Chapter 221: Why Are All of Them Fox Spirits? (6k)

Er Daye merely smiled faintly, a teasing, mocking glint in his eyes: “What’s wrong, Lao Shuo? Haven’t seen each other in centuries, and you don’t recognize me anymore?”

Xuan Yuan Shuo instantly realized, his eyes lighting up with delight as he shouted: “You big jerk!”

Er Daye burst into laughter, and instantly, a terrifying pressure surged forth.

Everyone who felt that aura immediately turned pale, a deep reverence rising in their hearts.

“Zhan Ling realm—”

All eyes snapped back to Er Daye, filled with disbelief.

This ordinary student who always trailed behind Lin Daochen—could he really be a Zhan Ling realm expert, just like the Prince?

How could this be!

No wonder Zhou Qing is so powerful—he’s being personally guided by a Zhan Ling realm expert.

Now it’s clear: the Peng Emperor wasn’t killed by Zhou Qing, but by this Zhan Ling realm expert. Zhou Qing was cursed with the blood seal only because he happened to deliver the final blow.

Hearing the murmurs around him, Er Daye smiled faintly.

That was exactly the effect he wanted—Zhou Qing was still too weak; he didn’t want the boy hunted endlessly by the demon clans.

“Remember our bet?” Er Daye suddenly spoke.

Xuan Yuan Shuo laughed heartily, punching Er Daye in the chest: “You bastard, your illusion technique’s gotten even better—I didn’t spot it at all.”

“No wonder Zhou Qing kept defeating all my disciples—I should’ve figured it out sooner. Come on, let’s go inside and talk. Zhou Qing, you come too.”

Er Daye glanced at the few struggling flying beasts and said: “Take those feathered beasts far away.”

Jiangpo Army and the others snapped to attention, quickly hoisting the creatures and hurrying off.

As the crowd gradually withdrew, the chilling mark above Zhou Qing’s head finally faded slowly away.

Zhou Qing exhaled deeply, gave Lu Yaoyao and the others a reassuring glance, then followed after them.

…

Inside the hall, Er Daye had now transformed into another old man—white-haired, gentle-faced—sitting beside Xuan Yuan Shuo on the main seat, chatting and laughing freely.

Zhou Qing, seated below, was filled with suspicion, his gaze shifting back and forth between Er Daye and Xuan Yuan Shuo.

He suddenly realized something: had the appearance he’d always assumed was Er Daye’s true form actually been his real face?

His Nascent Soul enhancement could shift its form at will; even with [Heart Mirror Vision], it only confirmed his identity, not his appearance.

Perhaps, in some ways, he was even more reclusive than Second Sister—no one might have ever seen his true face.

In the end, Xuan Yuan Shuo’s gaze returned to Zhou Qing, brimming with curiosity and admiration.

Seeing this, Zhou Qing immediately rose and bowed.

Xuan Yuan Shuo smiled gently: “You brat—you’re his disciple? Lucky you. Work hard—he’s got plenty of treasures.”

Zhou Qing had wanted to explain he wasn’t Er Daye’s disciple, but when he met Er Daye’s gaze, he hesitated, then bowed again—acknowledging the relationship by silence.

“By the way, those herbs you mentioned—I don’t have any. I seem to recall they’re deep within Taiyao Mountain.”

Xuan Yuan Shuo frowned slightly, then spoke slowly.

Er Daye, hearing this, looked disappointed but said: “Alright, guess I’ll have to go myself. Is it dangerous inside?”

Xuan Yuan Shuo couldn’t help laughing: “What do you think? Taiyao Mountain’s leaderless now—more than just the Jiao Emperor from Xueyu Mountain and the Zhu Emperor from Qianhuan Miku are eyeing it. Even deeper creatures like the Weilun Demons and Qingluo Beasts have shown up recently.”

“If you insist on going, I’ll go with you. The Four-Color Array’s been repaired—it shouldn’t be an issue, and I know the exact location.”

Er Daye’s face lit up with joy: “That’s perfect! But don’t you dare team up with them to ambush me.”

