Chapter 109: Storm Brewing, Inner Demons!

One month later.

This day, Family Head Lu Yuanshan Ding came to see Lu Changsheng.

He brought a list of talismans and delivered some materials for making talismans.

He hoped that Lu Changsheng could spend the next period making more talismans according to the list.

“Rest assured, Family Head.”

“I will focus more time on making talismans.”

Lu Changsheng glanced at the list and nodded.

He knew that recently, tensions between the Chen Family and the Lu Family were becoming increasingly severe.

It seemed like a war was imminent.

Under these circumstances, the Lu Family was also preparing for battle.

They needed to stock up on more pills, talismans, and Artifacts.

As a Talisman Master of the Lu Family, he had the obligation to contribute and ensure the logistics.

“Alright, it will be tough for you during this period.”

Lu Yuanshan Ding patted Lu Changsheng’s shoulder warmly.

After a few simple words, he left in a hurry.

Clearly, given the situation in the Lu Family, he, as Family Head, was very busy.

After Lu Yuanshan Ding left, Lu Miaoyun came to inquire abot the Family Head’s visit.

Lu Changsheng did not hide anything and told her the truth.

“I heard from Grandma that not long ago, a small conflict broke out at the Spirit Stone mine being jointly mined by the family and the Chen Family.”

“Three days ago, the Great Elder took quite a few disciples to the Spirit Stone mine to hold the line.”

On hearing this, Lu Miaoyun said.

“Is it that serious?”

Lu Changsheng was somewhat surprised.

He knew that friction between the Lu Family and the Chen Family was ongoing.

But he did not expect it to be this intense.

It had already reached the point of conflict requiring the Great Elder to go out and hold the line.

Lu Changsheng then asked, puzzled: “Wasn’t the Spirit Stone mine halted by the Azure Cloud Sect and ordered to be mined jointly by the Chen Family and the Lu Family?”

“How dare the Chen Family make a move under such circumstances?”

Lu Changsheng was aware of the Spirit Stone mine issue from more than ten years ago.

Back then, the Lu Family and the Chen Family suffered significant losses fighting over this mine.

It was precisely for this reason that Lu Yuanshan Ding went to the Azure Cloud Sect to recruit talented individuals to bring fresh blood into the Lu Family.

“I also asked Grandma about this.”

“She said that the Chen Family was making constant private moves, looking for excuses to cause trouble, without initiating a full-blown conflict.”

“So in such circumstances, the Azure Cloud Sect won’t step in to control it.”

Lu Miaoyun said, a bit resentflly.

“I see.”

Lu Changsheng nodded slightly.

“Indeed, the Chen Family dares do this because they know they won’t provoke the Azure Cloud Sect.”

“Or to put it another way, as long as the Azure Cloud Sect’s forty percent share isn’t reduced, they wouldn’t bother with the feuds between the Chen and Lu Families.”

“Regardless of how either family acts, even if other forces intervene, it wouldn’t affect the Azure Cloud Sect’s interests.”

Lu Changsheng immediately understood the issue at hand.

Solving this matter relying on the Azure Cloud Sect as the arbitrator would be difficult.

After all, in the cultivation world, it’s ultimately survival of the fittest.

Although at a certain level, reputation and face are given some importance, it’s not to that extent.

“The previous friction between the Chen and Lu families was minor; the rapid escalation is likely due to the Purple Secrets Realm matter.”

“Not long ago, Lu Yuanshan returned from the Purple Secrets Realm, undoubtedly making the Chen Family wary.”

“Now they make a move against the Lu Family to see their attitude and distract them.”

“Otherwise, if the Lu Family produces a new Foundation Establishment cultivator, the Chen Family would be truly unsettled.”

Lu Changsheng pondered, vaguely guessing why the matter escalated quickly this time.

“If that’s the case, the feud between the Chen and Lu families might continue to escalate, leading to an outbreak.”

“A more intense outbreak than the battle between the Lu and Chen families ten years ago.”

