Chapter 101: Gu Maiden (14)

Buddhist Monk Chengming staggered slightly, his thoughts spiraling into chaos. Instinctively, he tightly embraced Benefactress’s body, momentarily casting aside all monastic rules and restrictions.

I must save her, Chengming thought numbly, regardless of what she has done, I have to save her first.

[…]

m577: Great, yet another one driven to foolishness.

As soon as the female supporting character lost consciousness, Tong Ling swiftly gave instructions to the system, “Quick, heal me now; who knows how long it’ll take for the Buddhist monk to rescue and revive my body.”

Tong Ling had become adept at commanding the system without any reservations or concealment.

Complying obediently, m577 scanned the female supporting character’s vital data. It discovered that the host had indeed been ruthless; the rampant effects of the parasites within her body had nearly pushed her once again to the brink of death.

[Aren’t you pushing it too far?]

“If I didn’t make it seem desperate, how could I convince him that I’m on the verge of dying?” Tong Ling licked her lips, recalling the Buddhist monk’s stunned expression with a smile. “Just seeing his reaction makes it entirely worth it.”

Feeling that the host was being too reckless, m577 grew somewhat angry: [You’re certain I’ll help you, aren’t you? That’s why you acted so recklessly without considering the consequences.]

Tong Ling didn’t deny it, “Considering our relationship, there’s no need to dwell on such matters, right?”

This simple response easily pacified m577. Its head drooped, and even its data fur ceased fluttering, leaving the entire system subdued: [I’ve checked the status of those small worlds.]

Seeing the system’s reaction, Tong Ling knew the worlds likely met unfortunate fates.

m577 somberly replied: [The small worlds have ceased functioning; there are…there are no signs of any souls remaining.]

Indeed, this was deeply troubling. Although Tong Ling had not participated in those specific worlds, she couldn’t empathize much with them directly. However, having such a tyrannical God exerting control over them was disheartening.

“How about the small worlds we experienced together?” Tong Ling asked.

[They’re still intact!] This was the most reassuring news m577 could provide. It lifted its head, eyes sparkling as it gazed at its host: [D-didn’t I maintain those small worlds?]

“Yes,” Tong Ling replied gently, “Even the world consciousness assisted us, making our task completion quite effortless.”

In a somber tone, m577 stated: [My mission is to maintain the operation of the small worlds; I am not a system designed solely for harvesting souls.]

Tong Ling stroked the system’s data strands affectionately. “I know.”

If she hadn’t confirmed that her foolish system posed no harm, Tong Ling wouldn’t have revealed these matters to it.

Her purpose in telling the system was straightforward: “You need to find a way to dismantle that plot detection device.”

While Tong Ling could complete quest scenarios using various methods, it didn’t mean she willingly accepted being constantly constrained by others. Binding with the system to visit different small worlds was meant for leisure and exploration, not primarily for fulfilling tasks.

Gradually, Tong Ling intended to clear away all restrictions imposed upon her. If her system remained somewhat useful, then instead of serving as God’s system, it should become hers alone. Whatever Tong Ling desired, she aimed to attain, and after so long, it was time to reap the rewards.

M577 was aware that the plot detection equipment is connected to God’s terminal, through which God monitors the progression of each small world. If it dismantled the device, it would essentially…

“God will eventually discover our exploit,” Tong Ling said. “While He hasn’t found out yet, you still have a chance.”

Tong Ling had long since aligned her interests with those of the system; in the previous world, even the system itself exploited loopholes to complete the storyline. The system now had no choice.

Unaware that its actions were meticulously planned by Tong Ling, m577 did know they contradicted God’s will. Such defiance could lead to being… eliminated by God.

Shivering, m577 nestled into its host’s embrace and asked, 【C-can I escape?】

“Why not?” Tong Ling chuckled softly. “Don’t forget, I’m with you. We can flee together.”

As a fugitive from the start, how could a wanted criminal fear running away?

