《Lust, like Vengeance, Demands Red》 PROLOGUE Yu Yuan was robbed from her mother''s arms and sold for an orphanage owned by the righteous sect of light, At the age of eight. She was used and manipulated for years, and Eventually, she was chosen to assume a position of influence as a puppet: to tower maiden. While being taught how to act, she learned how the world around her works. The strong is free and unrestrained, the weak flock together, and the stupid are cannon fodders. "What greater good? What having wealth after one''s death!? Nothing but Nonsense!" she raged. but as a measure to keep her in control, she wasn''t trained in any kind of cultivation. and she was watched all the time. for forty years, she couldn''t break free finally, she was charged with a made-up crime and was sent to the bottommost of the tower she lived in. In the night before her execution, ironically she found a demonic spell on the so righteous sect''s tower of sanctity. Yu Yan read it and laughed. Laughed with unrestrained joy and happiness in her voice. ''give your soul away, and live again in the flesh.'' "to live again, one needs to become a demon? Ha! After living a lifetime as the weak, being trampled when they wanted to trample, being touched when they wanted to touch, living dependant on another''s whim. no one will ever bind me again." Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.Yu Yan got ahold of her dagger, and plunged into her heart and screamed in madness "TODAY I DIE AS A LAMB, TO LIVE AGAIN AS A DEMON!" ---------- Uncle Arthur, you say he already has chosen a disciple?! Elder Huang had already said he was going to choose me! Please go talk to him! a veiled girl covered from head to toe exclaimed to the middle-aged man. Arthur sighed, the answered, "right away, Young lady." ---------- "Elder Huang, the steward of the Cheng family is in the entrance." a servant report. Elder Huang who was sitting on the sofa frowned. and mumbled "Cheng family... that prude girl huh." he pointed at the counter in the corner of his room. "take that box to him as an apology, you don''t need to say more." the servant recognized the neckless on the box. and suddenly paled. "E-elder, that''s neckless that was together with the old matron''s body at the bottom of the tower." Elder Huang squinted at the boy and said. "You just lost your position for speaking more than a necessary boy, now take the box and do as you''re told." the servant was ashen-faced but did as told. Only a Devil Can Bet Ones, Own Soul. "TODAY I DIE AS A LAMB, TO LIVE AGAIN AS A DEMON!" With the final chant and a dagger on the heart, Yu Yan fell to her knees, staring fixedly at her blue pearl neckless transforming in front of her, once completely scarlet, it fell back to the blue color, and everything used for the spell burned to nothing. Seeing this, Yu Yan smiled weakly and fell backward. "Leaving my very own existence to luck, maybe I am already half a devil" ---------------------- "I''m sorry young lady, I tried but elder Huang didn''t even bother to come himself. His apprentice came on his behalf with an apology gift. I''m sorry for this servant incapacity." A middle-aged man bowed while reporting. "But didn''t elder Huang guaranteed? Now he''s saying he chosen someone else?! Is a man''s word just dog barks now?!" The veiled girl retorted in anger. Old man Arthur, steward for the military Chang family looked at his young lady and sighed. She''s virtuous but too inexperienced. As the master said, her ideal will collide with reality, and she''ll be dealt a heavy blow. "Young Lady is certainly the most virtuous and righteous, and naturally the best choice elder Huang would have for a personal disciple. But Lady Wang Lei gu appeared as a dark horse and as the kingdom''s most doted upon young princess she is more appealing to elder Huang and Light Sect''s eyes." Zhi Rui looked at steward dumbfounded. Lady Wang? Wang Lei gu!? The one who won''t stop her scandals from spreading but instead having pride in them?! I never revealed my face in public, not one part of my body touched a man''s skin. Eighteen years of devotion to the beliefs of the light sect, to be replaced by material benefit and politics? Didn''t the god of light disdained such acts!? Suddenly the memories of her father''s words, the general of the kingdom. Stating she was too naive and that this world is run by men, not gods. appeared in her head. She suddenly felt lost, all she did was for naught. Just like everything her dad spoke to her, benefits spoke louder than any virtue. It doesn''t matter how much you''re willing to do, you''re only valued by the benefit you offer. "Uncle Arthur please prepare the carriage we are going back." She said. The old steward looked at her and sighed profoundly. Having everything she needed since young, suffering this kind of set back at this age will shock more than if she were to be younger. The old steward delivered the box he got from elder Huang''s apprentice as an apology to her and went to prepare the carriage. The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there. She observed the box in her hands, a beautiful delicate blue pearl neckless laid in. She walked to the side where there was an old village well, she extended her hands above it, but couldn''t throw it down, eighteen years of faith couldn''t be thrown away in a matter of instants. And elder Huang said it belonged to the late tower maiden, who passed a week ago. the second most powerful figure in the entirety of the sect. "Maybe I could enter as an ordinary disciple and conquer the ranks, it''ll take a longer time and more struggle but it''ll be more rewarding." Thinking like this, Zhi Rui smiled with red-rimmed eyes and put the neckless on herself. --------- Arthur heard a commotion while ordering the soldier to prepare, looking back he saw his Young lady vomiting beside an old well, with both hands on her head kneeling on the ground with a vivid blood red neckless on her neck. "Young lady, what happened?!" He rushed through the curious people and reached her side. He was going to use inner energy to see her state, but he knows she won''t even allow her father to check her, so he hesitated. He didn''t know, the second he wasted, took his virtuous young lady away, and gave way to something else to crawl back. Suddenly Zhi Rui stopped and looked up in a daze, breathing deeply she got up and started to look around as if she was seeing the sky for the first time. "Ha-haha haHAha HAHAHAHAHAHAH!" She started laughing, laughing uproariously. Arthur couldn''t understand the situation, he could only blame it in the shock she received for being rejected. Yet the sight of her in such wild joy and almost hysterical laugh made the hairs on his body stood up. The chill scared him, and he wanted to stop it. So he screamed. "Young lady Zhi Rui!" At last, the laughter stopped and silence prevailed. But Arthur didn''t feel relief, his lady directed her gaze at him. And while he couldn''t see her eyes due to the veil, her mouth and neck were visible and the most stunning unrestrained smile was showing on her face. A chill crawled on his back again, and he got agitated. "Y-Young lady, I''m sorry this servant was worried and was presumptuous is young lady fine? Do you need a medicinal palet?" Zhi Rui nodded and added, "Uncle Arthur, let''s depart as soon as possible. I disdain to stay here longer then I need." She said so while getting into her own carriage. "Understood Young Lady." Arthur felt restless towards the Young lady, but he did not know why. Perhaps it''s his age messing with his head. Knowing Thyself The light sect is six hundred kilometers away in the south. The General manor has the White elk horse, they can reach two hundred kilometers per hour in flat areas. But due to the mountainous road, it was a half day travel. They were already halfway back. Arthur as leading the convoy ahead leaving Zhi Rui carriage in the middle. Inside her carriage, Zhi Rui is calmly looking through the windows. "Zhi Rui? what a beautiful name. Eighteen years old? so much potential." She thinks to herself. Zhi Rui smiled and closed her eyes to see her inner self. Learning how from her new memories. Seeing a silver crystal-like stone between her eyebrows and another of the same color, but rougher between her breast. she felt relief. "She only reached the very first step, forming a core to connect with the world. I have to undo nothing and can go on freely from here. But she knows too little about cultivation. She wanted to learn everything at light sect, pitiful girl. Reaching home I have to study thoroughly." Zhi Rui smiled in pity as if the one who took the girl''s future away wasn''t herself. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw a mirror, she didn''t notice before. She was too excited about coming back to life and didn''t look around her. But now she wants to see herself in full. She stood in front of the mirror, reached for her dress and tore it all off in one pull. Seeing the person on the mirror Zhi Rui couldn''t help but laugh again, with such outstanding beauty. Did she dared to hide it? for the sake of virtue? What a sin. Indeed, when one is young, one is also stupid. "taller than most girls. At the height of the average healthy male. Long ebony hair making her emerald eye shine with vigor. A natural slightly red lips. Healthy white and smooth skin, plentiful breast a little more than most women have at this age. Heart-shaped bottom. If there was one defect it''s the fact that she ate too little. And only vegetables, to avoid impurities making her thin. But you can see clearly how sinful this body will look as soon as you get more food in." Without wearing anything, Zhi Rui walked back and seated on the carriage dangling one leg above the other. I gave away my soul, for the mere chance to capture another person''s conscience and take the body. Luckily the little girl wore the neckless one week after my death, and my mind was still strong. Though, still, if it were an elder or somebody strong-willed, I would''ve ceased to exist. Zhi Rui suddenly started laughing, shaking all over in complete mockery "HuhaHAHAHAHA! Stupid girl! You had every option to choose from, and you still chose slavery! Still chose to live as a chained mummy! But don''t worry. Now I am Zhi Rui, and I will do whatever I please, and enjoy life in your stead!" Eight years of being trained and used as a whore. Before they decided I''m brainwashed and beautiful enough to be used as a puppet. Forty years chained in that tower doing their biddings. The position of tower maiden and the bits of cultivation related information gave me hope. So I endured. Just when I realized I was too old and decided to the most damage possible, they took me down. Though she was gnashing her teeth, the world outside the window of the carriage gave her joy, and lust unabashed and insatiable lust, for everything that she never had, and everything that she can possibly obtain. The desire to eat the best food and enjoy the most beautiful things. She had nothing before, now she wants everything. Calming down, Zhi Rui started to think of her situation. As someone who had studied and observed a lot of power struggle for forty years. She naturally can see more than a young girl. The youngest princess of the empire appearing out of nowhere and taking her place it''s of course part of a bigger scheme. This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. She started with her dad. Cheng Feng yuan the young general who come back victorious with big merits. His name is on everybody''s mouths. If he wants to raise his power, now is the best time. So he sent his daughter to the Light sect to be an elder''s personal disciple. Making his position on the kingdom more strong. "Not that" Zhi Rui mumbled and shook her head. Too simple, Too direct. It''s too easy, almost an act of common sense. His target is in another place. He just came back with merits, he gained the right to request something from the emperor himself. But the general didn''t go to the palace and did not ask for anything. Only directly sending his daughter to light sect. The emperor wouldn''t want his general to have a position with a strong outsider. He rather sent his publicly most doted upon daughter to the enemy, than allow his general to have a leg outside the country''s control. This way he''s making the enemy think they have an advantage because of his daughter. and he''s also forcing General Feng Yuan to seek power within the kingdom. Zhu Rui looked out the windows while pondering. Rather than foreseeing this move from the emperor, General probably just sent me there, if the emperor made his move then he would spread the news making justified to be daring with his request. And the emperor will have to grant it. If the emperor did not make his move, then he would get a daughter supported by the light sect, besides irritating the emperor a little he wouldn''t lose either way. But what daring request will ensure his power, and guarantee the emperor won''t move against him in the future? Zhi Rui was taping on her windowsill, suddenly she stopped, paralyzed remembering her image on the mirror, she smirked As her father, he naturally saw his daughter''s face. It does not matter to whom he offers my hand to. As long they see one image of me, they''d accept. This together with his right to a request. He can marry me to the most favored prince and with the generalissimo''s support, the prince will certainly receive the throne thus assuring the Cheng family''s future. Zhi Rui