Protect Our Patriarch-Chapter 54Book 6: : Guard the bloodline of Zhe and ascend! Saint Venerable Yunpeng

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Tianrui Outer Sea.

In the vast and turbulent outer sea, there were terrifying hurricanes and chaotic currents, with towering waves raging wildly. The environment was extremely harsh.

Beneath those majestic waves, one could occasionally glimpse some massive shadows, as if some gigantic creatures were lurking in the shadows, ready to devour anyone at any moment.

For mortals and ordinary Basalt cultivators, the outer sea was undoubtedly a perilous place. A hurricane, a giant wave, or a chaotic current could all trigger catastrophic disasters.

Even for cultivators in the Purple Mansion Realm or Divine Realm, recklessly venturing into the outer sea was extremely dangerous, and a single mistake could lead to death and the end of one's path.

It was said that deeper in the outer sea lay the terrifying "Endless Abyss," where space, ocean, and void were shattered and chaotic, and even True Immortal Realm experts dared not venture there lightly.

However, the more dangerous a place, the more it often promised astonishing rewards.

Some families at the end of their rope, Basalt cultivators, and even wanted criminals, all ventured into the Tianrui Outer Sea to try their luck for survival. Those with good fortune might stumble upon treasures and become wealthy, while the unlucky ones would vanish into the vast sea, never to be seen again.

Over time, exploring the Tianrui Outer Sea became a business.

Some isolated archipelagos gradually developed into resting places over the long years, eventually giving rise to the "Chaotic Archipelago" power in the outer sea.

This place was not under the jurisdiction of the Tianrui Holy Dynasty or the Tianxing Holy Dynasty. It was a chaotic gathering place where all kinds of crimes were rampant, and murder and treasure snatching were common occurrences. 𝒻𝑟𝘦𝘦𝘸ℯ𝒷𝑛𝘰𝓋ℯ𝘭.𝘤𝘰𝘮

Back then, the previous generation of Void Realm True Immortal Seed from the Tianrui Jiang's Clan set out on an adventure with their "friend" from the Tianxing Wu Clan in the Chaotic Archipelago. They were fortunate to find a Small World relic, which led to a "traditional drama" of murder and treasure snatching.

This incident subsequently fermented, changing the fate of the Tianrui Jiang's Clan and nearly sparking a war between the Tianrui and Tianxing Holy Dynasties, with far-reaching consequences.

At this moment.

A silver-gray fully enclosed flying boat was traversing the skies above the chaotic outer sea.

In this dangerous place where hurricanes raged and giant waves surged, this flying boat flew effortlessly, as if it were walking on flat ground. Even when encountering giant waves and dangers, the flying boat would simply perform a spatial teleportation to safely avoid them.

This flying boat was none other than Wang Shouzhe's "Heavenly Void Cloud Boat."

As a mini private Domain-Crossing Flying Boat, the Heavenly Void Cloud Boat could directly traverse spatial tunnels and even perform short-distance spatial jumps and teleportations. Naturally, the storms raging above the chaotic outer sea posed no trouble for it.

Inside the Cloud Boat.

After coming into Wang Shouzhe's possession, it had undergone another round of modifications, creating a unique space.

Inside, there were small courtyards, a study, guest rooms, and even small bridges with flowing water and various vibrant spirit plants, making it a complete mobile villa.

In the guest room.

Wang Shouzhe sat cross-legged, surrounded by life source profound energy as thick as water. With his breathing, this life source profound energy pulsed gently as if it had life, inhaling and exhaling slowly and rhythmically.

Under the light, the contours of his side profile appeared particularly gentle, and his entire being seemed to be enveloped in a hazy glow. Even his rain-blue long robe seemed to exude a touch of immortality, deep and distant, making people involuntarily captivated.

No one knew how much time had passed before Wang Shouzhe opened his eyes and exhaled a breath of stale air, his deep eyes now containing a hint of vitality.

"Congratulations, Master, congratulations."

