Family Rise: Start with Daily Intelligence.

Chapter 631 Mother and Son Reunion, Promotion, and the Deadly Intent of the Imperial Capital

Wuzhou, Huizhou Prefecture.

Upon receiving the urgent message, Gan Muwan quickly tidied her appearance and hurried out to greet them.

When she saw the magnificent treasure ship that symbolized royal status and the Ninth Prince disembarking from it, she was filled with doubt and uncertainty.

Why would His Highness the Prince, who lives far away in the capital, suddenly visit their remote Fu family?
However, when she saw the pale-faced, thin but handsome young man who was then helped off the boat by the Ninth Prince, Gan Muwan's breath hitched and her heart trembled violently!

The young man's appearance... was almost identical to that of Kang'er, who rarely left the mansion!
She suppressed the turmoil in her heart, put on a perfectly respectful smile, and welcomed the Ninth Prince and his entourage into the reception hall of the mansion.

Guests and hosts were seated separately, and fragrant tea was served.

The Ninth Prince had not yet spoken.

Sitting at the lower end of the table, Zhou Jin, whose breathing was unsteady, could no longer contain himself:

"I am Zhou Jin, the grandson of the late Seventh Prince. My mother is Fu Yongning. I have come here today to... to request an audience with my mother and to reunite with my elder brother Kang'er."

Although Gan Muwan had already guessed, hearing the young man introduce himself still stirred up a huge wave of emotions in her heart!

Wasn't that child supposed to have died long ago?
How could it suddenly appear?
They even brought the Ninth Prince!
She glanced quickly at the Ninth Prince, who sat upright in the main seat with a solemn expression, and instantly understood the reason why the prince had come in person—it was for this child, and also for… Kang’er!
Gan Muwan, being the person in charge of the general affairs of the prefecture, quickly calmed down and stood up warmly, saying:

"It's actually Sister Ning's child?! This...this is such a wonderful surprise! Please, please sit down! You're not feeling well, don't stand on ceremony!"

"It's just that your mother..."

She paused, her words tinged with regret and sorrow.

The Ninth Prince spoke at the opportune moment, his voice steady:

"Elder Fu, I accompanied Jin'er here today for two reasons. First, to fulfill his wish of reuniting with his family; second, to see my other nephew, Zhou Kang. I wonder where Kang'er is now? Is he alright?"

Gan Muwan said in a deep voice:

"Reporting to Your Highness, Kang'er is doing well... He is cultivating in the villa in the manor. Since Your Highness and... Jin'er have come, I will personally go and invite them over for a chat."

...

...

Gan Muwan left the awkwardly atmosphere-filled reception room with hurried steps.

She did not go directly to the Jingxin Garden where Zhou Kang was, but instead turned a corner and came to the secluded courtyard where Fu Yongning was practicing meditation.

The courtyard gate was tightly closed, shrouded in an array, exuding a chilling aura that kept strangers at bay.

Gan Muwan paused outside the door, channeling a wisp of her inner energy to transmit her voice inside:
"Sister Yongning, it's me, Mu Wan. I have something important to tell you."

A moment later, the array's light barrier rippled slightly, revealing a crack.

Gan Muwan slipped inside.

The courtyard was filled with spiritual energy. Fu Yongning, dressed in plain clothes, sat cross-legged beneath an ancient tree, her aura perfectly balanced, clearly indicating that her cultivation had become increasingly stable after forming her core. She slowly opened her eyes, her gaze serene and indifferent, and looked at Gan Muwan:

"Sister-in-law, what's the matter that you're in such a hurry?"

Gan Muwan looked at her like this and sighed inwardly. She knew this was a difficult matter to speak of, yet she had no choice but to say it. She took a few steps closer and whispered:

“Yongning, two people have arrived outside. One is His Highness the Ninth Prince of the capital, and the other… is a young man named Zhou Jin.”

Upon hearing the name "Zhou Jin," Fu Yongning's harmonious aura experienced a very subtle disruption, but it quickly returned to normal. Her eyes remained completely calm, and she simply asked indifferently:
"so what?"

Seeing her reaction, Gan Muwan understood, but still continued:
“That child… claims to be the grandson of the deceased Seventh Prince, your… son. His appearance is almost identical to Kang’er’s. The Ninth Prince personally accompanied him, saying that… he wanted him to reunite with his family.”

Fu Yongning remained silent for a moment, then a faint, cold smile curved his lips:

"not see!"

Zhou Jin... He was taken away as soon as he was born and given to that old hag to raise. He died before he was a year old. She didn't have much affection for the child. What did it matter to her if he came back to life?

