting: “Softy, how are you? Softy, you need to save yourself! Use the weapon in your hand to fight back!”
“Weapon weapon weapon…” The words spun around in Softy's mind like an incessant scribble on paper. Suddenly, she remembered the King’s Umbrella that Huaisu had given her. She raised her arm with effort; one little monster was still swinging from her arm where its teeth were embedded. Softy pulled out the King’s Umbrella and loudly recited the incantation.
Boom! The King’s Umbrella suddenly expanded and opened up, its flowing rainbow light made Lang Ye, outside the Ghost Cocoon, cover his eyes. The little monsters let out wails and vanished; even the red threads snapped apart one by one. Huaisu clapped her hands together and exclaimed, “Well done, girl! Quickly, stab it right into the center of the Red Demon Sac! Hurry!”
At that moment, changes were also occurring outside the altar. Thousands of evil spirits seemed to sense their mother body was under threat and surged outward. Instantly, a chilling chorus of Vengeful Spirits echoed outside the cave, sending shivers down one's spine. The entire cave seemed to shake as rocks and dirt fell from above; it looked like it was about to collapse.
Huaisu, drenched in sweat with disheveled hair, shouted anxiously: “Girl, hurry! The Demon Mother is summoning her offspring to attack us! If you wait any longer, it will be too late!”
At this point, Softy stood beneath the deep Red Demon Sac. Holding the King’s Umbrella aloft, she was about to stab its broken blade into this pig-heart-like object.
“Softy, Mi Ruanruan, what are you doing? Why do you want to harm your mother?”
The pig-heart disappeared, revealing a middle-aged woman with a delicate face and slender waist—none other than Softy's mother.
“Mother.”
"Come on, throw away what you have in your hand and come to Mother," the woman extended her hand towards Softy, her smile calm and serene.
Softy approached step by step but did not throw away the umbrella in her hand. The woman seemed very afraid of this umbrella, desperately avoiding it.
Softy suddenly stopped: "You are not my mother; my mother has been dead for a long time."
"Silly child, you are now a wisp of soul, and so am I. Do you remember the song your mother used to sing to you? In Jiangnan, we can pick lotus flowers, the lotus leaves are so lush. Fish play among the lotus leaves." The woman's singing was gentle and enchanting; almost every night during her childhood, Softy fell asleep to this melody.
"Fish play among the lotus leaves east, fish play among the lotus leaves west, fish play among the lotus leaves south, fish play among the lotus leaves north." Softy continued singing, as if she had returned to over a decade ago when her family gathered around a dim oil lamp. She lay on the kang, listening to her mother sing while watching her sew quilts with a needle piercing through the lotus root, while her father rolled herbs nearby, the fragrant purple flowers long and delicate like her mother's braid. The faint flames flickered, filling the room with a sweet aroma.
"Mother, Mother, I miss you so much." Tears welled up in Softy's eyes as the Dharma King umbrella nearly slipped from her grasp.
Outside, the situation was worsening; many evil spirits had already broken in and were attacking Lang Ye and Huaisu. Seeing that Softy remained still and heard her calling for her mother, Lang Ye knew something was wrong inside. While entangled with the evil spirits, he shouted, "Softy, didn't you say you wanted a home? Someone who understands you? Come out; I am that person who understands you. I will give you a home, okay?"
Just as Softy was about to throw away the umbrella, she suddenly tightened her grip on it. Her gaze wavered in confusion as if she didn't know what to do.
Huaisu said, "Lang Ye, she might be seeing an illusion. You need to wake her up; right now, the resentment of the evil spirits is crashing against the barrier I've set up. If they break through, it could destroy everything; even those living below the mountain might suffer."
Lang Ye heard the song and gritted his teeth as he hummed along, "In the depths of the lotus leaves, which family's girl smiles and tosses a single lotus across the water."
"Lang Ye." Softy suddenly called out; the illusion before her shattered. What appeared was a grotesque heart. Softy closed her eyes and gritted her teeth. With a thrust of the Dharma King umbrella's broken blade, piercing through instantly, a shrill scream echoed endlessly as crimson blood mist scattered. Everything before Softy's eyes turned red until she could see nothing at all.
In a scene of carnage, the world finally became quiet!
