Zi Yan's Little Scheme
Inside the tent, the atmosphere gradually became more harmonious.
Although Queen Medusa was only meeting these people for the first time, she already knew the personalities and backgrounds of the women around Xiao Yan well—after all, in her Seven-Colored Heaven Swallowing Python form, she had been by Xiao Yan's side for a long time, witnessing his efforts and growth, and knew that these girls had extremely powerful backgrounds.
Therefore, she never intended to act like Medusa from the beginning. Instead, she unexpectedly addressed them as "sisters." Although her tone was light, it was sincere, which naturally won the hearts of Yao Ling and the others.
"Now that you sisters have arrived, please stay with the Snake-Person Tribe for a few days." Queen Medusa's gaze swept over Yao Ling, Huo Zhi, Shi Xuanxuan, and Ling Yanfei. "Although the Snake-Person Tribe's newly built camp is simple, the place to entertain guests is quiet enough."
Then, she glanced at Zi Yan, who was snuggling up to her, and her lips curled into a barely perceptible smile, "Zi Yan, you seem to like me quite a bit."
Upon hearing this, Zi Yan immediately nodded vigorously, still clinging tightly to Queen Medusa's arm.
"Medusa, you smell so good! And being near you makes me feel so comfortable, like I've met someone close to me, it makes me feel so safe."
Queen Medusa gave a soft "hmm" and said nothing more.
As Seven-Colored Heaven Swallowing Python, she was equally sensitive to the aura of the Ancient Void Dragon. Although they were not of the same race, both possessed top-tier bloodlines in the Beast World, so it was normal for them to be attracted to each other.
Seeing that the group was getting along well, Xiao Yan breathed a sigh of relief.
He was actually a little worried that Queen Medusa's aloof nature might cause some conflict with her two sisters who were already engaged to him, but now it seems that he had worried too much.
"Since Sister Sha says so, we will take our leave."
Yao Ling was the first to agree with a smile. She was also quite curious about Queen Medusa, and was naturally delighted to have the opportunity to get to know her better.
Huo Zhi, Shi Xuanxuan, and Ling Yanfei all nodded in agreement.
Although they came from Ancient Clans, they knew that Queen Medusa, whose true form was the Seven-Colored Heaven Swallowing Python, was no less talented or accomplished than them. Moreover, Medusa was also ahead of them in their relationship with Xiao Yan. Since it was a kind gesture from her, they naturally wouldn't refuse.
"By the way," Queen Medusa suddenly looked at Xiao Yan, her tone slightly solemn, "Your father and the elders of the family in Wutan City have been preparing for many days, and the engagement arrangements are basically complete."
"However..." She paused, a hint of helplessness flashing in her eyes, "The major families of the Jia Ma Empire, and even some neighboring forces in the Northwest Continent, have all sent congratulatory gifts upon hearing that you are to be engaged to the Snake-Person Queen. Now, Wutan City is bustling with guests and extremely lively."
Xiao Yan wasn't surprised by this, and simply nodded.
"As expected. With the Yan Alliance newly established and my successive marriage alliances with the Misty Cloud Sect and the Snake-Person Tribe, outsiders see this as a sign of a reshuffling of power in the Jia Ma Empire. Naturally, they want to come and observe and curry favor. This engagement banquet is clearly a good opportunity."
"Therefore, it's best if you don't return directly to Wutan City these next few days," Queen Medusa said calmly, "To avoid being bogged down in social obligations. It's better to stay here and cultivate in peace, and then reappear on the day of the engagement."
Xiao Yan nodded in agreement.
He was already too lazy to deal with those insincere situations, and besides, Medusa's words clearly indicated that she wanted to spend a few more days with him.
Therefore, for the next few days, Xiao Yan and the women stayed temporarily in the Snake-Person Tribe Camp.
During the day, Xiao Yan spent most of his time accompanying Queen Medusa to handle some clan affairs, continuing to show his face and make his presence felt. At night, he focused on cultivation, while continuing to nurture his Heavenly Flames and make up for the losses caused by the separation of his Child Flame.
Yao Ling and the others did the same, strolling around the Snake-Person Tribe Camp, experiencing its unique exotic customs, and tasting some local delicacies, which made for quite a lively experience.
Since they were brought back by Prince Consort Xiao Yan, and the Queen's Guard personally acted as guides, they didn't encounter any ignorant Snake-People harassing them. On the contrary, after learning that they were Xiao Yan's friends, many Snake-People treated them with great respect.
Clearly, Xiao Yan has gained considerable prestige among the Snake-Person Tribe.
Zi Yan, on the other hand, became completely attached to Queen Medusa. Whenever Xiao Yan was not around, she would immediately appear and follow behind the Medusa like a little tail.
Queen Medusa was quite "tolerant" of her, letting her do whatever she wanted, and even occasionally giving Zi Yan pointers on how to use her bloodline power.
Despite their different bloodlines, high-level magical beasts often share a common understanding of the essence of power.
Yao Ling would occasionally appear in Xiao Yan's room in the middle of the night, attempting to offer him extra food, but Xiao Yan would sternly refuse.