Gan Muwan hurriedly said:
“Yongning! That child… he looks very bad, his face is ashen, he’s lifeless, I’m afraid… I’m afraid he’s terminally ill and doesn’t have much time left! He came back from afar, perhaps just to see you one last time before he dies, to hear your voice…”

"Then there's even less reason to meet!"

Fu Yongning abruptly interrupted her, his voice rising slightly, carrying a resolute coldness:

"Since his days are numbered, what good would it do to see him? It would only add to my sorrow! I already consider him dead, dead at birth! Why should I disturb my peace of mind now? If I see him and develop even a little maternal affection, wouldn't I blame myself and grieve again when he passes away? Haven't I suffered enough?"

She stood up, her back to Gan Muwan, her figure appearing solitary and stubborn.

“Zhou Xuanming has betrayed me, and that old hag has deceived me. The Zhou family has only hatred for me, no kindness whatsoever! Whether their descendants live or die, whether they are honored or disgraced, has nothing to do with me, Fu Yongning! Sister-in-law, please go back and tell them that I am in seclusion and will not see any guests!”

Before she finished speaking, she waved her sleeve, and the array light screen in the courtyard suddenly lit up, becoming thick and solid, directly "sending" Gan Muwan out of the courtyard, and then completely sealed it off, not even a trace of her aura leaking out.

Gan Muwan stood outside the tightly closed courtyard gate, looking at the cold light screen, and could only sigh deeply in helplessness.

Fu Yongning's inner conflict runs too deep; his hatred for the Zhou family has seeped into his very bones and cannot be resolved with just a few words.

She shook her head and turned to walk towards the Tranquil Garden where Zhou Kang was.

Unlike Fu Yongning's cold and hard refusal.

When Gan Muwan told Zhou Kang outside Jingxin Garden that the Ninth Prince and her younger brother Zhou Jin had come to recognize their family.

"Is what Aunt said true? Jin... Brother Jin really came?" His voice was steady, but the slightly faster pace of his speech betrayed his inner turmoil. "In the front hall? Ninth Imperial Uncle is here too?"

“It’s absolutely true. His appearance is extremely similar to yours, and the Ninth Prince is also here.” Gan Muwan nodded, feeling slightly relieved as she looked at Zhou Kang’s calm demeanor despite his excitement. She added, “However… I’ve already been to your mother’s side, and she… she doesn’t want to see her.”

The light in Zhou Kang's eyes dimmed for a moment, but then returned to its clarity. He sighed softly, his tone carrying understanding and a hint of barely perceptible melancholy:

“I understand my mother’s inner conflict. She has suffered too much and does not want to see anyone related to the Zhou family again. I can understand and I don’t blame her.”

He straightened his perfectly wrinkle-free robe:

“But I am different! He and I are siblings from the same mother, connected by blood! The Seventh Prince's Mansion is now in ruins, and besides me, he is all that remains! No matter what Mother decides, I, as the elder brother, must go to see him!”

...

...

The path from Jingxin Garden to the reception room is not long.

But Zhou Kang felt as if every step he took was on the beat of his heartbeat.

As he stepped through the open hall door, his gaze immediately and precisely locked onto the figure sitting in the guest seat.

Despite being mentally prepared, Zhou Kang's heart still felt like it was being gripped tightly by an invisible hand the moment he saw Zhou Jin.

That face, almost identical to his, was now shrouded in an inescapable aura of death and decay. His figure was so thin that it seemed as if a gust of wind could blow him over. Only his eyes, looking at him, held a complex and indescribable emotion: excitement, relief, and a hint of... undisguised envy and sigh.

He took a deep breath, and was the first to look away, turning his gaze to the Ninth Prince in the main seat.

He walked steadily into the hall, lifted the hem of his robe, and performed a deep bow with perfect and respectful posture:
“Nephew Zhou Kang pays his respects to Ninth Imperial Uncle. I am sorry that I was unable to greet you properly on your arrival.”

The Ninth Prince looked at his nephew, who was handsome and composed, and a hint of amazement and satisfaction flashed in his eyes.

"Kang'er, please rise quickly. There's no need for such formalities among family." The Ninth Prince spoke kindly, personally offering a helping hand and beckoning, "Come, come closer to your Imperial Uncle, let your Imperial Uncle take a good look at you."

Zhou Kang stepped forward as instructed. The Ninth Prince reached out and gently placed his hand on Zhou Kang's wrist, a gentle divine sense probing into it.

A moment later, the look of admiration in his eyes deepened.

Zhou Kang's meridians are broad and resilient, his dantian spiritual power is profound and pure, and his foundation is so solid that it far exceeds his expectations. Even in the capital, he is by no means inferior to the chosen ones cultivated by those top sects and aristocratic families!

