Chapter 191: Finding Trouble

“Where’s Xuan’er?”

Yun Yanling stepped into the shop, her gaze scanning the room before landing on Qin Zhan, who was busy arranging items on the shelves.

“He’s cultivating upstairs,” Qin Zhan replied with a smile, deftly placing freshly delivered spirit pills onto the display racks.

“Shuang’er went with Father to the imperial capital for the Hundred Clans Gathering. Where did this new batch of spirit pills come from?”

Curiosity flickered in Yun Yanling’s eyes as she watched her husband, flanked by a few shop attendants, stocking the shelves with a fresh supply of spirit pills.

“They’re all hand-crafted by Xuan’er himself. Shuang’er even made him a specialized alchemy furnace.

“These days, aside from completing the lessons assigned by Mr. Yu, Xuan’er spends all his time cultivating and refining pills,” Qin Zhan said, his tone brimming with pride.

“Really?”

Yun Yanling’s lips curved into a pleased smile as she picked up a second-grade healing pill from the Yellow Tier. Examining it closely, she noted the pill’s color and quality.

“While it’s not quite as refined as the ones Shuang’er makes, for Xuan’er to produce pills of this quality at his age is truly impressive. Who would’ve thought he’d have such talent?”

Yun Yanling had spent years managing the shop’s sales of spirit talismans, pills, and tools. Her sharp eye for quality had been honed over countless transactions.

“Shuang’er always said Xuan’er had a gift for alchemy and artifact crafting. With a few more years of practice, our family will gain another skilled alchemist and artificer.

“How far Xuan’er can go in those arts will depend on his talent and the opportunities that come his way,” Qin Zhan said with a chuckle, his pride evident.

Yun Yanling’s gaze shifted to the shop attendants, who were carrying several first- and second-grade spiritual artifacts onto the shelves.

“These new spiritual tools… were they also made by Xuan’er?”

“Indeed! Isn’t he amazing?” Qin Zhan said with a broad grin.

“Don’t praise him too much to his face. Otherwise, he might become complacent and stop striving to improve!” Yun Yanling chided, though her tone was affectionate.

“Haha! Don’t worry. I only brag about him to you,” Qin Zhan replied with a laugh.

“Alright. You carry on here. I’m going upstairs to check on Xuan’er. Let me know if you need me.”

“Got it! Go ahead,” Qin Zhan said, waving her off before turning back to his work.

On the second floor, Yun Yanling gently pushed open a door to find her son sitting cross-legged on the bed, his eyes closed in meditation.

Not wanting to disturb him, she quietly stepped into the room and took a seat by the window, watching him in peaceful silence.

Time passed, and eventually, Yun Wenxuan opened his eyes, exhaling a deep breath of turbid air.

“Finished your cultivation?” Yun Yanling asked with a gentle smile.

“Mother?!”

Yun Wenxuan’s face lit up as he sprang to his feet and ran to her, wrapping his arms around her in a joyful hug.

At nearly seven years old, he was already tall enough to reach his mother’s shoulders. Yet, his heart remained that of a child who loved to seek comfort in his mother’s embrace.

“You’re almost seven! Aren’t you too old to be clinging to your mother like this?” Yun Yanling said, half amused and half exasperated.

“Hehe, Xuan’er just loves Mother!” Yun Wenxuan grinned, stepping back and flashing her a toothy smile.

“How’s your schoolwork been lately?”

“I finished everything! Mr. Yu even said I’ve been very diligent in my studies, and my handwriting is improving.”

“And your cultivation?”

Yun Yanling’s smile deepened.

“Hehe! I’ve already broken through to the Embryo Breath Fifth Stage!” Yun Wenxuan declared proudly.

“That’s my boy! When your Uncle Yantian and Aunt Shuang’er were your age, I don’t think they were as advanced as you!”

“I’ll keep working hard! One day, I’ll surpass Uncle Yantian and Aunt Shuang’er. I’ll become a powerful cultivator like them and be a pillar of support for our family!”

Yun Wenxuan’s eyes shone with determination as he spoke.

“I look forward to that day,” Yun Yanling said, her tone warm with encouragement. “Cultivation must be tiring, isn’t it? As it happens, I made your favorite—braised spirit fish.

“This fish was caught by your Third Granduncle and the others from the Purple Mist Spirit Spring in Yuncang Mountain. It should help your cultivation and improve your constitution.”

“Such a rare treat! Did Wenyu and Wenrun get some too?”

“Of course. Good things like this should be shared. They’ve both received some, and the family has also set aside a few for your Uncle Yantian and Aunt Shuang’er.”

“That’s great!”

“Mother, let’s call Father and eat together!”

“Alright, I’ll go get him.”

Smiling softly, Yun Yanling took her son’s hand, and they headed downstairs together.

On the first floor of the shop, a middle-aged man in fine clothes entered with a few companions. He picked up a healing pill from a display shelf and turned to Qin Zhan.

“These new healing pills you’ve stocked don’t look particularly impressive. And you’re charging 35 lower-grade spirit stones for each?

“The Wang family’s shop next door sells similar healing pills for just 30 spirit stones.”

Qin Zhan, busy organizing the shop’s inventory, maintained his composure and replied with a polite smile.

“Sir, please take a closer look. The quality and potency of these healing pills far surpass those from the Wang family’s shop.

“If you’re injured while traveling, taking one of our pills will deliver results far superior to theirs.

“Moreover, 35 spirit stones is already a very fair price. In this market, you won’t find healing pills of this quality at such a price anywhere else but here in the Yun family’s shop.”

Though the customer praised the Wang family’s shop, Qin Zhan remained calm. As a businessman, he knew he had to greet every customer with a smile, no matter how unpleasant the situation.

Occasionally, a little embellishment was necessary to highlight his products.

“Don’t exaggerate. I can judge the quality of a pill myself,” the middle-aged man retorted, placing the pill back on the shelf.

His gaze wandered to another display. Spotting a jar of Purple Jade Spirit Wine, he asked, “Can I have a taste of this?”

“Of course!” Qin Zhan replied cheerfully. He fetched a small cup and poured a finger’s worth of the wine, handing it over with a respectful bow.

The man took the cup, raised it to his lips, and drank it in one go.

Moments later, he grimaced dramatically and spat the wine out onto the floor.

“What kind of wine is this? It tastes awful! It’s not even as good as the Wang family’s Red Mulberry Spirit Wine!”

“That’s impossible,” Qin Zhan said, frowning slightly. “Sir, this is Purple Jade Spirit Wine, meticulously crafted by our family.

“It’s rare and highly beneficial for cultivators, enhancing constitution and even aiding in healing injuries.

“To be honest, the Wang family’s Red Mulberry Spirit Wine can’t compare to it.”

“If I say it’s bad, it’s bad. Are you questioning me?”

The man’s brow furrowed in displeasure as he shot Qin Zhan a withering glare, then casually tossed the empty cup to the ground.

“Let’s go. The Yun family’s shop doesn’t have anything worth buying. We’re better off elsewhere,” he said, beckoning his companions to leave.

“Purple Jade Spirit Wine—50 lower-grade spirit stones per cup. You just tasted a finger’s worth, so I’ll charge you half price: 25 spirit stones.”

Before they could exit, Yun Yanling’s voice rang out. She descended the stairs with Yun Wenxuan, her expression calm but icy.

It didn’t take a genius to realize the man had come to her shop deliberately looking for trouble.

Recently, incidents like this had become more frequent. Trouble-seekers were a constant nuisance, and while Yun Yanling had been patient thus far, this time, she resolved to get to the bottom of it.

Was this the Wang family’s doing? Or was someone else pulling the strings?

“You dare charge that much for this awful wine?”

“Exactly! A finger’s worth for 25 spirit stones? Your shop must be crazy!”

“The Yun family’s shop is a scam! Your products are garbage, and you overcharge for everything!”

“Honestly, you should just close down before your goods hurt someone!”

The middle-aged man and his companions jeered and shouted, their disdainful voices filling the shop.

Yun Yanling ignored their provocations. Instead, she knelt down and whispered softly to her son.

“Xuan’er, are any of them cultivators?”

Yun Wenxuan closed his eyes briefly, his spiritual sense sweeping over the group.

“The middle-aged man is a cultivator at the Embryo Breath Second Stage. The rest are mortals—probably here to back him up.”

“Understood.”

 

Chapter 192: Close the door and beat the dog

“Xiao Si, Xiao Wu, close the shop and turn away any new customers!”

Yun Yanling’s voice was calm but commanding as she addressed the two shop attendants.

“Yes, madam!”

The young men bowed respectfully before hurrying to shut the shop doors, leaving the middle-aged man and his companions inside.

“What’s the meaning of this?” the man demanded, his brows furrowing as he glanced at the now-closed doors. His companions exchanged uneasy looks, clearly displeased.

They hadn’t left the shop yet, and now they were being treated as though they were invisible.

“Gentlemen, how about we continue this conversation in the courtyard?”

Yun Yanling’s gaze landed on the leader, her polite smile tinged with an edge of steel.

“Hmph! Fine. Let’s see what your Yun family dares to do!”

The middle-aged man scoffed, his confidence undiminished as he led his group into the shop’s rear courtyard.

“Stop! Please stop! I admit my fault! I was wrong!”

The courtyard was filled with the pitiful cries of the middle-aged man and his companions. Their faces were battered and bruised, their knees pressed into the ground as they kowtowed repeatedly before Yun Wenxuan.

They had expected Yun Yanling to engage in mere talk, certain that no mere mortals, even shopkeepers, would dare touch them.

After all, no matter how wealthy or influential the Yun family might be, they were still mortals. What could they possibly do to a Embryo Breath Second Stage cultivator?

But they hadn’t accounted for Yun Wenxuan—a boy of barely seven years, whose cultivation was leagues beyond their own. He had beaten them senseless with just a few effortless strikes, leaving them groveling on the ground like defeated dogs.

“Speak. Who sent you to cause trouble in my shop?”

Yun Yanling sat at a stone table in the courtyard, her demeanor calm as she sipped from a porcelain teacup. Her piercing gaze fell on the middle-aged man, now swollen and bruised beyond recognition.

“No one sent us! No one! It was all my fault. I didn’t recognize your esteemed family’s greatness and foolishly offended you. I deserve to be punished! Please spare us!”

The man’s forehead hit the ground repeatedly as he begged, his voice quivering with fear.

A mere mortal like Yun Yanling didn’t scare him, but her son—an unfathomable prodigy—was a different matter entirely.

“Wenxuan, keep hitting him until he tells the truth,” Yun Yanling said coolly, her tone leaving no room for argument.

“Alright!”

Yun Wenxuan’s eyes lit up with mischief as he cracked his knuckles and approached the man with a wicked grin.

“No! Stop! I’ll talk! I’ll talk!”

Panic-stricken, the man blurted out his confession before Yun Wenxuan could land another blow.

“It was the Su family! They’re the ones who sent me!”

“The Su family?”

Yun Yanling’s brows furrowed as she recalled the Su Clan from neighboring Lanlin County—a family that had risen to prominence last year amidst the collapse of the Sun family.

“Which Su family?”

“The Su Clan of Lanlin County! They paid me some spirit stones to cause trouble here.

