Zi Ji finally pieced everything together.
She now understood why Gu Yuena had summoned her.
It was because Qian Ran possessed such a unique ability, and Gu Yuena had called her in to confirm it.
Realizing this, Zi Ji couldn't help but feel relieved. At least Gu Yuena had chosen her instead of Bi Ji. Although, knowing Gu Yuena's personality, she probably wouldn't spare Bi Ji in the end. Still, being the first to be with Qian Ran wasn't so bad.
"Forget it."
Gu Yuena gave up trying to make sense of it. Unless she experienced it herself, understanding the principle behind Qian Ran's power from mere observation was impossible.
"Since you have this ability, there's something I'm curious about. Can you use the same method to acquire the powers of Di Tian or Bear Lord?" Gu Yuena asked seriously, deep in thought. Among the Ten Great Beasts, the strongest female soul beast was Snow Emperor.
Generally speaking, female soul beasts were slightly weaker overall.
"Don't even think about it! It's impossible with male soul beasts." Qian Ran shuddered at her sinister idea. If Gu Yuena got curious enough to summon Di Tian and Bear Lord for experiments, Qian Ran might lose his mind.
He absolutely did not have that kind of preference.
"Why so nervous? I was just asking." Gu Yuena chuckled mischievously, her playful expression making Qian Ran's scalp tingle. "It's a pity, though. Di Tian and Bear Lord's power far surpasses Bi Ji and Zi Ji's."
Qian Ran was thankful that Gu Yuena wasn't into those sorts of ideas. If she had been… he'd be in serious trouble.
"No need! What we have now is plenty," Qian Ran said, shaking his head vigorously.
"Since you have this power, I know how to help you grow stronger." Gu Yuena's gaze deepened as she looked at Qian Ran.
His power was terrifyingly unique. If it continued to develop, wouldn't Qian Ran end up mastering more elements and attributes than even she did?
Moreover, could Qian Ran use this ability on her? If so, wouldn't he have the potential to become the next Dragon God?
Was the Dragon God's power the result of such a constitution? Gu Yuena mused, suddenly uncertain.
If that were the case, could Qian Ran one day absorb power from the Divine Realm's Goddess of Life, who was technically a soul beast?
"Zi Ji, you must keep Qian Ran's ability strictly confidential."
"I swear to keep this a secret, Master," Zi Ji replied respectfully.
"Good. Now, the two of you leave." Gu Yuena waved her hand, and a streak of silver light pushed them out of the Lake of Life. She had confirmed what she needed and had no desire to continue witnessing Zi Ji and Qian Ran's interactions.
Outside the lake, Zi Ji looked at Qian Ran with a mix of emotions. Her heart felt empty as she gazed at the man she had just shared such intimate moments with.
If Qian Ran only valued her for her soul ring and soul bone, what worth did she have left to him now?
"What do you think?" Qian Ran pulled Zi Ji into his arms, planting a gentle kiss on her delicate cheek.
Qian Ran believed in sustainable development. He wasn't the type to discard someone after getting what he wanted.
Besides, Zi Ji was stunningly beautiful and gave him feelings unlike any other. She was the kind of woman he wanted to keep around.
"As long as Master Qian Ran wants me, Zi Ji will never leave you," Zi Ji said softly, her tone laced with affection.
Even Qian Ran was puzzled by how quickly Zi Ji had developed feelings for him. It was likely the result of the system's enhancements amplifying his natural charm.
His vitality and masculinity were irresistible, even to a legendary Hell Demon Dragon King.
"How could I ever let you go?" Qian Ran's hand caressed Zi Ji's soft body. Her skin felt like the finest jade and silk, yet even jade and silk couldn't match the fragrance and allure of her body.
Zi Ji shyly closed her eyes, kissing Qian Ran's face passionately. Her devoted and intoxicated demeanor was a stark contrast to her usual domineering and fierce persona.
In front of Qian Ran, Zi Ji was utterly docile and obedient.
The two cuddled for a long time before finally pulling away. Having just experienced her first time, Zi Ji's desire was still strong.
"By the way, this is for you." Qian Ran remembered the Dark Crystal he had obtained after marking Zi Ji. Such treasures were incredibly rare, and even a single piece was enough to transform someone's constitution into that of ultimate darkness.
"What's this?" Zi Ji asked in surprise as she examined the crystal. The pure dark energy within it astonished her. She hadn't thought such a gem, brimming with untainted darkness, could exist in the world.
If she could absorb it, her power would undoubtedly skyrocket.
Ultimate Darkness—currently, only Di Tian possessed such an attribute in the entire Star Dou Forest.
"Master Qian Ran, is this for me?"
"I have more. Just absorb it. The stronger you become, the more it will benefit me as well." Qian Ran smiled nonchalantly. He only needed one crystal for himself, so giving one to Zi Ji was no big deal.
As the Hell Demon Dragon King, Zi Ji wielded water and darkness, combined as Yin Water. If she mastered ultimate darkness, it would become her dominant attribute.
Hearing Qian Ran's assurance, Zi Ji stopped hesitating and silently stored the crystal. This gesture made her even more devoted to him. The love in her eyes grew so intense it seemed almost tangible.
Qian Ran hadn't expected Zi Ji to submit to him so quickly. Her infamy as a fierce and untamable soul beast had led him to believe she'd be harder to win over. He had thought Bi Ji, with her gentle and nurturing personality, would be easier.
Yet here Zi Ji was, falling for him fast and hard.
When the two reached the Star Dou Forest's core region, Ice Emperor and Snow Emperor flew over, relieved to see Qian Ran emerge from the Lake of Life unharmed.
"You're okay!"
The two Emperors were visibly overjoyed.
Qian Ran had been meeting with the Silver Dragon King, and they had been deeply worried. While they were confident in handling any enemies Qian Ran encountered outside, there was nothing they could do if Gu Yuena had decided to harm him.
(Chapter Ends)