starting taping the windowsill and spoke in humor. "hm, so daddy wants to use this beautiful chess piece, unfortunately, I don''t see how that will benefit myself. If the prince is not a cut sleeve he''s sure to demand immediate marriage which will cage me in the palace, getting outside only with permission and a few times a week. even if he doesn''t demand marriage, an engagement would put me under the eyes of the Imperial family. The marriage has its perks but it would take all my time" Over the window, she could see the sun setting and the southwest tribes. The convoy is reaching the capital. "I need to get strong. I''ll need the time and the resources of this kingdom, so I can leave here and roam freely. Once I become strong enough, it won''t be too late for uprooting the light sect." Since the emperor did his move, he will summon father soon, might even be tomorrow. No time to convince him without making him alarmed. I''ll have to do it today. "Young lady we reached the south gate, please be patient soon we''ll be home," Arthur said from outside By the time they entered the city, Zhi Rui already knew what to do. Even though it is an extreme risk and will bring the ruthless general fury. She was smiling like a child. Nonsense Often Delay Ones Own Life. Reaching the streets of the city, Arthur pondered. "Young lady was been silent the in the whole way back. Maybe it was too much for her." Remembering the way she was before coming back. He felt the chill again. Even though he and his wife have cared for her since she was a baby, the restlessness of his heart only grew. "Uncle Arthur, when we pass the main street, please stop I want to buy some things." Arthur was startled by the sudden command. "Young lady please, the Master told us to go directly to the light sect and go home directly." "I''ll go anyway uncle, either you come along or you don''t." Arthur felt stifled, he couldn''t touch the young lady casually, therefore he can not force her. But the truth is, he never needed use force with her, so he was caught unprepared. Normally any word from her dad is like a decree for her. She always held respect and awe for the general. Even though they didn''t meet often, as the general would stay on the front lines for three to four years and come back for a month, and even then, he would manage the mansion and the properties of the Cheng family. Leaving no time for contact between father and daughter. She never disobeyed half a word. But instead of thinking too much, Arthur just accompanied her. He actually felt happy she wanted to go shopping, maybe she can be more like a normal young woman from now on? Two hours after, they reached the mansion. Arthur went directly to the main quarters to report. Whilst Zhi Rui went to her quarters to examine the things she bought. The maids felt weird by the amiable greetings. Usually, the miss is very rigid and serious about it. Zhi Rui went alone she had no personal maid. The old Zhi Rui believed one has to do everything by yourself, as using servants are frivolous and lazy. not the god''s way of life. "Such a naive girl, half of the things she did was seeking praise from her dad, the other half is trying to please light sect. though she was raised by uncle Arthur''s wife. With her dad''s way to deal with her, it isn''t weird she ended up like this." She thought to herself. While Zhi Rui called the servants to quickly dust her room, General Cheng Feng Yuan was receiving the detailed report. --------- Hearing about Zhi Rui being replaced by the princess, Feng yuan didn''t show any reaction. Even with the detailed description of his daughter weird laugh and vomiting, he did not blink. Only when he heard she carried on with her wishes despite told her father''s order, did he showed an amused expression. Feng yuan didn''t tell him off for the delay, he only told Arthur to summon Zhi Rui. Thinking she was still in the entrance of the manor eager to see her father like always, Arthur went to call her. Hearing from the maid she went directly to her room. He got someone to call her, then waited by the master''s quarter''s door. Her weird behavior kept scratching at his stomach. ---------- After dusting her room, Zhi Rui started changing clothes. Just as she took out her dress, she heard the summon from the door. Knowing it was the new little servant she smiled. "Come in" The little boy didn''t think and opened the door. Only to see the naked young lady smiling coldly at him, he stood in a daze. Suddenly he threw his head on the ground and start begging for forgiveness. Zhi Rui not covering herself at all, chuckled."Wait outside until I''m done, and stop kowtowing." "Y-yes young lady." stammered the boy Done dressing. She met the horror-stricken eleven-year-old boy She looked at him coldly. "The maids heard all of your pleadings. They''re probably wondering what you did wrong. What punishment do you think the general will bestow on you and your family, little thing?" The boy grew pale, his legs gave in. he mumbled, "B-but Young lady is the one who told me to come in." "You can try and tell people that." The boy had tears streaming down in despair. He knew there was no such way. This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. "I can let you go, boy, on the condition that you''ll do what I tell you to, regardless of what it is. understood?" The boy suddenly stood up with vigor, nodding nonstop. If he didn''t, she will kill him. Even if he doesn''t care for himself, he cares for his family. "Then listen well. five minutes after I enter the main quarters you attract the maids and Aunt Xue away from there. Use whatever means you want." Zhi Rui instructed. "A-aunt Xue?" the boy asked. "Uncle Arthur''s wife, the one managing the maids?" Zhi Rui said "Y-yes!" the boy said, then went away. Zhi Rui saw the boy away with cold green eyes. The threat of death often brings out people''s hidden potential. She laughed. ---------- Cheng Feng Yuan felt amused again at his daughter''s behavior, it''s been fifteen minutes he called her and she hasn''t come in yet. Though he can hear she giggling with her aunt near the entrance. He doesn''t know why she''s doing it, but it''s amusing that she''s throwing this passive/aggressive tantrum toward him. "Master, Young lady is here." Before he could acknowledge and tell her to enter, She barged in. "Thank you for the door uncle Arthur." she smiled brightly. But no one answered. She was wearing a black dress that reached her knees, with sleeves that ended on her elbows, leaving just one long piece of cloth hanging, her arms and legs were left bare. She made a single braid with her ebony hair leaving it hanging on her chest. together with her emerald green eyes and slightly rich red lips. She looked skimpy yet decent. "It does not matter who, man or woman both would be moved by her." Feng Yuan thought. Soon he composed himself and sent Arthur to stay outside. Feng Yuan saw she didn''t sit nor offer to serve him tea by his side as usual. He frowned and said. "I see that being replaced by Wang Lei Gu has shocked you, seeing as you are showing half your body and lacking respect towards your father." But she didn''t answer instead, she asked rhetorically "Father always brings uncle Arthur to the front line, it could be said he''s the most useful, wise and trustable, aide Father has. Right?" Feng Yuan frowned deeper at her pointless question. But before he answered, with his inner core evolved to the fourth level he could hear a commotion and the maids including Arthur''s wife going away. But he saw Arthur stood at the door and knew it was nothing serious. Though she saw him pause, she didn''t ask why. Instead, she carried on "Aunt and uncle have taken care of me since mother died when I was a child. It can be said that I owe them my life. Right, dad?" Feng Yuan was fed up "Did being defeated by someone who''s better, messed with your head? Stop saying nonsense." Instead of seeing her hurt expression. He saw her cold emotionless face. "Uncle Arthur can you please come in for a second, I need you to attest to something for my father." Zhi Rui spoke aloud. Once he entered Zhi Rui called Arthur to sit at the square tea table. "No young lady, I don''t want to intrude." "Please sit, Uncle Arthur." Zhi Rui insisted. Even with his restlessness growing by the second, Arthur still sat down. Feng Yuan was watching, trying to understand his daughter. Suddenly when Zhi Rui was passing behind Arthur she extended her hands and two square pieces of papers glued to each of Arthur''s ear. Before he could understand anything, the horrible pain came from both sides and everything went black. As Arthur stopped moving Zhi Rui grabbed his head and smashed it on the corner of the table hitting exactly on the soft part of the skull making sure he is bleeding profusely. Cheng Feng yuan was paralyzed looking at the used lowest level lightning rune, questioning his mind. His daughter sat across from him and poured tea for herself while Arthur''s blood started to smell throughout the room. "Now daddy. I think we can stop with the nonsense." A beautiful cold smile on her face. Know Thy Enemy Feng Yuan couldn''t understand no matter how much he thought. He never saw a single sign of madness in this daughter of his. unless...Feng Yuan stared at her Noticing his expression Zhi Rui sighed and stretched her hand across the table. Feng Yuan harshly seized her pulse. Inspecting every inch of her body including her inner core. He couldn''t find anything out of the ordinary. With his level of strength, she can''t hide anything from him. but even so, he doubted. "who are you? Zhi Rui mocked. "What? Father meets me every three years, and you can''t recognize your daughter?" Zhi Rui laughed and said "I understand your feelings, the idea that the rabbit at your side was a crocodile all along. is ridiculous and hard to accept. Even more for you, since you evolved a sense of self-importance and wisdom by manipulating those soldiers that can barely read. It must''ve been a shock. Ignoring the blackness on Feng Yuan face, Zhi Rui put on a resigned face. "In truth, with my head, it''s impossible to not see the things around me, I want it to be a lie. so I ran to the light hoping to find something there. even though I knew that was only a lamp the father kept dangling at my face, I still hoped. "It turned out hope is the most poisonous venom there is. so I decided to live whatever the way I fancied." Adjusting her seating position, Zhi Rui continued. "Now, dad. its time for business, The emperor will summon you soon. And since you successfully used me. you can ask for anything almost. Now, I don''t care what you ask for. but when people ask about me you''ll say: "She is aggrieved, but didn''t give up her path, and will continue to get strong in her own way." Of course, if father has other plans and wants to use me in any of them, I can only caution, you won''t succeed. Feng Yuan aggressively stood breaking the table in half. "Do you think you''re what?! you''re my daughter! if I want you to live you live! If I want you to die you die! tomorrow you''ll be engaged. And if I have to drug you and put on his bed I will do it! Do you really think you can choose?! The pressure of Feng yuan is strong but even with her body trembling and nose bleeding, Zhi Rui mocked. "Really, talking with slow people is annoying. If you do that I will kill my fiance, and you''ll be the father of a criminal, making you lose all your merits. If I can not kill my fiance, then I''ll give my ass on the main street market of the capital to all the men there. an again you''ll be the father of a whore and lose everything. Zhi Rui clenched her teeth enduring the pressure and roared "Understood old dog?! Do you need proof of my resolution?! just take a whiff and you''ll feel the brain smell of the man who raised me! Feng Yuan was enraged and choked. he couldn''t put a word out of his mouth, he kept staring at her expressions looking for a single sign of weakness, but he couldn''t! If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. Indeed he wanted to use her and guarantee his position for at least the next century. now he has to drop it? just like that, a century of security gone just like that? Because of this woman''s bullshit ?! He is not willing! He wanted to beat her up lock her in the bedroom and settle the marriage. but he can''t bet! if she did do something, then not only will he lost everything, he might be beheaded with her. Feng Yuan clenched his fists. how dare this mere thing block the ambitions of the great! But looking at her casual expression he gulped all his emotions down. He doesn''t fear ruthlessness or strong people. He fears the mad, unknown, those willing to bet everything on a dice throw. He can''t fight head-on. he is bounded by his image on the country. but she''s willing to give her everything up. From the beginning, this wasn''t a winnable fight. He has lost and needs to retreat for now. she is his daughter, living in his house, spending his money. She''s under his nose. today I was caught unaware thus suffered a loss. retreat, for now, observe and get to know the enemy. decided on his resolution, Feng Yuan started to probe "If you married into the next emperor, this house would have at least another stable century. and you''re putting your worthless wishes above that?" Zhi Rui laughed out loud "What is this? is it dad''s turn to speak nonsense now? Of course, I''ll put my ambitions above yours, as for this clan. as I increase my strength the overall clan''s strength will