Family Rise: Start with Daily Intelligence.

Chapter 560 Royal Family, Breakthrough, Revenge
Wuzhou, the fiefdom of the Lei family.

The wind here seems to carry a sluggishness and oppression unlike anywhere else. It doesn't stem from the thin spiritual energy, but from that forbidden zone sealed by layers of formations—a rift leading to the demon realm. Although sealed, it remains like an unhealed scar, radiating a chilling residual energy.

An ancient bronze altar is the core of the seal.

now.

The figure sitting cross-legged in the center of the altar suddenly opened his eyes.

This man had a resolute face and slightly graying temples. Although he wore only a simple black robe in the uniform of the Imperial Guard, it could not conceal the chilling aura he exuded, forged through countless battles. He was Yue Gang, the head of the Imperial Guard of Wuzhou City, dispatched by the imperial court to guard the passage to the Demon Realm.

"what?"

He sensed powerful, undisguised auras rapidly approaching from the horizon, their numbers and the purity of their cultivation far exceeding anything found in Wuzhou.

"So many Golden Cores?" Yue Gang frowned, suddenly stood up, and took a step away from the altar, standing on a desolate hill outside.

Look up.

A massive, streamlined treasure ship, as large as a mountain, slowly descended through the clouds.

The ship's hull was dark purple, shimmering with a blend of metallic and spiritual wood luster. The most striking feature at the bow was the emblem, outlined with mysterious runes, symbolizing the supreme authority of the Great Zhou royal family!
Yue Gang's sharp gaze swept across the deck in an instant, and his heart skipped a beat.

Thirty people!
Thirty Golden Core cultivators stood like javelins on the deck, their robes magnificent and their auras profound. They looked down at the desolate land below, their indifference and disdain almost tangible, a sense of superiority stemming from the elite circles of the capital.

Among these thirty powerful auras, the leader, dressed in a green robe with a loose belt, had a thin face and appeared calm. However, the spiritual pressure that subtly fluctuated around him made Yue Gang, a late-stage expert who had condensed his golden core in battle, feel a chill in his heart!
"A Nascent Soul cultivator!" Yue Gang was shocked. "This princess... what a grand gesture! Thirty Golden Core cultivators and one Nascent Soul cultivator as her steward?!"

Under his command, the Zhenshi Division and the Yushen Division, which control the entire city of Wuzhou, number no more than ten Golden Core cultivators combined! In comparison, this setup is nothing short of extravagant.

Not daring to be negligent in the slightest, Yue Gang suppressed the turmoil in his heart, and instantly put on a warm yet dignified smile. In a flash, he stepped forward, cupped his hands in mid-air, and spoke in a voice as loud as a bell:

"Haha, I am Yue Gang, the Chief of the Imperial Guard of Wuzhou City. I respectfully welcome the esteemed envoy from the capital! I am ashamed to say that Your Highness has graced us with your presence. I apologize for not being able to greet you properly!"

The head steward in the green robe, Zhao Cong, calmly turned his gaze to Yue Gang, giving a slight nod in return. Without exchanging pleasantries, he directly reached out and took out a scroll of bright yellow silk, its surface shimmering with spiritual light and faintly emanating dragon energy.

"Chief Yue," Zhao Cong's voice was steady and powerful, without the slightest ripple, "By the grace of Heaven, the Emperor decrees: the fiefdom of the sixth-rank Lei family is hereby granted to Princess Runyu as her fief. All affairs shall be under the jurisdiction of the Princess's residence. The responsibility of guarding the Demon Realm passage here shall also be taken over by the Princess's residence."

It was Princess Runyu!
Yue Gang bowed immediately: "Your subject obeys the decree!"

He had already received the imperial summons, but he never expected it to be from this favored princess.

He had heard of this Princess Runyu long ago.

Rumor has it that she lost her father at a young age and was raised by the powerful Princess. She was born as a county princess, and upon reaching adulthood, she was given the double title "Runyu". Now, she has been promoted to a county princess!

The eldest princess held deep-rooted power in the court and enjoyed unwavering imperial favor. The fact that this princess received such attention from her demonstrates the high status she held.

Facing this steward who represented the princess and was himself a fake infant cultivator, Yue Gang, a former military scion and now a high-ranking official, treated him with utmost courtesy:

"Steward Zhao, you must be tired from your journey! Although Wuzhou City is located in a remote area, we have prepared a small feast to welcome Her Highness the Princess and everyone else. I wonder..."

