Chapter 108: Father’s Friend!

Yunzhou, Taian County City.

“Is this where Xia Long settled his children?”

Lu Changsheng looked at the ordinary courtyard before him.

Because Xia Long frequently traveled and had some enemies.

He didn’t keep his children with him.

Instead, he settled them in the secular world and asked an old servant to look after them.

“Knock, knock, knock!”

Lu Changsheng stepped forward and knocked on the door.

Soon, the door creaked open.

“Young master, who are you looking for?”

The door was opened by a girl in a pale blue silk dress.

She looked about fifteen or sixteen, with a slightly youthful oval face matching a shapely figure, full of youthful vitality.

At one glance, Lu Changsheng could see the girl had cultivation.

But it was only at the second level of Qi Refining.

“Is this Xia Long’s daughter?”

“Unexpectedly, Xia Long, with his thick eyebrows and big eyes, has such a beautiful daughter!”

Lu Changsheng was slightly surprised.

Immediately, he smiled and said, “Is this the home of Xia Guang?”

Xia Long’s real name was Xia Guang; Xia Long was just an alias.

“Yes, young master, are you here to see my father?”

Asked the young girl.

“I am Xia Guang’s friend, entrusted by him to come.”

Lu Changsheng said softly.

“Father’s friend? Entrusted to come?”

The girl paused slightly at these words.

Then she invited Lu Changsheng into the courtyard.

In the courtyard, there was also an old man with gray hair, dressed in a gray long robe.

“Miss, who is this?”

The old man, noticing Lu Changsheng, immediately showed a cautious expression and asked.

Lu Changsheng knew this old man was the servant Xia Long arranged for his children.

The old man hadn’t cultivated immortality but practiced martial arts.

He was a master of Innate Martial Arts.

“This young master is Father’s friend, entrusted by him to come.”

Said Xia Zhiyue with a crisp voice.

“Master’s friend?”

The old servant, still cautious, said.

“Rest assured, I am indeed entrusted by Xia Guang.”

Lu Changsheng saw the old man’s wariness and said calmly.

He slightly raised his hand, and a flame appeared, making the air hot.

“So, it’s the honored Immortal Master, pardon my offense, please forgive me!”

Seeing Lu Changsheng’s skill, the old servant saluted.

“I don’t know what father entrusted you with.”

After inviting Lu Changsheng into the living room, Xia Zhiyue lightly bit her lip, nervous yet hopeful.

Her father never brought friends nor allowed them to visit.

This time, he entrusted a friend to come, leaving a foreboding feeling in her heart.

Seeing the young girl’s expression, Lu Changsheng sighed slightly.

He took Xia Long’s ashes from his storage bag.

“Comrade Xia, unfortunately, died while seeking opportunity outside. Before his death, he entrusted me with his final affairs to tell you and your brother.”

Lu Changsheng said aloud.

“How can this be…”

Hearing this, the girl was thunderstruck.

Her youthful and vibrant face suddenly turned pale, feeling a chill in her limbs.

“Father!”

Then she fell powerlessly, full of sorrow and pain.

“Please accept my condolences.”

Lu Changsheng immediately supported the girl’s fragile body.

He took this matter as a warning.

One must be steady in life.

Otherwise, if there’s an accident, Xia Long’s situation could be a lesson.

“Father lied to me, you clearly said this year you wouldn’t venture out again, staying home with me and my brother, why did you…”

Crying prettily and mournfully, her rosy lips trembled.

After a moment, realizing her loss of composure, she hurriedly wiped her tears.

With a blush, she gave Lu Changsheng a respectful salute, “Thank you, elder, I was out of line.”

“It’s alright, such things are only natural.”

Lu Changsheng sighed lightly.

If she had no sadness, he wouldn’t know what to say.

Seeing the girl calming a bit, Lu Changsheng began explaining Xia Long’s last wishes.

Xia Zhiyue then called her brother, Xia Zhaoyang, back.

Xia Zhaoyang was eleven this year, with a handsome face.

Clad in a light green robe, he exuded a scholarly elegance.