【Flee together…】 M577 swiftly made up its mind: 【I’ll find a way, I’ll dismantle that device!】

“Don’t forget about the System Store provided by God,” Tong Ling reminded it. “Crack it open; there’s plenty of valuable items inside. Don’t let them go to waste.”

Tong Ling primarily couldn’t bear parting with the smoke item given by God.

m577 had never faced such a significant challenge before, feeling both exhilarated and fearful.

“Taking a closer look, God has done quite well with appearances,” Tong Ling praised. “Not only does He present Himself as a savior, instilling a sense of mission among all subordinate systems, but also makes those contracted workers feel they’re engaged in legitimate endeavors.”

“He even introduced virtual currency exchange for staying time in small worlds, ensuring people believe these worlds will continue functioning. Such deception deserves a round of applause.” Tong Ling’s admiration was genuine; no one subjected to abuse and harm as cannon fodder characters would willingly remain in these small worlds, yet God specifically allowed this exchange feature, making it rather ironic.

Previously, m577 could not tolerate any criticism against God, but now it fell silent.

“You should learn more from God,” Tong Ling said with high expectations for the system. “With technology surpassing that of these small worlds and God as your resource, you could truly achieve much more…”

Encouraged by her words, m577’s enthusiasm surged. After healing the female supporting character enough for her to move freely, it promptly set off to attend to other tasks.

Tong Ling remained in the consciousness sea, not rushing to awaken. She wanted to savor Buddhist Monk Chengming’s anxious expression further, hoping to even coax him into speaking - that would be the icing on the cake.

After treating the Benefactress, Chengming took her pulse to confirm there were no serious complications before finally exhaling deeply. He sat at the bedside, staring blankly at her face, his mind replaying the words she had spoken:

“You belong to me now.”

Chengming couldn’t help but feel a burning flush on his cheeks, his heart pounding wildly. His gaze shifted to the Benefactress’s lips, noticing the traces of blood, which reminded him involuntarily of their honey-sweet taste.

And then there were her warm, soft lips…

No, wait. Chengming swiftly redirected his thoughts, reminding himself that what mattered was the Benefactress’s health condition, not such distractions.

The Benefactress’s blood was far from ordinary; even while treating her, Chengming noticed that her body…deviated significantly from what one would expect.

Her unique fragrance wasn’t due to incense but emanated naturally from her skin. Additionally, her bones were exceptionally soft, coupled with her blood… Chengming had never encountered such a person before. However, during his past research on antidotes for poison gu, he had studied numerous texts related to gu insects and stumbled upon this description:

“Gu Ren, a rare commodity created through refining various precious herbs. Possessing an exotic scent, their blood has a fragrant taste, and their bones are remarkably pliable. They are favored by gu insects as preferred sustenance. Their aroma attracts myriad venomous creatures, and guzhong cultivated with their blood become immensely powerful. To prevent Gu Ren from being devoured by toxic bugs and instead serve as long-term gu feeders under the control of a Gu shaman, seven specific poisonous herbs must be added to their regimen. Due to the conflicting properties of these herbs and poisons, it is exceedingly difficult for Gu Ren to survive this process…”

Gu Ren… The Benefactress was actually a Gu Ren!

From the recorded descriptions alone, it was clear how challenging it was to create a Gu Ren and the immense suffering involved in becoming one.

The Benefactress could not have willingly become a Gu Ren; her suffering from the Gu backlash also indicated she hadn’t released them for a long time…

Contrary to Xie Tanyue’s claims that all jianghu poisonous Gu were her fault, it seemed the Benefactress herself was a victim of these toxic creatures.

Chengming felt compelled to understand the Benefactress better and couldn’t simply condemn her based on Xie Tanyue’s one-sided account. But why hadn’t she awakened yet? Could there be an error in his treatment method?

Uneasy, Chengming gently wiped away the bloodstains from the corner of the Benefactress’s lips with a damp silk cloth. After pondering briefly, he retrieved paper, ink, and brush, personally composing a letter. Standing by the window, he took out a whistle from his sleeve and blew.