“If you’re angry, take it up with them! I was just following orders!”

His voice trembled as he spoke, his fear evident.

“Xiao Si, Xiao Wu, escort them out. And make sure they leave behind all the spirit stones on them.”

“W-what?! You’re taking all my spirit stones?!”

The man’s face contorted in anguish.

“You don’t have to, of course. Wenxuan?”

“No, no, don’t hit me! I’ll give them to you!”

Cursing his misfortune, the man reluctantly pulled out the meager stash of 57 lower-grade spirit stones he had left and handed them over.

Inwardly, he cursed the Su family for setting him up. This job had turned into a nightmare, and he swore never to take on another task from them again.

“Why is the Yun family’s shop closed?”

“Looks like someone was causing trouble.”

“Who would be bold enough to pick a fight with the Yun family in their own marketplace?”

“Hard to say. But this isn’t the first time troublemakers have shown up at their shop recently.”

Outside on the bustling street, passing cultivators stopped to gossip as they noticed the closed doors of the Yun family’s shop.

It wasn’t long before the doors opened again.

The middle-aged man and his companions emerged, their faces battered and swollen. Noticing the onlookers, they hurriedly covered their faces with their sleeves and slunk away, eager to escape the humiliation.

“I don’t understand,” Qin Zhan said as he sat beside Yun Yanling in the now-quiet shop. His brows were furrowed in thought. “We’ve had no dealings with the Su family. Why would they send people to disrupt our business?”

“I’m not sure,” Yun Yanling replied, her expression thoughtful. “When my father returns, we’ll need to report this to him and have him investigate the Su family.

“But I can’t shake the feeling that the Wang family might also be involved in this.”

“What makes you think that?” Qin Zhan asked, his curiosity piqued.

“In just one year, the Su family of Lanlin County has risen too quickly. Even with the resources and spiritual treasures they acquired from the Sun family’s collapse, it’s inconceivable for them to have surpassed the Sun family’s former status as a prominent cultivation clan in such a short time,” Yun Yanling said thoughtfully.

“From what I know, the Su family now has four spiritual root descendants. One of them, originally from the Sun family and now absorbed into the Su family, is at the Embryo Breath Fifth Stage.

“The other three spiritual root cultivators are from the Su family’s branches, with cultivation levels ranging from the Embryo Breath First Stage to the Embryo Breath Second Stage.

“All four are being personally trained by two rogue cultivators. As for the strength of these two cultivators, their exact levels remain unknown.”

She paused before continuing. “Over the years, our Yun family has grown steadily, establishing this marketplace and even taking a share of business from the Yulin Wang Clan. The Wang family has held a grudge against us ever since.

“But because of the presence of the old Daoist, they haven’t dared to act openly against us.

“Now think—if you were the Wang family patriarch, how would you respond to this situation?”

Qin Zhan’s eyes widened as he considered her words. “Cultivate a proxy force in secret—one capable of counterbalancing and restricting the Yun family’s growth,” he murmured, his voice tinged with realization.

“Exactly,” Yun Yanling said, her expression cold. “If the Wang family cannot confront us directly, they’ll work from the shadows. They’d secretly cultivate a family like the Su clan, turning them into a competitor to drain our resources and suppress our influence.

“To ensure their control over this proxy force, they’d assign powerful rogue cultivators to support the Su family’s rise while keeping them under strict surveillance.

“This way, the Su family becomes their puppet, acting only in service to the Wang family’s goals.”

“But for now, it’s just a theory,” Qin Zhan said, frowning deeply.

“That’s why we need to investigate. When my father returns, we’ll have him look into the Su family thoroughly.

“And if we uncover the Wang family’s involvement, then the Su family must be eliminated,” Yun Yanling said, her gaze icy and unyielding.

Having managed the marketplace and family business for years, she had encountered countless cultivators and witnessed their ruthless tactics.

She was no longer the naive girl she once was.

The path forward for the Yun family would be fraught with challenges, and leading the family meant being prepared to eliminate any threats with decisive force.

In a world like this, where the strong preyed on the weak, compassion was a luxury few could afford.

If others dared to be ruthless, she would be even more so.

Wherever people gathered, there would be conflict. And where there was conflict, bloodshed was inevitable.

“Mother, Grandfather and the others should be returning from the capital in the next couple of days,” Yun Wenxuan said, stepping forward.

“By my calculations, they should be back soon,” Yun Yanling said, her expression softening as she looked at her son. The icy determination on her face melted into motherly warmth.

“Let me return to the clan and report this to Grandfather,” Yun Wenxuan said earnestly.

“Alright. Be careful on the way,” Yun Yanling said, her voice filled with concern.

“Don’t worry!”

With a mischievous grin, Yun Wenxuan vanished in a blur, his figure disappearing into the horizon in the blink of an eye.

At Yuncang Mountain, in the heart of the Yun family estate, Yun Yunyang and the others were greeted warmly by the entire clan upon their return.

Curious relatives surrounded them, eager to hear about their experiences at the Hundred Clans Gathering and the grand spectacle it must have been.

Yun Yunyang patiently answered their questions with a smile, sharing stories of their journey.

“Master,” Yun Yantian said, stepping forward with Baili Mo Xue by his side. Together, they bowed respectfully to the blind Daoist elder.

“It seems your travels were fruitful,” the elder said with a knowing smile. “Not only has your cultivation improved, but you’ve also brought back a beautiful bride.”

“Master, you jest,” Yun Yantian said, his face flushing slightly.

“Master, look what I brought for you!” Yun Yanshuang chimed in cheerfully. She approached with a wide grin, retrieving several jars of spirit wine from her storage pouch and setting them before the elder.

“Ah, excellent! Excellent!” the old Daoist exclaimed, his excitement palpable. “You’ve made me proud, both of you! It seems all my years of teaching haven’t gone to waste.”

Grinning, he grabbed one of the jars, uncorked it, and began drinking heartily.

“Where’s my daughter-in-law? Where’s my daughter-in-law?!”

 

Chapter 193 The First and Second Soldier

Upon hearing that his eldest brother and the others had returned from the imperial capital, Yun Yunyu rushed back from the mountains, his mind fixated on one concern—had his foolish son managed to lose his daughter-in-law?

“Father, Mo Xue is right here!”

Yun Yantian couldn’t help but laugh as he watched his father’s anxious expression.

“Haha! Good, good! You’ve finally done something right!”

Seeing his son supporting a slightly pale Baili Mo Xue, Yun Yunyu’s joy was palpable. Pushing Yun Yantian aside, he stepped forward to personally help his daughter-in-law. His cheerful expression quickly shifted to concern as he noticed her pallor.

“Mo Xue, why do you look so pale? Are you hurt?”

“Uncle Yunyu, it’s just a minor injury. I’ll recover after some rest,” Baili Mo Xue replied softly, her tone polite.

“Yantian, get over here!” Yun Yunyu’s voice turned stern as he shot a sharp glare at his son.

“Father, what is it now?” Yun Yantian hurried to his side, looking confused.

“How were you taking care of Mo Xue? How did she get hurt?”

“Well, I—”

“Uncle Yunyu, it wasn’t Yantian’s fault. I got careless and hurt myself,” Baili Mo Xue interjected quickly, trying to defuse the situation.

“Look at that! Even when she’s injured, she’s defending you. You’d better treat her well from now on! If I find out you’ve mistreated her, I’ll take my shoe and smack some sense into you!”

“Yes, Father, I understand!”

Scratching his head in embarrassment, Yun Yantian didn’t dare to argue and could only smile sheepishly.

“Come, Mo Xue. Let me help you back to rest. I’ll have someone bring you some supplements later to aid your recovery,” Yun Yunyu said, his tone softening as he supported her.

“Thank you, Uncle Yunyu.”

“We’re family now; there’s no need for thanks!” he said with a hearty laugh.

Baili Mo Xue’s cheeks flushed slightly, her face tinged with a faint red.

“Wen’er, what on earth happened to you?”

Yun Qinshi frowned as she looked at her son. His robes were torn and tattered, leaving him looking disheveled and unkempt.

“It’s nothing, Mother. My clothes got ripped accidentally. I’ll ask Brother Yanying to send me some new ones later,” Yun Yanshui said casually.

“This trip to the Hundred Clans Gathering must have been difficult. Take some time to rest. Don’t worry about the weapon workshop for now; your father and I will handle everything,” Yun Yunshan said, patting his son’s shoulder with a smile.

“Then I’ll head home first!”

Yun Yanshui grinned and turned to leave.

“Oh, by the way, Yandong’s child was born recently. The clan held a celebration banquet for the baby. Make sure to stop by and pay your respects,” Yun Yunshan added.

“Really? Is the child a spiritual root bearer?”

“Yes, the child was tested by Yunrui. She has a fourth-grade spiritual root.”

“Haha! I can’t believe that chubby Yandong is a father now!” Yun Yanshui laughed joyfully as he rushed toward his home.

After changing into fresh clothes, he took out a spiritual fruit from his collection, wrapped it carefully, and made his way to Yun Yandong’s house.

“How are things in the clan?”

After exchanging pleasantries with the clan members, Yun Yunyang led the family elders, including Yun Yunrui, to the ancestral hall to discuss the clan’s recent affairs.

“Everything in the clan has been normal.

“Additionally, Yandong’s child was born recently—a daughter with a fourth-grade spiritual root.

“Yunfeng and his team have begun cultivating a new field. They are currently diverting the Purple Mist Spirit Spring to irrigate it, transforming it into a spiritual field.

“Yunxun has also made progress with the incomplete alchemy recipes Shuang’er provided from the Pill Cauldron Sect.

“He’s successfully restored one of the recipes with the help of various texts and materials.

“The completed recipe has been stored in the library for future use. When Shuang’er or Xuan’er have time, they can study it and begin refining spirit pills.”

Yun Yunrui gave a concise summary of recent developments.

“And the marketplace?” Yun Yunyang asked.

“The marketplace is running smoothly. No major issues have arisen. However…”

“However, what?”

“There have been incidents of people deliberately causing trouble at Ling’er’s shop.”

“Were you able to determine who was behind it?”

“We’re not sure. The troublemakers were mostly nameless rogue cultivators.”

“Rogue cultivators?”

“Yes.”

“If they were mere rogue cultivators, it’s unlikely they would target our family’s shop without reason.”

“Do you think someone is secretly manipulating them to cause trouble for us?”

“It’s hard to say. We’ll need to investigate further to uncover the truth,” Yun Yunrui said thoughtfully.

“Very well. I’ll have someone look into it discreetly,” Yun Yunyang replied.

“Grandfather.”

In a flash, Yun Wenxuan appeared in the ancestral hall, bowing respectfully before Yun Yunyang.

“Have you been diligent in your studies?”

“Hehe, I’ve been working hard!”

“Good.”

“Grandfather, I have something important to report.”

“What is it?”

“Today, a group of people caused trouble at my parents’ shop. Mother investigated and discovered that the Su family was behind it,” Yun Wenxuan explained succinctly.

“I see.”

Yun Yunyang had only just discussed investigating the rogue cultivators who had been stirring up trouble at the Yun family’s shop. He hadn’t expected his daughter to uncover the mastermind so quickly.

