The Demon Lord Relied on His Imagination to Get Together with the Protagonist. - Chapter 28.1

Chapter 28.1

What Tong Siqing hadn’t expected was that Senior Martial Sister Bai Xian, who should have been released, actually returned.

In her memory, Senior Martial Sister Bai Xian would only return to look for Zhihua much later in the plot, not this early.

Tong Siqing rested her head on her hand, utterly unable to figure out why.

Perhaps the plot has deviated a bit after some of the decisions I made.

However, this wasn’t a big problem; Tong Siqing wasn’t worried at all.

Her main focus now was to smoothly complete the plot and then return to propose marriage to Zhihua again.

Tong Siqing was carefree and lived a leisurely, comfortable life, showing no signs of panic.

She wasn’t anxious, but Shi Zhihua was anxious for her.

The next day, Shi Zhihua deliberately summoned Qing Lin to question her in front of Tong Siqing. Although she was asking for Qing Lin’s opinion, her gaze was suggestively fixed on Tong Siqing.

“What do you think we should do with the people from Xianning?”

Tong Siqing was sipping her porridge. Shi Zhihua watched her eat while asking Qing Lin.

Qing Lin’s gaze flickered between the two of them for a moment, then she deflected the question: “This subordinate does not know.”

Shi Zhihua deliberately tried to prompt Tong Siqing to interject, speaking in her lazy voice: “The Xianning thieves have provoked us repeatedly. After I let them go, they still wouldn’t give up and came back to challenge our Demon Realm. They truly don’t know how to appreciate kindness…”

Shi Zhihua spoke unhurriedly for quite a while. During this time, Tong Siqing never looked up, concentrating on her porridge, as if she hadn’t heard anything.

Qing Lin also followed the Demon Lord’s gaze, watching her.

Shi Zhihua gave Qing Lin a glare, then glanced at Tong Siqing again.

Qing Lin instantly understood and withdrew her gaze.

So, she deliberately exaggerated the severity: “This subordinate believes this matter is too absurd; it is a deliberate insult to the face of our Demon Realm. Now that we have caught them, why not execute them and hang them at the city gate for public display for a hundred days, so they know our Palace of Decadence and Lust is not a place just anyone can enter?”

At these words, Tong Siqing indeed put down her spoon.

Shi Zhihua sat quietly, awaiting her opinion.

Tong Siqing let out a small burp, though it was silent. Because the movement was slight, it looked more like she was momentarily choked.

Shi Zhihua leaned over and patted her back.

Tong Siqing wiped her mouth and realized everyone was looking at her.

Tong Siqing looked confused: “What?”

Qing Lin: “…”

Whether she hadn’t been listening or was deliberately refusing to answer the topic, Qing Lin had no choice but to repeat herself.

Tong Siqing pondered for a moment and nodded.

Shi Zhihua frowned. This was unlike Tong Siqing’s reaction. How could she not intervene to stop her from persecuting people from the Xianning Sect?

Shi Zhihua directly asked her: “Do you think it’s feasible?”

Tong Siqing paused: “Am I to decide?”

Not exactly. Shi Zhihua just wanted Tong Siqing’s opinion; the final decision still rested with her.

However, since the girl had asked such a question, Shi Zhihua couldn’t very well refuse, as it would seem petty, like she was deliberately teasing her.

Shi Zhihua pondered for a moment: “I will consider your suggestion, especially since you are also from Xianning.”

Tong Siqing countered: “Then is the Venerable Lord planning to kill them?”

Shi Zhihua: “…”

Didn’t I just say I hadn’t made up my mind yet?

Shi Zhihua had summoned Qing Lin to act for a long time, only wanting to gauge Tong Siqing’s attitude. Why did Tong Siqing throw the question back at her?

She hadn’t surmised any of the girl’s opinions. Instead, Tong Siqing was urging her to make a decision.

“You were the one who discovered them first,” Shi Zhihua said. “So, I am willing to listen to your opinion. Think it through. If you don’t speak now, you won’t be able to regret it later.”

Shi Zhihua would not allow mutual evasion, so she had to force Tong Siqing to state her position.

This time, Tong Siqing finally couldn’t avoid it, but she didn’t give a direct suggestion. Instead, she said: “I don’t think the Venerable Lord will kill them for now.”

