"Take care, Master, esteemed Supreme Elders."
"Blessings upon you, Holy Lord, and our Supreme Elders."
Jiang Chen and Xie Zhen directed a respectful bow towards the spots once occupied by Ji Mingxiu and the Supreme Elders.
Next, Xie Zhen offered Jiang Chen an approving nod, his gaze radiating an aura of gratitude and respect before he too, faded from their sight.
His exit served as a silent consent to Ji Mingxiu's decision, entrusting the two girls under Jiang Chen's careful supervision.
"Until we meet again, Elder Xie Zhen."
Jiang Chen respectfully inclined his head towards the spot once filled by Xie Zhen.
'Could this be a byproduct of a certain cultivation method?'
This question arose in Jiang Chen's mind as he observed the stark contrast between Elder Xie Zhen's stoic demeanor and the vibrant personality of his granddaughter, Xie Xiaojing.
However, he quickly dismissed the fleeting thought, his attention refocusing on the pills nestled in his hand, his face illuminating with a spark of joy.
These pills were all top-grade, intended for the Heavenly Origin realm.
If traded using Villain Value points, they would demand a staggering tens of thousands!
Although he could not personally utilize these pills, he planned to clandestinely offer the soul-nourishing pills to Nangong Wan and Shangguan Ning!
Given their current condition, the soul-nourishing pills from the Heavenly Origin realm could likely bring about a positive impact.
Naturally, he would only distribute his portion after allocating the pills that Ji Ruxue and Xie Xiaojing did not require.
Following this, Jiang Chen stationed himself cross-legged beside the unconscious maidens, immersing himself in silent cultivation, patiently awaiting their awakening.
Time unfolded at its leisurely pace.
Two hours hence.
Stirring from their slumber, Ji Ruxue and Xie Xiaojing opened their eyes slowly, a touch of confusion flickering within their gaze.
They soon spotted a familiar face peering over them, brimming with a warm, reassuring smile.
"Have you awakened?"
"The treatment proved highly effective!"
Jiang Chen announced, his grin never faltering.
"Senior Brother Jiang Chen!"
"Jiang Chen, our savior!"
Upon seeing Jiang Chen so close, Ji Ruxue and Xie Xiaojing's eyes sparkled with an array of emotions, their joy and gratitude clearly reflected in their shimmering gaze.
Truth be told, during their infiltration by the Nether Demon Spiritual Qi, their minds had remained terrifyingly lucid, yet they were powerless against their own violent thoughts.
All attempts to combat this intrusion yielded no effect.
They had been rendered helpless, experiencing the slow decay of their bodies and spirits under the influence of that eerie power.
They were fully aware that once the corrosion completed, the resulting torment would surpass the pain of death itself.
Miraculously!
Thanks to Jiang Chen, they were spared such a fate!
"Excellent!"
"You're entirely safe now! You can relax, as long as I'm here, no harm will befall you!"
Jiang Chen nodded, his voice maturing slightly, imbued with a charming resonance.
"Senior Brother Jiang Chen, we are in your debt!"
Xie Xiaojing's grateful gaze met Jiang Chen's, her words heartfelt.
"Jiang Chen, we can't thank you enough!"
Ji Ruxue too, voiced her profound appreciation.
[Ding! The affection of the unpursued heroine Ji Ruxue towards you has notably amplified, reducing the protagonist's Heavenly Fate Value by 500 points!]
[Ding! You've acquired an additional 1,000 points of Villain Value!]
'Excellent!'
Jiang Chen listened to the system's prompt, a thrill of excitement coursing through his heart.
At this juncture, Ji Ruxue inquired with a hint of curiosity, "Jiang Chen, could you explain what happened to us?"
"You were infiltrated by the Nether Demon Spiritual Qi."
"My realm being superior and my constitution unique, I managed to resist it."
"When you were initially assailed by the Nether Demon Spiritual Qi, I alerted Master immediately!"