“So, it was the Su family of Lanlin County pulling the strings,” Yun Yunyang muttered, his brows furrowing.

“We have no enmity with the Su family. Why would they target our shop?”

“Grandfather, Mother also suspects that the Su family may have the support of the Yulin Wang Clan,” Yun Wenxuan added.

“The Wang Clan?”

“If the Wang Clan is backing the Su family, then their motives for targeting us make sense,” Yun Yunrui said, nodding in realization.

“Not only has the Su family risen rapidly this past year, but they also now have four spiritual root cultivators.

“Furthermore, two rogue cultivators support them in secret, although their strength remains unknown.

“Mother learned of these details and suspected the Wang Clan’s involvement,” Yun Wenxuan explained.

“Brother Yunyang, are we going to take action against the Su family?” Yun Yunrui asked.

“For now, I’ll try to contact them and see if we can ease tensions and find a path for cooperation. Working together is far better than open conflict,” Yun Yunyang said after a moment of thought.

“However, if the Su family refuses to see reason, then we’ll have no choice but to eliminate them.

“It would be a fitting opportunity to support the two Sun brothers who’ve pledged loyalty to our family. We could help them rebuild the Sun family and reclaim Lanlin County,” he continued calmly.

His plan was clear: first diplomacy, then force, if necessary.

“If the Su family truly has the Wang Clan backing them, they might not be willing to cooperate with us,” Yun Yunrui pointed out.

“Then we fight. No need for further discussion,” Yun Yunyang replied firmly.

“But the Wang Clan likely won’t stand idly by,” Yun Yunrui cautioned.

“The Wang Clan fears the old Daoist’s presence. What can they do?”

“Haha! You’re right, Brother Yunyang,” Yun Yunrui said, his concerns fading with a chuckle.

“Prepare some gifts. Later, we’ll personally visit the Su family and see where they stand,” Yun Yunyang instructed.

“I’ll handle it immediately,” Yun Yunrui replied.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky a deep crimson, Yun Yanshui reclined lazily in the shade of a tree, sipping tea and cradling his Golden-Eyed Beast.

“Brother, I heard you went to see Brother Yandong’s child. How was it?”

“Haha! It’s a girl, and she’s absolutely adorable!”

“What’s her name?”

“Wenxin.”

“Yun Wenxin? That’s a lovely name,” Yun Yanshuang said with a smile.

“Oh, by the way, these are the things I took from Xia Changqing and those two rogue cultivators,” Yun Yanshui said, placing three storage pouches on the table.

“I checked through them. Nothing special—just spirit stones, talismans, spiritual artifacts, and a few manuals.

“The only thing remotely interesting is this incomplete Beast-Taming Technique,” he added.

“A Beast-Taming Technique?” Yun Yanshuang said, picking up the aged, yellowed manual and flipping through it carefully.

“Could it be the technique used to control those demon beasts that ambushed us?”

“Most likely.”

“This technique is unique. It should be stored in the family library for future spiritual root cultivators to study.

“If someone masters it, they could control a significant number of beasts. It would be a great asset,” Yun Yanshuang suggested.

“Before anyone studies it, we need to understand it fully. Since it’s an incomplete technique, we have to make sure it doesn’t pose risks to the cultivator or cause unforeseen harm,” Yun Yanshui cautioned.

“Don’t worry. I’ll examine it thoroughly,” Yun Yanshuang assured him.

“What I still can’t get over is that bronze mirror shard in the Emperor’s possession,” Yun Yanshui said, changing the subject.

“Indeed. Who would have thought that the shard was sealing such a terrifying creature?” Yun Yanshuang sighed, recalling Baili Xi’s explanation about the mirror shard.

“The bronze mirror holds so many mysteries. For now, all I know is that its spirit fruits have miraculous effects, and its scattered shards serve as seals.

“Even the Emperor said the entities sealed within the shards are not of this world.

“That means the bronze mirror itself is not of this world either,” Yun Yanshui said quietly, his thoughts drifting.

The more he learned about the mirror, the heavier its secrets seemed to grow.

He couldn’t help but wonder—would he live long enough to uncover all the truths hidden within its mysterious surface?

 

Chapter 194 Disappointing

Imperial Capital, Royal Palace.

“Failed?”

The Crown Princess frowned as she received the report, her expression darkening.

“Yes. The family discovered that Li Qing successfully escorted the Seventh Princess and the others back to the Yun family in Yun Cang,” the messenger reported cautiously.

“The family didn’t send more people after them?”

Her tone turned colder, a storm brewing in her eyes.

“The Emperor uncovered the matter. With the family left without its patriarch to hold them steady, they’ve been secretly suppressed by the Emperor’s hand. They dare not act recklessly anymore.”

“Useless fools!”

The Crown Princess slammed her hand against the table, her fury barely contained.

“The Emperor is here!”

Before her rage could erupt further, a eunuch’s shrill announcement echoed through the hall.

The Crown Princess’s face changed immediately. She rose, composing herself, and hurriedly led her attendants to kneel at the door.

“Your servant greets His Majesty. Long live the Emperor!”

Bailey Xi entered the hall, accompanied by Li Qing, and ascended to the throne. For a moment, the room was silent as the Emperor sipped his tea, his cold gaze fixed on the kneeling Crown Princess.

“Do you know your crime?”

The Emperor’s voice was calm, but there was a deadly edge beneath the surface.

“Your servant does not know what crime I have committed,” the Crown Princess said carefully, her face betraying no emotion. She feigned ignorance, certain the Emperor couldn’t trace the matter back to her.

“The Tongshan Xia Clan has confessed everything.”

The Emperor’s words struck like a thunderclap, but the Crown Princess held her composure, maintaining her air of innocence.

“I still don’t understand what Your Majesty is referring to,” she replied.

“You’re Xue’er’s biological mother. I truly didn’t wish to take action against you, but your behavior has sorely disappointed me,” the Emperor said, his voice growing heavier.

“Do you really think I can’t uncover the truth? Do you think I don’t know you were behind it all?”

“Tongshan Xia’s attempt to eliminate Yun Yantian could have been ignored. For their past service in defending the royal family, I might have overlooked it.

“You wanting Yun Yantian dead? I could have turned a blind eye.

“But you made one unforgivable mistake—ordering your nephew, Xia Changqing, to kill Xue’er as well!”

“Xue’er is your own daughter! Even a tiger does not eat its cubs, yet you, a mother, sought her death?

“To elevate the Xia family, you were willing to sacrifice your own child?!”

The Emperor’s voice rose in fury as he stood, his eyes blazing with anger as he stared at the Crown Princess.

“How could you be so heartless? For the Xia family’s ambitions, you would go so far?”

For a moment, the hall was silent. Then, slowly, the Crown Princess rose to her feet. She met the Emperor’s glare with a cold smile.

“Since Your Majesty has uncovered the truth, there’s nothing more to say.”

“So you admit your guilt?”

“What if I do?” the Crown Princess said with a bitter laugh. “Xue’er is my daughter. If I want her to live, she lives. If I want her to die, she dies.

“She defied me. She insisted on marrying into the Yun family, to that insignificant Yun Yantian.

“She left me no choice. I had to kill her.

“The only regret I have is that Xia Changqing and his men were incompetent and failed. Instead, they’ve brought me all this trouble!”

Her tone was chilling, devoid of any remorse. In her eyes, everything she did was justified for the sake of her family’s rise.

Even sacrificing Baili Moxue was, in her mind, a necessary step.

“Madwoman! You’re a madwoman!”

The Emperor’s voice was filled with disgust as he stared at her, his disappointment cutting deeper than his anger.

“Yes, I’m mad!

“I’m mad enough to wish I could kill you too! If the royal family fell, my Xia family wouldn’t be in this predicament!

“You want to support the Yun family to check my Xia family’s power? Let me tell you—it won’t work!”

The Crown Princess’s voice grew shrill as she raged, her eyes red with fury. All her pent-up resentment and bitterness spilled out in that moment.

For years, she had sacrificed everything—her freedom, her will, even her humanity—for the sake of her family.

She was nothing more than a tool, controlled and manipulated, with no choices of her own.

The Emperor looked at her with a mixture of pity and contempt. Slowly, he sank back onto the throne, his energy seemingly drained.

With a weary wave of his hand, he signaled the waiting Imperial Guard outside.

The soldiers entered swiftly, binding the Crown Princess and dragging her away.

“Why can’t my Baili family be like the Yun family?”

The Emperor’s voice was barely audible, more to himself than anyone else.

In his mind, he couldn’t shake the image of his visit to the Yun family. He recalled the warmth, the unity, and the harmony he had seen among their members—a stark contrast to the bitterness and scheming within his own palace.

“Your Majesty, the human heart is the hardest thing to predict or control,” Li Qing said gently, his tone meant to comfort the Emperor.

“If my Baili family’s princes and princesses cannot stand together through honor and adversity, this house will inevitably fall apart.

“Our royal lineage, this kingdom… it will one day vanish into the annals of history,” Baili Xi said, his voice tinged with despair.

“Your Majesty need not worry so deeply. With the Seventh Princess, this dynasty will remain in the Baili family’s hands,” Li Qing assured him.

“I hope so,” Baili Xi sighed.

“How goes the matter of removing the spies planted by the Three Clans and the Seven Families?”

“According to reports, a group has already been purged,” Li Qing replied.

“Good.”

“Come, let us take a walk in the imperial gardens. A bit of fishing may lighten the heart,” Baili Xi said, rising from his throne with a sigh. With Li Qing at his side, he left the hall for a moment of respite.

Lanlin County, Su Family Manor.

Yun Yunyang and Yun Yunrui stepped out of their carriage and approached the grand gates of the Su family estate, accompanied by several Yun family elders.

“Halt!”

The Su family guards immediately blocked their path, spears crossed to bar entry.

“Please inform your masters that Yun Yunyang of the Yun Cang Yun family has come to pay a visit,” Yun Yunyang said calmly.

“The Yun Cang Yun family?”

The guards exchanged uneasy glances, knowing full well that the Yun family had become a formidable cultivation clan in recent years. They dared not be careless.

“Please wait here while I inform the masters,” one guard said, bowing respectfully before hurrying inside.

Inside the Su family’s inner courtyard.

Su Yinglong, dressed in a luxurious robe, sat in discussion with several family elders when the news arrived.

“Beaten?” Su Yinglong frowned as the report was delivered.

“Yes. The rogue cultivators we secretly sent to disrupt the Yun family’s shop were thoroughly thrashed by their spiritual root descendant, Yun Wenxuan.

“Not only that, the Yun family seized all the spirit stones from those cultivators.

“And now, the Yun family has come to our gates, demanding an explanation,” the elder reported.

“Hmph! An explanation?” Su Yinglong scoffed. “For a mere Embryo Breath Second Stage rogue cultivator, does my Su family owe anyone an explanation?”

“Then… what should we do?”

“Did the rogue cultivator reveal anything to the Yun family?”

“He swore he didn’t.”

“Then have Yun’er deal with him. Make sure there’s no trail leading back to us.”

A cold glint flashed in Su Yinglong’s eyes as he issued the command.