Zhao Cong gently waved his hand, interrupting him, his tone remaining calm yet unquestionable:
"I appreciate your kindness, Lord Yue, but Your Highness's itinerary is uncertain, and the construction of your residence will take time, so let's skip the welcoming banquet. Let's hand over the defenses first."

Seeing this, Yue Gang didn't insist and immediately nodded:

“That’s exactly right! Butler, please come with me.”

The two then landed in the area of ​​the bronze altar.

Yue Gang gave a detailed explanation of the sealing formation, the key points of daily inspections, and any unusual fluctuations that had occurred. Zhao Cong listened attentively, occasionally asking questions that were always insightful and to the point, demonstrating his exceptional competence and profound understanding of formations. Yue Gang's opinion of this man rose even higher.

Handover completed.

Yue Gang asked with a seemingly casual smile:
"I wonder when Princess Runyu will personally visit Wuzhou? I hope I can make preparations in advance to pay my respects."

Zhao Cong glanced at him, his gaze deep, and said calmly:

"Your Highness's whereabouts are beyond our comprehension. He will come when the time is right."

Yue Gang immediately understood that this was a reluctance to reveal the details, so he laughed it off and didn't ask any further questions. After exchanging a few more polite words, seeing that the other party had no intention of discussing the matter in depth, Yue Gang tactfully bowed and took his leave, transforming into a streak of light to return to Wuzhou City to report back.

Yue Gang's figure transformed into a streak of light on the horizon and disappeared completely.

On the desolate hill, only thirty Golden Core cultivators, led by Zhao Cong, and the majestic royal treasure ship hovering in the air remained. The solemn silence that had been as solid as an iron plate before Yue Gang now rippled slightly.

These Golden Core cultivators, though under the command of the Princess's Mansion, all held official positions with formal ranks within the Princess's Mansion or the Eldest Princess's faction back in the capital. Accustomed to the prosperity and abundance of spiritual energy in the capital, they were now suddenly stranded on the outskirts of Wuzhou, where the spiritual energy was scarce and barren. All they could see were desolate mountains and wilderness, and the air was filled with the unsettling remnants of demonic energy seeping from the sealed land.

Immediately, some people couldn't help but complain in low voices.

"Tsk, what kind of place is this? The spiritual energy is so thin it's almost undetectable. Staying here too long will probably cause our cultivation to regress." "Indeed, although the demonic energy is weak, it's everywhere. We have to constantly circulate our energy to resist it, which is a waste of our strength." "Your Highness is of noble birth, why did you choose such an ominous place as your fiefdom? Really..."

Although the murmurs were low, everyone present was a Golden Core cultivator, so how could they not hear them clearly?

At this moment, a young Golden Core cultivator dressed in a scarlet robe, with a somewhat arrogant air about him, stepped forward. He clearly held some influence with the princess, and with a tone of slight bewilderment and indignation on her behalf, he bowed to Zhao Cong and asked, "Chief Steward, it is not that we are being presumptuous. It is just that this place is truly... Your Highness is deeply favored by the Princess, and there are so many beautiful and auspicious places to choose from near the capital. Why did you accept this remote and dangerous fiefdom? Is there perhaps a deeper meaning behind it?"

Zhao Cong's previously calm gaze suddenly sharpened, shooting towards the crimson-robed golden elixir-wielder who had spoken, like two bolts of cold lightning.

"presumptuous!"

A low shout, not particularly loud, yet it seemed to contain some strange pressure, instantly silencing all the murmurs and complaints. The golden core cultivator in the crimson robe turned pale, involuntarily took half a step back, and hurriedly lowered his head.

Zhao Cong's gaze swept over all the Golden Core cultivators present, his eyes sharp as knives, carrying an unquestionable majesty: "How can we, as subjects, presume to fathom His Highness's profound intentions? His Majesty and the Eldest Princess have their reasons for bestowing this fiefdom upon the Princess! Our duty is to diligently perform our duties and complete all matters entrusted to us by His Highness, not to question His Majesty's will!"

His voice was deep and solemn, each word striking a chord in everyone's hearts: "This place will henceforth be the Princess's residence, and also the place where we serve. If I ever hear any more complaints or any dissent against Her Highness's decisions, they will be punished according to the rules of the residence, without any leniency!"

His words were powerful and resounding, instantly making all the Golden Core cultivators tremble. The restlessness and resentment that arose from the difference in environment were completely suppressed, and they all became solemn and respectful again, with no one daring to say another word.

Seeing that the deterrent effect had been achieved, Zhao Cong said no more and waved his sleeve.

"start!"

At his command, the thirty Golden Core cultivators immediately took their positions.

