51-55

Chapter 51

Zhou Qingxue reached out and grabbed Wei Zhao's wrist. This person was a bit annoying, but blocking the heavenly tribulation for someone else was no small matter. She didn't want Da Bingkuai to get hurt.

In the time it took to speak, the dark clouds over Song Zixia's head pressed lower, and a bolt of heavenly tribulation had already come down. Fortunately, the talismans Zhao Xunkun gave were quite reliable, blocking the first wave of heavenly tribulation for Song Zixia.

Yet, before everyone could catch their breath, the second heavenly tribulation struck. Song Weizhi's hand, holding the sword, filled with spiritual power, rushed to meet the heavenly tribulation. Due to her continually advancing cultivation, this heavenly tribulation only cost her some spiritual power. Song Weizhi forcefully split the heavenly tribulation open in mid-air, without a trace of it touching Song Zixia.

Just as the third heavenly tribulation was about to strike, Song Weizhi gently placed her palm on Song Zixia's waist and took a step back. Song Zixia felt a warmth on her body, as if the spiritual power she had lost had returned.

Song Zixia filled her right hand that held the sword with spiritual power and faced the third heavenly tribulation coming from above. Just as a cracking sound reverberated, breaking the air beside her, Song Zixia remained unscathed, except for the large crater forcefully created on the ground beside her.

After the three heavenly tribulations, the dark clouds in the sky dissipated, as if nothing had happened, leaving only the deep pit at Song Zixia's feet as evidence that someone had indeed passed through the heavenly tribulation.

After the last heavenly tribulation, Song Zixia appeared unscathed, while Song Weizhi's complexion appeared ashen. Song Zixia quickly ran to her side.

She had just sensed that something was amiss. She clearly had only 30% of her power left. How could she have effortlessly withstood the third heavenly tribulation? It must be related to the hand her senior sister had placed on her back. Even now, she felt a warm sensation in her dantian.

Song Zixia lightly tugged at Song Weizhi's sleeve and asked in a subdued voice, "Senior sister, what's going on? How could I have taken it so easily?"

Song Weizhi set up a barrier around them before softly speaking, "I placed the small golden figure in your dantian, investigate with your spiritual power and see what it's doing."

Song Zixia was stunned. Her senior sister had placed her small golden figure in her body? That was the most important thing for a cultivator. Seeing Song Weizhi's pale complexion, it dawned on her that her senior sister had used her spiritual power just now. This meant her senior sister had helped her block two waves of heavenly tribulation.

Anxiously, she said, "Senior sister, you should take it back. How can you leave such an important thing with me? You've been hurt for my sake again."

Seeing the redness in the girl's eyes, Song Weizhi hurriedly embraced her, soothing her, "Don't worry, I'm fine. I'll just take some spirit-recovering medicine later, and for now, let's keep the small golden figure with you. It's a crowded place, and I don't want others to know my secrets."

"Senior sister, are you really okay?"

"Rest assured, I'm fine. Besides, this time you can also protect me. I'll just hide behind you and be lazy." Song Weizhi giggled, then removed the barrier around them and went to sit and rest in an empty area.

However, Wei Zhao couldn't wait and immediately ran over from Zhou Qingxue's side to see if Song Weizhi was hurt.

Zhou Qingxue watched Wei Zhao rush to Song Weizhi's side and muttered under her breath in irritation, "What's the rush in running over there? Your master blocked the heavenly tribulation for another woman. Can't you see it? Yet you still hurried over there."

Zhou Chengwen observed his sister grumbling to herself and felt uncomfortable. He always felt like his sister was not quite right about that Wei Zhao!

After resting for a few hours, Song Weizhi's group set out again, joined by Zhou Qingxue's group. Zhou Chengwen intended to leave with his sister first, but Zhou Qingxue insisted on taking some time to recuperate, so they went with Song Weizhi's group deeper into the secret realm.

Compared to the initial secret realm, this time journeying into the depths of the realm was less dangerous. Along the way, some demonic beasts appeared, but the disciples quickly dispatched them. Song Weizhi even stayed directly behind her little sister, allowing her to accumulate points, as her little sister's strength was enough to deal with the demonic beasts, backed by the small golden figure.

Wei Zhao also hovered by Song Weizhi's side, allowing Song Weizhi to have an easy time. By the evening, everyone returned to the square where they had entered the secret realm, and the top thirty participants of this secret realm had already emerged on the spirit stones in the square.

Song Weizhi's name stood out at the first position, with Song Zixia, Wei Zhao, and Zhao Xunkun following. Song Weizhi's group had dominated the top spots.

At this moment, Qi Yingzhe arrived with some of his disciples. He stood on a platform and softly announced, "The top thirty participants of the secret realm have been decided. I will have the managing disciples take everyone to the living quarters for inner disciples. And for those who didn't make it, don't be disheartened. Cultivation is a long path, and I will be here to welcome you all in three years."

Though Qi Yingzhe's voice was soft, everyone on the square could hear him clearly. He then instructed his disciples to guide the top thirty participants to their quarters.

Unexpectedly, Qi Yingzhe personally came to lead Song Weizhi's group to their quarters. He approached them politely, "Welcome, everyone. From now on, we are all fellow disciples. If you need anything, feel free to come to me at any time. It's not early now; let me take you to rest."

"Alright, thank you." Song Weizhi responded.

The group followed Qi Yingzhe and flew to the disciples' living quarters.

Song Weizhi initially planned to fly on her flying sword but was stopped by her little sister. "Senior sister, let's ride on my sword together."

Song Weizhi smiled, nodded behind her little sister, and held her waist, obediently watching her little sister control the flying sword.

Upon arriving at their quarters, Qi Yingzhe briefly gave some instructions to the disciples and then left. The group didn't dally; they had been tired from their long time in the secret realm and went to their rooms to rest. Only Song Weizhi went to Song Zixia's room.

