Are You In Love With Him?

Are You In Love With Him? . . . 

As the moonlight bathed the ancient courtyard, Qin Wentian's gaze remained fixed upon Jiang Ziyu. His eyes, filled with a mixture of surprise and intrigue, betrayed his astonishment at the unexpected turn the conversation had taken. Jiang Ziyu, with a sly grin playing on his lips, had abruptly shifted the subject, extending a rather unexpected invitation: a visit to the illustrious Jiang Clan.

However, the enigmatic Jiang Ziyu concealed depths that were far from comprehensible. His actions, governed by an innate instinct for self-preservation, ensured he would never willingly step into a trap. Qin Wentian responded with a touch of skepticism, "Moments ago, you warned me about the dire consequences of my secrets being exposed. And now, you're inviting me to your clan? Do you not find the irony in this? Would I not become a pawn in your hands the moment I set foot in the Jiang Clan?"

A sly smile graced Jiang Ziyu's lips as he reassured, "Rest assured, should you choose to grace us with your presence, you shall be treated with the utmost respect and courtesy." His eyes sparkled with an elusive mystique and an unwavering self-confidence that left no room for anyone to see through his motives.

With a hint of sarcasm, Qin Wentian countered, "An ancient clan, steeped in the annals of history. Who's to say what arcane methods you wield? Perhaps your clan possesses the ability to control the very will of those who enter its premises." He couldn't help but offer a cold smile. Jiang Ziyu's naivety, it seemed, knew no bounds.

"I'm rather occupied," Qin Wentian replied, his tone void of emotion.

Jiang Ziyu, employing a bit of reverse psychology, probed, "You're not afraid, are you?"

Qin Wentian's voice dripped with disdain as he retorted, "Do you honestly believe that one casual sentence will convince me to visit your clan? Do you truly think you merit such favor?" His words sliced through the air, his contempt for Jiang Ziyu's reverse psychology technique laid bare.

Jiang Ziyu chuckled softly, an amused twinkle in his eyes, hardly surprised by the response. It would indeed be strange if Qin Wentian had acquiesced.

With a sigh, Jiang Ziyu turned his gaze toward the two figures ascending into the night sky. In a hushed tone, he muttered, "It appears you're resolute in hindering my progress today."

Qin Wentian's reply was impassive, "Our duty is to protect the holy maidens, not interfere in their battles. You've overstepped your bounds."

The ancient courtyard, now bathed in moonlight, bore witness to the intricate dance of intentions and ambitions between the two men, as the world of power and politics continued to revolve around them.

"Since I am the guardian of Nanfeng Qingruo, it is my solemn duty to spare no effort in aiding her to attain her aspirations. Your viewpoint, though somewhat unconventional, undeniably possesses remarkable strength. I cannot disregard your presence and continue assisting Qingruo in her ascent. It appears that the title of Holy Successor in this generation will fall into the hands of Nanfeng Yunxi," Jiang Ziyu calmly declared, as if discussing a matter entirely detached from his personal stake. To him, the outcome of this competition held little sway over his own existence.

Jiang Ziyu's words left Qin Wentian with a peculiar impression: his involvement in aiding Nanfeng Qingruo during these trials seemed more like an exercise in self-improvement. He carried a carefree demeanor, ready to exert his utmost effort in the contest, yet equally prepared to accept defeat without disturbing the tranquility of his heart. He promptly relegated this setback to the recesses of his mind, letting it slip away effortlessly. His inner composure resembled that of Buddhist cultivators seeking serenity amidst life's tempestuous currents.

In contrast, Kong Ye, one of Nanfeng Shengge's protectors, found himself grappling with inner turmoil that couldn't hold a candle to Jiang Ziyu's equanimity.

"Qin Wentian, though your combat prowess is truly astounding, we find ourselves hindered from unleashing our full might in this duel. Were we to do so, the odds of your defeat would surely rise significantly," Jiang Ziyu expressed, an avid curiosity gleaming in his eyes. Previously reserved in conversation, his encounter with Qin Wentian had piqued his interest, compelling him to uncover the enigma shrouding Qin Wentian's secrets.

Qin Wentian, despite being younger, possessed a level of combat proficiency that had captured Jiang Ziyu's intrigue. During their battle, Jiang Ziyu had glimpsed numerous extraordinary facets of Qin Wentian.

