{"id":7985,"date":"2026-05-22T09:12:35","date_gmt":"2026-05-22T07:12:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ontimestory.eu\/?p=7985"},"modified":"2026-05-22T09:12:35","modified_gmt":"2026-05-22T07:12:35","slug":"a-love-struck-brain-is-nothing-in-the-face-of-melodrama-chapter-52","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ontimestory.eu\/index.php\/2026\/05\/22\/a-love-struck-brain-is-nothing-in-the-face-of-melodrama-chapter-52\/","title":{"rendered":"A Love-Struck Brain Is Nothing In The Face Of Melodrama – Chapter 52"},"content":{"rendered":"\r\n

Tang Fang sat energetically in the hotel restaurant, eating breakfast.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He had slept well the previous night. After all, he had originally thought that if the Old Execution Ground incident came to light, he might not die, but it would definitely affect his future.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

And that was indeed the case. He had gone directly from Director Tang to Little Tang, three years of effort had gone down the drain.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Tang Fang had initially felt somewhat unwilling to accept this. Over the past few years, he had worked hard to curry favor with Zhou Tianning, even being treated like a dog by him. Just when he was about to finally break free from Zhou Tianning, one moment of greed had sent him \u201cback to square one\u201d overnight.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

However, after he learned what had actually happened at the Old Execution Ground, Tang Fang felt relieved that he had only been demoted.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The ghostly creature that fed on resentment had appeared at the Old Execution Ground. If Vice President Ding had not protected him, he would probably be in a National Security prison now, instead of sitting here eating breakfast.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

With this thought, Tang Fang no longer looked worried on the way to the task.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He was even full of energy and went to bed early that night.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

This improved the impression other staff had of him. They had originally thought he was just someone idling away his time, but unexpectedly, he showed a lot of drive.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

In stark contrast, Zhou Tianning came downstairs with dark circles under his eyes.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Several staff members who had come on the business trip were startled by Zhou Tianning\u2019s appearance.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He looked as if his ghost-controlling power had drained all his yang energy. He appeared haggard, even with pronounced eye bags.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Tang Fang was also shocked. When he had met Zhou Tianning a month ago, he had been radiant, full of pride, as if no one could compare.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

And when they met yesterday, although Zhou Tianning had looked somewhat tired, it had not been as severe as today.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

What had happened?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

While Tang Fang was pondering this, Ye Wangxing yawned and walked into the restaurant. He also looked like he had not slept well overnight, but not as badly as Zhou Tianning. There was just a slight darkness under his eyes, not as pronounced as Zhou Tianning\u2019s.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

However, his expression was unpleasant, as if he were gritting his teeth.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Tang Fang was still wondering what had happened when he saw Zhou Tianning, noticing Ye Wangxing following him downstairs, staring at Ye Wangxing with a resentful gaze.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Ye Wangxing lowered his hand, noticed Zhou Tianning\u2019s gaze, and immediately looked away, feeling a bit guilty. However, he spoke: \u201cHaha, haha, there are so many mosquitoes in the south. They kept us awake all night.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Tang Fang was puzzled. Although it was indeed July or August, and there were mosquitoes in the hotel, weren\u2019t they all Taoist Masters?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

A barrier would have kept all the mosquitoes outside. Had they forgotten to set it up last night? But even that was a trivial matter.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

While Tang Fang was confused, one person and one ghost followed Ye Wangxing into the restaurant.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

One was a tall young man\u2014he still wore a high-neck, sleeveless, tight-fitting shirt today, and his muscles were clearly visible even from a distance.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The Ghost Emperor had also changed out of his red robes\u2014now wearing a fitted outfit. Someone who didn\u2019t know might have thought he was going to star in a historical drama.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Tang Fang immediately recalled the rumors he had heard earlier, as well as the \u201cFirst, Second, and Third House\u201d drama from a month ago.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Although the Third House was not present, the First and Second Houses were.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Could it be\u2026<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

