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Dan Heng quietly explained to Su Jinyan, "Su-xiong, your guess was correct."
"Grandmaster Taoran wishes to invite me to Scalegorge Waterscape to repair the seal on the World Tree."
"This reason is plausible, given that the medicine-carrying Dragon Lady lacks the complete lineage of the High Elder and thus doesn't know how to mend such seals."
"If only I could restore the High Elder's power to Bailu..."
Su Jinyan nodded, understanding his sentiment. "I see what you mean. However, it's not yet time for you both to meet."
"You should first accompany Huan Xi to the ferry at Scalegorge Waterscape and wait there. Later, allow me to escort you both together as Bailu's representative."
Dan Heng sighed with relief; waiting wouldn't be an issue. He had a strong aversion to filth and didn't wish to traverse the contaminated Scalegorge Waterscape.
Scalegorge Waterscape was once a sacred site of the Vidyadhara Clan, but now it was overrun with disputes and chaos. The Vidyadhara people must have been driven nearly mad by this turn of events.
Initially, Su Jinyan planned to keep them waiting for another night. But since Dan Heng was heading to Scalegorge, it presented an opportune moment for Bailu to reveal her divine presence and resolve the situation swiftly.
"There's one more thing, Dan Heng," Su Jinyan continued. "While I'm not entirely sure why Grandmaster Taoran wants to meet with you, I hope you can subtly indicate your interest in contending for the Dragonlord's position."
Dan Heng acknowledged, "Understood."
Not long after Dan Heng left, Su Jinyan's phone vibrated—it was a video call from Bailu.
Bailu looked troubled as she addressed Su Jinyan, "I know what you've been doing at Scalegorge Waterscape."
"Although I understand you meant well, aiming to swiftly enhance my reputation among the Vidyadhara people..."
"I don't possess your ability to heal chronic ailments with a wave of your hand or bring the dead back to life."
"What will happen when our identities switch back?"
Stelle leaned close to Su Jinyan and suggested, "Bailu, I have a great idea."
"From now on, you'll be Su Jinyan, and Su Jinyan will be Bailu."
Bailu's expression turned subtle. "Honestly, this maiden might just want you to stay at the Alchemy Commission for a few days then."
March 7th vehemently objected, "No way! Little Su must remain Little Su; he can't become anyone else."
Su Jinyan smiled slightly, "Do you think I haven't considered that aspect?"
"Everything is under my control."
Bailu nodded obediently, "Mm, hearing this reassures this maiden greatly."
Jingliu took Bailu's phone and cautioned, "Xiao Didi, you must not neglect your abstinence practice."
"Starting tomorrow, come receive chastity training by my side once again—don't forget."
March 7's beautiful eyes filled with confusion. "Abstaining from lust? Why would you suddenly take up such a vow?"
Stelle sighed softly. "I know the reason, but to preserve Su Jinyan's dignity, I won't say it aloud."
Su Jinyan glared at Stelle. "Bullsh*t! You better explain why I should abstain from lust. If you can't provide a valid reason, I'll ensure there's no place for you on this Xianzhou anymore."
With sincerity, Stelle replied, "Kidney weakness often arises after excessive exertion."
"Experiencing back and leg pain, feeling drained, as if your body has been hollowed out."
"In my opinion, you truly need a period of abstinence to recuperate."
Su Jinyan nearly burst out laughing in disbelief. "Are you kidding me? My kidneys weak?"
Stelle, hands on hips, retorted, "What, is that not the case?"
Jingliu spoke coldly, "Allow me to attest on his behalf; Xiao Didi indeed suffers from kidney weakness."
"The Dragon Lady diagnosed him recently, noting that the closer he gets to beautiful young women, the more severe his condition becomes."
"For Xiao Didi's sake, please refrain from approaching him during this time."
Bailu remained silent, taken aback.
Stelle agreed, "Miss Jing Liu, you're right; March 7th should definitely keep her distance."
"Huh?" March 7th exclaimed, puzzled.
But then, Stelle abruptly changed tack. "However, I'm no longer considered a young woman."
"I'm Daddy's good girl; I'm exempt from such restrictions."
Jingliu raised an eyebrow.
March 7th couldn't resist teasing, "Hey, have you no sense of propriety left?"
Stelle looked disappointed, "Little March, I considered you a friend, but do you really want to be my stepmom?"
March 7th was rendered speechless.
Su Jinyan, reaching his breaking point, exclaimed, "Stop! All of you, just stop!"
"For the last time, my celibacy vow is solely for self-cultivation, not because of any weakness in my constitution."
Stelle glared menacingly, "Really? I don't believe it, unless you can prove otherwise."
"Unbelievable!" Su Jinyan muttered.
Jingliu narrowed her icy eyes, her reputation as ephemeral as dissipating clouds. The former Swordmaster of Luofu's renown was no longer enough to deter women harboring improper intentions towards Xiao Didi. Once this matter concluded, she would need to take things seriously.