Softy felt herself fall into a warm embrace; strong arms tightly wrapped around her as if silently protecting her. She was no longer afraid of cold rain or fierce winds and no longer feared walking alone on a long road.
When Softy awoke again, she had returned to Yama's Ten Halls. Lang Ye stood by her ornate couch, holding her hand with eyes full of tender affection.
Softy pulled her hand back from his grasp. "Is it all over?"
"Yes, Softy, you're amazing! You defeated the ancient demon blood cocoon Demon Mother and also destroyed that evil spirit lair. Softy, you are a heroine and a savior."
"What about Yuan Maiden? What about her husband Liu Hanwen?"
"What do you want with them? Do you want to punish them for their deceit? Don't worry, Huaisu has already brought them back. Whatever punishment is necessary will be applied; they will definitely regret deceiving you."
"I don't know what you're talking about." Softy pushed Lang Ye away, struggling to get down, but her feet slipped, and she nearly fell to the ground. Lang Ye quickly supported her: "You're still weak; what do you think you're doing?"
"While Yuan Maiden certainly did wrong, they were also forced into it. If it weren't for your war three hundred years ago, how would they and the evil spirits in the cave even exist? They are at fault, but the real culprit stands before me as if nothing happened, judging others' sins. Is that fair?"
Facing the accusation, Lang Ye remained unfazed. He helped Softy sit on the edge of the couch and squatted down to meet her gaze: "Softy, I have said before that I will take responsibility for my mistakes. Three hundred years ago, the Heavenly Realm, Human Realm, and Demon Realm became three realms. However, the Demon Realm was pushed into the dark underground by gods and Buddhas, unable to enjoy the essence of sun and moon. Babies were deformed, adults died young; in a world of darkness and chaos, we couldn't even get enough to eat. Why should we in the Demon Realm suffer such torment? At that time, both Kong Xuan and I were proud and arrogant, waging war against the gods without considering the consequences for all three realms. But once war broke out, it spiraled beyond our control. The three realms suffered greatly; Kong Xuan wanted to negotiate peace, but the enraged demons could not stop. Do you really think we were sealed because we lost? That was a choice made by Kong Xuan. The secrets behind this are not for outsiders to know. However, Softy, I have never regretted it. Even if I had to do it all over again, I would still fight for freedom and dignity. It’s just that back then I truly didn’t understand the value of human life; I thought victors were kings while losers were thieves. Since humans are so weak, losing their lives isn’t a big deal. But during my time without magic in the Human Realm after waking up, I deeply felt the weakness of being human and understood human sorrow. Softy, I won’t dwell on my past mistakes or feel remorse; that would be too pretentious. But I promise you that from now on, I will cherish life—whether human or beast—even a flower or blade of grass has life and deserves to be valued."
Listening to this, Softy's eyes turned red. After a moment of silence, she pushed Lang Ye away: "Why are you telling me this? I don’t understand."
"You do; I hope you understand."
"Why?"
"Because I want to give you a home."
"Impossible; you're a demon and I'm a human."
"As long as you are willing, nothing is impossible."
"I am not willing; demons and humans walk different paths."
Lang Ye looked deeply at Softy, his dark eyes filled with pleading: "Softy, give me a chance, and give Ahei who wants to protect you a chance too."
Softy wiped her tears with the back of her hand: "What does this have to do with Ahei?"
"Because I am Ahei."
"You are not."
"I am."
"You are not."
"I am."
Softy clenched her fist and pounded it down on Lang Ye's shoulder and chest like raindrops. "You are not, you are not. If I say you are not, then you are not."
Of course, Softy's playful punches didn't hurt, but Lang Ye looked at her with full affection. "Alright, if you say I'm not, then I'm not. Whenever you say I am, I will be."
Softy buried herself in Lang Ye's embrace, evading like an ostrich. "You can't compare to my Ahei. Ahei never lies to me; it only protects me, never gets angry with me, and doesn't talk back."
Lang Ye chuckled in amusement as he pulled Softy out to sit properly. "Is it like this? Woof, woof woof, woof woof." Lang Ye raised his paw in front of him, panting as he imitated a dog's bark. Softy burst into laughter, her small hands ruffling his wild hair. He nuzzled his large Wolf Head against Softy's chest, seeking the softest spot. His dog cosplay was so realistic that he didn't even need to transform or wear a costume; he was simply playing the role.