He was initially worried that the Fu family would not treat Zhou Kang well.

The initial resentment vanished, replaced by a sense of gratitude. The Fu family must have poured their heart and soul into nurturing Zhou Kang to such an outstanding degree.

"Good, very good!" The Ninth Prince released his hand, a rare genuine smile appearing on his face. "Your foundation is solid, your cultivation is refined. The Fu family has raised you very well. Your brother in heaven must be pleased."

“Brother… seeing you like this now… is truly wonderful.” Zhou Jin paused, his eyes somewhat unfocused, as if lost in some hypothetical memory. “If… if you were the one chosen by Grandfather to be sent away back then… with your talent and temperament, under the dedicated guidance of the two protectors, you would probably have already formed your Golden Core and become renowned throughout the region, wouldn’t you?”

His voice lowered, filled with deep helplessness and regret:

"Our Seventh Prince's Mansion... perhaps, wouldn't have ended up in this... dilapidated state because of Father's foolish actions. It is my... incompetence that has failed my grandfather's expectations..."

“Brother Jin, don’t say such foolish things! Life is unpredictable, how can things always go as planned? Grandfather had his reasons for choosing you back then. You must have suffered a lot these past years. The past cannot be changed, and the fact that we brothers can be reunited now is the greatest blessing from heaven!”

They talked for a long time in the hall.

Zhou Jin's gaze involuntarily drifted back to the living room door. The corridor was empty; apart from the Fu family disciples standing guard, he still couldn't see the figure of his mother, whom he both longed for and feared. The faint flame of expectation in his eyes gradually dimmed, finally turning into a barely audible sigh.

Gan Muwan saw this.

With an apologetic expression, he explained gently:

“My sister Yongning has recently reached a critical juncture in her cultivation and is currently in seclusion to break through her bottleneck. She is truly unable to attend to guests. I hope Young Master Jin will understand.”

"It's alright... Seclusion and cultivation are the proper things to do. I understand."

He certainly understood.

From his great-uncle, the Ninth Prince, he had pieced together fragments of information about the grievances his mother had suffered in the Seventh Prince's residence—his father Zhou Xuanming's neglect and abandonment, the deliberate harassment and torment from the old Princess Consort… Those past events, like poisonous thorns, had long since eroded the bond between mother and son, leaving it riddled with holes. His mother's unwillingness to see him was less a matter of cruelty and more a deep-seated, bone-chilling self-protection. Though he felt an unspeakable regret and bitterness, he felt no resentment whatsoever.

But... in his final moments, he was unable to call out "Mother" aloud, unable to see her one last time. This regret will likely carry over into the next life.

Zhou Kang clearly saw the deep disappointment and sorrow hidden in his younger brother's eyes, and he felt equally distressed.

"Brother Jin, don't lose heart! Although your illness is difficult to treat, it's not necessarily hopeless!"

Do you know our maternal grandfather, Fu Changsheng?

Zhou Jin nodded slightly, her eyes looking somewhat blank.

Zhou Kang continued:
"My maternal grandfather was incredibly powerful and his methods were unpredictable!"

Not long ago, my great-grandfather suffered a severe injury from the collapse of his Dao foundation, and my mother also suffered a serious injury years ago, almost losing all her cultivation! Everyone thought there was no hope of recovery, but in the end, it was my maternal grandfather who intervened and pulled them back from the brink of death. Now, not only have they fully recovered from their injuries, but their cultivation has also improved significantly!

His tone was filled with utmost respect and confidence:

"Your strange illness, perhaps... perhaps your grandfather can find a solution!"

“Brother, I appreciate your kindness. However, even the legendary healer Qingmu from Divine Healer Valley has said that this is an incurable disease, and medicine is ineffective. At most, he has only three to five years left to live. The healer's medical skills are profound and his knowledge is extensive. Since he has made this judgment, I'm afraid… alas.”

He paused, seemingly exhausted from speaking so much, and after catching his breath a few times, continued softly:

"To meet my maternal grandfather is already a great blessing, and I dare not ask for anything more."

Seeing his younger brother's dejected state, Zhou Kang felt a heavy weight pressing on his heart, a suffocating pain. He knew that his brother's illness and the successive blows had eroded his will to live. But he himself refused to accept his fate!
"No matter what, you have to try to know!"

"Aunt, please arrange for Grandfather to come back!"

Gan Muwan nodded: "I'll go and inform them right away."

...

...

Eastern Wilderness, Tianyin Mountain.

Fu Changsheng scanned the contents of the jade talisman with his divine sense, but his face showed little surprise. He had already learned from the system's intelligence that Zhou Jin, the grandson of the Seventh Prince, might still be alive and had traveled south with the Ninth Prince.

just.