When a pigeon arrived, Chengming tied the letter to its leg, feeling somewhat reassured as he released the bird into flight.

The Benefactress’s condition was peculiar—extremely perilous during the Gu backlash, yet now devoid of those symptoms. Worried about potential oversights due to his limited medical expertise, Chengming decided it would be best to summon someone more skilled. Perhaps together they could address the underlying issues affecting the Benefactress’s health…

From within her consciousness sea, Tong Ling observed Buddhist Monk Chengming for quite some time. She realized this monk truly was a foolish one; aside from staring at her blankly, he didn’t dare make any slightest movement. If she lay there motionless, he would gaze endlessly without any hint of interest.

Tong Ling returned to her body and slowly opened her eyes.

Seeing the Benefactress awake, an involuntary smile spread across Chengming’s face.

Taken aback by the monk’s radiant grin, Tong Ling blurted out, “Are you that happy after being kissed by me?”

Buddhist Monk Chengming’s heart raced uncontrollably, yet his face abruptly turned pale. He began reciting sutras silently within himself, but with his mind already disturbed, no amount of repetition could calm him…

“Monk, I’m feeling uneasy. Keep me company and talk to me.” Tong Ling reached out and gently grasped Chengming’s slender, fair fingers, their knuckles distinct like finely carved jade. From the moment she first laid eyes on the monk, she had been struck by his ethereal demeanor, luminous gaze, and immense compassion. Such qualities invariably tempted Tong Ling to tease him further.

Chengming’s arm tensed, and he immediately wanted to pull his fingers away. However, once his hand landed on the Benefactress’s, his body froze, unable to move. An unprecedented tingling sensation flooded his heart, causing his face to flush deeply. This time, he dared not even glance at her.

“Monk, you’re mine now. Is it that hard to talk to me?” The Benefactress gently tugged on Chengming’s hand. He closed his eyes, feeling his internal mantras shatter as his mind became consumed by thoughts of the kiss she had bestowed upon him.

He caught the scent of her fragrance again as she sat up from the bed, leaning close beside him. Half of Chengming’s body seemed to ignite with heat. Warm breath brushed against his neck, and he heard the Benefactress say, “If you don’t speak, I’ll have to kiss you.”

Buddhist Monk Chengming paled visibly, his throat bobbing nervously. After years of silence, a faint sound finally emerged from his voice, “N-not!”

“So you aren’t mute after all.” Tong Ling continued playing with the monk’s fingers, completely disregarding his refusal. With a playful grin, she kissed his cheek, “See? You can hardly form words. Speak some more.”

Chengming remained speechless, momentarily stunned.

Repeatedly breaking his vows had already shattered his cultivation, and moreover…

“Ha! You clearly want it so badly; why bother with pretenses?” A foreign voice emerged from Chengming’s mouth, transforming the saintly expression on his face into something eerie.

“Go back at once!” Chengming exclaimed indignantly. After years of suppression, not uttering a single word, he never imagined this side of himself would be exposed to the Benefactress’s eyes!

“Go back? Ha ha ha, why should I?” The voice laughed wildly. “Unaware that you’ve been afflicted by a Lust Gu, Chengming—pretending ignorance or truly oblivious?”

“I…” Buddhist Monk Chengming’s facial expressions shifted rapidly. “I don’t need your input!”

“I am deeply grateful to this Benefactress,” the voice sighed. “If not for her stirring your worldly desires, I wouldn’t have had the chance to breathe free.”

Intrigued by this sudden development, Tong Ling promptly asked, “Who are you?”

The expression on Chengming’s face altered, and when he opened his eyes again, all traces of solemnity were gone, replaced by a wild and wicked smile. “I am Maha. What is your name, Benefactress? This Lust Gu is indeed potent; even upon seeing you, I can’t resist wanting you.”

As Maha spoke, his hands already encircled the woman’s soft waist. He lowered his head to inhale her fragrance, “It’s truly a shame for such a beauty like you to be interested in Chengming, that blockhead.”