“Yes, Clan Leader.”

The elder departed quickly.

“Clan Leader, Yun Yunyang of the Yun Cang Yun family has arrived to pay his respects,” the guard reported upon reaching the inner courtyard.

“Why would the Yun family suddenly visit us?” Su Yinglong muttered, his brows furrowing in suspicion.

Over the past year, with the Wang family’s secret support, the Su family had managed to expand rapidly, swallowing up several other fledgling families in Lanlin County.

But even with their newfound strength, they couldn’t compare to the Yun family’s deep foundation and swift rise.

Su Yinglong was reluctant to provoke the Yun family, but he couldn’t let his anxiety show.

“Never mind. We’d have to deal with them eventually. Since they’ve come, let’s see what they want,” he said after a moment of thought.

He waved the guard away and gathered the family elders to meet their guests in the clan’s reception hall.

“Clan Leader, Yun’er has dealt with the rogue cultivator who caused the trouble,” the elder reported as they made their way to the hall.

“Good,” Su Yinglong said with a nod. “Have Yun’er join us in the reception hall. Let him meet the Yun family representatives.”

“Understood.”

Su Family Reception Hall.

Led by Su family guards, Yun Yunyang and his entourage entered the grand hall. Su Yinglong, flanked by his elders, rose to greet them with a broad smile.

“Brother Yunyang, I’ve long heard of your reputation!” Su Yinglong said warmly, stepping forward before Yun Yunyang could even bow.

“The pleasure is mine, Brother Yinglong,” Yun Yunyang replied, returning the courtesy.

“It’s a great honor to have the esteemed Yun family visit our humble Su family. Truly, you’ve brought light to our home,” Su Yinglong said, his tone effusive.

“Come, Brother Yunyang, and all your esteemed companions, please take a seat.

“I knew you were coming, so I had my servants prepare tea and refreshments. Forgive the simplicity of our offerings; our resources are far humbler compared to your family’s,” he said, gesturing for them to sit.

 

Chapter 195: Recognize the Thief as Your Father

“You flatter me, Brother Yinglong,” Yun Yunyang said with a polite smile. “It’s we who should apologize for disturbing you with a visit at this hour.”

He gestured for his clansmen to take seats around the hall before continuing, “We’ve long heard of your esteemed family’s rise to becoming a new cultivation clan. It is a great accomplishment.

“As a token of our respect, we’ve brought some spirit stones and spirit pills as gifts. Please, Brother Yinglong, do accept them.”

“Brother Yunyang, you’re far too generous!”

Su Yinglong laughed heartily, making no move to refuse the offering. Though the number of spirit stones and pills was modest, for the Su family, it was a welcome addition to their coffers.

Yun Yunyang’s expression turned serious as he moved to the true purpose of the visit.

“Our visit has two purposes: first, to pay our respects to your family, and second, to discuss fostering a harmonious relationship between our clans. Cooperation benefits us both.”

Su Yinglong’s sharp mind caught the underlying tone of Yun Yunyang’s words. The Yun family patriarch was alluding to the Su family’s recent meddling with rogue cultivators causing trouble at Yun family properties.

It was a subtle yet unmistakable warning—back off, or tensions would escalate, benefiting no one.

“Of course, of course! We’ve long admired the prosperity of your esteemed family. It is only natural for us to seek harmony and collaboration,” Su Yinglong replied smoothly, his words laced with diplomacy.

Yun Yunyang nodded, his eyes glinting as he pressed further. “Your family’s rapid growth is truly remarkable. In just a year, you’ve nurtured four spiritual root descendants and even secured the presence of two rogue cultivators to guard your clan. It surpasses what my Yun family could achieve in such a short time.”

“Ah, merely luck!” Su Yinglong replied modestly, though his expression betrayed a flicker of unease.

“Much of our success comes from the spiritual resources left behind by the Sun family. As for the two seniors residing with us, they are unnamed rogue cultivators who chose to stay, attracted by our family’s fortuitous destiny.”

It was a well-rehearsed response, designed to deflect suspicion and keep the Wang family’s involvement hidden. The Wang family had repeatedly warned Su Yinglong never to reveal their support, and Su Yinglong dared not disobey.

Yun Yunyang smiled faintly, appearing to accept the explanation. But inwardly, he was more certain than ever—the Wang family was behind the Su family’s rise, and the two rogue cultivators were undoubtedly Wang family agents.

“Godfather!”

The conversation was interrupted by the arrival of a young man clad in a pristine white robe. His features were handsome and refined, but what caught Yun Yunyang’s attention was the uncanny resemblance between this youth and the Sun brothers now residing with the Yun family.

The boy must be the Sun family’s spiritual root descendant, taken in by the Su family, given their name, and added to their lineage, Yun Yunyang mused.

“Ah, Yun’er! Come, meet Brother Yunyang!” Su Yinglong greeted warmly, waving the youth forward.

The young man approached Yun Yunyang and bowed respectfully. “Junior Su Shengyun greets Uncle Yunyang.”

“No need for such formalities,” Yun Yunyang said with a cordial smile. Then, his tone shifted subtly. “Do you know Fenglin and Fengxuan? They are brothers, now residing with my family.”

Su Shengyun’s brow furrowed slightly, but he quickly masked his discomfort. “No, I don’t know them.”

“Ah, I see. Your resemblance to them is striking. I thought you might be acquainted,” Yun Yunyang said with a faint smile.

Beside him, Su Yinglong’s expression darkened.

“Brother Yunyang, the Sun family is long gone. Those two are little more than stray dogs who sought refuge with your esteemed family.

“Surely, they’re not worth mentioning?” Su Yinglong’s tone carried a sharp edge.

“Of course, Brother Yinglong. I merely brought it up in passing,” Yun Yunyang replied smoothly, rising from his seat. “It’s getting late. We won’t impose on your hospitality any longer.”

With a polite bow, he signaled his companions, and they departed without another word.

As Su Yinglong watched Yun Yunyang’s group disappear down the path, his calm facade cracked.

“Yun Yunyang! What arrogance!”

With a roar, he slammed his teacup onto the table, shattering it into fragments as tea splashed across the floor.

Su Shengyun, hailed as the strongest spiritual root descendant of the Su family, was a figure whose past was shrouded in controversy.

Originally a member of the now-destroyed Sun family of Lanlin, he had been taken in by Su Yinglong after the Sun family’s fall. Su Yinglong had adopted him as his godson, added him to the Su family registry, and even elevated him to the status of a direct descendant.

This decision had sparked significant dissent among Su family members, and Su Shengyun’s origins had since become a taboo topic within the family.

Yet Yun Yunyang had deliberately brought up the Sun family, subtly reminding Su Shengyun of his roots. It was a calculated move, a way to plant seeds of doubt and discontent, urging the young man to reconsider his place in the Su family.

Su Yinglong’s face had darkened at the veiled provocation. He understood the implications: Yun Yunyang was subtly encouraging Su Shengyun to abandon the Su family.

A direct descendant not of Su blood? For any family with a proud lineage, this was a difficult concept to swallow.

“Godfather, shall I kill Yun Yunyang?”

Su Shengyun’s tone was cold as he bowed deeply, his words laced with resolve.

“Don’t act rashly,” Su Yinglong said, waving a hand to dismiss the idea. “Killing Yun Yunyang won’t benefit our family in any way. We’ll deal with him when the time is right—once our family has grown strong enough to challenge the Yun clan.”

“I understand,” Su Shengyun replied, his tone deferential.

He was keenly aware of his precarious position within the Su family. Though adopted and granted the status of a direct descendant, many in the family still viewed him as an outsider.

Determined to prove his worth, Su Shengyun had spent the past year cultivating with relentless dedication. He followed Su Yinglong’s every command without question, hoping to earn the patriarch’s trust and solidify his place within the family.

And to Su Yinglong’s credit, he had indeed treated Su Shengyun as if he were his own blood. The cultivation resources sent by the Wang family had been distributed generously to Su Shengyun, far surpassing the allotments given to the Su family’s other spiritual root descendants.

“Enough. Everyone is dismissed,” Su Yinglong said, waving the family elders out of the hall.

As the room emptied, he muttered bitterly, “That Yun Yunyang! He ruined my mood entirely.”

Back in the carriage, Yun Yunrui burst into laughter, recalling the tense exchange at the Su family’s hall.

“That Su Yinglong nearly turned green with anger from your words, Brother Yunyang. And yet, he didn’t dare say a thing!”

“I merely spoke the truth,” Yun Yunyang replied with a chuckle.

“Ah, the truth indeed! But for someone like Su Yinglong, the truth stings more than any insult,” Yun Yunrui said, shaking his head.

“His ability to remain calm under pressure is far inferior to Brother Tianming’s. With Su Yinglong leading them, the Su family won’t last long,” Yun Yunyang said thoughtfully.

“Exactly. Especially since he foolishly elevated a descendant of the Sun family to the status of a Su family direct descendant.

“I’m sure many within the Su family are deeply dissatisfied with his decision.”

“Dissatisfied? More like outright resentful,” Yun Yunrui said with a grin.

“The day the Su family’s other three spiritual root descendants grow into their power, there’s bound to be internal conflict.

“And if Su Yinglong fails to maintain balance, the Su family will follow the Sun family’s footsteps into ruin,” Yun Yunyang said, his tone calm yet foreboding.

“But from what I saw, Su Shengyun seems perfectly content in the Su family. He’s loyal to Su Yinglong and unlikely to stir up trouble,” Yun Yunrui noted.

“Ah, the mindset of someone who would rather be the head of a chicken than the tail of a phoenix,” Yun Yunyang said with a faint smile.

“In the Sun family, Sun Fenglin and Sun Fengxuan were the ones groomed as heirs. Su Shengyun, as a mere branch family member, was overlooked.

“Now, in the Su family, he’s a direct descendant, favored by Su Yinglong. Why would he abandon such privilege to return to a ruined legacy?

“Besides, the Sun family is no more.

“Even if the Sun brothers are now with our Yun family, if you were Su Shengyun, would you prefer to be someone’s dog or to live as a dignified member of a cultivation clan?”

“And whether or not the Su family eventually descends into chaos isn’t something Su Shengyun alone can decide,” Yun Yunyang concluded.

“Haha! Well said, Brother Yunyang,” Yun Yunrui said, nodding in agreement.

The two continued to discuss as the carriage made its way back to Yuncang, leaving behind the seeds of unease they had sown within the Su family.

 

Chapter 196 Confused

“Father, uncles, what brings you here?”

Yun Yanling was busy arranging a new batch of talismans sent by the family, preparing them for sale, when she saw her father and several of the family elders enter the shop.

“We came to check on the shop and the market’s operations,” Yun Yunyang replied with a smile.

“Father-in-law, uncles, please, come to the inner courtyard and rest for a bit,” Qin Zhan said warmly, immediately instructing the shop attendants to prepare tea and refreshments.

Accompanied by Yun Yanling and Qin Zhan, the group made their way to the inner courtyard and settled in comfortably.

“The Su family secretly sent people to cause trouble. I went to investigate,” Yun Yunyang began after taking a sip of tea.

“Did they admit to it?” Yun Yanling asked.