The reason for Tong Siqing’s composure was simple—this scene wasn’t in the established story, so no one would be killed.

So, she slowly finished her porridge, watching Zhihua struggle for a long time, then quietly waited for the outcome.

Shi Zhihua sighed with a smile: “You, really.”

Tong Siqing’s words were impeccable, as if guided by an expert, leaving no room for fault—she said, “I don’t think,” which wasn’t forcing her to make a decision. And “won’t kill them for now” avoided the “kill or not kill” options, providing a longer period for consideration. Overall, her meaning was subtly “advising.”

What else could Shi Zhihua do but respond with a smile?

Qing Lin, who was listening on the side, was also amazed—This is the art of conversation!

She clearly conveyed her meaning, yet it wasn’t awkward at all; it was so tactful that no one could find fault with it.

Qing Lin knew her Demon Lord well and knew she often found fault with details and counter-questioned.

Qing Lin could imagine the Venerable Lord saying:

“Why do you think I won’t kill them?”

“Why shouldn’t I kill them? Give me a reason.”

Perhaps the Venerable Lord would follow up with a sneer:

“Then you understand me quite well.”

Thinking this way, Tong Siqing’s reply was very skillful. Because she said, “I don’t think,” the Venerable Lord couldn’t define the sentence as “presumptuously guessing the Demon Lord’s thoughts,” and thus couldn’t continue to nitpick.

And Tong Siqing’s “won’t kill them for now” subtly offered a period of consideration to the Venerable Lord by giving advice, silently pushing the troubled question aside.

—It could be said that she was very good at defusing the immediate conflict.

Qing Lin wished she could take notes on the spot so she could learn how to answer the Demon Lord’s lethal questions next time.

She looked at Tong Siqing with admiration while sighing.

Who would have thought that the seemingly naive girl was so adept at grasping people’s hearts?

She truly deserved to be the person by the Venerable Lord’s side, and also… Surong’s junior martial sister brought back.

Tong Siqing’s answer greatly satisfied Shi Zhihua. She wasn’t petty and wouldn’t harp on a single issue. After breakfast, the benevolent and magnanimous Demon Lord temporarily imprisoned the people, following Tong Siqing’s implied suggestion.

Bai Xian and the others who were locked up were stunned.

Bai Xian transmitted a message to Ji Siyang: “We weren’t killed.”

Ji Siyang scoffed: “It seems Senior Martial Sister Bai is very eager to lose her head.”

Bai Xian was speechless: “This is the second time I’ve been imprisoned. The first time could be understood as the Demon Lord being too lazy to kill, but the second time, we snuck in right in front of everyone. The Demon Lord has no reason not to kill us. If she shows such great mercy now, what would people say?”

After saying this, Ji Siyang also realized something was wrong. According to common sense, everyone said the Demon Realm Venerable Lord was ruthless, even exceptionally cruel to her own people. It was impossible for her to deliberately let them off the hook.

Most importantly, they had climbed into the Palace of Decadence and Lust right in front of the demons last night. The Demon Lord and her people were clearly informed and had been waiting for a long time.

Deliberately catching them like that meant she couldn’t just brush the matter aside lightly.

Because the more people knew, the more the Demon Lord had to give an explanation. Furthermore, the Xianning Sect and the Demon Realm had always been hostile; they would fight upon meeting in private…

It was impossible to just lightly lock them up!

Ji Siyang’s brows furrowed. He said to Bai Xian: “Last night, I looked over and saw…”

Bai Xian: “Saw what?”

“Siqing, by the Demon Lord’s side…” Ji Siyang was very reluctant to admit this fact but forced himself to say, “There were many people around the Demon Lord, but Siqing was closest to her.”

Of course, Bai Xian knew this. When she was released from the Palace of Decadence and Lust the last time, she saw the Demon Lord forcibly kissing Siqing.

Bai Xian: “What’s so strange about that?”

Indeed, there was nothing to fuss about, especially after Bai Xian returned to Xianning and met the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable. When she came out, many people told her—Saint-Scribe Siqing had once publicly declared that she would marry the Demon Realm Venerable Lord, Shi Zhihua.

When Bai Xian heard the news, it was like a bolt from the blue, and she almost couldn’t stand straight.

How could that be?

How did they end up together?