At the same time, the treasure ship's cabins opened, and thousands of cultivators and craftsmen poured out like a tide. These were specialized talents who had come with the ship, such as array masters, talisman array masters, civil engineers, and spirit plant growers. Their cultivation levels might not be high, but they were all well-trained professionals in the capital.

The thirty Golden Core cultivators quickly dispersed, each leading a group. They flew into the air and, based on the pre-planned map, projected beams of spiritual light to mark the locations and guide the way.

"Array Masters, follow me to locate the main mansion's foundation and connect the earth's veins!" "Character Array Masters, immediately survey the surrounding earth's energy and set up the foundation for the outer early warning and protective array!" "Construction Department personnel, according to Diagram No. 3, mine spiritual materials and level the land!" "Spirit Planters, prepare to purify the soil and sow 'Dust-Cleansing Grass' seeds to dispel residual demonic intent!"

One instruction after another was clearly issued.

In an instant, the entire area became incredibly busy. Brilliant light crisscrossed as various large magical artifacts were activated, emitting deep rumbles; precious spiritual materials and jade were continuously transported from the treasure ship's warehouse; array masters began laying intricate array foundations, while talisman masters inscribed profound runes in mid-air…

Under the unified command of these thirty Golden Core cultivators, thousands of people began to operate efficiently, like a sophisticated and massive machine. A grand princess's mansion, built to imperial standards and possessing both luxury and formidable defensive capabilities, was breaking ground on this barren and oppressive land at an astonishing pace.

...

...

Huizhou Prefecture.

Inside the council chamber, the lights were dim.

Liu Meizhen was deep in thought, staring at a map of Wuzhou. Her fingertips lightly traced the boundaries of the Lei family's former fiefdom, her brows furrowed with a hint of worry and caution. Her clothes were simple, yet they could not conceal her dignified bearing. Her eyes were sharp and insightful, as if she could see into people's hearts.

Suddenly, the restriction on the secret room door glowed faintly and flickered three times rhythmically.

Liu Meizhen paused with her fingertips, then with a flick of her sleeve, the door to the secret room slid open silently.

A young man dressed in dark, close-fitting clothes and with a composed demeanor strode in and bowed respectfully: "Mother."

"Rui'er, what is it?" Liu Meizhen noticed his unusual expression and asked directly.

Fu Yongrui lowered his voice, speaking clearly and quickly:
"Mother, the Dark Hall has just received confirmation from the prefecture. The imperial decree has been issued, and the Lei family's fiefdom... has been officially reclaimed and bestowed upon Princess Runyu. The Chief of the Imperial Guard has completed the handover with the head steward of the Princess's residence."

"Princess Runyu?" Upon hearing this, Liu Meizhen frowned slightly, a clear look of surprise flashing across her face. "Is she Princess Runyu, one of the three beauties of the capital, and the daughter of the Eldest Princess?"

“It is indeed her,” Fu Yongrui confirmed. “It is said that because of her special cultivation method, she is still a virgin and has never been married. Moreover, she lives a secluded life and is extremely mysterious. She grew up in the capital and has almost never left.”

Liu Meizhen slowly stood up, paced around the room a couple of times, tapped her fingertips lightly on the table, and pondered:

"This is strange... Why would the imperial court bestow such a remote, barren, and dangerous place, guarding a rift in the demon realm, upon this favored princess? This is no ordinary bestowal of favor or fief. And Her Highness the Princess actually agreed to it?"

Her mind raced:
"The Demon Clan's passage was just sealed when Princess Runyu arrived, and she's even from the Eldest Princess's lineage... This is no coincidence. Rui'er, give the order to have the Dark Hall mobilize all resources to closely monitor everything happening at the Princess's residence, especially her every move after her arrival. I need to know why she came."

“Yes, Mother.” Fu Yongrui immediately agreed, but after a slight hesitation, he added, “Mother, there is one more thing. The Princess’s mansion is currently undergoing a major construction project, and the head steward has brought thousands of men. Should we… prepare a generous gift and pay a visit beforehand?”

He looked up at Liu Meizhen, his tone carrying a barely perceptible urgency: "My brother and sister-in-law went to the capital to seek refuge with that noble person decades ago, and then we lost all contact with them. We have tried to find out more than we could. Now that a noble person from the lineage of the Princess of the Capital has come in person, this may be the perfect opportunity to find out news about my brother and sister-in-law."

Upon hearing her son and daughter-in-law's names, Liu Meizhen's eyes instantly dimmed; they were her deepest concerns. How she longed to immediately fly there and inquire of the imperial guests about Yongfan and Yulian's whereabouts!

