Journey to the West: Demon Emperor: Beginning as a Little Toad

Chapter 545 Visiting the Monkey King at Qitian Mansion

In the vast and boundless heavens, there is a wondrous mountain called "Mirror Sea Mountain".

Mirror Sea Mountain lies quietly beside the Milky Way.

This mountain is mysterious and extraordinary, fully demonstrating the wonders of nature.

Above the river, the real mountains stand majestically, like a giant dragon raising its head, about to break through the sky; while underwater, a peak is reflected in the water, perfectly clear and ethereal.

The two are interdependent, representing both reality and illusion.

Both on mountain peaks and underwater, it is possible to live there.

Just like two sides of a mirror, it is named "Mirror Sea Mountain".

At the summit, a three-courtyard siheyuan stands proudly, with its red walls, black tiles, flying eaves, and brackets, exuding a simple and elegant charm.

This is Xiao Chen's new residence in the Heavenly Realm.

Xiao Chen currently holds two positions in the Heavenly Realm.

Firstly, he was appointed as a seventh-rank Heavenly Patrol Captain, responsible for patrolling the heavens to protect the peace of the celestial realm; secondly, he was appointed as a seventh-rank Jade Pool Master of Ceremonies and Poetry Envoy, in charge of the rituals of the Jade Pool and composing odes for the Jade Pool banquets.

In the celestial realm, there is a strict hierarchy, and the regulations governing one's residence are a symbol of status.

With his dual identity, Xiao Chen's residence was comparable in scale to that of an ordinary sixth-rank celestial official.

Therefore, he was able to enjoy a secluded little hilltop in the celestial realm, complete with an independent courtyard, living a carefree and leisurely life.

As Yang Guoshan's cousin, Yang Long (actually Princess Wansheng) living here with Xiao Chen is not inappropriate.

Xiao Chen then dispatched two personal guards, namely Huang Feng Dasheng and another heavenly soldier, to reside in the outer courtyard and await his orders.

……

In the heavens, the first rays of dawn shine.

The thin mist on the summit of Mirror Sea Mountain has not completely dissipated, like a light veil, lingeringly enveloping the layered mountains.

The ancient pine tree, with its gnarled branches, stretches out its branches as if a giant hand is trying to embrace the rising sun.

The dew that condenses on the pine needles is like a string of translucent pearls, reflecting the soft sunlight, crystal clear and breathtakingly beautiful.

Inside the Yang family mansion courtyard, all was quiet and peaceful.

The lingering fragrance of orchids and musk had not yet completely dissipated; those delicate aromas seemed to be the afterglow of last night's pleasure, mingling and lingering with the fresh scent of grass and trees, soothing and refreshing.

In the room.

Xiao Chen leaned lazily against the bed, looking relaxed.

"Your Majesty, it's time to eat grapes."

Wan Sheng Long Nu Ao Yao sat quietly to one side, her slender, white fingers gently picking up the last glistening, purple grape.

With focused expression, she gently peeled off the thin, translucent grape skin, then tenderly offered the crystal-clear, sculpted flesh to Xiao Chen's lips.

Xiao Chen parted his lips slightly and slowly put the grape into his mouth, his fingertips inadvertently brushing against her warm, jade-like wrist.

As a member of the aquatic race, Wan Sheng Long Nu's constitution is inherently extremely sensitive.

This fleeting touch was like a tiny electric current, instantly coursing through her entire body, causing her delicate frame to tremble slightly and a blush to rise on her cheeks.

Wan Shenglongnu lowered her head shyly, not daring to look Xiao Chen in the eye, but her heart was pounding like a deer.

The plan of the day is in the morning.

You need to wash your face when you wake up in the morning.

Only after a thorough grooming and washing can one feel refreshed and ready to start a new day.

then.

Xiao Chen used the unique Halloween Dragon Girl brand facial cleanser to wash his face.

I enjoyed it.

"Ambergris" is also known as "dragon's belly incense".

Its color is dark brown, interspersed with colorful patterns, and it is an opaque solid waxy block, like solidified amber, quiet and radiant.

Therefore, it is also known as "grey amber".