Moreover, at the time, she had personally asked Ji Siyang, and Ji Siyang had given her the same reply.

Bai Xian had thought Ji Siyang had already accepted this fact.

Ji Siyang explained: “The Celestial Venerable also agreed to the marriage at the time, but when Siqing took the immortal envoy to the Demon Realm, she was injured by the Demon Lord. Later, the Celestial Venerable kept telling the outside world that she was recovering from her injuries, so the marriage had to be postponed indefinitely.”

Bai Xian hadn’t heard this follow-up and was instantly shocked: “Then the Siqing ‘recovering from injuries’ in the Xianning Sect right now…”

Ji Siyang lowered his head, looking very sad: “Based on my understanding of Siqing, I believe it was her in person.”

Bai Xian: “That is to say, the ‘recovering’ Siqing in the Xianning Sect now doesn’t exist at all? The real Siqing is here with the Demon Lord?”

Ji Siyang: “Yes.”

Bai Xian: “…”

The atmosphere suddenly fell silent. Bai Xian didn’t know what to say. The last time she saw the Demon Lord kiss Siqing in front of her, she thought it was a case of forced possession. Who knew…

In such a situation, Siqing was still willing to stay in the Demon Realm?

Was it true love? Or was she compelled?

Bai Xian was completely confused.

“I used to think Siqing was suffering in the Demon Realm,” Ji Siyang leaned against the water wall gloomily. “Now that I think about it, the fact that we were treated this way is likely thanks to her. Perhaps she really likes it here.”

Bai Xian tried to stop him: “Hey, don’t…”

Ji Siyang was independently grieving. He waved his hand: “No need to dissuade me. I’m not sad.”

“No…” Bai Xian sat up straight. “I mean, don’t…”

Ji Siyang leaned against the water wall, looking listless: “I know what you’re going to say. Really, I’ve come to terms with it. If even the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable turns a blind eye, what right do we have to interfere?”

This time, just as his voice fell, a sudden sizzling sound came from the water prison. The restriction on the water wall was instantly triggered, electrocuting the overly melancholy Ji Siyang until smoke was rising from his head.

Black smoke “hissed” from his back. Ji Siyang coughed and quickly moved away from the water wall.

Bai Xian: “…”

She had been about to remind him not to lean against that water wall, or he would be electrocuted.

The water prison had no distinction between morning and night. Those confined inside couldn’t track the days and years. If they were kept for too long, they could develop psychological problems.

Fortunately, Bai Xian had enough self-control and previous experience in the water prison. So, soon after entering, she voluntarily entered a state of deep meditation, comprehending immortal techniques while waiting for the right moment.

But Ji Siyang was different. He was the respected Senior Martial Brother in Xianning, accustomed to being revered. Suddenly finding himself in such a desolate place, he was struggling to adapt.

When he first arrived, he hadn’t realized the seriousness of the situation. It wasn’t until Bai Xian entered deep meditation for days without warning that he had no one to talk to. The continuous sleepless nights left his eyes bloodshot.

“Bai Xian, how long will we be here?” he muttered to himself. “How long until we can return to the Xianning Sect? I suddenly remember there are many unfinished matters. If Xianning is without me, I don’t know what chaos will ensue.”

Bai Xian originally didn’t want to respond, but after thinking about it, she quietly opened her eyes: “This is the Palace of Decadence and Lust, the Demon Realm, which is fundamentally opposed to Xianning. When you’re brought in here, you must be prepared to die.”

Ji Siyang was genuinely panicked. His vision went black for a moment: “What do you mean?”

“This isn’t child’s play where everyone listens to you. You’re here, so calm down,” Bai Xian closed her eyes again, preparing to meditate. “Also, a reminder: Xianning won’t collapse without anyone. Don’t take yourself too seriously.”

Ji Siyang snapped angrily: “Impossible! That’s you!”

Bai Xian took a deep breath: “If you don’t believe me, I can only wish you peace of mind.”

Ji Siyang mumbled: “Impossible, impossible. Master only recently instructed me to handle some matters for him. He’ll be very worried when he finds I’m gone. No, no, if I don’t go back, Xianning will be in chaos!”

Bai Xian: “…Alas.”

Why won’t he listen?

