Family Rise: Start with Daily Intelligence.

Chapter 628 Spy, Power Seizure, Divine Healer Valley

Fu Yongyao traced afterimages on the array plate with his fingertips. Countless silver runes surged from the array plate, seeping into the core array patterns of the "Rock Solid Suppressing Mountain Array" as if they possessed a life of their own.

"Reverse the formation's core!" she shouted.

The entire mountain-protecting formation emitted a deep hum, and the direction of the light curtain suddenly reversed. The defensive spiritual pressure that was originally pointing outwards suddenly contracted inwards, like an invisible shackle, pressing heavily on Elder Chiyan!
"Pfft—" Chi Yan spat out another mouthful of blood. His spiritual power was suppressed by the power of the great formation itself, and even the circulation of his golden core became extremely sluggish. He watched helplessly as Fu Changsheng took a step forward, and the hand surrounded by chaotic energy rapidly enlarged in his pupils.

"Fu family, you just wait... Our Vermilion Bird tribe will definitely... not..."

The words have not yet fallen.

Fu Changsheng's palm had already been lightly placed on his dantian.

There was no earth-shattering explosion, only a faint, shattering sound, like glass breaking. Elder Chiyan's surging spiritual power dissipated instantly like a flood bursting its banks, the light in his eyes quickly dimmed, and his body collapsed limply to the ground.

A Golden Core elder had his cultivation instantly destroyed at the core of his own formation!

Fu Changsheng didn't even glance at the unconscious Chi Yan lying on the ground. He nodded slightly to Fu Yongyao and said, "Take full control of the formation as soon as possible and clean up the remnants."

"Yes, Father." Fu Yongyao focused intently and continued to control the array plate. The silver runes spread like a tide, quickly covering and cleansing all the array marks left by the Vermilion Bird Tribe, firmly grasping the absolute control of this "Rock-Suppressing Mountain Array" back into his hands.

……

The cemetery on the back hill.

The battle is over.

The azure dragon hovered low in the sky, its dragon might receding, and the skeleton vines retreated back underground. Luo Haitang stood beside Chi Hu's corpse, her long sword still dripping blood, her chest rising and falling slightly, her eyes a mixture of the satisfaction of revenge and a trace of emptiness.

Fu Yongxuan sheathed his longsword and strode to the tombstone.

At this moment, the array's light gate had become extremely unstable due to Chi Hu's death, flickering and on the verge of extinction. She pointed her fingers like a sword, and a point of pure Xuan Yin sword energy pierced into a certain node of the light gate—this was the method Luo Haitang had told her before, to close and completely conceal the array here.

The portal trembled a few times before disappearing silently. The base of the tombstone returned to normal, and no spiritual energy fluctuations could be sensed anymore.

“Mother, this place has been resealed,” Fu Yongxuan said softly.

Luo Haitang took a deep breath, suppressing her turbulent emotions, and nodded. Her gaze swept over the fleeing Vermilion Bird Tribe cultivators, and she said coldly:

"Leave no one behind!"

……

Half an hour later.

The protective array around the Luo family stronghold had been completely altered; the color of the light barrier, which had been stained crimson by the Vermilion Bird tribe, had been restored to the deep, earthy yellow color inherited by the Luo family. Any sporadic resistance within the stronghold was also quickly extinguished.

Inside the council chamber, Luo Haitang stroked the familiar patterns on the main seat, overwhelmed with emotion. She turned and bowed deeply to Fu Changsheng, who stood beside her with his hands clasped behind his back.
"Fellow Daoist Fu, we, Haitang and the Luo family, will never forget your kindness in helping us and your merit in recovering our territory!"

Fu Changsheng gestured to help him up, saying, "Elder Luo, there's no need for such formalities. The Luo family and the Fu family are of the same blood, so this is only our duty."

His gaze swept over the familiar scene outside the hall, now under different control, and his tone was calm but carried a hint of reminder: "Although the stronghold has been recovered, the main force of the Vermilion Bird Tribe has been lost, but its foundation remains, and the royal court's movements are unclear. Elder Luo still needs to stabilize this place as soon as possible and restore its defenses."

Luo Haitang nodded solemnly: "Fellow Daoist Fu, rest assured, I understand."

...

...

at the same time.

After failing to get help from the Fu family at Tianlang Mountain, Luo Hao turned around and went to the Sun family, a fifth-rank family.

