Chapter 33
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Sleeping in Duan Zhen’s embrace made it easy for Li Xi to linger in bed. The man was like a furnace, continuously radiating warmth. Li Xi had always been susceptible to the cold. Although magic could ward off the chill, there was nothing like snuggling up to a natural source of heat.
His tail curled on Duan Zhen’s leg, face buried in his neck. Duan Zhen gently shook him. Instead of opening his eyes, Li Xi nuzzled against him.
“It’s time to get up,” Duan Zhen shook his shoulder.
“Let’s sleep a bit more,” Li Xi murmured, arms around Duan Zhen’s waist, snuggling closer, “No rush.”
This was the first time Duan Zhen had seen him reluctant to get up. He intended to continue urging him, but his gaze fell on the young man’s waist. The red marks had mostly faded, but due to his fair skin, they were still visible.
Yesterday, Li Xi must have been quite frightened. Thinking of this, Duan Zhen’s heart softened a bit, and he allowed him to sleep a little longer.
Li Xi slept for another hour. When he had enough rest, others had already finished their preparations and explored the city.
“Good morning.” Although just waking up, Li Xi was already scheming in his mind. He stretched lazily and comfortably nestled in Duan Zhen’s arms, unwilling to get up. “It’s been a while since I slept so comfortably. Being hugged by Brother Duan really helps with sleep.”
Duan Zhen raised an eyebrow.
“I’m naturally cold. I can never get warm sleeping alone,” Li Xi sighed. He placed his hand into Duan Zhen’s: “Feel it.”
Duan Zhen instinctively held it. Indeed, Li Xi’s hand was cold, not at a normal temperature.
He remembered the times they held hands before. Li Xi’s hands felt like ice.
“Being cold primarily indicates a weak body,” he said after a moment of silence. “Eat more and nourish your body when we return.”
Li Xi glanced at him. “Just that?”
Duan Zhen knocked on his head. “Get up quickly.”
Li Xi, somewhat wronged, swam away. Duan Zhen stood there, suddenly laughed, shook his head, and followed him.
Today, they had planned to find another type of ingredient, but Li Xi insisted on going back to the abyss. He allowed the others to either find the rest on their own or accompany him to the abyss.
“We’ll follow you,” the others said after exchanging glances.
Li Xi didn’t feel surprised by this result. With a disdainful “Oh,” he reached out to pull Duan Zhen: “Brother Duan, let’s go.”
This time to the abyss, he found the place where the octopus appeared last time and quickly discovered the octopus’s nest.
“Is there something here?” the green-tailed merman asked.
“A shortcut to completing the mission,” Li Xi replied.
He raised his hand, causing water currents to sweep away the sand covering the area. A stone statue appeared in front of everyone.
“What is this?” The merfolk present changed their expressions.
A mysterious pressure spread in the water. They almost couldn’t control their bodies, gradually bending over, making a bowing motion.
Li Xi frowned, turning around and hiding behind Duan Zhen, whispering, “This is a statue of the sea god. We need to complete the mission from him.”
Duan Zhen’s gaze shifted from the merfolk still bowing to the statue.
The statue depicted a young man with curly medium-length hair, wearing a magnificent robe, and holding a trident. He had a smiling face, looking straight ahead.
As Duan Zhen stared, he felt the eyes of the statue move, meeting his gaze.
He was surprised, calmly looked away, and when he looked again, the peculiar movement had disappeared.
The merfolk were finally able to straighten their waists and were no longer under control.
“What’s going on?” the red-tailed merman exclaimed. “This statue is too eerie!”
“Shh,” Li Xi raised a finger to his lips. “This is the sea god’s altar. Speaking ill of him here will be heard.”
The red-tailed merman widened his eyes, “Sea god?”
He quickly scrutinized the statue. Just now, unable to resist the pressure, he had bowed his head. Now, upon closer inspection, the actions and the weapon were undoubtedly those of the sea god.
“Why are we coming to the Sea God’s altar?” the black-tailed merman asked calmly.