While Tang Fang was thinking this, Zhou Tianning ground his teeth and muttered: \u201cYes, two mosquitoes, and we didn\u2019t manage to kill them all night!\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

This comment made Ye Wangxing\u2019s already awkward expression even more uncomfortable. He turned his face black and glared at the two nearby.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The person and the ghost beside him: <\/span><\/span>acted as if nothing had happened.jpg<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Tang Fang: <\/span><\/span>Got it!<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Other team members who had heard some of the news: <\/span><\/span>Got it!<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Fortunately, Vice President Ding stepped in to save the situation in time, ensuring the gossip did not affect their mission.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

They headed to the hotel conference hall. Everyone sat together and began discussing the upcoming task.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201cWe are going to investigate the entrance of that secret realm. According to previous investigations, the entrance is located in this small town, but\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Vice President Ding drew open the conference room curtains and showed everyone the view outside the window.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The street below, paved with bluestone, was crowded with people.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Some wore beautiful traditional clothing, others carried cameras, and some clearly came as whole families.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Beside them were classic Huizhou-style buildings with white walls and black tiles, giving a strong Jiangnan town vibe.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

But the goods sold beneath these seemingly ancient buildings were anything but old-fashioned.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2014Fried squid, stinky tofu from Changsha, roasted cold noodles from the Northeast, and the classic tourist souvenirs every scenic spot has.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Of course, there were also many toys available online.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Vice President Ding could hear it without opening the window\u2014the child downstairs, tugging at his grandfather\u2019s clothes and shouting, had tears streaming from his open mouth.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201cHowever, given the current situation, our task is extremely challenging.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Vice President Ding spoke in a deep tone.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

And indeed, she was right.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Such ancient towns were everywhere in the southern region, having become a commercialized model.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

This also caused the original arrangement of the buildings to change, and the secret realm entrance they had found in ancient texts immediately lost its reference points.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

They could only ask the local elders for guidance, hoping the elders could give them some advice, but\u2026<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201cEight from Sichuan, three from Guangxi, and two from Gansu\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Tang Fang said as she rubbed her temples in frustration. She didn\u2019t understand why, even though this was the Huizhou region, there were so many people from other provinces.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Even seeing someone from Su Province would have been more normal than seeing all these others, right?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Some elders had even been specifically brought in by their children to sit in their shops, just to make the stores seem older.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Other people encountered situations similar to Tang Fang\u2019s: either the locals they met weren\u2019t from the area, or the locals couldn\u2019t understand what they were saying.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Fortunately, they all wore professional attire and administrative jackets, so they looked like leaders on an inspection tour, and most shopkeepers cooperated.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2026Except for a few trendy snack vendors who secretly pulled down their rolling shutters.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Tang Fang silently made a note of these places, planning to warn leaders and their parents who liked traveling: <\/span><\/span>if they ever visited this town, they shouldn\u2019t go to these stores.<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

However, the slow progress of the task made her a bit frustrated. Fortunately, her partner was Zhou Tianning.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

At least that gave her something to do and allowed her to salvage a little of Zhou Tianning\u2019s impression of her.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Strangely, no matter how much Tang Fang spoke, Zhou Tianning didn\u2019t respond much. Tang Fang assumed it was because he hadn\u2019t slept well last night and had been troubled by Ye Wangxing\u2019s situation.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

This young master had gone through similar things before.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Just as Tang Fang was about to lose patience, good news arrived: she received a message from a colleague.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201cMaster Ye seems to have found a clue?! Okay, okay, I\u2019ll head there immediately.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Tang Fang exclaimed happily into the phone, then quickly headed toward the address provided.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He didn\u2019t forget to call back to Zhou Tianning: \u201cAlright, Tianning, let\u2019s go quickly. The task is urgent.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning silently followed, since he also didn\u2019t know where the secret realm entrance was.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