He somewhat resembled his father, Xia Long, but with a vastly different temperament.

Lu Changsheng guessed Xia Long had fought hard alone.

So he protected this son well.

He didn’t want his son to follow his path.

Hoping for a stable cultivation in the Spirit Sect.

Learning of his father’s fate, Xia Zhaoyang also showed sadness.

However, his character was very firm, bowing to Lu Changsheng in thanks.

Then Lu Changsheng handed over Xia Long’s few relics and the storage bag with three hundred Spirit Stones to the siblings.

With Comrade Xia’s entrustment fulfilled, I will take my leave.

After completing everything, Lu Changsheng turned to leave.

“Thank you for bringing our father’s relics and ashes back, we, the siblings, have no way to repay such a great kindness.”

“I am willing to be a servant to repay your kindness.”

At this point, Xia Zhiyue bit her lip, eyes soaked with tears, determinedly knelt before Lu Changsheng.

“Comrade Xia has already compensated me for this, there’s no need.”

Lu Changsheng said, trying to lift the girl.

But she was stubborn, unwilling to get up unless he agreed.

“Now, my brother and I depend on each other. It’s difficult to survive in this world; I hope you will look after my brother.”

“I’m willing to serve you, as a servant, to repay your kindness.”

The girl looked pitifully at Lu Changsheng.

She understood without her father, they were alone.

Survival may not be an issue.

But the future of cultivation seemed bleak.

Though they had a fortune.

But fortune could be dangerous.

Besides, there may be enemies of their father.

Since their father entrusted Lu Changsheng.

And Lu Changsheng wasn’t greedy.

It showed he was trustworthy.

So, after brief thought, she decided to serve Lu Changsheng.

Lu Changsheng was her father’s friend, a cultivator, trustworthy.

Handsome like a gentleman, she felt no aversion, even some affection.

Serving Lu Changsheng would solve their problems.

He could still care for her brother.

Lu Changsheng pondered, looking at Xia Zhiyue.

“How about this, I can send you to a friend first.”

“When the Spirit Sect opens for recruitment, I’ll send your brother for the test.”

“During this time, send me a message if needed.”

“As for serving, I’ll take you as a concubine if you insist.”

Lu Changsheng said.

Xia Zhiyue had top-notch looks, spiritual roots, without complex issues.

Taking her as a concubine was agreeable.

Xia Long even said he could take her as a concubine.

But she had a brother too.

Taking her meant caring for Xia Zhaoyang.

Judging by Xia Zhaoyang’s behavior now, he was decent.

But it wasn’t easy to bring Xia Zhaoyang to Qingzhu Mountain.

So, Lu Changsheng planned to send them to Marquis of Ruyi’s place under Hong Yi’s care.

To observe their character.

Once confirmed, he could consider taking Xia Zhiyue as concubine.

From Xia Long’s words, the son had excellent spiritual roots.

He seemed spirit sect bound.

If Xia Zhaoyang joined the sect, it was another connection.

Staying reclusive, information might be limited.

Having a sect brother-in-law means more sources.

“Thank you, elder!”

Xia Zhiyue enthusiastically saluted Lu Changsheng.

She pulled Xia Zhaoyang to bow with her.

“I want to conduct a simple funeral for father and mother’s remains.”

She bit her lip before continuing.

“I can stay here for a few days; address any concerns.”

Lu Changsheng nodded.

“Thank you, Uncle Lu!”

Xia Zhiyue bowed to Lu Changsheng again.

Her title shifted from young master to elder, now uncle.

Lu Changsheng didn’t mind.

He signaled her to arrange a room.

“The secular aura is thin. Without a spirit gathering array or pills, cultivation is slow.”

Lu Changsheng sighed, taking out two Spirit Stones.

In a flash, seven days passed.

During these days, the siblings arranged their father’s funeral.

Lu Changsheng helped where possible.

The siblings had a tough time.

The arrangements were smooth, wrapping up, they agreed to Lu Changsheng’s earlier plans.

