PID Chapter 123

Once again kofi thanks to Lily!!

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On the day the Tianyuan Secret Realm opened, human cultivators and the new Demon Sovereign gathered outside the entrance with their forces, fully prepared.

 

They had sealed off the area around the entrance, ready to rigorously inspect everyone exiting the secret realm—no one would be allowed to slip through unnoticed.

 

With Fenxiu missing, the ceremony to establish a new alliance between humans and demons had been postponed. Fenxiu alone had stirred up chaos and conflict between both sides. Without him in custody, neither side could feel at ease.

 

Moreover, it was still unclear how many people had been involved in rescuing Fenxiu. Those accomplices needed to be rooted out as well—captured all at once.

 

When Xiao Mo and Chu Jinglan emerged from the secret realm, they were greeted by layers upon layers of cultivators standing guard, all on high alert as if facing a great enemy.

 

Yue Ming, Jun Bushu, and Wang Yichen were also present. Sharp-eyed as always, they immediately spotted Xiao Mo and Chu Jinglan.

 

The Tianyuan Secret Realm was vast, and they weren’t sure if Xiao Mo and Chu Jinglan were aware of what had transpired. Yue Ming quickly sent a transmission to Chu Jinglan, informing him that Fenxiu might have hidden among the crowd.

 

The disciples exiting the secret realm were startled by the imposing scene outside. Among them was the rogue cultivator Xiao Mo had saved earlier—still alive. Spotting Xiao Mo in the crowd, he immediately ran over with enthusiasm. “Benefactor!”

 

He bowed deeply to Xiao Mo. “We parted so hastily before—I didn’t even have time to ask for your name. I am Xuan Xiaoyang. May I ask for my benefactor’s name?”

 

Xiao Mo glanced at the situation around them and thought for a moment before replying to Xuan Xiaoyang: “Wait a moment.”

 

Though confused, Xuan Xiaoyang’s eyes sparkled with gratitude as he stood obediently by.

 

The crowd was clearly focused on investigating Fenxiu and Su Baimo. While Chu Jinglan could communicate with Yue Ming through transmissions, even if Yue Ming, Jun Bushu, and Wang Yichen explained that Fenxiu was dead, other sects would remain suspicious—especially since the Demon Sovereign was present. They would demand answers: How do you know?

 

Would Jun Bushu pretend to perform a divination on the spot? That could work—but for some people, doubts would linger like a thorn in their hearts. After all, this wasn’t just any mystery; it concerned major matters between humans and demons. For the demon race especially, Fenxiu’s celestial demon bloodline was too significant. Without clear answers, they wouldn’t feel secure.

 

The sect master of Yaori Sect stepped forward and addressed everyone: “We suspect that individuals attempting to sabotage the human-demon alliance have infiltrated the Tianyuan Secret Realm. We will now verify everyone’s identity. Please do not panic—representatives from major sects and noble families are present; no innocent person will be wrongfully accused.”

 

Xiao Mo nudged Chu Jinglan with his elbow. “What do you think?”

 

Chu Jinglan pondered for a moment before stepping forward to stand in front of those exiting the secret realm.

 

Xiao Mo followed him with a cheerful smile and casually gestured for Xuan Xiaoyang to come along. Though still confused, Xuan Xiaoyang obediently trailed behind them.

 

“There’s no need for an invest

 

igation,” Chu Jinglan announced as he stood at the forefront of the crowd.

 

Instantly, all eyes turned toward him.

 

“Fenxiu is dead.”

 

The few words rang clearly in everyone’s ears, and the crowd erupted in an uproar. The sect master of Yaori Sect was about to ask for more details when he saw the Du-E Sect disciple before him remove a thin, transparent mask as delicate as cicada wings.

 

The face beneath it transformed into one he was all too familiar with.

 

The sect master choked on his breath, while the elder beside him was utterly dumbfounded. “Xian-Xianzun!”

 

Chu Jinglan responded calmly, “Mm.”