“This matter has nothing to do with you guys,” Li Xi shrugged. “It’s mainly on the human side; using potions to transform into merfolk might be irreversible. That’s why we’ve come to the Sea God.”
“Will the Sea God help us?” someone questioned.
“That’s your concern,” Li Xi smirked. “Perhaps you have to offer a sacrifice that pleases him for him to agree. It’s none of my business, anyway.”
After saying this, he beckoned to Duan Zhen, “Brother Duan, come here, I need to talk to you.”
Duan Zhen followed him to the side, and Li Xi whispered, “Afterward, I’ll visit the palace to inquire about the Sea God from the king. Don’t always assist them. Even if they complete the mission relying on you this time, they’ll likely fail next time. It’s better to let them gain some experience here.”
“What do you intend to do?” Duan Zhen sensed mischief in his words.
“Actually, if magic and talent are sufficient, merfolk can communicate with the Sea God,” Li Xi confidently fabricated. “My talents are exceptional, and I plan to attempt direct communication with the Sea God, ask what offerings he requires.”
Duan Zhen furrowed his brows, “Directly communicate with the Sea God?”
He used to be an atheist, and after experiencing a terrifying world, he had lost any favor for so-called deities. Especially in this seemingly calm ocean, one could only imagine the temperament of the Sea God.
Adding to the fact that all creatures here were obsessed with appearances, Duan Zhen even worried that the Sea God might demand Li Xi as a sacrifice directly.
“Nothing will happen,” Li Xi hugged him, smiling mischievously. “They all say I’m the Sea God’s most beloved creation; he won’t trouble me.”
As he spoke, Duan Zhen became even more concerned.
“Perhaps, it’s better to test with a sacrifice first,” he frowned. “Rashly contacting the divine in this world is not a good choice.”
“Really, it’s fine,” Li Xi assured. “I have a trump card. Relax, Duan Duan.”
Seemingly unintentionally, he let slip an endearing nickname, hastily covering his mouth, and smiled to appease Duan Zhen.
At this point, Duan Zhen was not too concerned about a term of endearment. Seeing that Li Xi seemed determined, he said, “Okay, but when you make contact, I’ll be by your side.”
“Sure,” Li Xi readily agreed, making Duan Zhen wonder if he was being manipulated.
This version of Li Xi in this world was different from their previous interactions. If before he was a pitiful kitten, trembling and hiding beside people, now he resembled a fox with a measured advance and retreat tactic.
The big tail provocatively swayed, and the little paws always tested the boundaries, but once he realized he crossed a line, he would immediately lie down, exposing a soft and vulnerable belly, whimpering in a pitiful manner.
Duan Zhen couldn’t genuinely be angry with him; each time, he could only sigh helplessly.
After talking with him on this side, Li Xi went directly to the palace.
The king was still in the crystal palace, adopting the same posture as when Li Xi last visited. It seemed that, as a king, he had to remain in this transparent palace, every action visible to his subjects.
Entering the palace, Li Xi handed the key to the Tail Transformation Pool to him, saying, “It’s for you.”
The king raised his eyes to look at him, revealing a smile. “Did you meet the Sea God, my lord?”
“Not yet,” Li Xi shook his head. “I just unexpectedly found the altar.”
“Unexpectedly?” The king chuckled softly. “You even received a decree from Ukel, something that hasn’t happened in hundreds of years.”
“What are you trying to say?” Li Xi looked at him.
“Just a little curious,” the king said with a smile. “For hundreds of years, no matter how people prayed, no one received a response from the Sea God. Yet, you made him issue a decree willingly.”
Li Xi coldly remarked, “Isn’t that how gods are? In their long lives, they gradually lose emotions, even former beloved subjects become indifferent ants. As for his interest in me, it’s probably because he sees a variable.”
“Your impression of gods doesn’t sound favorable,” the king laughed.
“What kind of offering do you think the Sea God would like?” Li Xi didn’t respond to his words but asked abruptly.