In the past, she had similar thoughts. Who would have thought that upon her return, Xianning continued to operate, completely unaffected? She asked her friends and found that no one had even mentioned asking the Celestial Venerable to rescue her.

And the Celestial Venerable hadn’t paid much attention to the matter either.

She was like an insignificant gust of wind that blew by. No one wanted to hold onto her, and if she were to quietly die in this water prison, no one would even care.

Bai Xian smiled faintly and quickly let go of the thought.

She only lived for the people who genuinely cared about her, such as—Siqing, who had proactively stepped forward to plead with the Demon Lord to release her last time.

In return, she was willing to risk her life to rescue the girl. But now it seemed Siqing was very comfortable staying in the Palace of Decadence and Lust, which reassured her.

As for whether she lived or died, it didn’t really matter. In Xianning, she had to work herself to the bone for those above, but in the Demon Realm, she could be lazy and focus on comprehending the Dao and cultivating.

The Xianning Sect, the most righteous and magnificent place in the world, was filled with lofty figures and refined scholars. Everyone advocated for high moral integrity, and even the sect records were inscribed with the four characters “Noble Sentiments and Far-Reaching Ambition.”

That place was flawless to outsiders. People looked up to the Xianning Sect, saying it was full of great immortals, but Bai Xian felt that it was anything but relaxing; in fact, it was more comfortable to be in the Demon Realm.

Being confined in the water prison of the Palace of Decadence and Lust was actually quite nice. There were no cumbersome formalities to keep up appearances, and no one would disturb her. If she had the energy, she could even comprehend the Dao on her own.

After all, the Demon Lord hadn’t disabled their cultivation, which was quite humane.

Bai Xian was content and peacefully settled down to cultivate in her Sea of Consciousness.

Just as she was about to enter deep meditation, the prison’s restriction was suddenly removed.

“…Siqing?” Bai Xian was slightly puzzled. “What are you doing here?”

It wasn’t just Tong Siqing; the Demon Lord, Shi Zhihua, was also with her.

The Demon Lord was stunningly beautiful, with a luxurious and soft countenance, red eyes, and black hair. When she looked in their direction, her eyes were slightly upturned. When she looked at Tong Siqing beside her, her expression carried a hint of subtle tenderness amidst her arrogant and unrestrained demeanor, mesmerizing and captivating at the same time.

As she walked, her black and red robes with dark patterns fluttered impressively. Shi Zhihua followed Tong Siqing closely, watching her with a calm expression, waiting for her to make a move, as if expecting her to make a decision.

Tong Siqing semi-squatted in front of Senior Martial Sister Bai Xian, looking up and murmuring: “Senior Martial Sister, you’ve suffered.”

Bai Xian’s eyes softened: “It’s alright.”

Tong Siqing guessed she was about to ask why, so she proactively explained: “The Venerable Lord said she would grant me any request, so I came.”

“Silly girl, why are you thinking of me?”

Bai Xian looked at the girl in front of her with tearful eyes. Although Tong Siqing was the Saint-Scribe of the immortals, she never had any of those aloof airs. When gazed upon by those beautiful, clear, round eyes, one’s heart would soften inch by inch, like drinking sweet dew and fine wine, feeling slightly intoxicated as emotions swelled.

She met her gaze, observing her closely. She saw that the girl’s hair was still styled in that curved hanging bun, with auspicious cloud tassels reflecting a solemn light, and needle-like tassels moving with exquisite grace… On her, it was beautiful, unlike anything mortal.

Bai Xian wanted to reach out and stroke her hair, but then heard the Demon Lord cough beside her.

Clearly, Shi Zhihua’s face was not looking good.

She hadn’t thought she would ever have a moment where lust clouded her judgment, but reality proved otherwise her agreement to come to the water prison today was a complete setup.

Tong Siqing looked pure, bright, and kind, yet she was impossible to guard against.

When the girl smilingly fed her grapes, she had already forgotten what reason was. In just a few words, she was completely won over.

When Tong Siqing softly hugged her and vaguely said she had a request, her mind impulsively thought it was “those” matters and she happily agreed.

After straightening her clothes, the girl said the request was—to visit her Senior Martial Sister in the water prison.

Shi Zhihua: “…”

She almost ground her teeth into dust, restraining herself from going back on her word.

Now that she was here, Shi Zhihua immediately regretted it upon seeing the affectionate scene between the two martial sisters.