“Of course not. The Su family wouldn’t confess to such a thing so easily. Most likely, they’ve already dealt with the rogue cultivators privately to silence them,” Yun Yunyang replied with a faint smile.

“Did you find any evidence of the Wang family’s support behind the Su family?” she pressed further.

“I tested Su Yinglong. Though he was evasive, it’s clear enough—there’s no doubt the Wang family is backing them,” Yun Yunyang said, his expression hardening.

“What are your plans for dealing with the Su family?” Yun Yanling asked after a moment of thought.

“The Su family won’t willingly coexist peacefully with us, especially with the Wang family’s support. It’s simply not possible,” Yun Yunyang replied calmly, a glint of cold determination in his eyes.

“So, you plan to deal with them in secret?”

“Exactly. The Wang family wants to use the Su family to balance against us. But I, Yun Yunyang, will not let them have their way.”

His tone was firm, the steel in his voice leaving no room for doubt.

For the Yun family, there was no turning back. Having chosen the path of cultivation and ambition, they could only forge ahead. Any hesitation, any retreat, would mean falling into the abyss.

The memory of the Sun family’s downfall—its assets devoured by the clans of Lanlin—remained vivid in Yun Yunyang’s mind. He would never allow the Yun family to follow that same tragic path.

“We should send Shuang’er and Yantian to deal with this matter,” Yun Yunrui suggested from the side.

“There’s no need to trouble them with this,” Yun Yunyang replied, shaking his head with a smile.

“Then what’s your plan, Brother Yunyang?” Yun Yunrui asked, curious about his cousin’s alternative approach.

“Call for Fenglin and Fengxuan. I have some things I’d like to discuss with them.”

Yun Yanling immediately turned to a shop attendant. “Go find Sun Fenglin and Sun Fengxuan. Tell them to come here at once.”

“Yes, ma’am,” the attendant replied respectfully, hurrying off.

About fifteen minutes later, two figures leaped into the shop’s courtyard. They spotted Yun Yunyang and immediately bowed deeply.

“Fenglin and Fengxuan greet Uncle Yunyang and all the uncles present!”

“Take a seat. No need to stand in the ceremony,” Yun Yunyang said with a smile.

“Thank you, Uncle Yunyang,” the brothers replied, sitting down cautiously. Though they were told to relax, they couldn’t shake the sense of formality; after all, they were living under the Yun family’s protection.

The two brothers were curious about why Yun Yunyang had summoned them so suddenly.

“Earlier, your uncles and I visited the Su family,” Yun Yunyang began, sipping his tea before continuing. “We also met Su Shengyun.”

At the mention of Su Shengyun, the Sun brothers stiffened.

After the collapse of their family, the Sun clan’s members had either perished or scattered. The proud Sun family of Lanlin was no more, and the brothers had sought refuge under the Yun family’s wing, managing a cultivation market under their protection.

Though they had little information about the fate of their surviving kin, they had heard rumors. They knew the Su family had devoured much of the Sun family’s wealth and enslaved many of its people, reducing them to a life of suffering and servitude.

The mere thought of Su Shengyun—who had abandoned his roots to become a direct descendant of the Su family—was enough to stir complicated emotions.

As Yun Yunyang continued, his gaze sharpened. “That Su Shengyun, now hailed as the Su family’s strongest spiritual root descendant, was once your nephew—the fourth spiritual root child of the Sun family.”

The mention of Su Shengyun made Sun Fenglin and Sun Fengxuan tense, their expressions darkening.

They had long known of Su Shengyun’s decision to abandon his heritage, pledging loyalty to the Su family and serving them without hesitation. To the brothers, it was an unbearable betrayal—a bitter reminder of their family’s fall.

“He chose to forget his roots, willingly becoming a tool for the Su family,” Yun Yunyang said, his tone calm but carrying a weight that pressed upon the brothers’ hearts.

“I was a friend of your father, Tianming. The Sun family was once an ally of the Yun family,” Yun Yunyang continued.

“The collapse of your family—its internal strife and downfall—was a tragedy that shocked many.

“But you both know full well what the Su family has done to your kin. You’ve heard the whispers of how they enslaved your relatives, treating them like beasts, squeezing every ounce of value from them.”

Sun Fenglin’s expression remained composed, but there was a subtle shift in his eyes.

“Uncle Yunyang,” Sun Fenglin began carefully, “my brother and I have severed our ties with the Sun family. We swore an oath to never return.

“What happens to the remnants of the Sun family is no longer our concern.”

Though spoken calmly, his words carried a heavy resignation.

Yun Yunyang’s face turned cold.

“I had thought you, Sun Fenglin, were a man of ambition.

“It seems I misjudged you.”

Sun Fenglin froze at Yun Yunyang’s rebuke, his calm demeanor breaking. Hastily, he stood and bowed deeply.

“Uncle Yunyang, I have erred. I beg your forgiveness!”

“If your father were alive to see the two of you now—apathetic, aimless, unwilling to act even as your kin suffer under the Su family’s tyranny—do you think he would be at peace?

“Do you think Tianming would have dreamed of his sons abandoning the Sun family’s legacy and allowing their people to wallow in misery?”

Yun Yunyang’s words were sharp, cutting through the air like a blade.

“If I were in your shoes, I would have torn down the Su family by now. I would have rescued every enslaved member of my clan and rebuilt the Sun family to its former glory.

“Your father’s greatest wish was to see the Sun family rise to prominence. Do you not share that same desire? Do you not wish to honor his memory?”

Sun Fenglin and Sun Fengxuan fell silent, Yun Yunyang’s words echoing in their minds. Shame crept into their expressions, their heads lowered in guilt.

After a long pause, they exchanged a glance, a silent understanding passing between them.

Then, as one, they knelt before Yun Yunyang, bowing their heads to the ground.

“Uncle Yunyang, we beg for your aid,” Sun Fenglin said, his voice steady but resolute.

“Help us restore the Sun family to its former glory. If you grant us this chance, we pledge our eternal loyalty to the Yun family.”

“Rise,” Yun Yunyang said, his tone softening. He stood and helped the brothers to their feet.

“Talk of servitude is unnecessary. I was your father’s friend, and as his friend, I will help you stand tall once more.”

He paused, his expression thoughtful.

“For now, maintain your positions in the Yun family and continue managing the market. When the time is right, you may approach Su Shengyun in private. Do nothing more than establish contact. Let events unfold naturally.”

“Do you mean to avoid direct confrontation with the Su family?” Sun Fenglin asked, his voice tinged with curiosity.

“The Su family has the Wang family’s support. Facing them head-on is unwise.

“To destroy the Su family, we must let them collapse from within.

“Your nephew, Su Shengyun, may very well become the spark that ignites their downfall.”

Sun Fenglin bowed deeply. “Thank you for your guidance, Uncle Yunyang. I understand now.”

“Good. You’re dismissed. Rest and prepare yourselves,” Yun Yunyang said, waving them off.

“Uncle Yunyang, we’ll take our leave,” the brothers said in unison, bowing before departing.

As they left, Yun Yanling turned to her father, her brow furrowed.

“Father, are you sure about helping those two? What if they harbor ill intentions?”

Before Yun Yunyang could respond, Yun Yunrui chuckled.

“Ling’er, your father wouldn’t make such a decision without considering every possibility. If he’s willing to help them, it means he’s already accounted for any risks.”

Yun Yanling nodded slowly, acknowledging the truth in her uncle’s words.

“Are there any unmarried daughters within the clan?” Yun Yunyang suddenly asked, a glint of calculation in his eyes.

“Brother Yunyu and Brother Yunlan each have an unmarried daughter,” Yun Yunrui replied.

“Inform them of the situation. Have them prepare to accept Sun Fenglin and Sun Fengxuan as sons-in-law,” Yun Yunyang said decisively.

Yun Yunrui grinned. “Understood. I’ll handle it as soon as we return to the clan.”

“Ling’er, Zhan’er,” Yun Yunyang said, turning to his daughter and son-in-law. “The family shop is in your hands. Continue your hard work.”

“Father, you can count on us,” Yun Yanling replied confidently.

“Good. Your uncles and I will return to the clan. There’s still much to do.”

With that, Yun Yunyang and the other elders departed, leaving the courtyard quiet once more.

 

Chapter 197 Why Keep You Here?

“Big Sister Baili, how are your injuries?”

Yun Yanshui strolled into the courtyard with his younger sister, Yun Yanshuang, carrying a few gifts. He spotted his elder brother, Yun Yantian, helping Baili Moxue to a seat. With his usual carefree demeanor, he made his way over.

“Much better,” Baili Moxue replied with a soft smile.

Thanks to the numerous elixirs and nourishing supplements provided by the Yun family, her pale complexion had greatly improved. Her cheeks now glowed with a healthy flush, evidence of her recovery.

“That’s good to hear.”

Yun Yanshui set the gifts down and casually plopped into a seat by the stone table. His gaze shifted mischievously between the couple. “So, Brother Yantian, Big Sister Baili—when’s the wedding? Got a date in mind?”

“By the end of the year,” Yun Yantian replied with a laugh.

“That’s soon! Less than half a month away,” Yun Yanshui exclaimed, clapping his hands.

“Haha! That’s right,” Yun Yantian affirmed.

“Great! Guess I’ll have to start calling you Sister-in-law, huh?” Yun Yanshui teased, clearly delighted by the thought.

He couldn’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction seeing the two of them together. Their journey hadn’t been easy, with interference from the Crown Princess and attempts from the Tongshan Xia clan to tear them apart. Yet, through their resilience and unwavering commitment to each other, they had finally found happiness.

“What’s that you’re wearing around your neck, Big Sister Baili?”

Yun Yanshui’s attention was caught by the small shard of a bronze mirror hanging from Baili Moxue’s neck.

“Oh, this?” she said, holding up the piece. “It’s something my father gave me. He said it’s an heirloom left by one of my ancestors and told me to keep it safe.”

“I see…” Yun Yanshui muttered, his interest piqued.

The shard of the ancient bronze mirror was a tantalizing object. Though he was tempted to study it further and uncover its secrets, he reminded himself that it was a gift from Baili Xi to Baili Moxue—a personal keepsake. He decided not to press the matter.

“It’s beautiful,” Yun Yanshuang remarked, her tone light yet purposeful. She had noticed her brother’s fascination with the mirror shard and decided to try her luck.

“It is,” Baili Moxue agreed, a hint of melancholy crossing her features. “But for my ancestor, it was a cursed object. This shard brought them great suffering.”

Baili Moxue gently ran her fingers along the shard, her expression contemplative.

“I’ve been thinking of getting rid of it. Even though my father said it’s the only relic left by my ancestor, I can’t shake the thought of the harm it caused them. It doesn’t feel right to keep it close.”

With a decisive motion, she pulled the shard from her neck and held it in her hand, her gaze cold.

“It’s such a shame to throw away something so beautiful,” Yun Yanshuang said with a sly grin.

“You seem to like it,” Baili Moxue observed, catching the underlying intent in her tone.

“Hehe! I do! It’s not every day you see such a lovely shard,” Yun Yanshuang said, leaning closer with an innocent smile.

“But it’s a cursed object,” Baili Moxue cautioned, her brows knitting with concern. “I’d feel awful if anything happened to you because of it.”