Sensing the movement, Lu Xiaoyi, who had been squatting on the coffee table like an ornament, immediately floated up, fluttering around Wang Shouzhe like a butterfly, showering him with flattery: "Master's bloodline evolution is complete, invincible in the universe."

"There's no such thing as invincible," Wang Shouzhe said with a smile as he stood up. "A Manifestation Pill worth thirty Immortal Spirit Stones only improved my bloodline a little. The difficulty of enhancing a bloodline at the level of a Quasi-Holy Son is indeed immense."

This Manifestation Pill was part of the first batch of pills that Dongfang Zhenyuan, the Hall Master of the Divine Treasure Hall, had gathered for him, and there were three in total.

After some consideration, Wang Shouzhe decided to use one for himself.

Shouzhe's bloodline aptitude was originally at the upper end of Quasi-Holy Son level D, close to the peak, and only a little short of level C. For "ordinary" people, the Manifestation Pill had the effect of defying fate, but for him, it only slightly improved his bloodline.

Fortunately, Wang Shouzhe was already close to level C, and this Manifestation Pill finally broke through the shackles of level D, elevating his bloodline aptitude to level C, a small but significant advancement.

"Master, you're already at level C, isn't that invincible?" Lu Xiaoyi continued to flatter with a giggle. "When we reach the Void Realm and inherit the Green Emperor Sacred Diagram from the old master, your bloodline might not reach level A, but it will at least be level B, much stronger than the old master back in the day."

Back when the Holy Emperor of Shenwu inherited the Sacred Diagram, his aptitude only reached the mid-level of Quasi-Holy Son level D, similar to Qingyuan Holy Son and Saintess of Shuiyue, far from Shouzhe's level.

As for Wang Shouzhe... the enhancement effect of the Sacred Diagram on bloodline aptitude was indeed strong, but that was for Void Realm experts with Heavenly Son level A or B aptitude. Wang Shouzhe's bloodline aptitude was already at the Quasi-Holy Son level, so the enhancement effect of the Sacred Diagram wouldn't be as exaggerated.

Of course, the bloodline enhancement effect was also directly related to the quality of the Sacred Diagram, and Lu Xiaoyi's current judgment was just speculation.

"I'm just a bit higher in bloodline," Wang Shouzhe remained humble. "The Holy Emperor of Shenwu ended the chaos, founded a Holy Dynasty, and successfully repelled the invasion of the Demon Realm. His achievements and merits far surpass mine."

"Yes, yes, the old master was excellent, but you, young master, are even stronger," Lu Xiaoyi continued to flatter. "Following you, young master, I just want to witness your future great achievements and contribute my small part to the course of history."

As a top-tier sacred artifact, Lu Xiaoyi was now filled with a sense of crisis, feeling that he could be abandoned at any moment, so he could only rely on flattering to cling to his master's thigh.

"Young master, here's some 'Heavenly Fat Fragrance Fresh Fish Porridge' I made for you. Have a few bowls while it's fresh."

At this moment, Jiang Muxian, who was becoming more accustomed to her role as a personal maid, noticed the movement in the room and knew that Wang Shouzhe had finished cultivating. She timely brought in spirit rice porridge to replenish his energy and blood.

This former direct descendant of the Immortal Clan now kept various culinary and gourmet appreciation books by her bedside to better serve Wang Shouzhe. Her favorite was the "Li Ci Three-Star Food Guide - Tianrui Holy Dynasty Edition."

The "Heavenly Fat Fragrance Fresh Fish Porridge" was her attempt to replicate a dish from the guide, known for its delicious taste and ability to replenish energy and blood.

The aroma of the fish porridge made Wang Shouzhe's mouth water, and he immediately took a bowl to enjoy.

While Wang Shouzhe savored the delicious porridge and replenished his energy and blood, the Heavenly Void Cloud Boat continued its journey under the control of the spirit artifact, following the predetermined route deeper into the outer sea.

***

Around the same time.

Wenyu Prince's Residence.

In the study, Prince Wenyu was busy reviewing memorials sent from his fiefdom when an attendant reported, "Your Highness, Lord Yao Xingshu requests an audience."