As soon as she entered the room, the girl set up a barrier and hurriedly said, "Senior sister, your Nascent Soul is still with me. Please take it back quickly."

Song Weizhi smiled, "No rush. I saw her sleeping quite soundly in your dantian. Let her sleep a bit longer."

"Senior sister, I'm not joking. You've helped me block all the heavenly tribulations this time. Every time it's you helping me. When will I be able to protect you?" The girl's eyes were slightly red.

Song Weizhi hurriedly comforted her, "Aren't we family? It doesn't matter who protects whom. Where's the 'each other' in the equation?"

"Senior sister, please take the Nascent Soul back first."

"Alright, I'll listen to you, little summer," Song Weizhi said. She touched the little one's head and returned her Nascent Soul to her dantian. She urged Song Zixia, "Do it quickly, take the Nascent Soul back."

"Okay, I'll listen to you, senior sister," she said hesitantly, tucking her head into Song Weizhi's shoulder.

Unlike Song Weizhi's situation, Wei Zhao was exhausted and was about to go to sleep when she heard a knock at the door. She thought it was strange because her master and her little Dao companion had already gone to their rooms. Could it be her master coming to find her?

She answered, "Coming, coming," and hastily opened the door, thinking it could be her master.

However, when Wei Zhao opened the door, she saw Zhou Qingxue and felt a headache coming on. She shouldn't have been kind. How could the young lady still come to find her after leaving the secret realm? And how did she know where Wei Zhao was staying?

"It's you?" Wei Zhao muttered, her mouth twitching.

Chapter 51 (Continued)

Zhou Qingxue had come to find Wei Zhao, feeling quite pleased. However, Wei Zhao's expression upon seeing her irked Zhou Qingxue. She exploded, "What's wrong? Can't find the person you want to see? It's clear that Song Weizhi is into Song Zixia. She can even block heavenly tribulations for her. It's not your concern! Why do you keep hovering around her every day?"

"Ugh, she is my master. If not her, then who should I follow? Are you expecting me to follow you, miss?" Wei Zhao found it laughable. What did this miss want?

"Okay, if you want me to follow you, then I'll reluctantly do so," Zhou Qingxue said with a raised eyebrow, smiling.

Wei Zhao scoffed, "You're daydreaming. Stop talking nonsense. Say what you need to, I'll go to sleep if there's nothing else."

"Wait a minute, Da Bingkuai. Here, take this." Zhou Qingxue awkwardly placed a jade earring in Wei Zhao's hand.

Frowning, Wei Zhao asked, "What's this supposed to mean? And why is there only one?"

Snapping angrily, Zhou Qingxue said, "This is a spirit device for transmitting sound. Whenever and wherever you talk to me with it on, I can hear you. Consider it a reward from me." However, the color on her cheeks hinted at her shyness.

"Why do I need this? I don't want to talk to you," Wei Zhao grumbled.

Her words angered Zhou Qingxue, "I gave it to you, and you're giving me so much backchat! If you don't want it, I'll just stay here. I won't leave."

Wei Zhao managed to let out a smile. So she had no choice but to accept it?

"Fine, fine, give it to me. I want to go to bed," said Wei Zhao, trying to close the door while the room was blocked by the miss.

Wei Zhao was stunned. She had only read too many books, and now she had somehow offended this miss? She won't read again!

Realizing that she couldn't afford to provoke the miss, Wei Zhao had to say, "Sure, help me put it on quickly."

Zhou Qingxue's smile didn't fade. She said in a restrained tone, "Just lower your head a bit; I can't put it on if you don't."

With a resigned look, Wei Zhao lowered her head and waited for the miss to finish so she could be free.

Zhou Qingxue's smile didn't leave her lips as she gently used her spiritual power to create a small hole in Wei Zhao's left earlobe and then gently put the jade earring in place.

After fitting the earring, she nonchalantly said, "Remember, don't take it off. If you have anything to say, just activate the earring with a bit of spiritual power, and I'll hear you."

Wei Zhao nodded, "I understand. I understand. Goodbye, then."

Zhou Qingxue glanced at the earring on Wei Zhao's left ear, exactly like the one on her right ear, and left with a slightly flushed face. She knew it—the Da Bingkuai was completely at her mercy!

As soon as Zhou Qingxue left, Wei Zhao locked the door and touched the earring on her left ear. It felt strange, an uneasy sensation, but after hesitating for a while, she didn't take it off. If she did, she knew that she would face the wrath of the miss and decided it was better to keep wearing it.

Chapter 52

After Zhou Qingxue sent the earring to Wei Zhao, she was in a very good mood. Even when she returned to her mother, Yao Xintong, she didn't lose the smile on her face.

While she was her mother, as a cultivator, Yao Xintong never worried about the passing of time. She looked extremely young and could easily be mistaken for Zhou Qingxue's sister.

Seeing her two children return safely, Yao Xintong's joy was evident. "Qingxue, what makes you so happy? Tell me about it."

"Oh, it's nothing special, just met an annoying girl, but she's quite interesting." Zhou Qingxue leaned on Yao Xintong's arm, thinking about the defeated expression of Wei Zhao and smiled. "Chengwen, you also went to the secret realm, tell us about it." Yao Xintong said, smiling at Zhou Chengwen.

Zhou Qingxue immediately interrupted, "Brother, you better not say anything, or I won't talk to you."

"Okay, okay, I won't say anything, alright?" Zhou Chengwen was completely helpless in the face of his sister.

"Oh, by the way, Qingxue, how come you are only wearing one earring today?" Zhou Chengwen looked puzzled at his sister's empty left ear.

Zhou Qingxue's face turned slightly unnatural, a hint of blush appeared on her earlobe. "I don't know, maybe it was taken by a passing cat or dog. Don't worry about it, brother."

"Alright, I'm sorry, I shouldn't have asked." Zhou Chengwen conceded.

Yao Xintong looked at her two playful children, her eyes filled with joy. Only when she was with her two children could Yao Xintong genuinely smile from the bottom of her heart.