But she took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing her surging emotions, and regained her usual calm and decisiveness.

“No, now is not the time.” She shook her head, her voice steady. “The Princess’s mansion is newly built and there are many things to do. The head steward is clearly a meticulous person who doesn’t like socializing. If we come here rashly now, it will be too obvious that we have a clear purpose. It will not only be abrupt, but it will also easily arouse suspicion, and it may even backfire.”

She walked to the window and looked towards the faintly visible glow of the auspicious light emanating from the Princess's residence. Her gaze was deep and thoughtful: "Wait. Once the Princess's residence is officially completed and His Highness Princess Runyu arrives, we will prepare appropriate gifts and formally visit under the guise of congratulating him on his move and paying our respects to the host. That will be the right time to gather information."

She turned to look at Fu Yongrui, her eyes filled with both a mother's love and a ruler's decisiveness: "Rui'er, I know you're anxious, and so am I. But it's precisely at times like these that we must remain calm. Only by planning ahead can we act decisively. Have your people continue to gather information, the more detailed the better."

Looking at his mother's calm face, Fu Yongrui's anxiety gradually subsided. He knew his mother's wisdom and foresight, and bowed respectfully: "Yes, Mother. I understand, I will go and make the arrangements."

After saying that, he quietly left the secret room.

Liu Meizhen remained alone indoors, her gaze once again fixed on the distance.

The weather in Wuzhou is about to change because of the arrival of this mysterious princess.

"It seems we need to hurry to Huixi County."

The [Burning Heaven Token] she received from her husband has been acting strangely more frequently lately, and its target has become clearer: the Burning Heaven Fire Domain of Huixi County.

...

...

Meanwhile, in Wuzhou, the atmosphere in the council hall of another prominent family, the Huang family, was completely different from the cautious atmosphere on Liu Meizhen's side.

Huang Deming, the head of the Huang family, rubbed his hands together, his face filled with undisguised excitement and elation, pacing back and forth in the hall covered with exquisite velvet carpets.

"Great news! Fantastic good news!"

He spoke in a loud voice to Huang Yuehua, the only Golden Core ancestor of the Huang family, who sat calmly at the lower seat:
"For years, the Fu family has been practically the only power in Wuzhou, relying on Fu Changsheng and that woman Liu Meizhen, suffocating us! But now? Haha, the imperial court has sent Princess Runyu! She is the most favored princess in the eyes of the Princess! The Fu family's good days are over!"

Huang Yuehua frowned slightly, her voice gentle yet carrying a hint of disapproval:

"Clan leader, the arrival of the Princess is still uncertain whether it will bring fortune or misfortune to Wuzhou. Our Huang family and the Fu family are currently jointly operating the Wuzhou Chamber of Commerce, and our interests are intertwined. We should unite as one and observe cautiously. The Princess's mansion is powerful; if we local aristocratic families do not unite, I fear that in the future..."

"An alliance? An alliance with the Fu family?"

Huang Deming seemed to have heard the biggest joke in the world. He abruptly stopped and interrupted her with a sneer:

"Elder Yuehua, you're too cautious, too soft! Who is that Princess Runyu? One of the three beauties of the capital, the darling of the eldest princess! A true member of the imperial family! Do you know that she has thirty Golden Core cultivators among her household retainers? And that doesn't even include the guest elders who aren't officially appointed! What kind of pomp is that? Can that impoverished Seventh Prince of Jingzhou compare? He's not even worthy to carry his shoes!" He became more and more agitated as he spoke, his eyes gleaming with calculation.
"This is the greatest opportunity for our Huang family!"
you forgot?
Our Huang family also has a Master Xiao in the Tianji Pavilion!

Master Xiao is also a cultivator from the capital. Perhaps he can use this opportunity to make contact with the Princess's Mansion!
As long as we can climb up to Princess Runyu's high branch, what are Core Formation spiritual treasures? A little bit of them would just slip through the princess's fingers and we'd be able to enjoy them endlessly.

The Fu family? What is the Fu family anyway! They only seem like a big shot because they're holed up in this poor, remote place called Wuzhou. If they were in the capital, they'd probably be beneath their station as gatekeepers for a princess's mansion!

Huang Deming's face was full of fanatical eagerness for quick success, as if he could already see the Huang family rising to prominence by taking advantage of the princess's status.

Huang Yuehua looked at him, her brows furrowing even more deeply. She knew this clan chief was driven by self-interest, but she hadn't expected him to be so short-sighted and impatient. She tried to persuade him again:

"Clan leader, currying favor with the imperial family is no easy task. The princess's intentions are unpredictable. If we rashly approach her, we might not gain her favor, and could even offend the Fu family, ending up with nothing. To be on the safe side, we should..."