This Bai Xian is a complete eyesore.

Indeed, this Bai Xian should not have been kept in the Demon Realm. If she stayed, Tong Siqing would constantly be distracted thinking about the water prison, and she might even be thinking of someone else during their intimate moments.

Shi Zhihua’s face darkened little by little.

She wholeheartedly agreed with her previous decision to release Bai Xian. Bai Xian is a disaster if she stays!

Arrogant as Shi Zhihua was, she didn’t think Bai Xian could be a threat to her, but her possessiveness was strong. Coupled with Tong Siqing’s scattered thoughts, in “certain moments,” even if Tong Siqing briefly thought of someone else, no matter who it was, Shi Zhihua would be unhappy.

But she couldn’t kill the girl either…

Thinking this way, she could only release her.

“Have you seen her and are you reassured now?” Shi Zhihua stared coldly at the scene, asking. “If you’ve looked enough, then come over here.”

Tong Siqing nodded. In fact, she hadn’t been “unassured” from the beginning, as she had foreseen the heavenly destiny: Senior Martial Sister Bai Xian would achieve great things in the future and could not die young. All the suffering she was enduring now was laying the foundation for her future.

The reason Tong Siqing asked to see Senior Martial Sister Bai Xian was also to see how much the plot had deviated.

According to the original trajectory, the Senior Martial Sister should have been quite compatible with Zhihua.

But…

Zhihua and the Senior Martial Sister didn’t seem friendly. Their eyes were full of mutual hostility.

Shi Zhihua: “Are you not coming over?”

“Oh.” Tong Siqing dusted off her clothes and obediently returned to her side.

Seeing someone visiting, Ji Siyang instantly lit up, calling Tong Siqing’s name: “Siqing, did you come to see your Senior Martial Brother?”

Tong Siqing didn’t speak. She genuinely hadn’t thought of her Senior Martial Brother, only caring about the plot and coming to see Senior Martial Sister Bai Xian.

And she wasn’t good at lying. Unable to offer a pleasant fib to cover it up, she could only remain silent.

Shi Zhihua took in the scene completely.

Good. Since Tong Siqing wasn’t attached to her Senior Martial Brother, his existence was irrelevant.

The most important thing was to release Bai Xian.

Shi Zhihua stood majestically, speaking with arrogance: “Bai Xian, I am feeling merciful today, so I will allow you to leave the Palace of Decadence and Lust. Go back and rally your rescue troops.”

Bai Xian: “???”

What is wrong with you, Demon Lord? You brought me back for good reason, so why are you letting me go back?

Bai Xian stood frozen. Ji Siyang, however, was delighted and thanked her: “We thank the Demon Lord.”

Shi Zhihua slightly frowned, looking down at Bai Xian with contempt.

Bai Xian was still somewhat reluctant to leave. No one cared if she went back, and it didn’t affect anything if she didn’t. She had already accepted death, and if she stayed, she could still comprehend the Dao in her Sea of Consciousness and consolidate her cultivation. But if she went back she would have to be the busy and uncomplaining Senior Martial Sister again.

Bai Xian hesitated, not really wanting to go. She preferred to stay here.

Shi Zhihua: “???”

What does this mean? Shouldn’t she be expressing her gratitude?

Shi Zhihua: “…Still not leaving?”

Tong Siqing: “Actually, staying a few more days is fine too.”

“Absolutely not!”

Shi Zhihua finally understood. Tong Siqing’s behavior toward her today was entirely to see Bai Xian!

The girl’s reluctance to let Bai Xian leave directly touched Shi Zhihua’s red line. She was most worried that Tong Siqing would constantly miss Bai Xian, and it turned out to be true—she actually didn’t want the other woman to leave.

“If she stays, will you be distracted all day, constantly thinking about coming to see her?” Shi Zhihua pressed Tong Siqing’s shoulder, raising an eyebrow slightly. “Was I right?”

Tong Siqing subtly argued: “I wasn’t.”

Shi Zhihua didn’t believe her. In short, she disliked Bai Xian and was determined to make her leave.

“Guards, escort the Xianning Sect’s Senior Martial Sister back,” Shi Zhihua’s tone was flat, as if disposing of an unwanted object.

Bai Xian was stunned, unsure how to feel.