Lu Changsheng thought to himself.

The feud between the Chen and Lu families had no room for reconciliation since ten years ago.

There had been no signs of reconciliation over the years.

For instance, when he followed Lu Yuanshan Ding back to Qingzhu Mountain, they encountered an attack from the Chen Family.

“Originally, I thought that with the Lu Family’s Ancestor around, things would be stable for two or three years. I didn’t expect turmoil to come so quickly.”

“The fact that the Great Elder directly took people to hold the line shows the Lu Family’s firm counterattack.”

“Could it be that the Lu Family gained something in the Purple Secrets Realm, giving them confidence? Or are they just pretending to be strong while actually weak?”

Lu Changsheng pondered.

He originally thought about sending his children, Lu Ping’an and others, to the mundane world next year.

Now that trouble had come so quickly, he felt this matter needed to be expedited.

However, he was concerned about leading a group of children to the mundane world.

Who knows if the Chen Family would ambush along the routes outside Qingzhu Mountain like before?

“No hurry, let’s observe for now.”

“As long as the Ancestor of the Lu Family is alive, the Chen Family can’t go all out and start a battle.”

“Moreover, Qingzhu Mountain is protected by formations, guarded by Foundation Establishment Ancestors, even two or three Foundation Establishment cultivators can’t break in.”

Lu Changsheng wasn’t overly anxious or flustered.

Things had just begun, and they hadn’t really affected him yet.

Over the following days, Lu Changsheng spent more time making talismans and handed them over to the family.

Naturally, the talismans submitted weren’t given for free.

The Lu Family calculated contribution rewards.

Including the materials provided by the Lu Family for making talismans, it was about half the original price.

It’s still decent.

After all, the Lu Family’s initial investment in resources was for subsequent returns.

In the blink of an eye, more than three months passed.

The dispute between the Lu and Chen families didn’t impact Lu Changsheng.

Or rather, as Lu Changsheng guessed, this conflict was just a probe.

It couldn’t reach Qingzhu Mountain and affect the Lu Family.

During these days, Lu Changsheng kept to himself at home.

He cultivated, made talismans, and spent time with his wives and children.

Of course, in the important area of offspring, Lu Changsheng didn’t slack.

His total number of children had reached seventy-three.

This was despite starting careful family planning.

Otherwise, it could have been at least ten more.

One day.

In the cultivation room.

“Clang clang clang—”

Lu Changsheng held a piece of cracked, dim red-gold essence.

His bones constantly emitted clanging sounds like metal striking metal.

It was as if blacksmiths inside him were forging divine weapons with his flesh and bones, sparks flying as they hammered relentlessly.

Who knows how long this continued.

“Crack!”

Lu Changsheng slowly opened his eyes, exhaling a murky breath, clenched his hand, and crushed the dim and cracked red-gold essence into powder.

An invisible pressure was released around him, scattering dust on the ground.

“The second layer of the Hundred Refined Body Technique is finally complete!”

Lu Changsheng stood up, stretching his muscles and bones, producing crackling noises.

He then spread his hand, looking at his palm.

His skin was still as fair and delicate as before.

But beneath the smooth mirror-like fairness was a layer of indestructible sturdiness.

“A breakthrough in body tempering feels more fulfilling!”

Lu Changsheng felt the power surging within, clenched his fist, feeling as if he could explode anything with one punch now.

However, he knew it was an illusion from the body enhancement post-breakthrough.

The second layer of the Hundred Refined Body Technique only made his physique comparable to a mid-tier Artifact.

“With the nurturing of the Black Dragon Pearl, I’ve achieved minor success in the Treasure Bone Technique.”

Lu Changsheng closed his eyes to look within.

He could see the bones in his chest crystal clear.

There were runes like tadpoles shimmering, as brilliant as a masterful creation.

“But now the treasure bone is only minor; it can only briefly harness some power of the Black Dragon Pearl, akin to a Talisman Treasure.”

