Xun'er pursed her lips, a hint of solemnity creeping into her expression. As a direct descendant of an ancient race, she had never heard of any ancient race completely sealing off and concealing its own territory in all these years. This incomprehensible change weighed heavily on her heart, making the air feel heavy.

Xiao Lingjing, who was standing to the side, listened to the conversation between the father and daughter, a hint of understanding flashing in his eyes. Although he knew some of the hidden details behind the matter, he did not interrupt rashly.

After all, the details involved are quite complex, and the reason he knows the inside story is difficult to explain to others. Silence is the most appropriate course of action at this moment.

The Soul Clan's attack on the Spirit Clan was ultimately for the Spirit Clan's inherited ancient jade, the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade. However, despite their elaborate schemes, they had wasted their efforts. The ancient jade had already fallen into their hands many years ago. In the end, the Soul Clan's efforts were all for naught.

Gu Yuan gently tapped the armrest of the warm jade chair with his fingertips. The crisp sound echoed slowly in the quiet hall, each tap seeming to strike the heart, adding a touch of solemnity.

His gaze swept across the swirling clouds outside the hall, his deep eyes seeming to shimmer with starlight. His tone carried the insight and solemnity of someone who had experienced the vicissitudes of life: "The events in the Spirit Realm are no accident. I can vaguely sense that the seemingly peaceful Dou Qi Continent is already turbulent beneath the surface. All signs indicate that the peaceful days will not last long, and the continent will soon be thrown into turmoil again."

He turned to look at Xun'er, his gaze softening slightly, yet still unable to conceal his solemnity.
"The Spirit Clan, as one of the eight ancient clans, possesses profound heritage, yet it has fallen into such an ambiguous state, demonstrating just how dangerous the hidden variables are. In the years to come, anything unimaginable could happen. You possess divine bloodline and bear the future of the ancient clan. You must pay close attention to clan affairs and think thrice before acting. You must never be as impulsive as before. Now that the continent is in turmoil again, you must not make any mistakes at this critical juncture."

Upon hearing this, Xun'er nodded solemnly: "Father, rest assured, Xun'er knows what is important and will act cautiously in the future."

Gu Yuan nodded slightly, then turned his gaze to Xiao Ling beside him. His gaze seemed to penetrate people's hearts, carrying scrutiny, as well as a hint of expectation and warning.
"Xiao Ling, you have exceptional talent and a calm temperament. Your current strength is enough to establish yourself on the continent, so I don't need to say more. However, the current situation is treacherous and turbulent. The Soul Clan is eyeing us covetously, and there are changes in the Spirit Realm ahead. When you travel on the continent in the future, remember not to be careless."

He paused, his tone growing increasingly somber: "You and Xun'er are deeply in love, and from now on, you will be half family to my ancient clan. Your safety is not only a matter for yourself and the Starfall Pavilion, but also for Xun'er's heart and the bonds between our two clans. You must leave yourself some room for maneuver in your actions, plan ahead before you act, and do not let momentary impulses cloud your judgment. You must know that enemies in the shadows are far more difficult to guard against than those in the open. I see that your destiny is extraordinary, but it also carries some calamities. Only by proceeding cautiously step by step can you protect yourself and those around you in this chaotic world."

Upon hearing this, Xiao Ling nodded slightly in response.
"Thank you for your guidance, Clan Chief Gu. I will keep it in mind. In the future, when I travel across the continent, I will be careful with my words and actions and live up to the Clan Chief's teachings and trust."

Gu Yuan looked at his composed demeanor and a hint of approval appeared in his eyes.
"It's good that you understand. With the coming of chaos, the power of an individual is ultimately limited. The bonds and support between different races are becoming increasingly important. If you need any help in the future, you can mention it to Xun'er. My ancient clan will naturally not stand idly by."

He already held a certain degree of approval for this young man whose future was destined to be closely linked to the ancient clans, and after returning from the trip to the Heavenly Tomb, this approval became even more profound.

Others might only vaguely sense the increasingly unfathomable aura emanating from Xiao Ling, but they couldn't see the true transformation beneath that aura. However, with his current cultivation and vision, he had already seen through Xiao Ling's realm. It was an aura that only a Dou Sheng powerhouse could possess, a spirit that was integrated with heaven and earth yet transcended them. Clearly, he had broken through the shackles and entered the Dou Sheng realm!

Such a rapid advancement was something even he had never achieved back then. In just three short years during his journey to the Heavenly Tomb, he had leaped from the peak of the Half-Saint realm to the rank of Dou Sheng. This talent and opportunity had already exceeded the conventional understanding of the powerful figures throughout the continent's history.

But Gu Yuan was, after all, a figure standing at the pinnacle of the mainland. Having weathered countless storms, even though he was surprised, he did not show the slightest sign of losing his composure on his face. He maintained his calm and dignified demeanor, only the deep admiration in his eyes deepened.