If it means seeing Senior Martial Sister leave, then fine. To stabilize Zhihua’s anger first, Tong Siqing decided to let the person go.

Tong Siqing moved aside, making way for her Senior Martial Sister to leave.

Senior Martial Brother Ji Siyang also stood up and started to walk out with her, but he was blocked by a servant.

Ji Siyang: “???”

What does this mean?

Ji Siyang looked at Shi Zhihua in confusion: “Is the Venerable Lord not letting people go?”

“I am,” Shi Zhihua’s gaze swept around the water prison. She noticed most of the disciples who came this time were quite attractive, so she casually released them all: “These people, let them all go too.”

The disciples there exchanged glances, hesitant about whether to thank her.

Ji Siyang’s expression turned serious. Fearing the Demon Lord would change her mind, he quietly urged the stunned disciples: “Hurry up and leave!”

The disciples quickly followed Senior Martial Sister Bai Xian out.

Ji Siyang breathed a sigh of relief, escorting everyone outside.

Halfway out, just about to leave the water prison, a water barrier suddenly blocked him, separating the inside and outside worlds.

Ji Siyang: “???”

What’s going on?

The departing disciples all turned to look at him: “Senior Martial Brother!”

The Demon Lord, Shi Zhihua, unhurriedly interjected: “I said I would let them go, but I didn’t say I would let you go.”

Ji Siyang: “???”

Why?

Because Shi Zhihua had just observed that Tong Siqing was most concerned about Bai Xian. This Senior Martial Brother in white robes wasn’t as close to her.

And she couldn’t let everyone go; otherwise, where would the Demon Lord’s dignity be?

If she had to appease Tong Siqing’s emotions, Shi Zhihua would definitely choose to release people, and specifically the one Tong Siqing cared about the most, Bai Xian. As for the others, they didn’t matter much; if they could be released, they were released as an afterthought.

The reason for keeping Ji Siyang was that she needed to hold a hostage in the Palace of Decadence and Lust.

This hostage, besides the Xianning Sect’s Senior Martial Brother, would not be suitable.

Firstly, the Senior Martial Brother had a certain status, making him a decent bargaining chip. Secondly, the Senior Martial Brother was resilient and wouldn’t get sick easily. Not getting sick meant Tong Siqing wouldn’t worry about him. Since he wouldn’t die, he could just be kept in the water prison.

Shi Zhihua said: “Go back and report to your Celestial Venerable. Tell him I have kept your Senior Martial Brother as a hostage. If he wants to redeem him, he must show sincerity.”

Ji Siyang felt as if a bucket of cold water had been poured over his head; his heart completely chilled.

Tong Siqing went over to comfort him: “It’s alright, Senior Martial Brother. My father… Our Celestial Venerable is profoundly benevolent and generous. He will surely redeem you as soon as possible. Don’t worry.”

“Yes, yes,” Ji Siyang staggered a bit, his steps unsteady, almost falling. He muttered to himself, “Our Celestial Venerable is kind and righteous. He will definitely save me. Xianning can’t function without me. My Master… will definitely find a way for me.”

Bai Xian looked into the water prison with a complicated expression, thinking that after this separation, she didn’t know when they would meet again.

She performed a farewell salute and left.

Tong Siqing waved at Bai Xian: “Goodbye, Senior Martial Sister.”

Bai Xian: “Goodbye.”

Upon returning to the Xianning Sect, Bai Xian told the disciples to rest first, then went to see the Celestial Venerable alone.

Since this trip was somewhat unsanctioned, she couldn’t be too public. Bai Xian first had the disciples of Mount Fuyun send a message, and then went to see the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable near dusk.

The Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable was not out today, so he wasn’t wearing his stiff silver robe. Instead, he wore a soft, shimmering bright silver silk robe with moon patterns.

He held a scroll in one hand, his black hair gathered low on his chest, his expression calm and aloof.

The Hall of Fuyun was brightly lit, but there were no visible candles. It must have been illuminated by some rare treasure. The entire hall had almost no dark corners, so bright it nearly surpassed daylight.

The Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable’s jade mask reflected a cold light; he had specially put it on because he had a visitor.

Bai Xian had always wondered about one thing: how could the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable, with such a cold and rigid personality, raise a clingy and passionate daughter like Siqing?