He prepared to conserve his energy and be well-prepared so that he would have enough strength to fully conquer this proud Medusa when the crucial moment came.
A few more peaceful days passed, with only one day left until the engagement.
Early that morning, Xiao Yan was studying the Heavenly Flames in the open space outside his camp when he suddenly sensed several familiar auras rushing towards him from afar.
He stopped and looked up, only to see several streaks of light flash across the sky and quickly land in front of the camp.
The person in the lead, dressed in an elegant moon-white dress, with a gentle and graceful demeanor, was none other than Yun Yun.
Beside her stood Ya Fei, dressed in a magnificent long gown, looking alluring and charming. The two stood side by side, their gazes both fixed on Xiao Yan.
Behind them followed several people— Hai Bodong, Fa Ma, Gu He, Mu Chen, Nalan Jie, Jia Xingtian, and Princesses Yaoye and Yaoyue.
"Brother Xiao Yan!" Ya Fei spoke first, beaming with joy, "We've come especially to congratulate you."
Yun Yun nodded gently, her gaze falling on Xiao Yan, her eyes filled with tender affection.
Xiao Yan stepped forward and greeted them with a smile, "Sister Yun, Sister Ya Fei, what brings you here? And Elder Hai, everyone's here?"
Jia Xingtian smiled and said:
"How could we not come when our leader is engaged? Moreover, this is a marriage alliance with Queen Medusa, a momentous event in the entire Jia Ma Empire. Some neighboring empires have also sent powerful figures, so we naturally must come to support our leader!"
Hai Bodong maintained his cold expression, but a smile played in his eyes as he patted Xiao Yan on the shoulder, "Kid, congratulations!"
Amidst the pleasantries, Queen Medusa emerged from her tent.
She wasn't dressed in formal attire today, only in a simple purple robe, but her imposing Medusa aura still made Jia Xingtian and the others shudder and bow respectfully.
"Greetings, Your Medusa."
"Jia Xingtian said solemnly."
Hai Bodong also composed himself, somewhat guiltily shielding Xiao Yan in front of him.
Although Queen Medusa is now Xiao Yan's woman, he still can't help but feel a sense of dread when he sees her.
Having my Dou Qi sealed away is truly unbearable!
Queen Medusa nodded slightly, her gaze sweeping over Yun Yun and Ya Fei, a slight smile playing on her lips, "My two sisters have also arrived."
Yun Yun and Ya Fei exchanged a glance and called out in unison, "Sister Medusa."
The way she called him "sister" was so natural that it made Jia Xingtian, Hai Bodong, and the others secretly gasp in astonishment. Who would have thought that Queen Medusa, who once struck fear into the hearts of the Jia Ma Empire, would now address the Misty Cloud Sect Master and the head of the Mittel Family as sisters? And what's more, these three women, who possess beauty, status, and strength, have all submitted to Xiao Yan alone.
Xiao Yan touched his nose, feeling slightly uneasy.
Although the women seem to be getting along well right now, I have a feeling that if they're not careful, they could easily fall into a chaotic mess...
"This isn't the place to talk. Let's go inside and discuss it."
Xiao Yan smiled and invited everyone into the Snake-Person Tribe's camp.
Yun Yun and Ya Fei had already made preparations, so after a brief conversation with Queen Medusa, they were already true sisters, chatting and laughing freely.
Afterwards, led by Queen Medusa, the two went to greet Yao Ling and the other girls and cultivate their relationship.
As for Xiao Yan, he led everyone around the Snake-Person Tribe's camp, acting as a peacemaker and facilitating a friendly exchange between the high-ranking officials of the Jia Ma Empire and the Snake-Person Tribe's leaders.
With Xiao Yan present, nothing unexpected happened. Both sides exercised restraint and forbearance, and their exchange yielded fruitful results.
That afternoon, Xiao Yan gathered everyone in the main tent and briefly discussed the details of the engagement ceremony.
In fact, most of the arrangements had already been made by Xiao Zhan and his Xiao Family. The main purpose of their trip was to congratulate Xiao Yan and support him.
After all, this was the wedding of the Alliance Leader, their boss. Xiao Yan not remember who came, but he knew very well who didn't.
"Wutan City is now overcrowded," Yaoye reported. "The Jia Ma Imperial Family has dispatched a contingent of imperial guards to maintain order, but there are too many forces coming to observe the ceremony, including many Dou Wang and even Dou Emperor level experts. I'm just worried that some people will take this opportunity to cause trouble."
Queen Medusa snorted coldly upon hearing this, "If any scoundrel dares to cause trouble at my engagement banquet, I will not hesitate to slaughter his entire family."
The murderous intent in her words caused the temperature in the tent to plummet. Jia Xingtian quickly laughed and said, "An engagement is a joyous occasion, why resort to violence? If a fight really needs to be fought, a few of us are enough."
Yun Yun also said gently, "Sister, don't worry, I've already asked the teacher to warn those people. If they dare to disturb your engagement banquet, they'll be sure to come back never to return!"