Zhou Jin's incurable disease was somewhat unexpected to him.

Thinking of the Ninth Prince, Fu Changsheng's eyes turned slightly cold.

His troublesome eldest son, Fu Yongfan, insisted on going to Kyoto to make his way in the world, but later he gradually lost contact with him and eventually lost all contact with him.

The last intelligence indicated that it was very likely hidden in the Prince's mansion.

Whether it was because of his grandson Zhou Jin or to find out the whereabouts of his eldest son Fu Yongfan, he had to go back and see the prince in person.

Once he made up his mind, Fu Changsheng immediately took action.

He immediately summoned Yu Qingru and instructed her:

"Qingru, immediately mobilize all the elite disciples of the Array Formation Hall, carrying the rare materials stored in the warehouse, and build a stable teleportation array between Tianlang Mountain and Tianyin Mountain as quickly as possible!"

"Yes, husband."

Fu Changsheng continued:
"Once this array is completed, we will immediately begin constructing another teleportation array between Tianyin Mountain and Shuiyun Cave in Huiyang County, Wuzhou!"

From now on, Tianyin Mountain will be one of the most important strongholds of the Fu family. We must ensure unimpeded communication with the family headquarters and that resources and personnel can be mobilized quickly.

"Understood," Yu Qingru replied, then asked, "Husband, are you planning to leave Tianyin Mountain?"

“Yes,” Fu Changsheng said in a deep voice, “I need to go back to Wuzhou immediately. Jin’er has returned, along with the Ninth Prince. There are some things that I need to handle personally.”

...

...

Wuzhou, Huizhou Prefecture.

In the reception room.

When Fu Changsheng appeared at the door, it was as if all the light in the hall was focused on him.

Prince Zhou Yong of the Ninth County subconsciously stood up, a hint of amazement flashing across his eyes.

He had already deduced from Fu Yongfan's appearance and demeanor that his father must be extraordinary, but seeing Fu Changsheng in person still exceeded his expectations. The man before him had a handsome face that seemed to be naturally gifted, and a posture as upright as a pine tree. What was even more rare was the natural confidence that surrounded him, as well as a strange, gentle temperament that made people unconsciously feel good, like a spring breeze. It was completely different from Fu Yongfan's restrained toughness, yet it was more charming.

“Fellow Daoist Fu,” the Ninth Prince spoke first.

"Your Highness, I have long admired you."

Fu Changsheng returned the greeting with a cupped hand, his smile warm and his eyes clear, as if he were merely meeting an ordinary distinguished guest. Although he was preoccupied with Fu Yongfan's matter, he showed no sign of it on his face, knowing full well that this matter needed to be handled slowly and carefully, and that he must not alert the enemy.

At this moment, supported by Zhou Kang, Zhou Jin took a few steps forward and was about to kneel down before Fu Changsheng:
"Grandson Zhou Jin greets his maternal grandfather."

Fu Changsheng gently flicked his sleeve, and a soft yet irresistible force lifted Zhou Jin up. "Child, there's no need for such formalities."

His gaze fell on Zhou Jin's face, and with a slight movement of his divine sense, he had already clearly investigated the situation inside her body. The dense death aura and the collapsing vitality made a ripple appear in his calm eyes.

"His injuries are so severe..."

Seeing this, the Ninth Prince quickly interjected, his tone filled with a final hope:

"Fellow Daoist Fu, you are knowledgeable and powerful. I wonder... if you have any way to save Jin'er? If there is even the slightest hope, I... no, I will do everything in my power!"

Fu Changsheng remained silent for a moment.

The Dragon Blood Tree in his Five Elements Space does indeed have the effect of defying fate, but the Dragon Spring Holy Liquid he condensed last time to save Ouyang Feifei has been exhausted, and the Dragon Blood Tree itself also needs time to recover and accumulate.

Right now, there's really nothing we can do.

Looking into the genuine anxiety and earnestness in the Ninth Prince's eyes, a slight thought stirred within him:
"Jin'er's illness has damaged her very essence and eroded her soul; ordinary elixirs and spells are unlikely to be effective. However..."

He paused, causing both the Ninth Prince and Zhou Jin to hold their breath.

"If I could obtain a drop of 'Life Elixir,' I would be 70% confident that I could restore him to his original state."

"Life Elixir?"

Zhou Jin's eyes, which had lit up at her grandfather's words, dimmed again upon hearing the name, and a bitter smile appeared on her lips.

Elixir of Life!

It was a legendary divine object, only mentioned sporadically in ancient texts, and has long since vanished from the world. Perhaps only in those sacred lands with millennia of history, or in unfathomable secret realms, might a glimmer of hope exist. This hope is as faint as a mirage.