“If it’s from you, it can’t possibly bring harm,” Yun Yanshuang replied confidently. “Besides, I’m sure I can handle any ill effects it might carry!”

Baili Moxue hesitated for a moment before chuckling softly. “Alright. If you truly want it, I’ll give it to you. But promise me this—if it ever shows signs of being dangerous, you must get rid of it immediately.”

“Of course! Thank you, Big Sister Baili. I promise I’ll be careful,” Yun Yanshuang said gleefully, holding the shard with both hands as though it were a treasure. Her cheeks flushed with excitement as she admired its intricate design.

Yun Yanshui watched the exchange with thinly veiled envy but kept his composure.

“Well, Brother Yantian, Big Sister Baili, we’ll leave you two lovebirds alone. You’ve got some bonding to do,” he said, rising abruptly and pulling his sister along.

“Let’s go, Shuang’er. We have business at the forge.”

As the siblings left in a rush, Yun Yantian couldn’t help but laugh. “Yanshui’s personality hasn’t changed one bit. He’s still as carefree as ever.”

“Having a younger brother like that keeps life interesting, doesn’t it?” Baili Moxue said with a gentle smile.

“True enough,” Yun Yantian agreed with a chuckle. “Still, I wish he’d settle down. He refuses to marry, and our fourth uncle doesn’t seem to care. We can only let him be.”

“Marriage is a personal choice,” Baili Moxue said thoughtfully. “It shouldn’t be forced.”

“You’re right, my dear,” Yun Yantian said, grinning. “You always know best.”

“You’re getting cheeky,” Baili Moxue teased with a playful glare.

“Haha! Let’s take a walk to the spirit fields in the back hills. I’d like to see how Wenyu and Wenrun are doing with cultivating the Purple Jade Bamboo.”

Taking her hand, Yun Yantian led Baili Moxue away, their laughter echoing through the quiet courtyard.

“Do you have the shard?”

In a secluded corner of the Yun estate, Yun Yanshui’s excitement was impossible to miss as he turned to his sister.

“Look at you,” Yun Yanshuang teased, holding up the shard. “Here, take it!”

Seeing her brother’s barely-contained excitement, Yun Yanshuang couldn’t help but laugh. With a playful grin, she handed over the shard of the bronze mirror.

“I’m heading home to check the bronze mirror,” Yun Yanshui declared, already turning toward the exit.

“You go handle the forge yourself,” he added, leaving no room for discussion.

“Fine, fine!” Yun Yanshuang shouted after him, clearly amused. “And while you’re at it, ask Mom to make spicy crab and lotus root stew for dinner. Use those spirit lotus roots that Yan Tian has been cultivating—they’ll make it taste even better!”

“Got it!” Yun Yanshui waved a hand in acknowledgment, disappearing around the corner in a flash.

The Cellar

Yun Yanshui quickly descended into the dimly lit cellar, the shard of the bronze mirror clutched tightly in his hand. As he approached the ancient mirror resting on the altar, an eerie glow began to emanate from its surface, faint but mesmerizing, like moonlight dancing on water.

At the same time, the shard in his hand started to tremble, as if alive. It quivered with an unseen force, yearning to escape his grasp and rejoin its source.

Suddenly, a terrified voice echoed in his mind.

“Don’t… don’t let the shard merge with the mirror!”

Startled, Yun Yanshui instinctively scanned his surroundings with his spiritual sense. Yet no matter how thoroughly he searched, he found no one nearby.

“Who’s there?” he demanded, his tone sharp.

The voice returned, desperate and pleading.

“I’m inside the shard! Please, I beg you—don’t let it merge with the mirror! If you do, I’ll die. I swear I’ll die!”

Yun Yanshui stared at the shard in his hand. As he looked closer, a figure emerged within its surface—a man dressed in black, his pale face contorted with fear.

“You… you’re the one who killed the imperial ancestor and the patriarchs of the Three Great Clans, aren’t you?” Yun Yanshui’s voice was calm, his expression unreadable.

“Yes! That’s me!” the figure admitted, his voice shaking. “But please, listen to me! If you don’t let the shard merge, I’ll swear loyalty to you! I’ll help you achieve immortality! With me by your side, no one in this world can stop you!”

“Do you really think I’d believe such nonsense?” Yun Yanshui scoffed.

He knew all too well the devastation this entity had wrought. The imperial ancestor’s life had been drained away year by year because of this creature. Now, trapped within the shard, it posed no immediate threat—and Yun Yanshui had no intention of releasing it.

“I’m telling the truth! Please, just give me a chance!” the figure cried out, his desperation mounting.

Yun Yanshui hesitated briefly, then smirked. “You want your freedom?”

“Yes! I’ll do anything—anything you ask!”

“Fine. Answer three questions honestly, and I’ll consider it.”

“Really? You’re not lying, are you?”

“What choice do you have if I am?” Yun Yanshui replied coldly.

The figure in the shard fell silent, then nodded reluctantly. “Alright. Ask your questions.”

“First question: What is the origin of this bronze mirror?”

“I… I don’t know!”

Yun Yanshui’s brows furrowed.

“I’m serious! I really don’t know!” the figure stammered, panic clear in his voice.

“Fine,” Yun Yanshui said after a moment, his tone icy. “Second question: What exactly are you?”

“I am a being from the Spirit World,” the figure confessed. “I was born from the essence of life and the hatred of the dead, feeding on their souls and grievances.”

“The Spirit World?” Yun Yanshui echoed, intrigued.

“Yes,” the figure confirmed. “It is a world beyond yours, one of countless realms in the vast cosmos. Your world is just one among many.”

Yun Yanshui’s eyes widened slightly as pieces of the puzzle began to fall into place. It made sense now why the imperial techniques of his world had little effect on this creature—it wasn’t of this world to begin with.

“Third question: How did you end up trapped in the mirror?”

“I… I don’t know,” the figure admitted again, his voice trembling.

“What? You don’t know?” Yun Yanshui snapped, his frustration boiling over. “What good are you to me if you don’t know anything?”

Before the figure could respond, Yun Yanshui’s temper got the better of him. With a flick of his wrist, he hurled the shard toward the altar, where the bronze mirror awaited.

“No! Stop!” the figure screamed, his voice filled with terror.

The shard soared through the air, trembling violently as it neared the mirror. The glow from the mirror intensified, its surface rippling like water. As the shard closed the distance, the air in the cellar seemed to freeze, and a low, otherworldly hum began to resonate.

Yun Yanshui’s heart raced as he watched the shard draw closer to its destined reunion.

 

Chapter 198: Ancient Devouring Soul

“Wait.”
Yun Yanshui suddenly remembered something. That entity from within the mirror came from the spiritual realm—it likely knew a great deal about many things.

Perhaps keeping it around might prove useful?!

“Hey! Old man, are you still there?”

He quickly strode to the offering table, cradling the ancient bronze mirror in his hands while shouting.

However, the bronze mirror remained as quiet as a stone, showing no reaction whatsoever.

“Ugh! I acted too rashly!”

Unwillingly, Yun Yanshui placed the bronze mirror back onto the offering table, letting out a deep sigh of frustration.

No sooner had his words fallen than a loud plop sounded from the previously silent bronze mirror. A book dropped out of the mirror and landed on the table.

The cover of the ancient book gleamed with black-gold hues, emanating an eerie, shadowy light.

Noticing the book that had fallen on the offering table, Yun Yanshui quickly picked it up and examined the grandiose characters scrawled across its cover: “The Ancient Devouring Spirit Manual.”

“Did the bronze mirror absorb the creature within it, producing this cultivation method in the process?”

He flipped through the pages and found the manual incomprehensible. Cultivating its teachings would likely be no easy task.

“I’ll hang on to this for now and study it later.”

Unable to make sense of the manual, Yun Yanshui silently cursed his younger self for not reading and learning more. For the moment, he tucked the manual into his robe, deciding to see if he could cultivate it in the future.

If not, he would pass it down to a spiritually gifted child within the clan.

Since the manual had emerged from the bronze mirror, it was undoubtedly a high-grade treasure.

Pulling his thoughts back to the present, Yun Yanshui left the cellar.

Unbeknownst to him, as soon as he turned his back and departed, the surface of the bronze mirror flickered.

A lingering image appeared in the reflection.

In it, a young man dressed in white robes stood with his hands clasped behind his back amidst a boundless starry sky.

Before the youth hovered the ancient bronze mirror, radiating a dazzling divine light.

In the opposite expanse of the starry void stood countless formidable beings: ancient celestial monsters, extraterrestrial demons, supreme immortals of the Dao, holy saints, merciful Buddhas, and many other mighty figures from various great worlds—all staring greedily at the bronze mirror.

Their gazes brimmed with insatiable desire and envy.

The scene shifted again, revealing the young man’s true face—sharp brows and bright eyes, his lips curling in a perpetual, disdainful smile. He exuded an aura of supreme authority, as though he stood above all creation, effortlessly controlling the life and death of everything beneath him.

And with that, the image abruptly vanished.

Had Yun Yanshui delayed his departure and caught a glimpse of this lingering image, he would have been utterly dumbfounded.

This was because the white-robed youth in the mirror’s reflection was identical to him in appearance!

“Mother, do you need help with anything?”

Exiting the cellar, Yun Yanshui headed to the kitchen, where he saw his mother busy preparing dinner.

The smell of spicy crab had already wafted through the air, making his stomach growl in anticipation.

Although he had reached the Qi Refinement stage and could sustain himself on spiritual energy from the heavens and earth, bypassing the need for mortal food, he still relished the taste of well-cooked meals. There was something uniquely satisfying about the feeling of a full stomach.

Especially when his mother’s cooking was involved—no matter how often he ate her dishes, he never grew tired of them.

Only a fool would willingly give up such flavors for bland spiritual sustenance!

“Just a moment ago, your cousin Yantian had Xia Wenyu bring over some spiritual lotus roots. Get a knife and peel them for me—cut them into small pieces for soup later.”

Yun Qinshi spoke as she busied herself steaming spiritual rice.

With the spiritual rice fields in the mountains flourishing more each season, the family could now distribute the grain to clan members. Eating it would enhance their physical strength and extend their lifespans.

“A regular kitchen knife won’t work on spiritual lotus roots, will it?”

“On the knife rack, your father had Xuan’er forge a simple spirit-weapon knife a while ago. Use that one to peel the roots.”

“Got it!”

Yun Yanshui cheerfully agreed, grabbing the spirit-weapon kitchen knife and heading outside to peel the lotus roots under the shade of a tree.

The discarded peels were tossed before the golden-eyed beast nearby, though it didn’t even bother giving them a glance.

“Yunyang Clan Brother, there’s news from the Tongshan Xia family.”

Yun Yunrui rushed into the ancestral hall, where Yun Yunyang was discussing plans for the clan’s future. He immediately reported what he had learned.

“What is it?”

Ever since the ambush, Yun Yunyang had been wary of the Tongshan Xia family making more covert moves against the Yun Cang Yun clan.

Indeed, over the past few days, Yun Yunyang had been secretly sending people to scout the areas under the control of the Tongshan Xia family, hoping to gather information about their movements.

