The Sunset Forest was located in the center of the Heaven Dou Empire, and aside from the Star Dou Great Forest, it was the largest forest on the continent.
Although its vegetation wasn't as thick as the Star Dou Great Forest—where the canopy blocked out the sky—it was significantly easier to move around in. The soul beasts that lived here were also much weaker in comparison. Most were within the thousand-year to ten-thousand-year range, and there was far less variety in species.
Even so, the Sunset Forest was still a treasure trove for soul masters seeking soul rings.
Night fell like a curtain. In the deep mountains and wild forests, nighttime was the most dangerous time. Therefore, there were not many human soul masters in the Sunset Forest at night.
Dugu Bo brought Ye Qiu and flew directly toward the herb garden surrounded by his poisonous mist.
Not long after—
A mist-shrouded valley came into view.
Dugu Bo paused mid-air, then dived down toward the ground and landed. He let out a long sigh, "You brat, you've worn this old man out!"
They had flown nonstop for an entire afternoon and half the night. Even Dugu Bo, a Titled Douluo, was a bit worn out.
Ye Qiu's hair was nearly blown off by the wind. He curled his lip, "How is that my fault? I reminded you to slow down."
"Hmph! You may have asked me to slow down, but Yan Yan wouldn't have. If I took my time, she'd ignore me for days—and my beard doesn't allow me to slow down either!"
Dugu Bo snorted coldly and glanced at Ye Qiu. Back then, when he thought he had gained a grandson-in-law, he was excited that he'd finally not be at the bottom of the family hierarchy. But what happened? It was like gaining half a new ancestor!
As he spoke, Dugu Bo didn't waste any time. With a bit of manipulation, the thick, greenish poisonous mist began to churn and quickly opened into a small path.
"What's there to be afraid of? If she ignores you, just tell me. I'll help straighten her out..." Ye Qiu wore a smug expression. After all, Dugu Yan acted quite docile and affectionate when she was with him. He was already missing that soft, supple snake-like waist of hers.
"Hmph. Your head is full of garbage!"
Ah Yin's voice rang out in Ye Qiu's mind at just the right moment, tinged with a bit of annoyance.
Ye Qiu chuckled indifferently and composed himself.
He raised his foot, chest out, ready to go find a snake to stroke—but suddenly realized his feet were no longer touching the ground.
Ye Qiu turned around in confusion and looked at Dugu Bo. "What the hell, senior? Why are you grabbing me again? We're already at the doorstep! Don't mess around!"
Dugu Bo just gave a sinister laugh.
"You brat, when did I ever ask you to teach Yan Yan? What business is it of yours if she ignores me? You'd better behave! If I find out you've bullied Yan Yan, I'll poison you to death!" On Dugu Bo's shoulder, a small snake slithered out from under his collar. The Nine-Segment Jadeite Snake stuck out its tongue threateningly at Ye Qiu.
"Come on, I was trying to help you, old man..." Ye Qiu looked at him with an odd expression. This Dugu Bo really was a weirdo.
"No need! Get lost—!"
Dugu Bo laughed lightly and flung Ye Qiu straight into the passageway.
"Ahhh! Damn it—! You old coot! You don't know how to appreciate kindness!" Ye Qiu flew through the air, feeling the poisonous mist surge on both sides and the ground rapidly approaching beneath him. His body was suddenly covered in a two yellow and one purple soul ring.
From the first soul ring, the image of the Soft-Boned Rabbit flickered. In the blink of an eye, a black, leathery armor enveloped Ye Qiu, making his body more compact and flexible.
Just before Ye Qiu was about to faceplant into the ground, his body shuddered and vanished from midair.
Xiao Wu's third soul skill—Teleportation!
Tap!
Ye Qiu's feet landed on the ground—he had entered the valley.
Calling it a "valley" wasn't quite accurate.
The place Ye Qiu arrived at was more of an inverted conical basin, surrounded by steep rock walls. The sky above was veiled in a thin mist, like clouds, but the light was still bright.
At the bottom was a flat plain, with several small wooden cabins built around the edges.
And at the very center—
A spring, split clearly into red and white, flowed harmoniously side by side.
The Ice and Fire Yin-Yang Well!
The ultimate fire and the ultimate ice coexisted without clashing. Where the scorching red spring and the freezing white spring met, thick mist rose steadily upward.
Around the spring, all sorts of vibrant herbs grew in abundance, filling the air with a rich medicinal aroma.
"Whew~ Good thing this young master is nimble!"
Ye Qiu chuckled and promptly released his martial spirit attachment.
