Chapter 143: Justice?

Yun Che and his party emerged at the base of the island after their exploration, only to find that the suspended island had transformed. It now gleamed high in the sky, encircled by clouds, a radiant beacon compared to its previous state. Their arrival at the bottom seemed almost magical, as they materialized seemingly out of thin air. Waiting for them were the venerable old priest, Old Fan, and the city lord.

"Benefactor Yun... I'm not sure what you did, but this place now shines brighter than ever," Old Fan humbly bowed, a gesture echoed by Huan Bei and all the sanctuary's residents.

"Old Fan, I merely returned her home. She rests up there now," Yun Che replied with a gracious gesture.

"I see. Then, none of us can visit the creator?" Old Fan inquired, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. He had hoped they might have the privilege to visit the creator, but Yun Che shook his head.

"No, only these girls and I can visit her whenever they wish. Now that our task is complete, we shall take our leave," Yun Che replied with a bow.

"Benefactor Yun, the sanctuary is forever indebted to you for returning the creator to us. If there is any wish you hold, please do not hesitate..." Old Fan offered sincerely.

"We appreciate your kindness," Yun Che replied. He and his companions then bowed before Huan Bei escorted them back to the entrance. With the inner zone's curious onlookers surrounding the sanctuary, they opted to exit through a hidden door.

Huan Bei followed them, eager to share his thoughts. "Yun Che, you are truly remarkable. I suppose cultivators are capable of performing miracles."

"Yes, but not all cultivators are like us," Yun Che responded cryptically. He was relieved that Huan Bei remained unaware of the true nature of the outside world.

As Yun Che's group departed, the other spectators observed their exit. When Lin Xin passed by the old priest, he couldn't resist a final offer. "Lin Xin... should you ever reconsider working here, my offer still stands." Since Yun Che had mentioned that only his party could access the island, the old priest hoped Lin Xin might stay and retrieve valuable items or artifacts from the creator's resting place. However, Yun Che had anticipated this and hoped Lin Xin would decline the offer.

"Old Fan, my decision remains unchanged. I want to raise Xueli and explore a different path in life. But I promise to return to visit the creator," Lin Xin replied firmly. She yearned to bring Xueli up to the island to play among the flowers. Lin Xin bowed respectfully before adding in a hushed tone, "If you expect me to retrieve something from up there, please forget about it. I wouldn't want to show any disrespect to her resting place." The old priest fell silent, realizing that Lin Xin could sense his intentions. He had nothing to say but allowed her to leave. Despite his emotions, he was powerless to act. Even as the head priest, he couldn't access the island, whereas Yun Che and his companions could come and go freely. He recalled Huan Bei mentioning something about being a cultivator.

Could he afford to offend them?

Suddenly, the old priest heard Yun Che's voice echoing in his mind. "Old Fan, I understand what you're trying to do. I advised you to let it go. If you attempt to persuade Lin Xin or Xueli to enter the island, don't blame me if I show up instead of her. I hope we can come to an understanding." Then, everything fell silent. The priest and priestesses watched in amazement as their old priest suddenly sat down. How had Yun Che entered his thoughts, and how had he discerned his intentions? Was this the power of a cultivator? It seemed that Lin Xin and Xueli were beyond his reach, but perhaps he could offer them something as an apology to mend their relationship.

....

As they slipped away from the crowd through the sanctuary's back door, Lin Xin suddenly broke the silence.

"Thank you, Yun Che," she said, her eyes sparkling with gratitude.

Yun Che turned his head, along with the others, and asked, "For what, Xin'er?"

"For bringing Xueli and me with you. This has been the most incredible experience of my life. I got to visit the Moon Empress's original resting place, and she accepted all of us. Plus, you kept me from becoming an errand girl."

Yun Che affectionately patted her head before replying, "Xin'er, you're too kind for your own good, you know? If Old Han had managed to convince you to stay, he'd probably have you running back and forth to the island at his beck and call. Besides, you already have everything you need with us."

Lin Xin giggled and added, "And I'm grateful for it." They continued their stroll through the luxurious inner zone, drawing stares from the locals. Their unique kimonos and Yun Che's modern adventurer's outfit, combined with their otherworldly beauty, made them stand out. However, the people here seemed to treat commoners like a contagion and kept their distance. Thanks to their earlier encounter at the sanctuary's gate and the rumors of the city lord's support, no one dared to confront them. Most of the inner zone's residents remained preoccupied with the wonders occurring on the floating island, leaving Yun Che's group relatively unnoticed.

"Onii-chan, what are we going to cook today?" Xueli's sweet voice interrupted his thoughts from her perch on his shoulder.

"Let's explore the inner zone's marketplace," Yun Che suggested. "We'll pick up some ingredients and find a nice restaurant for lunch." The others readily agreed, except for Lin Xin, who had a thoughtful expression.

"Make sure to order for Kon-sama too," Kon chimed in from within Yun Che's coat. "I'm starving!"

Upon reaching the marketplace, they were greeted by a bustling hub of opulence. This market boasted a wide array of exquisite products and top-quality meats, a stark contrast to the offerings in the outer zone. For commoners, a single meal in this place would deplete their entire savings. Lin Xin couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions as she walked through the upscale marketplace.

"Is something bothering you, Xin'er?" Yun Che inquired, noticing her different demeanor.

"It's nothing," she replied, though her expression remained thoughtful. "I remember when I used to wander through this place, watching the rich enjoy their meals from afar. I often wondered if I'd ever have the luxury to dine here. But now that I'm here, I realize I have no desire to become one of them. I'm grateful that my husband, back then, gave up his lavish lifestyle."

Yun Che nodded in understanding. Lin Xin was not accustomed to a life of luxury, nor did she desire it. To her, opulence brought more trouble than peace, and it was associated with painful memories. Even though she had inherited the manor from her husband and he had granted her the land, Lin Xin preferred to earn her wealth through her own efforts—a trait that was rare among women in their world.

"Hmm... We might need to explore this place further to gather the necessary ingredients. There's a new recipe I've been wanting to try," Retsu mused as she scanned the marketplace for ingredients to prepare tonight's dinner.

"Nee... nee... Retsu-chan, I thought we could make curry rice for dinner. We can use the meat from this market," Mio suggested enthusiastically.

"Mio-chan, you really do love curry rice," Retsu chuckled.

"It's Danna-sama's favorite, and Yue'er and Xueli love it too, right?" Mio asked, turning to Xin'er with a grin.

"*Giggle... I never refuse a meal offered to me, but I do enjoy curry rice," Xin'er replied with a warm smile.

"Can't say I don't," Yun Che added, his face breaking into a grin. Hearing them discuss curry rice, Xueli couldn't contain her excitement. "Yay! We're having curry rice tonight!"

Seeing their playful banter, Retsu nodded with a smile. "Alright... it looks like we've settled on tonight's dinner."

As for their financial situation, the system could exchange their purple coins for gold coins, preventing any further issues, much like what happened at the gate. If purple coins caused trouble in this place, they would keep a low profile after their skirmish on the island's tomb. With the current focus primarily on the sunny island above, nobody was paying attention to them, and they had no trouble shopping in the inner zone.

After a while...