If burned, it produces a rich and lasting fragrance that permeates the air, possessing a unique sweet and earthy aroma. Its subtle fragrance is captivating and extraordinary, truly a gem among incense.

In ancient times, fishermen along the coast would sometimes accidentally find this "ambergris" in the vast ocean. They would treasure it as a priceless gem and present it to the emperor.

In the deep gardens of the imperial palace, ambergris was used as a good medicine to cure serious and stubborn diseases, or as a wonderful ingredient for burning incense to add elegance and tranquility.

However, in Yang Guoshan's memory, he was the son of a fisherman.

But he didn't see much of this "ambergris" when he was a child by the sea.

From ancient times to the present, ambergris has been used as a high-grade spice, and its price is expensive and extremely luxurious, almost equivalent to that of gold.

It can be considered a rare and precious spice.

Perfumes, facial cleansers, fragrances, and other products blended with ambergris not only have a gentle, elegant, and pleasant aroma that is refreshing and delightful, but also have a long-lasting and persistent fragrance.

Those who hear it are all captivated, as if they have entered a fairyland, and find it unforgettable.

but.

The "dragon" in the ancient "ambergris" generally refers to fish such as whales.

Instead of a real dragon.

The Dragon Girl before me, though not a direct descendant of the Ancestral Dragon, is still a genuine dragon.

That "ambergris" was naturally extraordinary, incomparable to ordinary whales and other fish.

Of course, this ambergris is different from that ambergris.

Their methods of sourcing materials and their techniques of production are completely different.

The unique Halloween Dragon Girl brand facial cleanser used by Xiao Chen is actually a cleanser made by Ao Yao using the dragon clan's unique spiritual liquid "Dragon Saliva Dew," carrying her unique fragrance and scent.

When washing with the ambrosia and celestial dew.

In an instant.

The strange touch and aroma of the Dragon Saliva Dew enveloped Xiao Chen like a surging tide, almost trapping him in the world of this facial cleanser.

"Cough, cough, cough..."

"Cough, cough, cough..."

This feeling... is just too wonderful. Xiao Chen felt that breathing had become difficult, and he was almost suffocating.

In a trance.

He felt as if he had fallen into a mysterious and fantastical ocean, surrounded by an intoxicating fragrance.

That fragrance was like a giant whirlpool, sucking him in fiercely.

It made it difficult for him to break free and unable to extricate himself.

However, after washing his face, Xiao Chen felt refreshed and invigorated, and his eyes became bright and sparkling.

This is exactly:
"After a thorough washing, one feels refreshed and ready to start a new day."

After Ao Yao carefully helped Xiao Chen wash his face, she finished.

The delicate "Dragon's Saliva Dew" facial cleanser left a faint, elegant fragrance on Xiao Chen's face, as if Ao Yao's gentleness had also been blended into the morning light.

After washing his face, Xiao Chen slowly opened his eyes, gazing at the graceful and elegant dragon maiden Ao Yao before him. A meaningful smile appeared on his lips as he teased her:

"Ao Yao, you are truly a great dragon maiden who embraces all things and is incredibly magnanimous..."

"what?"

Upon hearing this, Ao Yao was taken aback at first, a hint of doubt flashing in her bright eyes. Then she understood the deeper meaning behind Xiao Chen's words, and the blush on her cheeks became even more radiant.

She spat lightly and said coquettishly:
"Golden Horn, you're making fun of me again..."

After speaking, Ao Yao's shyness was fully revealed.

She turned slightly to the side, no longer allowing Xiao Chen to admire the alluring scenery of the soft, gentle mountains.

at the same time.

Her hands unconsciously touched her burning cheeks, as if trying to hide her shyness in the deep collar of her clothes.

His appearance was so adorable that Xiao Chen couldn't help but burst into laughter.

"Hahaha……"

"Ao Yao, this isn't teasing you, it's a compliment..."

Hearing Xiao Chen's laughter, Ao Yao felt even more embarrassed. She stamped her foot and pretended to be angry, saying:

"Still laughing, still laughing..."