Suddenly, Softy's face flushed red. She reached out and slapped the Wolf Head, followed by a flurry of hits. The Wolf King, still lost in the warmth of affection, didn't understand what was happening before he was turned into a mess. As she hit him, Softy scolded, "This is what you get for pretending to be a dog and taking advantage of me!"
Softy gave a little kiss and thought to herself, didn't you realize that I am actually a dog in wolf's clothing!
The Wolf King's acting skills had reached an extraordinary level; whatever role-playing it was, he certainly wasn't under anyone's thumb—though that was another story.
Seeing that Softy was fine, Lang Ye took her to bid farewell to Huaisu. From a distance, they saw Huaisu with a man and a woman. Softy exclaimed in surprise, "Yuan Maiden Liu Hanwen?"
"Yes, Huaisu has taken them under her wing. Although they will face some punishment first, at least they can fulfill their wishes and won't have to part ways."
"Why is the Ten Kings of Hell being so kind?"
"Of course, it's because someone begged relentlessly for it. Young lady, I see you are also from a good family; make sure not to get too close to scoundrels or you'll be stuck with them for life," Huaisu's attitude had noticeably softened; she was almost joking.
Softy naturally caught the teasing tone in her words and blushed as she said, "Thank you for giving them a chance and for saving me."
"You don't need to thank me; I will naturally keep track of this favor for someone and expect them to repay it later."
Lang Ye smiled and said, "Sister Huaisu, don't worry. As long as I see Peng Yue, I'll definitely speak highly of you—something like 'a beauty with grace and knowledge who can bring peace to the world both through literature and martial prowess.'"
"Lang Ye, you're asking for it." Huaisu playfully threatened him with a whip.
"Good sister, please spare me. We've been out for quite some time; I'm worried Kong Xuan might get anxious and develop a serious rash. If he ends up with sores on his face, wouldn't that be my fault? Let's go back now; we'll come visit you again when we have time."
"Of course, we can go, but leave the things behind."
Softy was confused: "Lang Ye, what did you take from her? Return it quickly."
Lang Ye pulled Softy and tried to run: "There's nothing, don't listen to her nonsense."
Huaisu waved her fingers, and the Dharma King Umbrella above Softy's head flew back into Huaisu's hand. She sneered, "What, do you still want to take my things and leave?"
"Oh, this? Look at my memory; don't all you girls wear these things? I forgot, I forgot."
Softy thought that Huaisu had already taken the umbrella back and was surprised to find it still on her head. Feeling a bit guilty, she said, "I'm sorry, I really forgot. Thank you."
Huaisu played with the exquisite Jade Bone Umbrella in her hand: "I think you just didn't want to give it back. I didn't expect the little girl to be so greedy."
"Hey, who are you talking about? You can insult me, but you can't insult my Softy. With that broken thing of yours on your head, it's disgusting. I think Peng Yue just avoids you because he doesn't like it."
Huaisu's face turned pale with anger: "Lang Ye, how can your mouth be so vile? If you dare mention that name again, I'll make sure your wolf clan goes extinct."
"Hey, is it appropriate for a girl to say such things? Forget it, let's go. We can't let you corrupt Softy." Lang Ye sighed and pulled Softy away.
"Stop." Huaisu pulled Softy aside. Since she was facing away from Lang Ye, she didn't see the triumphant smile on the wolf's face.
Huaisu handed the small umbrella to Softy: "This is for you."
Softy hurriedly tried to return it: "That won't do; this is your magical item. How could a mere mortal like me have the right to take it?"
This was only the second time in her life that Huaisu had offered something and been refused. The first time was when she offered herself to the Golden-Winged Roc King Peng Yue and was rejected; now she was being rejected by a little girl for her Jade Bone Umbrella. Huaisu couldn't hold back her expression anymore; she truly became angry.
"If you don't want it, then throw it away. You've already used it; I won't take it back because I find it dirty."
Lang Ye secretly poked his palm hard: "Good, I've been waiting for this sentence. My Softy’s body is so delicate; how can she not have a protective magical item? I'm interested in your umbrella; as for your person, let Peng Yue have her."