The Sun family's mountain gate was wide open, with a full retinue of ceremonies. Even the Sun family patriarch—a plump-looking, smiling fake infant cultivator—personally led several elders to greet Luo Hao, the "fallen" young master, at the mountain gate, giving him ample face.

"Nephew Luo, your presence is an honor to our Sun family! Please, please come in!" Clan Chief Sun warmly grasped Luo Hao's hand, treating him with the same kindness one would show to a family member.

Such enthusiasm overwhelmed Luo Hao, who had been feeling uneasy, and dispelled much of his gloom over the past few days. After taking his seat in the magnificent welcoming hall, he dared not delay and immediately revealed his purpose—to earnestly request the Sun family to send troops to help him reclaim the Luo family's stronghold in the Eastern Wilderness.

He had assumed that the Sun family would use this opportunity to impose various harsh conditions, and were even prepared to cede some of their interests.

However, after listening, Chief Sun stroked his beard and pondered for a moment before laughing heartily:
"So that's what happened! The Luo family and my Sun family are both fifth-rank families and have been on good terms for generations. Now that the Luo family is in trouble, how can my Sun family sit idly by? Rest assured, my Sun family will take this responsibility!"

Why did you agree so readily, without even making any demands?
Luo Hao was even more surprised, almost thinking he had misheard. He couldn't help but tentatively ask, "Uncle Sun, you are so righteous! But... I didn't know the Sun family needed the Luo family..."

"Hey—" Clan Chief Sun waved his hand to interrupt him, his smile growing even warmer, even carrying a hint of kindness towards a junior. "Nephew, you are mistaken. Why should our two families be so formal? In fact, we will soon become one family. Isn't it only natural for us to help each other?"

"A family?" Luo Hao was taken aback, not understanding.

Chief Sun explained with a smile:

“Indeed. I have a youngest daughter named Sun Yuru, who is at the nascent stage of cultivation, with excellent aptitude and a gentle nature. She has been unmarried for a long time. I have observed that my nephew has a handsome appearance and a pure character, making him an excellent match for me. If he and my Yuru could become husband and wife, our two families would be even closer. Wouldn't that be wonderful?”

He revealed his true intentions, directly proposing a marriage alliance and promising:

"As long as my nephew nods, this marriage is settled. My Sun family will do everything in its power to help you revitalize the Luo family and solidify your position as clan leader! At that time, sending troops to the Eastern Wilderness to reclaim the stronghold will only be the first step."

Luo Hao was completely stunned.

He never expected that the Sun family had such a plan! To marry their most beloved youngest daughter to him, the young master who had just suffered a major defeat and whose future was uncertain? And they even promised to do everything they could to support him in taking the throne?
The huge surprise left him somewhat dizzy.

Compared to the cold shoulders and perfunctory treatment he received from the Fu family, the olive branch extended by the Sun family at this moment was like sending charcoal in snowy weather, and it was also a strong support for him to consolidate his position!
As for the praise of "pure and virtuous character" from Patriarch Sun, Luo Hao automatically interpreted it as the other party valuing his status as the young master of the Luo family and his future potential. He desperately needed external support at the moment, so why would he refuse such a good opportunity?

"Uncle...is this really true?" Luo Hao's voice trembled slightly.

"Marriage is a serious matter, how can it be treated lightly?" Chief Sun's smile remained unchanged. He clapped his hands, and immediately a clansman presented the marriage certificate that had been prepared in advance.

"If my nephew has no objection, our two families can exchange marriage certificates on the spot and finalize this happy event. After you return to the Luo family and stabilize the situation, we will choose an auspicious day to hold the wedding. After the wedding, my Sun family's army will immediately set off to help my nephew recover the lost territories!"

Faced with immense temptation, Luo Hao's last shred of reason was overwhelmed by his thirst for power and revenge. He could almost see himself, with the support of the Sun family, firmly seated on the throne of clan leader, leading the Luo family members back to the Eastern Wilderness!

"Thank you for your kindness, Uncle. I am willing!" Luo Hao no longer hesitated and stood up to give a solemn bow.

"Good! Good! Good son-in-law!" Clan Chief Sun laughed heartily, stepped forward personally, and exchanged marriage certificates with Luo Hao.

Looking at the heavy marriage certificate in his hand, Luo Hao was filled with excitement. He felt as if the gloom of the past few days had been swept away and his future was bright!
With the Sun family providing strong support as the Yue family, what is there to worry about in achieving great things?

Fu family?

Hmph, you'll see just yet!

...

...

After seeing off the smug and unsteady Luo Hao, the atmosphere in the main hall of the Sun family quietly changed.