The next morning, Song Weizhi looked at the girl sleeping in her arms and hesitated to wake her up. She gently rubbed the girl's face, but the girl, still half-asleep, grunted and nuzzled her shoulder without opening her eyes.

Song Weizhi then kissed the girl's forehead, cheeks, and lastly on the corner of her lips. Only then did the girl finally open her eyes under Song Weizhi's teasing.

Still a little groggy after waking up, the girl complained in Song Weizhi's arms, "Sister, why?"

Song Weizhi gently smiled and smoothed the girl's back. "Wake up Xiaxiao. We have morning lessons today. Let's change into our clothes and go together."

The girl softly responded, "Okay, sister, you're naughty, bullying me so early."

Song Weizhi ruffled the girl's head and said, "Does Xiaxiao not like it?"

Through the thin inner garment, the girl lightly bit Song Weizhi's shoulder, and Song Weizhi chuckled and let the girl bite her. Eventually, she gently patted her before the girl let go.

Song Weizhi then comforted the girl for a while before they got up, dressed in their pale blue inner disciple robes, and left.

Arriving at Wei Zhao's door, Song Weizhi reminded him to change into his disciple robes, and Wei Zhao emerged shortly after.

Natural and composed, Wei Zhao, who was usually aloof and often dressed in black, caught everyone's eye in his pale blue disciple robes. He also wore an emerald earring on his left ear, adding to his magnetic charm.

Song Weizhi looked at Wei Zhao in confusion and asked, "Wei Zhao, that earring looks nice. I've never seen you wear it before."

"I just got it yesterday. I've never worn it before. Zhou Qingxue brought it to me yesterday, and when I didn't accept it, she forced me to wear it." Wei Zhao awkwardly touched the earring on his left ear.

Song Weizhi exchanged glances with Xiao Gu Niang and couldn't help but burst into laughter.

Confused, Wei Zhao asked, "What's with the two of you?"

Song Weizhi wrapped her arm around Xiao Gu Niang's waist, and with a mischievous grin, said, "Nothing, it looks good on you, so wear it well."

When they arrived at the academy, several junior disciples had already gathered. The trio, attractive and formidable in their cultivation, drew everyone's attention. Liu Zhiyun and Meng Xing were among them. Before Song Weizhi and the others arrived, many male disciples had been around Meng Xing. When Song Weizhi's group arrived, the male disciples shifted their attention towards them.

"Ha, what's the big deal about them? They're just good-looking. Cousin, don't pay attention to them. Remember how they treated us at the inn?" Meng Xing grumbled.

Liu Zhiyun's expression darkened, he gave Meng Xing a stern look, "Enough, let's find a place to sit."

Song Weizhi and Xiao Gu Niang sat together. Behind them were Wei Zhao and Zhao Xuankun. Shortly afterward, the three elder instructors arrived. As Song Weizhi and her friends were new, the class was about the history of the Cold Mountain Sword Sect. Bored, Song Weizhi started meditating, as she hadn't come to the sect just to find a mentor.

However, the instructors were at the Unity Realm level, two realms higher than Song Weizhi, and noticed her meditating. After confirming her cultivation level, one of the elders approached her and knocked on the wooden table. "What's your name? You just joined, and you're meditating already. Go back to meditate. Don't meditate during a class. Who gave you permission?"

It was then that Song Weizhi opened her eyes and stood up, "I'm Song Weizhi. Elder, what advice do you have?"

"If you don't want to listen, leave. Don't disrupt the others. If you're conceited just because your cultivation is slightly higher than others, you won't achieve anything in the future," the elder reprimanded Song Weizhi.

Song Weizhi had sensed the elder's cultivation at the Unity Realm and realized that this place wasn't as easy as Linhai City. Even an ordinary elder had a cultivation at the Unity Realm, so she had to be cautious. She respectfully saluted, "I will remember your advice, Elder."

The elder glanced at her, finding her reply sincere. "Take a seat," he said.

After Song Weizhi's instance, no one dared to do anything else during the morning class, and it wasn't until the class was over that the disciples relaxed.

"Cousin, see, not even the Elder approves of her. What future could she have?" Meng Xing's voice was audible to everyone present.

Where there are people, there are cliques, and the Cold Mountain Sword Sect was no exception. Meng Xing had formed her own clique.

"She's just pretty. What's so special about her? Just because she offended someone on her first day, she's nothing special," Wen Ying, who was by Meng Xing's side, said indignantly. She came from a humble background and was trying to climb up the social ladder by being close to Meng Xing, who was Liu Zhiyun's cousin.

"I think our Meng Xing is the best. She is from a prestigious family. Where does Song Weizhi compare to her?" Sun Ke'er added, fearing comparison with Wen Ying.

Meng Xing was pleased to hear this and looked disdainfully at Song Weizhi. However, Song Weizhi didn't even glance at Meng Xing, and they left with Xiao Gu Niang.

"What's there to feel proud about? She was scolded by an Elder on her first day here. Who does Song Weizhi think she is?" Meng Xing exclaimed.

The girl, seeing her mentor being reprimanded, felt a bit down. Song Weizhi saw this and rubbed her head. "It's okay. The Elder is at the Unity Realm level. Here at Cold Mountain Sword Sect, we need to focus on improving our cultivation and not worry about other things."

"All right, I'll listen to my mentor."

"I'll listen to my master, too," Wei Zhao chimed in. This prompted Song Weizhi and Xiao Gu Niang to burst into laughter.

After resting for a while, they began their swordsmanship practice on the martial arts field. This wasn't limited to a certain number of practitioners, be it novices or experienced disciples. Here, they were to learn under the tutelage of the Sect's top disciple, Qi Yingzhe. Many disciples who had already mastered swordsmanship eagerly came to watch.

Soon, the field was filled with many disciples. Qi Yingzhe arrived, landed gracefully in the middle of the disciples, exuding an aura of elegance and nobility.