However, upon hearing this, the Ninth Prince's gaze suddenly turned ardent, and he stared intently at Fu Changsheng:
"Fellow Daoist, is what you say true? If you obtain the Elixir of Life, are you truly confident you can cure Jin'er?"

Fu Changsheng nodded, his tone certain: "If I weren't confident, why would I speak so rashly?"

"it is good!"

The Ninth Prince suddenly clapped his hands, a resolute look on his face:

"I will return to the capital immediately! If I remember correctly, the royal treasury holds a drop of 'Life Source Water'! This substance is similar in effect to the Life Elixir, and even more refined! I will go and beg my mother; I must obtain this substance no matter what!"

What a twist!

Zhou Jin could hardly believe his ears. Could there really be such a divine object in the royal family's secret collection?
Seeing this, Fu Changsheng's eyes flashed with a sharp light, and he added casually:

"If Your Highness can obtain the Water of Life, that would be the best outcome. In addition, I have another request. My family is building a Trial Tower and urgently needs a 'Cloud Clear Jade' as a core material. When Your Highness returns to the capital, would it be convenient for you to use the clan's channels to exchange for it for me? I can provide the required spirit stones or other equivalent resources in full."

The Ninth Prince's mind was entirely focused on saving Zhou Jin, so upon hearing the request, he agreed without much thought:

"Rest assured, fellow Daoist, I have taken note of this matter. Once Jin'er's condition stabilizes, I will begin to take care of it. Right now, treating Jin'er is the most urgent task; his condition cannot be delayed!"

He acted swiftly and decisively, making arrangements immediately:

"Jin'er, you should rest and recuperate at the Fu family home and wait for good news from your royal uncle. Kang'er, take good care of your younger brother."

He then turned to Fu Changsheng and bowed respectfully:
"Fellow Daoist, I entrust Jin'er to your care. I shall now depart for the capital!"

"Your Highness, please wait."

"Is there anything else you need, fellow Daoist?"

Fu Changsheng said:

"Just now, Jin'er mentioned that your journey to Wuzhou was not peaceful, and you encountered several attacks by unidentified individuals. Although His Highness is heavily guarded, the journey from here to the capital is long, and it is hard to guarantee that there will be no more villains coveting it."

He paused and continued:

“As the maternal grandfather, I cannot remain uninvolved. I will accompany Your Highness to the capital. Firstly, I can protect Your Highness and ensure the smooth acquisition of the elixir; secondly, I have some mundane matters to attend to in the capital.”

Upon hearing this, the Ninth Prince was first taken aback, then his eyes lit up with surprise and gratitude. He quickly cupped his hands in greeting:

"Then... I'll have to trouble you, fellow Daoist."

……

Fu Changsheng was preparing to go to the capital.

Upon hearing the news, Fu Yongning followed him in:

"Father, I want to go too!"

"What brings you to the capital?"

Fu Yongning pursed his lips, making no attempt to hide anything: "The Wood Flying Squirrel's parents are hiding in the capital! I'm going to help Wood Flying Squirrel find them!"

Fu Changsheng looked at his daughter in silence.

Ningning's first runaway was to find the parents of the Wood Flying Squirrel.

If left unchecked, given Yongning's personality, she will surely go to the capital alone in the future. Rather than letting her act rashly and fall into danger, it is better to keep her by my side and place her under my control and protection.

After a moment's thought, Fu Changsheng slowly nodded: "Okay."

A hint of joy flashed in Fu Yongning's eyes.

But Fu Changsheng's tone immediately changed, becoming extremely serious:

"But you must promise your father that you will follow my instructions in all your actions on this trip. You must not act on your own, alert the enemy, or act impulsively and put yourself in danger. If you agree, I will take you with me. If not, you will stay in the clan and continue your cultivation."

"Your daughter obeys! I will follow your instructions completely and will never act on my own!"

"it is good."

……

the other side.

The treasure ship is about to set sail, its light swirling and the array humming.

"Kang'er," the Ninth Prince called out.

Zhou Kang quickly and respectfully replied, "What are your instructions, Imperial Uncle?"

The Ninth Prince took out a beautifully crafted jade box, brimming with spiritual energy, from his storage ring and handed it to Zhou Kang:

"Your cultivation has reached the Pseudo-Core stage, and you are only one step away from the Golden Core path. These are some spiritual items prepared for you by your Imperial Uncle to assist in Core Formation, including a 'Core Condensation Talisman' and three drops of 'Jade Marrow Spiritual Liquid,' which may be of assistance when you break through the bottleneck."

These magical items are priceless treasures on the market, which shows how much effort my imperial uncle put into them.