“Someone like you?” The king covered his lips with his hand. “Even a deity can’t resist your beauty.”
“… I’ll take that as a compliment,” Li Xi replied indifferently.
However, the king’s words gave him a slight inspiration.
Perhaps, using the so-called sacrifice, he could once again woo Duan Duan. But appearances and bodies have been used several times, with no significant effect. It’s time to try a different approach this time.
Ignoring the king, Li Xi contemplated while swimming outside.
The king resumed his seat on the throne, watching Li Xi’s figure recede into the distance. After a while, he sighed softly, “Love… human emotions are truly peculiar.”
Lost in his thoughts, Li Xi almost missed Duan Zhen waiting for him. Luckily, his Duan Duan radar gave a warning, prompting him to instinctively look up and slam the brakes, “Duan Duan, why are you waiting for me here?”
“They went back to discuss the sacrifice,” Duan Zhen said. “I saw you weren’t there, so I came to check.”
Outside the crystal palace, Li Xi and the king could be seen talking. Duan Zhen waited outside and witnessed the silly merman using his tail as brakes. “What are you thinking?” Duan Zhen asked.
“About the sacrifice,” Li Xi mumbled. “Even though I don’t want to deal with those people, Duan Duan, you also need the power of the Sea God. So, I asked the king, but he seems unclear.”
He called Duan Zhen ‘Duan Duan’ several times, and Duan Zhen slightly furrowed his brows. A term of endearment wasn’t a big deal, but this one seemed a bit childish, sounding like calling a child in kindergarten.
Since he entered elementary school, no one in his family had used such a name for him.
Li Xi immediately sensed what he was thinking and hurriedly hugged his arm, sadly saying, “Do you not like me calling you this way?”
Duan Zhen was about to say he didn’t quite like it when Li Xi quickly spoke up to prevent his words, “I’ve never really had friends. Hearing others affectionately calling each other nicknames makes me envious. I know, Duan Duan… Brother Duan, you don’t like me, but aside from pursuing you, aren’t we even friends?”
Duan Zhen thought if his other friends called him ‘Duan Duan,’ he would’ve punched them long ago. However, seeing Li Xi’s pitiful expression, the words that came out of his mouth were, “Of course, we’re friends, but calling me this way doesn’t sound quite right.”
“It sounds good,” Li Xi blinked his eyes. “Then, how about calling you Zhen Zhen? Sounds like a girl’s name.”
Duan Zhen felt that using their names directly was fine, but before he could say it, Li Xi started crying and asked, “Why aren’t you saying anything? Do you want me to call you big brother? I knew you still see me as a child, thinking I’m like your little brother.”
Duan Zhen had a headache.
In the end, he compromised, “Just call me… Duan Duan, it’s fine.”
Lol Duan Zhen has no chances whatsover~
On another point I would HATE being the queen of mermaids in this world if that involved me staying in a crystal castle to be LOOKED at everyone all day long ;-;
Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!
Sleeping in Duan Zhen’s embrace made it easy for Li Xi to linger in bed. The man was like a furnace, continuously radiating warmth. Li Xi had always been susceptible to the cold. Although magic could ward off the chill, there was nothing like snuggling up to a natural source of heat.
His tail curled on Duan Zhen’s leg, face buried in his neck. Duan Zhen gently shook him. Instead of opening his eyes, Li Xi nuzzled against him.
“It’s time to get up,” Duan Zhen shook his shoulder.
“Let’s sleep a bit more,” Li Xi murmured, arms around Duan Zhen’s waist, snuggling closer, “No rush.”
This was the first time Duan Zhen had seen him reluctant to get up. He intended to continue urging him, but his gaze fell on the young man’s waist. The red marks had mostly faded, but due to his fair skin, they were still visible.
Yesterday, Li Xi must have been quite frightened. Thinking of this, Duan Zhen’s heart softened a bit, and he allowed him to sleep a little longer.
Li Xi slept for another hour. When he had enough rest, others had already finished their preparations and explored the city.