also rise. you don''t need to worry about that. after all, I''m still too beautiful and will need this clans protection and resources." Zhi Rui sighed and stood up "it''s getting late I need to go, after all, I didn''t dress up for nothing." Before opening the door she looked at the gloomy man and spoke as if soothing a child. "Don''t worry daddy you''re still a big powerful man, even though you can''t control your daughter. also, when you clean up the mess I made, tell aunt That I couldn''t bear the shock and went for a walk around the city hehe." Zhi Rui got out without looking back. Rage, mockery, disdain, loathing Feng Yuan swallowed everything. he''s ultimately a successful general and acts rationally there''s no profit in killing her, he cannot punish her. dirting her image now will only harm him too. but he also can not let her too free Even if she affirmed his probe of needing the clan''s power, what about once she becomes strong? but thinking how since young she had ordinary talent, and all these years wasted waiting for the light sect, her cultivation will be much slower. immediately he felt some relief there''s time. No need to rush, eventually he would make her pay for today Feng Yuan stifled his feelings scratching on his skin. And started thinking about what to say to Arthur''s wife. As for Arthur death? he only mourns the need to look for another aide. The Virtue of Helping just when Zhi Rui was looking for somebody to accompany her, she heard a commotion outside the gates. "Young lord has arrived!" The guards of the gate announced. Suddenly a feeling of revulsion surged on Zhi Rui''s gut, she frowned and closed her eyes. "hmmm, this is interesting" On her memories, every time her elder brother came back, he would in one way or another aways appear where she goes, and whenever she talked anything with the maids. He would investigate what was talked about. then would make questions about her. always trying to know what she needs or want. the old Zhi Rui was confused and didn''t know what to do. thus she avoided him. Interacting only when was obliged, the nausea was an instantaneous reaction to his name. But as the new Zhu Rui, she took on herself to solve past affairs. She walked to the entrance free and easy like a fox, which directly caught the guards and soldiers off guard. Young lord just got down from his horse when Zhi Rui appeared in front of him. "Elder brother Zheng, I''m heading for the city and need a ride do you want to come along?" Cheng Zheng li stood still, showing no response. "You don''t want to?" Zhi Rui asked staring fixedly at him. The soldier beside Zheng li knows his master treat his words as gold and after he freed himself from the astonishment effect his young lady gave. he answered. "I''m sorry young lady, the young lord had to organize some things in the front line, forcing him came all the way mounted without rest he''s too tir-pft" He didn''t finish before Zheng li slapped his mouth. Zheng li looked at him coldly. without a word he got on his horse again and extended his hand to Zhi Rui to help her mount. But Zhi Rui only smiled with mirth, without breaking eyes contact with him, she neared the next mounted soldier and got up behind him in a jump. seeing no reaction from Zheng li besides taking his hand back, Zhi li giggled and said. "the only store that sells cultivation and spell books at this hour is the market''s General store. Let''s go there." then she embraced the soldier in her horse, making him blush. but she didn''t care, only staring at her brother. his looks are similar to her, exceptionally handsome, green eyes, black hair except for his skin which is paler, everything else is similar. ---------- Soon they reached the front of the store. "this place is crowded." Zhi Rui complained while getting down the horse. Zheng li without opening his mouth stood directly at her side, looking coldly at the people around. No one dared to get close. Zhi Rui saw this with merriment. the whole way she didn''t take her eyes off him, and each time he stole glances at her she would embrace the soldier guiding the horse. Zhi Rui and Zheng li reached the counter of the store. She didn''t bother with the astonishment in the salesgirl''s face. "Show me every book and knowledge related to cultivation and spells" the sales girl flustered "O-okay Miss, do you want breathing methods or path methods?" This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. "No, I want general knowledge, not methods. like a beast encyclopedia or a book that details the common knowledge of paths. things like that okay?" "Y-yes, right away miss!" Zheng li observed her from the side, instead of talking to him Zhi Rui examined the tavern at the corner across from them a woman alone was drinking and dining with three men, they all were wearing some kind of heavy armor, but she was wearing a light one, mobility adapted. leather from her neck to the skirt that barely reached her knees, and a leathered loose overskirt that reached her ankles but didn''t get in the way. waist and shoulder pads were studded with some kind of metal. her eyes are golden with just a thin black iris. But when their gaze met, that thin iris expanded into a small, round black well. "Miss this is everything we have available right now. the ''history of cultivation and it''s paths'' have an extensive and detailed knowledge about the wars and the most popular path of each time from the last millennia, including the details of the path of great names from the demonic and righteous way. And this is a high-class book of basic knowledge on cultivation. I''m sorry young lady I''m afraid we don''t have anything on spells for now. Zhi Rui listened to everything without taking her eyes off the woman, then asnwered "total?" "the enciclo¨¦dia is quite old and the unique in the country so it''s a hundred common crystals. the other book is high class but it''s basic knowledge so it''s only ten crystals" Crystals? for books? it needs a hundred gold to change for one common crystal, and 100 common crystal made a green crystal . and a hundred of the same is worth one white crystal. Zhi Rui looked at Zheng li "pay it for me?" Zheng li frowned "Are you not getting your allowance?" Zhi Rui smiled, "yes I am, and no I didn''t forget to bring money. I just don''t want to spend." Zheng li stared at her with his cold face that didn''t change for anything. against all odds, he reached for the beg on his waist and paid the bill. Zhi Rui, as if it was nothing turned to the salesgirl "Why the crowd today?" "Answering the Young lady, the common people are making a public execution of a woman tonight, they are about to read her crimes." Seeing the surrounding getting silent Zhi Rui put a letter on Zheng li hands, then looked at the woman wearing leather armor. Zheng li understood clearly what she wanted, and instead of questioning or resisting he followed her wishes and went on to deliver her letter. While Zheng li went away, Zhi Rui passed through the crowd and saw a woman tied up on a stake. and the people were just waiting to throw rocks at her. There was an especially grotesque man with a glass in his hands instead of rocks. the man spoke aloud. "Today we punish this indecent woman for the crime of adultery, robbery, and scamming! we shall not waste time with details, let the execution start!" "STOP! who dares to touch her!" Zhi Rui screamed and stood to face the crowd. grinning inwardly. Saving a person, maybe I''m not a devil after all. One Step at a Time. The people around stopped clamoring. Zhi Rui was standing with her back to the tied woman. She stared at the crowd and said. "What are you all doing!? are you god!? are you a judge of this country!? Within what right, do you execute this woman? indecency? petty theft? if that were enough for hanging, not one person here would be alive! Suddenly the quiet crowd started to scream. they couldn''t accept her words, even more since she''s interrupting a rare chance of entertainment. "Young lady, please! Step aside, this is my wife! not even the heavens can get between a man and his woman!" The grotesque old man with glass on his hand wore an enraged expression as he exclaimed. Zhi Rui turned and stared at the man in the eye. but before she said anything the tied woman shrieked "You drunkard bastard! you sold me as a whore to pay the money you lost on gambling, and now that you don''t need me anymore, you want to kill me and appear as a righteous person!? Zhi Rui smiled coldly at him. The old man choked and started to sweat, but soon regained his righteous indignation. "See!? that whore can''t stop lying and humiliating me, even now!" The crowd cheered loudly in support. Zhi Rui put on a resigned face and spoke, " but what if you''re lying? god is all knowing, but I''m not. She suddenly laughed aloud and exclaimed. "I know! why don''t we ask all the men around that have been with your wife, to testify? of course, they''ll all be under oath. What do you think?" The man turned pale. He wanted to attack this random girl and carry on, but then heard someone''s whisper at his side. "She''s General Cheng''s daughter, Cheng Zhi Rui." That was all it took. The men stopped in place. and suddenly started crying and pleading "Young lady please forgive me I''ve had just been enlighted, the light told me to not give in to anger, I don''t want to kill her, it was only a moment of foolishness Young lady." the man kneeled and looked at the sky "please oh all-powerful god of light forgive my wrongdoings." Zhi Rui looked at the man in awe, such a quick-thinking! Then she saw the soldier that had carried her, getting out from the man''s side and understood. Ignoring everybody else around, she turned to the front of the tied woman and spoke in a tone for everybody to hear. "You have lived a tormented and wicked life and had no other choice but to do what you did! And the light of God is forgiving with the powerless." Zhi Rui, with the dagger she always carries on herself, cut the woman''s rope and proclaimed. "From today onwards you''re my, Cheng Zhi Rui''s personal maid." The now free woman looked at the deep green eyes and threw herself at Zhi Rui''s foot crying and thanking the god of light. Suddenly there was a clap, then the whole crowd cheered. What was an execution ground now became, a ceremony of redemption? Zhi Rui surveyed the crowd, with a calm, cold expression, thinking inwardly. Yes, this is how it should be, cold and calculating. The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.applaud for death now, then clap for life right after. Bow in respect today, execute in disdain tomorrow. this way is easy to predict, and easy to control. Zhi Rui snapped away from her thoughts and helped the woman to her feet. then both of them walked back to the general store''s entrance, as the crowd opened the way still applauding. Zhi Rui stared at the tavern across the store. In the corner, the woman with leather armor was still there, but the other three men were gone. the woman gave a discreet nod in Zhi Rui''s direction. Getting her response, Zhi Rui went to her brother who was holding both horses alone. "Where is the soldier?" Zhi Rui asked him. Zheng li looked at her eyes with the same unchanged expression and spoke. "He tried to attack a woman in the alley beside the store so I executed him." Zhi Rui was amazed. Not from the content of the talk, but the fact that he talked. She stared at him. then she thought to herself "attacked a woman? it hasn''t been even five minutes since he left the crowd, and one of Cheng family''s soldier risking such thing at this time? a huge crowd a lot of lights?" Suddenly she realized, that is her brother''s reaction to her coming together with the soldier. she started thinking. "so, Jealousy? or the fact that I reject his hand when I got on the other horse? maybe he thinks I''m some kind of pure being because of the old Zhi Rui? and what about my change? He didn''t seem to care about it. weird" Zhi Rui sighed inwardly. "this is the problem with dealing with crazy people. I can''t guess, have to observe. having someone doing everything you want, sounds tempting but it takes too much risk." suddenly she grabbed his hair and jerked his face close to hers. they bumped heads but she didn''t let go. Instead, she grabbed his jaw with her other hand, and gave him a quick peck, then whispered. "You''re a good boy, but don''t kill anyone around me without my permission again, even if I have sex with whoever all night! If I don''t give the word, you just put up with it. understood, pervert?!" Staring at the deep green abyss, Zheng li could only nod meekly. Zhi Rui released him, put the woman up on his horse, then went to mount the other one. On the way back Zhi Rui thought about the success of her preparations. She now has the mercenary woman as a contact, and can easily have information on the underground and hidden parts of the city through her. that type of information will be vital if she wants to have power outside of the General''s eyes. And to be secure and remain low key, she got the personal maid. who''ll be exchanging the messages with the mercenary woman. this way if for any reason a problem occurs, the word of a woman who came from the slums, can''t harm the image of the virtuous general''s daughter. With that, she can study more relieved. the only loss is not knowing where Zheng li''s abnormal behavior towards her came from. it seems useful for her now, but that can change as soon as she blinks. Not reliable, better use him only if truly needed. To Live Well