 

He withdrew the concealment on his cultivation, and the overwhelming aura of a Return to Void cultivator poured out instantly. In that moment, the heads of the crowd seemed to bow lower as if by instinct. Everyone immediately bent into respectful bows, their voices rising in unison: “Greetings, Xianzun!”

 

Chu Jinglan’s expression remained as calm as still water. “The demon cultivator Su Baimo and Fenxiu attempted to escape but were slain by me and my Dao companion within the Tianyuan Secret Realm. The human-demon alliance may proceed as planned—there is no need for concern.”

 

Since Chu Jinglan had openly mentioned himself, Xiao Mo thought for a moment before removing his own mask as well. His previously unremarkable face shifted into one of stunning beauty, drawing a few instinctive gasps of admiration from the crowd. As these murmurs reached Xiao Mo’s ears, he glanced sideways at Chu Jinglan.

 

The same Chu Jinglan who had once declared that he wanted to hide Xiao Mo away so no one else could see him now felt Xiao Mo’s gaze on him. A voice echoed in Xiao Mo’s sea of consciousness through Chu Jinglan’s transmission: “I still want to hide you.”

 

Xiao Mo blinked.

 

“But letting them know you’re mine isn’t bad either.”

 

Xiao Mo’s lips curved into a smile. “And you’re mine.”

 

“Of course.”

 

This exchange in their sea of consciousness was inaudible to anyone else—it warmed only their hearts. Meanwhile, Xuan Xiaoyang, who had followed them up, stood frozen in shock, his mouth agape wide enough to fit an egg.

 

Xiao Mo turned to him and said, “Now I can tell you my name. Hello, I’m Xiao Mo.”

 

Earlier, Xiao Mo had guessed that Chu Jinglan might reveal his identity, so he hadn’t bothered giving Xuan Xiaoyang a false name.

 

Xuan Xiaoyang was utterly dumbfounded. After a long pause, he stammered nervously: “You-you… um, no—I mean, hello.”

 

Xiao Mo smiled gently. “No need to be so formal.”

 

Hearing Xiao Mo’s lighthearted tone made Xuan Xiaoyang blush furiously. He fidgeted nervously and stammered again: “But… but I must be polite!”

 

Realizing he’d blurted out his inner thoughts halfway through his sentence, Xuan Xiaoyang turned beet red and clamped his hands over his mouth in embarrassment, wishing he could find a hole to crawl into.

 

But when he saw Xiao Mo’s soft smile—like the light of an autumn moon—his heavy embarrassment seemed to lift immediately. Scratching his head awkwardly, he let out a cheerful laugh that revealed a set of bright white teeth.

 

Chu Jinglan raised his hand and revealed a magical artifact. The sect master of Lingxiao Sect lost his composure for once and stepped forward hastily without regard for formalities: “This—this is—”

 

It was none other than the treasured artifact stolen from Lingxiao Sect by Su Baimo.

 

As it turned out, Qiuqiu had rummaged through Su Baimo’s storage device and brought it back to its master. From there, Chu Jinglan had retrieved the artifact belonging to Lingxiao Sect.

 

Chu Jinglan said simply: “Returning it to its rightful owner.”

 

The sect master of Lingxiao Sect led all his disciples present in bowing deeply toward Chu Jinglan: “Many thanks to Xianzun!”

 

Several sect masters and the Demon Sovereign eagerly invited Chu Jinglan: “Many thanks to Xianzun for your intervention. Since you are already here, why not serve as a witness to the human-demon alliance?”

 

Chu Jinglan replied calmly, “No need. I have other matters to attend to and will be leaving now.”

 

Hearing this, no one dared to press him further. However, Yue Ming couldn’t help but ask, “What urgent matter do you have?”

 

Chu Jinglan answered plainly, “Preparing for my Dao companion ceremony.”

 

Yue Ming: “…”

 

But isn’t it still three months away?!