“Good morning.” Although just waking up, Li Xi was already scheming in his mind. He stretched lazily and comfortably nestled in Duan Zhen’s arms, unwilling to get up. “It’s been a while since I slept so comfortably. Being hugged by Brother Duan really helps with sleep.”
Duan Zhen raised an eyebrow.
“I’m naturally cold. I can never get warm sleeping alone,” Li Xi sighed. He placed his hand into Duan Zhen’s: “Feel it.”
Duan Zhen instinctively held it. Indeed, Li Xi’s hand was cold, not at a normal temperature.
He remembered the times they held hands before. Li Xi’s hands felt like ice.
“Being cold primarily indicates a weak body,” he said after a moment of silence. “Eat more and nourish your body when we return.”
Li Xi glanced at him. “Just that?”
Duan Zhen knocked on his head. “Get up quickly.”
Li Xi, somewhat wronged, swam away. Duan Zhen stood there, suddenly laughed, shook his head, and followed him.
Today, they had planned to find another type of ingredient, but Li Xi insisted on going back to the abyss. He allowed the others to either find the rest on their own or accompany him to the abyss.
“We’ll follow you,” the others said after exchanging glances.
Li Xi didn’t feel surprised by this result. With a disdainful “Oh,” he reached out to pull Duan Zhen: “Brother Duan, let’s go.”
This time to the abyss, he found the place where the octopus appeared last time and quickly discovered the octopus’s nest.
“Is there something here?” the green-tailed merman asked.
“A shortcut to completing the mission,” Li Xi replied.
He raised his hand, causing water currents to sweep away the sand covering the area. A stone statue appeared in front of everyone.
“What is this?” The merfolk present changed their expressions.
A mysterious pressure spread in the water. They almost couldn’t control their bodies, gradually bending over, making a bowing motion.
Li Xi frowned, turning around and hiding behind Duan Zhen, whispering, “This is a statue of the sea god. We need to complete the mission from him.”
Duan Zhen’s gaze shifted from the merfolk still bowing to the statue.
The statue depicted a young man with curly medium-length hair, wearing a magnificent robe, and holding a trident. He had a smiling face, looking straight ahead.
As Duan Zhen stared, he felt the eyes of the statue move, meeting his gaze.
He was surprised, calmly looked away, and when he looked again, the peculiar movement had disappeared.
The merfolk were finally able to straighten their waists and were no longer under control.
“What’s going on?” the red-tailed merman exclaimed. “This statue is too eerie!”
“Shh,” Li Xi raised a finger to his lips. “This is the sea god’s altar. Speaking ill of him here will be heard.”
The red-tailed merman widened his eyes, “Sea god?”
He quickly scrutinized the statue. Just now, unable to resist the pressure, he had bowed his head. Now, upon closer inspection, the actions and the weapon were undoubtedly those of the sea god.
“Why are we coming to the Sea God’s altar?” the black-tailed merman asked calmly.
“This matter has nothing to do with you guys,” Li Xi shrugged. “It’s mainly on the human side; using potions to transform into merfolk might be irreversible. That’s why we’ve come to the Sea God.”
“Will the Sea God help us?” someone questioned.
“That’s your concern,” Li Xi smirked. “Perhaps you have to offer a sacrifice that pleases him for him to agree. It’s none of my business, anyway.”
After saying this, he beckoned to Duan Zhen, “Brother Duan, come here, I need to talk to you.”
Duan Zhen followed him to the side, and Li Xi whispered, “Afterward, I’ll visit the palace to inquire about the Sea God from the king. Don’t always assist them. Even if they complete the mission relying on you this time, they’ll likely fail next time. It’s better to let them gain some experience here.”
“What do you intend to do?” Duan Zhen sensed mischief in his words.
“Actually, if magic and talent are sufficient, merfolk can communicate with the Sea God,” Li Xi confidently fabricated. “My talents are exceptional, and I plan to attempt direct communication with the Sea God, ask what offerings he requires.”