Addressing the disciples, Qi Yingzhe said, "The Cold Mountain Sword Sect accords the highest honor to the sword. Although the Cold Mountain Sword Technique is the basic swordsmanship of our sect, it encompasses all the sword techniques of our sect. All paths lead to the same destination, and I hope you all comprehend this well."

Qi Yingzhe then wielded his long sword, executing a set of sword moves that didn't seem overly intricate but, under his control, they flowed seamlessly, showcasing formidable power. This quickly caught the attention of the onlookers.

"Meng Xing, look at Senior Brother Qi. He's truly graceful. I'd like to talk to him," Wen Ying whispered to Meng Xing.

Meng Xing glanced at Qi Yingzhe and snorted. In her view, no matter how high one's cultivation level was, it was pointless. Her cousin Liu Zhiyun, who had a good family background, was better. "He's okay, but my cousin is the best. Don't you think so, cousin?" She tugged at Liu Zhiyun's sleeve.

Liu Zhiyun smiled faintly upon hearing Meng Xing's praise. He was still pleased to hear compliments about himself.

Before long, Qi Yingzhe asked, "Any novice disciples wish to come forward and try?"

Several disciples shoved each other, but ultimately none dared to step forward.

Qi Yingzhe's gaze swept over the new disciples but settled on Song Weizhi. "Junior Sister Song is the top scorer in the secret realm. Are you willing to come forward and demonstrate a technique?"

Glancing at Qi Yingzhe, Song Weizhi gracefully ascended the platform on her sword. With a pointed sword tip, she effortlessly executed the same sword technique Qi Yingzhe had just demonstrated, displaying skill equal to his.

"Hey, isn't that the newcomer who ranked first in the secret realm, Song Weizhi? Her talent seems on par with Senior Brother Qi. She's even stronger than the sect leader's direct disciple, Senior Brother Li."

"I agree, and I heard that Song Weizhi has already achieved great perfection in the Golden Core stage. She's achieved this level of cultivation shortly after arriving at our Cold Mountain Sword Sect, while Senior Brother Li spent over a decade in arduous cultivation to reach the same level."

"I think this is just a battle between exceptional disciples. It's unrelated to us ordinary folks."

Chapter 53

The speaker's unintended words may fall on unlistening ears, but Li Qingyuan, apart from Qi Ying Zhe, was the most esteemed disciple at the Cold Mountain Sword Sect. The reason was simple; aside from Qi Ying Zhe, he was one of the most influential disciples, overseeing the daily affairs of the sect. Indeed, being overshadowed by both Qi Ying Zhe and Zhou Ye Ran's children was infuriating. This year's recruitment of new disciples brought in several remarkable talents, which made Li Qingyuan quite uneasy.

"Senior brother, don't pay too much attention to the gossip outside. Those people tend to exaggerate. Where in the world are so many geniuses? In my opinion, as long as our master values you, why does it matter what others do?"

Li Qingyuan frowned, thinking that though it sounded reasonable, what if these disciples surpassed him later on? He could end up as just a steward overseeing mundane affairs in the sect, which wasn't what he desired.

"Are those new disciples behaving themselves?" Li Qingyuan asked with a furrowed brow.

"Everyone else is doing fine. It's just that Song Weizhi got scolded by the third elder during her early morning class on her first day, but she admitted her mistake, and the third elder just gave her a few words," the reply came.

Li Qingyuan nodded, took a sip of the spring water beside him, and said, "After all, they are new, and they need a bit of discipline. In a few days, I'll go meet these so-called geniuses."

"Of course, they can't compare to Senior Brother Li," was the reassurance he received.

After Qi Ying Zhe's class, Song Weizhi and the others were preparing to return to their residence when they saw a figure approaching from a distance. Song Weizhi could make out that it was Zhou Qingxue.

Of course, Wei Zhao also saw her and hurriedly said to Song Weizhi, "Master, you and Miss Song can go back on your own. I have something urgent to attend to, so I should leave." She attempted to run away but was stopped when Song Weizhi grabbed her wrist.

"Hmm, what's the rush? Haven't you seen Miss Zhou coming over? Let's chat with her for a while," Song Weizhi said, looking at Wei Zhao with suppressed laughter. She hadn't expected her stoic bodyguard to be afraid of someone. She was truly delighted by the spectacle.

Wei Zhao was shocked. She had only wanted to avoid Zhou Qingxue, which was why she had planned to escape. How could her master do this?

While the two were talking, Zhou Qingxue had already arrived. She had a smile on her face, but as soon as she saw Song Weizhi grabbing Wei Zhao's wrist, her expression turned cold.

Following Zhou Qingxue's gaze, Song Weizhi promptly released Wei Zhao's wrist and said, "Senior Sister Zhou, is there something you need to discuss?"

"I came to find Wei Zhao," Zhou Qingxue said, directing her gaze from Song Weizhi to Wei Zhao.

Song Weizhi's eyes fell on the earring on Zhou Qingxue's right ear, and then she glanced at her own guard's left ear, revealing a bemused expression. "Well, in that case, Summer and I will head back. Wei Zhao, please accompany Senior Sister Zhou," she said.

Seeing that Song Weizhi and Song Zhixia were quite considerate, Zhou Qingxue immediately wore an approving smile. Wei Zhao, on the other hand, grimaced at being left alone to face Zhou Qingxue without her master.

"What are you laughing about?" Song Zhixia and Song Weizhi had already walked quite far, and the young girl couldn't help but ask.

"Didn't you notice the earring on Zhou Qingxue's right ear? It's the same as Wei Zhao's. It seems she fancies Wei Zhao. I think they make quite a good match," Song Weizhi said, chuckling as she pinched the girl's hand.

Unexpectedly, the young girl suddenly stopped in her tracks, stepped forward, and stepped on Song Weizhi's foot. Song Weizhi was at a loss. What had she done to provoke her?