In the previous life, he had learned about it from reports.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Tang Fang didn\u2019t notice the strange tone of the colleague on the other end at first. But he soon realized it.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201c\u2026Ye, why do you look like you didn\u2019t sleep well? Did something happen last night?\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Just from the tone, Tang Fang could sense the speaker was quite gentle\u2014he had only heard this voice from one person before.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He slowly raised his eyes and first saw Lu Shi and the Ghost Emperor, both with dark expressions.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Good, now it was completely clear.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Tang Fang turned his head toward the source of the voice.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2018Of course it\u2019s you, Third House.\u2019<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201c\u2026Ye, do you want me to recommend a few hotels? I know which inns are really comfortable.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The delicate-faced young boy spoke with concern, and when Ye Wangxing refused, his expression briefly fell.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

This made Ye Wangxing somewhat flustered as he tried to comfort him.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Meanwhile, nearby tourists kept turning to look. With so many attractive people here, plus two dark-faced handsome men, and one even in tight-fitted clothing showing broad shoulders and narrow waist, many secretly raised their phones to take photos.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201cActually, it\u2019s nothing\u2014just two insects in the room\u2026 oh no, three insects bothered me all night, which is why I didn\u2019t sleep well. Don\u2019t worry, just spray some insecticide when you get home.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Ye Wangxing spoke through gritted teeth, but his tone softened when looking at Yu Yi. He didn\u2019t notice Yu Yi shivered when he mentioned three insects.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201cR-really? Then Master Ye, you should really spray insecticide when you get back.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Yu Yi stammered.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Vice President Ding squinted, sensing something was off with this boy.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

But when he turned, Yu Yi had already moved close to Ye Wangxing again, hanging onto his arm, and enthusiastically offering him pastries from their store.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

This made Ye Wangxing feel slightly embarrassed, while Yu Yi said earnestly: \u201cMaster Ye, you saved my life before, and I offered myself to you but you refused. You can\u2019t refuse these pastries too, right?\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Only then did Ye Wangxing awkwardly accept them and agreed to take a photo with Yu Yi.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The two men nearby grew even darker in expression, but dared not act or show jealousy.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2014After all, they didn\u2019t even have a status yet.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Tang Fang silently admired: <\/span><\/span>\u2018\u2026The Third House is quite skillful.\u2019<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

After Ye Wangxing took the pastries, Yu Yi seemed satisfied. He led them along, asking around, until they finally found the secret realm entrance.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

It was under a large crooked-neck tree. But due to current town planning, there were no storefronts nearby, and the tree looked scraggly and unattractive, so nobody took photos there.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

After confirming it was the entrance, the staff immediately set up barriers to prevent ordinary people from accidentally entering.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The official personnel used more advanced methods. Although they did not have the ability to set up barriers, they placed two abandoned snack stalls at the location, directly covering the secret realm entrance.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

As for the Ghost Emperor and the subordinates he brought\u2026<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

They transformed several middle-aged men here, all with coarse faces, lecherous expressions, and beer bellies.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Men who spat frequently.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

They ensured that no one, male or female, wanted to approach.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

While the staff worked enthusiastically and cursed their leaders in their hearts, Yu Yi quietly stepped back, seemingly somewhat intimidated by the current scene.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The others just thought he was timid, but Vice President Ding felt that something was off\u2014this guy dared to flirt with Ye Wangxing in front of the Ghost Emperor and Lu Shi, yet he was scared of such a small disturbance?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

She immediately sent a message to the official personnel, asking them to check Yu Yi\u2019s recent movements.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2018\u2026It will take two days to get the results. He is just an ordinary person, I need to file a request with the higher-ups.\u2019<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Seeing the message from the officials, Vice President Ding understood.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2018Okay, I just sensed that something might be wrong with him.\u2019<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Vice President Ding did not notice when sending the message that, though he faced away from Yu Yi, he seemed to see through her back, staring at her as if knowing what she was typing.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Vice President Ding returned to the hotel unaware, waiting for the officials\u2019 message.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The secret realm entrance had already been completely sealed. They had installed alarms and surveillance, and the police also had drones monitoring the entrance.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