"Ye Qiu!"
Ah Yin's delighted voice rang in his mind.
"This place is truly magical. I feel warm and comfortable all over—feels even better than being with you."
"Ye Qiu? Ye Qiu?!"
When she got no reply, Ah Yin called out again. Then, slightly irritated, she looked up and realized Ye Qiu was now staring at a girl in a purple slit cheongsam.
She looked sixteen or seventeen, with long purple hair, delicate features, luscious red lips, and green eyes that made her appear a bit otherworldly.
Her fully developed figure was tightly wrapped in the form-fitting dress, highlighting her alluring curves.
A deep cleavage and a full bosom were prominently on display.
But even more captivating than her chest was her slender waist, delicate as a willow branch, and the smooth, fair legs that peeked from beneath her long dress with every step—truly tantalizing.
She had rushed out the moment she heard the noise. Upon seeing Ye Qiu, her lovely face blossomed with delight.
"Little Brother Qiu~"
The girl called out sweetly and instantly transformed into a fragrant breeze, fluttering toward Ye Qiu.
"Big Sister Yan Yan! Long time no see—I missed you so much!"
Ye Qiu opened his arms and rushed forward to meet her.
This girl was none other than Dugu Yan, Dugu Bo's granddaughter and Ye Qiu's fiancée.
At the same time, the Blue Silver Emperor tied around Ye Qiu's waist loosened.
The light that had been shining on Ah Yin faded.
Her vision was severed, and her world plunged into darkness once again. Ah Yin was stunned for a moment, then bit her lip, curling into a corner with frustration. She hated the darkness.
Outside.
With a muffled sound, the two embraced tightly.
Ye Qiu skillfully wrapped his arms around that slender waist. Its softness was something words couldn't describe. Dugu Yan also held Ye Qiu tightly, as if she wanted to fuse him into her body.
Their cheeks rubbed together, breathing in each other's scent.
Unnoticed, a glimmer of light flashed across Dugu Yan's body. Her two smooth legs transformed into a serpent's tail, delicate and icy-cold, wrapping around Ye Qiu's waist.
She cupped Ye Qiu's face and gazed at him with a mixture of affection and grievance.
"Little Brother Qiu~ Did you really miss me that much? Then why were you gone for so long?"
"Of course I missed you!"
Ye Qiu held her waist and straightened his back, his face filled with seriousness.
Sensing the heat coming from him, Dugu Yan's snake tail tightened around his waist. Her body trembled slightly, and a blush bloomed on her cheeks.
She didn't dislike Ye Qiu's passionate response—in fact, she enjoyed it. Her smile deepened as her fingers traced across his handsome face.
"Little Brother Qiu~ So eager? You really did miss me a lot, huh?"
Though the snake tail coiled around his waist was soft and cool, and quite fun to stroke, after being tightly wrapped for too long, Ye Qiu couldn't help but flush red, his voice low and slightly hoarse.
"Uhh, Sister Yanyan... you're squeezing too tightly... I can barely breathe."
Dugu Yan blushed faintly and giggled.
She didn't respond—instead, she gently cupped Ye Qiu's cheeks, parted her rosy lips, and pressed them against his.
Her long eyelashes fluttered, and her eyes shimmered with emerald waves.
Ye Qiu slightly tilted his head back, his Adam's apple bobbing as his burning hands gently slid along the snake tail, savoring the moment with this beautiful serpent girl he hadn't seen for over half a year.
Swoosh!
Dugu Bo suddenly appeared not far away.
Seeing the scene before him, he instantly shivered, hurriedly raising his wide sleeve to block his view—even the Nine-Segment Jade Snake spitting its tongue on his shoulder wasn't spared.
The world is getting more corrupt... such public behavior is truly indecent.
Dugu Yan's pearly teeth slightly parted, her heartbeat accelerating.
Her slick snake tail—manifested due to her martial spirit—wrapped around him even tighter.
Ye Qiu, who was fully cooperating, began to find it hard to breathe. If this keeps up, I might pass out before I even get to enjoy her! He reached toward his waist, grasped firmly, and kneaded softly.
"Ahhn~!"
Dugu Yan's body shuddered. Her mouth involuntarily applied pressure, drawing a trace of blood. She raised her blushing, luscious face, lips parting from his. Seeing the blood on Ye Qiu's lips, she rolled her eyes at him with a mix of annoyance and concern. Her charming voice carried a touch of playful scolding.
"Little Qiu, why did you suddenly get so naughty?"
"Huff..."