Behind the screen emerged a graceful young woman, none other than Sun Yurou, the youngest daughter mentioned by the clan chief. She possessed a beautiful face, yet her eyes held a lingering hint of disdain and resentment.

"Father, are you really going to marry your daughter to that Luo Hao?" Sun Yurou asked, her voice filled with grievance. "I've long heard that he's a lecherous and incompetent man. The Luo family's stronghold in the Eastern Wilderness was lost because he was obsessed with women! If I marry such a good-for-nothing, won't my life be ruined?"

Sun Chengyue's warm smile had vanished, replaced by a shrewd and calculating calm. He picked up his teacup, took a small sip, and said softly:
“Yu Rou, your understanding of the problem is still too superficial.”

He put down his teacup and looked sharply at his daughter:
"What I value in him is his 'lustful incompetence' and 'hopelessness'! It's precisely because he's incompetent that my Sun family is easier to control! It's precisely because he's lustful..."

He gave his daughter a meaningful look; her face, inherited from her mother, was stunningly beautiful, and she possessed an innate allure.
"With your looks and skills, what difficulty would it be for you to control him and make him obey your every word?"

Sun Yurou's delicate body trembled, a hint of humiliation flashing in her eyes:
"So, Father intends to use his daughter as a tool to seduce people and control an empty shell of the Luo family?"

"A tool?" Sun Chengyue chuckled, shook his head, and his tone softened, yet carried an undeniable allure. "Yu Rou, you're mistaken. What I'm giving you is a chance to rise to the top in one step, a fortune that many noble ladies would kill for!"

He stood up, hands behind his back, and paced back and forth:
"Although the Luo family has suffered a heavy blow, its reputation, foundation, and connections as a fifth-rank family are still intact! As long as you marry into the family, with your skills and my support, you can control Luo Hao and then gradually infiltrate the Luo family. In the future, the entire Luo family may become yours! At that time, you will no longer be the youngest daughter of the Sun family, but the matriarch of a fifth-rank family! How can this be compared to an ordinary marriage alliance?"

Seeing that his daughter's expression softened but she was still unwilling to give up, he unleashed his real trump card:

"I know that you are proud and ambitious, and you are unwilling to be someone who only uses your looks to please others. You are afraid that your beauty will fade and your love will wane. I have already considered this for you."

His tone became serious:
"If you accept this marriage, the clan's treasury will open for you, providing the Golden Core and all the auxiliary spiritual items needed for Core Formation, and we will even have the Supreme Elder personally protect you! The clan will do everything in its power to help you condense your Golden Core in the shortest possible time!"

Sun Yurou suddenly looked up, her beautiful eyes flashing with disbelief!
Condensing the Golden Core! This is a realm that countless cultivators dream of! With the Golden Core cultivation level, coupled with the support of the Sun family behind her, her status in the Luo family will be completely different! At that time, controlling Luo Hao and influencing the Luo family will no longer be just empty talk!
Seeing the longing in her eyes, Sun Chengyue knew the time was right, and slowly added, as if it were just a casual remark:
"Of course, if you really don't want to, your father won't force you. Your third and fifth sisters have been looking forward to this opportunity for a long time. After all, whoever agrees to this marriage will receive the full support of the family and achieve the Golden Core in one step."

These words were like the last straw.

Sun Yurou instantly clenched her sleeves. She knew all too well how fierce the competition within the family was; once such an opportunity was missed, it would never come again. Compared to marrying an incompetent but easily controlled husband in exchange for real Golden Core cultivation and the possibility of controlling a fifth-grade aristocratic family in the future, the grievances and resentment seemed bearable.

She took a deep breath, suppressing the complex emotions in her heart, and put on a charming yet resolute smile again, bowing gracefully to Sun Chengyue:
"Father's foresight is profound; I, your daughter, have been short-sighted. This marriage... I accept! I will certainly not fail Father and the family's high expectations!"

A genuinely satisfied smile appeared on Sun Chengyue's face.

...

...

The ancestral home of the Luo family, the main hall for council discussions.

Unlike his anxious departure, Luo Hao was now in high spirits, his face glowing. He sat high above his father in the main seat, his gaze sweeping over the various expressions of the clan elders below, his voice filled with barely suppressed excitement and urgency:

"Elders! During my recent trip, I have secured powerful allies for the clan! The fifth-rank Sun family has agreed to provide their full assistance to help the Luo family reclaim the Eastern Wilderness stronghold and restore our prestige!"