They did not plan to enter today, the crowd was too large, and if anything happened, they could not avoid responsibility. It was better for the town\u2019s management to control the flow and keep people away.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

They also did not know what changes would occur in the town once they entered the secret realm.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Vice President Ding summarized the day\u2019s work, which was mostly a briefing from the leader, but he particularly praised Ye Wangxing.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201c\u2026I hope everyone learns from Master Ye\u2019s approach. During missions, do not focus solely on objectives, save ordinary lives as well. Ordinary people\u2019s lives matter, and they can also help our missions.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He emphasized this again. Even though the Religious Association cooperated with the officials, their disdain for ordinary people was hard to eliminate. Other masters could hide it, but Zhou Tianning could not.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

With Zhou Tianning\u2019s personality, if something went wrong, the mission would fail.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

That was why Vice President Ding said those words\u2014intentionally to provoke Zhou Tianning.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning naturally heard his words\u2014but did he really listen?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Obviously not.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He looked at Ye Wangxing with a gaze sharp as a knife, but only dared to glance secretly. If the Ghost Emperor or Lu Shi turned toward him, he immediately withdrew his gaze.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He was unhappy, but cowardly.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Fortunately, Vice President Ding only lightly touched Zhou Tianning and did not continue the topic, instead starting to explain their objective after entering the secret realm.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201c\u2026We are here to obtain the Tongxin Array Disk. It is very important, but its use and abilities cannot be revealed yet. Only after obtaining it can we explain to the owner.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Vice President Ding tapped the table seriously.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Everyone below listened attentively, though Tang Fang\u2019s eyes flickered.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

If he could get the Tongxin Array Disk\u2026<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He glanced at Zhou Tianning, who listened seriously.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Maybe he could work with Zhou Tianning?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Although Zhou Tianning had a bad temper, there was no better choice. Moreover, although Tang Fang had avoided Zhou Tianning before, Zhou had been busy with his career and neglected him\u2014maybe he could still play the pity card\u2026<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

While Tang Fang fantasized, he heard Vice President Ding speak.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201c\u2026And our Religious Association has brought a pair with a Tongxin Oath.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Vice President Ding did not know how to describe the relationship between Ye Wangxing and the Ghost Emperor.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Although the Tongxin Oath required mutual consent, even verbal agreement counted, and it still did not affect the oath\u2019s life-and-death effect.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

But Ye Wangxing did not seem willing at all.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Vice President Ding turned to look at the reluctant yet task-driven handsome master.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2026Wait, then how did Ye Wangxing sign the Tongxin Oath?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Did he really agree at the time?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Vice President Ding widened his eyes and quickly shook his head, dismissing the thought.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

If Ye Wangxing truly agreed\u2026<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Li Guan could have gotten angry enough to compete with the Ghost Emperor.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Vice President Ding forcibly suppressed the thought of Li Guan and instructed: \u201cOnce we enter the secret realm and obtain information about the Tongxin Array Disk, immediately send a paper crane to notify Master Ye Wangxing and His Majesty the Ghost Emperor to head there. Everyone, understood?\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Her sharp gaze swept over everyone, and seeing nods of agreement, she was satisfied.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2014Lu Shi was not included, his face had remained sour since the Tongxin Array Disk was mentioned.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

In contrast, the Ghost Emperor\u2019s expression was much better.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201cOf course, I know everyone desires the treasure, but it can only be used by those with the Tongxin Oath. For others, it is just a locked disk with no keyhole. Everyone must restrain greed and report to Master Ye as soon as the Tongxin Array Disk is found.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Vice President Ding said sternly: “I do not want to ask His Majesty the Ghost Emperor to take the disk from you, which is useless to you.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The Ghost Emperor, dressed in combat attire, looked at everyone and slowly smiled mockingly.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning felt the most guilty.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2026Because he had already signed a Tongxin Pact with Pei Si.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