The young girl then shot a glance at Song Weizhi and said, "Senior Sister, you're quite observant about others. You even notice the earrings they wear?"

Only then did Song Weizhi realize that her little apprentice was feeling jealous. She had turned into a vinegar-soaked little rabbit. Song Weizhi hugged the girl and said, "Alright, I was wrong. From now on, I will only look at my little partner and never cast a glance at anyone else."

The young girl leaned against Song Weizhi, pouting and remaining silent. She didn't say whether she was content or dissatisfied, simply looking around, then quickly kissing Song Weizhi's lips before shyly hiding her face in her chest.

Song Weizhi hugged the girl and planted a light kiss on her head. Sensing that the girl in her arms was feeling unsteady, she smiled and said, "Why are you blushing after claiming your benefit? Besides, in our relationship, you can claim any benefit you like."

As Song Weizhi spoke, the girl's cheeks turned redder. "Senior Sister, don't speak nonsense. If you do, I'll sleep alone in my own room tonight."

Song Weizhi laughed and looked at her little apprentice. The girl was quite clever; she knew what she feared.

"Okay, I was wrong. Summer, you mustn't leave me alone tonight. I can't sleep well without holding you," Song Weizhi said as she tried to add more, but her mouth was covered by her little partner. She had no choice but to indulge her dear partner.

Meanwhile, Wei Zhao bit her lip and asked, "If you have something to say, say it quickly. I, I have something to do soon."

Zhou Qingxue looked at Wei Zhao's attire, feeling that it was somewhat different from the black clothing she wore in the secret realm. But Wei Zhao's face naturally exuded coldness, and whether she wore black or moon-white attire, she always looked exceptionally beautiful.

They were still in the martial arts arena, and disciples passing by would occasionally cast probing glances at the two of them. Zhou Qingxue's gaze fell on Wei Zhao's wrist, which had just been grabbed by Song Weizhi. On an impulse, she grabbed Wei Zhao's wrist and led her to a nearby tree.

Puzzled, Wei Zhao looked at Zhou Qingxue and asked, "What are you doing?"

"You can leave if you want. Why so many unnecessary words?" The voice of Zhou Qingxue was heard.

After some difficulty, the two managed to stand still. Zhou Qingxue pursed her lips, feeling a bit uneasy, and said, "Why didn't you talk to me last night?" She glanced at the earring on the left ear of Wei Zhao and smirked slightly. She hadn't expected the ice queen to be quite obedient, always wearing it.

"What do you want me to talk to you about if nothing's wrong?" Wei Zhao was dumbfounded. Why would she look for Zhou Qingxue if she had nothing to discuss? There was no time to avoid her!

Zhou Qingxue looked at her and said, "Can't I talk to you even if nothing's wrong?"

Wei Zhao thought she had nothing to say to her, so she refrained from speaking her mind. "I'll find time to talk to you if I have it. I have to leave now if there's nothing else."

"Where do you think you're going? Come with me; I have something to show you," Zhou Qingxue said, before pulling Wei Zhao's wrist.

"Where are we going? Why are you in such a hurry?" Wei Zhao was led by Zhou Qingxue, both sporting the same earring, and soon everyone knew about it.

Finally, Zhou Qingxue led Wei Zhao to a courtyard and then into a room.

Wei Zhao looked around and asked, "Where are we? What does Miss want from me?"

Zhou Qingxue flashed a shy smile and said, "This is my room. Do you remember the fruit pastries made from the spirit fruit that you liked in the secret realm? My mother made them, and she made some new ones today, so I wanted you to try them."

Zhou Qingxue's tone was devoid of her usual arrogance, and her cheeks were tinged with a faint blush. Wei Zhao felt that the young lady seemed more pleasing at that moment.

Amid their conversation, Zhou Qingxue took out the spirit fruits from her storage bag. Initially intended for her and her brother, she had taken them all hoping Wei Zhao would have enough.

Wei Zhao was speechless while looking at the table full of spirit fruits. For the first time since she arrived in this world, apart from her master, Zhou Qingxue was the nicest person to her.

She glanced at the smiling Zhou Qingxue and said, "Thank you. I can't eat all of this myself. Let's eat together."

Zhou Qingxue raised an eyebrow and said, "We ate together last time, didn't we? Do you want me to watch you eat secretly?"

Wei Zhao smiled and looked at Zhou Qingxue without retorting, then picked up a piece of peach blossom pastry. Although she wasn't particularly fond of eating, she found the aroma of the pastry tempting.

"It's delicious. Please thank your mother for me. I really like it," Wei Zhao said.

Hearing this, Zhou Qingxue's cheeks blushed slightly and she scolded herself internally. She chastised herself for not being fond of this Ice Queen.

As the room's tranquillity dashed, the sound of voices outside disrupted it. "Qingxue, where are the desserts mother made? I just went to see mother, and she said they were in your room," Zhou Chengwen's booming voice was heard. The two inside the room heard him, and Zhou Qingxue inwardly cursed herself. She wanted to block the door but Zhou Chengwen just gave it a symbolic knock, then pushed the door open to find Wei Zhao eating the desserts in his sister's room.

Zhou Chengwen's eyes widened in disbelief. "No, why are you in my sister's room?"

Wei Zhao glanced at Zhou Chengwen and said in confusion, "She asked me to come. Is that not alright?"

Zhou Chengwen was furious. How could Wei Zhao even ask him? He was ready to let it all out. Wei Zhao had laid hands on his sister in the secret realm, and now she was in his sister's room. There was definitely something inappropriate about her actions towards his sister.

Zhou Qingxue pulled Wei Zhao, who was still sitting on the chair, and whispered, "My brother's here. I'll call you next time." She then escorted Wei Zhao out of the room under Zhou Chengwen's bewildered gaze.

Observing the two outside the door, Zhou Chengwen noticed that both of them were wearing the same pair of earrings that his sister usually wore. He stared at his sister as she returned and asked, "Qingxue, what's with the earrings on her ears?"