"So, have you got everything you need?" Yun Che asked as he watched his women and Lin Xin return with beaming smiles. Their expressions clearly indicated they had either acquired everything they wanted or had come close to buying out the entire market's inventory. These women spent their money on food rather than luxurious items. Yun Che noticed many vendors attempting to peddle such items to them, but they dismissed them without a second thought. Luxury goods were just mundane items in their eyes. Besides, they cherished the items Yun Che gave them more than any of the worthless junk.

"Hmm... I've learned a lot about shopping for raw materials," Lin Xin smiled, still amazed that they had nearly emptied the market's stock. The raw materials they had gathered were enough to sustain her and Xueli for months, although given the appetites of her saviors, they'd probably run out in a few days. Retsu and Mio had guided Lin Xin in selecting the finest cooking ingredients, and Yun Che was genuinely impressed by their culinary knowledge. They had already mastered most of his cooking techniques, and it wouldn't be long before they could replicate his recipes. He knew not to underestimate these women who were diligently striving to become his ideal wives.

"Muu, I couldn't help with the shopping today. My body's too small," Cang Yue pouted, eliciting a collective "aww" from the group.

"Don't worry, Yue'er. We'll come shopping again after you've recovered," Mio reassured her, hugging her like an affectionate older sister.

"We got everything we needed, although some vendors tried to scam us," Retsu replied, recalling how some merchants had attempted to deceive her by charging exorbitant prices once they saw she had plenty of gold coins. They had targeted them due to their everyday clothing, but Retsu had swiftly negotiated for the lowest prices. In the end, the scammers found themselves outwitted by her.

"And what did you do about it?" Yun Che inquired, knowing full well what their response would be.

Mio offered him a wry smile as she replied, "Retsu-chan flashed them a sweet smile, and they melted."

"No, Mio's smile was even sweeter," Retsu added, chuckling.

"Sweet, as in scared the living daylights out of them," Yun Che thought to himself. He knew that Retsu's smile could send chills down the spine of even the most hardened individuals, not to mention Mio's. When these two joined forces, no one could stand against them—cultivators included.

"I bet Retsu pulled out a kitchen knife when she smiled," Kon couldn't resist commenting, but as soon as the words left his plushy mouth, both Retsu's and Mio's deadly auras zeroed in on him. The shivers running down Kon's plushy spine hardly did justice to the terror he felt.

"Kon..." Mio's sweet voice chimed in.

"Hai??" Kon replied, his voice trembling with fear.

"You want to skip dinner tonight?" Both Retsu and Mio threatened simultaneously.

"I'm sorry," Kon squeaked from beneath Yun Che's coat, and Yun Che couldn't help but sweatdrop.

"Dude, you really don't want to see them go full Yandere on you," Yun Che quipped through their telepathic connection, and Kon vigorously nodded in agreement.

"Now that's settled, let's head to that restaurant over there. I'm starving," Yun Che pointed to a pagoda-shaped restaurant within the inner zone. Lin Xin's eyes widened in surprise. The place he had chosen was known as the most luxurious restaurant in the city, reserved only for the elite. She had always gazed at it from afar, knowing that a single meal there could cost a commoner their entire fortune. The restaurant was aptly named 'Fortune's Favor.'

"Hmm, quite ironic," Yun Che commented aloud before preparing to move. However, he felt a tug on his coat – it was Lin Xin, her head lowered. "Yun Che... can we go somewhere else? I feel like we'll be out of place there," she said softly.

"Don't worry," Yun Che reassured her. "You're safe with me. I wanted to take you there at least once, so you don't have to watch from a distance anymore. After tonight, I doubt we'll ever set foot in that place again."

"But... sigh... very well. Let's avoid any more trouble. I don't want Xueli to become accustomed to seeing you in fights," Lin Xin explained. She was concerned that witnessing too many confrontations might have a negative impact on the child's impressionable mind.

"I'll do my best to avoid it, but I'll always protect you," Yun Che replied with a nod. Lin Xin nodded in agreement, and they entered the restaurant. However, their entrance did not go unnoticed by someone in a private room within the luxurious establishment. "How did that woman manage to find her way here?" they muttered to themselves.

As Yun Che and his party settled in the lavish restaurant, they were unaware that their presence had caught the attention of a mysterious observer.

...…

Lin Xin was absolutely right. As they stepped into the opulent restaurant, they couldn't help but feel like fish out of water. Everything about this place exuded extravagance that would make even a king feel like an emperor. It was a realm of luxury that commoners would never dare to enter. Lin Xin was convinced that even the petals of the flowers adorning the restaurant were worth more than a commoner's life. The entire place was adorned with lavish decor, from high-quality furnishings to exquisite ornaments. Despite the exorbitant prices, it was evident that many people dined here, reveling in the extravagant experience.

"Stop... Do you have a reservation?" The receptionist asked them with a mocking tone.

"Do we need a reservation?" Yun Che questioned, observing that most customers seemed to enter and choose their seats without the need for a reservation.

"Hmph... Commoners like you wish to dine in this establishment? Can you even afford a drop of our water? You must pay a reservation fee if you wish to dine here," the restaurant guard sneered arrogantly.

"So, the elite can waltz in and out as they please, but commoners have to pay a reservation fee? How absurd," Yun Che remarked.

"Yuu-kun, this is daylight robbery," Retsu muttered, her sentiment echoed by Mio and Cang Yue. It was clear that the inner zone residents enjoyed taking advantage of commoners and maintaining a rigid social class system. Yun Che noticed that the guard allowed inner zone residents to enter without any issue but immediately stopped them.

"No reservation, no entry," the guard insisted, maintaining his smirk. It took every ounce of self-control for Yun Che not to confront the guard immediately. However, he had promised Lin Xin that they wouldn't cause trouble, and the guard's tone had already attracted unwanted attention from the restaurant's patrons. Yun Che didn't want to create a scene.

"What's happening here?" Yun Che's thoughts were interrupted when a well-dressed man approached them. He appeared to be a manager or staff member of the restaurant. The guard's face paled as he noticed Yun Che offering a purple coin – a clear sign of someone of importance in the city. Even worse, the guard had attempted to scam them.

"These people were attempting to enter..." the guard began but was abruptly silenced as the manager slapped him across the face with the back of his hand. The manager had seen the purple coin, a symbol of high status, and realized that Yun Che was a person of importance in the city. The guard's attempt to scam them had backfired.

"What did I tell you about harassing our customers?!" the manager scolded the guard, and even the receptionist lowered his head in embarrassment.

"But they're commoners..." the guard attempted to defend himself.

SLAP!

Another slap from the manager silenced the guard. "They possess purple gold and are welcome here. Do you want to lose your job?"

"No," the guard replied with his head hung in shame, just like the receptionist.

Yun Che retrieved the purple coin from the guard's hand and turned to the manager. Seeing the coin, the manager decided to act as their escort, leading them into the Fortune's Favor restaurant.

Once inside, they were greeted by a spectacle of opulence. The restaurant seemed to be made entirely of gold, with intricately dressed food served with utmost delicacy. Yun Che couldn't help but wonder if the food tasted as good as it looked.

They were seated at one of the restaurant's lavish tables, where they noticed an abundance of unnecessary luxury items, from high-quality plates and glasses to utensils plated in gold. Yun Che wondered where they had obtained all the gold to adorn the restaurant in such a manner.