Lang Ye pretended to be sincere: "Softy, just accept it. Sister Huaisu means well."
Softy reluctantly accepted the item, while Huaisu felt like slamming the table in frustration.
After passing the Bridge of Helplessness, a woman caught up with them; it was Yuan Maiden.
Lang Ye squinted and coldly asked, "What do you want now? Are you looking for a fight again?"
Softy: ........
Yuan Maiden: "I dare not. I just wanted to thank the young lady and apologize."
Softy replied, "It's fine, it's nothing. If it weren't for you, we wouldn't have discovered that altar."
Lang Ye looked at his wife with admiration: My Wife is truly magnanimous, kind, and stunning!
She deserves a thumbs up!
Yuan Maiden knelt before Softy: "Young lady, Yuan Maiden deceived you and harmed you, but in the end, thanks to your kindness, I was taken in by the Ten Kings of Hell. I can be with my Husband forever. I have no way to repay you, so I will bow three times. If there is ever a need in the future, my husband and I will not hesitate to help."
Softy reached out to help her up: "You don't have to do this. I forgive you because you are a pitiful woman. You did those things out of necessity. From now on, focus on your cultivation and do not harm others again."
After Yuan Maiden left, Lang Ye became interested and said, "Softy, how about I take you to explore this Hot Annoyance Hell?"
"Let's just go back; everyone must be waiting anxiously."
Lang Ye felt disheartened. Can’t you be a little more romantic? He wanted to wander with her in the endless Cloud Sea, hold hands, share a hug, and then steal a kiss. Why are you so unromantic?
"How about this? Let's look down from the clouds together, okay?"
Wow, are you being coy now? Have you learned to act cute? How can you not be utterly adorable?
Lang Ye's playful eyes made it hard for Softy to refuse, so the two flew above the clouds and enjoyed a stroll in the sky!
Below Hot Annoyance Hell was the North Sea of the Northern Underworld. Looking down from the pure white clouds revealed an eye-catching blue below. Softy exclaimed, "How beautiful! How can this possibly be hell?"
"Like it? If you do, I'll bring you here often. There are many beautiful places in the Three Realms, like my hometown, which is an endless prairie. Cattle and sheep bloom like flowers in the meadows, and the sky is as blue as the ocean. In the distance, snow-capped mountains shine brightly. At night, I lie on the grass with a jar of wine, and the fragments of stars seem to want to fall into the jar. Not far away, there are beautiful lakes where fireflies rest in the long grass by the shore. When I throw a stone over, a large area of green light rises from the water, making me think that stars have fallen into the grass."
Softy rested her chin on her hands, filled with longing. "It sounds beautiful just hearing you describe it. I really want to see it."
"It’s true. If I get the chance, I will definitely take you to see it."
"Okay," Softy replied softly, her ears gradually heating up, turning red. This response felt like an agreement to him.
Lang Ye felt his heart racing but was filled with warmth. He reached out and held Softy's hand in his large one. "Softy, I will make you happy."
Softy pulled her hand away; Lang Ye's promise was too beautiful yet felt as distant as the clouds in the sky. She replied lightly, "Let's talk about it later."
The two floated through the Cloud Sea, while Kong Xuan on earth was in dire straits. The oil in the soul-retrieving lamp was nearly exhausted, and their bodies were growing colder by the moment. If the lamp went out and they didn't return, they would truly be unable to return to their physical forms.
Tang Zisu recited Buddhist scriptures with great difficulty, sweat covering her forehead. Kong Xuan wiped her sweat with a cloth and gently encouraged her, "Hold on, just a little longer."
Tang Zisu closed her eyes, her long eyelashes fluttering a few times as a response.
Jumping was not as calm as Tang Zisu; she tried to stand up several times but was pushed back down by Little Fish. Anxiously twisting her body, she felt a layer of anxiety growing within her.
The oil lamp flickered and then flashed several times as if about to go out.
At a critical moment, two beams of white light finally appeared. Without time to say anything, Kong Xuan reached out and pushed their souls into the formation. The entire process was like lightning flashing by, while Jumping nervously pinched her thigh.
"Finally back! Kong Xuan, did you miss me?" Lang Ye stood up and laughed heartily while opening his arms toward Kong Xuan.
