The Fierce Farm Girl Has A Secret Space Chapter 2396: Soul Devouring Technique (Part 4)

Within a secluded cave nestled in the mountains beyond the county town, Diewu was deeply engrossed in her meditation. Upon completing a minor cycle, she exhaled softly, her eyes fluttering open with a subtle smile gracing her lips. The first level of the Soul Devouring Technique had finally been mastered. Not only were her internal injuries mended, but the rate at which her external wounds healed had also significantly improved. At this pace, it was estimated that within a maximum of seven to eight months, she would ascend to the fifth and final level. Once that milestone was reached, her internal strength would rival that of a sixty-year cultivator, making even the Young Master an easy opponent, let alone Yang Ruxin.

Furthermore, the most formidable aspect of the Soul Devouring Technique lies in its ability to absorb a person's very soul, leaving the victim as nothing more than a soulless, walking corpse.

"Very well, I shall permit you to live for a few more months," Diewu declared with a triumphant laugh. Abruptly, a dull ache resonated within her chest. She quickly exerted control over her mind, regulating her inner strength to suppress the discomfort.

There was no alternative; the Soul Devouring Technique was a forbidden art of the Flame Sect, strictly reserved for the Sect Hierarch alone. Diewu had been fortunate to serve by Flame's side for many years and had once gained access to a secret chamber. Regrettably, despite her exceptional memory, certain details remained elusive. Consequently, some aspects of the practice might have been performed incorrectly, leading to this backlash against her body. Fortunately, her potent inner strength was sufficient to keep this reaction in check, rendering it manageable.

Unbeknownst to Diewu's fervent desire to end her life, Yang Ruxin was completely oblivious. Even if she were aware, her reaction would likely be a dismissive "lunatic." Currently, Yang Ruxin's focus was entirely on the preparations for Erni's birthday banquet.

The eighteenth day of the first lunar month marked Erni's birthday, an occasion that this year coincided with her significant coming-of-age ceremony.

A select group of close families had been invited to bear witness. Yuan Mengzhu graciously assumed the role of the primary guest, while the village head's wife, Lin Xiaoling, undertook the duties of the ceremonial officiant.

Yang Ruxin personally dedicated her efforts to crafting a magnificent, sizable cake for the celebration.

Yuan Mengzhu then took the hairpin, a gift bestowed by Gu Yao, and used it to expertly secure Erni's hair, signifying her transition from girlhood.

Although, from Yang Ruxin's perspective, fifteen years of age still seemed quite young, she acknowledged that this was the customary path for women of this era, a reality she could not alter. Moreover, Gu Yao's commendable restraint in refraining from consummating their marriage despite being wed for a year was noted. With Erni's coming-of-age finally arrived, further obstruction would be utterly inhumane, leaving Yang Ruxin to offer only her heartfelt blessings.

Following the conclusion of the joyous banquet, the newly acknowledged couple retreated to their chambers, amidst the cheers and playful nudges of the crowd, to finally consummate the wedding night that had been delayed by a full year.

By the latter half of January, Yang Ruxin's pregnancy had progressed into its third month. As per the wisdom of the elders, the fetus was now stable, meaning the joyous news could be shared publicly.

This announcement ignited a wave of excitement throughout the village, with residents arriving to extend their congratulations. Naturally, everyone was remarkably considerate, ensuring not to disturb Yang Ruxin directly, but instead directing their felicitations towards Dong Wenxiu and Feng Zilan.

"Madam, Guan Qingshu has arrived," Chun Hua announced, entering to relay the message. "Aunt Wen inquired if you would permit an audience."

Given that the majority of well-wishers were women, Guan Qingshu's solo visit was somewhat unusual. However, Dong Wenxiu, maintaining proper decorum, would not make a hasty refusal.

Yang Ruxin, also filled with a sense of curiosity, after a brief pause, gave her assent. "Let us go and meet him."

As Gu Qingheng was currently away from home, Gu Yao took it upon himself to entertain Guan Qingshu in the main hall, engaging him in conversation.

In contrast to previous times, Gu Yao would have unequivocally unwelcome Guan Qingshu. However, he now found himself conversing pleasantly and even laughing with him, demonstrating a remarkable ability to manage his emotions and a significant display of maturity.

A sense of profound relief washed over Yang Ruxin as she entered the room with a welcoming smile.