"Who can predict the outcome if we both give our all? I have little inclination to engage in such speculative discussions," Qin Wentian responded. While Jiang Ziyu probed him, Qin Wentian, in turn, scrutinized Jiang Ziyu. Time was on his side; as long as he kept Jiang Ziyu preoccupied, victory would inevitably favor Nanfeng Yunxi.

"Indeed," Jiang Ziyu concurred with a nod. "On another note, I've heard that you hail from the Thousand Transformations Immortal Sect. Are you a disciple of the Thousand Transformations Emperor Lord?"

"What concern is it of yours?" Qin Wentian inquired.

A wry smile curved Jiang Ziyu's lips. "If you aren't affiliated with him, why not consider joining the Jiang Clan? I can vouch for you and ensure you receive extensive nurturing, guidance, and treatment equivalent to that of a clan scion. Even if you do have a master, you can always switch sects. We, the Jiang Clan, are one of the Southern Region's three ancient powerhouses, boasting foundations deeper and more robust than most. You must have already witnessed the grandeur of the Southern Phoenix Clan, a testament to our stature."

"Your kindness is greatly appreciated, but I must politely decline any association with the Jiang Clan," Qin Wentian responded with a gracious nod, his tone carrying a firm resolve.

Jiang Ziyu, however, interjected with a hint of intrigue, "You're not a disciple of the Thousand Transformations Emperor Lord, are you?"

Qin Wentian, maintaining his air of indifference, replied, "Believe what you will."

A enigmatic smile played on Jiang Ziyu's lips as he continued, "There's no need to attempt to conceal the truth; I've already discerned the answer." Qin Wentian gazed into Jiang Ziyu's eyes, finding them to be portals to an inscrutable and mysterious mind. Perhaps Nanfeng Shengge's claims were valid; Jiang Ziyu's mastery of the Heavenly Vision Technique allowed him to unravel all illusions, even penetrating the innermost thoughts of individuals. If this held true, his abilities were nothing short of terrifying.

Nanfeng Shengge had been an attentive observer of their exchange, flanked by Kong Ye. She couldn't help but notice that despite Kong Ye's status as a pinnacle heaven-chosen figure in the Southern Region, he still paled in comparison to the two young men before her. Qin Wentian had vanquished Kong Ye with a mere first-level immortality cultivation, while Jiang Ziyu remained an enigma, capable of deciphering the concealed secrets of parasol leaves. His combat prowess bordered on the extraordinary.

It appeared that Jiang Ziyu could rightfully be regarded as a prodigious genius within his generation of the Jiang Clan. His decision to refine himself in the immortal realms, with the Southern Phoenix Clan as his chosen destination, hinted at a temperament to be reckoned with. Once he reached maturity, he would undoubtedly emerge as a formidable figure within the Jiang Clan's ranks.

Yet, when compared to Jiang Ziyu, Qin Wentian continued to astound her. He lacked the support and shelter of an ancient clan, yet his potential remained undeniable. In the years to come, he would undoubtedly usher in a new era.

In that moment, a sudden burst of radiance pierced the air. Qin Wentian turned his gaze skyward, witnessing a cascade of crimson-hued motes raining down, illuminating the surroundings. Nanfeng Yunxi's stairway, formed through her profound understanding, had reached its pinnacle.

Regrettably, Nanfeng Qingruo fell just short of this achievement. Her eyes reflected disappointment as she gazed upwards. Had her efforts come to naught despite her journey thus far?

A fiery beam descended from the heavens, reducing the stairway to smoldering embers. Nanfeng Qingruo had no choice but to descend to the ground, rejoining Qin Wentian and the others. She stood beside Jiang Ziyu, her exquisite gaze locking onto Qin Wentian. However, a gentle smile graced her lips as she spoke, "Sir Qin, you are truly remarkable. You have safeguarded Sister Yunxi's path to becoming the Holy Successor until the very end, securing her rightful place."

"Does Holy Maiden Qing'er truly believe this to be the case?" Qin Wentian inquired with a gentle tone. He continued, his words thoughtful, "In the end, Nanfeng Yunxi's journey to becoming the Holy Successor is a testament to her own capabilities. Her comprehension skills outshine many among the holy maidens, and she has consistently led the way. My role has merely been to shield her from external disturbances. If Holy Maiden Qing'er had surpassed Nanfeng Yunxi earlier, and with Jiang Ziyu here to ensure your safety, even I wouldn't have been able to thwart your ascent to the peak."