 

The others, however, nodded in sudden understanding. Of course—it made perfect sense. Three months wasn’t much time at all; such an important event required thorough preparation!

 

Sensing an opportunity, an elder from Lingxiao Sect eagerly stepped forward. “Xianzun, do you need additional help? Our sect has previously organized grand banquets known throughout the cultivation world and would be honored to assist.”

 

Xiao Mo and Chu Jinglan’s ceremony was being managed by Yan Chun, but he was indeed handling a lot on his own. Mo Zhi and Chu Xia could only follow his instructions and weren’t experienced enough to provide much input. If a few skilled helpers could lighten Yan Chun’s workload, it would undoubtedly make things smoother.

 

Chu Jinglan nodded slightly. “Very well. Thank you.”

 

The Lingxiao Sect elder froze in shock for a moment. Once he confirmed he hadn’t misheard, his face lit up with joy. “It’s our honor! I’ll send word to the sect immediately—no, right now—and have them set out for Du-E Sect at once!”

 

The other sect members overheard this exchange and found it rather surprising. While they didn’t dare voice their thoughts aloud, many secretly wondered: Has Xianzun become more approachable than before? Is this just an illusion?

 

With the matter of Fenxiu resolved, the tense atmosphere within Yaori Sect finally eased. Chu Jinglan took Xiao Mo and shattered the void with a single step, returning to Du-E Sect in the blink of an eye. Mo Zhi was fortunate enough to accompany them and got a rare taste of what it felt like to traverse space.

 

When Yan Chun heard that additional helpers were coming, he was naturally delighted. While Chu Jinglan had assigned some sword puppets to assist him, they could only handle tasks like purchasing supplies or setting up decorations. Having experienced people to discuss plans with would be a significant improvement.

 

However, when Xiao Mo expressed his intention to help as well, Yan Chun firmly objected: “Sect Master, Senior Brother—you can familiarize yourselves with the process if you wish, but it’s not proper for the couple themselves to handle the arrangements. It’s against tradition! Leave everything to us.”

 

There’s such a tradition? As the event coordinator, Yan Chun’s authority suddenly rose significantly. Nodding decisively, he added: “Of course! You two just need to rest. When it comes time for you to review things like ceremonial robes or other details, we’ll present them promptly.”

 

With such considerate disciples taking charge, who wouldn’t be happy to take a break?

 

And so, informed that they weren’t allowed to handle the ceremony preparations themselves, Xiao Mo and Chu Jinglan began enjoying some early time together.

 

Xiao Mo took the opportunity to explore all eighty-one peaks of Du-E Sect.

 

Each peak offered its own unique charm—whether it was the beauty of the four seasons or breathtaking landscapes resembling celestial realms. Every mountain held new surprises as if all the world’s most stunning scenery had been gathered within Du-E Sect.

 

After seeing so many incredible sights one after another, if Xiao Mo had to choose his favorite, it would undoubtedly be this:

 

The Blessed Land of Yizhao Peak.

 

The wonders of this peak weren’t naturally formed but were instead created by a Return to Void expert who had opened up a special space within it. Supported by formations that preserved its beauty indefinitely, the scenery inside was entirely shaped by human design.

 

Upon stepping into this realm, one would find themselves beneath a night sky where a bright full moon shone overhead without dimming the brilliance of countless stars scattered across the heavens. The stars wove together into a shimmering Milky Way that served as a magnificent backdrop for the moon.

 

The mountain forests here were serene; floral fragrances lingered along winding paths through the woods. Atop the mountain stood a small pavilion from which one could gaze down at rolling seas of clouds.

 

While not the most visually striking scene among all the peaks, it was undoubtedly Xiao Mo’s favorite.

 

Xiao Mo gazed at the breathtaking scenery from the foot of the mountain, his heart stirring with emotion. At that moment, Chu Jinglan turned to look at him.

 

Xiao Mo extended his hand and said with a playful smile, “Carry me up, Chu Jinglan.”