Duan Zhen furrowed his brows, “Directly communicate with the Sea God?”
He used to be an atheist, and after experiencing a terrifying world, he had lost any favor for so-called deities. Especially in this seemingly calm ocean, one could only imagine the temperament of the Sea God.
Adding to the fact that all creatures here were obsessed with appearances, Duan Zhen even worried that the Sea God might demand Li Xi as a sacrifice directly.
“Nothing will happen,” Li Xi hugged him, smiling mischievously. “They all say I’m the Sea God’s most beloved creation; he won’t trouble me.”
As he spoke, Duan Zhen became even more concerned.
“Perhaps, it’s better to test with a sacrifice first,” he frowned. “Rashly contacting the divine in this world is not a good choice.”
“Really, it’s fine,” Li Xi assured. “I have a trump card. Relax, Duan Duan.”
Seemingly unintentionally, he let slip an endearing nickname, hastily covering his mouth, and smiled to appease Duan Zhen.
At this point, Duan Zhen was not too concerned about a term of endearment. Seeing that Li Xi seemed determined, he said, “Okay, but when you make contact, I’ll be by your side.”
“Sure,” Li Xi readily agreed, making Duan Zhen wonder if he was being manipulated.
This version of Li Xi in this world was different from their previous interactions. If before he was a pitiful kitten, trembling and hiding beside people, now he resembled a fox with a measured advance and retreat tactic.
The big tail provocatively swayed, and the little paws always tested the boundaries, but once he realized he crossed a line, he would immediately lie down, exposing a soft and vulnerable belly, whimpering in a pitiful manner.
Duan Zhen couldn’t genuinely be angry with him; each time, he could only sigh helplessly.
After talking with him on this side, Li Xi went directly to the palace.
The king was still in the crystal palace, adopting the same posture as when Li Xi last visited. It seemed that, as a king, he had to remain in this transparent palace, every action visible to his subjects.
Entering the palace, Li Xi handed the key to the Tail Transformation Pool to him, saying, “It’s for you.”
The king raised his eyes to look at him, revealing a smile. “Did you meet the Sea God, my lord?”
“Not yet,” Li Xi shook his head. “I just unexpectedly found the altar.”
“Unexpectedly?” The king chuckled softly. “You even received a decree from Ukel, something that hasn’t happened in hundreds of years.”
“What are you trying to say?” Li Xi looked at him.
“Just a little curious,” the king said with a smile. “For hundreds of years, no matter how people prayed, no one received a response from the Sea God. Yet, you made him issue a decree willingly.”
Li Xi coldly remarked, “Isn’t that how gods are? In their long lives, they gradually lose emotions, even former beloved subjects become indifferent ants. As for his interest in me, it’s probably because he sees a variable.”
“Your impression of gods doesn’t sound favorable,” the king laughed.
“What kind of offering do you think the Sea God would like?” Li Xi didn’t respond to his words but asked abruptly.
“Someone like you?” The king covered his lips with his hand. “Even a deity can’t resist your beauty.”
“… I’ll take that as a compliment,” Li Xi replied indifferently.
However, the king’s words gave him a slight inspiration.
Perhaps, using the so-called sacrifice, he could once again woo Duan Duan. But appearances and bodies have been used several times, with no significant effect. It’s time to try a different approach this time.
Ignoring the king, Li Xi contemplated while swimming outside.
The king resumed his seat on the throne, watching Li Xi’s figure recede into the distance. After a while, he sighed softly, “Love… human emotions are truly peculiar.”
Lost in his thoughts, Li Xi almost missed Duan Zhen waiting for him. Luckily, his Duan Duan radar gave a warning, prompting him to instinctively look up and slam the brakes, “Duan Duan, why are you waiting for me here?”
“They went back to discuss the sacrifice,” Duan Zhen said. “I saw you weren’t there, so I came to check.”
Outside the crystal palace, Li Xi and the king could be seen talking. Duan Zhen waited outside and witnessed the silly merman using his tail as brakes. “What are you thinking?” Duan Zhen asked.