Only by doing so could the Yun family prepare to counter any potential ambushes or schemes from the Xia clan.

“My men were sent to Tongshan City, and based on what they uncovered…”
“The Tongshan Xia family’s current situation is far from optimistic.”

“Oh? Elaborate.”

Yun Yunyang, Yun Yunlin, and the others perked up at this news.

Hearing that the Xia family was in dire straits was an incredible boon for the Yun clan!

“Apparently, ever since the Xia family’s patriarch perished on Mount Wanlong, their leadership has been in disarray.
No one has been able to take full control, and infighting has become rampant, with signs of an impending split within the family.

“Furthermore, the Emperor has been quietly pressuring them from behind the scenes, worsening their plight.
Notably, the Tongshan Xia family’s representative in the Eastern Palace, the imperial consort, was punished by the Emperor and sent to the Cold Palace.
Their network of spies and operatives within the court has also been systematically eradicated.
At present, they’ve lost all influence within the royal court!”

“Additionally, the younger generation of the Xia family lacks talent and cohesion. Ever since Xia Changqing disappeared, their internal struggles have only intensified, further exacerbating their disarray.”

“As it stands, the Xia family has lost favor with the royal court and is being suppressed by the Emperor.
Internally, they are weakened by the death of their patriarch and the disappearance of their most promising heir, Xia Changqing.
This has created cracks within the family, leading to division.

“Under such circumstances, the other three major families and six prominent clans have already begun covertly targeting the Xia family.
Many of the Xia family’s resources—such as markets, shops, spirit mines, and fields—are being forcibly seized by these factions through various underhanded means.”

Yun Yunrui succinctly summarized the intelligence gathered over the past few days, sharing it with Yun Yunyang, Yun Yunlin, and the other family members present.

“No wonder the Xia family hasn’t sent anyone to attack us since the ambush.
It turns out they’re dealing with internal and external crises of their own!”

Yun Yunyang nodded in realization, letting out a breath of relief.

As long as the Xia family was unable to target the Yun clan, they would have ample time to focus on their growth and development.

“At this rate, the Xia family is nearing their downfall!”

Yun Yunlin chuckled heartily, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction.

Ever since learning that his cousin Yunyang and three of their younger family members had nearly been killed by assassins secretly arranged by the Xia clan, he had harbored nothing but resentment toward them.

“Anyone who harms our kin deserves nothing less than death!”

“If the Xia family cannot produce someone capable of stabilizing their internal situation, with the combined pressure from the three families, six clans, and the Emperor himself, their destruction is inevitable,” Yun Yunyang said calmly.

“Brother Yunyang, since the other three families and six clans are already making their moves to seize the Xia family’s resources, why don’t we take this opportunity to do the same?”

“Our family is still in the developmental stage. We lack the foundation that the three families and six clans possess. It’s best not to get involved in these murky waters. Stability must remain our priority. Acting too aggressively could lead us to the same fate as the Lanlin Sun clan of the past.”

Yun Yunyang shook his head, rejecting the idea of imitating the other factions by seizing Xia family resources.

The mention of the Lanlin Sun clan sent a chill through the room, sobering Yun Yunlin and the other core members of the Yun clan.

Indeed, the Sun clan’s downfall had been the result of Sun Tianming’s overzealous ambition to rapidly elevate his family’s status, leading to a series of disastrous decisions.

“Moreover, if we are to act, we must wait for more information and carefully assess the situation before making any moves,” Yun Yunyang continued.

He was a cautious man who never acted rashly. Without sufficient information or the right timing, he was not one to make hasty decisions.

For the next several days, life in the Yun clan estate remained peaceful as usual.

During this time, Yun Yunyang continued sending scouts to Tongshan County to gather more intelligence on the Xia family’s situation.

It wasn’t until several days later—

“Brother Yunyang, someone from the Wang family has arrived!”

A Yun clansman hurried into the ancestral hall, bowing respectfully as he reported the news.

“What business does the Wang family have with us at this time?”

Yun Yunrui asked curiously.

“Well, let’s meet them and find out, shall we?”

 

Chapter 199: Today is Different than Before

Wang Chongtian’s emotions were complicated.

Ever since learning that their patriarch, Wang Qingshan, had perished on Mount Wanlong during the Hundred Clans Assembly, it felt as though the sky itself had collapsed.

Their Wang family had painstakingly cultivated a Foundation Establishment immortal cultivator, only to lose him so suddenly!

What infuriated him even more was that the family had yet to identify the culprit behind their patriarch’s death.

The only solace was that the Wang family still had another patriarch, Wang Qinglin, holding the fort. Furthermore, his son remained full of potential.

While their hopes of ascending to become the fourth great family of Yue Kingdom had been dashed, their family’s foundation was still intact. There was still hope for the future.

Otherwise, they might end up like the Tongshan Xia family, whose downfall would be nothing short of catastrophic.

This time, Wang Chongtian had brought several key members of his family to visit the Yun Cang Yun family, hoping to negotiate a partnership. Together, they could seize all of the Xia family’s resources within Tongshan County.

“The Yun family… they’re not what they used to be,” one of the Wang family’s core members remarked as they stood at the entrance to the Yun family estate.

“The Yun family’s development has been smooth, and His Majesty has even betrothed the Seventh Princess to Yun Yantian.
From now on, the Yun family will be connected to the royal family. His Majesty will continue to support them in secret.
The Yun family will only grow stronger with time.

“It’s highly likely that once the Tongshan Xia family falls into ruin, the Yun Cang Yun family will rise to take their place as one of the three great families and seven prominent clans within Yue Kingdom.”

“Who would’ve thought that this once insignificant, obscure cultivation family could grow so powerful in just a few short years?” another Wang family member muttered begrudgingly.

Back then, the Yun Cang Yun family had been at the mercy of their Yulin Wang family.

Whenever Yun Yunyang visited, the Wang family would deliberately keep him waiting for half an hour to assert their superiority.

But times had changed.

The Yun family had risen in strength.

Now, when facing the Yun family, the Wang family’s core members realized that their past sense of superiority had completely vanished.

All that remained was fear and apprehension toward the Yun Cang Yun family.

“Enough. Be careful what you say; someone might overhear,” Wang Chongtian scolded in a low voice.

The Wang family members immediately fell silent, glancing nervously at the blind old daoist resting beneath the shade of a willow tree.

“Brother Chongtian!”

Yun Yunyang emerged with several core members of the Yun family to greet them, his face adorned with a warm smile.

In the past, Yun Yunyang had always addressed Wang Chongtian as “Big Brother Wang,” but now, he simply called him “Brother Chongtian.”

Though the change in address seemed subtle, it subtly signified the growing strength of the Yun Cang Yun family, which no longer needed to depend on the goodwill of the Yulin Wang family.

“Brother Yunyang, it has been a long time!”

Wang Chongtian didn’t seem to mind the change in address. He clasped his hands in a respectful gesture.

“Brother Chongtian, and all of you, please come inside!”

After exchanging a few pleasantries, Yun Yunyang extended his hand in invitation and led Wang Chongtian and his entourage into the estate.

“Seizing the resources of the Tongshan Xia family?”

Upon learning the purpose of Wang Chongtian’s visit, Yun Yunyang sipped his spiritual tea, his expression becoming serious.

“Yes,” Wang Chongtian confirmed.
“The Xia family currently has no capable leader to take charge and is already showing signs of internal division.

“Meanwhile, His Majesty is deliberately suppressing them.
This is the perfect time for us to join forces and seize their resources.

“What do you think, Brother Yunyang? Would you consider partnering with my Wang family for this venture?”

“I’m afraid it may not be appropriate,” Yun Yunyang replied.

“What’s inappropriate about it?”

“Our Yun family has a shallow foundation and isn’t suited to engage in conflicts with the Tongshan Xia family, so…” Yun Yunyang trailed off, adopting an apologetic expression.

“Brother Yunyang, surely you jest. Others may not know the true strength of your Yun family, but I do,” Wang Chongtian said with a sly smile.
“Currently, the other three families and five clans are all planning to carve up the Xia family’s assets.

“If the Yun Cang Yun family joins in, you’re bound to claim a share of the spoils.

“With your family becoming part of the royal lineage, the Xia family wouldn’t dare retaliate afterward. Why, then, are you being so cautious?”

Wang Chongtian continued his attempts to persuade Yun Yunyang, hoping to involve Yun Yantian and Yun Yanshuang in the struggle against the Xia family’s young talents.

That way, in the chaos of the conflict, Yun Yantian and Yun Yanshuang might meet an untimely end…

“Brother Chongtian, I’m truly sorry. Our Yun family simply wishes to focus on cultivating our little patch of land and gradually developing ourselves.

“As for such disputes, we really prefer not to get involved.”

Yun Yunyang remained steadfast in his decision, refusing to participate in the efforts to take down the Xia family.

After all, the other three families and six clans weren’t easy opponents, either.

If they joined forces to destroy the Xia family and the spoils were unevenly divided, it would inevitably lead to further conflicts and disputes.

Besides, was the Wang family really here just to seek cooperation?

They had secretly plotted against the Yun Cang Yun family more than once or twice, nor had they hesitated to target his nieces and nephews in an attempt to weaken the Yun family’s future potential.

If Shuang’er and Yantian were to go, Wang Liyuan and the other talented cultivators of the Wang family would undoubtedly try to sabotage them.

“Brother Yunyang, are you sure you won’t reconsider?”

Wang Chongtian’s expression remained calm, but inwardly, he was seething—this Yun Yunyang was as cunning as a fox, far too cautious for his liking.

“Brother Chongtian, there’s truly no need for further consideration,” Yun Yunyang replied with a slight smile.

“Ah, so be it! Since Brother Yunyang’s mind is made up, I won’t insist further.

“There are still many matters to attend to within my family, so we won’t stay any longer.”

“Brother Chongtian, won’t you stay for a meal before leaving?”

“No need. Family matters take precedence!”

Wang Chongtian waved his hand with a forced smile and left with the Wang family members, his face dark with displeasure.

“Yunrui, summon Shuang’er, Yantian, and Xuan’er to come here.”

Watching Wang Chongtian and his group depart, Yun Yunyang gave the order with a faint smile.

“Understood,” Yun Yunrui replied, quickly rising to carry out the task.

“Uncle.”
“Grandfather.”

Soon, Yun Yanshuang, Yun Yantian, and Yun Wenxuan arrived at the ancestral hall, bowing respectfully to Yun Yunyang, who sat at the head of the room.

“The Wang family visited earlier,” Yun Yunyang began.

“I had a brief chat with Wang Chongtian. From what I gathered, the other three families and six clans are no longer content to merely covertly consume the Xia family’s resources and territory.

“In the coming days, they are likely to join forces and take open action against the Tongshan Xia family.”

Yun Yunyang spoke slowly, his gaze sweeping over his niece, nephew, and grandson.

“So, Grandfather, do you want us to target the Xia family as well?” Yun Yanshuang asked.

“Yes. However, you three must act in secret and ensure that the other three families and six clans don’t discover your presence,” Yun Yunyang said with a nod.

“Especially you, Shuang’er and Yantian. The Wang family has long seen the two of you as thorns in their side.”