 

The mighty Xianzun lowered his head for him.

 

The shoulders that now carried Xiao Mo no longer bore the youthful awkwardness of their younger days. Chu Jinglan’s steps through the mountain forest were steady and sure, different from the past. As he carried Xiao Mo up the mountain path, Xiao Mo raised his flute to his lips and began playing their melody.

 

Their journey had not been without regrets. But while their past held the pure and earnest feelings of their youth, their present carried the completion of a melody they had created together.

 

It wasn’t perfect—it had its stumbles and imperfections—but it was fulfilling. They were still walking this path together, entrusting their hearts to one another. Chu Jinglan’s back was steady, and Xiao Mo felt reassured by its warmth.

 

They had changed, yet they hadn’t. The future held countless opportunities for them to walk these forest paths again, to gaze at the moon and stars, and to compose melodies that belonged only to them. And that was enough.

 

Chu Jinglan walked neither too fast nor too slow. By the time they reached the mountaintop, Xiao Mo had just finished playing the entirety of Ink-Dyed Vast Waves (Mo Ran Cang Lan).

 

With his arms wrapped around Chu Jinglan’s neck, Xiao Mo leaned close to his ear and whispered, “Next time, I’ll carry you.”

 

Chu Jinglan’s response was to turn his head slightly and capture Xiao Mo’s lips in a kiss.

 

Under the brilliant moonlight and sparkling stars, their love burned brightly.

 

While leisurely exploring the wonders of Du-E Sect, three months passed quickly. Xiao Mo and Chu Jinglan traveled to the lower realm to pay respects at Wan Yu’s grave. As Chu Jinglan bent down to carefully clean the tombstone, the sword tassel on his blade swayed gently with his movements.

 

The tassel was a silver-blue knotted cord symbolizing peace and well-being. At its end hung a translucent ice lotus crystal—clear and beautiful—every detail carved with care and affection.

 

It was a sword tassel crafted by Xiao Mo and now adorned Chu Jinglan’s sword.

 

Together, Xiao Mo and Chu Jinglan tidied up the area around the grave. Holding incense in his hands, Chu Jinglan said softly: “Mother, I’ve brought my Dao companion to see you.”

 

Xiao Mo also held incense as he knelt down in respect: “I vow to be united with Jinglan as his Dao companion and stay by his side always. Please be at ease.”

 

Chu Jinglan turned slightly to look at Xiao Mo.

 

His gaze carried something no one else could understand—but how could Xiao Mo not?

 

For a moment, Xiao Mo felt flustered. His eyes darted around nervously before his ears gradually turned red.

 

But Chu Jinglan didn’t look away; he simply continued gazing at him quietly.

 

Xiao Mo felt like his tongue was tied in knots as he opened and closed his mouth several times without managing to say anything coherent. Finally—when even his face began to flush red under Chu Jinglan’s unwavering gaze—Xiao Mo managed to finish his sentence with a single word:

 

“…Mother.”

 

A gentle mountain breeze swept through the air, stirring golden flecks in Chu Jinglan’s eyes as it passed. It rustled the leaves shading the tombstone—those leaves swayed softly as if nodding in approval, serene and tender.

 

The wind seemed to bless them as well.

 

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In the cultivation world, every thousand years marks a change in the era name. Today was the 620th year of the Hongxin Era, the seventh day of the fifth month—a day auspicious for marriage.

 

Du-E Sect, which had been cold and quiet for years, was now illuminated by vibrant clouds and filled with blessings. The once-silent sect was alive with bustling voices and activity as magnificent celestial boats—some grand and imposing, others exquisitely beautiful—sailed toward Du-E Sect, breaking through its long-standing solitude.

 

From afar at the mountain gates, one could see a thousand miles adorned in red. Silk clouds trailed along the ground, celestial music echoed endlessly, and the graceful tail feathers of the Golden Flame Flowing Fire Phoenix streaked across the sky. Flocks of birds with dazzling wings danced alongside it in the clouds.