Xiao Ling is no longer the rising star who needed protection from others. The title of Dou Sheng is the passport to the top of the continent, and there are very few beings with such strength throughout the entire Dou Qi Continent.

Even though the ancient clans are among the eight ancient clans, with profound heritage and numerous powerful figures, they would never regard Xiao Ling as an ordinary prodigy.

A young Battle Saint's potential and future value far surpass those of older, veteran Battle Saints. Such a person is enough to become the stabilizing force of a power, and enough to make any top power take him seriously and not underestimate him.

Gu Yuan became increasingly certain that Xun'er's judgment was correct. A person like Xiao Ling would surely forge a path that would shake the continent in this chaotic world, and his bond with the Gu Clan would undoubtedly become a great asset to the Gu Clan in the future storms.

The somber atmosphere inside the hall, caused by the changes in the spirit world, had not completely dissipated. The three of them fell silent for a moment, with only the jade bells outside the hall ringing softly in the wind, faintly reaching their ears.

Xiao Ling sat quietly for a moment and saw that Gu Yuan's expression had gradually calmed down, and Xun'er was also lowering her eyes to straighten her sleeves. The solemnity between her brows had quietly faded away, so he knew that now was the time to speak.

He slowly raised his eyes, his gaze first sweeping over Xun'er beside him, a gentle light appearing in his eyes, before turning to Gu Yuan in the main seat. His expression was solemn yet earnest, and he spoke in a clear voice.

"Clan Chief Gu, what you just said about the chaotic times is related to the safety of all races on the continent. Xiao Ling will certainly keep your teachings in mind and work together with the clan. But today, in addition to listening to the clan chief's instructions, I have another matter to ask for your permission."

Upon hearing this, Gu Yuan raised an eyebrow, signaling him to continue.

Xiao Ling took a deep breath, his tone becoming increasingly solemn.
"Xun'er and I have known each other for many years and are deeply in love. We have long since pledged our hearts to each other. Now that I have become a Dou Sheng, although I dare not say that I can protect her for the rest of her life, I have enough confidence to shield her from the wind and rain. Now that chaos is about to break out and the road ahead is dangerous and unpredictable, I would like to ask the clan leader to grant my request and arrange a marriage between Xun'er and me, so that I can rightfully protect her by her side and face all storms together in the future."

The moment the words fell, Xun'er, who had been sitting quietly, stiffened slightly, and a faint blush suddenly appeared on her cheeks, like fine rouge spreading out, instantly dispelling the solemnity that had arisen from the matter of the spirit world.

She looked up at Xiao Ling, her eyes no longer showing any worry, but instead filled with tenderness and shyness. Her gaze was as gentle as water, containing a hint of shyness, a hint of joy, and a hint of longing for the future. She quietly looked at Xiao Ling's profile, and even her breathing seemed to become a little softer.

The aloofness and self-restraint that belonged to the direct descendants of the ancient clan had completely transformed into the coquettishness and tenderness of a young girl, which moved everyone who saw her.

Gu Yuan took in the expressions of the two men. A hint of surprise flashed across his eyes, which then turned into a knowing smile.

Looking into Xiao Ling's open and honest gaze, and then at Xun'er's shy and bashful appearance, his satisfaction with Xiao Ling grew even stronger. He had the courage to face the chaos of the world, as well as the respect and responsibility for love. With such a character and the strength of a Dou Sheng, he was indeed a good match for Xun'er.

Gu Yuan's fingertips caressed the warm jade armrest, his gaze shifting between Xiao Ling's openness and Xun'er's shyness, a complex yet gentle smile appearing in his eyes. In fact, ever since Xun'er and Xiao Ling met and fell in love, he had received news of the undisguised feelings between them, but as a father, he had never thought of interfering.

Xun'er has been intelligent and independent since childhood, with a strong will. Anyone who can win her heart must have something extraordinary about them, and Xiao Ling's performance over the years has indeed not disappointed him.

Now that Xiao Ling has taken the initiative to bring up the marriage proposal, and has the confidence to back it up with his Dou Sheng cultivation level, his sense of responsibility and sincerity are more than enough.

He looked at Xun'er and saw his precious daughter looking up at him with her big, watery eyes, full of undisguised anticipation. It was a hope he had never seen before.

Gu Yuan sighed softly in his heart. After all, a daughter is like a tree that cannot stay at home forever. This girl had already tied her heart to the young man beside her.

He withdrew his gaze, slowly nodded to Xiao Ling, his tone carrying a hint of a father's helplessness, but even more so, an expression of approval and entrustment.

"Enough. How could I not know what you two are thinking? Since you two met, I have never thought of interfering. I only hope that Xun'er can find a loving partner and live a peaceful and happy life. Now that you have become a Dou Sheng, you have enough ability to protect her and you are so sincere to her. What else do I have to worry about?"