"Take it easy? If we keep taking it easy, we won't even get a taste of the soup!" Huang Deming waved his hand impatiently, his tone resolute. "My mind is made up! We must find a way to establish a connection with the Princess's Mansion! Elder Yuehua, you are a Golden Core cultivator of the Huang family, and we need you to handle this matter. As for the Fu family... Hmph, we'll just play along. Once we're on the Princess's side, will we still need to be at their beck and call?"

Looking at the clan leader's unquestionable expression, Huang Yuehua sighed inwardly. She knew that further persuasion was useless; the clan leader had been blinded by the illusory glory. Although she was not assertive, she was not without her own opinions. However, since the clan leader had spoken, she could not openly contradict him and could only remain silent for the time being, though a layer of unease had already settled over her heart.

……

Huang Deming was extremely decisive. After making up his mind, he immediately went to the family's treasure vault and carefully selected several rare treasures full of spiritual energy. He also urgently summoned the most experienced construction master in the family. The group rushed to the old site of the Lei family, the construction site of the Princess's Mansion, which had now become a huge construction site.

The construction site was surrounded by shimmering lights and billowing dust, a magnificent sight of thousands of people working busily, yet also heavily guarded. As soon as Huang Deming and his group approached, they were stopped by a Purple Mansion cultivator dressed in the robes of a princess.

"This is the site of the important construction of Princess Runyu's mansion. No unauthorized personnel are allowed to approach!" The guard's tone was cold and hard, carrying the arrogance of someone from the capital.

Huang Deming quickly put on a smile, cupped his hands and said, "Greetings, fellow Daoist. I am Huang Deming, the clan head of the Huang clan in Wuzhou. I have come to pay my respects to the chief steward of the Princess's residence. I have prepared a small gift to congratulate the Princess's residence on its groundbreaking and am willing to serve you." As he spoke, he gestured for his clansmen behind him to bring out the gift box.

The cultivator from the Purple Mansion realm glanced at the gift box, his expression softening slightly, but he still shook his head: "The head steward is too busy to receive guests. Please return."

Huang Deming was anxious. His eyes darted around, and he casually mentioned, "Please inform him that my great-uncle is Master Xiao of the Heavenly Mystery Pavilion, who has some connections with the capital. Hearing that the princess has arrived, he specially ordered me to come and pay my respects."

"Master Xiao of the Heavenly Mystery Pavilion?" Upon hearing this, the Purple Mansion cultivator's expression became noticeably more serious, and he glanced at Huang Deming. "Wait a moment."

He turned and quickly reported to his superiors.

Before long, the cultivator returned, his attitude much more polite: "The head steward invites you, Clan Chief Huang, please come with me."

Huang Deming was overjoyed. He quickly straightened his robes, told the others to wait outside, and took only the architect with him. He followed the guide through the busy construction site and arrived at a temporary shed that had been set up with a simple array to isolate the noise.

Steward Zhao Cong, still dressed in a green robe, stood with his hands behind his back, watching a formation rune taking shape in the air. Sensing the approaching person, he slowly turned around, his gaze calmly landing on Huang Deming.

"Huang Deming of the Huang family of Wuzhou pays his respects to the head steward!" Huang Deming bowed deeply, adopting an extremely humble posture.

"Clan Chief Huang, there's no need for such formalities," Zhao Cong said calmly. "I've heard that your family has a past connection with Master Xiao of the Heavenly Mystery Pavilion?"

"Indeed, indeed!" Huang Deming quickly replied, a fawning smile on his face. "Master Xiao is my great-uncle. He often thinks of his old friends in the capital. Upon learning that Your Highness the Princess was coming to Wuzhou, he specially sent me to express my gratitude. These are just a few small gifts, nothing more, but I hope you will accept them, Steward." As he spoke, he presented the gift list and treasures again.

Zhao Cong glanced at the gift list, nodded slightly, and gestured for his attendant to accept it, thus giving face to Master Xiao of the Heavenly Mystery Pavilion. However, he showed no enthusiasm whatsoever, simply saying, "Clan Chief Huang is very kind. Please give my regards to Master Xiao."

Seeing that the other party had accepted the gift, Huang Deming felt reassured and immediately pressed his advantage, pointing to the architect beside him and saying, "Chief Steward, the Princess's Mansion project is massive and must be extremely demanding. My Huang family has been operating here for many years and has some excellent architects under our command who are quite familiar with local materials and the terrain. If you would be so kind as to offer your assistance, Chief Steward, we would like to speed up the project's progress..."