Ye Qiu didn't even care about the pain on his lips. He gasped deeply, his hot breath brushing across Dugu Yan's face like spring returning to the land, blooming a smile on her lips. After catching his breath, Ye Qiu said, "Sister Yanyan, I didn't mean to—it was just too tight, I couldn't take it anymore."
As he spoke, Ye Qiu's hands finally behaved, resting back on Dugu Yan's slender waist.
"Pffft, haha~"
Dugu Yan laughed sweetly, softly kissing away the blood from Ye Qiu's lips. Hugging his neck, her beautiful face turned bashful. "Who told you to tease me out of nowhere, my dear fiancé, my little Qiu~"
Dugu Yan unwrapped her snake tail, transforming it back into human legs. She stood close beside Ye Qiu, leaning into his embrace.
Although she was a few years older than Ye Qiu, her body was very well-developed. With their similar heights, she only needed to tug down a bit while hugging Ye Qiu's neck, which pressed her ample figure tightly against him—offering an overwhelming wave of temptation.
"Ugh..."
Ye Qiu's vision darkened, surrounded by fragrance and softness. It left him nearly breathless. After some effort, he managed to break free, leaving Dugu Yan flushed and with a racing heart from his struggle.
"Ahem... Sister Yanyan, next time you call me, can you skip the word 'little brother'?" Ye Qiu coughed twice and corrected her awkwardly.
"Anything you say, my dear husband~"
Dugu Yan smiled playfully, wrapping her arms gently around Ye Qiu as she leaned against his chest, her light green eyes narrowed in contentment.
At that moment—
Dugu Bo finally entered her line of sight.
The previously gentle and affectionate Dugu Yan turned cold upon seeing him, with even a hint of irritation in her gaze.
"A-haha... Yanyan, why are you looking at Grandpa like that?" Dugu Bo felt something was wrong and forced a couple of dry laughs, feigning confusion.
Dugu Yan lifted her head and snorted coldly. "Hmph! Don't think I didn't hear you earlier! If you dare bully Xiao Qiu again, I won't talk to you for a whole month, and I'll pluck every last hair from your beard!"
With Dugu Yan in his arms, Ye Qiu couldn't resist raising an eyebrow smugly at Dugu Bo.
That's what you get for not recognizing a good person and trying to throw me away. Now watch as my wife puts you in your place!
"..."
Dugu Bo stared at Ye Qiu's smug, winking face, gritting his teeth, trying to maintain a smile. "Don't worry, Yanyan, how could Grandpa possibly bully him? We were just messing around earlier, right, you rascal?"
Receiving Dugu Bo's SOS, Ye Qiu grinned and gave Dugu Yan's soft behind a pat, laughing, "Yanyan, Senior Dugu is right—we really were just fooling around earlier."
Dugu Yan's face turned red, and she rolled her eyes at Ye Qiu. She didn't dislike the touch, though—after all, this little man of hers had already explored quite a lot of her.
She gently twisted her body in his warm embrace, rubbing against him. The soft tingles spreading through her made Dugu Yan feel a little dazed.
Seeing the cold expression on his granddaughter finally melt, Dugu Bo breathed a sigh of relief—for the sake of his beard. "Alright, Yanyan, stop with the flirting. You'll have plenty of time to be clingy tonight. It's getting late, and Grandpa hasn't even eaten yet. Let's have dinner first."
"Hmph!"
Dugu Yan huffed coldly at Dugu Bo, ignored him, and pulled Ye Qiu toward the wooden houses, speaking in the gentlest tone.
"Xiao Qiu, you must be starving after traveling so long. I've already prepared food—let's eat while it's hot."
"Mhm, thank you, Sister Yanyan."
"I'm your future wife. No need to thank me."
"..."
Watching the young couple walk off, Dugu Bo's face darkened, his mouth twitching. Why does it suddenly feel like I'm the extra one here...
"Grandpa! Are you eating or not? The food's getting cold!"
Dugu Yan's impatient voice rang out.
"Eating! I'm coming right away!"
Dugu Bo's grumpy expression immediately turned cheerful, and he scurried after them like a happy old man.
My precious granddaughter still cares about me after all...
---
At the dinner table—
The young couple sat side by side. Dugu Yan was even fixing Ye Qiu's wind-messed hair.
"Sister Yanyan, when did you start growing your hair out?"
Ye Qiu studied Dugu Yan closely, realizing she looked even more beautiful than before.
"You said you liked long hair, didn't you?" Dugu Yan paused, rolled her eyes at him, and said with a slight pout, "Why? Don't like it?"
