The training grounds were filled with murmurs and stares—Ye Feng had returned from the Underground Duel Ring not only undefeated, but with a presence that now seemed too vast to ignore.
His robes fluttered slightly in the breeze, but not a speck of dust dared cling to him. He walked like he owned the place.
In many ways now... he did.
[System Update: Public Awe = +2 Levels][Passive Effect Triggered: Presence of a King]→ Surrounding NPCs feel instinctive respect or fear based on relationship value.→ Romantic interest multiplier: +25% attraction gain from observed dominance.→ Side Effect: Jealousy of exes intensifies. Teehee~
Across the courtyard, Lin Ruyan stood frozen.
She had told herself it was just curiosity that made her glance over.
She had told herself it was guilt. Or concern.
But as she watched the crowd part before Ye Feng—admirers blushing, warriors nodding in respect, and even a few female disciples giggling from afar—her heart twisted like a strangled vine.
Was that… envy?
She remembered the way he used to chase after her, eyes full of adoration.
Now, he didn't even look her way.
Even Liu Wushen, standing beside her, shifted uncomfortably.
"Impossible," Ruyan muttered. "He's still trash. Just lucky. That's all…"
Her words tasted bitter.
Just then, Ye Feng stopped. Someone was blocking his path.
A girl.
Not just any girl.
Long silver hair like silk under moonlight, eyes like starlit ice, and an expression that was neither shy nor bold—but something... confident.
She wore the robes of an Outer Sect alchemist, but the embroidery on her collar suggested she was of noble birth.
"Ye Feng." Her voice was cool. Collected. Clear as a temple bell."I'm Xue Yuning. I watched your duel last night… You're strong. Brutal. Honest."
He raised an eyebrow.
"Are you flirting with me in front of the sect elders?"
Yuning smiled faintly. "No. I'm offering partnership."
"…With benefits?"
[System Prompt: ❄ Cold Beauty Encountered!]→ Hidden Affection +15→ Unique Trait Detected: Ice-Attribute Heart (Can influence cultivation synergy!)→ Romantic Path Option: [Alchemical Affinity] unlocked.
Behind them, Lin Ruyan bit her lip hard.
She had never heard of Xue Yuning before. But now everyone was whispering her name.
And worse—Ye Feng was listening to her. Talking. Smirking. Just like he used to with her.
"What are you doing, Feng…" she whispered.
Ye Feng turned, catching Lin Ruyan's eyes just for a heartbeat.
He said nothing.
But that brief glance said more than words ever could.
I don't chase anymore.You had your chance.Now you can watch.
[Passive Triggered: Iron Face — Cold Response Delivered]→ +10 Reputation→ +1 Romantic Rivalry Triggered→ Side Note: Hell hath no fury like an ex watching you glow-up.