 

A hundred birds paid homage to the phoenix, carrying various spiritual herbs in their beaks. Occasionally, they would drop these herbs to destined individuals below. Even passersby were bathed in the rich and pure spiritual energy of the event, leaving their bodies and minds refreshed and cleansed.

 

This was an unprecedentedly grand Dao companion ceremony. The guests included prodigies and nobles from the upper realm, countless rare treasures and exquisite artifacts were displayed, and the hosts spared no expense in their preparations. It was a spectacle so extraordinary that it would likely be unmatched for years to come.

 

Jun Bushu didn’t perform any divinations but confidently declared: “A day of great fortune.”

 

Yue Ming had been keeping track of time ever since taking his seat. When a resounding phoenix cry echoed across the sky, Yue Ming looked up excitedly: “They’re here!”

 

Two figures appeared hand in hand, stepping gracefully across the clouds.

 

One wore a radiant red robe adorned with golden hairpins—a vision of peach blossoms and fiery brilliance, captivating and dazzling; the other was strikingly handsome, like a jade tree in a heavenly forest.

 

Though everyone knew their beauty was unparalleled, many still found themselves speechless and unable to look away.

 

Standing there together amidst countless praises and admiration, one thought stood out clearly in everyone’s minds:

 

They are a match made in heaven.

 

No one else could complement them so perfectly—only each other. They were destined for one another, like pearls strung together in flawless harmony.

 

Xiao Mo and Chu Jinglan walked hand in hand toward the high platform.

 

Their ceremonial robes were intricate and heavy, with long trailing hems that swept across the ground as they moved with solemn grace. Xiao Mo could hear his own heartbeat pounding like a drum as he stared straight ahead, too nervous to glance at the person beside him.

 

It wasn’t until he felt Chu Jinglan’s grip on his hand tighten slightly that he realized—

 

…He wasn’t the only one feeling nervous. Even Xianzun Chu Jinglan—revered by thousands—was secretly flustered because of him.

 

The tension in Xiao Mo’s shoulders eased instantly as he let out a soft laugh.

 

He didn’t turn his head, but moments later, he heard a faint chuckle beside him.

 

Like spring wind brushing across a lake—subtle yet profound.

 

Today was their joyous day; their hearts were perfectly aligned.

 

Hand in hand, they ascended the high platform to honor heaven and earth, present their marriage certificate, and seal their Dao companion mark.

 

Not every Dao companion ceremony included such formalities since some couples chose not to form a Dao companion mark. But Xiao Mo and Chu Jinglan not only formed one—they chose the Red Luan mark.

 

Since they had already established their mark previously, this final step involved taking up brushes to retrace it once more.

 

Chu Jinglan gently lifted Xiao Mo’s chin and placed the soft tip of his brush against the blooming red lotus on Xiao Mo’s forehead before carefully tracing over it.

 

 

Stroke by stroke, their hearts became one, binding their beloved into their days and nights forever.

 

Then it was Xiao Mo’s turn to lift the brush. With delicate precision, he traced the blooming Night-Blooming Cereus on Chu Jinglan’s forehead.

 

Two wings, one branch, united in harmony; together for eternity, hand in hand through lifetimes.

 

As they completed the indelible Red Luan mark, their gazes met, and in each other’s eyes, there was only the reflection of their beloved.

 

“—The ceremony is complete! Heaven and earth bear witness to this perfect union. May these two lovers sing in harmony like phoenixes and remain bound in eternal love!”

 

Amidst the vastness of the mortal world, they had found each other and would never lose their way again. No matter how wide the heavens or earth stretched, their hearts had found a home.

 

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T/N: And with this, the main story is COMPLETED!!!

Never had I imagined that this novel would be completed so soon.

 

ANZHE GONNA MISS XIAO MO AND CHU JINGLAN VERY MUCH!!! .·°՞(¯□¯)՞°·.

 

(extras ahead!)