"Are you ready to place your order, sir?" the waiter asked mockingly, seemingly aware that commoners would likely order the cheapest dishes. Whispers of mockery emanated from the surrounding customers, deriding them for entering a place that wasn't meant for people like them. Lin Xin and Xueli lowered their heads as they felt the weight of judgment from those around them.

Yun Che exchanged glances with Retsu, Mio, and Cang Yue, who seemed unphased by the mocking atmosphere. If these people wanted to ridicule them, then they had a surprise in store.

"We'll have one of everything on your menu," Yun Che declared confidently, causing both the waiter and the surrounding customers to gape in disbelief. "Dear customer, if this is a jest... it's not funny," the waiter stammered.

"Did I stutter?" Yun Che responded, raising an eyebrow at the waiter.

"How do we know you won't dine and dash?" the waiter continued, casting doubt on their intentions.

Yun Che tossed a purple coin to the waiter, who was momentarily stunned before scurrying between their table and the other customers. The awkwardness in the air was palpable as the waiter reluctantly returned the coin and hurried back to the reception.

The people around them shut their mouths when they pay for the restaurant's services with purple coins. They didn't seem aware he had many coins to spare after selling a lot of 'failed' junk to the Black Merchant Market. The manager and staff even thanked them for paying more than they ate. Even the guard who stopped them before lowers his head in shame.

"I suppose purple coins hold significant value in this realm," Yun Che mused, remembering that purple coins were considered a reliable currency alongside gold and silver in the cultivation world. However, even in their world, a single purple coin represented considerable wealth.

As their food began to arrive, the sight of their plates stacking up surprised the entire restaurant. Lin Xin and Xueli could only manage a maximum of three plates before feeling full, whereas the four of them seemed capable of devouring the restaurant's entire stock in mere minutes. The manager had to summon more staff to serve their table. In appreciation of their efforts, Yun Che tossed a purple coin as a tip, leaving the manager astounded.

Cang Yue noticed something intriguing – her Nezuko form could consume as much food as Yun Che, Mio, and Retsu, but in her original form, she could only eat a few plates at a time. The transformation had given her the ability to indulge without gaining weight, much like Mio and Retsu's mysterious bodies. It was a dream come true for any woman.

"Thank you for the meal," they all chimed in together. Yun Che, however, noticed that Xueli appeared somewhat reserved. Although she had finished her meal, she seemed as though she had forced it down.

"What's wrong, Xueli? Did you not like the food?" Yun Che inquired, concerned.

"No... Xueli is grateful, and Mama taught me never to refuse food given to us. But Onii-chan and Onee-chans' cooking is much better. Even Mama's fried rice is superior," Xueli replied sincerely.

"My, what a charmer you are," Cang Yue cooed as she patted Xueli's head, earning a delighted response.

"It seems the food here is expensive but not necessarily good," Mio remarked, a sentiment shared by Yun Che. Despite the apparent extravagance, it seemed that the dishes were all about presentation and lacked true flavor.

"Well, Mio-chan, we'll appreciate whatever we can get," Retsu said with gratitude in her voice, expressing her contentment with the meal.

Yun Che suddenly had an idea, one that could help Lin Xin establish her livelihood. "Xin'er... have you ever considered opening your own restaurant?"

Yun Che's idea to help Lin Xin open her own restaurant ignited a spark of hope in her. "My own restaurant?" Lin Xin pondered, her hesitation stemming from her uncertainty. She desired to open a restaurant, but her limited culinary knowledge and her lack of trust in the people of this city had held her back. She had learned a lot from Retsu and Mio, but she wasn't confident in her ability to turn it into a livelihood. Additionally, she realized that she needed more than just herself and Xueli to make her dream a reality, and the thought of trusting others in this city made her apprehensive.

"You're in a similar position to what Cang Yue was in before," Yun Che reassured her. "Don't worry. We'll teach you recipes from our world, ones that can transform inexpensive ingredients into gourmet dishes. These dishes will be a hundred times better than anything we've had here, and incredibly delicious."

The mention of dishes being "a hundred times better" caught everyone's attention, particularly Mio and Retsu, who were already accomplished chefs and had never encountered the concept of gourmet food.

"Do you really think you can do that?" Lin Xin asked, her eyes wide with astonishment.

Yun Che recognized the curious gazes and decided to feed their culinary curiosity further. "Absolutely. I guess I've never introduced you girls to the world of gourmet food."

"Danna-sama... Yuu-kun... Yun Che... please teach us how to make gourmet food!" All of his girls exclaimed, their enthusiasm evident. While Yun Che had taught them essential recipes, enough to make them top-tier chefs, he had never introduced them to gourmet recipes. When they set their minds on something, they would go to great lengths to learn it.

"I'd like to learn as well, if you don't mind," Lin Xin added with a shy smile.

"Xueli can help her mama as a waitress," Yun Che suggested, rubbing Xueli's head affectionately, to which she responded with a cheerful nod.

"A cute little waitress," Lin Xin giggled, enjoying her daughter's excitement. The prospect of learning gourmet cooking and opening her own restaurant filled Lin Xin with newfound hope and determination.

-------------------

The restaurant's opulent atmosphere was pierced by a cold, menacing voice. "You dare show your face in this city?" Lin Xin and Xueli tensed immediately, instinctively moving behind Yun Che for protection. Emerging from the shadows was the familiar, chilling figure of Huan Ling, the formidable matriarch of the Huan Family.

Yun Che sighed as he shielded Lin Xin and Xueli with Mio and Retsu standing beside him, ready to defend if necessary. "We come and go as we please. You don't own this city."

"The Huan Family owns everything in this city, including your very lives. You dare show yourselves in our territory? Well, it saves me the trouble of hunting you down," Huan Ling declared, her words drawing the attention of onlookers. Yun Che's attempt to keep a low profile seemed to have failed.

"Have these people offended the Huan Family? It seems this restaurant might be their last stop. It's almost an honor to die after dining here," one spectator remarked.

"You humiliated me the other day, and now you won't leave here with your head intact," Huan Ling continued, snapping her fingers as her men closed in around them, cutting off their escape route. Despite the intimidating situation, Yun Che and his girls wore bored expressions, refusing to be cowed. Lin Xin and Xueli clung to Yun Che as if he were their protector.

"Now, hand over those two, and we might consider sparing your lives. I'm sure my men here would love to have your women as slaves once I'm done with them," Huan Ling taunted, her words causing the surrounding people to smirk. No one in the vicinity wanted to defend Yun Che and his group, especially against the Huan Family. Making enemies of the Huan Family was equivalent to making enemies of everyone.

Retsu and Mio's auras flared slightly as their anger grew, and they exchanged glances. It was clear they were ready to unleash their powers, but Yun Che raised his arm, signaling them to stand down. He looked at them with a knowing expression, conveying that he had a plan. Mio and Retsu then turned their attention to comforting Lin Xin, who was trembling, while Xueli clung to Cang Yue's Nezuko, her fear evident.

"Look, I'll ask you one more time. Could you kindly let us through? You're scaring both mother and child. I won't cause trouble for you for now. Don't force me to," Yun Che said with a stern expression, his Sharingan beginning to activate.