This is what he urgently needs right now.

The Fu family's Core Formation aid spirit item requires family contribution points to exchange, and there's also a waiting list. His aptitude is still shallow, so he has to rely on himself, who knows when that will take.

Zhou Kang'er quickly accepted it with both hands and bowed deeply:
"Nephew thanks Imperial Uncle for the generous gift!"

The Ninth Prince patted him on the shoulder:

"You can focus on your seclusion and concentrate on breaking through to the Golden Core stage! Your Imperial Uncle and Maternal Grandfather will take care of Jin'er's affairs! You are the hope of my Seventh Brother's lineage. Forming your Golden Core and stabilizing your cultivation as soon as possible will be the greatest comfort and support for your Jin'er! Don't be distracted, we'll take care of everything."

These words acted as a reassurance, instantly dispelling any unease Zhou Kang might have felt.

"Yes! Imperial Grand Uncle! Your nephew will certainly live up to your expectations and do his utmost to break through to the Golden Core stage!"

"Good boy."

...

...

On the outskirts of the capital, in the desolate wilderness, danger looms once more!
Six figures appeared like ghosts, their auras intertwined, forming a profound battle formation that surrounded Fu Changsheng and the Ninth Prince. The immense pressure from the nascent infants merged and overlapped, like a tangible swamp, sealing off the surrounding space.

"It's you again!" The Ninth Prince's face turned ashen, a fierce glint flashing in his eyes. He slammed his hand on his storage bag, and a golden light shot into the sky, transforming into a jade talisman engraved with a phoenix pattern—the very Nascent Soul talisman bestowed upon him by the Eldest Princess!
"The phoenix cries out across the nine heavens, break through!"

The jade talisman exploded, and a golden phoenix phantom roared out, carrying terrifying power at the Nascent Soul level, and crashed fiercely into the six-person battle formation.

"boom--!"

The battle formation's light flickered violently, instantly tearing open a gap. Two Nascent Soul cultivators at the formation's core coughed up blood and flew backward, their auras weakened. However, although the battle formation was broken, four other Nascent Soul cultivators only swayed slightly and were not seriously injured.

"Your Highness, we'll split this evenly!" Fu Changsheng's eyes were icy cold. Before he finished speaking, a burst of seven-colored divine light erupted from his body, and his aura rose steadily, instantly stabilizing at the peak of the Golden Core stage!
"Roar!"

A blue-scaled dragon soared into the sky, clouds and mist arose spontaneously, accompanied by wind and thunder.

"Ow!"

The Chaos Beast roared to the sky, its aura chaotic and swallowing light.

"Chichi-"

The Skeleton Vine burst forth from the earth, its pale joints rubbing together, exuding an aura of death.

The three spirit pets each locked onto a fake infant and pounced on it fiercely!

Fu Changsheng himself transformed into a streak of purple lightning, heading straight for the last fake infant cultivator wielding the ancient bronze mace.

The fake Nascent Soul cultivator snorted coldly, wielding his ancient mace, which stirred up a sky full of azure gales—it was clearly a spiritual treasure as well! At the same time, he formed a hand seal, and a huge illusory image of a Nascent Soul Dharma Image appeared behind him. Although incomplete, it was incredibly powerful. He slammed down with a palm—Nascent Soul Treasure Technique, Mountain-Shaking Seal!
"Well done!"

Three lotus lamps appeared around Fu Changsheng, forming a protective light barrier around him. With his left hand, he formed a hand seal, unleashing a torrent of acquired Five Elements Divine Thunder. The five colors of lightning—metal, wood, water, fire, and earth—intertwined, causing the illusory image of the Mountain-Shaking Seal to flicker. With his right hand, he formed a Heavenly Punishment Thunder Spear, carrying an aura of destruction, and hurled it with tremendous force!
Boom!

The lightning spear clashed with the ancient mace, unleashing a storm of lightning and gale-force winds, leaving the two locked in a stalemate.

Fu Changsheng's mind raced, anticipating a possible countermeasure. A flash of light appeared between his brows, and a nine-leaf sword mushroom materialized. He didn't summon the phantom of an ancient sword, but instead directly activated the supreme sword intent contained within the sword mushroom itself!
"Om-!"

A fierce and incomparable intent, capable of severing everything, swept out, formless and intangible, yet more terrifying than a tangible sword!
The fake infant cultivator was terrified, feeling as if his soul, magic power, and even his connection with the spiritual treasure were about to be severed by this sword intent! His movements involuntarily froze.

"die!"

Seizing this fleeting opening, Fu Changsheng condensed the Heavenly Punishment Thunder Spear once more. The purple divine light struck first, slicing through the opponent's protective aura. The thunder spear, like a meteor piercing the sun, instantly pierced through his chest! The violent power of thunder completely annihilated his life force.