“Get lost, you!” Xuan Yuan Shuo laughed and scolded.

Er Daye burst into laughter.

Clearly, their relationship was still strong.

“But speaking of it—this child’s seal in his soul sea was planted by that feathered beast’s dying blood curse. Those herbs probably won’t remove it, right?”

Xuan Yuan Shuo mused.

Er Daye waved his hand dismissively, calm and relaxed: “Don’t worry about that—I’ve got my own plan.”

“Alright, when do we leave?” Xuan Yuan Shuo asked.

Er Daye stood up immediately: “Let’s go now. I’ve got nothing better to do.”

“You’re just afraid this kid’ll be targeted by the Peng Clan, aren’t you? Zhou Qing, see this? You’ve got a great elder!” Xuan Yuan Shuo looked at Zhou Qing, eyes filled with envy and admiration.

Zhou Qing smiled awkwardly, but warmth surged in his chest.

After giving instructions to the Nine Army Commanders outside, Xuan Yuan Shuo followed Er Daye away.

…

When Zhou Qing stepped outside, Lu Yaoyao and the others rushed forward.

“Senior Zhou, are you alright? What happened? The Peng Emperor—”

Lu Yaoyao’s face was anxious, her eyes full of concern.

She’d asked Yan Xiaohu earlier, but the guy refused to say a word.

Seeing this, Zhou Qing quickly reassured her: “It’s fine. It’s all over.”

Seeing Zhou Qing wouldn’t elaborate, Lu Yaoyao sighed softly—but what about the seal? It was enough to drive a person mad.

At that moment, Lin Daochen approached, his expression complex.

He’d finally taken two promising disciples—only to find one was a Zhan Ling expert, and the other had killed a Zhan Ling expert. What a mess.

He’d thought that once border affairs were settled, he could bring them back to the academy and spend the rest of his time teaching them properly.

Now, thinking about it, he felt a little embarrassed.

Zhou Qing stepped forward, bowed respectfully, and said: “Master, we never meant to hide anything—we truly wanted to learn arrays and seals. No matter what, you’ll always be our Master.”

Lin Daochen’s heart warmed; a satisfied smile spread across his face, and he softly murmured, “Mm.”

As for the others, their awe toward Zhou Qing had deepened even further.

Not to mention—he’d at least teamed up with that Zhan Ling elder to kill the Peng Emperor of Taiyao Mountain.

Just that courage alone was beyond their reach.

When Zhou Qing returned to his quarters, Yan Xiaohu crept in furtively and slipped him a storage bag.

Seeing the sheer quantity of supreme-grade spirit stones inside, Zhou Qing’s heart leapt.

When Er Daye returns, I can exchange a few for Five Elements Spirit Stones to cultivate with.

“When’s our next match?” Yan Xiaohu said, though he looked pained—he knew you had to spend money to make money; the big payday was still ahead.

Looking at his third brother grinning up at him, Zhou Qing feigned confusion: “What match?”

“Sparring! I found out—the Prince has nearly thirty disciples, mostly Soul Transformation realm!”

Yan Xiaohu excitedly pulled out a crumpled list from his sleeve and unfurled it—names filled every inch.

But six names had been crossed out.

Zhou Qing sighed helplessly and explained the bet between Er Daye and Xuan Yuan Shuo.

Yan Xiaohu’s grin froze instantly.

Wait—I already planned everything! I was going to bet all my spirit stones on you winning!

How could you do this?

Do you even deserve my trust?

Zhou Qing gently patted his shoulder, then shook his head.

Even if we kept sparring, everyone would bet on me—you wouldn’t make any money.

I just wonder—how many days until Er Daye and Prince Xuan Yuan Shuo return?

With Zhan Ling cultivation, it shouldn’t take long.

“Where’s the old hen?” Zhou Qing looked around.

Yan Xiaohu slumped, dejected: “Lu Shimei’s holding her. Sigh… I had a chance right in front of me, and I didn’t cherish it—now I regret it.”