"You clearly don't understand who's in control here," Huan Ling retorted, confident in her preparations. She had her men in armor surround them, weapons drawn. Yun Che surveyed the area and saw that the old woman had positioned crossbowmen on higher floors to eliminate them if they made any hostile moves. Some of her men even eyed Yun Che's women and Lin Xin with a disturbing lust.

Taking a deep breath, Yun Che began to mark his targets. "I do understand, and I'm giving you one last chance to back off."

"You still think you're tough, boy? Last time, you caught my men off guard. This time, they're prepared," Huan Ling sneered.

"As I said, we promised Lin Xin that we wouldn't raise our hands for her daughter," Yun Che stated, his expression bored.

"Arrogant little bastard... just surrender quietly," the men around Huan Ling began to move closer, ready to capture or kill them.

Yun Che turned to Lin Xin and spoke softly, "Xin'er, it seems they believe they own this place."

"Everyone here is in league with her. They all hate me for taking her son away. Don't worry, Yun Che. I'll go with her, and you can escape with Xueli. Even if she tortures me, I know that you, Xueli, and the others will be safe," Lin Xin said as she started to walk towards Huan Ling. Yun Che raised his hand to stop her, a determined look in his eyes.

"Yun Che..." Lin Xin's eyes widened as she gazed at him, a mixture of surprise and curiosity in her expression.

"I told you… if they even touch a strand of your or Xueli's hair, we'll bury them," Yun Che replied with a reassuring smile.

Lin Xin blushed at his words and redirected her focus to their current situation. "But... there are too many of them."

"Just trust me," Yun Che replied confidently. Then, his eyes began to transition into Sharingan, a power from his world that was beyond their understanding. Lin Xin immediately closed her eyes as waves of energy emanated from him, causing powerful wind blasts that sent everything nearby flying.

The men surrounding them, including the shooters on higher ground, were knocked unconscious and fell to the ground, their eyes turned white. Even the innocent bystanders, the restaurant staff, and, most importantly, Huan Ling herself were not spared.

Huan Ling, the old matriarch, collapsed to her knees, trembling with fear. The restaurant's patrons and staff were left in stunned silence, unable to comprehend what had just occurred. The intense energy wave had been followed by a burst of wind, causing everyone around Yun Che's group to fall unconscious.

Lin Xin cautiously opened her eyes and was astounded by what she saw. Every man who had attempted to capture them now lay unconscious on the floor. Only the old matriarch remained, wide-eyed with fear.

With her eyes still wide, she turned to Yun Che. "Did you... do something?"

"That was Haki. Supreme King's Haki," Yun Che replied confidently.

"Haki?" Lin Xin was puzzled. She had felt a powerful surge of wind from him, and it had instantly incapacitated all the men who approached them.

"You... What did you do? Sorcery! Witchcraft!" Huan Ling shouted towards them in a mixture of fear and anger.

"I'm not dealing with this," Yun Che muttered under his breath. Without wasting any more time, he scooped Lin Xin into a bridal carry, taking her by surprise. Mio did the same with Xueli, and Retsu held Cang Yue's Nezuko form protectively.

"Sekienton (Red Smoke Escape)!" A thick red smoke enveloped the area, obscuring their vision. At the same time, the sound of shattering glass echoed from above as the massive ceiling of the restaurant crumbled into pieces, raining shards of glass down upon the patrons. Panic and screams filled the air as people scattered to avoid the falling debris. Huan Ling gritted her teeth in frustration as she watched Yun Che's group escape under the cover of the smoke. She had no choice but to let them go, as most of her men had succumbed to the strange power wielded by the man.

High above the city, Yun Che carried Lin Xin in his arms as he flew out of the restaurant, followed by Retsu and Mio. Lin Xin opened her eyes in astonishment. They were soaring high above the city, and she couldn't believe the breathtaking view before her. It was her first time experiencing the sensation of flying so high above the clouds. While Mio and Retsu had carried her from the bottom of the basin to the city before, the view now was incomparable. Even the central floating island above the city looked majestic. It was a sight beyond her wildest dreams.

"Mama, it's beautiful!" Xueli exclaimed enthusiastically from Mio's arms, momentarily forgetting the harrowing experience they had just been through.

"Isn't it?" Lin Xin turned her gaze towards Yun Che, her heart skipping a beat. She had never seen him like this before, and he looked rather dashing as he smiled while carrying her in a bridal fashion. Her cheeks flushed red as she looked out into the distance, where they could see the entire world from above. "Indeed, it is..."

The feeling of flying was incredible, and Lin Xin couldn't help but envy the cultivators who could do it effortlessly. If her newfound potential as a cultivator indeed allowed her to fly, she didn't mind not learning how to as long as she could remain in Yun Che's arms.

Lin Xin glanced at her daughter, who was happily enjoying the moment with Mio, Retsu, and Cang Yue. She felt a warm sense of contentment as her small family was with her, protecting and reassuring her and Xueli that they had nothing to fear as long as they were together.

Lin Xin's eyes brimmed with gratitude as she spoke softly, her words carrying a heartfelt tone. "Yun Che, Retsu, Mio, Cang Yue... I can't thank you enough for saving us time and time again."

"You're welcome, Xin'er. You and Xueli are our family," Yun Che replied with a smile. Lin Xin and the others mirrored his expression as they gazed at the new floating island in the distance. Their objective in this realm was complete, and now they had to figure out how to deal with Lin Xin's mother-in-law.

Other than considering the option of killing her.

----------------------------------------------------

That night, the city was in an uproar. The mysterious ascent of the central island into the sky had captured the curiosity of everyone in the city. The island now shone like a second moon, illuminating the night sky with its brilliance, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

Yun Che sat by a tranquil small lake within the manor, his gaze fixed upon the glowing island above. The events of the day had left a significant impact. The city lord and Old Fan had urged the people in the sanctuary to keep their involvement a secret, realizing they owed Yun Che and his group an immense debt of gratitude for bringing their creator back. Moreover, they had also apologized for their earlier attempt to coerce Lin Xin into becoming their errand girl, which had been against her wishes. Although the offer had been made to protect her and Xueli from her formidable mother-in-law, Lin Xin had firmly refused. Xueli, too, had expressed her desire to revisit the island to pay her respects at Xuyi's grave, a sentiment shared by both Cang Yue and Lin Xin, who had a personal connection to the deceased.

In Cang Yue's case, her connection was primarily through Yuyun. Interestingly, Xuyi had granted access to Lin Xin and Xueli to her tomb on the central island, but not to Yun Che. He made a mental note to allow Xueli to cultivate there once she was ready.

Two familiar voices interrupted his thoughts. "Danna-sama... Yuu-kun..."

He turned to see Retsu and Mio, his cherished companions, approaching him. "Ahh, it's you two... Where's little Yue?" He scanned the surroundings, searching for Cang Yue.

"Little Yue is currently in hibernation, taking in the moonlight on the manor's top floor. She mentioned wanting to console Yuyun, who was seen crying after witnessing her master's body. She might remain dormant for the night," Retsu explained.

Yun Che nodded in understanding. "I forgot that tonight is the full moon. Tomorrow, she might experience another age progression in her current body."