Without looking up, Prince Wenyu casually said, "Let him in."

As one of his most important advisors, Yao Xingshu frequently visited to discuss matters, so his visit at this time was not unusual, and Prince Wenyu paid it no mind.

Before long, Yao Xingshu was led into the study by the attendant.

However, unlike usual, Yao Xingshu's steps were hurried, and his expression was grave, far from his usual graceful demeanor.

Noticing this, Prince Wenyu paused in his writing, surprised, "What's happened?"

"Your Highness, urgent news from the 'Fragrant Yao Consort,'" Yao Xingshu said with a serious expression, bowing briefly before speaking directly, "Lüqiu Qingyang's bloodline aptitude has broken through."

Prince Wenyu's expression changed, and the casual and relaxed demeanor on his face vanished without a trace.

He set down his pen and asked coldly, "What happened?"

Yao Xingshu, feeling the pressure from Prince Wenyu's gaze, continued to report, "Just recently, Lüqiu Qingyang entered the Holy Emperor's Palace to meet His Majesty the Holy Emperor and hasn't come out since. According to usual practice, she should be staying at the Holy Emperor's Palace for a while to get closer to the Holy Emperor."

"Our people didn't pay much attention to this, as Lüqiu Qingyang is quite favored by the Holy Emperor."

"But today, the Fragrant Yao Consort heard that Lüqiu Qingyang's bloodline aptitude has broken through to Heavenly Daughter level A, and the Holy Emperor plans to confer her the title of 'Princess' with the title 'Qingyang.'"

"The officials of the Holy Emperor's Palace are already drafting the decree, and it is expected to be officially announced at the small court meeting, proclaiming it to the world."

Yao Xingshu detailed the news from the Holy Emperor's Palace.

It should be noted that a princess of the Tianrui Holy Dynasty, like a prince, had the right of succession. Since Lüqiu Qingyang was being conferred as a princess, it meant she officially became one of the Quasi-Holy Sons/Daughters, qualifying her to compete for the throne in the future.

The more Prince Wenyu listened, the darker his expression became, and by the end, he was almost gritting his teeth: "Well, Lüqiu Qingyang, you've really given this prince a big surprise~"

Initially, he had tried to win over Lüqiu Qingyang because she seemed playful and uninterested in the throne, hoping to gain her support in his quest for the throne. After all, the East Sea Immortal King's Mansion was known for its strength, which would be beneficial to him.

He never expected that she would suddenly break through in bloodline aptitude without any warning and be conferred as a princess.

"By the way," Yao Xingshu suddenly remembered something and added, "Do you remember, Your Highness, that according to reports from our spies, Wang Shouzhe was once invited to Qingyang Immortal Mansion and stayed for three days and nights before leaving? Then, a few days ago, the True Lord of Qinghe from the East Sea Immortal King's Mansion suddenly arrived in the Holy City and went straight to Qingyang Immortal Mansion. After that, Lüqiu Qingyang went to the Holy Emperor's Palace. Your Highness, do you think there might be a connection between these events?"

Wang Shouzhe?

Prince Wenyu's heart stirred as he recalled the scene when he met Wang Shouzhe.

Heh~ Lüqiu Qingyang, that girl, acted like a chaste maiden in front of me, but it turns out she was cozying up to Wang Shouzhe behind my back.

That little girl hid it well~~ she's about to stab this prince in the back.

"Since she is ungrateful, she can't blame me," Prince Wenyu's eyes turned cold, and a sneer appeared at the corner of his mouth, "If she thinks she can compete with this prince for the position of Holy Emperor, she's still too green."

***

The news of Lüqiu Qingyang being conferred as "Princess Qingyang" hadn't spread in the Holy City yet, but it was foreseeable that when the news was officially announced, it would trigger a storm, possibly changing the entire situation of the Tianrui Holy Dynasty.

Of course, these are matters for later and will not be discussed for now.