After seeing Yan Xiaohu off, Zhou Qing took out the array insights from Su Lishan and Wu Tiangang and began reading.

He was only fourteen spirit seals away from advancing to Level Two Array Master.

But before an hour passed, Lu Yaoyao sent him an excited message.

“Senior Zhou, hurry over! Important guests have arrived!”

Zhou Qing was puzzled, about to ask, when Yan Xiaohu burst in, pounding on the door.

“Fourth! Get out here!”

Before Zhou Qing could even react, Yan Xiaohu grabbed his arm and dragged him running.

Zhou Qing stumbled, nearly falling, and cried: “What’s going on? Why the rush?”

Yan Xiaohu only grinned, refusing to answer, and ran even faster.

Soon, they reached the training ground—every soldier stood in perfect formation, eyes fixed ahead, radiating lethal intensity.

At the front, the Nine Army Commanders stood equally solemn; the battlefield legends who once roared with authority now held all their sharpness in check, waiting silently.

Lu Yaoyao, Lu Yuanzhi, and the others stood behind the crowd, waving to him.

The Seventh Imperial Prince and Ninth Princess stood expectantly at the front.

Especially Xuan Yuan Muxian—her eyes sparkled, occasionally tiptoeing to peer ahead.

In the distant sky, a massive space vessel was slowly approaching.

The ship wasn’t large, but exuded luxury—its carvings on both sides were exquisitely detailed and noble.

“Who is this?” Zhou Qing asked curiously.

Lu Yaoyao, excited, said: “The Imperial Consort from the capital—also the Ninth Princess’s birth mother. She’s a fox clan member, deeply favored by the current Emperor.”

Zhou Qing understood—no wonder such a grand reception.

“The Emperor’s woman—we never get to see her on ordinary days, but today we’re in for a treat!” Yan Xiao Hu rubbed his hands together, his face alight with anticipation.

Zhou Qing smiled wryly—he’d thought something major had happened, but it was just an Imperial Consort. Was it really worth getting so worked up over?

Still, this Consort Chen seemed only the biological mother of the Ninth Princess; she probably had nothing to do with Xuan Yuan Yichen.

Soon, as the space vessel drew nearer, a heavy pressure washed over them.

Around the hull still hovered a faint spiritual energy shield, like a gauzy veil, keeping the dust kicked up from the ground at bay.

At the ship’s prow, a massive banner embroidered with the imperial crest fluttered in the wind, snapping loudly.

As the vessel settled steadily, the cabin door slowly opened, and a sudden wave of fragrant wind swept across the entire square.

Its scent was light, elegant, and uniquely distinctive—breathing it in felt like basking in spring breeze, yet it stirred an instinctive reverence.

All soldiers immediately bowed their heads in salute.

Then, a large group of guards clad in golden armor stepped forward first, followed by a line of maids dressed in plain white robes.

Each held exquisite items: incense fans, flower baskets, brocade handkerchiefs, and jeweled jewelry boxes, among others.

“Mother—” Xuan Yuan Mukan couldn’t wait and rushed inside.

Soon, she emerged, gently supporting a beautiful woman dressed in lavish palace attire.

The woman’s black hair, streaked with silver, was identical to Lu Yaoyao’s and the Ninth Princess’s—smoothly cascading down her back, swaying gently in the breeze.

Her eyes were exquisite: naturally deep blue, shimmering with an innate nobility and cold beauty.

Her skirt trailed for several zhang, yet still failed to conceal the seven silver-white tails behind her.

“We pay our respects to Consort Chen!”

The nine army commanders bowed in unison.

Consort Chen nodded slightly, her voice clear and melodious: “Rise, all of you. Is my uncle not here today?”

The commander of the Longxiang Army stepped forward immediately: “Your Highness, the Prince has just departed with an old friend for Taiyao Mountain. His return time is unknown.”

Xuan Yuan Mukan affectionately linked arms with Consort Chen, pouting: “Mother, Grandfather’s busy. By the way, why did you come all of a sudden? I was shocked when I heard the news!”

