Wen SiYue

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Wang Heng coughed a few times, a trace of embarrassment flashing across his face as he cast a helpless glare at his wife. Fearing his discomfort would be noticed, he quickly looked away from Zhou Yuan's charming face, motioned for a maid to take the storage bag, and said, "Second Brother is family. Talking about money will only hurt feelings."

After a brief pause, he continued, "Do you have any spiritual medicines like Ascension Grass, White Dragon Fruit, or Reverse Spirit Leaf? I'd like to exchange some with you."

"These spiritual medicines cleanse the marrow and remove impurities. Are you planning to refine a meridian-expanding elixir?"

Hearing this, Qi Yuan immediately understood. His years of experience in alchemy allowed him to guess correctly in an instant.

If anything could make Wang Heng so concerned, it was likely the girl Zi Ling. Her spiritual root aptitude was not particularly high, and Wang Heng was worried about her future. He wanted to compensate for it in other ways.

Wang Heng's expression turned troubled as he said, "Ning'er's spiritual roots are lacking, making her cultivation progress slow. She can train her Qi and establish a foundation, but even with ample pills, forming a core will be difficult."

Zi Ling possessed the Yin Physique, a trait that, despite her poor spiritual roots, could allow her to progress rapidly if she switched to cultivating demonic techniques.

Qi Yuan observed the worried expressions of Wang Heng and Zhou Yuan, contemplating for a moment before saying, "Brother, have you ever considered having Zi Ling practice an alternative method, such as a demonic cultivation technique? It might yield better results."

Wang Heng's face darkened instantly, though he quickly composed himself. He studied Qi Yuan intently before speaking. "Strictly speaking, the Miaoyin Sect does not belong to any particular faction. If my daughter were to switch to the demonic path, it would be seen as an act of allegiance to that side. Future benefits and opportunities would be lost."

Zhou Yuan's expression also carried a hint of disapproval, making it clear she was dissatisfied with Qi Yuan's suggestion.

Qi Yuan felt a bit awkward. He had merely wanted to help Wang Heng, who had been assisting him in the search for the Five Elements Sky Star Stone for years. However, he had overlooked an important unspoken rule. While the Miaoyin Sect was not the most powerful, it was a mid-tier sect in the Chaos Star Sea. If a key figure publicly aligned with one side, it would become difficult for them to navigate neutral ground.

Sensing the growing tension, Wang Heng forced a smile and said, "Second Brother, I know you meant well. Recently, I have been searching for precious spiritual medicine, and I expect news soon. If I can obtain what I need, Ning'er's cultivation will have hope."

"It's hard to say right now, as the information isn't confirmed. But in the meantime, take these Ascension Grasses, Brother."

Qi Yuan retrieved a few balls of white light from his storage bag—each containing an elixir—and gently pushed them toward Wang Heng.

Wang Heng's face lit up with excitement as he accepted them without hesitation. Then, in a more secretive tone, he asked, "Second Brother, what do you think of Fan Zuoshi? Do you need my help?"

"With my level of cultivation, taking another concubine is no issue. Jingmei's beauty is quite exceptional."

Zhou Yuan chimed in with enthusiasm, her eagerness to win him over evident in her expression.

Qi Yuan chuckled and replied, "Brother, Sister-in-law, no need to be so eager. If I'm interested, I'll reach out myself. No need for you to worry."

Just as he finished speaking, two young women entered.

"Father, Mother, Big Brother."

Zi Ling greeted them shyly, while the girl in purple beside her also bowed politely.

Zi Ling had grown taller, her figure developing gracefully. However, her once-stunning face appeared ordinary—she must have used some kind of magic item to conceal her true beauty.

Qi Yuan's gaze landed on the unfamiliar girl. "Zi Ling, is this your new maid?"

"Big Brother, her name is Wen Siyue. She's a new disciple. We share a strong connection, so I asked Father to arrange for her to stay by my side."

Zi Ling's voice was crisp and clear.

"Si Yue greets Senior."

Wen Siyue's expression showed nervousness as she quickly bowed, uncertain of how to react to Qi Yuan's attention.

Qi Yuan waved his hand, using a gentle touch of magic to help her up. "No need to be so formal. Get up."

Turning to Wang Heng and Zhou Yuan, he asked, "Brother, Sister-in-law, I have some free time. How about I take Zi Ling and Siyue out for a walk?"

Zi Ling's big, sparkling eyes lit up with joy, her excitement barely contained. Zhou Yuan was usually strict, rarely allowing her to go out unaccompanied. Even when she did, it was always under her parents' watchful eyes. The idea of going out with Qi Yuan thrilled her.

Wen Siyue also looked delighted, her fair face slightly flushed.

After a moment of thought, Zhou Yuan nodded and said softly, "Alright. Little Brother, you must protect Ning'er and ensure her safety."

Qi Yuan gave a slight nod before leading Zi Ling and Wen Siyue into the bustling streets of Tianxing City.

As the capital of the Star Palace, Tianxing City was vast and filled with everything one could imagine. If one could afford the spirit stones, almost anything was available.

The two girls, caught up in the lively atmosphere, grew increasingly animated, their faces flushed with excitement as they curiously took in their surroundings.

When they passed a street vendor selling candied haws, Zi Ling's eyes gleamed. She eagerly reached out with her delicate hands, grabbing two skewers of crystal-clear, plump treats. Handing one to Wen Siyue, she turned to Qi Yuan with a playful grin and said, "Big Brother, pay the bill."

Giggling, she pulled Wen Siyue along and continued down the street.

Qi Yuan chuckled, handed the vendor some spirit stones, and followed after them.

Suddenly, he sensed someone trailing them. Extending his spiritual awareness, he quickly identified the figures—it was someone from the Miaoyin Sect. He decided to ignore them, as Zhou Yuan had likely arranged for discreet protection.

"Boss, can these two little pig pottery jars be exchanged for two spirit stones?"

"No, no. The materials alone cost more than that. You all look like nobles, yet you can't even afford three spirit stones?"

Zi Ling's excitement had clearly taken hold of her.

Qi Yuan stepped forward, tossing down three spirit stones. "Here's the payment. Wrap them up."

"Senior, I don't need the pig jar anymore. Please take back the spirit stones."

Wen Siyue hesitated, lightly tugging at Qi Yuan's sleeve.

Qi Yuan smiled, ruffling her neatly tied hair. "From now on, just call me Big Brother like Zi Ling. Consider this a gift."

Zi Ling nodded encouragingly at Wen Siyue.

"Thank you, Big Brother," Wen Siyue finally said with a happy smile.

The vendor, intimidated by Qi Yuan's aura, hesitated before handing over the wrapped items. "Senior, no need to pay. I'll gift them to you."

"A fair trade is a fair trade. Keep the stones."

Taking the package, Qi Yuan led the two girls away.

The rest of the evening was filled with laughter as they watched acrobatics, tasted local delicacies, released river lanterns, and solved lantern riddles. Gradually, the formality between them faded, leaving behind only warmth and joy.

(End Of Chapter)