"Master hastened to transport you back here, yet he, along with the Supreme Elders, were at a loss. Luckily, as if by some fortunate coincidence, I encountered two seniors..."
Jiang Chen proceeded to explain the series of events in thorough detail.
As Jiang Chen explained, Ji Ruxue and Xie Xiaojing listened with widened eyes, periodically expressing their astonishment.
After comprehending the full scope of the situation, their gratitude and admiration for Jiang Chen deepened, especially in regards to his ability to expel the Nether Demon Spiritual Qi.
"Though you're now safe, you should still consume some pills to expedite your recovery."
"Moreover, Master instructed that once you awake, I am to escort you back."
Jiang Chen smiled and addressed the two women, "For the foreseeable future, I will keep a close watch on your conditions to guard against potential complications."
"Mmm, agreed!"
Neither Ji Ruxue nor Xie Xiaojing raised any objections.
After all, having been afflicted by the Nether Demon Spiritual Qi, and following the treatment, it was indeed prudent to remain under observation for some time.
"Let's get moving, then."
"After we arrive, you should take your medication!"
Jiang Chen nodded gently, "You're still unsteady, allow me to guide you!"
With that, Jiang Chen produced the jade flute flying artifact, entrusted to him by Ji Ruxue, and activated it.
Whoosh.
The jade flute expanded and hovered in mid-air.
Ji Ruxue, following habit, took her seat at the front, with Xie Xiaojing settling in at the back, ensconcing Jiang Chen in the middle.
Recovering from a serious ailment and feeling somewhat weak, they sat closer to Jiang Chen this time, seeking a sense of security in his presence.
Jiang Chen's smile lingered as he channelled his Yuan Power into the jade flute, transforming into a beam of light as they darted out of the Main Hall.
Simultaneously.
A system notification echoed.
[Ding! You have successfully altered the narrative, diminishing the protagonist Fang Yuan's Heavenly Fate Value by 500 points!]
[Ding! You've accrued an additional 1,000 points of Villain Value!]
The system alerts reverberated in his mind.
Managing to alter the storyline again, Jiang Chen was momentarily taken aback.
However, upon reflection, it wasn't entirely unexpected.
Thwarting Fang Yuan from intervening was a critical development, and Jiang Chen's successful treatment of Ji Ruxue and Xie Xiaojing was another key event.
These two circumstances didn't contradict each other.
'I'm curious to see my current Villain Value tally!'
With this thought, Jiang Chen opened his status panel, anticipation gleaming in his eyes.
[Host: Jiang Chen
Aptitude: Perfect Grade
Innate Talent: Eternal Boundless Body (Death Calamity True Dragon)
Realm: Early-stage Inquiring Journey
True Battle Power: Late-stage Inquiring Journey+
Cultivation Methods: Purple Heaven Dark Star Heavenly Scripture (Dao Palace, main cultivation), Silent Annihilation Heavenly Sword Secrets, Crimson Jade Clear Sky Scroll, Moonstride Starshift Steps, Dao Origin Bright Flow Chart, Great Martial Eight Ghostly Steps (Inquiring Journey, perfect-level), Wind Void Steps, Dormant Spirit Stirring Divine Secrets, Seven Extremes Body Refinement, Heavenly Spring Coalescing Sea Records, Void Rainbow Sword Technique (Heavenly Origin, perfect-level)... partially omitted
Main Equipment: Purple Orchid Meteor Leaf (Inquiring Journey, top-grade), Unbroken Thousand Strings Rainbow Boat (Heavenly Origin, top-grade), Shadowblade Sword (Heavenly Origin, lower-grade), Carefree Heavenly Extreme Robe (Heavenly Origin, lower-grade), Black Crystal Sky Piercing Shuttle (Mysterious Platform, top-grade)
Villain Value: 23,600 points
Black Heavenly Fate Value: 15,848 points
Heaven-Defying Fate Changer: Villain's Eye, Burning World Red Lotus, Eternal Vows Binding Ring, Wordless Heavenly Jade
System Mall: Level 2]
'Exceeding twenty thousand, not too shabby!'