It started a month ago, after learning of the others\u2019 rebirth. Zhou Tianning only made a record and was sent back to his room.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Realizing the situation was unfavorable, he verbally severed ties with the Zhou family, then made the Tongxin Pact with Pei Si.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

This was preparation for the official Tongxin Array Disk, in his past life, other couples had obtained it.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The disk\u2019s function was simple: trap the enemies the couple wished to trap, regardless of number or strength, using the Tongxin Oath\u2019s heavenly power.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Upon learning of the mission, Zhou Tianning immediately thought of this function.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

It was clearly prepared for the black mud creature.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2014And this was Zhou Tianning\u2019s only chance to turn things around.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Ye Wangxing had already established his position in the association through the Ghost Emperor and Lu Shi love triangle.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

At this time, seizing opportunities would not threaten his status. Even if Zhou Tianning took one, the Ghost Emperor and Lu Shi would provide another.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Now Zhou Tianning only needed to secure his unique status in the association.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He did not aim to replace Ye Wangxing, he desired Ye\u2019s status but knew he and Pei Si lacked the ability to challenge Ye\u2019s position.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He only wanted the treasure.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Once he and Pei Si obtained the Tongxin Array Disk, his position in the association would be solidified.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He could then use any excuse, such as a preemptive contract due to enemies, and the matter would pass.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning did not even notice when Vice President Ding ended the meeting. Seeing other staff go shopping, he returned to his room to plan with Pei Si.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

But before reaching the room, someone blocked him.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201cTianning, what do you think of that Array Disk?\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Tang Fang spoke softly.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201cDo you want it?\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

These four words seemed to tempt Zhou Tianning into the abyss. He looked at Tang Fang and whispered: \u201c\u2026But obtaining the disk requires signing a Tongxin Oath.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Seeing Zhou Tianning hesitate, Tang Fang smirked: \u201cTianning, don\u2019t worry. I have a plan. That would be good for both of us.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning nodded, seemingly listening carefully, while his hand slowly touched the jade gourd at his neck.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2014The black lacquer there overflowed wildly, and Zhou Tianning pressed it back into the gourd.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2018Pei Si, now is not the time\u2026\u2019<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He glanced at Tang Fang, eyes flashing with murderous intent.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2018I will let him die at the moment of despair.\u2019<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

After Tang Fang left satisfied, Zhou Tianning returned to his room, and Pei Si emerged from the jade gourd.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

His eyes were livelier than before signing the Tongxin Oath, but still different from the Ghost Emperor.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201cMadam, why did you approach another man?\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Pei Si asked, his mischievous face full of displeasure\u2014he even bit Zhou Tianning\u2019s lips, drawing blood.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning touched the blood, hissed, and looked at Pei Si with obsession.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

But he calmed down, thinking of the humiliation Tang Fang caused last life and how he schemed this life\u2026<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning\u2019s eyes hardened.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He gently touched Pei Si\u2019s chest and whispered his plan.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201c\u2026I know you feel bad, but I will not have any physical contact with him, and he is no match for you.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning spoke, his handsome face full of love for Pei Si.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2026It even looked somewhat fanatic.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Pei Si did not understand why his wife, after signing the Tongxin Oath with him, would approach another man, just as he did not understand why his wife looked at him with such a fervent gaze.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

This was a treatment he had never experienced months ago. Now that it existed, Pei Si felt relieved, but at the same time, he also felt a shiver of unease.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He felt relieved because he no longer needed to fear the Zhou family, and the fog that the Zhou family had shrouded around his mind had finally dissipated. He could now think for himself, instead of just repeating the role of a tool that his wife wanted to use to kill others.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

However, Pei Si still felt a chill. It was strange\u2014he was supposed to be the vengeful spirit, so he should not have been afraid of this dark sensation.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