While the winds of change were brewing in the Tianrui Holy City, the instigator of it all, Wang Shouzhe, aboard his Heavenly Void Cloud Boat, finally arrived outside the Immortal's Cave Mansion relic that had sparked the dispute.

Even in the Tianrui Outer Sea, this location was extremely remote, and due to the lack of valuable resources nearby, few cultivators visited.

But at this moment, the place was bustling.

Originally buried beneath the sea, the Immortal's Cave Mansion was very well hidden. Now, it had been moved to the sea surface by the joint efforts of the Tianrui Sima Clan and the Tianxing Guimei Clan's two Holy Sovereigns.

Even though it had emerged, the exterior of the Immortal's Cave Mansion still looked like a barren, desolate little island.

Under the long-standing confrontation between the two Holy Clans, several flying boats had gathered here, and a little further away, two small floating fortresses hovered, one on each side, clearly in a standoff.

Obviously, both Holy Clans were determined to obtain this Immortal's Cave Mansion.

In their eyes, the Tianxing Wu Clan and the Tianrui Jiang's Clan were just runners-up, and the champion of this Four-Way Competition was bound to be between the two of them.

Therefore, even with the arrival of Wang Shouzhe, Immortal Lord Haoran, Jiang Muxian, and others, the two Holy Clans didn't pay much attention.

The Heavenly Void Cloud Boat quietly hovered not far from the small desolate island, and the people on board didn't disembark, intending to wait for the Four-Way Competition to begin from the comfort of the boat.

However, while others didn't recognize Wang Shouzhe's Heavenly Void Cloud Boat, there were those who did.

"Brother Shouzhe."

Not long after the Heavenly Void Cloud Boat stopped, a figure in green and a graceful silhouette appeared almost simultaneously outside the Cloud Boat.

It was Qingyuan Holy Son and Saintess of Shuiyue, visiting together.

Wang Shouzhe immediately welcomed them into the central reception hall of the Cloud Boat, ordered spirit fruits to be served, and personally brewed immortal tea to entertain them.

"I didn't expect to see both of you here."

"Sigh~" Qingyuan Holy Son sighed with a complex expression, "This Immortal's Cave Mansion relic has caused such a stir. As transcendent local powers, Yunhai Cave Heaven and Shuiyue Cave Heaven couldn't possibly stay completely uninvolved."

"Fortunately, Yunpeng Holy Sovereign arrived in time. Under his mediation, the Sima and Guimei Clans reluctantly agreed to sit down and discuss, coming up with a solution acceptable to both parties, thus preventing further escalation of the conflict."

Mentioning this solution, Qingyuan Holy Son glanced apologetically at Immortal Lord Haoran and Jiang Muxian.

It was evident that this solution was unfavorable to the Jiang Clan.

He and Saintess of Shuiyue were invited here as representatives of Yunhai Cave Heaven and Shuiyue Cave Heaven, respectively, to oversee and witness the "fairness" of the Four-Way Competition.

After all, compared to the Tianxing Holy Dynasty and the Tianrui Holy Dynasty, they, as neutral forces, would undoubtedly be more impartial, and their judgments would be more convincing.

But everyone knew what kind of competition this really was.

Qingyuan Holy Son didn't have much hope for Jiang Muxian of the Jiang Clan, not believing she could win the Four-Way Competition.

"Hahaha~" Immortal Lord Haoran didn't mind at all and laughed, "We're grateful to have the opportunity to participate in the competition, thanks to the support of the Cave Heavens. As long as there's no favoritism or cheating during the competition, we of the Jiang Clan have no complaints."

"Rest assured, Old Jiang," Qingyuan Holy Son said, his expression turning serious, "With the rules already established, if anyone dares to cheat, Yunhai Cave Heaven will not stand idly by. Shuiyue, what do you think?"

Saintess of Shuiyue, who had been quietly sipping immortal tea, raised her head slightly and said two words: "That's right."

Her calm and peaceful demeanor was like that of a meditative monk.

"?"

Qingyuan Holy Son glanced sideways.

What was up with Shuiyue today? She was so quiet, unlike her usual boisterous self.