Consort Chen smiled gently, then lightly pinched her daughter’s nose, her eyes brimming with tenderness and affection.

“So you don’t want me to come?” she murmured, a faint smile playing on her lips.

Xuan Yuan Mukan hurried to reply: “No, no, of course not! It’s just… since I can remember, I’ve never seen Mother leave the inner palace.”

Consort Chen reached out and stroked Xuan Yuan Mukan’s hair. “Foolish child. Not seeing something doesn’t mean it never happened.”

At that moment, the Seventh Prince, Xuan Yuan Yichen, stepped forward, bowing slightly: “Your Majesty—”

Consort Chen smiled warmly, her gaze soft as it settled on Xuan Yuan Yichen, filled with admiration: “I didn’t expect that after so long, you’ve already grasped the realm of Yi. It seems your ascent to Soul Transformation won’t take long.”

Xuan Yuan Yichen replied humbly: “I still don’t know how long it will take to fully ascend. I can only do my best.”

Consort Chen nodded, her eyes softening with maternal warmth: “Don’t rush. You’re already far stronger than those few others.”

“When I left, your father praised you—especially Mukan. She’s grown up clinging to your heels, and now you’ve taken such good care of her.”

Xuan Yuan Yichen said: “It’s only natural. My sister and I are nearly the same age; looking out for each other is only right.”

“Alright, let’s not talk about that anymore. I brought some of your favorite Yulu cakes and Zhiyan wine inside—remember to collect them later,” Consort Chen said.

Xuan Yuan Yichen’s eyes lit up instantly; he licked his lips and bowed quickly: “Thank you, Your Majesty.”

…

Nearby, Yan Xiao Hu crossed his arms, staring fixedly at Consort Chen, muttering: “The palace women really are beautiful—especially when they’re from the demonic clans. Look at how those tails sway. By the way, does the current Emperor have a thing for…?”

“Cough—cough!”

Zhou Qing cleared his throat sharply as a warning.

What are you saying? Lu Yaoyao and Master Lu are right here.

Especially Lu Yuanzhi, who frowned slightly, her eyes betraying a hint of displeasure.

Yan Xiao Hu finally realized his mistake, awkwardly scratched his nose, chuckled, and fell silent.

Zhou Qing, meanwhile, studied Consort Chen thoughtfully.

From appearance alone, Consort Chen seemed utterly human, every gesture exuding grace and nobility.

Yet the tails she hadn’t fully concealed still clearly proved she was a Soul Transformation cultivator.

But what level exactly? That remained unknown.

Still, one had to admit: even from afar, the seductive aura radiating from her made the heart tremble.

Wait—

Soon, Zhou Qing seemed to notice something, then immediately turned to look at Lu Yaoyao.

Sure enough, the girl’s eyes sparkled as she stared fixedly at Consort Chen’s hair.

Zhou Qing sighed inwardly.

This girl truly had a soft spot for anyone with hair like hers—or even similar.

“Hmm?” Zhou Qing suddenly sensed Master Lu’s displeasure—her brow furrowed, her expression chilled.

It was just a joke from Third Brother. Is it really that serious?

“You’ve seen the person. Your cultivation today can’t be skipped. Let’s go!” Master Lu stepped forward and spoke to Lu Yaoyao.

Lu Yaoyao was reluctant, but under Master Lu’s urging, she nodded obediently, glancing back every few steps as she left.

Consort Chen, still speaking with her beloved daughter, noticed the retreating figure and bit her lip, a complex emotion flickering in her eyes.

Xuan Yuan Mukan was about to call out to Lu Yaoyao and show her mother their matching hair—when Consort Chen gently tugged her sleeve.

“Don’t call out,” Consort Chen whispered, her voice tense.

Xuan Yuan Mukan was puzzled.

…

That night, Zhou Qing suddenly opened his eyes while cultivating.

He opened his door to find Master Lu standing quietly outside, radiating a cold, icy aura.

“Zhou Qing, when do you plan to leave?” Master Lu asked bluntly.

Zhou Qing paused, then replied honestly: “Probably after Second Uncle returns.”