Kong Xuan punched him on the shoulder. "I wish you would die."
Emma! Even though his eyes were red from emotion, what difference would admitting it make? Just keep pretending!
Despite receiving a punch from Kong Xuan, Lang Ye still embraced him; men didn’t need to say sentimental words. That punch was enough to prove how anxious Kong Xuan had been just moments ago.
Softy also stood up. "Thank you all for your hard work; I'm back to normal."
Tang Zisu's lips were dry, and her face was pale. She smiled weakly, "It's good to be back, but can someone help me up? My legs are numb."
Kong Xuan reached under her knees and lifted her up. "Come on, I'll take you to rest first."
Lang Ye became anxious. "Kong Xuan, I haven't finished telling you about my amazing adventure yet. You can't just leave; come back."
Little Fish, who had been watching in a daze, finally remembered something important as Kong Xuan disappeared from view. He shouted, "Zhu Tiao Tiao, let go! The meat is going to fall off!"
It turned out that Jumping was twisting Little Fish's thigh, but Little Fish's reflexes were too slow; he really did get twisted!
Kong Xuan placed Tang Zisu on the couch and poured her some water. Then he said, "You rest for a bit; I’ll go check on Lang Ye."
"Xuan Xuan." Tang Zisu reached out and grabbed Kong Xuan's sleeve.
"What's wrong? Can't bear for me to leave? Be good and rest well; we have important matters to attend to tonight."
"Important matters? What is it?"
Kong Xuan leaned close to Tang Zisu's ear and whispered something. Tang Zisu immediately blushed. She reached out and hit Kong Xuan, saying, "What’s wrong with you? One moment you're as cold as ice and can't be warmed up no matter what, and now you're all slick and smooth-talking. When did you start thinking about these things?"
Kong Xuan playfully scratched her little nose with his finger. "No matter when it is, we can't stop having children."
Tang Zisu grabbed a piece of clothing and threw it at him. "Get lost."
Kong Xuan caught it with one hand, sniffed it under his nose, and looked utterly enchanted. "So fragrant! High Priestess, your belly band has fallen."
Tang Zisu looked at the snow-blue satin embroidered with pink peach blossoms that Kong Xuan was holding—it was indeed her belly band. Seeing him make such a flirtatious expression made her feel like her face could catch fire. Remembering how she felt humiliated by Old Demon earlier, she smiled charmingly at Kong Xuan and said, "It's your belly band!"
Kong Xuan was taken aback for a moment before tucking the belly band into his clothes. Just before leaving, he whispered, "Wait for me to check if you're wearing your belly band!"
Could the male god not say such lewd things so straightforwardly? How can anyone sleep after that? One sentence could lead to a thousand words of imagination—it's truly annoying!
As Kong Xuan stepped outside, he pressed down on Lang Ye's shoulder. "Damn it. I thought you were going to battle for three hundred rounds before coming out."
"Seeing you so anxious, save some energy to deal with you," Kong Xuan replied, particularly ambiguous, which startled Lang Ye.
Seeing Lang Ye's foolish expression as if he had eaten a fly, Kong Xuan burst into laughter. "Lang Ye, look at you today."
"Kong Xuan, this is so unusual. How long has it been since you laughed like this?"
Kong Xuan suddenly stopped laughing and said coldly, "What's so rare about my laughter? Do you want to buy it?"
"I'm full and have nothing to do. I can laugh myself. Ha ha, look, my teeth are so white."
Kong Xuan pulled Lang Ye a few steps into the study, closed the door, and said, "Now tell me, what happened that made you so anxious?"
"Hey, no wonder you're my good brother for thousands of years. You can tell something's wrong just by looking at my eyes. Kong Xuan, brace yourself; this time it's really serious."
Lang Ye told Kong Xuan everything that had happened. Indeed, after listening, Kong Xuan fell silent, his brows furrowing into an unresolvable knot.
"Kong Xuan, what should we do next? The enemy is too powerful, and we are too weak. Although we destroyed the Graveyard this time, we don't know what else might come next. This body is too useless; it's weak and fragile. Kong Xuan, I'm afraid—afraid I can't protect those I want to protect."