“About the sacrifice,” Li Xi mumbled. “Even though I don’t want to deal with those people, Duan Duan, you also need the power of the Sea God. So, I asked the king, but he seems unclear.”
He called Duan Zhen ‘Duan Duan’ several times, and Duan Zhen slightly furrowed his brows. A term of endearment wasn’t a big deal, but this one seemed a bit childish, sounding like calling a child in kindergarten.
Since he entered elementary school, no one in his family had used such a name for him.
Li Xi immediately sensed what he was thinking and hurriedly hugged his arm, sadly saying, “Do you not like me calling you this way?”
Duan Zhen was about to say he didn’t quite like it when Li Xi quickly spoke up to prevent his words, “I’ve never really had friends. Hearing others affectionately calling each other nicknames makes me envious. I know, Duan Duan… Brother Duan, you don’t like me, but aside from pursuing you, aren’t we even friends?”
Duan Zhen thought if his other friends called him ‘Duan Duan,’ he would’ve punched them long ago. However, seeing Li Xi’s pitiful expression, the words that came out of his mouth were, “Of course, we’re friends, but calling me this way doesn’t sound quite right.”
“It sounds good,” Li Xi blinked his eyes. “Then, how about calling you Zhen Zhen? Sounds like a girl’s name.”
Duan Zhen felt that using their names directly was fine, but before he could say it, Li Xi started crying and asked, “Why aren’t you saying anything? Do you want me to call you big brother? I knew you still see me as a child, thinking I’m like your little brother.”
Duan Zhen had a headache.
In the end, he compromised, “Just call me… Duan Duan, it’s fine.”
Lol Duan Zhen has no chances whatsover~
On another point I would HATE being the queen of mermaids in this world if that involved me staying in a crystal castle to be LOOKED at everyone all day long ;-;
Sleeping in Duan Zhen's embrace made it easy for Li Xi to linger in bed. The man was like a furnace, continuously radiating warmth. Li Xi had always been susceptible to the cold. Although magic could ward off the chill, there was nothing like snuggling up to a natural source of heat.His tail curled on Duan Zhen's leg, face buried in his neck. Duan Zhen gently shook him. Instead of opening his eyes, Li Xi nuzzled against him.It's time to get up, Duan Zhen shook his shoulder.Let's sleep a bit more, Li Xi murmured, arms around Duan Zhen's waist, snuggling closer, No rush.This was the first time Duan Zhen had seen him reluctant to get up. He intended to continue urging him, but his gaze fell on the young man's waist. The red marks had mostly faded, but due to his fair skin, they were still visible.Yesterday, Li Xi must have been quite frightened. Thinking of this, Duan Zhen's heart softened a bit, and he allowed him to sleep a little longer.Li Xi slept for another hour. When he had enough rest, others had already finished their preparations and explored the city.Good morning. Although just waking up, Li Xi was already scheming in his mind. He stretched lazily and comfortably nestled in Duan Zhen's arms, unwilling to get up. It's been a while since I slept so comfortably. Being hugged by Brother Duan really helps with sleep.Duan Zhen raised an eyebrow.I'm naturally cold. I can never get warm sleeping alone, Li Xi sighed. He placed his hand into Duan Zhen's: Feel it.Duan Zhen instinctively held it. Indeed, Li Xi's hand was cold, not at a normal temperature.He remembered the times they held hands before. Li Xi's hands felt like ice.Being cold primarily indicates a weak body, he said after a moment of silence. Eat more and nourish your body when we return.Li Xi glanced at him. Just that?Duan Zhen knocked on his head. Get up quickly.Li Xi, somewhat wronged, swam away. Duan Zhen stood there, suddenly laughed, shook his head, and followed him.Today, they had planned to find another type of ingredient, but Li Xi insisted on going back to the abyss. He allowed the others to either find the rest on their own or accompany him to the abyss.We'll follow you, the others said after exchanging glances.Li Xi didn't feel surprised by this result. With a disdainful Oh, he reached out to pull Duan Zhen: Brother Duan, let's go.This time to the abyss, he found the place where the octopus appeared last time and quickly discovered the octopus's nest.Is