After all, their mission on the border was complete. If Second Uncle truly recovered those spirit herbs to stimulate the blood curse in the mind sea and trigger the Four Flowers’ self-destruction, it would at least happen away from the border.

Master Lu nodded.

Two Zhan Ling cultivators traveling together to Taiyao Mountain—under normal circumstances, they’d face little danger and return soon.

“Master Lu, is something wrong?” Zhou Qing asked, sensing her grave expression.

Master Lu hesitated slightly, then said: “Nothing’s wrong. I just thought… the Academy’s secret realm would greatly benefit Yaoyao’s cultivation. The sooner we return, the sooner she can enter.”

Zhou Qing understood Master Lu’s deep hopes for Lu Yaoyao.

“Alright, we won’t delay you!” Master Lu said, then left.

After turning several corners, she looked up at the sky—her pupils had turned vertical.

There, invisible to others, countless threads stretched across the entire border, anchored to an octagonal platform emitting faintly eerie light.

“Xuanguang Jianyao Platform… So he knew I was here from the moment I arrived, yet pretended ignorance. That’s why she came.”

Master Lu murmured to herself.

She should’ve realized sooner: this border was a critical zone, teeming with shape-shifting demon kings. If any infiltrators disguised themselves, and there was no way to detect them, enemy spies could easily slip in and threaten countless soldiers.

When Lu Yuanzhi returned to her quarters, she found a palace-dressed beauty standing there.

Seeing the woman, Lu Yuanzhi’s calm gaze instantly turned icy. Without hesitation, she turned to leave.

Consort Chen’s eyes flickered with panic; she cried out urgently: “Second sister—”

“You’re mistaken,” Lu Yuanzhi said coldly, devoid of warmth.

Consort Chen bit her lip, pain flashing in her eyes, then hurried after her.

“Second sister, I know you blame me—but in that situation, what would you have done? If Big Sister had…”

“Don’t mention Big Sister. You’re not worthy!” Lu Yuanzhi suddenly stopped and roared.

Instantly, eight shimmering silver tails erupted behind her.

No—not eight. Nine!

The ninth tail was smaller, hidden among the others, now slowly emerging.

Though smaller, it carried no less authority, radiating the same immense power as the rest.

All nine tails surged toward Consort Chen in a howling rush—then halted just before piercing her.

Lu Yuanzhi trembled violently, her eyes bloodshot, locked onto Consort Chen.

Consort Chen’s eyes widened in shock, filled with disbelief.

“You’re about to break through to Zhan Ling?”

Lu Yuanzhi snorted, said not another word, and turned away.

Watching the figure vanish into the night, two silent tears traced down Consort Chen’s cheeks.

…

Early the next morning, Lu Yaoyao came to Zhou Qing carrying the old hen.

“Master Lu said she had urgent business and left ahead of schedule!” Lu Yaoyao held up a note left by Lu Yuanzhi.

Zhou Qing frowned. Why so sudden?

Hadn’t she just come to ask him last night?

But Lu Yaoyao looked like she’d uncovered a world-shattering secret. She glanced around, then leaned close to Zhou Qing, whispering.

“Last night, the old hen wandered off. I was afraid the soldiers would catch her for a feast, so I went looking. Guess what I saw?”

Her eyes widened with excitement.

Zhou Qing found her expression amusing and asked along, “What?”

Lu Yaoyao whispered furtively, “I saw her arguing with Imperial Consort Chen, and she grew nine fox tails.”

Zhou Qing’s pupils shrank instantly, his eyes filled with shock as he blurted out, “Master Lu… is she a demon race?”

Lu Yaoyao nodded vigorously.

“Really, I saw it with my own eyes—those nine tails were huge and beautiful, their fur shimmering,” Lu Yaoyao said, gesturing with the hen in her arms.

Zhou Qing still couldn’t believe it; he had noticed nothing unusual in daily life.

Aren’t Nascent Soul demon kings supposed to retain obvious physical traits? How could Master Lu show none?

What part of her hadn’t changed?

(End of Chapter)