Zhou Qingxue took a glance at Zhou Chengwen and said, "Brother, I gave them to her to make it easier for us to stay in touch."

"Tell me honestly, why are you so concerned about this Wei Zhao? Do you have feelings for her?" Zhou Chengwen didn't finish his sentence, but Zhou Qingxue naturally understood what he meant.

She pursed her lips, and with her ears burning, she nodded in agreement.

Chapter 54

Zhou Chengwen was stunned for a moment. He didn't expect his sister to answer so decisively, "But you two have only known each other for a few days, how could this be?"

"Brother, just don't ask. I don't even know." Zhou Qingxue grabbed her brother's sleeve and talked for a long time to usher him away. In the sect, many female cultivators of her age already had their Dao companions. She didn't want to form any marriage alliances with practitioners from other sects or prestigious families.

After leaving Zhou Qingxue, Zhou Chengwen still felt uncertain. He turned and went to his mother Yao Xintong's residence. When Yao Xintong saw him return, she smiled and asked, "What's wrong? Did Qingxue finish all the snacks? If she wants more, I can make some again."

"It's not because of that, Mother. It seems like Qingxue has someone she likes," Zhou Chengwen hesitated and ended up telling Yao Xintong about Zhou Qingxue's situation.

"What, Qingxue likes someone? Is it a male cultivator or a female cultivator? What is their character like?" Yao Xintong was somewhat absent-minded. She always considered Qingxue as a child who knew nothing, but now she realized her daughter had reached the age to find a Dao companion.

Zhou Chengwen glanced at Yao Xintong and said, "His name is Wei Zhao. He's a new disciple who recently entered the inner sect. He has achieved the cultivation level of golden core completion and has great potential in cultivation. As for his character, I don't know him well, so I'm not sure."

Yao Xintong nodded, "Alright, when I have some free time, I'll go see that child. The rest doesn't matter, as long as he is a good person and treats Qingxue well."

Only after Zhou Chengwen finished speaking to Yao Xintong did he breathe a sigh of relief.

Yao Xintong, seeing Zhou Chengwen leave, gradually became overshadowed by a worried expression.

On the other side, Song Weizhi and Song Zhixia had already returned to their residence. After a day of cultivation at the Cold Mountain Sword Sect, Song Weizhi's alarm bells started ringing again in her heart. Here, an elder could reach the Foundation Establishment stage, which was two realms higher than her. If something really happened, how could she protect her little niece?

Song Weizhi took a leave of absence and instructed Wei Zhao, then set up a barrier in the room, and she and Song Zhixia began to elevate their cultivation.

Song Zhixia had broken through to the Golden Core stage in the secret realm and couldn't break through another realm in a short time, or she might attract others' suspicion. Song Weizhi's cultivation was inscrutable to others, they only thought her to be at the peak of Golden Core stage. Thus, Song Weizhi planned to quickly break through during these days.

She checked her system points, which amounted to 1400, and gritted her teeth, exchanging 1000 points for cultivation-enhancing pills.

"Congratulations, host, the exchange of pills is successful, and there are 400 points remaining." The mechanical voice of the system sounded in Song Weizhi's mind.

She retrieved the original book and found that after the original owner and Song Weizhi arrived at the Cold Mountain Sword Sect, the events in the original book were trivial. Later, the female protagonist was framed and pushed into the Bloodthirsty Cliff, but now, her days in the Cold Mountain Sword Sect were peaceful. Song Weizhi was puzzled and asked the system, "Is it because of my presence, that the plot in the original book has been affected?"

"Yes, host, because in Laihai City, you had already altered many events from the original book, so the plot has already deviated from its original track, and only you can explore what will happen next. The system also doesn't know what will happen next," the system replied.

Song Weizhi nodded. After exchanging the pills, she began her cultivation.

Although Song Zhixia wanted to get closer to Song Weizhi, she knew she couldn't disturb her senior sister's cultivation. Moreover, she wanted to be able to protect Song Weizhi soon. Therefore, she also cultivated diligently.

At this point, only Wei Zhao was left. Taking a leave of absence, she guarded Song Weizhi and Song Zhixia day and night, fearing something would happen to them.

She even turned down Qingxue's invitations several times.

More than ten days had passed since they entered seclusion, and Qingxue couldn't help but come to find Wei Zhao. She flew over on her sword and saw Wei Zhao sitting in front of Song Weizhi's door cushion, and she couldn't help but get angry.

"You have no time to accompany me, but you have time to guard your master here? How long have you been here to guard Song Weizhi?" Qingxue came over, speaking in a frustrated tone.

Wei Zhao stood up. She wondered what had gotten into Young Miss.

"Of course, my master is cultivating inside, so I must be here to guard," Wei Zhao said matter-of-factly.

"Master, master, master, do you know anything else besides your master?" Qingxue was also a little angry. From childhood to adulthood, she always turned down others, and this was the first time someone had refused her so many times. It made her feel like she was forcing herself on others.

"My life was given to me by my master. Without her, there is no me. Of course, I should prioritize everything for my master," Wei Zhao explained. She was the bodyguard her master had drawn from the blind box. If it wasn't for her master, she'd still be in the dark box and wouldn't have seen the light of day. However, she couldn't say these things to Qingxue.

When Qingxue heard Wei Zhao say that, her eyes turned red. If she did so much and still couldn't attract Wei Zhao's attention, and Wei Zhao's first consideration was her master, then what difference did her actions make compared to being a clown in Wei Zhao's eyes?

Thinking this, Qingxue, with tears in her eyes, said, "Fine, I won't bother you in the future. You can spend your life with your master." With that, tears fell from her eyes as she turned and ran outside.

Back in the room, Song Weizhi, after more than ten days of cultivation and the effect of the exchanged pills, had reached the Foundation Establishment stage completion, which was a full realm higher than her previous Golden Core stage. However, she was still a little worried because this level of cultivation wasn't enough in Jimo City.