"Of course not! I like you no matter how you look, Sister Yanyan." Ye Qiu let Dugu Yan rest her head on his shoulder, gently sniffing her violet hair—it was fragrant and delightful.
"You sweet-talker."
Though she said that, Dugu Yan's smile was clearly genuine.
Just then, Dugu Bo sat down at the table.
He had a strange expression on his face. Why do I feel full even before eating anything...?
"Yanyan, shall we start eating?" Dugu Bo rubbed his hands together and asked.
"Pfft!"
Dugu Yan couldn't hold back her laughter, covering her red lips. She replied softly, "Grandpa, let's eat. Thank you for going to bring Xiao Qiu back today."
She lifted the cover on the dishes and first picked out a large chicken drumstick for Dugu Bo, placing it in his bowl.
"Haha, it's no trouble at all. As long as my precious granddaughter is happy!"
Dugu Bo's appetite surged at the sight of the drumstick. But as he continued eating, his smile slowly faded...
Watching Ye Qiu's bowl continuously being refilled with all kinds of dishes, the drumstick in his mouth suddenly lost its flavor—and he nearly crushed the bone between his teeth.
"Xiao Qiu, you're still growing, have some more soup. Let me open this clam for you. And eat more abalone too."
"And this... and this one too…"
Dugu Yan hardly ate anything herself; she was too busy feeding Ye Qiu.
That entire dinner…
Ended amid her fiery enthusiasm for spoon-feeding.
---
Later that night.
The Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well glowed with a hazy light, more beautiful and magnificent than during the day.
The three sat at the table, sipping tea and chatting casually.
Ye Qiu had already taken out the Blue Silver Emperor bonsai and placed it on the table.
Dugu Yan leaned lazily against Ye Qiu's shoulder, her face serene and relaxed.
"..."
Ye Qiu began to calmly explain his plan to absorb a ten-thousand-year fourth spirit ring.
Dugu Bo's eyes widened in shock, momentarily losing his composure.
"What did you say?!"
Dugu Yan also straightened up.
She grabbed Ye Qiu's arm, her expression full of concern and anxiety.
"You brat just said you plan to absorb a ten-thousand-year fourth ring? Are you crazy?!"
Dugu Bo stared at Ye Qiu in disbelief. From his experience, absorbing a ten-thousand-year fourth spirit ring was pure suicide!
He absolutely didn't want his granddaughter to become a widow.
"No way!"
"I do not approve!"
Dugu Bo slammed his teacup on the table, his face full of stubbornness.
Dugu Yan clung nervously to Ye Qiu's arm.
Her eyes seemed to plead.
"I disagree too, Xiao Qiu, this is just way too dangerous."
Ye Qiu let go of the Blue Silver Emperor bonsai in his hand.
He gently held Dugu Yan's soft palm and lightly tickled her warm hand, explaining:
"Senior Dugu, Sister Yan, even if you don't trust me, surely you trust the power of the immortal herbs, right?"
"Immortal herbs?!"
Dugu Bo paused, momentarily stunned.
"That's right. You already know the effects of the immortal herbs I've taken. When it comes to absorbing a ten-thousand-year spirit ring, aside from physical strength, what matters most is whether your spiritual power can withstand the soul shock from the spirit ring…"
Ye Qiu smiled confidently as he explained his strengths in detail.
He wasn't some reckless fool. Without Tang San as an example, he wouldn't have dared. But now, all his attributes undoubtedly far surpassed Tang San at the same stage — there was no reason he couldn't do it!
"If you're still not convinced, senior, we can conduct some tests. I believe… my stats have already reached the standard of a Spirit King!"
"..."
Hearing this, Dugu Bo fell silent.
Although he had never seen anyone absorb a ten-thousand-year fourth ring before, Ye Qiu's reasoning was solid — the miraculous power of the immortal herbs was something he had personally witnessed.
If what Ye Qiu said was true, then his chances of success were indeed quite high!
"Grandpa!"
Seeing Dugu Bo hesitate, Dugu Yan's face turned anxious.
"No way!"
"I still don't agree — it's too dangerous!"
Dugu Yan slammed her hands on the table and stood up, her green eyes shimmering with moisture.
Seeing his granddaughter's reaction, Dugu Bo fell silent again. He couldn't make this decision for her.
"Sister Yan, trust me."
Ye Qiu held Dugu Yan's soft hand and gently pulled her into his arms. Staring into her misty eyes, he whispered:
"Did you forget? I made it through the Ice and Fire Body Tempering last time. Absorbing a ten-thousand-year spirit ring is nothing compared to that."