“Rest well tonight; we’ll ride tomorrow.”

Lu Changsheng said.

That night.

“Hmm?”

Lu Changsheng opened his eyes, hearing movement.

Light footsteps.

He sensed Xia Zhiyue’s approach.

“It seems the little girl is uneasy.”

Lu Changsheng guessed her intent.

But he admired her decisiveness.

“Uncle Lu, are you resting?”

Outside, her soft voice came.

“What is it?”

Lu Changsheng asked.

“Uncle Lu, is there something I could discuss.”

In the night breeze, she mustered courage, wrapping her fingers around her robe, blushing.

Lu Changsheng thought of dismissing her until morning.

But the girl’s effort wasn’t easy.

She probably debated for long before coming.

To dismiss her would discourage her.

“Ah, I am too soft-hearted.”

Lu Changsheng sighed softly, “The door is unlocked.”

“Creak” went the door.

In the dim room, Xia Zhiyue with her delicate form entered.

Softly she called, “Uncle Lu.”

Her voice was shy and gentle, yet innocent.

“Yue’er, what is it you want to say?”

In moonlight, Lu Changsheng stood, watching her fragile form, and smiled.

Holding her robe, her face red, she suddenly embraced him.

Resting gently against his chest.

With fragrant breath, she spoke.

Facing this action, this statement, Lu Changsheng no longer remained a gentleman.

It was hard to react otherwise.

After all, this was Comrade Xia’s dying wish.

“Uncle Lu~”

Shortly, the girl was breathless.

Afterward.

Lu Changsheng gently caressed the flushed-cheeked Xia Zhiyue in his arms.

“Uncle Lu.”

Curled in his arms, her voice rasped softly.

“It’s alright, get some rest.”

Lu Changsheng cast “Cleanse” to tidy up, speaking warmly.

“Mmhm.”

After highs and lows and tiring days, she swiftly fell asleep.

“Brother Xia Long, you truly gifted me greatly.”

Lu Changsheng murmured, looking at her delicate face.

Xia Zhiyue revealed information to him.

She possessed a latent physique.

Future offspring could have a higher chance of spiritual roots.

Lu Changsheng never rejected her.

With her offering and news, he couldn’t resist.

Such a physique might be the legendary Spirit Body!

“Nurturing Spirit Body.”

Sifting through recollections, he saw mention of such a physique.

Yet, neither he nor she knew details.

Her mother had such a physique too.

Thus, both siblings had spiritual roots.

The next day.

Lu Changsheng, on the Iron Feather Eagle, took them to Ruyi County to find Hong Yi.

It had been years since he met Hong Yi.

He also had affairs with Hong Yi.

In four days, the Iron Feather Eagle landed near Ruyi County City.

Lu Changsheng used a communication talisman to contact Hong Yi.

Then, leading the siblings to Ruyi County City.

“Brother Lu, long time no see, you look ever magnificent!”

Hong Yi awaited, greeting him warmly.

Wearing a gold crown and purple clothes, he looked noble and authoritative.

“Brother Hong, equally splendid.”

Lu Changsheng replied with a smile.

These years, he and Hong Yi exchanged letters.

Their meeting was not awkward.

First, settling Xia Zhiyue and Xia Zhaoyang.

Then, they talked at Ruyi Pavilion.

Lu Changsheng informed Hong Yi of their situation.

Hong Yi readily agreed to take care of them.

Lu Changsheng also mentioned sending his children to the secular world.

Requesting a manor and arrangements with teachers and guards.

“Trust that to me, simple tasks!”

Hong Yi rejoiced.

Through talisman business with Lu Changsheng, his status rose in Ruyi Marquis Manor.

The hereditary prince title was near.

With Lu Changsheng entrusting children here, it cemented their relationship.

Thrilling him and bringing genuine joy.

“Thanks to Brother Hong, I have another matter.”

Lu Changsheng recalled Qu Zhenzhen’s issue.

Asking Hong Yi to investigate Qu Zhenzhen’s family’s murder and the force behind it.

Feeling ready to help Qu Zhenzhen when capable.