With a faint blush on her cheeks, Silver Wolf finally couldn't help but ask, "Honestly, how boring! What exactly does he have that attracts all of you so much?"
"Is it worth fighting over like this? It seems utterly ridiculous," she continued. "I sincerely hope everyone distances themselves from A-Yan, letting him realize his true standing. Games are far more entertaining than A-Yan ever could be."
Stelle sneered and abruptly pushed aside the tea table. "Very well, before you say such words again—"
"Could you please move your jade foot first?"
The tender, snow-white foot that Su Jinyan had been caressing now came into full view before everyone's eyes.
March 7 angrily waved her small fists.
"Darn it! I was almost convinced by your words!"
Silver Wolf's expression shifted slightly, and she begrudgingly withdrew her delicate, snowy foot.
"I didn't even realize he'd taken hold of my foot."
"Silver Wolf, if only your gaming skills were as impressive as your acting." Stelle mercilessly exposed Silver Wolf's facade.
"...You've become quite uncharming," Silver Wolf retorted.
"(???)▄[┳一"
Knock, knock, knock—
Just then, another series of knocks sounded at the door.
Yun You, a close attendant of the High Elder, asked, "May I inquire if Sir Su Ziya is present here?"
Su Jinyan signaled to Silver Wolf and the others with his gaze, indicating they should hide.
"Yun You, what brings you here?" he responded.
Yun You questioned, "Are you aware of the miraculous deeds performed by the Dragon Lady within Scalegorge Waterscape?"
Su Jinyan's voice chilled as he said, "Come inside and speak."
Yun You pushed open the door, bowed respectfully, and began, "Sir Su Ziya, it is like this: The Dragon Lady she..."
Su Jinyan frowned, "Yun You, you should maintain the proper respect towards the Vidyadhara's Dragon Sovereign Bailu."
Yun You's expression shifted slightly. "Apologies," she murmured.
Su Jinyan decided to test Yun You further. "Yun You, I believe you've already noticed," he started cautiously. "Our Lady Bailu seems to have fully awakened her lineage as the Dragon Sovereign. Now, within the Vidyadhara clan, there is growing reverence for Bailu over others. Do you understand what this signifies?"
Hesitating, Yun You replied, "It means that soon, Lady Bailu's prestige among the Vidyadhara will surpass that of the Dragon Master Parliament. This could disrupt the balance between the Dragon Sovereign and the Dragon Master Parliament once again, potentially leading to a reenactment of the Imbibitor Lunae Rebellion."
Su Jinyan sighed deeply, a hint of murderous intent flickering in his eyes. He had given Yun You ample chances, even repeatedly signaling outright for her to show due respect to Dragon Sovereign Bailu. Unfortunately, Yun You failed to grasp his intentions—an outcome perhaps stemming from her long-standing arrogance.
To better control Bailu, the Dragon Master Parliament had granted Yun You, as the attendant of the Dragon Sovereign, excessive authority.
During their video call, Bailu's gaze appeared somewhat disheartened as she gently shook her head.
Su Jinyan decided to give Yun You one last chance.
"Let me ask you this: suppose you were no longer the attendant of the Dragon Lord but just an ordinary member of the Vidyadhara people."
"Now, Dragon Sovereign Bailu's prestige has surpassed that of the Dragon Master Parliament."
"If forced to choose between the Dragon Master Parliament and Dragon Sovereign Bailu, whom would you side with?"
Without hesitation, Yun You replied, "Sir, I would remain loyal to the Dragon Master Elder."
Smiling, Su Jinyan said, "Very well, congratulations on passing my test once again."
"From now on, your mission changes—you need not serve Dragon Sovereign Bailu anymore."
"The Dragon Master Parliament has decided to eliminate Bailu as a destabilizing factor."
Yun You looked bewildered. "Then what am I expected to do from here on?"
Su Jinyan spoke coldly, "Tomorrow, assassins from the Annihilation Gang will attempt to kill Bailu."
"You must create chaos and divert the attention of the Seat of Divine Foresight and the Ten-Lords Commission."
Humbly seeking guidance, Yun You asked, "Lord Su Ziya, please forgive my ignorance. How should I go about diverting...?"
Su Jinyan replied leisurely, "You should be aware that Lord Ravager Phantylia previously invaded Xianzhou, aiming to overthrow Luofu."
"However, Phantylia was outmatched and defeated by Su Jinyan and Jing Yuan."
Yun You's face paled slightly, as if sensing the implications. "Sir, do you mean...?!"
Su Jinyan snorted dismissively. "Indeed."
"That scoundrel Su Jinyan has imprisoned Phantylia in the Divination Commission's basement.
"I want you to release her tonight and divert Jing Yuan's attention."
Yun You shrank back, her delicate body trembling. "Sir, is this the will of the Dragon Master Elders?
"Releasing Phantylia would surely inflict grave harm on Luofu, wouldn't it?"