After hearing Wei Zhao's conversation with Qingxue, every word fell on Song Weizhi's ears. Finally, after circulating her spiritual power through her meridians, she opened her eyes and used her spiritual power to scan the next room, where she found the young girl still cultivating.

Song Weizhi got up and pushed open the door. Wei Zhao saw Song Weizhi coming over and immediately got up, saying, "Master, how did it go?"

Song Weizhi smiled and patted Wei Zhao's shoulder, setting up a barrier around the two of them. "Not bad. Do you think there's something different about yourself?"

"Different?" Wei Zhao looked at Song Weizhi in puzzlement, then let her spiritual power flow through her body, only to discover that the Golden Core in her dantian had turned into a little doll, sitting obediently in her dantian.

Wei Zhao, with no expression on her face, smiled and said, "Master, have you reached the Foundation Establishment completion stage?"

Song Weizhi nodded and said, "I don't know why, ever since we came to Jimo City, I've felt uneasy. The Foundation Establishment stage cultivation isn't enough. I need to practice more."

Song Weizhi seemed to think of something and continued, "I heard you upset Qingxue just now?"

Wei Zhao pursed her lips and said, somewhat awkwardly, "It's not that I upset her. She called me several times these days, and I refused every time, so I was busy with important matters."

Song Weizhi chuckled and said, "Alright, go and make amends with her. I heard her crying inside just now. Also, in the future, don't prioritize me in everything. You have your own life too."

"Huh? But my life is to protect you." Wei Zhao looked puzzled.

Song Weizhi sighed and smiled, "You'll understand later. Go and cheer her up. If you don't cheer her up, you can't come back."

This put Wei Zhao in a dilemma. She could go to fight, and she could kill, but she couldn't really console people. "Well, how do I console her? Can you teach me?" Wei Zhao looked troubled.

Song Weizhi teased Wei Zhao. While she was good at killing demonic beasts, she was now struggling with consoling Qingxue.

Song Weizhi, jokingly, said, "When I console Zhixia, I usually hug her and kiss her. Why don't you try that?" Holding back her laughter, she said teasingly.

As the words fell, Song Weizhi saw Wei Zhao's head shake like a rattle. Did she want to be beaten to death by Miss if she hugged her and kissed her?

"Alright, I'm just kidding. Take the little Golden Core doll from your dantian and show it to Qingxue, and say a few kind words."

"Is that going to work?" Wei Zhao asked with some uncertainty.

"It'll definitely work. Normally, people don't take out their Golden Core for others to see. By doing this, it shows that you consider Qingxue as a friend. She'll be happy, and besides, those with a higher cultivation than you can sense it, so there's no need to hide it." Song Weizhi explained.

Upon hearing this, Wei Zhao immediately went to find Qingxue, while Song Weizhi sat in front of the girl's room, guarding her.

When Wei Zhao arrived at Qingxue's small courtyard, she found that there were already a man and a woman in the courtyard. Zhou Chengwen, of course, also saw her and wanted to rush over to beat her, but was stopped by the woman beside him.

"Wei, you made my sister so upset, and you still have the nerve to come over?" Zhou Chengwen's chest heaved.

"I didn't mean to upset her just now. I came to apologize, okay?"

"You're still trying to act tough? I'll beat you up, and then you'll know better," Zhou Chengwen said as he tried to move forward, but was blocked by the woman beside him.

"Chengwen, don't overstep," she said with a smile. Then, she turned to Wei Zhao and said, "I'm Qingxue's mother. This child has had a strong personality since childhood. It's best to let the involved parties deal with it. I'd like to trouble Miss Wei to go and have a look."

Upon hearing that she was Qingxue's mother, Wei Zhao immediately became respectful. "Aunt, you're too kind. I haven't even thanked you for the snacks you've made for us. I'll go in and take a look now."

Yao Xintong watched Wei Zhao and felt that the child was upright and good-looking just by her demeanor alone, no wonder she caught her daughter Qingxue's eye.

"Mother, just let her go in like this? What about us?" Zhou Chengwen asked.

"Let's go back. You know your sister's temper; finally, there's someone who can coax her," Yao Xintong said with a smile as she took Zhou Chengwen's hand and left.

Chapter 55

Wei Zhao knocked on the door in front of Zhou Qingxue and said, "Qingxue, it's me. I'm coming in." She then tried to push the door.

Qingxue's voice came from inside the room. "Who invited you? Go and accompany your master. I don't want to see you."

Despite hearing the muffled voice from inside, Wei Zhao still pushed the door open. She was hit by the things thrown by the young lady, fortunately, it was just handkerchiefs and blankets, which didn't hurt much when they hit her. Wei Zhao hurriedly gathered these items and placed them on the table in the room.

Looking up, she saw the young lady lying in front of the wall, her shoulders trembling, apparently quite upset.

Wei Zhao carefully walked to the bedside, found a place to sit, and sneakily leaned in to look at the young lady's expression.

As Qingxue covered herself with the blanket, she used her hand to push Wei Zhao, "Get out. I don't need you here. Go attend to your master."

Wei Zhao barely moved when Qingxue pushed. She reached out and grabbed Qingxue's wrist, and in a rare soft tone said, "Qingxue, don't be angry. I didn't mean to. I apologize, alright?"

Qingxue turned away, burying herself under the blanket. Wei Zhao was taken aback. The young lady was indeed difficult to appease.

Recalling her master's words, she took out the little golden figurine from her Qi sea. The little guy was still trying to play with Wei Zhao, who handed it over to Qingxue through the gap in the blanket.

"Qingxue, I brought you something fun. Take a look at this. Please don't be mad at me. I've never pacified anyone before. It's really hard."

Qingxue felt something being put in her blanket. Wiping her tears, she sat up and found a little golden figurine in her arms. On closer inspection, she realized it was an infant spirit. Forget her anger with Wei Zhao, she turned and asked, "Where did you get this infant spirit?"