Her having three children with him justified it.

“No problem, leave it to me.”

“I’ll inform you once there’s news.”

Hong Yi agreed right away.

“Thank you, Brother Hong, I brought three talismans for you.”

Lu Changsheng offered three High-Grade Talismans.

These tasks shouldn’t cost as much.

But he maintained fairness.

After many dealings, he trusted Hong Yi.

So, offering more was no harm.

“Lu Brother, you are too kind; I accept!”

Hong Yi accepted without arguing.

Knowing transactions foster good relations.

But upon holding the talismans, he sensed something unusual.

Surprised, he looked at Lu Changsheng, “What talismans are these? Not Medium-Grade? Should it be…”

“Yes, High-Grade Talismans, Golden Light Shield.”

“I’ve become a High-Grade Talismen Master recently and made some.”

Lu Changsheng explained.

Beyond personal ties and benefits.

He thought to show some of his value.

Only then, their interactions could stabilize.

“High-Grade Talismans, Golden Light Shield!”

“Brother Lu became a High-Grade Talismen Master!”

Hong Yi was stunned.

He was thunderstruck, looking disbelievingly at Lu Changsheng.

He befriended him seeing talent in talisman making.

Hoping he’d become a High-Grade Talismen Master.

Within five years, Lu Changsheng advanced to High-Grade.

The speed was astounding.

He deeply appreciated his decision.

The agreement invited Lu Changsheng.

Maintaining their connection proven right.

“It was luck, now I’m just beginning, success is hard.”

Lu Changsheng waved a hand, smiling.

Yet Hong Yi remained amazed.

Swallowing hard, he exclaimed, “Your talent in talisman making is exceptional, Brother Lu. You may achieve Second-Tier.”

“Never thought I’d meet a Second-Tier Talisman Master!”

“But these talismans are too invaluable; please take them back.”

Hong Yi said reluctantly.

A High-Grade Talismen was at least thirty Spirit Stones.

The three talismans were a precious fortune.

“Once given, there’s no taking back.”

“Hold onto them; when I send my kids here, I’ll need your help.”

Lu Changsheng replied.

The talismans cost him about ten Spirit Stones.

Not too precious for him.

“Alright, I graciously accept.”

Hong Yi said after bowing.

Then solemnly declared, “Rest assured, Brother Lu, under my watch, no harm will come to your family.”

With Lu Changsheng’s revelation.

Placing the children there strengthened their bonds.

His father, the Marquis, couldn’t ignore a High-Grade Talismen Master’s presence.

Seeking goodwill would be likely.

“Brother Hong, you exaggerate.”

“I just hope they live peacefully and happily.”

Lu Changsheng smiled at him.

Then they chatted and reminisced.

Deep into the night.

Afterward.

“Zhiyue, I’ll leave in a couple of days; send messages if needed.”

Lu Changsheng told Xia Zhiyue.

He didn’t rush to bring her to Qingzhu Mountain.

Following his original plan.

Having her care for her brother in the secular world.

Awaiting the Spirit Sect recruitment.

For children, he took his time.

Planning to explore her physique.

To see if it’s the Nurturing Spirit Body.

“Mm.”

Sluggishly, she responded.

Seven days later.

On Qingzhu Mountain.

“Nurturing Spirit Body, children of maternal origin possess spiritual roots.”

“But childbirth weakens vitality greatly.”

“This physique can forcefully deplete cultivation source to enhance child’s roots.”

Lu Changsheng read the book’s description of the Nurturing Spirit Body.

“Zhiyue said her mother died shortly after Zhaoyang’s birth.”

“Having a Nurturing Spirit Body meant she was a cultivator.”

“Cultivators only rarely face childbirth death.”

“Did Xia Long value Zhaoyang due to his wife using this method?”

“This intense love for his son.”

Lu Changsheng mumbled introspectively.

“If so, producing children isn’t to be taken lightly.”

“Zhiyue is too frail now; her cultivation too low. Births may cause issues.”

Lu Changsheng exhaled.