Seeing that Dugu Yan still wanted to resist, Ye Qiu hugged her tightly and leaned in to bite her soft red lips. His hands moved skillfully to help her "activate circulation and relieve congestion," accelerating her growth.
Dugu Bo's eyelid twitched. He averted his gaze — out of sight, out of mind.
After a long moment—
Dugu Yan lay weakly in Ye Qiu's arms, a trace of dampness still lingering on the corners of her lips. Her green eyes looked slightly dazed. She furrowed her brows and gave Ye Qiu a light push, whispering softly:
"If I had known it was that dangerous last time… I absolutely wouldn't have let you take such a risk…"
"Mhm, I know."
Ye Qiu finally stopped his wandering hands and pulled them out from under her clothes, gently helping Dugu Yan tidy her clothes. He placed a soft kiss on her pale ear lobe and whispered warmly:
"Believe in me. I still plan to marry you one day."
Seeing that Dugu Yan had been calmed down by Ye Qiu—
Dugu Bo took a sip of tea and then spoke with a serious expression.
"Fine. We'll do as you said — start with a test. If you can't pass the test, then forget it! I don't want Yan Yan hating me for the rest of her life."
"Of course! I wouldn't risk my own life as a joke."
Ye Qiu nodded with a smile on his face.
He held Dugu Yan's soft body close and nuzzled her worried, beautiful face.
---
The valley where the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well was located.
In the still of the night, sudden fighting sounds broke the silence.
Bang!
A pitch-black figure was suddenly blasted through the air, slamming hard into a cliff wall.
A human-shaped crater appeared in the rock face.
"Cough cough… Senior, isn't this test a bit too brutal?!"
Coughing echoed as Ye Qiu peeled himself out of the cliffside and dropped to the ground, kneeling on one knee, holding his chest.
Who the hell tests someone's physical strength by just launching a beating?
He strongly suspected Dugu Bo was using this as an excuse for revenge.
The blackness faded from his face, revealing a handsome half-bloodied face and a pair of dark eyes filled with grievance as he looked at Dugu Bo.
"Grandpa, couldn't you go a little easier?"
Dugu Yan ran over and gently helped Ye Qiu up, eyes full of distress. She softly stroked his chest.
"Yan Yan, Grandpa is doing this for his sake too. The stricter I am now, the safer he'll be later!"
Dugu Bo beamed brightly.
He cracked his wrists, feeling very satisfied as he looked at his human punching bag.
After all, it wasn't every day he got to beat up his future grandson-in-law!
"Even so, did you have to hit him again and again?!"
Dugu Yan furrowed her brow, full of doubt.
"Ah… that… hahaha…"
Dugu Bo froze for a moment, then chuckled awkwardly, avoiding eye contact.
He scratched his head and muttered, "Grandpa just wanted to see where his limits are… so I gradually increased the strength."
"Hmph!"
Dugu Yan snorted coldly, helping Ye Qiu sit on the steps of the veranda.
Ye Qiu leaned against Dugu Yan, half his body resting on her. He gently breathed in her sweet scent, and with his strong recovery abilities, the pain faded rapidly.
Looking up at Dugu Bo, Ye Qiu couldn't help but roll his eyes in resignation.
"Senior Dugu, is the test over now?"
"Yes, yes, it's over. You're tougher than I imagined!"
Dugu Bo wiped off his smile, nodded seriously, and asked:
"So, when do you plan to absorb the spirit ring? As for the spirit beast, I can take care of that."
Dugu Yan still looked at Ye Qiu nervously.
Even though he passed the test, she couldn't help but worry about her man.
Ye Qiu thought for a moment.
"Alright, I'll trouble you then, Senior Dugu. Let's start tomorrow."
"Good. Then get some rest tonight."
Dugu Bo didn't say more.
It was a good thing for young people to be ambitious. He had no reason to stop them — especially when the odds of success were this high. Ye Qiu's spiritual power and physical stats had left a deep impression on him.
With that, Dugu Bo returned to his room.
> Wishing everyone a wonderful life!
Outside the room, only Ye Qiu and one other remained.
Dugu Yan leaned into Ye Qiu's embrace, a rosy blush coloring her beautiful cheeks. Her fair hand lifted, gently caressing her lover's chest. She looked up at Ye Qiu's profile.
Her starry eyes sparkled, and she spoke softly.
> "Xiao Qiu, let's go back to our room too."
> "Mm."
Ye Qiu chuckled lightly.
He lifted Dugu Yan's chin and captured her slightly raised, tender lips with his own. Taking a small taste, he then carried her horizontally in his arms, heading to her boudoir.