But there was no anger in her tone; instead, it sounded more like she was being coquettish.

……

The uniform of the Sky Patrol Captain was adorned with flowing gold threads and a subtle shimmer of precious light, exuding an air of extravagance.

This garment is not the ordinary standard clothing of the Heavenly Court. Rather, it was personally tailored by the Weaver Girl, a celestial official of the Heavenly Court, who used her supreme celestial magic and exquisite craftsmanship to create it specifically for Xiao Chen.

Every inch of the fabric was made from silk spun by celestial silkworms, soft and smooth; every stitch was so fine as to be seamless, perfectly matching his figure, as if this magnificent garment was an extension of his body.

Ao Yao gracefully rose and moved lightly to Xiao Chen's side. With a hint of embarrassment and a heart full of concern, she gently and meticulously straightened the fine wrinkles on his newly acquired, gleaming Heavenly General Armor.

The coldness of her golden armor made her fingertips appear even softer and more delicate.

"It's getting late."

Xiao Chen slowly stood up, his movements casual and natural, gently gathering and tightening the wide Heavenly General's robe.

The previous languid demeanor quietly vanished, replaced by a sharp and strategic air.

Xiao Chen carefully checked that the official seal of "Yaochi Sili Wensong Envoy" on his waist was properly fastened.

Although this official position is a sinecure, in the hierarchical and rule-bound Heavenly Court, having an extra layer of legitimate official status naturally brings many advantages.

Xiao Chen's gaze gently fell on the beautiful face of Wan Shenglongnu, a smile playing on his lips, and he said:

"Today I will go to report to the Curtain-Rolling General and, while I'm at it, pay a visit to Sun Wukong at the Great Sage Equaling Heaven's residence."

After several days of careful care from Xiao Chen, supplemented by the nourishing effects of the large peaches, Wan Sheng Long Nu's complexion has indeed improved significantly.

The pale, sorrowful look of Wan Shenglongnu had faded considerably, and her gaze once again radiated the innate, luminous beauty of a dragon princess. Like a pearl cleansed of dust, her brilliance was captivating and mesmerizing. However…

At this moment, Wan Shenglongnu's worries had not subsided, and her willow-leaf-shaped eyebrows were still slightly furrowed, as if she had a thousand thoughts on her mind.

"Golden Horn..."

She bit her lip gently, hesitating to speak, her eyes revealing a hint of hesitation and worry.

Seeing this, Xiao Chen said gently:
"Ao Yao, just say what's on your mind."

Ao Yao lowered her head slightly and said softly:

"Golden Horn, be careful on this trip."

"Although you used to know the Monkey King Sun Wukong, he is now the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, appointed by the Heavenly Court, and his status is no longer what it used to be."

"Don't be too... direct in stating your purpose."

She subtly reminded him, fearing that Xiao Chen's scheme was too straightforward and might arouse the vigilance and displeasure of the Monkey King, Sun Wukong.

After all, she didn't know about Xiao Chen and Sun Wukong's long-standing friendship, nor did she know about Sun Wukong's personality.

In Ao Yao's view, Sun Wukong is now the Great Sage Equaling Heaven of the Heavenly Court, no longer a wild monster in the mortal realm.

It's hard to say whether the Monkey King, Sun Wukong, would take the risk to help them.

Xiao Chen smiled upon hearing this.

The Dragon Girl of the Halloween Festival hasn't even entered King Golden Horn's household yet, so she's not considered one of his own.

He naturally wouldn't reveal many secrets too early.

"Ao Yao, don't worry."

Xiao Chen raised his hand and skillfully tidied the few strands of hair that had been ruffled by the morning breeze from her forehead.

His fingertips brushed against her alabaster cheek again, almost imperceptibly.

That domineering yet intimate gesture made Ao Yao's breath catch in her throat again, her cheeks flushed like the color of the sunset, making her breathtakingly beautiful.

"I have my own sense of proportion."

"The 'Wangchi Literary Envoy' inspecting the Peach Garden to 'accumulate poetic material' for the next grand event is a perfectly legitimate matter."

"As for the rest..."