Seeing Qingxue being open to her, Wei Zhao hastened to explain, "It's mine. I brought it for you to play with and to calm you down."

The little figurine was nothing like Wei Zhao. It snuggled Qingxue's hand and nuzzled in her palm, treating her as if they were close. Qingxue's lips curved slightly, but she soon suppressed it, glaring at Wei Zhao. "Have you come to finish or keep your master company?"

Wei Zhao knew referring to her master made Qingxue angry. She explained, "My master has a Daoist partner, Miss Song, who doesn't need my company either."

"That's even better. Ice Cube, don't show this infant spirit to anyone else casually in the future. It's important." Qingxue glanced at Wei Zhao.

"Yes, I understand. But as for you, you're not just anyone. Aren't you no longer upset?" Wei Zhao asked cautiously, seeing the young lady's calmness.

"Come over and sit closer to me." Qingxue blushed intensely.

Seeing Qingxue's rare calmness, Wei Zhao obediently moved closer and put away her figurine.

As Qingxue snuggled into Wei Zhao's arms before she could react, Wei Zhao, stunned, recalled her master comforting her Daoist partner in a similar way. She cautiously wrapped her arms around Qingxue's slender waist.

Unnoticed, Qingxue secretly smiled. She knew Ice Cube couldn't stand her tears. It was only a matter of time before she made Ice Cube like her. No, it wasn't her who started liking Ice Cube first. It was because Ice Cube hugged her first inside the secret realm, taking advantage of her!

Only after consoling Qingxue did Wei Zhao relax. If only Hua Ben hadn't deceived her, she would only have needed to consider her master. Now, she not only had to cope with the young lady but also didn't know why she felt uncomfortable when Qingxue cried. Let's just accept that she has found herself another master.

Pondering this, she noticed the disciples in front of her in turmoil.

"Something's wrong. The black-clothed men are attacking the residence of the inner sect disciples."

"Quick, inform the headmaster."

Wei Zhao panicked upon hearing of trouble at the disciples' residence and hurried back. Upon arriving, she saw several black-clothed men surrounding Song Wei Zhi, but Zhao Xuankun and others were also nearby, lending assistance.

"How's the situation, Master?" Wei Zhao urgently shouted, joining the battle with her whip.

Facing a dozen black-clothed men, Song Wei Zhi wielded her sword, trying to fend them off. She managed to find a moment to tell Wei Zhao, "Wei Zhao, go help Xuankun protect Xiazixia. I've got this covered."

Xiazixia was still unconscious after entering a meditative state. Prematurely interrupting meditation could cause internal injuries, and in the worst case, it risked falling into the demonic path.

With the enemies' cultivation levels around the Infant Spirit stage and their numerous numbers, Zhao Xuankun soon found it difficult to handle them. Thankfully, with Wei Zhao's return, she was able to fend off the assailants attempting to force their way into the residence.

After blocking the attackers, Wei Zhao turned her attention to protect Xiazixia, who finally stopped and retreated. Yet, five or six black-clothed individuals appeared on the roof, attempting to infiltrate from above. Wei Zhao rushed to intercept. Although she had reached the full Infant Spirit stage, she soon found it challenging to fend off seven or eight adversaries by herself. Fortunately, room inside was protected by Song Wei Zhi's barrier, making it difficult to breach.

On Song Wei Zhi's side, surrounded by a dozen black-clothed men, she managed to disperse four to five of them but with more approaching, and their leader's martial prowess surpassed hers, leaving parts of the fight unattended.

"Hmph, you better hand over the person we're looking for. It's not you we're after," the leader with a strange voice said.

"You wish." Song Wei Zhi's moon-white disciple attire had amassed some bloodstains, both hers and her adversaries'. She had not expected the crisis to come so soon.

Wei Zhao, being hit on the rooftop, touched her left earring in panic. "Qingxue, are you there? My master and I are surrounded by black-clothed men. Can you find help for us?"

Qingxue thought Wei Zhao had come looking for her when she realized it was in desperation. "Wei Zhao, be careful. I'm coming."

She immediately soared towards Zhou Cheng Wen, "Brother, the black-clothed men have invaded our area. Quickly summon disciples to assist me."

Without a word, Zhou Cheng Wen gathered his disciples and headed towards the inner sect disciples' residence.

Seeing that Wei Zhao was surrounded by seven or eight black-clothed men, Qingxue's eyes turned red. She hurried to help Wei Zhao.

Zhou Cheng Wen, alongside his disciples, confronted the black-clothed men. Realizing the situation wasn't favorable, their leader ordered, "Retreat." He and his companions rushed to escape.

The remaining assailants were either slain by the disciples or took their own lives after being captured, leaving no one alive.

Song Wei Zhi, enduring her sword wounds, had already expended a considerable amount of spiritual energy and sustained several cuts. She now appeared pale, and Wei Zhao wasn't faring much better, being supported by Zhou Qingxue.

Zhou Cheng Wen instructed his disciples to search the black-clothed men's bodies to see if they could determine their identities.

"How's it going?" Zhou Cheng Wen inquired.

"Senior Brother, they're from the Soul-Inducing Sect. Each of them had the character 'soul' carved on their chests."

"Why would demonic cultivators come here for no reason to kill people?" murmured Zhou Cheng Wen.

Observing the wounds on Wei Zhao, Zhou Qingxue's eyes reddened. "Why didn't you tell me earlier? Just look at how you're hurt. I specifically said not to make me cry." Tears streamed down the young lady's face.

Wei Zhao wiped her bloodied hand on her clothes before reaching up to wipe away Qingxue's tears. A faint smile appeared on her pallid face, "Don't cry. It doesn't hurt."

"Having lost so much blood, how can it not hurt? I'll go and dress your wounds." Sniffling, Zhou Qingxue supported Wei Zhao as they made their way back to the room.