Dugu Yan wrapped her arms around Ye Qiu's neck. The evening breeze seemed intoxicating. She buried her face in the crook of his neck, gently nibbling, while a trace of grievance flickered in her eyes.
Tonight,
she would finally not have to sleep alone.
That bad guy...
he made her grow used to his scent and warmth, only to leave her alone to accompany another woman.
---
In the room, on the bed—
Ye Qiu and Dugu Yan, already washed and stripped of their outer garments, lay snuggled together under the covers. Pressed closely together, Dugu Yan felt her body heating up. She looked down at Ye Qiu, her face red with embarrassment.
Ye Qiu, like an overgrown child, had his head buried in Dugu Yan's chest, enjoying her soft warmth.
Dugu Yan hugged his head closer, gently stroking his hair as she whispered:
> "Xiao Qiu, you must succeed tomorrow."
Even though he had already passed the tests, Dugu Yan couldn't help but worry.
> "Sister Yanyan, don't worry—how could I bear to leave you?"
Ye Qiu's hands roamed across her smooth waist as he gently inhaled her delicate fragrance. The warmth of his breath tickled Dugu Yan's body through her thin clothing, causing her heart to race uncontrollably.
Then, Ye Qiu suddenly began kissing her passionately.
Dugu Yan trembled, clung tightly to him, and bit her lip.
> "Xiao Qiu~"
…
The night slowly passed.
In the flower pot, the Blue Silver Emperor swayed alone under the night sky.
In the endless darkness, A Yin could not sense the passage of time—only that it felt far too long.
Curled up in a corner, she began to let her mind wander again.
About Tang Hao.
She didn't want to doubt him...
But Ye Qiu's reasonable and well-grounded words had left her speechless and unable to refute them.
When she was pregnant…
Why didn't Tang Hao bring her back to the Blue Silver Forest?
When Tang San was still so little…
Why didn't Tang Hao listen to her and properly take care of their child?
Why was Tang Hao so cold and distant to his own son, giving birth but not raising him?
Why did Tang Hao ignore all the abnormalities in Tang San?
Loneliness causes weeds to grow in one's mind.
Right now, A Yin felt like there was no one she could trust.
She had a steadfast resolve to kill Tang San…
She had doubts about Tang Hao's actions…
At this point, the only person she felt she could rely on and completely trust—
Was that troublesome rascal Ye Qiu, with his head full of nonsense.
At the very least…
She could tell what Ye Qiu was thinking.
---
Sunrise. A surge of violet qi filled the horizon.
Ye Qiu opened his eyes and turned over, feeling soft, warm skin beneath him. A tender arm wrapped around his waist. Turning his head, he saw Dugu Yan's delicate face resting lazily against him.
Under the fallen blanket, large portions of her snowy skin were exposed.
Ye Qiu stirred slightly with excitement.
Dugu Yan let out a soft moan and slowly opened her eyes. Her beautiful face was tinged with red, and her watery eyes shimmered like a clear spring, transparent and captivating.
> "Early in the morning, and you're poking me again."
> "That's perfectly normal~"
Ye Qiu gently wrapped his arms around her bare waist—it was unbelievably smooth.
Dugu Yan frowned slightly and pushed against his chest. Her long, smooth legs shifted restlessly against him. Twisting her body a little to avoid his "spear," she pouted softly:
> "Hmph! You're definitely thinking impure thoughts!"
> "Sister Yanyan, I wasn't thinking anything bad."
Ye Qiu caressed her smooth back, warm and porcelain-like, as he inhaled the fragrance of her hair.
> "Heaven above, truly—I wasn't thinking anything inappropriate. I just woke up."
> "I don't believe you. You were obviously thinking of me."
Dugu Yan pouted, acting like a spoiled girl. She reached out her fair arms, grabbed Ye Qiu's shoulder, propped herself up a bit, and lazily nestled back into his firm chest.
His warmth made her feel safe. The strong heartbeat made her feel intoxicated. She didn't want to let go.
Ye Qiu gently patted her soft rear, nodding repeatedly:
> "Yes, yes—I'm always thinking of Sister Yanyan."
> "You little rascal. Always such a smooth-talker…"
Dugu Yan wrapped her arms around Ye Qiu's neck, smiling as she tilted her pretty face up and gave him a soft kiss on the corner of his lips.
Ye Qiu responded for a moment.
Then he reached out to pull the blanket over her and slipped out of bed.
> "Sister Yanyan, rest a bit more. I'll go train first."
> "Mhm."