Maha’s behavior was flirtatious, and his words suggestive—a stark contrast to Buddhist Monk Chengming.

Most people would have been terrified by this sudden transformation, breaking out in cold sweat. Yet Tong Ling merely laughed and leaned into Maha’s embrace, “I am Xiling. What difference does it make whether I fancy Chengming or you? Aren’t you sharing the same body and face?”

With a slight lift at the corners of his eyes, Maha found his interest piqued further by this Gu woman named Xiling. “Your perspective is quite intriguing,” he said.

In Chengming’s youth, Maha had surfaced several times, only to be perceived as a demonic entity each instance. Even Chengming’s own master, the abbot of Fanjing Temple, deemed him monstrous. Consequently, he instructed Chengming to practice verbal restraint, urging him to avoid impulsive actions, careless speech, and improper thoughts. The abbot claimed this would lessen his sins—how utterly laughable!

Maha had never committed any evil deeds; how could anything about him be sinful? Despite living within the confines of the temple daily, he continued to exist just the same, proving those so-called teachings rather ineffective.

Perhaps the only one who saw him as simply a person was the Gu woman before him now.

Maha had never committed any evil deeds, so how could he be burdened with sin? Even while confined to the temple day after day, he continued to “live,” proving that those Buddhist teachings held little effect on him.

The only one who seemed capable of viewing him as a person was likely this Gu woman before him now.

“I didn’t expect a Lust Gu to net me two individuals; what a bargain.” Tong Ling gently caressed Maha’s cheek, finding it quite intriguing to witness the transformation from saintly monk to demonic seducer.

“Am I not enough for you?” Maha’s expression darkened as he leaned down and kissed her crimson lips. “A demoness belongs with a demonic being—only you and I are truly meant for each other.”

“Stop!”

Just as Maha pressed his lips against Xiling, Chengming reemerged from within their shared body. This most gentle and compassionate Buddhist monk, incensed by Maha, lost his composure and sternly rebuked, “Do not touch this Benefactress!”

Maha taunted, “If you won’t let me touch her, do you intend to do it yourself?”

“Hold your tongue!” Chengming exclaimed, deeply enraged. “This is my body. If you dare lay a hand on her, I’ll immediately sever my own meridians!”

Maha fell silent. Given Chengming’s unbending nature, he knew the monk might indeed follow through on such a threat.

Seeing Maha comply, Chengming hastily tried to push Xiling away and find an empty room to seclude himself in, but…

Smiling, Tong Ling wrapped her arms around the Buddhist monk’s neck and whispered into his ear, “Monk, you’re quite unreasonable. Since you’ve driven Maha away, why not compensate me with yourself?”

The heat on Chengming’s face had yet to dissipate, and he feared Maha might reappear at any moment. Urgently, he said, “Benefactress, let go of me. I-I cannot…”

“If you can’t, then let someone who can take over. You won’t even give yourself to me when I desire it?” Tong Ling feigned indignation. “Maha, come out quickly—I don’t want him anymore!”

Dazed, Chengming watched as Maha was about to seize control again. In desperation, he swiftly pecked Benefactress on the lips and murmured, “Stop calling… I…” His voice trembled, unable to articulate those words, shuddering with shame.

Maha sneered at Chengming, “What hypocrisy! Aren’t you just trying to monopolize her for yourself?”

Buddhist Monk Chengming firmly trapped Maha within their shared body, determined not to lower his guard no matter what Maha said—he would never allow him back out.

As Chengming struggled to suppress his desires, the benefactress hooked her index finger onto his monk robes, smiling like blooming spring flowers. “Why aren’t you coming closer? How long do you expect me to wait?”

Overwhelmed and helpless, Chengming found himself pushed onto the bed by the benefactress. In that moment, he forgot the Buddhist scriptures, the Buddha himself, and years of arduous practice. He became hazy and intoxicated by this emotional entrapment, unable to escape…