"Moreover, I...I don't possess such capability..."
Su Jinyan's expression grew impatient. "If I say you can, then you can."
"Yun You, this decision was made by the Dragon Master Parliament; there's no room for your doubts.
"At midnight tonight, I'll distract Fu Xuan and Su Jinyan. Do not disappoint me.
"If you fail, you might as well prepare for reincarnation."
With mixed emotions, Yun You reluctantly accepted the command and took her leave. "Yes..."
Silver Wolf and March 7th emerged one after another from the wardrobe.
Silver Wolf teased, "Oh, A-Yan, still managing somehow?"
"Tsk tsk tsk, releasing Phantylia—how did you even come up with that idea?
"Even I find this decision somewhat insane."
Confused, Su Jinyan replied, "It was the Dragon Master Parliament who decided to privately free the dangerous prisoner Phantylia.
"How does it involve me, Su Jinyan?"
March 7th expressed her concern, "If Phantylia truly escapes, it would be disastrous."
Su Jinyan chuckled lightly, "Escape? If she's wise enough, she'll realize that staying on Xianzhou Luofu is her best option."
"Having offended Nanook, fleeing to any other place would only lead to her destruction." With a profound tone, Su Jinyan added, "Besides, even if I were inclined to let Phantylia leave, she might not be willing to go."
Stelle, with utmost seriousness, said, "At this moment, little March wishes she could be Phantylia herself."
Confused, March 7th responded, "Hey, there's nothing wrong with my mind!"
"Why would I want to be Phantylia?"
Seizing the opportunity, Stelle promoted March 7th, "Su Jinyan, look closely... Look at how pure our little Qie San Yue is! Aren't you intrigued?"
From the video call, faint sobs of Bailu echoed.
"I know, in the elders' eyes, I've always been seen as surplus."
"They believe I'm just a false dragon, lacking the High Elder's power..."
Bailu's two closest attendants, both esteemed servants of the Dragon Lord, betrayed her without hesitation.
For young Bailu, witnessing such cruelty was undoubtedly harsh.
Jingliu embraced Bailu and gently stroked her small head. "Dragon Lady, please stop crying."
Su Jinyan shook his head slightly. "It's alright, let it out. Crying can make you feel better." He added softly, "I shouldn't have exposed you to such a brutal scene... If it upsets you, I could erase these memories for you."
Bailu wiped away tears from the corners of her eyes and spoke fiercely, "Don't treat me like a child. Wouldn't that betray your kind intentions? From now on, regardless of what others think, since this lady has inherited the legacy of the High Elder, she is indeed the true Dragon Sovereign of the Vidyadhara clan."
Su Jinyan looked at Bailu with satisfaction. "Well said, one must possess such conviction. Remember, you are the Dragon Sovereign Bailu of the Vidyadhara clan. Within the Vidyadhara, your authority is supreme, second only to the Dragon Ancestor. The incompetent dragon masters are unworthy to discipline you."
The original intent behind forming the Dragon Master Parliament was to establish mutual checks and balances between dragon masters and the High Elder.
By maintaining their respective authorities, each side could prevent the other from becoming overly autocratic.
Clearly, the power of the Dragon Master Parliament had swollen to unchecked extremes.
This hidden danger lurked within Xianzhou Luofu, and its eruption would have unpredictable consequences.
Su Jinyan's efforts to curb the Dragon Master Parliament were not solely for Bailu's sake but also for the future of Luofu itself.
Bailu wiped away her tears, striving to regain her authoritative demeanor. "I understand," she said resolutely. "From now on, I will properly exercise my authority as the Vidyadhara High Elder."
"However," Su Jinyan continued, "do not become reckless like Imbibitor Lunae." He added, "If you encounter anything you don't fully comprehend in the future, feel free to seek guidance from me or General Jing Yuan."
"I hear you loud and clear," Bailu responded earnestly.
Raising her hand, Stelle asked, "Honestly, little March doesn't quite grasp human male anatomy. Could A-Yan perhaps enlighten her tonight? And I'll observe discreetly from the sidelines."
Su Jinyan looked at her quizzically.
March 7th puffed up her snow-white cheeks in anger, "Hey, is that really your intention? We're too embarrassed to call you out directly."
Exasperated, Stelle lamented, "Why can't you seize this opportunity, little March?"
At Scalegorge Waterscape's ferry crossing, Huan Xi watched as tainted offerings drifted along the Ancient Moonwave Sea.
Overwhelmed, she collapsed to her knees, sobbing uncontrollably.
"H-How could this be? Our Vidyadhara Clan's faith, our sacred waters—how have they been defiled so terribly?"
Dan Heng remained silent. As someone who had witnessed the entire incident firsthand, he knew better than anyone who was truly responsible.
Previously, Dan Heng felt no particular affinity for Huan Xi; if anything, he harbored some resentment towards her. However, seeing her distraught now, unexpectedly...
Why did he suddenly feel inexplicably satisfied?