These words immediately caused a stir in the hall. The Sun family! That was a powerful family with immense strength, said to have already met the requirements for advancing to the fourth rank! If they could get help from the Sun family, their current predicament might indeed be resolved.

However, before the joy on the faces of the elders could fully bloom, Luo Hao's next words made their hearts tighten:
"Not only that, the Sun family patriarch is a man of great principle and is willing to forge an eternal alliance with my Luo family. He has already betrothed his youngest daughter to me, the young master! The marriage ceremony will be held soon! This is an opportunity for my Luo family to rise again in this time of crisis!"

He paused, then his voice suddenly rose, carrying an undeniable air of authority:
"However, a country cannot be without a ruler for a day, and a family cannot be without a head for a day! My Luo family has suffered such a great calamity, and the position of clan leader is vacant. People's hearts are restless, and this is by no means a long-term solution! As the only Golden Core cultivator among the direct descendants, I, the young master, am rightfully to inherit the position of clan leader! I urge all the elders to immediately join together and submit a petition to the imperial court, requesting that I, the young master, be appointed as the new clan leader of the Luo family!"

The hall fell silent instantly, and the atmosphere became somewhat subtle.

A marriage alliance with the Sun family would certainly be a good thing, as it could solve their immediate crisis.

However, some of the older clan elders felt a sense of unease.

The Sun family is powerful and on the rise; their intentions behind the marriage alliance are likely far more complex than simply "seeking righteousness." While a fifth-rank family may seem only one rank apart, the difference in strength and foundation is immense. To negotiate with a tiger for its skin—if one is not careful, the entire Luo family could be gradually infiltrated and swallowed up by the Sun family!
But right now, the Luo family really doesn't have a better option. The Fu family's attitude is unclear, and most of the other friendly families are also observing. The Sun family is the only one willing to lend a helping hand.

Some clan elders, eager to stabilize the situation or already inclined towards Luo Hao, began to speak up in agreement after a brief silence:
"Young Master is absolutely right! A family cannot remain without a leader for long, and a marriage alliance with the Sun family is a godsend! We are willing to jointly submit this petition!"

"That's exactly right! The young master's ascension to the throne is perfectly legitimate!"

However, several prudent elders looked hesitant, and one of the most senior members reluctantly spoke up:

“Young Master, the marriage alliance with the Sun family is indeed a cause for celebration. However, according to clan rules, the succession of a new clan leader requires the joint agreement of all core elders, especially… the presence of the Grand Elder. Now, Elder Haitang…”

Before he could finish speaking, Luo Hao's face instantly darkened, and a golden core stage spiritual pressure was released without reservation, enveloping the entire hall like a mountain!
"Humph!"

Luo Hao snorted coldly, interrupting the elder, his eyes sharp as knives as he swept over everyone present:

"Clan rules are dead, but people are alive! What time is it now? It's a critical moment for the survival of our clan! Luo Haitang and her daughter have gone deep into the Eastern Wilderness and there's still no news of them. Their fate is unknown! Just because she hasn't returned, must our Luo family remain leaderless and wait for our demise?!"

He abruptly stood up, his spiritual pressure intensifying, his voice carrying a tyrannical air:
"I am the only Golden Core cultivator present in the Luo family rightfully to inherit the family's power! I should step forward in this time of crisis, take charge of the family, and lead my people out of this predicament! This matter concerns the survival of the family and needs no further discussion!"

He stared intently at the elders who had raised objections, his tone carrying a blatant threat:

"Execute immediately! Submit a joint petition to prepare for the grand ceremony! Anyone who dares to use clan rules as an excuse to delay the event is disregarding the interests of the clan, and will be punished according to the clan rules by this young master!"

Under the overwhelming spiritual pressure of the Golden Core cultivator and Luo Hao's unquestionable attitude, the dignified elders turned pale, opened their mouths, but ultimately lowered their heads in dejection under the surrounding chorus of agreement and the heavy pressure.

"I...I will obey the young master's command."

Seeing that no one dared to object anymore, Luo Hao finally withdrew his spiritual pressure with satisfaction, a smug smile returning to his face. He seemed to already see himself wearing the robes of a clan leader, marrying into the Sun family, taking control of the Luo family with their support, and even… perhaps even using the Sun family's power to elevate the Luo family to new heights in the future!

As for Luo Haitang and her daughter, who were far away in the Eastern Wilderness and whose fate was unknown, he had long since forgotten about them.

Just now.

A clear voice rang out in the hall. "Who says that just because the family is in imminent danger, we need to act hastily and disregard family rules?"