“Understood, Uncle.”
“We’ll be careful,” the two replied in unison.

“Xuan’er, you’re nearly seven now, and your cultivation has already reached the fifth stage of the Embryo Breath Realm. You’re progressing rapidly.

“This time, follow your Aunt Shuang and Uncle Yantian on this outing. It will broaden your horizons and serve as a valuable experience.”

“Remember, a flower raised in a greenhouse cannot withstand too much wind and frost.”

Standing, Yun Yunyang approached Yun Wenxuan, placing a hand on his head and speaking solemnly.

The path of immortality was fiercely competitive. Only by growing stronger could one survive and thrive.

He hoped his grandson could follow in the footsteps of Yanshuang and Yantian, gaining valuable experience and eventually becoming a pillar of the Yun family.

Only with strong descendants in every generation could the Yun family remain prosperous.

Otherwise, like the Tongshan Xia family, whose younger generation was weak and divided, they would face the inevitable fate of being consumed and torn apart by others.

“Grandfather, I understand,” Yun Wenxuan nodded earnestly.

“Shuang’er, Yantian, I’ll have to trouble you to take good care of Xuan’er this time.”

“Remember, this mission to seize resources is secondary. Preserving your lives is paramount!”

“If you encounter resources that are impossible to claim, don’t dwell on them.

“Keep in mind that Sun Fengli of the Blue Scaled Sun family perished because of his obsession with a chance encounter in the ruins of the Pill Cauldron Sect. His death led to internal chaos and eventually the fragmentation of his family.”

“We understand, Uncle,” Yanshuang and Yantian replied seriously.

“In the coming days, the family will allocate resources to the three of you. Before the other three families and six clans launch their attack on the Xia family, focus on stabilizing and improving your cultivation.”

“Yunrui, you’ll be in charge of arranging the cultivation resources.”

“Understood, Brother Yunyang. I’ll handle it right away,” Yun Yunrui replied.

“All right, that’s all for now. Everyone, go rest and relax for the time being. Take these next few days to recuperate.”

With that, Yun Yunyang dismissed the group, his words filled with a calm authority that left no room for debate.

 

Chapter 200 In Danger

“Target the Tongshan Xia family? Why has Uncle suddenly made this decision?”

In the small courtyard, Yun Yanshui was taken aback upon hearing his younger sister’s words.

“Actually, Uncle doesn’t want us to openly confront the Tongshan Xia family. What he likely intends is for Brother Yantian and me to take advantage of the chaos when the other three families and six clans join forces to attack the Xia family—seeing if we can pick up any spoils,” Yun Yanshuang explained.

Hearing this, Yun Yanshui nodded in sudden realization.

His uncle was not the type to act recklessly. With the family still in its developmental stage, there was no way they would openly challenge the Tongshan Xia family or wade into the murky waters alongside the three families and six clans.

After all, although their family had grown significantly over the past few years and even become part of the royal lineage, their foundation still paled in comparison to the other three families and six clans. They couldn’t afford unnecessary risks. Quietly plotting their development remained the wisest course.

“Not long ago, some within the clan suggested taking action against the Xia family, but your uncle rejected the idea.

“Now, by secretly sending Shuang’er, Yantian, and Xuan’er to see if they can find opportunities amidst the chaos, it’s indeed a clever plan.

“It avoids arousing the suspicion of the three families and six clans while also avoiding direct conflict with the Xia family.

“At the same time, they can potentially gather some rare fortunes. With the wealth accumulated by the Xia family over many years, even the smallest scraps could greatly benefit our clan,” Yun Yunshan said, puffing on his pipe as he exhaled plumes of smoke.

“However, for added security, Shui’er, you must secretly follow and protect your sister and the others.”

Yun Yunshan’s sharp eyes settled on his son.

The clan might not know the full extent of his son’s abilities, but as a father, Yun Yunshan was keenly aware.

At present, Yun Yanshui’s cultivation had reached the peak of the Qi Refinement First Stage.

Among the three families and six clans, very few could threaten his life. Among the younger generation, there was no one who could match him.

Having his son secretly guard them put Yun Yunshan at ease.

Moreover, Yun Yanshui was not a showy individual. He had been cautious and meticulous since childhood, always handling matters with careful consideration.

Time and again, he had excelled in protecting others, further earning Yun Yunshan’s trust.

“Father, don’t worry. This happens to align with something else I need to take care of.”

“Oh? What is it?”

“Wang Liyuan.”

“I see. Wang Liyuan is indeed a man of great fortune. I’ve heard that his cultivation is currently at the peak of the Ninth Stage of the Embryo Breathing Realm, and he’s on the verge of entering the Qi Refinement Stage.

“Among the younger generation, only your Brother Yantian can rival him.

“However, Wang Liyuan has already comprehended the Sword Intent and gained significant fortunes from both the ruins of the Pill Cauldron Sect and Mount Wanlong.

“In terms of luck and talent, even Yantian lags slightly behind him.

“If this man isn’t eliminated, he could become the next Wang family patriarch—perhaps even surpassing Wang Qingshan.

“Should he grow stronger, he will undoubtedly become a significant threat to our Yun family,” Yun Yunshan said gravely.

“Initially, I planned to use the talents from the Upper Three Families to secretly eliminate Wang Liyuan.

“Unfortunately, those so-called prodigies from the Upper Three Families were incompetent. Wang Liyuan managed to escape from the Pill Cauldron Sect ruins, and the trial at Mount Wanlong also failed to kill him.

“This time, when the three families and six clans openly move against the Tongshan Xia family, Wang Liyuan is sure to participate in the conflict.

“That will be the perfect opportunity for me to act in secret.”

“When dealing with Wang Liyuan, you must remain cautious. After all, the Wang family still has their patriarch, Wang Qinglin,” Yun Yunshan reminded.

“Father, I understand,” Yun Yanshui assured.

“Little sister, do we still have any Disguise Pills?”

After responding to his father, Yun Yanshui turned to his sister with a mischievous grin.

“Big Brother, what do you need Disguise Pills for?”

“It’s always easier to handle matters when you change your appearance! Besides, with the three families and six clans preparing to move against the Tongshan Xia family, I’m sure other cultivation families and rogue cultivators in Yue Kingdom are also itching to act.

“Our Yun family isn’t the only one aiming to take advantage of the chaos.

“Changing my appearance and blending in will make things much smoother, don’t you think?”

“You’re so devious!” Yun Yanshuang teased, shaking her head as she retrieved a bottle of Disguise Pills and handed them to her brother.

“How can this be called devious? This is strategy, wisdom! Isn’t that right, Father?”

Grinning, Yun Yanshui accepted the bottle of Disguise Pills, glancing proudly at his father.

“Haha! Exactly! Caution is the key to enduring for a thousand years,” Yun Yunshan replied with a hearty laugh.

Meanwhile, at the Xia family’s ancestral land in Tongshan County:

“Our patriarch is dead, the royal court is deliberately suppressing us, and the other three families and six clans are circling like vultures.

“In recent days, they’ve covertly seized countless properties under our family’s name.

“And yet, you all still continue to fight amongst yourselves?”

At the head of the hall, a stern-faced middle-aged man in a long robe spoke with authority.

For years, the Xia family had kept a low profile, deliberately concealing the cultivation level of their patriarch. As a result, the outside world believed the Xia family lacked a Qi Refinement stage cultivator.

Now, their patriarch had died while answering the call to Mount Wanlong, and the family still had no idea who was responsible for his death.

To make matters worse, Xia Changqing—once their hope for breaking through to the Qi Refinement stage—had disappeared without a trace during his mission to deal with the Yun Cang Yun family. Whether he was alive or dead remained unknown.

This left Xia Shangwen seething with frustration.

What angered him even more was that, amidst the royal court’s suppression and the predatory gazes of the other families and clans, internal strife for power and resources still raged within the Xia family.

While he could tolerate some scheming and competition among the higher-ups, even the younger generation had begun to show signs of mutual hostility as they vied for cultivation resources.

“Xia Shangwen, what exactly are you trying to say? Do you think you’re the head of the Xia family?”

“You have no right to lecture us on what we should or shouldn’t do!”

A shadowy-faced young man rose from his seat, casting a disdainful glance at Xia Shangwen.

“That’s right! Xia Shangwen, your cultivation level is only at the peak of the Sixth Stage of Embryo Breathing. You’re not even as strong as my daughter, Xia Changyue. And yet, you dare to sit there and preach to us? Ridiculous!”

“Uncle Shangwen, it would be better if you allocated the family’s cultivation resources to me.

“Now that the patriarch is gone, and no one is holding the fort, if I can obtain more resources, I’ll surpass Cousin Changqing and reach the Qi Refinement stage the fastest.

“Once I do, what will the combined might of the three families and six clans amount to? They wouldn’t dare set foot on our ancestral land!”

The speaker, a beautiful woman in an elegant dress, stepped forward and fixed her gaze coldly on Xia Shangwen. She was Xia Changyue, one of the Xia family’s most talented members, second only to Xia Changqing.

If not for the family dedicating most of its resources to her cousin over the years, she believed her talent might have surpassed his.

A year—no, even just six months.

With enough cultivation resources, she could quickly break through to the Qi Refinement stage and take on the mantle of leadership for the Xia family.

“Hmph! Sister Changyue, what grandiose words. Even if the family poured all its resources into you, it would still be a waste!

“You’re almost twenty-five and only at the Eighth Stage of Embryo Breathing. What makes you think you can talk so big?”

The scoffing voice belonged to Xia Changfei, a handsome young man in a white robe. Only eighteen years old, he was already at the Eighth Stage of Embryo Breathing.

In terms of talent, he surpassed both Xia Changyue and Xia Changqing.

“Xia Changfei, are you looking for a fight?”

Xia Changyue’s expression turned icy, her eyes flashing with a cold light.

“Who’s afraid of who? I’d be happy to take you on. If I kill you, that’s one less person fighting me for resources!”

“Enough! Our family is already on the brink of collapse, and yet you refuse to unite and resist external enemies. Instead, you keep fighting amongst yourselves!” Xia Shangwen roared in anger.

“Xia Shangwen, calling you ‘Uncle’ is a courtesy. Don’t think you can lord your title over me!

“If you push me, I’ll kill you just the same!”

Xia Changfei frowned, his eyes flashing with murderous intent.

“Shangyun, are you not going to rein in your son?”

Xia Shangwen turned to a middle-aged man leisurely sipping tea nearby, his fists clenched tightly.

“What did my son say? Why should I stop him?”

“You—”

“Enough. Just allocate all the resources already and let my son break through to the Qi Refinement stage as soon as possible.

“At least then, we’ll have a fighting chance against external threats.

“The longer you delay, the fewer options we’ll have to protect ourselves when a real crisis hits.”

“The patriarch entrusted me with managing the family’s resources before his death. I’m the one who decides their allocation.

“With the way you’re behaving now, how can I possibly trust you with these resources?” Xia Shangwen replied coldly.

“Xia Shangwen, you’re really asking for it, aren’t you?

“Out of respect for familial ties, I’ve held back, but if you refuse to listen, don’t blame me for having my son kill you and take the keys to the family’s resource vault by force!”