Xiao Chen smiled, his eyes revealing a hint of mystery and confidence:

"I'll see what happens when I meet the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong."

His gaze swept over Ao Yao's face, which had regained its radiance, and finally settled on her flat stomach—the place where her magical foundation had been most severely damaged.

Xiao Chen raised his hand and pressed down lightly in the air, a wisp of gentle and pure magic power quietly probing in to examine it carefully.

The gentle, nourishing power of the large-fruited flat peach still flows within it, tirelessly trying to repair those tiny, spiderweb-like cracks in its foundation.

Unfortunately, this nourishing and restorative power is ultimately insufficient in the face of such a profound and fundamental wound, like a trickle trying to fill an endless ocean, yielding little result.

"The damage to our foundation cannot be repaired in a day. We must obtain the Nine-Leaf Lingzhi Grass."

"You should stay here and calmly adjust your breathing, and wait for my return."

Ao Yao felt a warmth in her heart from Xiao Chen's concerned gaze and actions. She gently bit her lower lip, nodded softly, and said in a gentle voice:
"Um……"

Xiao Chen gave Ao Yao a deep look, said nothing more, and strode out of the courtyard.

Before his figure disappeared into the misty mountain air, his deep voice drifted back on the wind, clearly reaching Ao Yao's ears:

"wait for my good news."

The tranquility of Mirror Sea Mountain was briefly broken by footsteps, then quickly returned to silence.

Only Wan Shenglongnu Ao Yaoyu remained, her graceful figure leaning against the railing, gazing into the distance.

"Golden Horn..."

Her gaze lingered, following the figure gleaming in golden armor as it disappeared into the wispy white clouds on the horizon until it vanished without a trace.

……

The Thirty-Three Heavens are the pivotal point of power in the celestial realm.

It soars high above the heavens, ethereal in the sky, a place revered by all the gods.

But then one could see that the heavens were shrouded in a thousand layers of auspicious mist, like silk ribbons swirling around; and that the heavenly light shone in myriad rays, like golden rays soaring into the sky.

Celestial music, melodious and delicate, descended gracefully from the clouds; divine light shone brightly, crisscrossing and intertwining, dazzling yet flickering.

The "Ephemeral Shadow Boots" beneath Xiao Chen's feet swirled with ephemeral shadows, transforming him into a golden streak of light that pierced through the clouds and sped toward the Thirty-Three Heavens.

Upon reaching the entrance to the Thirty-Three Heavens, the scenery changed drastically.

Auspicious light and solemn atmosphere coexist, with a group of guardian generals wearing golden armor, holding halberds and spears, their appearances majestic, their eyes like lightning, scanning all directions.

Xiao Chen, with a solemn expression, took out the token of the Sky Patrol Captain and presented the edict of the Dou Department.

After carefully examining the seal and confirming that the identity was genuine, the guardian general's expression softened slightly, and he nodded slightly, allowing the person to pass.

What is a life like that of a god?

As the saying goes:
"You must be happy in life, and don't let the golden bottle face the moon."

This must be what a life like for gods is like.

today.

The Jade Emperor did not attend court; he went on a day off.

It's unknown which fairy's residence the Jade Emperor visited, to hear her play celestial music, to admire her graceful dance, or...

Anyway, the Donghua Rebellion has been quelled.

The Jade Emperor was in a great mood and went off to enjoy himself to the fullest.

With the Jade Emperor retired, the Curtain-Raising General naturally also no longer needed to be on duty and could rest at his residence.

The Curtain-Raising General is actually the "Soaring Sky Guardian General of the Crimson Palace, Jade Pivot Attendant of the Nine Heavens," a position of extraordinary stature, and a highly respected figure in the Heavenly Court.

His government office was exceptionally luxurious, located on the side of the Lingxiao Palace, making it convenient to respond to summons at any time.

The foundation of the mansion is paved with white jade, which is crystal clear and warm to the touch; the tiles are covered with glazed tiles, which are colorful and shine in the sun; the eaves are hung with demon bells, which make clear and melodious sounds when the wind blows, as if they can drive away evil spirits and create a solemn atmosphere.