Zhao Cong gently raised his hand, interrupting him, his tone still steady but unquestionable: "Thank you for your kindness, Clan Chief Huang. However, the construction of the Princess's Mansion was entirely handled by the Imperial Construction Bureau. There are sufficient manpower and materials, and the procedures and standards are well-established, so it is not convenient for outsiders to interfere."

Huang Deming's warm welcome was met with a cold shoulder, and his smile froze for a moment, but he quickly recovered. His mind raced, and he immediately changed his approach, lowering his voice to say, "I apologize for my abruptness. The head steward's strategic planning ensures everything is in order. However... I have lived in Wuzhou for a long time and have some knowledge of the power dynamics among the local aristocratic families. Perhaps I can offer you some insights?"

Seeing that Zhao Cong did not immediately refuse, he continued, "In Wuzhou today, the Fu family seems to be in charge. However, the matriarch of the Fu family, Liu Meizhen, is a woman, yet she is incredibly shrewd and secretly controls a great deal. Although her son, Fu Yongfan, went to the capital years ago, his influence is deeply entrenched... The other families mostly follow the Fu family's lead. The Fu family's attitude towards Your Highness's visit is ambiguous, suggesting they are not easy to deal with. Although my Huang family is not talented, we are willing to follow the Princess's mansion's lead and serve their command!"

His words, while expressing loyalty, also seemed to be aimed at sowing discord within the Fu family, revealing his eagerness for quick success and instant benefits.

Zhao Cong listened quietly, his face expressionless, his deep gaze seemingly able to see through people's hearts. Only after Huang Deming finished speaking did he slowly open his mouth, his voice devoid of any emotion: "The Princess's Mansion has its own considerations regarding the power of Wuzhou. I appreciate Clan Chief Huang's kindness. The construction of the mansion is busy, so I will not keep Clan Chief Huang any longer."

They actually gave us a direct order to leave.

Huang Deming wanted to say something more, but when he met Zhao Cong's calm yet extremely imposing gaze, all his words caught in his throat. He could only force a smile and cup his hands in greeting: "Yes, yes, I have troubled you. The head steward is busy with official duties, so I will take my leave now. If there is any need in the future, my Huang family will certainly do our best!"

After saying that, under Zhao Cong's indifferent gaze, Huang Deming left the pavilion with a hint of resentment and a touch of embarrassment.

After leaving the construction site, the Huang family builder, who had been following silently behind, whispered, "Clan leader, this head steward is unfathomable."

Huang Deming wiped non-existent sweat from his forehead and snorted, "Which big shot from the capital is simple? But at least we met, sent gifts, and mentioned my great-uncle's name, so we've at least left some impression. Let's go, this matter needs further consideration!"

Although he was rebuffed, his desire to curry favor did not die out; on the contrary, it became even more fervent.

...

...

Nanshan Island, She family.

In a secluded courtyard brimming with spiritual energy, a young man was practicing magic. His fingertips shimmered with spiritual light, and icy blue aura moved at his will, condensing into various shapes—sometimes slithering like a serpent, sometimes blooming like an ice lotus—his control far surpassing that of his peers. He was She Tianyun, son of Mo Yinyin, possessing a mutated ice spiritual root.

Because of his exceptional talent, he held a superior position in the She family and was deeply loved. Even the legitimate son of the first wife had to avoid his brilliance. This fostered in him a naive yet arrogant attitude, as if he were ignorant of the ways of the world.

Mo Yinyin stood quietly under the corridor, watching her son practice, a barely perceptible glint of calculation and coldness flashing in her eyes. After years of forbearance, the time had finally come.

She stepped forward slowly, her face displaying a mixture of sorrow and resentment.

"Yun'er."

Upon hearing the sound, She Tianyun stopped his attack, and the ice crystals dissipated. He looked at his mother with a slight puzzlement: "Mother, what is it?"

Mo Yinyin sighed softly, her voice heavy with sorrow: "Yun'er, do you know how your maternal grandfather died?"

She Tianyun was taken aback. He had been well protected since childhood and knew very little about these old stories, only vaguely hearing that his maternal grandfather had met with misfortune. "Wasn't... he met with an accident?"

"An accident?" Mo Yinyin sneered, tears welling in her eyes. "That's just a smokescreen! Your maternal grandfather, Mo Tianying, was murdered by Shangguan Hongyu, the island lord of Five-Colored Island! She seized White Feather Island and took over the Mo family's estate! This is a blood feud of killing my father and seizing my family's property!"