Fu Changsheng waved his hand and collected the corpse along with the bronze ancient mace.

A quick glance revealed that the Chaos Beast was being attacked by another Nascent Soul cultivator who was using lightning magic. Its chaotic energy was churning, and it had already fallen into a disadvantageous position.

"Thunder magic? Playing with thunder in front of me?"

Fu Changsheng snorted coldly, his figure flickering as he joined the battle. He directly drew upon the lightning bolts unleashed by the opponent, forcibly controlling them with the Ancient Origin Thunder Scripture, causing them to recoil back. At the same time, the Heavenly Punishment Thunder Spear was unleashed once more!
The fake infant cultivator hadn't expected Fu Changsheng to be able to control his lightning. Caught off guard, he was struck simultaneously by his own lightning technique and the Heavenly Punishment Lightning Spear. He screamed in agony as his protective magic treasure shattered, and the Chaos Beast seized the opportunity to swallow most of his body in one gulp. Fu Changsheng then finished him off with a fatal blow.

On the other side, the Azure Dragon, relying on its physical body and the power of wind and thunder, and the Skeleton Demon Vine, relying on its unpredictable entanglement and devouring, had also dealt with their respective opponents.

Fu Changsheng remained expressionless as he swept the battlefield clean.

At this moment, the Ninth Prince's side was in dire straits.

Although he was quite strong, he was already struggling against two well-coordinated fake infant cultivators, and he had several wounds on his body. It seemed that he was about to be defeated.

Seeing their companions perish, the two fake infant cultivators were filled with fear. They made a feint and transformed into two streaks of light to escape.

"Want to go?"

Fu Changsheng leaped onto the azure dragon. The azure dragon let out a dragon's roar, and the clouds on both sides gathered, transforming into huge cloud dragon wings, which suddenly flapped! Its speed suddenly exploded, even faster than the escape light of an ordinary early Nascent Soul cultivator, and it instantly caught up with the two of them.

"Thunder Spear, vanquish evil!"

Fu Changsheng unleashed the full power of the Heavenly Punishment Thunder Spear, pouring his mana into it. The spear hummed, its surface runes bursting forth with unprecedented brilliance, its aura suddenly escalating—it had actually advanced to a mid-grade fifth-tier spiritual treasure!

"Whizzing!"

Two extremely condensed bolts of lightning shot out, precisely piercing the backs of the two nascent soul cultivators. The lightning exploded, turning them into ashes.

The Ninth Prince was utterly shocked by what he saw, especially by the Heavenly Punishment Thunder Spear, whose aura was even stronger than before, and by Fu Changsheng's endless stream of powerful methods.

He originally thought he had overestimated his in-laws, but he never expected their strength to be so terrifying!
Immediately, a chill ran through him. He suddenly thought of Fu Yongfan, whom he had imprisoned for many years… What if Fu Changsheng found out about this…

The Ninth Prince's Adam's apple bobbed, and his eyes shifted uncertainly.

frank?

If Fu Changsheng were to act in a fit of rage in this desolate wilderness, I would have no chance of survival.

He forcibly suppressed the urge to confess immediately, thinking to himself:
"No, we absolutely cannot say that here."

Once I return to the capital, I will prepare an apology gift that will surely win his heart. Then, I will find a safe place and, by leveraging the improved relationship between Jin'er and Kang'er, I will hope that, considering our blood ties and the potential for mutual benefit, he... he should not kill me..."

Thinking of this, the Ninth Prince forced a smile and stepped forward, cupping his hands in greeting:

"Fellow Daoist Fu is incredibly powerful. I am also very grateful for your help today, otherwise I would have been in grave danger."

Fu Changsheng retrieved the Azure Dragon and his spirit pet, glanced at the Ninth Prince with a deep gaze, and simply said:

"Your Highness is too kind, please go."

...

...

Beneath the Jade Tablet of Merit and Honor, in the Hall of Heavenly Patrol.

As usual, the patrolling angels who came and went to hand over tasks and exchange resources either stopped to take a look or glanced at them in a hurry.

However, when some people habitually turn their gaze to the top twenty rankings that represent the highest honor and strength, their pupils shrink almost simultaneously, and they let out a low gasp of disbelief.

"Look! Fu Changsheng! His ranking... has changed again!"

This exclamation instantly attracted the attention of everyone around.

All eyes turned to the gleaming name above the jade disc—

18th place: Fu Changsheng
"He's eighteenth! It was already astonishing when he broke into the top twenty last time, but now he's jumped two places and is closing in on the top fifteen!"