But what if this feeling came from his wife herself?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Pei Si looked at the obsessed expression on Zhou Tianning\u2019s face, and the mischievous smile on his face stiffened slightly.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He floated back a little in fear but then steeled himself, thinking he must have misunderstood. His wife, though not as kind to him as he was to others, must treat him differently, right?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

With that thought, he stopped floating back and held Zhou Tianning close, letting him lean on his body.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning talked about their wonderful life after obtaining the Array Disk\u2014how Pei Si\u2019s status would rise, and no one would bully them anymore.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Halfway through, Zhou Tianning shifted his words, urging Pei Si to improve himself.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201c\u2026Pei Si, previously I chose the wrong location, but now in the secret realm there will be other vengeful spirits, and others will stay far from us. You only need to devour those vengeful spirits.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning spoke with a fervent gaze, looking at Pei Si as if he saw him become the Ghost Emperor while he himself reached the pinnacle of life.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Thinking this way, he spoke it aloud.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201cActually, your talent is similar to the Ghost Emperor\u2019s. As long as you devour enough vengeful spirits, your power will grow. Don\u2019t you want that?\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning spoke, and Pei Si truly sensed something was wrong.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

His wife seemed to have overly high expectations of him.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

If he had such talent, would the Zhou family have captured him and trained him as their vengeful spirit? Pei Si knew his own limits\u2014the Ghost King was his peak, while the Ghost Emperor\u2019s talent was not something ordinary people could reach.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Thinking this, Pei Si, who had just regained some ability to think, did not voice these doubts, he wanted to save face in front of his wife.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2026But plans could not keep up with changes. As his wife raised her goals higher, Pei Si began hinting that he could never reach the level she expected.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201cNo! Pei Si, you can definitely do it. Your talent is so great. I handpicked you from hundreds of vengeful spirits. You can do it, right?\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning said resolutely, grasping Pei Si\u2019s hands, his eyes shining as he leaned closer.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u201cI will bring many vengeful spirits to you, you only need to devour them. Pei Si, I trust you like this\u2014you can do it, right?\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Pei Si wanted to say he could not, but he swallowed the words and nodded with difficulty.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

As Zhou Tianning planned to continue explaining their next steps, the noise at the door interrupted her. Her fervent expression vanished instantly, replaced by her usual aloof demeanor.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Pei Si immediately relaxed, his mischievous expression fading as he happily retreated into the jade gourd.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He never imagined that someone who had harmed many and acted ruthlessly could one day be scared by a master and hide in the Soul Nourishing Jade.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Fortunately, Ye Wangxing apparently did not hear Zhou Tianning\u2019s conversation. He greeted Zhou Tianning with a smile and then sat on the bed to organize his equipment.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

After having lunch downstairs that night and playing on his phone for a while, Ye Wangxing went to bed early.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning, seeing him asleep, breathed a sigh of relief, planning to continue cultivating his relationship with Pei Si.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

After all, Ye Wangxing had disturbed him last night, but today, being quieter, he thought Ye Wangxing would not notice.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Unexpectedly, Pei Si was shy tonight and refused to come out of the Soul Nourishing Jade.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

A few days ago, he had initiated this, so why was he shy now? Zhou Tianning wondered but eventually went to sleep reluctantly.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

In the middle of the night, familiar noises woke him, and he closed his eyes again.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning stared at the dark ceiling expressionlessly, while the sparse sounds continued.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2018The struggle is stronger than last night\u2019<\/i><\/span><\/span> he thought.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

But the noises became increasingly abnormal.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Ye Wangxing\u2019s muffled groans came, as if he tried to speak but was silenced. Zhou Tianning sensed the spiritual energy on Ye Wangxing not weakening but growing stronger, as if increasing. Dual cultivation, huh?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning closed his eyes slowly.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He had Pei Si cast a spell on him to enter infant-like sleep.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Before sleeping, his last thought was:<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2018They really play hard.\u2019<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The next morning, Ye Wangxing, still dark-circled and fierce-looking, proved Zhou Tianning\u2019s thought from the night.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He rushed to the buffet. Because of the previous night, he overslept slightly, the Ghost Emperor and Lu Shi were already in the restaurant.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Ye Wangxing glared at them and, gritting his teeth, said through his clenched jaw: \u201cWhich of you came to my room last night?\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Though both looked innocent, no one\u2014Ye Wangxing, Zhou Tianning, or the staff\u2014believed them.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