Dugu Yan nodded gently, gazing affectionately at Ye Qiu as he got dressed and walked out. Once he left, she buried her little head into the blankets.
Inside, his scent and warmth still lingered—and she liked it.
---
Outside.
Ye Qiu looked around at the towering rock walls.
He picked a suitable spot. His body shimmered with black energy—transforming into Venom.
The cliffs were steep, but for Ye Qiu, who could teleport, they were just a bit tricky to navigate.
Boom! Boom!
The sound of fists striking rock echoed. Dugu Bo opened a window and stuck out his head.
> "That brat—what the hell is he doing making a racket so early in the morning?"
Under Dugu Bo's gaze, Ye Qiu's figure rose higher and higher amidst swirling mist.
Before long…
Using both fists and teleportation, Ye Qiu reached the area that looked like a volcanic crater.
He didn't waste time and immediately sat down, facing the east.
He began cultivating the Purple Demon Eye.
Strands of violet qi drifted into Ye Qiu's eyes. With the help of Xuan Tian Technique, he began refining it.
The purple qi only lasted a short time.
In less than fifteen minutes, Ye Qiu stood up, stretched, and rolled his shoulders. He rubbed his eyes—his black pupils had turned violet.
His vision didn't seem much different from before.
> "Cultivating in the Mustard Seed Realm is truly difficult."
> "But a little each day will add up. Doesn't take that much time anyway."
He looked out into the distance.
Gazing at the rising sun on the horizon, Ye Qiu felt a little uplifted.
He suddenly thought of that silly, soft rabbit.
He wondered…
If she could sleep well alone in her bed.
Smiling faintly, Ye Qiu adjusted his mood, jumped off the cliff, enjoying the wind rushing past his cheeks. With Venom's power protecting him, his figure flickered as he descended rapidly, using protruding rocks to slow his descent.
Boom!
A loud bang echoed from the ground.
Ye Qiu's figure flashed out from the smoke, teleporting away from the crater he'd just created.
At this time, Dugu Bo and his granddaughter were already seated at the dining table.
The loud noise caused Dugu Bo, who was eating, to flinch. A bit of soup splashed onto his face. With a trace of irritation, he glared at Ye Qiu.
> "Brat, why the hell were you cultivating so high up?"
> "Hehe… the air's better up there."
Ye Qiu scratched his head and walked over to the dining table.
Just as she was playing with the Blue Silver Empress, Dugu Yan spotted Ye Qiu and hurried over to him.
"小秋～ Hurry and come eat, I kept your food warm."
Dugu Yan hugged Ye Qiu's arm with a beaming smile.
Over half a year of separation hadn't diminished her feelings for Ye Qiu. If anything, their relationship had only grown stronger. As the saying goes—a short separation rekindles the passion like a new marriage.
Ye Qiu smiled, leaned his head against her gently, and said:
"Mm, Sister Yanyan is the best."
"Of course I am~"
Dugu Yan grinned sweetly and even took a moment to glare at Dugu Bo for his earlier harsh tone.
Dugu Bo's face darkened. His bitterness was something no outsider could understand.
Forget this meal!
He had eaten enough anyway, and staying here would only be an eyesore. He stood up and asked sternly:
"Kid, what age of soul beast are you aiming to absorb?"
Ye Qiu sat down beside Dugu Yan, leaning on her thoughtfully for a moment.
"Senior, how about 15,000 years?"
"Fifteen thousand? Isn't that too risky?" Dugu Bo frowned.
Although Ye Qiu's physique far surpassed the average Soul King, the general absorption limit for a Soul King was 12,000 years. Even Soul Emperors usually only went up to 20,000.
"Don't worry, Senior. I'm confident."
Ye Qiu's face was solemn. This was a decision he had made after careful consideration. With the boost from the Strangling Heaven Chrysanthemum, he didn't want to waste the opportunity.
Seeing that even Dugu Yan had no objections, Dugu Bo stopped pressing the issue.
"Fine, I'll go catch one for you then."
"Thank you, Senior."
With Ye Qiu's gratitude echoing behind him, Dugu Bo turned and left.
"小秋, you better be careful…"
Dugu Yan handed Ye Qiu a bowl. Even though he had done so much for her the night before, her concern didn't lessen.
Ye Qiu said nothing, only gave her a confident smile and nodded solemnly.
---
After the meal.
Dugu Yan went to clean up the dishes while Ye Qiu picked up A Yin.
In the darkness, a beam of light shone down, enveloping A Yin in a faint warmth.
Along with it came Ye Qiu's clear voice.