A clear and calm female voice came from outside the hall. The voice was not loud, but it clearly entered everyone's ears, as if it had a strange magic power, instantly breaking the tense and oppressive atmosphere inside the hall.

Everyone turned in astonishment, only to see a familiar figure standing at the entrance of the main hall. She was travel-worn, her brows bearing the weariness of battle, yet her posture remained as upright as a pine tree, her eyes sharp as lightning, and she exuded the composed aura of a Golden Core cultivator—who else could it be but Luo Haitang?!

"Great Elder!"

"Elder Haitang has returned!"

Those clan elders who were initially intimidated by Luo Hao's imposing aura and were unwilling but powerless to resist were instantly moved to tears, as if they had seen a guiding light in the dark night. They stood up and bowed in the direction of Luo Haitang, their voices filled with heartfelt respect and relieved cheers!

An elderly clansman with white hair was so excited that his beard trembled, and he exclaimed, "Heaven blesses the Luo family! The Grand Elder's safe return is truly a blessing for the clan!"

Another elder quickly echoed:

"Yes! Elder Haitang deserves the greatest credit for the Luo family's rise from humble beginnings to the fifth rank! If it weren't for the spiritual treasure that Elder Haitang found for the Core Formation stage back then, how could the Luo family have produced so many Golden Core cultivators in the future? Who in the clan would dare to forget this kindness and virtue?"

"Indeed! Former clan leader... Alas, if he hadn't been so headstrong and ignored the Grand Elder's advice, how could the Luo family's elite have been wiped out at Tianyin Mountain!"

"Now that the family is facing such a great calamity, we need a calm and wise person like the Grand Elder to take charge of the overall situation, so that we can set things right and lead the Luo family out of this predicament!"

The clan elders spoke one after another, their emotions running high.

They all have a scale in their hearts.

It is a fact that Luo Haitang dislikes worldly affairs and that his power was gradually eroded and undermined by the former clan leader, Luo Tianyue.

But Luo Haitang's contributions to the Luo family's development to this day are unparalleled! Especially after the devastating defeat at Tianyin Mountain, the bloody consequences of the former patriarch's stubbornness were laid bare before their eyes, making these elders realize who the true pillar who could lead the Luo family back on the right track was!

the other side.

Luo Hao felt a chill run from the soles of his feet straight to the top of his head, and his hands and feet instantly became icy cold.

He never expected that Luo Haitang would return so quickly!
As he anticipated, Luo Haitang and her daughter ventured deep into the heart of the Eastern Wilderness. Even if they survived, they would inevitably be entangled by the remaining forces of the Vermilion Bird Tribe and would find it extremely difficult to escape in the short term.

He could take advantage of this opening to act decisively, unite with the Sun family to seize the position of clan leader, and create a fait accompli. At that time, even if Luo Haitang returned, with the Sun family backing her up, she wouldn't be able to do anything to him.

But man proposes, God disposes!
At this moment, facing Luo Haitang's calm yet all-seeing gaze, Luo Hao felt his scalp tingle and his heart pound. He subconsciously avoided eye contact, a surge of uncontrollable guilt and fear welling up deep within him.

This guilt stemmed not only from his grave mistake of losing the Eastern Wilderness stronghold and the resulting heavy casualties among his people, but also from a deep-seated reverence rooted in his youth—

Back when he was just a clueless boy cultivating in the family academy, Luo Haitang was already a renowned and powerful elder, the undisputed pillar of the family. That long-standing hierarchical pressure wouldn't completely disappear just because he had now become a Golden Core cultivator.

In particular, he knew very well how his Golden Core cultivation had been built up with the vast resources of his family, and that his foundation was far less solid than that of a seasoned late-stage Golden Core cultivator like Luo Haitang, who had cultivated step by step through arduous practice. If they really fought, he probably wouldn't even be able to withstand three moves.

However, just as he was about to be overwhelmed by the pressure, Sun Chengyue's warm smile and the heavy marriage certificate flashed through his mind.

The Sun family! Oh, right, I also have the Sun family!
Like a drowning man grasping at a last straw, Luo Hao took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing his turbulent emotions, and tried to straighten his back, which was slightly hunched due to his guilty conscience.

He raised his head again, and although there was still a flicker in his eyes, he managed to force a semblance of composure on his face.