'But the primary gain here is the weakening of Fang Yuan's Heavenly Fate Value!'
A smirk tugged at the corners of Jiang Chen's lips.
At that moment, they reached Ji Ruxue's abode.
Given its close proximity to Ji Mingxiu's dwelling, their journey was brief, inducing a twinge of disappointment in Jiang Chen.
Subsequently, the trio made their way into Ji Ruxue's palace.
"Jiang Chen."
"In the coming days, Xiaojing and I will be cohabiting."
"You can...you're welcome to reside in the adjacent quarters. In case of any incident, you can assist us promptly."
A blush tinted Ji Ruxue's cheeks as she addressed Jiang Chen.
Inviting a man to reside in her personal space was a novel experience for her.
How could she not be somewhat bashful?
Yet, given the potential for unexpected complications for both her and Xie Xiaojing, they had no other choice but to make this concession.
"Understood!"
"These pills were bestowed upon me by Master, Elder Xie Zhen, and the four Supreme Elders, to administer to you."
"At present, the 'Great Peace Cleansing Heart Profound Pill' is the most beneficial for your recovery, here, one each."
Nodding, Jiang Chen offered the pills to the two women with a congenial smile.
"Alright, understood!"
Ji Ruxue and Xie Xiaojing took the pills and proceeded onward.
Jiang Chen kept close behind.
Shortly thereafter, navigating through a series of pavilions and corridors, they arrived at a jade-hued three-story structure encircled by a courtyard.
This was Ji Ruxue's true domicile.
'Beginning today, I'll be residing in Ji Ruxue's abode!'
'I can't help but wonder how Fang Yuan will react once he learns of this, hehe!'
Jiang Chen's heart brimmed with silent mirth as he accompanied Ji Ruxue and Xie Xiaojing through the formation gateway into the jade-colored edifice.
"Take care, Master, esteemed Supreme Elders."
"Blessings upon you, Holy Lord, and our Supreme Elders."
Jiang Chen and Xie Zhen directed a respectful bow towards the spots once occupied by Ji Mingxiu and the Supreme Elders.
Next, Xie Zhen offered Jiang Chen an approving nod, his gaze radiating an aura of gratitude and respect before he too, faded from their sight.
His exit served as a silent consent to Ji Mingxiu's decision, entrusting the two girls under Jiang Chen's careful supervision.
"Until we meet again, Elder Xie Zhen."
Jiang Chen respectfully inclined his head towards the spot once filled by Xie Zhen.
'Could this be a byproduct of a certain cultivation method?'
This question arose in Jiang Chen's mind as he observed the stark contrast between Elder Xie Zhen's stoic demeanor and the vibrant personality of his granddaughter, Xie Xiaojing.
However, he quickly dismissed the fleeting thought, his attention refocusing on the pills nestled in his hand, his face illuminating with a spark of joy.
These pills were all top-grade, intended for the Heavenly Origin realm.
If traded using Villain Value points, they would demand a staggering tens of thousands!
Although he could not personally utilize these pills, he planned to clandestinely offer the soul-nourishing pills to Nangong Wan and Shangguan Ning!
Given their current condition, the soul-nourishing pills from the Heavenly Origin realm could likely bring about a positive impact.
Naturally, he would only distribute his portion after allocating the pills that Ji Ruxue and Xie Xiaojing did not require.
Following this, Jiang Chen stationed himself cross-legged beside the unconscious maidens, immersing himself in silent cultivation, patiently awaiting their awakening.
Time unfolded at its leisurely pace.
Two hours hence.
Stirring from their slumber, Ji Ruxue and Xie Xiaojing opened their eyes slowly, a touch of confusion flickering within their gaze.
They soon spotted a familiar face peering over them, brimming with a warm, reassuring smile.
"Have you awakened?"