Retsu and Mio exchanged a glance before hugging him tightly and resting their heads on his chest. It had become a nightly ritual, but Yun Che sensed that they had something on their minds. He pressed a loving kiss to their foreheads before inquiring, "What's troubling you two?"

"Yuu-kun... are you truly okay with letting those people go after what they said earlier today?" Retsu asked, recalling the insults they had endured in the restaurant.

Yun Che furrowed his brows momentarily, then reassured them with an even tighter embrace. "Don't worry... They won't pose any threat to us... They're just ordinary humans."

"But..." Mio hesitated in her response, but she also held her worries at bay. There was indeed something peculiar about those four young masters from earlier. Yun Che had a point; they had an uncanny aura about them, which was likely why they had gotten under their skin. Normally, they wouldn't bother with weaklings, especially ordinary humans, but these individuals were different.

They reeked of malevolence, and that was something they couldn't easily dismiss.

Seeing their concern, Yun Che leaned down to give them another affectionate kiss on their foreheads before sighing. He couldn't help but be touched by their genuine care for him, even if the insults had been directed at him. "Alright... I understand your worries. Just promise me not to go overboard. Come back by midnight, and I won't have to resort to spanking as punishment."

Retsu pouted in response to his teasing. "You meanie, Yuu-kun..."

Mio, on the other hand, flashed a mischievous smile. "But... I wouldn't mind if you decide to give me that 'punishment,' Dan~na-sa~ma~..."

Her suggestive tone sent a shiver down his spine, and he bonked her head gently with his hand. "You're impossible, Mio."

"Hai... hai... Go ahead then. Come back when you're finished," Yun Che granted his two girls his blessings and permission.

"Haiiiii..." Retsu acknowledged with a nod, and Mio followed suit. With his consent, they each gave him a peck on the cheek before disappearing in a blink of an eye. They had a specific target in mind, but they wouldn't hesitate to involve others if necessary. However, they had vowed not to go overboard this time.

After they departed, Xueli approached Yun Che, her curiosity piqued by the sudden departure of her Onee-chans. "Onii-chan, where did Mio and Retsu nee-chan go?"

"Oh, they went to deal with some pests. Don't worry, they'll be back soon," Yun Che reassured her, patting Xueli's head.

"Pests? Where are they?" Xueli asked, her eyes darting around nervously as if searching for the pests.

Yun Che chuckled softly. "Hahaha, don't worry, Xueli. Let's go join your mother for dinner. I suddenly got quite hungry." He led Xueli back to the manor, aware that Mio and Retsu's targets would soon experience a rather eventful evening. Once his two girls had chosen their prey, showing mercy might be an unlikely option.

--------------------------------------------

Mio and Retsu had sensed something was amiss during their visit to the high-society market a few hours ago. Retsu, in particular, felt a sense of unease, as if someone was watching them. She extended her haki and quickly identified the source.

"Yuu-kun, can I excuse myself for a moment? I need to take care of something," Retsu said, glancing around as if searching for an unseen presence.

Yun Che sensed the tension and decided to let her handle the situation.

There was a hooded figure observing them from a distance, tucked away in a corner of a building. The figure appeared fidgety, torn between the desire to approach them and the fear that seemed to hold it back. Despite the figure's shabby appearance, it was evident that they were not tailing someone without a reason. Just as Yun Che's group, along with Lin Xin and Xueli, disappeared into the bustling crowd, the hooded figure followed suit. Once they reached a secluded alley, the figure turned around.

"Um... I don't feel comfortable being watched," the figure nervously admitted. However, as they turned, they were met with a smiling woman who had suddenly appeared behind them. The figure stumbled backward, falling to the ground. The woman towered over them, her demeanor anything but friendly.

"Care to explain why you were stalking us?" the woman inquired with a sinister smile, causing the hooded figure to shiver with fear. Yet, despite the intimidation, the woman didn't exude any killing intent, which gave the figure a momentary sense of relief.

The hooded figure slowly removed their hood, revealing a middle-aged woman with tattered clothing and a weary, haggard appearance. Time had clearly taken its toll on her, transforming her from a once-beautiful person into someone who had endured suffering and hardship.

"Please forgive me; I didn't mean to stalk you. I've been following you since you defeated those detestable guards at the inner zone's gate. I even witnessed your confrontation with those vile young masters. I have a request... Please hear me out," the woman pleaded as she kneeled before them.

Retsu wasn't sure if she was willing to grant the woman's request, but she saw no harm in listening. "Go on."

The woman continued, her voice filled with desperation, "I implore you to seek justice for me... against those people." She made it clear she was referring to the reprehensible young masters and their mistress who had provoked them back at the temple's outskirts.

"I'm sorry, I..." Retsu was about to decline the woman's request, but then the woman suddenly collapsed to her knees, coughing violently. Retsu couldn't help but scan the woman and discovered that she was suffering from a terminal illness. She had been enduring this ailment while choosing to ignore it in her desperation.

"Please... please..." the woman pleaded with tears in her eyes, "My daughter was murdered by one of those young masters your group defeated. I tried confronting them about it, but they just laughed at me. No one dared to go against them. I tried to do it myself, but their guards beat me black and blue. My husband also tried to seek justice, but he died at their hands." The woman's voice quivered with unbearable sadness, and Retsu could see the bruises on her face and body, which she had endured in her quest for justice. As a doctor, Retsu knew the woman was keeping her injuries to herself, refusing treatment despite her obvious suffering.

Then, the woman retrieved a money bag from her robe, revealing a mix of bronze and silver coins. It was evident that she had saved diligently to gather enough funds to seek justice for her daughter. She had likely even considered resorting to desperate measures, such as selling her body, just to raise the necessary money.

"Please... please... Just take everything," the woman implored, tears streaming down her face. "If you are the kind of person who does this for money, then take it. It is all I have..."

Retsu remained silent for a moment, her heart heavy with the woman's tragic story. She then lowered herself toward the money bag and took the smallest coin she could find—a humble bronze coin. With a gentle smile, she returned the bag to the weeping mother.

The woman looked at Retsu with confusion in her eyes. "Is it not enough?" she asked.

Retsu held up the small bronze coin and said, "This coin is all I need."

With that, Retsu vanished from the alley, leaving the woman behind, still weeping. The ragged middle-aged woman, now alone, suddenly wore a small smile as she dragged her frail body to a specific location, where she would patiently await justice.

Retsu reappeared next to Mio, nodding in confirmation. Tonight, they would deliver judgment upon the despicable young masters and mistress who had crossed their path.

------------------------------------------

In the inner sanctum of the city, an eerie calm settled over the inhabitants, oblivious to the storm brewing for those who had crossed paths with Yun Che's family earlier that day. Inside a luxurious restaurant, a clandestine gathering took place around a circular table, where several individuals bore fresh bruises and resentment, courtesy of their encounter with Yun Che.

"Damn it! If only I could lay my hands on him," one of them seethed, frustration gnawing at his words.

"Hmph... You think it's possible? He made mincemeat of our guards without breaking a sweat. He wields mysterious powers. How do you intend to take him down?" another scoffed, doubt evident in his tone.