Xiao Yan nodded and agreed, "That's right. If anyone is courting death, I'll kill their entire family, one by one."
Upon hearing this, Ya Fei chided helplessly, "It's best if such a joyous occasion goes smoothly. Otherwise, wouldn't their dirty blood taint your engagement ceremony with Medusa? Don't worry, with us here, anyone who dares to cause trouble will be killed!"
"..."
Seeing that Xiao Yan and his three fiancées had already shown their determination to kill, the rest of the group was stunned.
Good heavens, so they're a family of killers?
That night, the moonlight was as clear as water.
Xiao Yan stood alone on the cliff outside the camp, gazing in the direction of Wutan City.
The lights stretched out like a galaxy on earth, a beautiful and relaxing sight that made Xiao Yan feel very at ease.
Light footsteps sounded behind her. Zi Yan had slipped over without her noticing and plopped down on the edge of the cliff, swinging her fair and delicate legs.
"Xiao Yan, you're getting married!"
Zi Yan tilted her head and suddenly said.
"They're engaged!"
Xiao Yan chuckled and ruffled her hair, correcting her.
"Then... will you get engaged to Sister Yao Ling and the others in the future? When you have so many women, will you no longer play with me and make pills for me like before?"
Zi Yan's voice was muffled, with a distinct sense of bitterness in her tone.
Clearly, the little girl seemed to be feeling some sense of crisis.
Xiao Yan chuckled softly, reached out and ruffled her smooth purple hair, and said gently:
"How could that be? You're my good friend, my dear sister, how could I distance myself from you?"
Zi Yan blinked, then suddenly leaned closer and whispered:
"Then... when I grow up, will you get engaged to me like you got engaged to them, and then marry me?"
Xiao Yan was taken aback, looking down into her clear yet stubborn purple eyes, unsure how to respond.
After all, Zi Yan was so young that it was difficult for him to have any criminal thoughts.
Moreover, Zi Yan is indeed childlike, unlike her other older sisters who are more mature. They know what they want to do, why they should be with Xiao Yan, and what they should do in order to be with him.
But Zi Yan is different. Even now, she still doesn't understand what it means to like someone or what it means to love them. For her, it's more about dependence... well, and some physical instincts.
Yes, that's what a lecherous dragon is like.
"I..."
Xiao Yan wanted to explain things to Zi Yan properly, but Zi Yan didn't wait for his response and just said to herself:
"Well, never mind, I guess I shouldn't be telling you this now, but remember, you can't distance yourself from me, and you have to wait for me to grow up."
After saying that, she jumped up, brushed the grass clippings off her skirt, and ran away in a flash.
Beneath the purple hair were burning hot earlobes and a clearly audible heartbeat emanating from her chest.
Saying such things was a huge challenge for her.
Fortunately, she completed the challenge quite well.
At least from now on, Xiao Yan can no longer treat her just as a little sister who never grows up. When she grows up, she can naturally be with Xiao Yan like any of his other older sisters.
Xiao Yan has too many women; as his younger sister, it's impossible for her to stay by his side forever.
So she has to join that family!
Besides, she really likes those older sisters. If she can't be best friends for life, she'll definitely regret it, right?
Xiao Yan watched her figure disappear into the night, shaking his head and smiling bitterly.
This girl... she's got a lot of nerve.
"Looks like you really have a lot of romantic entanglements."
A slightly mocking voice sounded from behind him. Xiao Yan turned around and saw that Queen Medusa had appeared beside him at some point.
She changed into a long black dress, her long hair cascading down like a waterfall, gleaming faintly in the moonlight.
"Medusa..."
Xiao Yan looked at Queen Medusa had changed into a new outfit, and was both surprised and delighted.
In the past Queen Medusa was usually dressed in gorgeous purple and red robes, looking like a noble Medusa. This is the first time I've seen her dressed in such a pure black witch style.
In fact, this was one of the many clothes that Ya Fei, who knew Xiao Yan's quirks, gave to Queen Medusa.
Given her personality and methods, it was impossible for her to meet Queen Medusa, one of Xiao Yan's soon-to-be fiancées, empty-handed.
"I really like that little girl, Zi Yan. Although as someone who's engaged to a fourteen-year-old boy, I don't normally have the right to say this to you, I still have to remind you that she's still just a child. She may not understand things, but you can't be."
Queen Medusa paused for a moment, then spoke somewhat hesitantly.
After all, the truth is as she said. If we really calculate by age, Xiao Yan and Zi Yan are no different; they should both be considered children.
However, Xiao Yan's current strong physique and mature demeanor make it hard for people to believe that he is still a fourteen-year-old boy who was specially approved to participate in the coming-of-age ceremony.
"Don't worry, I know what I'm doing. We're getting engaged tomorrow, and I'm already a little excited."
Xiao Yan smiled, took Queen Medusa's hand, and said softly.
Upon hearing this, Queen Medusa turned her head and looked at Xiao Yan's smiling, handsome face. The coldness in her eyes faded, leaving only tenderness.
"I'm looking forward to it too, Your Prince Consort."