Now she understood. With such a cold and strict father, Siqing would be lonely enough to go down the mountain to find other disciples, to cling to other people.

Alas.

Bai Xian knelt and bowed: “Greetings to the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable.”

“Dispense with the formalities,” the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable put down the scroll. His voice was like it came from the icy peak of a mountain, carrying an aloof chill and a faint echo. He asked, “Did you go to the Palace of Decadence and Lust?”

Bai Xian: “Reporting to the Celestial Venerable, Senior Martial Brother Ji Siyang led me and a few disciples to the Palace of Decadence and Lust, intending to rescue Saint-Scribe Siqing, but we were unlucky. We were caught red-handed by the Demon Lord as soon as we entered. However, the Demon Lord did not mistreat us, only keeping us in the water prison for a few days before releasing us.”

The Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable gave a faint “Mm.”

“But the Demon Lord said she would keep one person as a hostage, so… Senior Martial Brother Ji Siyang did not return with us,” Bai Xian’s confidence waned as she spoke, her voice growing quieter. In the end, she spoke with great difficulty: “Our actions were reckless, bringing shame to Xianning. I beg the Celestial Venerable to forgive us.”

The ancient book was somewhat worn. The thread holding the pages together had a few loose ends. As the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable listened, he used his long, pale fingers to hold the book, skillfully repairing the ancient scroll.

The Hall of Fuyun was silent. He concentrated on this task with a composed expression, seemingly unconcerned by what Bai Xian was saying, not angry… but also showing no intention of sending anyone to rescue the hostage.

Bai Xian was momentarily lost in thought.

Looking at the Celestial Venerable’s demeanor, she felt as if she were seeing her own capture by the Demon Realm years ago. Perhaps people had pleaded for her, but their pleas had sunk into the ocean, vanishing with the wind.

The Celestial Venerable was benevolent and cared for the world, but his concern seemed to be only for the vast and abstract “world.” He truly cared about the “world” as a whole but would not extend his care to a specific, insignificant individual.

That’s right. The Celestial Venerable had been a great power since the Xianning Sect’s inception. Bai Xian thought he might have lived for thousands or millions of years, already devoid of external joy or sorrow. The trivial matter she had just mentioned was probably, to him, just like a random, inconsequential cloud passing over the Hall of Fuyun.

How could the Celestial Venerable send people to rescue him?

He was so indifferent about whether to bring Siqing home. How could he possibly care about a common disciple?

Bai Xian knew she couldn’t bring herself to voice the Demon Lord’s demand. Even if she did, the Celestial Venerable wouldn’t give any response.

“This disciple has bothered the Celestial Venerable,” Bai Xian bowed deeply again. “This disciple takes her leave.”

Just as Bai Xian was about to depart, a question, almost a whisper, suddenly came from within the hall.

“How is Siqing these days?”

Because the voice was so soft, Bai Xian almost thought she was hallucinating. She looked up at the person on the dais and saw that the Celestial Venerable had put away the scroll and was looking down at her.

Being stared at by those pale gray eyes felt like gazing upon the desolate ruins of an age long past, which was startling.

Bai Xian was taken aback and replied with some apprehension: “Saint-Scribe Siqing is well.”

There was a long silence.

Bai Xian cautiously looked up and saw the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable still there, unmoving. She couldn’t read his expression or his feelings.

For a moment, Bai Xian thought he was about to speak, but after a long wait, the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable still made no comment.

Finally, she only saw the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable wave his hand, telling her to withdraw.

Bai Xian bowed and was finally able to leave.

When she emerged, the sky outside was pitch black. Because the hall had been so brightly lit, she was slow to adjust to the darkness outside.

Her vision was blurry as she walked.

As she was walking, she accidentally bumped into someone.

“I apologize.”

“My apologies, fellow immortal.”

Bai Xian looked up and almost lost her color in shock the person in front of her was the subordinate of the Demon Lord she had seen in the Demon Realm that day.

Only, the other person was wearing a white robe today, which felt a bit jarring.

“I am Surong,” Surong cupped her hands. “Greetings, fellow immortal. Are you alright?”

Bai Xian: “I’m, I’m, I’m alright…”

She was just a bit astonished.

Surong was here to see the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable. These past few days, she had been thinking it over and over and still felt uneasy. She had to consult the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable to put her mind at ease.