Tomorrow, You Need to Suffer Today When they reached home, Zhi Rui left the woman to one of the maids and explained her to teach and take care of her because now she''s her personal maid, then instructed for nobody disturb her. She will mourn at her quarters. Zhi Rui turned to her brother stared into his eyes and said. "I need a hundred crystal, can you give me?" Zheng Li, as always just gave it to her. and went away without a word. Zhi Rui ignored him and wrote a list of what to deliver for lunch and dinner through the week. She handed it to the maid, took two bottles of wine and a piece of cheese while getting away to her room. She wanted this time alone so she could study, and avoid having to act out remorse in front of other people. just thinking of dealing with the weeping of maids while acting mournful herself, Zhi Rui got shivers. As for what story her father told about Arthur''s death, and what he''ll request the emperor. She''ll just ask her maid later. the maids heard of the young lady taking two wine bottle to her room and they couldn''t help but lament, such a gentle and caring young lady shouldn''t suffer like this. And even more, she shouldn''t drink in suffering at such a tender age. Zhi Rui went directly to her room and locked a door. Once inside the privacy of her room, she let it out. Even though the old Zhi Rui kept her room simple and humble, it couldn''t stop her joy, she jumped on every furniture on the room laughing in joy. "What a time! what a good life! HAHA. A powerful dad to protect me, a caring and understanding elder brother. loyal and dedicated servants" Zhi Rui looked at the sky outside the window "I''ll use and enjoy this. then I''ll multiply my assets. I''ll take the palace as my house. This country''s people will be my servants. then plunge the light sect into nothingness and that''ll be only the beginning. after all, life is meant to be lived, I cannot stay in this place forever." "pffthuhehaHaHAHAHA!" Zhi Rui suddenly laughed hysterically. After pouring out the feelings inside her, she slowly settled her breath. She took the thin book for beginners in hands. Zhi Rui made herself forgot every broken bit of information she had learned before, so she could better assimilate the full knowledge. She opened the book cover. after two hours she finished it. then went to the first page, gave it another slow attentive read. Closing the book, she started processing all the information, filtering unimportant details she resumed it. The first step: forming the inner core. to form a core you have to gather enough heavenly energy to overwhelm the body, then you condense all the energy into your body while using your mental image to give form to your core, in the heart the core is a vital part of yourself, but it''s resistant, it heals itself as fast as your body does, it takes at least something two times stronger than oneself to destroy it. the second step: is to evolve it. the heavenly energy in you used to form a core condensed with the body as a whole, doubling the overall quality you had before forming a core. If you were able to lift fifty kg before, then after, you''re able to lift a hundred. Now you can refine materials inside the core to straighten the body and mind Your talent for a cultivator is defined by how much you can manipulate your core. if you can feel the space inside and store and take out things. you''re ordinary if you can also put your consciousness into it, you are talented, and in rare cases, if you can put living beings inside you''re extremely talented. This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. but what truly matters it''s what you can refine. Two people might have the same exact core and strength, but if one refined a beast core and obtained an ability then the other who don''t will most likely die. You can utilize an ability of a beast core at the cost of the beast core itself. Or you can refine the whole core into your own inner core, and get an innate ability permanently. What they call specialization and path, is what you choose to refine into your core. Zhi Rui opened her eyes. "For now, I don''t need to know more." She took her wine and cheese, went to the table beside the window opened the encyclopedia and dined in leisure. ---------- Throughout the week, Zhi Rui didn''t leave her room once. Every time the kitchen delivered dinner or lunch, she would ask them to leave it on the door. Then picked it up later. She only ordered plentiful, tasty portions of food Even Madam Xue who was mourning her husband''s death felt better. "This girl is finally eating well, you would feel good seeing this Arthur." Madam Xue got red-eyed thinking to herself. --------- The week was over Zhi Rui closed the encyclopedia. Zhi Rui sighed thinking about the core the old Zhi Rui formed. Ordinary, nothing else but common. if she wants to get strong she''ll have to nurture her inner core first. The way for supremacy is ruthless, so, she has to be even more so. She gathered all her crystals and scrunched her face. while she got her allowance, it''s still just a small amount of twenty common crystals per year. as she wasn''t frugal her dad only gave this much. of course, her elder brother works in the front line and is gonna be the future family head. so he gets more. the good news is that the old Zhi Rui only spend enough to buy some clothes and special herbs to eat. Her total is two hundred and fifty common crystals. She could buy some materials to start nurturing her inner core but she has no way of getting another windfall, so instead of being impatient. Zhi Rui decided to invest half crystals in a long-term business. and the other half on a high-risk hight return. She smiled, she already knows what to do. Suddenly an image of light passed through her head. "As for the light sect, maybe I don''t need to wait long. like the girl though, I can still enter as a common disciple in the next recruitment. Except my aim is to destroy them from the inside. and as a general''s daughter, I''ll have the perk of going in and out as I want. that''ll allow me to manage my situation in both the country and the sect." She thought to herself. With all her plans in mind, Zhi Rui decided to put everything in motion. She got out of her room. ------------------------------------- Special Thanks for you Moon2118 - Myriad_- 99bigbear - yanou - Nea7 - sia_01- Verithoz -Zetheryl- foxy_jov i- Xandgod - Mimizu. For supporting this novel, and feel relieved. I''m going to post at least two chapter a day from tomorrow onwards. #POWESTONE IT Keep Your Friends Close. Summoned in the middle of the week by the emperor. Cheng Feng Yuan kneeled in the throne''s room with his eldest son. The emperor has evolved his crystal to the fifth level, his aura flooded the throne hall. The emperor spoke. "Cheng Feng Yuan are you sure of your request?" Cheng Feng Yuan kneeling in front of the imperial throne answered. "Yes, your majesty." Everybody else in the hall had foul expressions. "I''ll comply with your request." The emperor nodded rigidly Feng Yuan kowtowed and answered, "this servant is honored." "The meeting is now over." The emperor announced. Feng Yuan stood up kowtowed then finalized the formalities with other nobles before he went out. Zheng Li with him. Feng yuan looked at his eldest son on the way back. "I requested a month of vacation for me, Your sister decided to focus on cultivating, And I''m going to support her, you don''t need to worry. You must go back to the front lines. And show them what you''re capable of. "hum" Zheng Li nodded in agreement Even though Zheng Li showed no expression. Feng Yuan have an idea of what is in his son''s mind. To Feng Yuan, this son of his is like a volcano, you never know when it''ll blow up. It takes too much to reach his bottom line, but when you do, he won''t measure his actions. He suffers from the same problem as his father. they both have a strong desire. An intense sense of lust. Feng Yuan have a lust for power and everything that comes with it. As for his son, Zheng Li has a much peculiar kind of desire, he can''t be sure, but as his father. Feng Yuan can read more into his thoughts than others. But Feng Yuan doesn''t blame nor judge him, it''s in the blood. In fact, he feels pride in it. His only preoccupation was his daughter. While using her to his means was ultimately useful, it was still a disappointment to have such simple minded thick-headed daughter. A person can''t be like that, but she''s his daughter nonetheless so he decided to use her commonly, a Marriage for family benefit. Nobody loses. But heavens never cease to amaze. Now, when he thinks about his daughter, The image of the needy, prudish thing, turning into a cold bloodthirsty beast in front of him, killing, and taunting. Feng Yuan felt his blood boil as the image passes through his mind. He was angry. true His plans were demolished, he was despised and humiliated but eventually, he composed himself. Once he calmed down an absurd amount of joy, traveled through his body. Monsters, we''re all monsters, all three of us. Daughter, father, and son. Exhilaration, pride, even happiness! His daughter didn''t fail him either! The Cheng family, with such beastly front line, how can it''s future be any less than great?! Cheng Feng Yuan had a sardonic smile on his face I''ll make sure these two serve the clan well! ---------- Zhi Rui got out of her room, not long after, her new maid, come to greet her With a pouch and a box. "Young lady, the master just came from the palace and sent these for the Young lady. The maid bowed. Zhi Rui didn''t take the things from her, she looked at her face. she had a healthy glow, even a slight blush, most will not notice it, but Zhi Rui is well acquainted with this kind of expression. It was the same glow she saw when the servants got out of a certain perverted elder''s quarters on the light sect. Zhi Rui started to though. So her new maid was already ''contacted'' by father, that change some things. But still, we didn''t even speak half a word after I saved her life, and she''s already sucking up to father and putting the knife on my back, such a proactive girl. Such a good example is worth following. If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Zhi Rui smiled, "I didn''t have time to ask, what is your name? "Zhun Xuying, young lady." The maid answered. "What a beautiful name. why don''t you put the box in my room, then come to the entrance I''ll be waiting." "As young lady commands." Zhun Xuying gave the pouch to Zhi Rui curtsied and went away. ----------- Reaching the entrance gate, Zhi Rui saw Zheng Li mounting a horse. ready to go out. Zheng Li looked at his sister, he couldn''t help but be stumped again. such a beautiful woman. Today she was wearing a tight black with shades of red pants and a blouse that went until the waist, fully outlining her figure. He didn''t say anything, but the fire in his heart is getting stronger each time he saw her. "Elder brother is going back?" "hm." He nodded. and it ended there, her personal maid appeared then she went away, after saying goodbye. "Wait. you''re not taking a guard with you ?" Zhir Rui looked back at him, "No need, I''ll meet one right now." Zheng Li remembered the woman he delivered the letter and felt relieved. without saying anything he went away. he didn''t want to, but he needs to cool down, otherwise, he might commit a mistake ---------- Master and servant both walked towards a more isolated part of the city. It was three in the afternoon, so the streets were quiet, and the wind was hot. Zhun Xuying was around thirty years and has never eating regularly. She was sweating and breathing hard, After all, she was completely human. Zhi Rui didn''t mind it, she would observe her from time to time. but she never stopped to rest. Soon, they reached a small tavern, Zhi Rui looked at the tables inside and found her. Golden, feline eyes, short messy golden hair, leather armor with an overskirt. she wasn''t voluptuous, but you could see her fitness. Zhi Rui went in her direction Zhun Xuying was confused but followed along. face to face, Zhi Rui stared the woman on her eyes, without blinking. "I didn''t ask your name yet." Zhi Rui said the same phrase she used on her maid. "That''s because you send your man to deliver your words. if you had come yourself, I would''ve told you myself. My name is Hilda, don''t question it, it''s a tribal name." Zhi Rui smiled "I didn''t plan on coming myself either as you know from the letter. But men made plans then heavens laugh." At the end of the sentence, Zhi Rui eyes went to Zhun Xuying. Hilda noticed but didn''t comment. " I was holed up in the bedroom for a week, I want to go to a nicer place." Zhi Rui extended her hand to Hilda. "let''s go?" Hilda looked at the fair hand, the girls voice still resonating in her mind. "Yes, as long as you pay." She reached out and their hands linked. Feeling the smooth but firm hand, Zhi Rui chuckled. --------- Zhun Xuying hadn''t even rested when they moved again. And yet when she reached their new destination, her mind shook her up from surprise, it was as if the ground under her was falling. "Eh-uhm Y-young lady, are you sure? if you happened to be sighted here, Your image will be severely affected." Zhi Rui smiled gently at her, then answered. Don''t worry, few people know of my appearance, and few would believe if they were told the righteous young lady of the general''s house went to a brothel. Finished speaking, she looked at Hilda, seeing no reaction. She directly went to the woman receiving