A Visit to the Mystic Maiden Palace

No one expected that a simple ceremony to appoint the Young Master would draw the presence of the current Saintess of the Mystic Maiden Palace, Gu Caihe. This revelation made Qin Gou realize that the relationship between the Seed Demon Holy Sect and the Mystic Maiden Palace was far more intricate than he had imagined.

—

Gu Caihe descended gracefully from her spirit boat, surrounded by a group of attendants. Her gentle smile exuded warmth and approachability, her skin as smooth as jade and her presence as delicate as an orchid. Despite hailing from the Mystic Maiden Palace—a sect infamous for its questionable reputation—her pure white attire and serene demeanor gave her an air of elegance and purity, like a celestial maiden crossing the seas.

—

“Tch, men are all the same,” Chi Yu muttered disdainfully, noticing Qin Gou’s unblinking gaze at Gu Caihe. “The moment they see a pretty face, they start drooling. How shameless.”

Qin Gou chuckled, shaking his head. “You’ve misunderstood. I was just thinking how predictable women can be. Even when selecting a Saintess from their own sect, they’d never choose someone more beautiful than themselves.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Chi Yu asked, frowning.

Qin Gou shrugged. “Nothing, just an observation. This Saintess, while elegant, doesn’t hold a candle to Little Yan or Ye Qishuang in terms of beauty or figure. Her demeanor is a bit peculiar, though—maybe she’s a good actress?”

—

“I agree that Feiyan is prettier,” Chi Yu admitted. “After all, the Saintess’s real age is a mystery, while Feiyan’s youthful charm and vibrant energy are unmatched. Her figure, too—ugh, don’t even get me started. But what’s this about Ye Qishuang? Are you seriously claiming to have met her in person?”

“I have,” Qin Gou replied casually.

“Tch, there you go again. I don’t get you. You’re not bad-looking, and while your cultivation level’s a bit low, finding a decent Dao partner shouldn’t be that hard. So why are you always fantasizing about Ye Qishuang? If she knew, she’d probably slap you to death! And come on, anyone can brag. If you’ve met her, then I’ve kissed her!” Chi Yu grumbled, clearly annoyed.

Qin Gou sighed, his frustration evident. “I really have kissed her—back when she was just a little girl.”

“Alright, I give up. Talking to you is pointless,” Chi Yu said, rolling her eyes. “I still don’t get what my brother sees in you…”

—

Dong! Dong! Dong!

Nine solemn chimes echoed through the air as several elders of the Seed Demon Holy Sect used their immense power to conjure four bold, blood-red characters in the sky: Dao Heart, Seed Demon.

—

Gu Feiyan appeared, dressed in a pristine moon-white palace gown, her head adorned with a dazzling golden phoenix crown. A flowing, cloud-patterned cape trailed behind her as she walked with grace and poise. Her elegant attire, paired with her alluringly beautiful face, made her look both regal and enchanting.

Standing beside her, Gu Jinghong handed her the jade seal that controlled the sect’s most powerful formation. His deep, resonant voice carried across the plaza: “I hereby declare that from this day forward, all major decisions within the Seed Demon Holy Sect will be made by Young Master Gu Feiyan. The ten elders will act as her advisors, ensuring the sect’s continued prosperity and growth.”

—

Before the crowd, Gu Feiyan pricked her finger and let a drop of blood fall onto the jade seal.

The ceremony was complete.

From this moment on, Gu Feiyan held sole control over the sect’s most formidable formation.

—

“We are honored by the presence of so many esteemed guests,” Gu Jinghong announced. “Your attendance graces our humble sect. I assure you, this grand banquet will be worth your while!”

With his speech concluded, the celebratory feast began, filling the central plaza with lively chatter and laughter.

—

After offering a few words of advice to his daughter, Gu Jinghong approached Gu Caihe, the Saintess of Cherished Flowers. Gesturing politely, he said, “Saintess, shall we discuss matters in private?”

Gu Caihe smiled gracefully, her demeanor as gentle as ever. “The Sect Master is truly considerate.”

—

Inside the grand main hall of the Seed Demon Holy Sect, only Gu Jinghong and Gu Caihe remained.

Seated on his throne, Gu Jinghong wore a warm smile. “Saintess, I doubt your visit is purely to congratulate my daughter on becoming Young Master. Shall we get to the point?”

“To the Mystic Maiden Palace, Sect Master Gu is practically family, so I’ll be direct,” Gu Caihe said softly, her voice delicate and soothing, like a helpless kitten that stirred a protective instinct in others. Smiling sweetly, she asked, “Who is the most outstanding male disciple in your sect? I’d very much like to meet him.”

—

Hearing this, Gu Jinghong’s first thought was of Qin Gou. However, he hesitated, choosing his words carefully. “If it’s just a meeting, that can be arranged. But surely this isn’t your true purpose?”

Gu Caihe’s smile deepened, dimples forming on her cheeks. “If this disciple is truly exceptional, he may be invited to visit the Mystic Maiden Palace as a guest. Not only would he witness the splendor of our sect, coveted by countless heroes, but he would also gain considerable benefits.”

—

“This…” Gu Jinghong’s expression grew cautious. “Is this your idea, or… the Palace Master’s?”

“Naturally, it’s the Palace Master’s decision. I wouldn’t dare bring a man back to the palace without her approval,” Gu Caihe replied, her tone light and innocent, her smile pure and radiant.

—