He cleared his throat, trying to make his voice sound less dry, and cupped his hands in a respectful gesture towards Luo Haitang, his tone carrying a deliberate distance and an imperceptible firmness:

"So...it turns out Elder Haitang has returned. That's wonderful. I was just worried that the family would be without a leader, which is why I resorted to this desperate measure. Now that the elder has returned safely, everything will naturally be decided by the elder."

He paused slightly, deliberately emphasizing his words, as if reminding everyone, or perhaps encouraging himself:
"However, the marriage alliance with the Sun family has already been settled, and the marriage certificate has been exchanged. The Sun family is an important support for the revival of my Luo family. This matter... concerns the future of the family. I believe Elder Haitang will not object, will she?"

Luo Hao's words, seemingly a concession, actually put Luo Haitang in a difficult position. He brought up the marriage alliance with the Sun family and emphasized that the marriage contract was already finalized, attempting to use it as a shield and a bargaining chip in the struggle for power.

The hall fell silent instantly, all eyes focused on Luo Haitang.

Even the elders who supported her showed a hint of worry in their eyes. The Sun family was powerful, and if they rashly refused, they would probably offend this powerful ally immediately, which would not be good for the Luo family, which was already in dire straits.

However, Luo Haitang's expression remained unchanged. She didn't even respond to Luo Hao immediately. Instead, her gaze calmly swept over each of the elders present, and she spoke slowly, her voice clear and steady, carrying a comforting power:

"I deeply sympathize with the concerns and earnestness of the elders regarding the clan. Now that I have returned, we shall discuss the clan's affairs together and ensure that the clan does not stray from the right path again."

She first set the tone, indicating her attitude of returning to take charge, but she did not act arbitrarily. Instead, she emphasized "joint consultation," which instantly won the approval of more clan elders.

At this moment, Fu Yongxuan, who was standing behind Luo Haitang, stepped forward, bowed slightly to Luo Haitang and the elders, and said in a clear voice, "Mother, elders, there is something I need to report to you about the Eastern Wilderness stronghold."

Everyone's attention was immediately drawn to it. The Eastern Wilderness stronghold was the starting point of the Luo family's current disaster and one of the most pressing issues.

Fu Yongxuan continued, "On my way back, my mother and I met up with my father... the head of the Fu family. With the strong support of the head of the Fu family, we successfully recaptured the Eastern Wilderness stronghold three days ago. Of the two Golden Core elders of the Vermilion Bird Tribe who were left to guard the stronghold, one was killed and the other was captured. Now, the stronghold has returned to the control of my Luo family and is temporarily under the management of a trusted person under my mother's command. We are currently clearing out the remaining enemies and restoring order."

boom!
This news struck like a thunderbolt from a clear sky, exploding throughout the hall!
"What?! The outpost... has been recaptured?!"

"Two Golden Core cultivators... one dead, one captured?!"

"It was Patriarch Fu who made a move? God bless the Luo family!"

The elders were initially incredulous, then erupted in thunderous cheers and discussions, their faces flushed with excitement. The fall of the Eastern Wilderness stronghold was a huge weight on everyone's hearts, a shame and guilt that Luo Hao could never wash away. Now, this huge weight had actually been lifted by Luo Haitang and her daughter, together with the Fu family! And with such overwhelming force!

what does this mean?
This means that the Luo family's lost foundation has been regained!

This means that Luo Haitang is not only exceptionally capable, but also maintains an extremely close relationship with the now prestigious Fu family!
Fu Changsheng is a terrifying existence capable of confronting Nascent Soul cultivators and annihilating the main force of the Vermilion Bird Clan!
In contrast.

The Sun family's assistance, which Luo Hao had yet to fulfill and which he had to obtain through marriage, suddenly seemed pale, powerless, and even somewhat laughable—Luo Hao had to beg and plead to get an uncertain promise from someone, while Luo Haitang and her daughter had already reclaimed their lost territory through their own abilities and allies!
Luo Hao froze on the spot, his face turning from white to green, then from green to red, as if a dye shop had been opened.

I felt a burning sensation on my face, as if I were being whipped by countless gazes.

His biggest stain was so easily erased by Luo Haitang, and even turned into her achievement and prestige! The marriage alliance with the Sun family, which he had just relied on as a backer, instantly became an embarrassing joke in the face of such a real victory.

Luo Haitang then turned her gaze back to the distraught Luo Hao, her tone still calm, yet carrying immense weight:

"Luo Hao, you neglected your duties and fled alone, causing the stronghold to fall into the hands of the Vermilion Bird Tribe, and your people to die tragically. What is your punishment?!"

...

...

At the foot of Wulian Mountain.