them at the door. looked seriously at the woman''s eyes and said "I want a particular room, you don''t need to bring courtesans only wine and food." she gave a smile to the woman. "I''ll have some fun today." And Keep Your Enemies Even Closer. Zhi Rui, Zhun Xuying, and Hilda entered a private room. there were comfortable soft cushion mats, made with wine red silk with soft stuffing, Everything in the room had the red shade in it, some brighter others darker, With beautiful lamps illuminating just enough for the room to be slightly dim. And with incenses perfuming the place, this kind of mood, even if you''re timid, you''d turn into a new leaf. Zhu Rui looked around fascinated, she''d never seen a room like this. So comfortable and luxurious, she turned to the other two. Hamilde had taken off her shoes and sat cross-legged on the cushion mat. Zhun Xuying stood still, her hands nervously clenching on her white servant robe. looking around nervously. "Sit down Xuying, if you keep acting all coy like that I might just eat you up." Zhi Rui Chuckled and said. Zhun Xuying got startled, her mind was already in a mess with the place her lady chose to come, now with this kind of joke, her mind is even more clouded. "What is this brat thinking? I just got this change of life, and she brought me to a brothel!? and the second thing she does is throw promiscuous jokes at me?! maybe she forgot I''m thirty-five years old woman? with her thick minded belief, Respecting the elders is common sense." Suddenly she remembered this morning. Zhun Xuying was summoned by the master of the house, they made a deal, Which was celebrated with a good morning sex. Zhun Xuying though about the man himself, if the news his daughter was in a brothel with her spread, wouldn''t that man use her as a scapegoat!? That absolutely can''t happen! "Uhh it''s just I never been to this kind of place Young lady, I''m not comfortable. Its understandable, Young lady is at the age of being curious, but we shouldn''t come here. For an old lady like myself, there''s no harm. But Young lady is young and have an image to keep." Zhun Xuying spared no efforts to look ill while speaking said. Hilda stood by the sidelines only observing. Zhi Rui couldn''t see much of a flaw in Zhun Xuying expressions, but since she saw her the first time today, she decided to break civilities, why bother scheming if you can bend the person''s will directly? Zhi Rui smiled speaking, "Xuying shouldn''t call herself an old woman, in fact, the age gap only makes it tastier, isn''t that right Xuying?" Zhun Xuying was angry now. "Young lady please! while I''m your maid, I''m also an elder. I can''t accept this kind of joke!" "Can''t Accept?" Zhi Rui smirked. "Then what are you gonna do Xuying?" Zhi Rui kept talking Walking up to Zhun Xuying. "So What If mistreat you? So what If I abuse you? what you''re gonna do about it?" Zhun Xuying couldn''t understand what''s happening, "is this girl crazy?!" she thought. Zhi Rui backed Zhun Xuying into the wall. She softly touched Zhun Xyings tight with her fingers. scaring Zhun Xuying, until she started trembling. Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. Zhi Rui got closer, their bodies were pressed together. Zhun Xuying started to stutter with red-rimmed eyes "P-please Young lady." Zhi Rui leaned her head toward Zhun Xuying''s ears and whispered. "How was daddy''s taste? is it true, the older the spicier?" Zhi Rui suddenly distanced herself and sat down at her own mat, across from Zhun Xuying who was paralyzed with her back against the wall. So this is what was all about! Ughh this fucking brat! Understanding her lady somehow found out about her deal with the general. Zhun Xuying ceased her act and just stared coldly at the girl across the table. "You know, is not wise as the losing side, to have this look on the face. Hilda who was quiet until now commented. Zhu Xuying understands such a principle, its because she understands that she''s doing it. If the prey doesn''t show misery than the predator won''t feel at ease. But she''s also not too worried, Zhi Rui put on such show because she wants something. So naturally her life and lifestyle still intact. Zhi Rui didn''t look at her face, she poured a cup of wine to Hilda, another to Zhun Xuing. The last to herself. Zhun Xuying saw this and sat. they were on a triangular formation. Hilda was on Zhi Ruis right side, and Zhun Xuyin was across from Zhi Rui. Zhi Rui broke the silence. "I could''ve just threatened you, and tell you to do what I want, how I want. but I learned that if you can make someone want to do their work. then that''s more useful. But before I say anything else tell me, what has the general given you in exchange for informing on my actions? "10 common crystals a year." Zhi Rui suddenly stared at Zhun Xuying in wonder and blurted out. "You''re quite cheap." Zhun Xuying''s eyebrows twitched. Zhi Rui continued. "I can offer you an actual chance at living, are you interested in cultivating?" Who isn''t?! was writing all over Zhun Xuyings face, but she knew that it''s not easy to obtain, even more with someone as weird at this young lady of hers. Zhi Rui sighed "ugh I''m tired of doing it step by step, It''s simple. You''ll do whatever I tell you to do. If you do a good job I''ll bring you to enter light sect with me when the time comes. If you don''t agree then you''ll die. so how is it? Zhu Xuying did not believe in promises, but when someone, threatens your life, you don''t have the luxury of a second option. "I understand Young lady. this servant will serve faithfully." "Now, go call a courtesan to play for us, the wine will taste better." After ordering, Zhi Rui turned to look at Hilda. Hilda''s feline pupils dilated to rounded black, like a cat that''s ready to pounce. Zhi Rui giggled, took Hilda''s cup and downed it, before saying. It''s too early, why don''t we have some fun? Stuck between a tigers mouth and a wolfs den. Hilda smiled at Zhi Rui question. "I''m sorry miss, but I''m a mercenary and time is money. I only stayed to watch the show, here''s what you wanted." Hilda gave a thick envelope to Zhi Rui. Zhu Rui took it on her hands but didn''t look at it. She frowned "If you''re not here then it''ll be no fun." Zhi Rui reached inside her waist and took out a letter and extended it to Hilde. When Hilda took hold of the letter, Zhi Rui acted. She caught Hilda''s arm and pulled herself into Hilde''s body and forced her lips onto Hilda''s. It was a hot wet deep kiss. After a minute, they separated. Both with a blush on the face, Zhi Rui smiled cleaning a little saliva from the corner of her mouth with her thumb. "I didn''t think young miss swung this way," Hilde said, staring at Zhi Rui gesture. Zhi Rui settled her breath before answering. "I swing in any way you can feel the pleasures of life." Zhi Rui stared at Hilda''s eyes intensely, after while she spoke. "Xuying, let''s go." After calling her trusted maid, Zhi Rui turned away Hilda stared at Zhi Rui''s back while she settled the payment for the room. What a heartless woman. Hilda thinks to herself in a playful tone. ---------- Zhun Xuying didn''t talk the whole way back, She could only think of her current situation. It''s true, she''s vicious. But she never had to deal with this level of people. She feels like, she jumped out of the tiger''s mouth, only to find herself, in a wolf den. It''s stupid to believe in the promises of Zhi Rui, but believing or not there''s nothing she can do. Zhun Xuying sighed in resentment. Soon they entered on the main street. But Zhi Rui didn''t take the direction of her house. Instead, she went to the center of the marked. Zhi Rui and Zhun Xuying stood in the front of the beast core''s store. Zhun Xuying didn''t find it strange after all Zhi Rui is at the first level, besides the innate abilities of her body, she needs to refine cores to gain abilities and nurture her own inner core. they both went in. While cultivation is common, it''s not to the point where the store of cultivation material are full, there are two clerks, the free one immediately went to the two woman "How can I help?" the slightly fat but amiable clerk greeted. Zhi Rui didn''t bother with formalities. "I''m General Cheng''s daughter, Cheng Zhi Rui. This time I came here to purchase level one cores for my maid, so you talk with her, also she''s a complete amateur, so please be patient and solve her difficulties." Zhun Xuying was astounded, she observed as Zhi Rui went to the counter and boringly flipped through the catalogs. Zhun Xuying cannot understand this move. Isn''t it common sense to keep the people under you, weaker than yourself? Forget about it, this is an opportunity. I must get ahold of it. The clerk saw Zhi Rui''s way of doing things, and adapted to it, being curt and straightforward. "How can I address you, lady?" "I''m Zhun Xuying." "Miss Zhun this is the catalog for level one beast cores." the clerk offered. Zhun Xuying hesitated before taking the catalog, "H-hmm I didn''t form a core yet. I don''t know how it works." "Oh," the clerk answered. "Then I will explain it, miss Zhun can stop me to clear any doubts." The clerk continued. Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!When you just form your core, the best thing to do is check what abilities were uncovered from your body. That way you can choose a more suitable core. For example, a person might have an innate strong body, then he would have to choose a core that complements his strength ability or since he is inherently strong, he can choose a passive type of beast core to support him. At level one. Which is the level, you''ll be when you form your core. You can refine one beast core to assimilate one of the abilities left within. "Wait, how come it gives abilities?" Zhun Xuting asked. The clerk answered faithfully. the core is the essence of a living being. the moment your body forms a core you''re a spiritual being, connecting with the world, the inner core is the very essence of your being. When a living being dies, his core remains. inside it is the essence of the living being. And thus, when you manage to refine it you can feel the attributes of the beast who own the core had. you can either chose to refine the whole core as nourishment to your own inner core, or you can refine one of its attributes/abilities, making it innately yours, but you have to choose wisely, what kind of abilities you refine, otherwise your future will be doomed. you can also use the core as disposable, you put it inside your inner core''s aperture. but do not refine it, instead, activate it with heavenly energy. That consumes the essence inside the core so once it runs out it disappears. of course, once you use it that way, you cannot assimilate it nor use it as nourishment. Zhun Xuying heard all that but was still confused, her eyes unknowingly went to Zhi Rui. Zhi Rui didn''t even lift her head while answering. "Don''t look at me. I''m studying it myself. why don''t you buy a simple one then when the time comes you can choose to refine it as nourishment or take an ability from it. You can also leave it as an active ability, but after you activate it once, you cannot refine it to either nourishment or the skill. "It is as the young lady says," clerk complemented. Zhun Xuying didn''t know what to do, this chance might not come again in the future. As if seeing through her mind. Zhi Rui''s voice passed through her ears. "If you serve me well, you''ll be rewarded, purchasing cores won''t be a problem. Soon it''s gonna be recruitment time for the light Sect. If you come with me, naturally you''ll need a certain level of strength, so you can be of use to me. You might not even have to spend your own money to get strong. And if I spread the news that I''ll teach you cultivation, Father will understand that I''m offering you this much, hence he''ll be obliged to spend more on your reports. Hell, you can rip him off, you''re betraying someone who''s giving you a new life, And that''s expansive. Zhi Rui stood up went to her side and whispered. "you''re already in hell might as well embrace the devil, and try to get the most of it." Zhi Rui then distanced herself and spoke, as if talking to herself. "Who knows, maybe if you act strongly then you might actually gain freedom and fortunes. But if you try to act timid, that''ll be your death sentence. With Zhi Rui words, Zhun Xuying went into a trance. After some minutes, she finally decided, she pointed at the catalog and exclaimed, "I want that one!" Zhi Rui looked at the chosen core, and couldn''t help being amazed at her choice. Hope Is the Best Way to Keep People Close. Zhun Xuying chose the cannibal mantis core. The cannibal mantis is a mutation of a regular mantis, these creatures can reach the size of a person, due to its scarcity and the level of difficulty to obtain one, its the most expensive level one core on the store. Zhi Rui was amazed by Zhun Xuying''s boldness, the moment she finished talking, Zhun Xuying barely thought twice, before she chose the most violent and rare. "Maybe with this kind of decision-making power she won''t be useless." Zhi Rui though. "Miss Zhun chose well. This core comes from far away, and it''s a rare mutated insect type. The cannibal mantis abilities and attributes, consisting of a wide almost 180 degrees vision, explosive speed attack, and aptitude with blade and spikes, its price is a hundred crystals." The clerk said. Zhi Rui got up, and without hesitation, handed over the crystals. A common level one core costs 20 crystals. these