Kong Xuan's gaze was vacant for a moment before he said, "I'm afraid too, but fear is useless. What’s meant to come will come. It seems he wants to play a cat-and-mouse game with us; he is the cat, and we are the mice." Kong Xuan looked up at the sky and sighed deeply. "They always talk about fate, but when have we demons ever believed in that? We have done things against fate before. Lang Ye, we will never show weakness, we cannot compromise, and we will not lose."
Kong Xuan's words were like a reassuring pill for Lang Ye. No matter whether Kong Xuan had a solution or not, just hearing him say that made Lang Ye feel at ease. Three hundred years ago, facing a hundred thousand Celestial Soldiers and the Nine Heavens Mysterious Buddha, Lang Ye had laughed nonchalantly even when only one soldier remained. As long as he looked up and saw the undefeated Peacock King, he felt confident again. He patted Kong Xuan on the shoulder and said, "How about we return to the Demon Palace? I know you can't bring yourself to harm her."
"Yes, we'll go back in a few days."
In the following days, Peacock Valley seemed to return to its peaceful life. People seemed to have forgotten about the incident at the Mountain God Temple; they didn't even pay attention to the inexplicable fire that broke out there. They continued farming and hunting as usual and worshipped at the Shrine as if the rain from above had washed away their memories. They remained simple-hearted and kind; Peacock Valley was still beautiful and peaceful.
Tang Zisu had been working hard lately. She dug out old books that had not been touched for years in the study and begged Kong Xuan to teach her spells and magic while also dragging Jumping to teach her archery.
Under the Osmanthus Tree, Little Fish tied Jumping to the tree with an apple on his head while Tang Zisu closed one eye and aimed with a bamboo arrow.
"High Priestess, don't be reckless! Force is not the fundamental solution to problems. Big should not bully small; strong should not insult weak; many should not rob few; cunning should not deceive foolish; noble should not look down on lowly; rich should not scorn poor; strong should not overpower old. Therefore, in all nations under heaven, no one should harm others with water or fire or poison or weapons."
Tang Zisu chuckled coldly as she gradually pulled back the bowstring with more force.
"Stop it, stop it! I have nine generations of single inheritance. Among the three unfilial acts, having no descendants is the worst. Hurry, hurry, stop!" Little Fish's eloquent speech turned into sobs as Jumping stuffed another apple into his mouth. Jumping stepped aside, clapping his hands while glancing at Little Fish's lower body with a mischievous smile and said, "Nine generations of single inheritance? Then was your elder brother adopted? Does that mean your Sister-in-law has nothing to do with you? Then I don't have to call you Uncle."
"Wuwu... Wuwu... Wuwu..."
Jumping hopped over to Tang Zisu's side and urged, "Hurry up and shoot; he's getting impatient."
"Please go ahead." Tang Zisu relaxed her grip, and the bamboo arrow joyfully zipped through the breeze and air, heading straight for her Apple-kun.
Little Fish turned pale with fright, tilting his head to the side, thinking, let me faint!
The apple bounced from Jumping's head to the ground, rolling happily a few times.
Puff! The bamboo arrow accurately struck above, not deviating at all.
Oh my God! Little Fish foamed at the mouth, truly scared to death.
Tang Zisu walked over to pick up the apple, tilting her head in confusion. "How strange! As long as I think about shooting it, I can hit it no matter where I am. Is this what they call an archery genius? Why hasn't this talent been discovered in modern society? Otherwise, I would have been an Olympic archery champion by now. What a waste of a great opportunity to bring glory to my country!"
Kong Xuan came out of the house, frowning as he grabbed Tang Zisu's hand. "Stop practicing; look at your hands—they're calloused. The sun is so strong that you've tanned. Hurry inside; we need to learn spells."
Tang Zisu was speechless. "I’ve only shot a few times! My hands are smooth and tender without a single scar. Besides, it's a cloudy day; where's this blazing sun you’re talking about? Are you really treating others like fools?"
Jumping watched the two hold hands as they went to the study and felt dizzy. What kind of rhythm is this? Can't they see me, a living person? Forget it; I'll go practice swordsmanship with Master Langye.
Jumping left as well, while Little Fish remained tied to the tree. He called out Wuwu, "You better let me down!" The only response was the sound of the wind whistling past.
Life is so tragically unbearable!
Comment 0 Comment Count