"He's just a commoner! And he dared to trample upon our pride like that? Tomorrow, I'll rally all my guards to confront him," a third declared with a fiery determination.

"Our guards were more formidable than the regular ones, and they were crushed effortlessly. What makes you believe that adding more will make a difference?" questioned the peculiar young master.

"Hmph, with a larger force, we can bring him to justice tomorrow... and then, I'll make those women his slaves," chimed in his companion.

"I'll offer my guards too, but in exchange, you must deliver that mother and her child to me. I'll mold them into obedient playthings," insisted the odd young master.

"And I'll contribute mine as well. I've been sleepless ever since that lady with the butterfly clip entered the picture. I yearn to break her spirit," added his friend, a sinister glint in his eyes.

"Hmph. Beat him mercilessly, cripple his legs, but ensure he stays alive. I have a taste for his company," leered the fat young mistress with an unsettling lust.

"Tomorrow, we'll storm their residence, drag him out in humiliation, and make an example out of him. No one defies the nobility within the inner city and gets away with it. I shall be the one to maim him and subject his women to unspeakable horrors, all before his very eyes. I wish to see him beg for death," their leader declared with cruel determination.

Unbeknownst to them, a pair of shadows with crimson eyes watched from above, their silent presence foretelling impending doom. The arrogant tormentors had no inkling of the vengeful forces aligning against them.

------------------------------

As the clandestine gathering concluded, the young masters and the licentious mistress dispersed, each deeply engrossed in their wicked schemes. Among them, one young master, inebriated and barely able to maintain his balance, was guided by his loyal guard.

"Hehe... If only I could get my hands on him... I'd personally beat him to a pulp... and I wouldn't hesitate to end his miserable life," he slurred, an unsettling grin etched upon his face. Oblivious to the sinister forces lurking in the shadows, he staggered onward, his mind consumed by thoughts of revenge.

As he meandered through the darkened alleyways, swaying with each step, he suddenly felt an unexplainable chill in the air. A disconcerting sensation washed over him, and he realized that he was now alone. His faithful guard, who had been at his side moments ago, had vanished into thin air.

"What... the hell..." He mumbled, his speech slurred from the intoxication. Frantically, he turned around to search for his missing guard but found no trace of him. Panic set in as he ventured further into the gloom, calling out, "Where are you?!"

However, his calls went unanswered, and the eerie silence of the night seemed to envelop him. Desperation clawed at his heart, and just as he was about to give in to fear, he caught sight of something peculiar—an odd, lingering coldness in the air.

With a shiver racing down his spine, he quickened his pace, staggering unevenly. He muttered to himself, "Hehe... If I could get my hands on him... I'll beat him up personally... forget about letting him live... I'll just say I accidentally killed him."

As he stumbled forward, his legs gave way beneath him, and he collapsed to the ground. In his intoxicated haze, he realized that something was tightly coiled around his limbs, preventing him from escaping.

"Young master... you can barely walk straight... shall I support you until we return?" his personal guard had offered moments ago.

"Piss off... I can walk..." He had retorted, but now he wished he had accepted the help. The oppressive chill in the air grew colder, and he sensed an eerie presence drawing near. He spun around, only to find himself alone in the desolate alley.

"Wha... what's going on?" he stammered, his breath quickening. Panic surged as he attempted to locate his guard, but to his horror, he discovered his loyal protector ensnared in a peculiar black cocoon spun from shadowy threads.

His voice trembled as he tried to convey a warning, "Yo...ung... mas...ter… run..."

However, before he could utter another word, a figure, shrouded in darkness, materialized before him. Her beautiful visage belied the malevolent aura that surrounded her, and a sinister smile tugged at the corners of her lips.

The young master struggled to break free, but his attempts were futile as the inky-black strands, akin to spider silk, constricted around him. His cries for help were silenced as the web-like bonds tightened their grip, rendering him powerless.

Bound from head to toe in the obsidian cocoon, with only his eyes exposed, he found himself face-to-face with the woman adorned with the butterfly clip, her expression a disturbing blend of beauty and sadism. The realization that his life hung in the balance struck him like a bolt of lightning, and sheer terror coursed through his veins.

The woman, her gaze fixed upon her captive, said nothing, allowing the dreadful silence to linger. The ominous cocoon now enveloped him entirely, except for his eyes, which darted frantically in every direction.

As the final strands of the cocoon sealed his fate, he saw the woman's face, marred by a malevolent grin. Her words, chilling in their promise, sent shivers down his spine, "Retsu-chan was right. You reek of innocent blood. Don't worry... I won't kill you... yet... My husband says we shouldn't go overboard... ufufufufu."

With an eerie wave of her hand, she dragged the cocoon and its helpless occupant into the depths of the encroaching shadows. The young master's muffled screams and desperate struggles faded into the obscurity of the night, swallowed by an impending darkness from which there seemed to be no escape.

--------------------

The other two young masters, inebriated and heavily reliant on each other for support, wandered through the dimly lit streets of the inner zone. The late hour meant that the roads were deserted, and the absence of golden guards patrolling the internal area made them feel invulnerable.

"I can't wait to get my hands on them tomorrow... I'll turn those girls into dolls; they won't be able to resist me," one of them slurred, his speech slathered in intoxication.

"Hehe... I yearn to taste that mother... Ripe fruit is there for the taking," his comrade added, his drunken words oozing with lust.

Their bloodshot eyes suddenly locked onto a figure standing alone in the middle of the street. They were captivated by her mesmerizing beauty, but there was something familiar about her. Her braided hair resembled that of the woman they had encountered earlier in the day, and their previous humiliation still stung.

Driven by anger and sourness, they decided to pursue this woman, hoping to sate their lustful desires. As the woman noticed them following, she led them deeper into the labyrinthine streets. Drunk and consumed by their carnal desires, the young masters quickened their pace, with their personal guards trailing behind, oblivious to the danger that loomed.

The braided woman, seemingly an apparition of ethereal beauty, continued to lead them further into the heart of the inner zone. Her graceful stride conveyed an allure that they couldn't resist. Unbeknownst to them, they had been ensnared by a deadly trap.

Lost within their inebriation, the young masters ventured deeper into the inner city, their senses dulled by alcohol and desire. Finally, the woman halted beneath the gnarled branches of a colossal tree. This time, she stood her ground, her presence commanding attention.

Overwhelmed by their lust, the burly young master couldn't contain himself any longer. "Beautiful lady, are you toying with us? Join us, and we'll show you a night you'll never forget. We can offer you pleasures beyond your wildest dreams."

The braided woman stood before them, her radiance almost hypnotic, and smiled mysteriously. "Oh, but there is something I desire..."

"Name it, my lady. Whether it's gold, riches, attire, or happiness, we can provide more than you can imagine," one of the young masters eagerly offered.

"Do not listen to him. My offer will far surpass his," the other interjected.

With a playful grin, she responded, "There is but one thing I yearn for... your lives."

The atmosphere around them grew ominous, and a metallic tang tainted the air as the stench of blood began to emerge. A bloodied spectral skull materialized behind her, casting an eerie shadow upon the ground.

"Ufufufufufu..." she laughed sinisterly, her transformation into a vengeful entity nearing completion. Her eyes remained soft yet harbored a deep well of malice, unsettling to anyone who gazed upon her. In an instant, she extended her hand, and a luminous strip shot forth, binding the two young masters together and causing them to collapse.