"The top twenty...aren't they all monstrous geniuses? They have accumulated immense wealth and possess extraordinary abilities. Advancing even one rank is incredibly difficult, requiring them to complete extremely dangerous missions or achieve great feats! This Fu Changsheng...he's simply been advancing triumphantly all the way, unstoppable!"

A buzz of discussion immediately filled the hall, and everyone's face was filled with shock and emotion.

Most of them were Golden Core cultivators, deeply aware of the difficulties of cultivation, and even more so of what it meant to be among the top twenty of these genius-filled Imperial Guardians. It was not merely an accumulation of merit, but a symbol of absolute strength!
"I remember when he first joined, he was completely unknown. How many years has it been? He has risen to such a high level!"

"I've heard that his magical power far surpasses that of others of the same level, and he possesses an endless stream of supernatural abilities and magical treasures, having slain numerous powerful enemies. Judging from this momentum, I'm afraid... he's not far from condensing his Nascent Soul, is he?"

"Nascent Soul..." someone murmured, repeating the two words, their eyes filled with longing and a hint of awe. Once Fu Changsheng successfully forms his Nascent Soul, given the terrifying potential he has already displayed, to what extent will his strength skyrocket? He will likely become a very important figure among these patrolling angels!

"It seems that the landscape of the Prodigy Ranking is about to change again because of him."

...

...

Prince’s Mansion, study.

The wisps of smoke rising from the gilded incense burner could not dispel the heavy killing intent in the room. Crown Prince Sun stood with his hands behind his back by the window, his figure stiff. He had just heard his subordinates' report that the six fake Nascent Soul cultivators he had sent to intercept and kill the Ninth Prince and Fu Changsheng had all had their soul lamps extinguished; the mission… had utterly failed.

"Six fake infants, forming a battle formation, and even using Nascent Soul talismans... and they were all wiped out?" Crown Prince Sun's voice was low, trembling with disbelief. He turned around abruptly, his eyes flashing with cold light. "Say it again, who orchestrated the battle?"

The black-clad spy kneeling below lowered his head even further and replied with difficulty:
"Your Highness, based on the remaining battlefield atmosphere and limited intelligence, the main combat force... was that Fu Changsheng. He... he single-handedly fought two fake infants and swiftly killed them, then assisted his spirit pet in dealing with the other two, and finally chased after the two who fled, personally killing them..."

"Fu Changsheng?" Crown Prince Sun slammed his palm on the rosewood table beside him, instantly cracking the hard surface. "A sixth-rank family head from some remote place dares to ruin my grand plan!"

"Investigate! Investigate thoroughly for me! Everything about this Fu Changsheng—his cultivation level, techniques, spirit pets, magic treasures, interpersonal relationships—everything, big or small, must be thoroughly investigated for me!"

"Yes!" The spy acknowledged the order and quickly withdrew.

Several days later, more detailed intelligence was placed on the Crown Prince's desk.

When he saw that Fu Changsheng had been able to slay the fake infant decades ago, and was now ranked eighteenth on the list of merits of the Imperial Guardian, his face turned completely gloomy.

"Eighteenth on the Imperial Envoy's Merit List..." The Crown Prince's fingers tapped the table unconsciously, his eyes as cold as knives. "Which of those guys in the top twenty isn't a prodigy with the potential to reach the Nascent Soul stage? This kid's growth rate is terrifying!"

Especially when he saw that Fu Changsheng and the Ninth Prince were related by marriage, alarm bells went off in his mind.

The Ninth Prince is the son of the Eldest Princess, and he was already at odds with the Crown Prince's faction. If we add Fu Changsheng, whose potential is so terrifying, to the mix...

"This child must not be allowed to live!" The Crown Prince's eyes flashed with murderous intent. "If he successfully condenses his Nascent Soul, his displayed combat prowess and his closeness to the Ninth Prince and the Eldest Princess will undoubtedly become a huge obstacle to Father's succession to the throne! He must be nipped in the bud before he reaches Nascent Soul!"

He pondered for a moment, then summoned another trusted confidant and whispered the instructions:

"Intelligence indicates that Fu Changsheng has arrived in the capital with the Ninth Prince. Issue the order to utilize all our informants in the capital to keep a close watch on him! Find out his whereabouts and location. Within the capital, look for an opportunity… I will ensure he never returns!"

"Yes, Your Highness! I will make the arrangements immediately!"

The trusted confidant accepted the order and left.

The Crown Prince walked to the window, gazing in the direction of the palace with a sinister look in his eyes.

"Fu Changsheng... the capital city will be your burial ground!"

A boy from a remote place could never have imagined how deep the waters were in the capital.

(End of this chapter)