Chapter 66: Rather Than Being Humiliated, It's Better to Take Control (4)
Su Qing slowly revealed the true purpose behind the Heavenly Dao Master's plan.
The sect had been operating under a dual strategy in the capital.
On the surface, they had used Su Qing to gather intelligence and draw attention.
But in reality, all of this was merely groundwork for the assassination of the Empress.
In other words, regardless of whether the goddess succeeded or failed, the sect's goal would still be achieved.
Ye Xueyi had sacrificed so much, yet she was ultimately dispensable.
She finally grasped this harsh truth.
Her once-flushed face turned deathly pale.
If she hadn't seen this with her own eyes, she wouldn't have believed it.
The sect she had revered, her master whom she had idolized—how could they be capable of such things?
More than anything, she was devastated that her master was willing to gamble the lives of hundreds of disciples.
Ye Xueyi's lifelong ideals and beliefs wavered.
She had always aspired to be like her master, dreaming of one day achieving his greatness.
But now, she realized she was nothing but a pitiful fool who had been deceived all along.
The other side of her master—she had only now begun to understand it.
Why? Why had he made such a choice?
Her face twisted with sorrow, looking utterly pitiful.
But her grief didn't last long before she was abruptly interrupted.
"Madam, you look as if you've lost all hope."
"Why not live for me instead? Given our relationship, you know I wouldn't deceive you."
Su Qing smirked as he pinched her cheek, his voice oddly sincere.
He had no qualms about stealing what wasn't his.
Besides, this wasn't just about luring her away from her sect.
If she agreed, it would be abandoning darkness for the light—an act of righteousness.
"That's impossible!"
Ye Xueyi snapped back to reality, her voice firm.
She was undeniably disillusioned with her master.
But disappointment was one thing—she wouldn't allow it to push her into despair.
She had her own responsibilities, her own mission.
Her master's orders had placed the entire sect in danger. She couldn't ignore that.
She had to do everything in her power to protect her fellow disciples.
"How disappointing."
Su Qing clicked his tongue.
Though he said that, there was little genuine disappointment on his face.
The room fell into silence.
The young man continued to enjoy the goddess's submissive presence, giving her time to process everything.
"I want to negotiate a new partnership on behalf of the Heavenly Dao Sect."
As she slowly calmed down, Ye Xueyi suddenly spoke.
"A partnership? That would require you to be my equal. I don't think you're qualified."
Su Qing chuckled playfully.
"I am the successor to the Heavenly Dao Master. Among the disciples, I hold significant influence."
Her voice carried a trace of pride.
For as long as she could remember, she had taken pride in that identity.
"Oh? And what can you offer to make this deal worthwhile?"
Su Qing asked with amusement.
"As the future sect master, I can pledge my absolute loyalty to you. Isn't that enough?"
Ye Xueyi hesitated briefly before answering.
"It's an interesting offer, but it doesn't quite convince me."
"Right now, someone intends to harm the Empress. Wouldn't it be easier to simply eliminate them all?"
"That would be the most efficient solution, wouldn't you agree?"
Su Qing stroked his chin as if considering his own reasoning.
"Once I take over as the Heavenly Dao Master, I can order the sect to assist you."
Ye Xueyi hurriedly added.
She was doing her best to persuade him, but she didn't have much leverage.
After all, she was promising something in the future—nothing that held weight in the present.
Su Qing merely shook his head, not bothering to respond.
Ye Xueyi's eyes turned red with urgency. She was on the verge of tears.
If he decided to act against the sect, countless disciples would perish.
That future terrified her.
"Alright, alright. No need to look so pitiful."
"I do have a soft spot for beauty, after all."
"An assassination attempt isn't a crime unless it succeeds. I might consider letting your sect go."
Su Qing finally relented, his tone shifting.
"You… you're just a lecherous villain. I pity your Empress."
Ye Xueyi stammered, trying to hide the warmth blossoming in her chest.
She knew Su Qing wasn't someone easily swayed.
Had he… compromised for her sake?
Her heart fluttered at the thought, though she refused to show it.
"You make a good point. Should we just cancel the deal, then?"
Su Qing mused playfully.
"I—I was just speaking without thinking! I take it back!"
Ye Xueyi panicked, immediately relenting.
Afraid he might change his mind, she clutched his hand tightly, gently swaying it.
Her beautiful face was the very picture of delicate vulnerability.
The once-proud goddess had completely shed her aloof exterior in his presence.
This sight alone filled the room with satisfaction.
She knew what working with him entailed—it meant surrendering herself to him.
But at least, through this, she could act on her own will.
She no longer wanted to be anyone's puppet—she wanted to do what she truly desired.
Unbeknownst to her, she had already started down a darker path.
Not long ago, she had been stubborn and self-righteous.
Now, she had already changed significantly.
"Hmm…"
Su Qing appeared to be contemplating something.
Ye Xueyi grew anxious.
She hadn't expected her prideful words to put her in such a precarious position.
If he truly refused to spare the Heavenly Dao Sect…
The consequences would be disastrous.
She had to stop him.
"My lord, let's seal our pact now."
Without warning, the goddess pushed Su Qing down onto the plush carpet.
Her eyes burned with a fierce determination.
No matter what happened, her future was now tied to this man.
If that was the case… she would rather take control than be humiliated.
"What are you doing? Do we really need to do this just to sign a contract?"
Su Qing asked, stunned.
"I understand. I know exactly what you want."
Ye Xueyi straddled him, her voice filled with conviction.
Her flushed face bore an unmistakable allure.
"Ah?"