Upon hearing this, She Tianyun's blood boiled instantly, and his handsome face was filled with rage: "Shangguan Hongyu? She actually dared to kill my maternal grandfather?! Mother, why didn't you tell me sooner!"

"Your mother was powerless before, what good would it have done to tell you? It would only have caused you more trouble, and might even have brought you danger," Mo Yinyin said sadly, gently stroking her son's cheek. "Now you've grown up, your cultivation is progressing daily, and you are the hope of our She family. After much thought, your mother believes this grudge must be avenged! Moreover, if you can personally reclaim White Feather Island and Five-Colored Island, avenging your maternal grandfather, it will not only fulfill your filial duty, but also expand the family's territory and make a great contribution! At that time, let's see who in the clan will dare to underestimate us, mother and son?"

Her mother's words ignited a surge of passion in She Tianyun. His youthful arrogance and confidence in his strength made him believe the task would be effortless. He nodded vigorously, his eyes flashing with excitement and murderous intent.
"Mother, rest assured! A mere island lord is nothing to worry about! I will go and invite Uncle Zhong right away. We will set off immediately, raze Five-Colored Island to the ground, and bring back Shangguan Hongyu's head to you!"

After saying that, he turned around and rushed out in a hurry to find his protector—Uncle Zhong, who was loyal to him and had the cultivation level of the early stage of the Purple Mansion realm.

As Mo Yinyin watched her son's departing figure, her face was devoid of any sadness, only filled with cold scheming and a triumphant smile.

However, while the mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind.

The news of She Tianyun's excited departure was almost immediately relayed back by the First Madam's spies.

In the luxurious main courtyard, upon hearing the secret report, the First Madam curled her lips into a cold smile.

"Good, that bitch Mo Yinyin finally couldn't hold back and sent her precious darling to her death." She sipped her tea leisurely. "That brat She Tianyun is arrogant because he has some talent. It's perfect to have Shangguan Hongyu get rid of this major threat for me!"

She immediately summoned her trusted aide and whispered, "Go to Five-Colored Island immediately and see Shangguan Hongyu before She Tianyun. Tell her... and give her this item..."

The First Madam took out a talisman with complex runes and swirling spiritual energy from her sleeve, a ruthless glint in her eyes: "This is a third-tier 'Explosion Talisman,' powerful enough to severely injure or even kill a cultivator in the early stage of the Purple Mansion realm."

"Yes, Madam!" The confidant respectfully accepted the talisman, quietly withdrew, and transformed into a streak of light, rapidly fleeing towards Five-Colored Island.

The First Madam looked out the window, her smile growing even deeper. Regardless of the outcome, for her, it was a win-win situation.

Meanwhile, She Tianyun had already found his protector, Uncle Zhong. Uncle Zhong was a middle-aged cultivator with a kind face and a calm demeanor. He was extremely protective of She Tianyun and almost always obeyed his every word.

"Uncle Zhong! Come with me to Five-Colored Island! I'm going to kill someone and take back what rightfully belongs to my mother!" She Tianyun commanded with great enthusiasm.

Uncle Zhong looked at his young master's face full of excitement and pride, a hint of worry flashing in his eyes, but he was used to obeying, and simply nodded steadily: "Yes, young master. This old servant will protect you."

Soon, a magnificent flying boat belonging to She Tianyun rose up, carrying a confident young man and his loyal protectors, and sped towards Five-Colored Island.

...

...

Five-Colored Island, the quiet room of the island lord's residence.

Shangguan Hongyu was focused on the mysterious jade box in front of her, which was completely black and had runes that were faintly visible.

More than a decade has passed without leaving a mark on her stunning beauty. Instead, as her cultivation gradually recovers, she gains an even more ethereal air and unfathomable majesty.

She channeled spiritual energy through her fingertips, trying various spells to break the ancient restriction, but to no avail. The black box remained motionless, only occasionally sending back a chilling ancient fluctuation.

On the ground to the side, Xianyu was resting her chin on her hand, watching her aunt busy herself with a bored expression.

She had blossomed into a bright young woman, yet her lively eyes still held a childlike curiosity and a hint of impatience.
"Auntie, we've been trying to open this black lump for over ten years, and we still can't! Why don't we go play with Xiaoyue? She said a group of glowing silver threadfin fish have recently come to the rocky beach..."

Shangguan Hongyu raised her eyes, about to speak, when the barrier outside the quiet room was gently activated.

"Island Master, Alan has urgent business to attend to." Alan's calm yet slightly hurried voice came from outside the door.

