After returning to the Ling Family, Ling Chen was immediately summoned by Ling Tingfeng.

As expected, having brilliantly completed the task of eliminating the internal traitor, Ling Chen successfully earned the right to cultivate the "Golden Sword Pupil".

"I've received a detailed report from the Fourth Elder about your deeds. This time, you've done exceptionally well, leaving those who initially opposed you speechless and without reason to object."

In the main hall of the Ling Family, Ling Chen met with Ling Tingfeng. At the moment they saw Ling Chen, a satisfied smile appeared on Ling Tingfeng's lips. Obviously, Ling Chen's perfect completion of the task had taken even him slightly by surprise.

"I was fortunate not to disappoint the Patriarch's expectations."

Ling Chen cupped his fists, maintaining a calm demeanor without any complacency.

"I heard that you were able to defeat two Half-Saints from the Witch Fiend Sect this time because of a secret technique you were cultivating? This technique helped you break through two levels of cultivation consecutively, thus turning the tide and achieving victory?"

A glint flashed through Ling Tingfeng's eyes as he suddenly spoke.

Ling Chen was startled by this sudden question. He had thought it wouldn't reach Ling Tingfeng's ears, yet here it was, known by the latter.

"Yes, indeed, there is such a secret technique—something I stumbled upon by chance."

Ling Chen didn't intentionally hide the truth. Since the other party was already aware, there was nothing he could do about it. Although the Ancient Saint King Battle Technique was rare, it was only effective below the level of a Saint. Therefore, Ling Chen didn't believe Ling Tingfeng would covet it to the point of doing anything detrimental to him.

However, this was just Ling Chen's assumption. Since Ling Tingfeng already knew, there was no point in hiding it further.

"You, little fellow, are indeed as cautious as Ling Xue described."

As Ling Chen took a moment to think before speaking, Ling Tingfeng smiled slightly, his wise, ocean-like eyes seeming to see through Ling Chen's current thoughts.

Ling Chen could only remain silent, as certain things required him to keep such caution in his heart.

"This secret technique is indeed quite precious, but not everyone in this world harbors a wolf's heart. Even beyond this secret technique, no matter how rare the treasures are, I would not entertain any evil thoughts." Ling Tingfeng shook his head with a gentle smile, causing the tension in Ling Chen's heart to ease a little.

Ling Chen looked up at Ling Tingfeng's gentle, smiling face, and the concealed wariness in his eyes subtly faded. Over the years, he had encountered many types of people, and from subtle cues, he could sense the person before him possessed an inclusiveness akin to Embracing All Rivers.

This man truly embodied the magnanimity of the head of a grand family, an Imperial Court Grand Marshal.

"I was too narrow-minded," Ling Chen admitted, feeling somewhat embarrassed as he cupped his hands.

"I understand some of your experiences. This caution might be something you have to possess. In the past, you were alone and could only act with extreme care to preserve your life."

"But now, remember one thing: as long as you are a member of the Ling Family, this family will stand behind you."

"Now, you are no longer alone. Behind you is a solid backing that will support you wherever you are."

Hearing this, Ling Chen couldn't help but feel a chord deep within him being struck. It had been a long time since anyone had said such words to him. Not even the Divine Intent Sect, Saint Witch Religion, or even the Cyan Robe Association had managed to stir this emotion within him.

Who would've thought that the Ling Family could touch his innermost feelings?

Perhaps it was because his own bloodline came from the Ling Family?

"The Patriarch's words almost make me want to go through fire and water for the family without hesitation," Ling Chen said with a smile, shaking his head.

Looking at the Ling Family Patriarch before him, Ling Chen held little awe but sincerely admired Ling Tingfeng. If he hadn't joined the Ling Family with an ulterior motive, constantly resisting emotional attachment, he might now be wholeheartedly committed to the family, swearing to bring glory to it.

"Haven't you already done so?"

Ling Tingfeng responded with a smile.

"Although you did it to earn the chance to cultivate the Golden Sword Pupil and strengthen yourself, you did capture the traitor and contribute to the family. Moreover, your upcoming participation in the Heavenly Sword Tournament will bring honor to the family."

"I will strive with all my might to bring honor to the family," Ling Chen nodded.

"Cultivating the Golden Sword Pupil demands stringent conditions. The higher the strength, the greater the probability of success," Ling Tingfeng continued, his tone taking a turn as he asked with a smile, "It seems you're about to make a breakthrough, aren't you?"

Ling Chen nodded again, not finding it surprising. At Ling Tingfeng's level, discerning his current cultivation status wasn't difficult.

"Since you've achieved a great merit, you deserve a reward," Ling Tingfeng said, waving his hand as a wall behind him suddenly opened, revealing a chamber. Inside, a vast light array emerged, its light spreading and enveloping the chamber, emanating an astonishing energy fluctuation.

"This is where I usually cultivate. Inside is an Advanced Spirit Gathering Array, something I recently set up for my upcoming retreat and breakthrough. Before that, you may enter the array to cultivate. I believe it will aid you in completing your breakthrough. I will personally protect you while you're in there," Ling Tingfeng pointed to the array within the chamber.

Ling Chen gazed at the tremendous fluctuations emanating from the chamber, quietly amazed. As expected of an Advanced Spirit Gathering Array, the energy gathered within was incredibly abundant and pure.

"Go ahead."

Ling Tingfeng turned his gaze toward the chamber, waving his sleeve to activate the mechanism. The array within the chamber suddenly began to operate.

Seeing this, Jingben didn't hesitate any longer. With a swift movement, he flew toward the chamber's interior, descending slowly onto the Advanced Spirit Gathering Array.

Sitting down within the array, Ling Chen glanced around, seeing countless energy threads extending outward from his center, forming a faintly discernible array outline.

It was clear this was a significantly large-scale formation. Simply sitting here, Ling Chen could feel streams of vigorous energy continuously drilling into his body.

"Truly an excellent place for cultivation..."

Ling Chen couldn't help but murmur appreciatively. However, it was unfortunate that this place was meant for Ling Tingfeng, the Patriarch, to cultivate, and he was merely being allowed in as an exception to aid his breakthrough.

He couldn't waste Ling Tingfeng's goodwill.