He couldn't help but scrutinize Saintess of Shuiyue.

Today, she wore a dress of ethereal feathers, sat upright, her expression cold and aloof, her demeanor ethereal and otherworldly, perfectly embodying the image of a Cave Heaven Saintess.

This posture was familiar to him. Saintess of Shuiyue usually put on this facade when she was pretending to be dignified in front of unfamiliar people.

Logically, she had met Brother Shouzhe before, and Brother Shouzhe had seen her boisterous side, so there was no need to be so distant and unfamiliar.

Unfortunately, no matter how much Qingyuan Holy Son racked his brain, he couldn't figure out what had happened between Saintess of Shuiyue and Wang Shouzhe.

It was a tragic story of a "Five-Poison Saintess" heavily in debt, ultimately forced to sell herself to a capitalist as a worker.

And to maintain the reputation of Shuiyue Cave Heaven and protect Wang Shouzhe's secret, Saintess of Shuiyue had to pretend they weren't very familiar in public. To avoid saying too much and slipping up, she didn't dare to speak much, and it was quite stifling for her.

As they were chatting.

Suddenly.

A hearty and authoritative voice penetrated the Heavenly Void Cloud Boat, reaching them without any hindrance: "Qingyuan boy, don't think you can hide with your friend, and I won't find you."

Although the Heavenly Void Cloud Boat hadn't activated its protective shield or any isolation formations, its material naturally interfered with divine sense, and even a True Immortal Realm expert might not be able to clearly sense the situation inside.

To penetrate it so effortlessly, the strength of the newcomer was evident.

"Yunpeng Holy Sovereign!" Qingyuan Holy Son's expression immediately turned into a bitter gourd face, muttering helplessly, "This one really is persistent~"

Yunpeng Holy Sovereign?

Wang Shouzhe's eyes narrowed slightly.

Was this the Holy Sovereign who had specially come from the Primordial Dao Palace to mediate?

"Qingyuan boy's friend, would you be willing to invite this old man for a cup of tea?" Yunpeng Holy Sovereign's cheerful voice came from outside the Heavenly Void Cloud Boat again.

Since a Holy Sovereign had spoken, there was no room for refusal.

Wang Shouzhe glanced at Qingyuan Holy Son and, seeing no objection from him, laughed heartily, "So it's the famous Yunpeng Holy Sovereign. Forgive my rudeness, I'll come out to welcome you."

"Haha~ No need to come out, young man. I'll come in myself." Yunpeng Holy Sovereign laughed happily, and with a teleportation, he appeared at the entrance of the Heavenly Void Cloud Boat, striding inside.

Qingyuan Holy Son suddenly remembered something and quickly transmitted a message to Wang Shouzhe: "Brother, although Yunpeng Holy Sovereign has a good temperament, don't mention you're Lici's Fourth Uncle. Just pretend you don't know Lici. Remember, remember!"

Wang Shouzhe's expression froze, his eyes turning slightly strange.

Uh... could it be that Yunpeng Holy Sovereign was another victim of Lici?

He recalled that during his last visit to Yunhai Cave Heaven, Qingyuan Holy Son had indeed mentioned that Lici and her master had gone to the Primordial Dao Palace. Could it be...

While he was pondering, Yunpeng Holy Sovereign's figure had already passed through the corridor and appeared before them.

He looked about forty years old, with a majestic and heroic appearance. The wide robe he wore didn't seem ethereal at all, but rather added a touch of grandeur.

He glanced disdainfully at Qingyuan Holy Son: "You brat, whispering and muttering, you weren't badmouthing me, were you? Are you itching for a beating?"

"How could I~" Qingyuan Holy Son quickly coughed, putting on a flattering smile, "Master, I was just introducing your great achievements to Brother Shouzhe, saying you have a good character and treat people kindly."

While he spoke flattering words, a thousand grass mud horses galloped through his mind.

Yunpeng, you old fellow, you suffered a big loss at the hands of my master and Lici, and instead of going after them, you keep picking on me. What's the deal with that?

That's called bullying the weak, you know?

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