"Come in." Shangguan Hongyu waved her sleeve and put away the black box.

Alan strode in, her expression grave, carrying a foot-long black jade box. "Island Lord, the patrolling disciples just found this item in front of your mansion. No one saw who placed it. The box is protected by a seal, and there's a note attached." She presented the note first.

Shangguan Hongyu took the note. The handwriting was messy but forceful: "The bastard of the She family of Nanshan is about to arrive. This item is given to Island Master Shangguan. It may be of some help to you. Burn it after reading." The signature area was blank.

Her eyes flickered slightly, and a spark flew from her fingertips, burning the note to ashes. She then looked at the jade box; its enchantments, though impressive, were far less profound than the black box. Her fingertips danced across several points like butterflies flitting among flowers, and the lid clicked open.

Inside the box, a third-tier explosive talisman with intricate runes and radiant spiritual light lay quietly on the brocade, next to a jade slip containing information.

Shangguan Hongyu picked up the jade slip and placed it on her forehead. After a moment, she put it down, a meaningful smile curving her lips.

"Island Lord, is a powerful enemy attacking?" Upon seeing this, Alan's heart leaped into his throat, his face unable to conceal his worry and fear. "Nanshan Island... that's a powerful family with a Purple Mansion cultivator in charge! How... how can we withstand it? Should we immediately activate the strongest defenses and request reinforcements from the surrounding islands?"

Before Shangguan Hongyu could answer, Xianyu jumped up, her face flushed with excitement: "Nanshan Island? Is it that powerful? They're coming to fight? Great! Perfect opportunity to test how well I've mastered the 'Azure Wave Slash' that Auntie just taught me!"

"Xianyu, stop fooling around." Shangguan Hongyu scolded lightly, but her tone was not very reproachful. She looked at the extremely anxious Alan and smiled calmly: "Alan, don't panic."

Before she finished speaking, a vast and powerful spiritual pressure slowly emanated from Shangguan Hongyu's body, instantly filling the entire meditation room. That pressure was as deep and majestic as an abyss, far surpassing that of a Foundation Establishment cultivator; it was clearly the aura of a Purple Mansion cultivator! Moreover, its condensed and profound nature even made Alan, who was already in the late stage of Qi Refining, feel breathless and filled with awe.

"Island Lord! You...when did you..." Alan was both surprised and delighted, almost incoherent. She only knew that the Island Lord's cultivation was profound, but she did not know that he had quietly recovered to the Purple Mansion Realm!

"It's just that I've recovered a little of my former cultivation." Shangguan Hongyu's tone was calm, as if she were talking about a trivial matter. Her gaze fell again on the explosive talisman and jade slip in the black jade box, a glint of wisdom flashing in her eyes.

“I was just wondering where to find a place with abundant spiritual energy for… my next stage of cultivation.” She paused slightly, as if there was something deeper in her words, “Unexpectedly, Nanshan Island has delivered itself to my doorstep. And they’ve even sent their most precious treasure over here.”

She moved gracefully to the window, gazing towards Nanshan Island. Her profile was as perfect as a jade carving, yet her eyes were frighteningly calm.

“This young master from the She family has arrived at the perfect time.” She smiled slightly, revealing a confident and shrewd expression. “We can use him to open the door to Nanshan Island for us. Alan, pass down the order: the island is on high alert, but outwardly relaxed but inwardly vigilant. Without my command, no one is allowed to make a move, especially… no one is allowed to harm that young master from the She family.”

Alan was now completely at ease, her eyes filled with reverence and confidence: "Yes! Island Lord! I will make the arrangements immediately!" She bowed and withdrew, her steps becoming much lighter.

Xianyu sidled up to Shangguan Hongyu, blinking her big eyes, "Auntie, are we going to attack that big island? Is it fun?"

Shangguan Hongyu gently ruffled her hair, her eyes filled with affection but also a hint of deeper meaning: "Hmm, it might be quite 'fun'. Xianyu, this time you must be a good girl and listen to your aunt. Maybe we can get you a bigger 'new home' with more spiritual energy."

Xianyu seemed to understand but not quite, but the words "new home" and "fun" were enough to make her jump for joy.

Shangguan Hongyu once again cast her gaze into the distance, where the sea and sky merged into one, and waves began to rise. Her eyes were calm and unwavering, as if what was about to happen was not a crisis, but rather… a long-awaited opportunity. Nanshan Island, Purple Mansion cultivators? Perfect as a stepping stone for her to embark on the path to the Golden Core!
(End of this chapter)