Terrified beyond measure, the two screamed for help, their voices echoing through the empty streets. However, their cries fell on deaf ears, as the ominous presence surrounding them prevented anyone from coming to their aid.

"Help!!! Save us!!!" they shrieked with all the fervor they could muster, but their pleas went unanswered. The braided woman, their assailant, calmly raised her hand, and their bindings reappeared before her, suspending them in front of her.

"*Giggle.... No use in struggling... You should never have crossed paths with my husband this morning," she taunted, her voice carrying a chilling edge.

The two young masters, their eyes wide with terror, finally recognized her as the same woman they had attempted to seduce earlier. Desperation filled their voices as they pleaded for mercy. "You... you're the woman from this morning... please... please spare our lives... we won't do it again... we swear...."

A sinister smile played upon the braided woman's lips as she pulled on the luminous strap, suspending them helplessly in front of her. Her spectral bloodied arm emanated a gruesome aura as she approached them, her eyes soft but brimming with vengeance.

"Did you know, blood carries its own story?" she mused, her smile growing more sinister by the second. "Your scent is tainted with the blood of innocence... How many women and children have fallen victim to your lust? Dozens? Hundreds?"

The young masters were paralyzed with fear, trapped in a nightmarish encounter with the very woman they had wronged, and now, they had to answer for their vile deeds.

The braided woman's words and gaze bore into the two young masters like the relentless stare of a grim reaper. It was abundantly clear that there was no escaping the consequences of their vile actions. They attempted to plead or provide explanations, but their voices were abruptly silenced as the luminous binds constrained their mouths, induced by the woman's formidable haki. Helpless and overwhelmed, they succumbed to unconsciousness, their last thoughts tainted by the inescapable judgment they now faced.

With a deft motion, Retsu removed her spectral blood arm and dissipated the ominous skull that had hung in the air like a harbinger of doom. The atmosphere gradually returned to normal, but the eerie sensation of vengeance lingered.

"*Giggle.... I thought so..." Retsu's voice, now devoid of malice, held a certain satisfaction. She seized their immobilized forms and took to the skies with effortless grace, carrying her incapacitated prey toward an unknown destination. Her sinister smile remained intact, a chilling reminder of the justice she sought to deliver.

As she soared through the night, she couldn't help but muse internally. "Three down... one to go..." Her partner was likely concluding her mission as well, and they were one step closer to completing their retribution.

...........

Inside one of the luxurious manors nestled deep within the inner zone, an ominous aura hung heavy in the air. At its pinnacle, a towering pagoda served as a chamber of horrors where a ruthless young mistress indulged her darkest desires. Her victims, slaves chosen to satisfy her insatiable lust, had no escape from her cruel whims.

"Y-yes... right there... use that tongue of yours properly..."

The young man, barely able to muster a response, gasped as he tried to please his merciless mistress. The room reeked of debauchery, and the scene was nothing short of grotesque. Her commands were laced with cruelty, and her satisfaction seemed impossible to attain.

"Mistress... I can't endure this any longer..." the young man panted, clearly repulsed by her demands.

"You...!" The young mistress's rage surged, and with a savage kick, she struck the unfortunate man in the face, then brutally assaulted his crotch.

"ARGHH!!!"

She remained indifferent to his agonized screams, repeatedly stomping on him as if he were a mere bug. Her expression bore the mark of a sadistic tormentor, as if she had committed such atrocities countless times before. Blood splattered across the room as the poor man's life was extinguished.

Once she had sated her cruel desires, she carelessly tossed herself onto the bed, her overweight body dripping with the blood of her victim. A sinister smile graced her lips as she reveled in the debased satisfaction she had extracted.

In her twisted mind, Yun Che's image emerged, igniting a fiery desire within her. "That boy... I want him even more... I don't need these other toys when I have him... I'll ensure he pleases me every night. A commoner making me feel this way... I'll make him forget all those other wives of his. Beautiful? I am the pinnacle of beauty in this city... a top-tier enchantress."

Covering herself with a golden robe, she summoned her guards to dispose of the lifeless body of her most recent victim.

"Another one, mistress? This is the third this week," one of the guards remarked, his tone betraying a hint of indifference. He had witnessed countless young men meet their untimely end in her chamber, serving only to satisfy her lust. Her ruthlessness knew no bounds, and her temper was unpredictable.

"He failed to please me," she declared coldly, "and you dare to question my methods? Should I have you executed as well?"

Fear gripped the guard's heart as he hastily nodded. "No, mistress, I would never question your actions. I'll see to the disposal of this one."

"That's what I thought," she sneered, adjusting her robe with an air of arrogance. To her, enslaved individuals who could not meet her expectations were expendable, while those who managed to satisfy her desires were spared. Her guards regularly abducted handsome men from the outer city, ensuring a steady supply of potential toys. Missing persons reports became an everyday occurrence, and her whims remained unchecked.

"Men, fetch my usual meal," she ordered, but her words fell on deaf ears. She repeated herself, growing more frantic, but still, there was no response.

"WHERE ARE THOSE WRETCHES?" She flung open her chamber door, only to be greeted by an eerie silence. The guards who typically lined her hallway had vanished without a trace, as though the entire estate had been abandoned. Her fury knew no bounds, and she vowed to report this to her father.

But then she glanced upward, her heart plummeting as she saw her guards suspended mid-air, ensnared in grotesque cocoons. Panic overtook her, and she fell to the ground, her mind racing with thoughts of the macabre fate that had befallen her men. As the pungent stench of blood filled the air, she shrieked in terror, fleeing back into her chamber and locking the doors.

The young mistress's pleas fell on deaf ears as the two enigmatic women, Mio and Retsu, regarded her with a mix of disdain and pity. They had entered her chamber without detection, shattering her illusion of safety.

"Ara… you know there's no use crying for help. No one could hear you. Well, not anymore," Mio chided in a sweet tone, sipping her tea with an air of casual indifference.

The young mistress recognized them from the morning's encounter with Yun Che, her panic growing as she wondered how they had infiltrated her manor.

"You two... are you behind this?" she stammered, her voice trembling.

"*Giggle… If you think that we are here to save you, you're gravely mistaken," Retsu responded, her voice tinged with a sinister edge.

Taking in the squalor and debauchery that surrounded her, Mio couldn't help but shake her head in disgust. "But... it's a good thing this place is so secluded. Looks like no one will ever know that you've been having your slaves killed for failing to satisfy you. What kind of person takes pleasure in such cruelty?"

Desperation overcame the young mistress, and she fell to her knees, willing to offer anything to save herself. "Please... what do you want from me? I have money, a harem of young men, wealth beyond measure. I can give you anything you desire. Just spare me."

Mio's response was chillingly calm. "Don't worry. We didn't kill your guards, at least not yet. Perhaps they'll meet their end when they realize you're missing tomorrow. We're well aware of your kind's temperament."

With a snap of her fingers, Mio released the guards she had bound earlier, the thudding sounds outside the chamber door indicating their sudden freedom.