After all, they had looked equally innocent yesterday morning.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Unbeknownst to all, this time, they were truly innocent.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

They had indeed stayed in their rooms all night.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u3010<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You pushed too hard last night, 19. My whole body was numb and itchy, but today my muscles feel much better.<\/span><\/span>\u3011<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Upon entering the secret realm, Ye Wangxing noticed the shifting sun and spoke to 19 in his mind.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The previous night, 19 had used the black mud creature to climb into Ye Wangxing\u2019s bed to give him a full-body massage.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

During this month, Ye Wangxing had not neglected his training while acting.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

However, due to mission conditions and the uncontrollable Southern Ghost Emperor, Ye Wangxing had trained hard, even straining his muscles.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

19 prepared a full-body massage, and with Ye Wangxing\u2019s permission, he boldly gave him one the previous night.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

To prevent Ye Wangxing from making noise, 19 even covered his mouth, as they could communicate mentally.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u3010<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Host, I am sure the force I applied is bearable for you, not exceeding the threshold, you just had trouble accepting it because your mental threshold is not yet raised.<\/span><\/span>\u3011<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u3010<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>After several massages, you will adapt.<\/span><\/span>\u3011<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Ye Wangxing recalled the soreness and tingling from last night and shivered slightly but felt relieved overall, nodding.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u3010<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You control my body data, so it\u2019s up to you.<\/span><\/span>\u3011<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Ye Wangxing smiled and opened the mission panel to check upcoming tasks:<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

[<\/span><\/span>Task Panel<\/span><\/span>]<\/span><\/span>
<\/span><\/span>Name: [Ye Wangxing]
Gender: [Male]
Age: [24]
Current Role: [<\/span><\/span>Master<\/span><\/span>]
Attention Value: [<\/span><\/span>103794<\/span><\/span>]
Mini World Currency: [<\/span><\/span>11,236,350<\/span><\/span>]
Gold (transferable to real world): [<\/span><\/span>11,600g<\/span><\/span>]
Main Quest: [<\/span><\/span>Capture<\/span><\/span> protagonist attention<\/span><\/span>]
Progress: [<\/span><\/span>6<\/span><\/span>0%]
Reward: [<\/span><\/span>10<\/span><\/span>0,000 Attention Value]<\/span><\/span>
<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Side <\/span>Quest<\/span>:<\/span>
<\/span>Quest 1: [<\/span>Disrupt protagonist\u2019s grand battle<\/span><\/span>]
Progress: [0%]
Reward: [Attention 400, <\/span>3 0<\/span>00 000 Mini World Currency, <\/span>20<\/span>00g gold]
Quest 2: [Disrupt protagonist\u2019s <\/span>punishmeny for lover<\/span>]
Progress: [0%]
Reward: [Attention 400, <\/span>3 0<\/span>00 000 Mini World Currency, <\/span>25<\/span>00g gold]<\/span><\/p>\r\n

Ye Wangxing scanned the rewards and mission. He had already known the mission, which was why he assigned Yu Yi there.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

In the original story, this was a key plot point: after Zhou Tianning obtained the Tongxin Array Disk, he gained the Zhou family\u2019s headship.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The Zhou family abolished flogging vengeful spirits, which seemed good.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2014If Zhou Tianning had not codified arrogance toward ordinary people into family rules.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

This caused vengeful spirits under the Zhou family\u2019s gentle supervision to attack any ordinary person approaching the family indiscriminately.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Under Zhou Tianning\u2019s lead, the Religious Association and officials drifted apart, and his power was strong, the officials could not intervene.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2026In the original plot, Lu Shi was just an ordinary person.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