"The treatment proved highly effective!"
Jiang Chen announced, his grin never faltering.
"Senior Brother Jiang Chen!"
"Jiang Chen, our savior!"
Upon seeing Jiang Chen so close, Ji Ruxue and Xie Xiaojing's eyes sparkled with an array of emotions, their joy and gratitude clearly reflected in their shimmering gaze.
Truth be told, during their infiltration by the Nether Demon Spiritual Qi, their minds had remained terrifyingly lucid, yet they were powerless against their own violent thoughts.
All attempts to combat this intrusion yielded no effect.
They had been rendered helpless, experiencing the slow decay of their bodies and spirits under the influence of that eerie power.
They were fully aware that once the corrosion completed, the resulting torment would surpass the pain of death itself.
Miraculously!
Thanks to Jiang Chen, they were spared such a fate!
"Excellent!"
"You're entirely safe now! You can relax, as long as I'm here, no harm will befall you!"
Jiang Chen nodded, his voice maturing slightly, imbued with a charming resonance.
"Senior Brother Jiang Chen, we are in your debt!"
Xie Xiaojing's grateful gaze met Jiang Chen's, her words heartfelt.
"Jiang Chen, we can't thank you enough!"
Ji Ruxue too, voiced her profound appreciation.
[Ding! The affection of the unpursued heroine Ji Ruxue towards you has notably amplified, reducing the protagonist's Heavenly Fate Value by 500 points!]
[Ding! You've acquired an additional 1,000 points of Villain Value!]
'Excellent!'
Jiang Chen listened to the system's prompt, a thrill of excitement coursing through his heart.
At this juncture, Ji Ruxue inquired with a hint of curiosity, "Jiang Chen, could you explain what happened to us?"
"You were infiltrated by the Nether Demon Spiritual Qi."
"My realm being superior and my constitution unique, I managed to resist it."
"When you were initially assailed by the Nether Demon Spiritual Qi, I alerted Master immediately!"
"Master hastened to transport you back here, yet he, along with the Supreme Elders, were at a loss. Luckily, as if by some fortunate coincidence, I encountered two seniors..."
Jiang Chen proceeded to explain the series of events in thorough detail.
As Jiang Chen explained, Ji Ruxue and Xie Xiaojing listened with widened eyes, periodically expressing their astonishment.
After comprehending the full scope of the situation, their gratitude and admiration for Jiang Chen deepened, especially in regards to his ability to expel the Nether Demon Spiritual Qi.
"Though you're now safe, you should still consume some pills to expedite your recovery."
"Moreover, Master instructed that once you awake, I am to escort you back."
Jiang Chen smiled and addressed the two women, "For the foreseeable future, I will keep a close watch on your conditions to guard against potential complications."
"Mmm, agreed!"
Neither Ji Ruxue nor Xie Xiaojing raised any objections.
After all, having been afflicted by the Nether Demon Spiritual Qi, and following the treatment, it was indeed prudent to remain under observation for some time.
"Let's get moving, then."
"After we arrive, you should take your medication!"
Jiang Chen nodded gently, "You're still unsteady, allow me to guide you!"
With that, Jiang Chen produced the jade flute flying artifact, entrusted to him by Ji Ruxue, and activated it.
Whoosh.
The jade flute expanded and hovered in mid-air.
Ji Ruxue, following habit, took her seat at the front, with Xie Xiaojing settling in at the back, ensconcing Jiang Chen in the middle.
Recovering from a serious ailment and feeling somewhat weak, they sat closer to Jiang Chen this time, seeking a sense of security in his presence.
Jiang Chen's smile lingered as he channelled his Yuan Power into the jade flute, transforming into a beam of light as they darted out of the Main Hall.
Simultaneously.
A system notification echoed.
[Ding! You have successfully altered the narrative, diminishing the protagonist Fang Yuan's Heavenly Fate Value by 500 points!]
[Ding! You've accrued an additional 1,000 points of Villain Value!]