there something here? the green-tailed merman asked.A shortcut to completing the mission, Li Xi replied.He raised his hand, causing water currents to sweep away the sand covering the area. A stone statue appeared in front of everyone.What is this? The merfolk present changed their expressions.A mysterious pressure spread in the water. They almost couldn't control their bodies, gradually bending over, making a bowing motion.Li Xi frowned, turning around and hiding behind Duan Zhen, whispering, This is a statue of the sea god. We need to complete the mission from him.Duan Zhen's gaze shifted from the merfolk still bowing to the statue.The statue depicted a young man with curly medium-length hair, wearing a magnificent robe, and holding a trident. He had a smiling face, looking straight ahead.As Duan Zhen stared, he felt the eyes of the statue move, meeting his gaze.He was surprised, calmly looked away, and when he looked again, the peculiar movement had disappeared.The merfolk were finally able to straighten their waists and were no longer under control.What's going on? the red-tailed merman exclaimed. This statue is too eerie!Shh, Li Xi raised a finger to his lips. This is the sea god's altar. Speaking ill of him here will be heard.The red-tailed merman widened his eyes, Sea god?He quickly scrutinized the statue. Just now, unable to resist the pressure, he had bowed his head. Now, upon closer inspection, the actions and the weapon were undoubtedly those of the sea god.Why are we coming to the Sea God's altar? the black-tailed merman asked calmly.This matter has nothing to do with you guys, Li Xi shrugged. It's mainly on the human side; using potions to transform into merfolk might be irreversible. That's why we've come to the Sea God.Will the Sea God help us? someone questioned.That's your concern, Li Xi smirked. Perhaps you have to offer a sacrifice that pleases him for him to agree. It's none of my business, anyway.After saying this, he beckoned to Duan Zhen, Brother Duan, come here, I need to talk to you.Duan Zhen followed him to the side, and Li Xi whispered, Afterward, I'll visit the palace to inquire about the Sea God from the king. Don't always assist them. Even if they complete the mission relying on you this time, they'll likely fail next time. It's better to let them gain some experience here.What do you intend to do? Duan Zhen sensed mischief in his words.Actually, if magic and talent are sufficient, merfolk can communicate with the Sea God, Li Xi confidently fabricated. My talents are exceptional, and I plan to attempt direct communication with the Sea God, ask what offerings he requires.Duan Zhen furrowed his brows, Directly communicate with the Sea God?He used to be an atheist, and after experiencing a terrifying world, he had lost any favor for so-called deities. Especially in this seemingly calm ocean, one could only imagine the temperament of the Sea God.Adding to the fact that all creatures here were obsessed with appearances, Duan Zhen even worried that the Sea God might demand Li Xi as a sacrifice directly.Nothing will happen, Li Xi hugged him, smiling mischievously. They all say I'm the Sea God's most beloved creation; he won't trouble me.As he spoke, Duan Zhen became even more concerned.Perhaps, it's better to test with a sacrifice first, he frowned. Rashly contacting the divine in this world is not a good choice.Really, it's fine, Li Xi assured. I have a trump card. Relax, Duan Duan.Seemingly unintentionally, he let slip an endearing nickname, hastily covering his mouth, and smiled to appease Duan Zhen.At this point, Duan Zhen was not too concerned about a term of endearment. Seeing that Li Xi seemed determined, he said, Okay, but when you make contact, I'll be by your side.Sure, Li Xi readily agreed, making Duan Zhen wonder if he was being manipulated.This version of Li Xi in this world was different from their previous interactions. If before he was a pitiful kitten, trembling and hiding beside people, now he resembled a fox with a measured advance and retreat tactic.The big tail provocatively swayed, and the little paws always tested the boundaries, but once he realized he crossed a line, he would immediately lie down, exposing a soft and vulnerable belly, whimpering in a pitiful manner.Duan Zhen couldn't genuinely be angry with him; each