"A Yin, I'm going to plant you next to the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well. Even without my help, you'll be able to grow rapidly."
"…Mm, I understand."
A Yin paused, dumbly nodded her head, then browsed through Ye Qiu's recent memories. Her face flushed, her brows furrowed slightly, and a hint of jealousy appeared in her heart. At the same time, she couldn't help but worry for him.
But even that woman, Dugu Yan, couldn't stop Ye Qiu—how could she?
Outside, Ye Qiu gently pinched one of A Yin's leaves. Sensing her concern for him, he couldn't help but smile.
Looks like even a blade of grass can be raised into a loyal companion.
Without another thought, his three soul rings spun around him. Ye Qiu transformed into a black torrent that surged over A Yin's entire body.
Suddenly, the space around her became brilliantly green.
"I didn't think you'd actually worry about me…"
Ye Qiu's voice rang softly in her ears, and she felt a tightness around her waist.
A Yin was now being held in his arms.
"Ye Qiu! Let go of me! Let go—!"
Realizing what was happening, A Yin's snow-white neck flushed red. Ye Qiu's breath enveloped her. Her voluptuous and beautiful body instinctively twisted.
Ye Qiu felt very pleased but didn't push things too far. He gently let go of her.
A Yin instantly darted away, putting distance between them.
Ye Qiu shrugged helplessly.
"Why are you so tense? I wasn't going to force you to do anything…"
"Hmph! You're always thinking lewd thoughts!"
A Yin's face was scarlet, and she didn't dare meet Ye Qiu's eyes.
Ye Qiu smirked and snapped his fingers, making a green sofa appear in the space. Sitting down leisurely, he said:
"A Yin, do you want to help me?"
A Yin's cheeks blushed even deeper. She bit her lip and lowered her gaze.
Even if she denied it, Ye Qiu could see through her thoughts clearly.
Seeing Ye Qiu lounging on the sofa, legs crossed, she huffed: "So what if I do?"
But then her expression turned a bit melancholic, and she lowered her eyes.
"I'm just a blade of grass… I can't do anything."
"Who said you can't help?"
Ye Qiu's lips curled into a mischievous smile. Looking at A Yin's soft, red lips, an idea formed in his mind.
A Yin looked at him in confusion.
When she caught his impure thoughts, her body trembled slightly, and her face flushed crimson.
"Ye Qiu! Stop thinking such things!"
"How could something like that help you?!"
A Yin took two steps back, pressing her lips together with a wary look.
Ye Qiu wasn't surprised—he was used to A Yin reading his thoughts.
But he had to make her understand.
Even if she screamed "no," she couldn't stop his advancing steps.
Ye Qiu stood up and walked toward her.
With an air of seriousness, he said:
"Of course it helps. A kiss is a blessing—it brings good luck. Especially…"
"…when it's from a beautiful woman."
A Yin furrowed her brows, her eyes sharp.
She scolded, "Utter nonsense! I've never heard of anything like that. Even if it were true, you could just go to that girl outside—she's your fiancée!"
"The more blessings I collect, the higher the success rate. I won't leave Sister Yanyan out either."
Ye Qiu chuckled and continued moving toward her.
"You pervert—!"
"Stop! Don't come any closer!"
A Yin panicked, backing away, trying to stop Ye Qiu.
"No—please!"
But Ye Qiu didn't listen.
He cornered A Yin at the edge of the space, face-to-face, hearts aligned, pressed tightly together.
"Please… don't…"
A Yin trembled, turning her head to the side, not daring to look at him, not daring to move.
She was almost breathless from being pressed so closely.
She feared that Ye Qiu might lose control and "punish" her on the spot while she was still so weak.
Ye Qiu had her pinned in the corner, quietly admiring the beautiful, blushing, panicked woman before him. His smile wouldn't fade.
He was really starting to enjoy watching proper women act all shy.
Every emotion in A Yin's heart—shyness, anger, and maybe even… excitement?—Ye Qiu could sense it all.
Huh?
Ye Qiu raised an eyebrow.
Excitement?
What kind of strange reaction was that?
Was it too stimulating?
"Ye Qiu, let go of me… I…"
A Yin struggled to resist the hot aura wrapping around her, on the verge of tears as she pleaded.
But Ye Qiu cut her off mid-sentence.
Gazing at her with a wistful look, he softly said:
"A Yin… what if I fail?"
Those words stunned her.
She looked back at him, dazed, her cheeks as red as flowers. Her eyes darted away.
A Yin knew full well—
If Ye Qiu failed to absorb a ten-thousand-year soul ring… he would die!