After the story ended, the simulation showed intensified conflict between officials and the Religious Association, causing a great war, with only one in ten Masters surviving and heavy casualties for the officials.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Thus, Zhou Tianning could not obtain the Tongxin Array Disk.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Ye Wangxing had not yet decided how to handle it. He could not really use it with 19\u2014the Tongxin Oath was the limit. Using it might lead to uncontrollable consequences.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He ultimately decided to return the disk to the original couple who had it in the past life.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Objectively, it returned the disk to its rightful owner.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Ye Wangxing appeared serious on the surface\u2014pretending to slack off. Yes, slack off.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

19 had scanned the secret realm immediately upon entry, Ye Wangxing now knew the disk\u2019s location and that the Southern Ghost Emperor guarded it.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Zhou Tianning was also approaching the disk but still needed time to reach it. To prevent him from reaching it first and failing the Southern Ghost Emperor\u2019s first trial, Ye Wangxing continued to slack off.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

While slacking, he discussed protagonist dynamics with 19.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He could not ignore what Zhou Tianning had said last night, even if Ye Wangxing did not hear it, 19 would report it.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Ye Wangxing could not believe Zhou Tianning was like that.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u3010<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Zhou Tianning is that powerful??? The protagonist in the original story injured many, but he was scared like this???<\/span><\/span>\u3011<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Ye Wangxing asked 19 in shock.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

In the original story, the protagonist killed many people. A vengeful spirit chosen by the Zhou family was hardly innocent.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Yet Zhou Tianning\u2019s intimidation was so effective that Ye Wangxing did not know if the protagonist was cowardly or Zhou Tianning terrifying.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

19 analyzed Zhou Tianning\u2019s psychology naturally.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Time passed slowly as Ye Wangxing slacked off. When the time came, he jumped up, stuck a Wind Riding Talisman to his leg, and ran toward the location.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

19 followed, instructing Lu Shi to solemnly notify Vice President Ding.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u2018Someone has found the Tongxin Array Disk but has not notified Wangxing.\u2019<\/i><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Vice President Ding immediately reported the position.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Upon arrival, everyone saw Zhou Tianning on the ground, having passed the Southern Ghost Emperor\u2019s first trial.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

\u3010<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Perfect timing.<\/span><\/span>\u3011<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Ye Wangxing told 19 and adjusted his expression to speak righteously to Zhou Tianning.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

However, the Southern Ghost Emperor interrupted, and Ye Wangxing\u2019s words caught in his throat.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

The broad, burly Southern Ghost Emperor trembled as he pointed at Xie Jiu and his subordinates, as well as the human staff behind them.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

He shouted in indignation: \u201cXie Jiu! You freeloading phoenix man!\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

Ye Wangxing: “\u2026\u201d Huh?<\/span><\/span><\/p>\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n

Support translation:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
\"This<\/a><\/figure>\r\n\r\n

<\/p>\r\n

<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Tang Fang sat energetically in the hotel restaurant, eating breakfast. He had slept well the previous night. After all, he had originally thought that if the Old Execution Ground incident came to light, he might not die, but it would definitely affect his future. And that was indeed the case. He had gone directly from […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":7815,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"advanced_seo_description":"","jetpack_seo_html_title":"","jetpack_seo_noindex":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[118],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7985","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-a-love-struck-brain-is-nothing","entry","has-media"],"acf":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/ontimestory.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/20250409131120_300_420.jpeg?fit=300%2C420&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ontimestory.eu\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7985","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ontimestory.eu\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ontimestory.eu\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ontimestory.eu\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ontimestory.eu\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7985"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/ontimestory.eu\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7985\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7986,"href":"https:\/\/ontimestory.eu\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7985\/revisions\/7986"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ontimestory.eu\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7815"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ontimestory.eu\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7985"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ontimestory.eu\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7985"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ontimestory.eu\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7985"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}