“Fellow immortal, are you going in just like that?”

Bai Xian was even more surprised to see her about to enter without any announcement. It was well-known that disciples had to go through strict, multi-layered announcements and approvals to see the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable. Just to see him today, she had to wait several hours for approval.

Was this subordinate of the Demon Lord planning to just walk in without any preparation?

Bai Xian was certain the other person hadn’t sent an announcement beforehand because she had asked the disciple on duty at the Hall of Fuyun, and the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable had not received any guests today; she was the first.

So, was this Demon Lord’s subordinate just going to force her way in?

Surong smiled politely at her: “The Celestial Venerable said some time ago that when I come, there’s no need for an announcement; I can go straight in.”

“Some time ago”—specifically at the point when Saint-Scribe Siqing went to the Demon Realm.

On the surface, the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable seemed to have a hands-off approach with his daughter, but he was actually very concerned. For example, recently, Surong often received “greetings” from the Saint-Scribe Celestial Venerable. They seemed to be about trivial matters, but in reality, everything was subtly inquiring about how his daughter was doing lately.

Because Tong Siqing ate and slept with the Demon Lord, Surong couldn’t frequently contact her. Furthermore, with the Demon Lord’s extremely possessive personality, Surong wouldn’t dare to ask for specific details. She could only placate him each time with a simple “She is well.”

Surong, the master of placation and smoothing things over, was also helpless.

After saying goodbye to Bai Xian, Surong walked in with a long face.

At the same time, Tong Siqing looked at the Demon Lord in front of her with some grievance.

Tong Siqing looked at her with pleading eyes, which seemed to hold a pool of water: “Master, I can’t wear it.”

Shi Zhihua was beautifully dressed, leaning lazily to one side, a small golden snake wrapped around her finger.

She said: “You can.”

Tong Siqing shook her head: “I can’t.”

Shi Zhihua: “No, I think you definitely can.”

Tong Siqing was extremely embarrassed: “Can I not wear it?”

Shi Zhihua snorted: “What do you think?”

Tong Siqing: QvQ

Shi Zhihua smiled and said: “If I say you can, then you can.”

The item in her hand, which could temporarily be called “undergarment,” was something Tong Siqing had never seen. If she had to find a similar garment to compare it to, it would be the top worn by the exotic dancer she saw last time.

Only, the dancer’s outfit… seemed to have more substantial material than the one in her hand.

Tong Siqing lowered her head mournfully, looking at the pitifully light piece of clothing in her hand, on the verge of tears.

Who knew Zhihua had returned somewhat angry today and couldn’t be appeased no matter what she did?

It wasn’t until later that Zhihua pinched her chin and asked: “Are you trying to please me with an ulterior motive?”

Tong Siqing, upon hearing this, naturally had to refute it. She quickly denied: “No, really!”

Shi Zhihua then said: “You asked me to grant your request today, and I did. How are you going to repay me?”

To make her happy, Tong Siqing didn’t think much at the time and naturally responded: “I can also grant the Venerable Lord’s request.”

Shi Zhihua’s voice was low and slow, seemingly carrying heat: “Anything?”

Tong Siqing instinctively felt something was wrong but still answered stubbornly: “Anything.”

And then, Shi Zhihua smiled.

After that, Tong Siqing was left staring blankly at her while holding this piece of clothing.

Shi Zhihua: “Why are you looking at me? Put it on. Didn’t you agree?”

Tong Siqing’s ears were entirely red. She whispered an explanation: “When I was in Xianning, I never saw a garment of this style. This kind of clothing is too, too…”

She couldn’t think of how to describe it, so she said—it’s too little to keep out the cold.

“You won’t freeze in my bedroom,” Shi Zhihua appeared to lean back lazily, but her eyes were intensely focused on her, never moving away. “If you haven’t seen it, I’ll broaden your horizons.”

Tong Siqing: Wuwuwuwu.

In Xianning, everyone’s clothing style was uniform. Except for those who went out on travels, everyone wore plain white disciple robes. It was said to showcase the unity of the immortal sect, so even casual wear was not allowed. Many people spent their entire lives in Xianning without ever wearing any other color.

Tong Siqing was one of those people.

Before coming to the Demon Realm, although she had many clothes, the styles were conservative.