time, he could only sigh helplessly.After talking with him on this side, Li Xi went directly to the palace.The king was still in the crystal palace, adopting the same posture as when Li Xi last visited. It seemed that, as a king, he had to remain in this transparent palace, every action visible to his subjects.Entering the palace, Li Xi handed the key to the Tail Transformation Pool to him, saying, It's for you.The king raised his eyes to look at him, revealing a smile. Did you meet the Sea God, my lord?Not yet, Li Xi shook his head. I just unexpectedly found the altar.Unexpectedly? The king chuckled softly. You even received a decree from Ukel, something that hasn't happened in hundreds of years.What are you trying to say? Li Xi looked at him.Just a little curious, the king said with a smile. For hundreds of years, no matter how people prayed, no one received a response from the Sea God. Yet, you made him issue a decree willingly.Li Xi coldly remarked, Isn't that how gods are? In their long lives, they gradually lose emotions, even former beloved subjects become indifferent ants. As for his interest in me, it's probably because he sees a variable.Your impression of gods doesn't sound favorable, the king laughed.What kind of offering do you think the Sea God would like? Li Xi didn't respond to his words but asked abruptly.Someone like you? The king covered his lips with his hand. Even a deity can't resist your beauty. I'll take that as a compliment, Li Xi replied indifferently.However, the king's words gave him a slight inspiration.Perhaps, using the so-called sacrifice, he could once again woo Duan Duan. But appearances and bodies have been used several times, with no significant effect. It's time to try a different approach this time.Ignoring the king, Li Xi contemplated while swimming outside.The king resumed his seat on the throne, watching Li Xi's figure recede into the distance. After a while, he sighed softly, Love human emotions are truly peculiar.Lost in his thoughts, Li Xi almost missed Duan Zhen waiting for him. Luckily, his Duan Duan radar gave a warning, prompting him to instinctively look up and slam the brakes, Duan Duan, why are you waiting for me here?They went back to discuss the sacrifice, Duan Zhen said. I saw you weren't there, so I came to check.Outside the crystal palace, Li Xi and the king could be seen talking. Duan Zhen waited outside and witnessed the silly merman using his tail as brakes. What are you thinking? Duan Zhen asked.About the sacrifice, Li Xi mumbled. Even though I don't want to deal with those people, Duan Duan, you also need the power of the Sea God. So, I asked the king, but he seems unclear.He called Duan Zhen Duan Duan' several times, and Duan Zhen slightly furrowed his brows. A term of endearment wasn't a big deal, but this one seemed a bit childish, sounding like calling a child in kindergarten.Since he entered elementary school, no one in his family had used such a name for him.Li Xi immediately sensed what he was thinking and hurriedly hugged his arm, sadly saying, Do you not like me calling you this way?Duan Zhen was about to say he didn't quite like it when Li Xi quickly spoke up to prevent his words, I've never really had friends. Hearing others affectionately calling each other nicknames makes me envious. I know, Duan Duan Brother Duan, you don't like me, but aside from pursuing you, aren't we even friends?Duan Zhen thought if his other friends called him Duan Duan,' he would've punched them long ago. However, seeing Li Xi's pitiful expression, the words that came out of his mouth were, Of course, we're friends, but calling me this way doesn't sound quite right.It sounds good, Li Xi blinked his eyes. Then, how about calling you Zhen Zhen? Sounds like a girl's name.Duan Zhen felt that using their names directly was fine, but before he could say it, Li Xi started crying and asked, Why aren't you saying anything? Do you want me to call you big brother? I knew you still see me as a child, thinking I'm like your little brother.Duan Zhen had a headache.In the end, he compromised, Just call me Duan Duan, it's fine.Lol Duan Zhen has no chances whatsover~On another point I would HATE being the queen of mermaids in this world if that involved me staying in a crystal castle to be LOOKED at everyone all day long ;-;