"As for your question," Retsu continued, casting three spider cocoons onto the floor with a simple wave of her hand, "it's the same thing we want from your wealthy companions." The faces encased within the cocoons belonged to the young mistress's three friends, the very ones who had provoked Mio and Retsu earlier that morning and planned to capture them tomorrow. Fear washed over the young mistress as she beheld her friends' trapped and horrified expressions.

"What do we want from you?" Mio's voice took on a chilling edge. "Simple... we want your life."

Terror coursed through the young mistress as she made a desperate dash for the door, only to find it entirely sealed by Mio's spider webs. Panic set in, and she screamed as loudly as her bound mouth would allow, her cries falling on deaf ears.

Retsu approached the trembling woman, her touch gentle yet filled with an eerie calmness. "*Giggle… When you provoked our husband this morning, your fate was sealed. But fear not, we won't resort to gruesome methods like ripping your spine apart or causing your internal organs to explode. We have something much more fitting in store for all of you."

Retsu's words were haunting, and her smile held a sinister promise. "*Giggle… As Retsu-chan said, you all reek of innocent blood. The four of you took pleasure in having your toys killed after using them. How many poor boys met their end to satisfy your twisted desires? How many married women, young girls, and innocent children have died because of you four? Yet, no one dared to challenge you… until now. I believe that delivering justice to all of you will be a reward for those who have lost their loved ones."

With a wave of her hand, Mio enacted her plan. In an instant, the four of them, along with Mio and Retsu, vanished from the young mistress's chamber, leaving behind nothing but the lingering scent of blood and the heavy weight of justice served.

........

As the giant spiders slowly closed in on their helpless victims, panic and terror took hold of the four individuals trapped in the center of the web.

"Let me go!!! My family won't let you go for treating me like this," one of them pleaded desperately.

"I swear… I'll kill all of you!!!" another shouted with a trembling voice.

"Please… tell me what you want.... My family will prepare whatever you ask for.... just please… let me go…." The third one begged.

The fourth, the once-arrogant fat young mistress, was now reduced to tears, sobbing and whimpering as her fears consumed her.

The braided woman on the branch observed them coldly. "Or else what? No one will find you here. As for your question... Nothing... We won't do anything to you...."

Confusion mixed with their fear, and they exchanged uneasy glances. They couldn't comprehend what was happening, why they were here, and what these women intended to do with them.

Mio turned to her companion, a wicked smile playing on her lips. "Mio-chan..."

A snap of her fingers sent shivers down their spines. Suddenly, the area was teeming with giant spiders, each one nearly the size of a man. Their monstrous forms and the unnatural circumstances filled the air with an overwhelming sense of dread. The four captives watched in horror as the colossal arachnids slowly advanced toward them.

"You see, my kins here have never tasted human flesh before," Mio explained, her voice dripping with sadistic glee. "We've decided to offer you as their first delicacy. Consider it redemption for all the tormented souls you've murdered."

Terror-filled screams erupted from the captives, but they were powerless, bound tightly by the spider webs. Giant spiders closed in, and the night was filled with their agonizing cries.

"Who are you two?! Why are you doing this?!" the fat woman wailed in desperation.

"Anyone who threatens our husband will face our wrath," Retsu replied coldly. "He might spare your lowly lives, but we won't. Think of it as an honor to die by the hands, or should I say legs, of these spiders."

Mio continued, "Moreover, for mass murderers like you... I think being consumed by my kins is a merciful end."

As the spiders began their gruesome feast, Mio and Retsu took their leave, flying into the night sky. The screams faded into silence, leaving only the moon as a silent witness to the gruesome end that befell the wicked.

"It's mercy enough for them," Mio remarked as they departed.

"Yes, Mio-chan... Let's return. Yuu-kun must be worried about us," Retsu agreed.

With that, they soared away, their hearts at ease, knowing that justice had been served. for those who died by their hands. However, they still had one final stop to make.

------------------------------------------

"It is done," Retsu and Mio announced, appearing beside the woman who had suffered so much. She sat before makeshift graves, ragged clothing covering her frail form. The graves were a solemn testament to the family she had lost.

The woman smiled, her eyes filled with gratitude and tears as she clasped her hands together, praying for her departed husband and daughter.

"My daughter... My husband... Please rest in peace. Your mother has sought justice for you." A violent fit of coughing overtook her, and Retsu and Mio rushed to support her. Retsu was prepared to use her healing abilities, but the woman stopped her, her smile never wavering.

"Please... Let me join them. I've been waiting for this moment for a long time. Please..." Her request was clear, and Retsu nodded, reluctantly disabling her healing powers. Even with the ability to save lives, they respected the mother's wish to be reunited with her loved ones in the afterlife.

With a final smile, she turned to Retsu, her words filled with sincerity. "Your husband is lucky to have you."

"Our husband..." Retsu gently corrected her, and Mio joined in the sentiment. The woman, with tears in her eyes, smiled at Mio as well.

"I see... Please cherish him as I failed to save mine. And if you have children in the future, cherish them as well." The woman smiles beautifully at them.

With that, she passed away peacefully, her soul departing from her body. Retsu, as a Shinigami, severed her soul chain, releasing her from the bonds of the living world.

The chains that had tethered her were gone.

As her soul departed, it was met by two others waiting at her daughter's makeshift grave: the soul of a young girl and that of a middle-aged man. The woman's face lit up with pure joy as she embraced them. Retsu and Mio, standing nearby, couldn't help but smile as well.

It was a heartwarming reunion in the afterlife, a moment of profound beauty.

The family of souls turned towards Retsu one last time, their expressions radiating peace, before gradually fading away from the mortal realm. As they disappeared, leaving behind a smiling Retsu and Mio, the two women knew they had done right by this grieving mother.

To honor her wish, they buried her beside her daughter's makeshift grave and offered a silent prayer. Then, their thoughts turned to Lin Xin and Xueli.

Retsu placed a bronze coin on top of the grave, a symbol of fulfilling the mother's heartfelt wish.

In their hearts, they silently vowed to protect Lin Xin and Xueli, ensuring that they would never suffer the same fate as the woman they had just laid to rest.

----------------------

"So, is it done?" Yun Che waited patiently by the tranquil lake, the moon's reflection rippling on its surface. He had allowed Retsu and Mio to carry out their mission tonight without interference, trusting their judgment.

"Hnnn…" Retsu and Mio nodded in response, their expressions still somber as they gazed downward. Yun Che smiled warmly and approached, embracing both of his fiancées in a tender, comforting hug. With gentle strokes, he patted their heads simultaneously, holding them close.

"There... There…" Retsu's voice quivered as she found herself shedding tears in the embrace. The memory of the woman's suffering weighed heavily on her heart. Though they had never met this woman before, the sense of justice that had driven her vengeance was undeniable. Now, at long last, she could find the peace she deserved.

In the quiet of that night, having witnessed so much suffering and death, something profound had been stirred within them. "Yuu-kun, we've made a promise to protect our little family for as long as we live," Retsu whispered, her voice filled with a newfound determination.

Yun Che nodded with sincerity. "And I am here to fulfill that promise. I vow to protect you both and our future family with all that I am." He tightened his embrace around Mio and Retsu, his love and support unwavering. Whatever experiences they had gone through that night, he knew that he could stand by their side, helping them heal and find solace in each other's arms.