The system alerts reverberated in his mind.
Managing to alter the storyline again, Jiang Chen was momentarily taken aback.
However, upon reflection, it wasn't entirely unexpected.
Thwarting Fang Yuan from intervening was a critical development, and Jiang Chen's successful treatment of Ji Ruxue and Xie Xiaojing was another key event.
These two circumstances didn't contradict each other.
'I'm curious to see my current Villain Value tally!'
With this thought, Jiang Chen opened his status panel, anticipation gleaming in his eyes.
[Host: Jiang Chen
Aptitude: Perfect Grade
Innate Talent: Eternal Boundless Body (Death Calamity True Dragon)
Realm: Early-stage Inquiring Journey
True Battle Power: Late-stage Inquiring Journey+
Cultivation Methods: Purple Heaven Dark Star Heavenly Scripture (Dao Palace, main cultivation), Silent Annihilation Heavenly Sword Secrets, Crimson Jade Clear Sky Scroll, Moonstride Starshift Steps, Dao Origin Bright Flow Chart, Great Martial Eight Ghostly Steps (Inquiring Journey, perfect-level), Wind Void Steps, Dormant Spirit Stirring Divine Secrets, Seven Extremes Body Refinement, Heavenly Spring Coalescing Sea Records, Void Rainbow Sword Technique (Heavenly Origin, perfect-level)... partially omitted
Main Equipment: Purple Orchid Meteor Leaf (Inquiring Journey, top-grade), Unbroken Thousand Strings Rainbow Boat (Heavenly Origin, top-grade), Shadowblade Sword (Heavenly Origin, lower-grade), Carefree Heavenly Extreme Robe (Heavenly Origin, lower-grade), Black Crystal Sky Piercing Shuttle (Mysterious Platform, top-grade)
Villain Value: 23,600 points
Black Heavenly Fate Value: 15,848 points
Heaven-Defying Fate Changer: Villain's Eye, Burning World Red Lotus, Eternal Vows Binding Ring, Wordless Heavenly Jade
System Mall: Level 2]
'Exceeding twenty thousand, not too shabby!'
'But the primary gain here is the weakening of Fang Yuan's Heavenly Fate Value!'
A smirk tugged at the corners of Jiang Chen's lips.
At that moment, they reached Ji Ruxue's abode.
Given its close proximity to Ji Mingxiu's dwelling, their journey was brief, inducing a twinge of disappointment in Jiang Chen.
Subsequently, the trio made their way into Ji Ruxue's palace.
"Jiang Chen."
"In the coming days, Xiaojing and I will be cohabiting."
"You can...you're welcome to reside in the adjacent quarters. In case of any incident, you can assist us promptly."
A blush tinted Ji Ruxue's cheeks as she addressed Jiang Chen.
Inviting a man to reside in her personal space was a novel experience for her.
How could she not be somewhat bashful?
Yet, given the potential for unexpected complications for both her and Xie Xiaojing, they had no other choice but to make this concession.
"Understood!"
"These pills were bestowed upon me by Master, Elder Xie Zhen, and the four Supreme Elders, to administer to you."
"At present, the 'Great Peace Cleansing Heart Profound Pill' is the most beneficial for your recovery, here, one each."
Nodding, Jiang Chen offered the pills to the two women with a congenial smile.
"Alright, understood!"
Ji Ruxue and Xie Xiaojing took the pills and proceeded onward.
Jiang Chen kept close behind.
Shortly thereafter, navigating through a series of pavilions and corridors, they arrived at a jade-hued three-story structure encircled by a courtyard.
This was Ji Ruxue's true domicile.
'Beginning today, I'll be residing in Ji Ruxue's abode!'
'I can't help but wonder how Fang Yuan will react once he learns of this, hehe!'
Jiang Chen's heart brimmed with silent mirth as he accompanied Ji Ruxue and Xie Xiaojing through the formation gateway into the jade-colored edifice.