After saying that, he looked at Xun'er, his eyes becoming even gentler: "This girl has been pampered by the clan since she was a child. She seems calm and composed, but she can be stubborn at times. I hope you will be more tolerant of her in the future and not let her suffer any grievances."

In response, Xiao Ling nodded solemnly, his eyes filled with undisguised determination: "Clan Chief Gu, rest assured. Protecting her and tolerating her temperament is my lifelong wish. There is absolutely no reason for her to suffer the slightest grievance."

Having said that, he turned his head to look at Xun'er beside him, his palm tightening slightly, gripping her cool, soft hand even tighter. The force wasn't strong, but it carried an absolute certainty and tenderness, as if he were holding the most important treasure of his life, unwilling to let go for even a moment.

Xun'er felt the warmth and strength from his palm, and the blush on her cheeks deepened. She bravely raised her eyes to meet Xiao Ling's gaze, her eyes filled with tenderness, and her lips held an unconcealable smile of joy. She gently squeezed his hand back, silently conveying her feelings.

"I agree to this matter." Gu Yuan's voice lost its previous solemnity and became more gentle with a sense of peace. "Now that the marriage is settled, you, Xiao Ling, are the lawfully wedded son-in-law of my Gu clan."

His gaze fell heavily on Xiao Ling, his tone becoming more serious, carrying the authority of a clan leader and the entrustment of a father.
"From now on, you must always remember what you said today. Chaos is coming. No matter what lies ahead, whether it be a mountain of knives or a sea of ​​fire, or a storm of wind and frost, you must protect her for the rest of your life. Do not betray Xun'er's devoted heart, and do not disgrace the weight of this marriage contract or break the trust between my ancient clan and you."

"However, given the current turbulent situation, the grand ceremony will be postponed for now. Once the chaos subsides and the storms recede, I will organize a grand ceremony for you, inviting all the races of the continent to witness it, so that the world may know that the daughter of my ancient clan has found a good man worthy of entrusting her life to."

Upon hearing this, Xiao Ling immediately stood up, bowed deeply to Gu Yuan in the main seat, and said in a solemn and earnest tone: "Thank you for your kindness, Clan Chief Gu. I am deeply grateful."

He didn't make too many promises. A thousand words are no match for concrete actions in the future. He would spend the rest of his life fulfilling his feelings for Xun'er, his cherishing of this marriage, and his vow to protect her.

Looking at his composed demeanor, Gu Yuan's eyes showed even greater approval. He slowly nodded, then raised his hand and waved it, his tone returning to a more peaceful tone: "Alright, I have said all I need to say. If you have nothing else to say, you may leave now. I will not keep you any longer."

He paused, then added, "If you wish to stay in the ancient clan for a longer period of rest and recuperation, that's fine too. The clan will make proper arrangements. If you have any needs or difficulties, just tell Xun'er, and she will handle it accordingly."

Hearing Gu Yuan say this, Xiao Ling and Xun'er exchanged a glance and also decided to leave. They then stood up together and bowed to Gu Yuan again, saying, "In that case, we will take our leave now."

Gu Yuan nodded slightly, saying nothing, but a hint of relief flashed in his eyes as he watched the two figures walking hand in hand.

The two straightened up, Xiao Ling still holding Xun'er's soft hand tightly, the warmth of their palms touching spread through their limbs and bones, making their hearts soften.

They did not fly through the air, but walked slowly along the bluestone path, deliberately slowing their pace, wanting to savor the brief peace before the coming chaos.

Outside the palace, clouds and mist gathered lightly, and spiritual energy swirled around like gauze. Jade bells under the eaves sang softly in the wind, their sound accompanied by the footsteps of the two people, creating a particularly serene atmosphere.

Ancient trees lined the way, and the stream shimmered. Dappled sunlight filtered through the branches and leaves, casting dappled shadows on the two figures walking hand in hand.

The two chatted back and forth, reminiscing about past anecdotes and their hopes for the future. Their words contained no grand vows, only the warmth of ordinary young people.

These moments of slowing down allowed them to experience something special. In this chaotic world where storms were brewing, being able to stroll side by side with one's beloved and chat about everyday things was a rare and precious peace and comfort.

Inside the Warm Jade Hall, Gu Yuan remained seated in the main jade seat, his gaze passing through the half-closed hall door as he watched the two figures walking away hand in hand until they were gradually obscured by the forest mist and verdant foliage, at which point he slowly withdrew his gaze.

He tapped the armrest lightly with his fingertips, his eyes swirling with complex emotions: the reluctance of a father, the expectations for the younger generation, and the solemnity of the impending chaos.

"How high will your future reach?" Gu Yuan murmured, his tone filled with inquiry and anticipation. "For ten thousand years, countless powerful figures on the continent have fallen. That unassailable pinnacle might... truly be broken in this era." (End of Chapter)

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