are appreciated by the poor. A common level two core has the value of 50. A common level three its a 100. And level four above, they are rare and have high demand. so its sold in other forms. but she gained more crystals before getting out of the house she still has around three hundred crystals left. Zhi Rui turned around and stared at Zhun Xuying''s face. "let''s go?" Zhun Xuying nodded, both went out towards the general''s manor. On the way Zhi Rui noted Zhun Xuying looking nervous while walking and holding the box with the core. Zhi Rui chuckled, "This is a noble part of the city, and we''re two beautiful women, related to the general''s house. while rare that core is still only level one. no cultivator would risk much for it." Zhun Xuying nodded, but still looked uneasy. Zhi Rui ignored her expression and asked. "What was in the box my father gave me?" Zhun Xuying answered, "I think it might be spiritual water Young miss." "You think?" Zhi Rui stared at her. "The other maids say the general asked for spiritual water and a month of vacation, form the emperor. The general only told me to deliver the box, not the contents. young lady." Zhi Rui laughed. "So Father is the type that ignores people right after having his fun. What a bastard." "If the conditions are clear, then discuss anything else is waste of time." Zhun Xuying commented. "True." Zhi Rui agreed Zhi Rui started thinking. Spiritual water? That''s something he normally wouldn''t be able to get his hands on, at least not in this small kingdom in the middle of nowhere. and he gave it to me? Zhi Rui turned and stared intensely at Zhun Xuying. Then questioned "How was father in the bed?" Zhun Xuying tripped and almost fell. "E-Err Young lady?" But seeing the cold green eyes she answered. "His was intense, like a beast having it''s fun." Zhun Xuying didn''t even blush while describing. Zhi Rui starts walking again. Thinking to herself So he''s excited? But why? The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. Zhi Rui suddenly understood. The man is a power hungry monster that sends thousands of soldiers to their death on a daily basis. The fact his daughter''s is at the least a little like him. brought him joy, What used to be a good chess piece, now become a powerful chess piece. Zhi Rui grinned "Being on the controlling end has blurred your sense of danger daddy." She mumbles to herself Zhun Xuyin observed her young lady walking absent-mindedly. Two monsters. She thought. Then she looked at the box on her hands. Now I have a chance to enter their levels too. She thought of the explanation the clerk gave her, she can choose to strengthen her vision, her explosive force, or she can refine the manti''s ability to manipulate blades and spikes. I have to choose well, or my future is doomed. Soon they entered the manor. Zhi Rui gave her basic book about cultivation to Zhun Xuying and went to her room. Zhi Rui put a sign on the door. To not be disturbed. Zhi Rui went to the box her father gifted, opened it. There was a transparent bottle with a what seems like normal water. She took the letter on the side, explaining what it does, and how to use it. Spiritual water nourishes the inner core in a specific way. The inner core receives the heavenly energy from around and condenses it into refined energy, it''s what a cultivator use for activating spells, manipulate elements and your own abilities. The spiritual water nourish the refinement process of an inner core, making it sustain and refine faster If a person takes a week to refine a core. Then with a core nourished with spiritual water, it''ll be reduced to a day. Zhi Rui still hasn''t refined a beast core. and her talent is ordinary, making the water even more valuable. She didn''t hesitate, time is short. She gobbled it all down and started to refine it. Two days later when she finished. Zhi Rui frowned, the energy refined by her inner core is red, strangely red, normally a level one core''s refined energy should be blue and stable. But her own are red and hot, and strangely denser. Zhi Rui brought her conscience back. her eyes were calm. I must study it. It doesn''t matter if it''s denser than usual, blessings do not fall from the sky, whatever it is it''s not common. And it might be more harm than good. Zhi Rui took the envelope Hilda gave her. The letter Zheng Li had delivered that day, contained a service request, it was a simple information purchase trade. Zheng Li paid upfront. So Hilda gathered the information and delivered a day later. The information contained the names of the big people in the shadow of the capital, where you can buy weapons, where slave trading is held. every underground organization and their respective patrons funding them. If you want to make money, you need to have money. and the most effective way to gather capital. Zhi Rui though to herself and mumbled out loud. "isn''t it common sense? stealing." Starting a Business and Contribute to Society But steal what and from whom? Zhi Rui started to think of the names on the list Hilda gave her. Suddenly she felt a vibration in her waist. Zhi Rui remembered the Hope Rock, she put inside the letter that she handed to Hilda. She took it out of her waist and put it on the ground, as soon as she put a little oh her refined energy onto it, a clear image of Hilda seating on the ground of a common inn room cross-legged appeared on her bedroom. "Whoa! What did you do? The stone here on my end flipped over and almost cracked." Hilda said. Zhi Rui frowned. "The red color on my refined energy?" She thought silently. Whatever it is she has to get Hilda''s attention away from it. "Do you know why those stones are named Hope rocks?" Zhi Rui said. Hilda shrugged, answering, "Besides some sob story of a cultivator trying to contact his dead wife and accidentally discovering these rocks. I know it''s pricey and only some important rich people have it." Zhi Rui smiled at her answer. "Good, I don''t have to explain anything and straight direct to business then. I''m planning to start a business, and need someone to help me manage it. Are you up for stealing some slaves?" Hilda was stomped, it came too sudden, and out of nowhere. Hilda just gave a smile and answered, I''m sorry miss I am not interested in that kind of business. Zhi Rui also sat on the ground, she picked a grape and put it on her mouth slowly. after eating she spoke softly "I know what kind of business you''re interested in. This is what I observed from you, Hilda. Your inner core is almost entering its third evolution. You lack third-ranked core to evolve it. You have no affiliation, nor do you work for a noble. You say you''re a mercenary correct? you''ll only receive big payments doing big jobs. but the competition is strong and no one will trust a lone woman. That''s why you were dining with those three men. the first time we met. You can only bring weaker people to do mediocre jobs with, and gain mediocre rewards." Zhi Rui looked at Hilde''s cold eyes, smirked and continued. "By elimination, the business you''re interested in is the High-risk higher reward type." Zhi Rui finished speaking Hilda didn''t speak or move, she only stared intensely at Zhi Rui. Zhi Rui chuckled and said," If you do this business with me, I''ll tell you how I know." Hilda finally talked. "You''re speaking about stealing slaves, that''s not a big money business, that''s opposite to what you said. This is high risk and low rewards." Zhi Rui answered. "The robbery is just a method to an end. the real business starts later. You think in the system parameters Hilda. That''s why you couldn''t gather a simple hundred crystal. I promise you, if you help me we''ll both own a piece of the underground. Hilda was back in her laid-back attitude but still sneered "I don''t believe in promises," Then how about this. I''ll give you a hundred crystals upfront. All you''ll have to do. is contract some low lives, kill some guards, create chaos. And delay their defense actions. Hilda stared with wide eyes. she raised her voice. "Are you talking about taking the slaves directly from the market street? Do you know that all slave traders isolate that street for themselves? and you think they don''t have rank 3 guards?" Zhi Rui nodded and spoke, "Yes, three big slave traders and four small ones. And yes they have rank third guards. But they never had the need to use them, tell me, how many times the slave market had trouble?" Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. Hilda didn''t speak, the meaning was obvious, there never been this kind of news. Zhi Rui continued, "They are in their own home, the tribes around the capital do not care about slavery. they don''t have competition in this country. This place is relaxing, they don''t have to worry about a thing. they have guards but they are not really guarded." "Even if we do steal, What do we do with a bunch of marked slaves?" Hilda questioned. "I have a method to keep and use them freely." Zhi Rui answered while patting her chest in a sassy manner. Hilda stayed silent, Zhi Rui saw her hesitation. She suddenly spoke, "I know I''m not giving you any guarantee besides my world. Let''s do it like this. During this week, you''ll gather intelligence on the slave market. Of course, I''ll pay for it. Then after we''ll talk again. Hilda nodded. Zhi Rui smiled. Picked the stone up, finishing contact. Zhi Rui went outside her room and ordered the nearest maid to summon Zhun Xuying. Around 10 minutes later Zhun Xuying knocked on the door. "Did miss called for me?" "Come in." Zhi Ri spoke. Zhun Xuying then entered the room. Her aura was totally different. From her posture to the way of walking. every inch of her body exuded elegance and maturity. Zhi Rui smiled with joy, "so you formed your core. How do you feel?" "This servant can''t describe, young lady. this servant never felt anything similar before." Zhun Xuying spoke in obvious joy. Zhi Rui looked at her and spoke. "Good, then let''s make your mood even better. Remember the big cheap brothel near where you lived? Go there and buy it, say you''re answering my brother, Zheng Li''s order. I want it fast so offer ten percent more than the actual price. As for the people inside, with the exception of the prostitutes do with other''s what you wish." Zhun Xuying froze, the image of what happened to her, how she was treated and what she had to do for survival. all passed through her mind. Suddenly she remembered the faces that keep her up at night. Zhun Xuying started trembling while gave the most respectful bow and spoke: "This servant is grateful, Young miss." "It''s the end of the day it must be open you can go there now." Zhi Rui ordered. "Yes, young lady!" Zhun Xuying went away in glee. As soon as Zhun Xuying went away, Zhi Rui lied down on her bed and started mumbling to herself. "Zhun Xuying, born and raised on the slums, understand since young how the world works, learned to do basic math and how to write on her own, everything she ever did was to stay alive in that hell. A cutthroat, venomous woman." "Hilda, While I spoke like I knew everything about her. I left out the part, Where the information on the envelope is not something a mere rank two mercenary alone can know. She probably thought I wouldn''t notice it because of my princess birth. Whatever method she used to get her hands on this information, I''ll need them." "A cutthroat, with no morals, and a mysterious resourceful mercenary. If they do good, I''ll put them on my side when I take control of this small country. Of course, If I need them dead. That''ll not be a bad end for them either." Zhi Rui fell asleep with a gentle smile. Heaven Rewards the Virtuous Zhi Rui was worried about her refined energy. So after Zhun Xuying went away, She wore a casual robe and directly went to the library on the mansion. She read in the encyclopedia book, about people having a different color of refined energy. Those usually focused all on a single path. Hence their refined energy is affected by the path chosen. But it only happens after the fifth rank, where you have five innate abilities, and can equip five expendables cores. Zhi Rui still ranks one, it shouldn''t be possible. In the library, Zhi Rui took all cultivation related books and seated on the ground. After hours of skimming through Zhi Rui didn''t find anything relevant. It was almost morning, but hungriness kept her wide awake. Zhi Rui didn''t give up she put all the books back, a took another one, a folklore that exists since millenniums ago ''The war of calamities.'' Zhi Rui opened to cover. By the time the book was closed again, it was already noon. She was hungry but didn''t give it any attention, she was reflecting on what she read. It was almost a fairy tale, a legend from the past, the kind of thing the people tell children. But Zhi Rui couldn''t just let it go. The book talked about the war between demons and saints. At some time in the past, seven supreme demons and supreme seven saints resided in this realm. The demons were the embodiment of the seven capital sins, while the saints were the seven virtues themselves. They divided the realm in half and every single one of them had their own kingdoms, they fought tirelessly for an uncountable amount of years. But they never defeated the other. Until a hero succeeded in break their equilibrium. With time and sacrifice, all seven demons were defeated. The hero then warned the realm. Before their demise, Each of the demons sacrificed their power to put a curse on the realm, Every thousand of years someone who fits the demons'' criteria will receive their blessing. From then on, the last two supreme saints that survived rebuilt the world and the teachings. every person who showed the trait of one of the capital sin were condemned. But even like this, strong people kept appearing through the times and they all had at least one trait of the seven sins. ''it''s too similar.'' Thinking about the semblance the demon of lust has with herself. they all have one common characteristic, the dense raw power of their abilities. Red refined energy And they all have a kind of obsession In the book, of all seven sins, those blessed by lust died first, due to the blessing''s requeriment, that is to not deny one''s own desire because of consequences. They often would be discovered due to their wild and unrestrained nature. But that''s confusing Zhi Rui have the density power, but she did not act without restraint, her situations are good but she still put on the righteous hat. Suddenly she remembered the encyclopedia book, there''s a specific righteous cultivator that lived as a wanderer for all of his life, it is said that he spread joy wherever he walked. Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.He was killed when three sect leader of the demonic path caught him. In the fight, he took two of the demons lives and injured heavily the survivor before dying. Now, Zhi Rui doesn''t believe in selfless deeds. Everything is conditional. Why would a wondering poor righteous path master be so relentlessly pursued and killed by three old demonic monsters? People with the heart of a demon do not love things above their own life, they''ll not seek death. Something he did or have, caused deep fear of death in those old demons. And where a wonderer poor master can have such strength to face three people of the same level, and still kill two before his death? ''Every place he goes he spreads joy'' this phrase kept repeating on Zhi Rui head. Images kept passing through her head. General Cheng''s excitement about his daughter'' true face, Zheng Li entering the mansion holding his lips where she kissed him, Hilda''s blushing appearance because of their deep kiss, Zhun Xuying in ecstasy for forming a core and receiving the opportunity to have her revenge. She understood, she finally did. Zhi Rui breathed in deeply, she slowly sat cross-legged on the floor, her mind went to inside her inner core. what were a light red refined energy turned into blood red denser energy Seated cross-legged in the ground of the library between a stand of books, Zhi Rui''s shoulder''s were trembling, "PffthahahHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!"Without control unrestrained hysterical laugh.'' HEAVENS REALLY REWARD THE VIRTUOUS HAHAHAHAHAH!" The maids passing outside the library had chills on their backs the sardonic laugh spread through the manor, everyone near the library were scared away. Soon the whole area around gone silent. Zhi Rui calmed herself down, ''that righteous wonderer certainly had the blessing of lust, but he must have more understanding about lust. Thus roaming free and unrestrained for hundreds of years accumulating wealth an increasing his strength. by feeding his and other people''s desire "What is Lust?" Zhi Rui asked herself. people use lust to refer to sex, but the essence is in the pleasure of it, not the sex itself. Lust is not gluttony, you''re don''t want to consume, you want to taste, neither it is greed, owning or obtaining isn''t important, the important is to enjoy. lust is the sin that wants pleasure above anything else, regardless of consequence. the person who commits adultery knowing it''ll break another''s person''s heart, that''s lust the person who rather drink than spend sober time with anything else, that''s lust The person who puts it''s own desires above other people''s misery that''s lust The desire for the unnatural, obsession with pleasure. To pursue a desire even if it''s unlawful or wrong, that''s lust Above morality, above the right and wrong Lust is the embodiment of the act of indulging in the pleasure of meeting one own wishes regardless of consequence or damage. Lust is a person that will not deny or abstain from its heart''s desire. A Choice for a Lifetime Is Made Now, Not Later After Zhun Xuying went out to buy the brothel, she came back a day later. In the most elated mood, she reached her quarters, the maids had told her the Young lady was in the library and asked to not be disturbed. Her mood got better, now she has time to enjoy the package She ordered. humming a quiet song, Zhun Xuying reached her room. As the personal maid of the younger daughter, her quarters are big and luxurious, in the middle of the room, was a square wooden box. "Hehe" She paced around the box hearing the muffled sounds inside. it seems the sound of her entering the room, agitated what''s inside. With bare fingers, she snapped the top of the box and the four panes fall to the side. Zhun Xuying didn''t look yet, she wanted it to be perfect, so she went to the end of her room took a bottle of wine similar to what her young miss drink. she grabbed a chair, dragged it to a meter distance from where the box is. the foul odor of urine and ill body aroma could already be smelt on the air. Zhun Xuying finally looked inside the box, precisely at the man tied on a chair in the middle of it. He had sweat all over his body, urine at his feet, an expression of terror on his face. the moment light hit his face and he opened his eyes he recognized the woman in front of him and knew his life was over. But the terror didn''t come from death. he lived in a cutthroat world, death is the good end but in her hands, in the hands of a woman that was born and raised there, he''ll suffer. "Haha, we really are husband and wife, you only needed a look at me once to know where this is all going, Hahaha" The man started crying while mumbling incoherent words as if praying. Zhun Xuying laugh got louder and she started trembling. "Miss Xuying, The general is calling for you." The mood was broken and Zhun Xuying''s face twisted up. This man tortured her since they were young until now. The image of him selling her young boy, the only thing she ever loved, away still burned on her head at night. She wanted to get him yesterday, but as soon as she went away with her savior he runaway to another part of the city with a new name. She had to spend 5 crystals to bring him here. This is the second time her desire is frustrated. But with a calm voice, she answered "Thank you Miss Xuer, I''m going to prepare then I''ll be on the way." It''s stupid to show displeasure, after all, the one on the door is the late steward''s wife. Even though she, herself, having an affair with the master of the house, she still cannot surpass this woman''s status on the house. Instead, she focused on the tied man''s slightly relieved eyes, she had to smash this little hope. "The master wants a report on his daughter and have some fun. But even though I enjoy it a lot, I''ll cut it short, so I can play with you. take this piss stunk air well in your lungs. you won''t be able to, very soon." The man eyes looked empty, she chuckled and went away. Zhun Xuying went out, unhurried. What to say and what to answer was already instructed by Zhi Rui. In the beginning, there was doubt. She was between two beasts, betrayed both of them, and had no way to scape, She has to choose a side in the hope to live. but in the end Zhi Rui is the only possible side, while the general is a lustful man, he''s also smart and ruthless, a beautiful woman is only useful for sex, and sex he can get everywhere. Zhi Rui while ruthless, she has more uses for her. And if Zhi Rui is being truthful about bringing her to the Light Sect, then it''s even more reason to keep on her side. Now she only needs to demonstrate her decision to Zhi Rui, while not much, it''s still necessary. Zhun Xuying knocked on general''s quarters. "Come in" A rough voice came from inside. Softly Zhun Xuying entered. General Cheng stared at her, like looking at a piece of meat. He took his clothes off. "Let''s start, you can speak with while moaning" Zhun Xuying nodded with a smile. "As the General commands." Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author. ------------ Four hours later, by the end of the day. Zhun Xuying got out of the master''s quarters. Satisfaction and leisure were on her face. Strangely there were more maids than normal around, She reached for a maid that was looking at her face and inquired why it''s so tumultuous. The answer she got, they heard young lady was laughing weirdly inside the library and people got scar off. Zhun Xuying chuckled, and walked directly in the direction of the library, she purposefully looked a little wobbly, showing it off will reinforce her position with the servants. She needs all support she can get. The library has a hallway direct to the side of the manor''s main quarters. Zhi Rui was already outside the door when Zhun Xuying started walking towards her, She saw how she wobbled from time to time and laughed like a child. "Young lady, good afternoon, I have bought the place. once the young lord''s name was mentioned, The owner handed the place over as a gift. The only money spent was to Reform the place as young lady asked." "Good, tomorrow come to my room, I need you to do something. "Yes, young lady" Zhun Xuying then spoke softly"Young lady wanna know how it was this time?" Zhi Rui stopped, then understood, she asked about the report with her father. "Unless there''s something unusual about him and you did as told, then everything else does not matter now. After two days refining energy and one whole night on the library, I need some relief, wanna come? I won''t eat you." Zhun Xuying was startled, this miss of hers not once has shown any emotion for her betrayal, instead, she bought her a core and gifted her revenge. while Zhun Xuying didn''t believe at all on good hearts, but the fact this beast in front of her, did not despise or looked down on her, instead she .wanted her to join on a good time. In a twisted kind of way, she felt this girl in front of her wasn''t bad. She gave a bow "I''m sorry Young lady, I brought something to work on from that side of the city, and cannot accompany you." "Oh? as long as you remember your image, it''s okay to do anything, now what did you bring?" The implying meaning was obvious, Zhun Xuying image reflects Zhi Rui''s. Hence whatever thing she wants to do, she''ll need an excuse. Zhun Xuying didn''t think long, in fact, she already decided on making an image to herself while in the brothel, and she''ll use her husband''s life to do it. She erected himself with firm eyes and spoke, loud enough to the maids that were coming back to hear. "Young lady as in the letter from the Young Lord. I bought the brothel on the edge of the slums, there, I found sinners a lot them. I executed them on the spot even if it''s a brothel it cannot have such heinous beings. As such, I brought one of them to be made an example. My Ex-husband, tomorrow I''ll execute him in public. that kind of animal has no right to be illuminated by the light of God. Zhi Rui stood still, ''first the cannibal mantis, now executing sinners? She wanted to laugh, what a good thinking, this way Zhun Xuying can be the hard part oh her own ''soft'' personality, thus making herself more useful. Maybe this is her way of telling me she chose to follow me in the future?'' ''What a cute woman. Xuying, if you did not stand useful on my side then naturally I would''ve made sure you wouldn''t be useful to anyone else.'' "I know it''s my brother words and I don''t have a way to meddle but please treat the people inside well, nobody needs to suffer." Zhi Rui spoke as if in pain. "Young lady need not to worry, those that can''t defend themselves will be spared." Zhun Xuying spoke righteously After this show, Zhi Rui told Zhun Xuying to leave. Both of them went their ways and no one was observing, Zhun Xuying thought about what to do with her husband and got more excited at each step. Zhi Rui went to her own room and finally decided on what core she''ll refine, and how she''ll prepare to rob the black market. She smiled, She''ll finally get some excitement herself. All Prepared, Now Action. Zhi Rui laid on the soft mat, reading her encyclopedia. disheveled hair, loose sleeping robes. She just woke up. She looked at her door, she could feel somebody coming. "come in." She didn''t wait for the knock. Zhun Xuying wasn''t surprised, she entered. The size of the room was the same as before but everything inside was luxurious. "Young lady, this servant did everything that was on the letter" Zhun Xuying put a wooden box on the ground. Zhi Rui looked at the box nodded then said. "Xuying prepare yourself for the end of this week, we''ll have some action. Zhun Xuying stood silent, gave nod and went away. ''She seemed nervous.'' Zhi Rui though. As the door closed Zhi Rui threw a hope stone on the ground in front of her and waited. The clear image of Hilda appeared it was around eight in the morning but opposed to Zhi Rui, Hilda was wearing her gear, fully prepared for the day. The lazy image of the disheveled Zhir Rui who just woke up amused Hilda. "A beauty calling for me first thing in the morning, I''m flattered." "don''t be. Now business, tell me your answer."Zhi Rui lazily sat up with crossed legs "Yesterday you told me to answer after the week, now you''re pushing me the day after?. Hilda looked at the girl with a weird gaze. "Hilda, competent people get the work done fast, I asked you today because I know you already have an answer. I also know what your answer is, so let''s go over the details?" Hilda''s eyes went wide,"What do you know?" Zhi Rui smiled, "Your mistake was putting too much quality on your information gathering, no common rank 2 mercenaries could have those names. A person that can get these kinds of names is not common. but it''s also abnormal for someone so competent, to not be able to get a common level three core. So I''m guessing, the core you want is uncommon? Hilda looked at the girl with indifferent eyes, "I am an Assassin, the core I need is in possession of a powerful noble." Zhi Rui understood, a rank two assassin, killing people above your cultivation is hard, even more for Hilda who has a cautious personality. Zhi Rui chuckled "So you need me more than I thought." Hilda still have her indifferent gaze, she didn''t answer, after all, it was true. She already had the answer yesterday, when Zhun Xuying came to deliver crystals and a letter in the name of Zhi Rui. Hilda simply nodded and took the stone off the ground. finishing the connection. "An assassin, that''ll be useful." Hilda shutting communication didn''t anger Zhi Rui. When Hilda nodded, it meant that she''ll act in accord with the letter. Zhi Rui took the box Zhun Xuing brought, She opened it. a warm blue colored bean sized core inside. The blue flame moth''s core, these small beast''s ability are simple but good. they have the blue flame that encloses them while they heating themselves on a common fire. the blue flame on their body has a minor healing ability. Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.but it''s illusions are its main Defense. While running from predator''s they spread particles from the blue fire in the air, altering light and color tones and if ingested in any way, cause illusions making the one lingering lose their minds. Once safe they hide and heal themselves slowly with the flame. For the average person is not worth it. the only useful ability is its illusion effect, and that can help you to scape but not attack, People who choose it as it''s first core, are people who did not have another choice. But Zhi Rui focused on another point. Moths are animals that survive primarily on their senses, the reason why people have to choose well on their first core is that it dictates how your cultivation will be from then on. every time you define a core, it''s essence nourishes your inner core, so if your first core is a strength-based then your inner core will evolve around strength, you can nourish with other types of cores but it''ll be less effective. So When Zhi Rui refine this moth core, her cultivation will revolve around fire and illusion with minor healing and sensory abilities. she''ll use sensorial capabilities to compensate her lack of physical strength. And with the blessing of lust, her abilities are at least twice more powerful than a normal person. Now she''ll find a good expendable attack core and she''ll be ready to fight. Zhi Rui put a ''don''t disturb sign'' on the door and started refining her core She sat cross-legged on the floor and started the process With her mind inside the inner core, she swallowed the small blue core and started to dissolve the fire essence of the core on her red sea of refined energy. The leftover attributes of the core from the core were already assimilated by the inner core''s walls. Zhi Rui could feel the vibrations on the area around her, she almost could see forms with the vibrations of the air and soundwaves around. She can feel a warm current on her inner core, that now is slightly blue. She opened her eyes, Her body was wet with sweat, she looked outside, it was already morning again. ''the blessing of lust also helped in the refinement. this should last 3 days with the spiritual water, but with lust, it was faster. She lifted her hand direct a small amount of refined energy to her hand, suddenly small imperceptive blue powder puffed up and ignited into a small blue flame almost transparent on her finger. It wasn''t hot but it distorted the image around, she willed it and the flame took the form of a moth, it flew above her door and dispersed becoming as small as particles soon her closed door was open. She could see the ground outside but the image was static, but still, in a close fight, an action is taken in milliseconds. if you can even slightly influence a person''s perception, then you''re in the control of the fight. Zhun Xuying must not have refined her core yet, and Hilda must''ve already prepared her things. if it''s like this, Then let''s start earlier, to end it earlier. A Beast Will Fight Tooth and Nail for Its Territory "Izaya! we could not find the intruder! what happened here?!" Izaya studied the three rank two guards, one was a sweating fatass, another was thin pale unhealthy looking stick youngster, and a drunk old man arranging his pants. Must have been in the middle of his fun. ''Good with these three it''ll be easier.'' Izaya gestured to the forest area speaking "The slaves were supposed to wait here, but, that dead man said they tried to run away through the forest." ''This much is enough, these accommodated people won''t bother to think too much and will go along. When they confront whoever stole the slaves I can take Ilise and get away. In the middle of the forest, I will have the advantage.'' The fat man laughed out loud."Let''s Have some fun hunting those idiots haha! If a few die the masters won''t care." "I want to bring one home." the creepy thin Guard joined. "I''ll go inform the masters of what happened here." The old man just wanted to finish his business, so he stayed in the city. The other two laughed at him "Izaya you came with us! we''ll gather them and you bring them back. You can choose one of them for yourself, of course, only the old or men."The fat man saw Izaya still there. so he ordered him to lead the slaves back, this way they can come back earlier. "Then I will take seniors offer" Izaya bowed his head. He''d been hiding his cultivation since the beginning, things are looking promising. The three of them entered the forest. ---------- Zhun Xuying wearing heavy armor threw three slaves inside the carriage. both Zhun Xuying and Zhun Rui, went out of the city on the carriage, after they got out of the sight of the guards Zhun Xuying and Zhi Rui entered ten meters into the forest and stationed there. Zhun Xuying looked at the first slaves to reach here so soon, they were Beastman, the forest is their home so it''s a given, after, the Young and strong will come. I only have to secure those, old and weak are optional. Zhun Xuying thought she''d have to fight then capture them, but once again Zhi Rui impressed her. Zhun Xuying looked at the small fire pits spread around the clearing as if inviting people to form a circle around it and warm themselves. The slave''s faces would overflow with tears of joy and relief as they saw it, They would walk into the clearing praising young lady aloud, only to fall unconscious after inhaling the air around a few times. Just like the young lady said. ''The light at the end of the tunnel is an illusion created by hope.'' ----------- Zhi Rui was using the nighttime to hide on the crown of a leafy tree, the forest was hot and dry, not a single cool breeze, the smell of the wild was unpleasant in the least. But Zhi Rui had excitement in her eyes, she went thirty meters ahead of where the carriage stationed, so she can take the ran one pest out of the way. Zhi Rui closed her eyes and concentrated. The moth is a sensorial nocturnal beast, even with her eyes closed she can sense the air hitting the trees and boulders around her, The vibrations of the slaves and rank on masters, running on the ground gave their distance and numbers, together with her hearing she can almost form an image. discerning the hunters from the hunted, Zhi Rui smiled, then jumped ahead. ----------- "Do you all have a pile of shit as brain?! Some random person appears yelling about some heavenly sent Young lady is going to rescue you. and you just bet everything on it?!" A rank one guard screamed at 12 slaves that were on their knees The slaves didn''t answer. If they were sold as a slave their end would not be good either, might as well bet on hope. While the guard was screaming about how he''ll make their life miserable. Zhi Rui observed. There are twelve slaves here, and this one ranked guy keeping them in place, there must be at least one more, out capturing slaves. the guard kept kicking and spitting at the slaves. with the remaining energy, one of the slaves finally couldn''t take it anymore. An old man run away from the crowd and screamed "You pigs are gonna rot in hell! God will never accept people like you!" The guard was startled, he looked at the old man dumbfounded. "HAHA, so old man want some special attention I''ll give it to you then!" The guard walked to the old man grinning. suddenly the slaves heard a weird noise "ugh" The guard fell on his face. The slaves couldn''t understand until they saw a fist-sized rock impaled on the back of the guards head. Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more. Before they could think of anything else they heard a voice "Those who move will end up like the guard." They trembled, the voice was soft and beautiful, but it only make their hair stand. "Y-yes." they can fight against a monster if there''s a chance to live, but when death is right beside you, you do what it says. Zhi Rui made use of his attention to the old man and threw a rock, a due to her flame particles she blurred the sound of the rock cutting through the wind. Zhi Rui observed all around, seeing nobody else she went into the ground with the slaves "If you want to live, do as I say." -------------- Zhi Rui jumped on a tree again, the slaves told there were another two guards capturing slaves Zhi Rui waited patiently, she couldn''t know where they were, her sensory ability cover twenty-meter diameter. so if she stayed they would come back eventually to gather more slaves, and she would feel they coming with a twenty-meter advantage the ground started to vibrate, Zhi Rui got ahold of a one-meter long spikeless mace she brought on her back. She looked up and closed her eyes took a deep long breath. the ground vibrated more and more, now she could hear the footsteps. She looked at the ran one tall strong man coming in front with ten or so slaves behind him. on top of the tree, she didn''t move, from the tree to the ground was five-meter drop. She let him nearing when he reached three meters from the tree she screamed and threw the body of his companion right behind him the middle-aged rank one guard heard the scream and felt something above behind him, he didn''t think and threw a punch upwards. smash he felt a soft sensation when he realized it was a defenseless body. he knew it was too late, but still screamed "INTRUD-" Zhi Rui jumped off the tree at the moment he punched the body behind him and swung her mace downwards in his head. When she reached the ground she felt a gaze on her. ten meter behind the dead man was a slim saber wielding man. He looked at her coldly. Zhi Rui spat on the dead man''s corpse"annoying, you should die silently." she was sneering, but her situation was not good, the man ahead of her obviously know martial arts, and the saber is one of the fastest. unable to ambush him, the only option is to fight him head-on, but Zhi Rui still hadn''t strengthened her body, she cannot follow his speed. Zhi Rui stared as the man slowly walked in her direction wielding his saber horizontally at shoulder length, her heart rate went higher at each step. suddenly she thought of something, grinning her excitement grew the answer made her head lighter. against the Saberman''s predictions. Zhi Rui suddenly laughed upwards and burst forward in the man''s direction with her mace. her green eyes become red, madness all over her face. The man was cautious. He observed her speed and how much steps it would take to reach him. he stood on his defensive stance, staring at the mad woman running in his direction. "AAAAAAAAAHHHHH" Zhi Rui screamed when she reached him The man also reacted, when she was in three steps range, he took a step of his own and swung his saber horizontally at her neck, everything calculated, the saber tip went exactly where it is supposed to be, the sound of flesh being cut the smell of blood everything was as planned. except, the saber got stuck instead of cut through. He blinked, then he saw the sky for a brief moment, as his vision went down again he saw, his saber struck from her shoulder to her forearm then he saw her heavy mace coming downwards with her other hand, then he saw nothing more. "If a long fight will kill you, then you should bet everything on a single move" Zhi Rui was sweating, if he wasn''t influenced by her scream he would realize, what was a three-step distance was actually two. with her illusion blue flame altering the light making him calculate the wrong distance was simple, but martial arts people are a different breed. so she screamed to throw him off, then he took a step. now the distance between them was a mere step, which she used to block his attack with her arm and since the distance was different so was the strength, thus her bones were able to block the saber. Zhi Rui took the saber off her arms, and her wounds started burning with the moth''s blue flame slowly healing her arm. Zhi Rui looked all around her and couldn''t help but think, ''the night is just starting.''