Prince Jiu and Zhou Jin boarded the treasure ship that had been prepared in advance.

After a half-month trek, we finally arrived at the edge of a mountain range shrouded in mist.

Following the directions of the tattered map in the steward's hand, they were already at the outer maze of the Divine Doctor Valley.

"Your Highness, Young Master, we must proceed on foot from here."

The head steward was the first to disembark, bowed deeply towards the depths of the clouds, and then took out a seemingly ordinary wooden token from his robes, channeling a wisp of true energy into it.

The token emitted a soft light, and the clouds in front seemed to be parted by an invisible hand, revealing a narrow path that could only accommodate one person at a time.

"Wait here."

The Ninth Prince gave orders to his guards, and then, together with the Left Protector, personally helped Zhou Jin, following behind the head steward, into the misty path. The Right Protector remained on the outer perimeter, responsible for vigilance and support.

The winding path seemed to contain the principles of Qimen Dunjia (a form of divination), and without a token to guide one, it would be easy to get lost. After walking for about the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, the view suddenly opened up, revealing the entrance to a verdant valley. At the entrance stood a blue stone with eight ancient characters inscribed on it: "Where spring returns, worldly travelers are forbidden."

There was no imposing gatehouse at the entrance of the valley, only a few disciples dressed in plain linen robes, their auras restrained, on duty. The head steward stepped forward, handed over the token, whispered a few words to the disciples on duty, and presented them with a pre-prepared visiting card and a small brocade box.

A disciple took it, examined it for a moment, and said calmly, "Wait here." He then turned and went into the valley to report.

Two hours passed in this wait. The Ninth Prince, a prince of such rank, had never been treated so coldly before, but for his nephew's sake, he suppressed his anxiety and waited patiently. Zhou Jin leaned against a blue stone, his face ashen, his breathing weak, as if even waiting had exhausted his strength.

Finally, the disciple returned, followed by an elderly man in a blue robe with a gaunt face. The old man's gaze swept over the crowd, and he paused slightly when he saw the head steward.

"Is it an old friend from Kyoto?" the old man asked, his voice calm.

Upon seeing the old man, the head steward's face immediately lit up with excitement. He quickly stepped forward and bowed deeply: "Are you Steward Liu? No, you should now be called Elder Liu! I am Zhou Fu, the steward of the Prince of Kyoto's Mansion. Decades ago, on the banks of the Lanjiang River, Elder Liu bestowed medicine upon my son, saving his life. I will never forget this kindness and virtue!"

Upon hearing this, Elder Liu carefully examined the head steward, and a hint of realization finally appeared on his usually calm face: "So it was you. I didn't expect that after decades, you would find this place." His gaze swept over the Ninth Prince and Zhou Jin, and his brows furrowed almost imperceptibly when he sensed the dense aura of death emanating from Zhou Jin.

"Elder Liu, to be honest, I have come here today to beg you to save my young master's life!" The head steward said, bowing deeply again and presenting a heavy storage bag with both hands. "This is a small token of my master's appreciation. I implore you to be lenient and introduce me to the master in the valley."

Elder Liu did not immediately take the storage bag, but instead looked at the Ninth Prince: "And who is this?"

"This junior, the Ninth Prince of the Capital, greets Elder Liu." The Ninth Prince set aside his status, clasped his hands in a respectful bow, and lowered his posture considerably. "On the treasure ship is my nephew, who is afflicted with a strange illness and whose life hangs in the balance. Perhaps only the Valley of Divine Physicians in the world can save him. I humbly beg the Elder to have mercy and lend a helping hand. I will be eternally grateful and will repay you handsomely!"

Elder Liu pondered for a moment, then looked at the head steward's earnest, even pleading, eyes, and sensed the pure medicinal fragrance and spirit stone fluctuations emanating from the storage bag. He knew this "kindness" was far from simple. He sighed, "Very well, let the karma from back then be repaid today. However, the rules in the valley are strict. Whether we can enlist the help of a master, and what price we will have to pay, is beyond my ability to guarantee."

The head steward was overjoyed upon hearing this and quickly replied, "As long as there is a glimmer of hope, we are willing to bear any cost!"

Elder Liu then took the storage bag, scanned it briefly with his divine sense, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes before he regained his composure: "Wait here for a moment, I will go in and inform 'Master Qingmu,' who happens to be in the valley recently. Whether you can persuade him depends on your own fate."

After saying that, Elder Liu turned around and walked back into the valley.