Nanfeng Qing'er responded with a warm smile, her eyes filled with wisdom. She remarked, "Your words hold undeniable logic, yet one mustn't underestimate the value that protectors bring to this competition. Shengge, despite her remarkable comprehension, found herself out of contention in the end." Her words cast a shadow of guilt across Kong Ye's face, as his defeat had indirectly affected Nanfeng Shengge's standing.

"That chapter has come to a close, Sister Qing'er. There's no need to dwell on it," Nanfeng Shengge chimed in, her smile reflecting a genuine sense of peace. Qin Wentian couldn't help but admire the Southern Phoenix Clan's extraordinary spirit. Both of these holy maidens were supreme heaven-chosen individuals, destined for illustrious achievements in the future.

"I won't say more, but I am genuinely eager to witness the view from up there," Nanfeng Qing'er confessed as she gazed in the direction of the colossal parasol tree's peak. Her eyes held a subtle hint of wistfulness as she glanced at Qin Wentian, her beauty momentarily leaving him speechless.

The holy maidens of the Southern Phoenix Clan were nothing short of celestial beauties, with Nanfeng Yunxi and the two before him standing out as the most exquisite among them. Qin Wentian, feeling a touch of guilt before Nanfeng Qing'er and Nanfeng Shengge, averted his gaze. The look in Nanfeng Qing'er's eyes seemed to suggest she knew something, and he dared not engage in a prolonged gaze with her.

As they conversed, Nanfeng Yunxi ascended to the pinnacle of the towering parasol tree. Her heart swelled with reverence as she advanced, her eyes fixed ahead with a rapid heartbeat.

Indeed, Nanfeng Yunxi was overcome with anticipation and anxiety.

But then, a soothing, ethereal voice, reminiscent of ancient times, whispered into Nanfeng Yunxi's ears. Her heart raced even faster upon hearing those words. In the distance, bathed in a golden radiance, stood another ancient golden tree, and before it, a living phoenix materialized in all its splendor. Flames enveloped its form, its wings exuding grace and brilliance, radiating purity. Its eyes gleamed with wisdom, as though capable of unraveling the world's mysteries.

Nanfeng Yunxi's voice quivered as she posed the question, her words barely a whisper, "Are you the progenitor of our Southern Phoenix Clan?" It was an almost surreal moment; here, in the ancestral lands, stood a living phoenix. The sheer awe of the encounter left her breathless.

"I can indeed be regarded as such. I have existed alongside the Southern Phoenix Clan since its inception," the ancient phoenix responded. Although it was a majestic, timeless creature, its voice held an otherworldly ethereality. Nanfeng Yunxi felt a gentle warmth emanating from the phoenix, infusing her with a profound serenity.

"Child, your immortal foundation is nearly flawless. You stand on the cusp of establishing a saint-grade immortal foundation, a feat nearly impossible in this era without fortuitous encounters. Moreover, I sense that your physical body has undergone a sacred baptism," the phoenix continued, its words resonating with wisdom. Nanfeng Yunxi nodded, affirming, "While I was in the City of Ancient Emperors, I experienced a moment of incredible fortune, and my body was bathed in sacred radiance. Furthermore, I've acquired knowledge of a method to achieve a saint-grade immortal foundation."

"The one who has been accompanying you as your protector is likely in a similar situation, having experienced the same blessings in the same location, correct?" the ancestral phoenix inquired.

"Yes," Nanfeng Yunxi confirmed.

"Excellent," the phoenix beamed, and then turned to a more personal inquiry, "Do you love him?"

Nanfeng Yunxi's heart skipped a beat. She fixed her gaze upon the ancestral phoenix, grappling with a question she had never expected. Was she truly in love with Qin Wentian?

Before meeting him in the City of Ancient Emperors, the concept of falling in love had never truly crossed her mind. But now, the situation had changed.

"Speak from your heart; this is of utmost importance. The Southern Phoenix Matriarch cannot wed an outsider unless he willingly integrates into our clan," the ancestral phoenix gently urged. Nanfeng Yunxi remained silent for several moments, carefully weighing her response before finally answering.