Outside the residence of General Rolling Curtain, golden-armored celestial soldiers stood in rows like a forest, their armor gleaming coldly, exuding an awe-inspiring majesty.

On both sides of the mansion gate, there are huge stone sculptures in the shape of demon-slaying staffs, which stand tall and majestic, demonstrating the authority of the mansion lord.

After announcing his name and purpose, Xiao Chen was led into the magnificent main hall of the government office.

On the main seat, a divine general sat majestically.

This general was over ten feet tall, dressed in a black robe and golden armor. The black robe was as dark as night, and the golden armor was as bright as the sun, complementing each other perfectly.

Its physique is as robust and powerful as a mountain, with muscles that are as if cast from refined iron.

This general had a face as red as a jujube, exuding an imposing aura without anger. His eyes shone with a sharp, piercing light when they opened and closed. Several old scars were faintly visible on his forehead, which not only did not detract from his appearance but also added to his fierce and murderous aura, suggesting he had experienced countless battles.

Indeed, it is: "The Curtain-Rolling General!"

He sat upright in the main seat, with command flags and seals laid out on the long table in front of him, and a gleaming demon-slaying staff standing beside him.

"Yang Guoshan, you've arrived."

The general's voice, like muffled thunder, rolled across the hall, his sharp, eagle-like gaze scrutinizing Xiao Chen as he entered.

"Your subordinate Yang Guoshan pays respects to the General!"

Xiao Chen stood tall and straight, and with neither arrogance nor servility, he clasped his hands in a standard military salute.

"Yes, Not Bad."

The curtain-rolling general nodded slightly, his deep voice carrying a hint of approval:
"In this campaign to quell the Donghua rebels, you killed 136 rebel soldiers and 5 rebel generals."

"This military achievement is considered outstanding even among the Silver Armor Heavenly Soldiers."

"What's even more remarkable is that, in a moment of crisis, you braved difficulties to go to the Jade Pool to borrow a golden hairpin from the Queen Mother of the West to save the emperor!"

General Juanlian's praise was evident, and a look of satisfaction appeared on his face.

Although he was somewhat arrogant, he was generous in praising his subordinates who were truly talented, had made outstanding contributions, and acted in an orderly manner.

"I've already spoken to Kang Jinxing about your situation."

"From now on, your entire unit will be under my command."

"You can select and supplement the soldiers yourself at the military headquarters and submit the roster."

"You are already aware of the Heavenly Court's rules: be diligent in your duties and do not slack off!"

Xiao Chen respectfully replied:

"Your subordinate understands! I will certainly do my utmost to live up to the General's high expectations and promotion!"

……

General Rolling Curtain's style was decisive and efficient, and the reporting process went exceptionally smoothly.

Xiao Chen understood that his military achievements during the Donghua Rebellion and his trip to Yaochi to borrow treasures had earned him the recognition and respect of this Curtain-Raising General.

Followed by.

The Curtain-Rolling General then succinctly explained Xiao Chen's specific duties.

The duties of the Curtain-Rolling General are of great importance:
"To escort the emperor to and fro, to accompany him in and out of court, to guard the Lingxiao Palace, to arrange the Jade Emperor's protection, and to ensure the Jade Emperor's safety."

"Order the court officials and solemnize the Heavenly Court; summon all the immortals to discuss the secrets of Heaven; strike the Jingyang Bell, its sound resounding through the nine heavens!"

The duty that General Curtain has assigned to Xiao Chen is to stand guard outside the gate of the Lingxiao Palace, which symbolizes the supreme power of the Heavenly Court.

Fortunately, the Lingxiao Palace is not frequently opened.

This position is held on a one-day-on, six-day-off basis, and is rotated among several generals under the command of the Curtain-Rolling General.

Currently, General Rolling Curtain, being considerate of his new employee status, has granted him a few days off to familiarize himself with the environment and routes for the next thirty-three days, so that he can better perform his duties in the future.

……

After bidding farewell to General Curtain Roller.

Xiao Chen then headed straight for the Great Sage Equaling Heaven's Palace in the Thirty-Three Heavens.

(End of this chapter)