Another long wait ensued. Every minute and every second felt like torture. Zhou Jin's consciousness was becoming increasingly hazy, and he occasionally uttered mumbled words tinged with the metallic smell of blood. The Ninth Prince held his icy hand tightly, continuously channeling gentle internal energy to protect his heart, his eyes bloodshot.

About half an hour later, Elder Liu reappeared, a look of relief on his face. He nodded to the Ninth Prince and the head steward: "Master Qingmu has agreed to meet you. Come with me. Remember, do not make any noise in the valley, and follow all instructions."

Everyone's spirits lifted, and the Ninth Prince and the Left Protector carefully lifted Zhou Jin, following Elder Liu, and finally stepped into the legendary Valley of Divine Healers.

The scenery inside the valley was completely different from the outside world. Rare flowers and exotic herbs were everywhere, the air was filled with the fragrance of herbs, and spiritual energy was swirling in the mist, making one feel refreshed and relaxed with just a breath. However, they had no time to appreciate it. Following Elder Liu, they passed through several corridors and arrived at an elegant bamboo house hidden among the green bamboo.

Elder Liu gestured for them to wait outside the door, then straightened his robes and respectfully entered the bamboo hut.

Inside the bamboo hut, an elderly man with a youthful face and white hair, dressed in simple linen clothes, sat on a futon. A simple tea set was placed in front of him, and he was slowly and methodically brewing tea, his movements natural and harmonious, as if he had blended into his surroundings. He was none other than the Azure Wood Saint, one of the three great masters of the Divine Healer Valley.

"Uncle-Master," Elder Liu bowed respectfully, "the person has been brought here. In my opinion, the young man's illness seems to be caused by a variant of the ancient 'Silent Miasma,' which is eroding his life force and is quite troublesome. His family is willing to pay any price just to save his life. This is part of the gift list they have presented; please take a look." With that, he presented the storage bag and a gift list.

Aoki no Master didn't look at the gift list, but simply sniffed the faint deathly aura in the air and slowly said, "The annihilation miasma... is indeed troublesome. It can only be resolved with either the 'Life Creation Pill' or the 'Wood Rejuvenation Technique'. The former is difficult to find materials for and difficult to refine; the latter depletes the caster's vital essence."

Elder Liu quickly said, "Uncle-Master, that Ninth Prince is the son of the current Princess, and his family is quite wealthy. Perhaps they can gather the necessary ingredients for the elixir. Moreover, their attitude is sincere, and their steward has a past favor to me..."

Aoki Seisho raised his hand to interrupt him, his gaze calmly fixed on the doorway, as if he could see through the bamboo wall to the dying boy and his family.

"Tell them," the Aoki Master's voice was calm yet carried an undeniable authority, "that if you want me to intervene, you need three things: First, a piece of ten-thousand-year-old warm jade to protect their heart meridian and resist the backlash of evil energy during treatment; second, three drops of thousand-year-old wood essence as a catalyst for casting the Resurrection Technique; third..."

He paused slightly, then continued, "Whether it succeeds or not, you must promise me that if the Divine Doctor Valley ever needs anything in the future, the Ninth Prince's Mansion must do one thing for me unconditionally, without violating any moral principles."

Elder Liu's heart skipped a beat. The first two items were already rare treasures, and the third was an even heavier promise of gratitude. He bowed and said, "Yes, disciple will go and inform them immediately."

When Elder Liu relayed the conditions of the Azure Wood Saint to the Ninth Prince and the head steward outside the door, both of their expressions changed slightly. Ten-thousand-year-old warm jade and thousand-year-old wood marrow were both priceless treasures, extremely rare and highly sought-after.

However, the head steward replied almost without hesitation, "Please inform the divine hand that we agree! Even if it costs the entire royal palace, we will find what we need!"

The Ninth Prince nodded emphatically, looking at Zhou Jin, whose breath was growing weaker and weaker, his eyes filled with a do-or-die determination:

"As long as it can save Jin'er, I will find it even if it's thirty things, let alone three!"

Elder Liu nodded at their resolute expressions and turned to report back.

A moment later, Aoki Seishun's calm voice came from inside the bamboo hut:

"In that case, bring him in. First, use acupuncture to stabilize his life. You all, go and prepare."

The Ninth Prince was overjoyed upon hearing this.

The bloodline of the elder brother's offspring has finally been continued.

Zhou Jin, who had thought her illness was beyond saving, now felt a glimmer of hope.

but.

He dared not have too many expectations, for fear of being disappointed!
(End of this chapter)