“And unleashing it would cause significant harm to myself.”

“So, unless it’s crucial, I’ll keep nurturing it.”

Lu Changsheng looked at the treasure bone inside his chest, murmuring to himself.

This treasure bone technique was also one of his trump cards.

Nurtured to perfection, it would be astonishing!

Casting a Cleanse to tidy the cultivation room, Lu Changsheng left.

He joined his wives and children in the courtyard.

Over these times, he prepared his wives and children for a move to the mundane world.

In this aspect, Lu Ping’an and the children were accepting.

On one hand, Lu Changsheng had subtly mentioned the mundane world over time.

On another, it was in part due to the teachings and atmosphere in the Lu Family.

Three days later, while chatting with Lu Miaoyun, Lu Changsheng hear news.

Due to the Lu Family’s firm and assertive response in the Spirit Stone mine dispute, the Chen Family had calmed down.

The matter was temporarily resolved.

But Lu Changsheng remained convinced the Chen Family had merely been testing the waters.

Such issues would undoubtedly arise again.

“Since that’s the case, it’s best not to delay sending Ping’an and the others to the mundane world while things are calm.”

“Send the first group of children to the mundane world to avoid new troubles!”

Lu Changsheng concluded after some thought.

Otherwise, unforeseen troubles could arise.

“I should also notify Feiyu.”

Lu Changsheng thought.

After informing his wives, he went to find Li Feiyu.

He had already discussed the escape plan with Li Feiyu beforehand.

He wanted Li Feiyu to teach his children martial arts to make them closer.

When they went to the mundane world, Li Feiyu could keep an eye on them.

Soon after.

Lu Changsheng arrived at a square in Qingzhu Mountain Estate.

He saw Li Feiyu teaching Lu Ping’an and several kids, including his own seven children, some simple martial arts skills.

“Dad!”

“Father!”

“Uncle Lu!”

The kids shouted when they saw Lu Changsheng coming.

“I have something to discuss with your Uncle Li. Continue practicing well.”

Seeing a few of them stop, Lu Changsheng immediately spoke.

Though he was fond of them, he wasn’t spoiling.

What’s more, Li Feiyu’s martial teachings were foundational and not too arduous.

It was about building endurance and willpower.

He felt it was necessary.

“Changsheng, what brings you here?”

Li Feiyu smiled, asking Lu Changsheng.

“I have something to discuss.”

Lu Changsheng nodded.

He and Li Feiyu sat under a tree to talk: “I plan to send Ping’an and the others to the mundane world now.”

“So soon? Did something happen?”

Li Feiyu was a bit surprised, realizing something was up.

Lu Changsheng had mentioned it before, but within the next year or two.

“Do you know about the Spirit Stone mine issue with the Lu and Chen families?”

Lu Changsheng asked.

“I’ve heard about it, but I don’t know the details.”

“Did something happen?”

Li Feiyu shook his head.

He had truly isolated himself within the Lu Family.

“Nothing major happened; it’s temporarily calmed down.”

“But I suspect it was just the Chen Family testing.”

Lu Changsheng took out two bottles of Emerald Bamboo Wine from his Storage Bag and handed one to Li Feiyu, continuing.

“I mentioned before the Lu Family’s Ancestor isn’t in good shape.”

“At the time, I thought we had about four or five years.”

“But this situation reminded me.”

“It won’t be long before the next wave of problems descends on the Lu Family.”

“So, I think moving to the mundane world shouldn’t be delayed any longer.”

“Let’s send Ping’an and the others to the mundane world while things are calm.”

“And given the situation in the Lu Family, it would be best if you left as well.”

“You’re free to leave anytime.”

“As for your wives and children, I can speak to the Family Head to arrange it for you.”

“Then you can join me in sending your family to the mundane world.”

“What do you think?”

Lu Changsheng shared his thoughts.

On one side, to remind his good brother to escape.

On the other, hoping Li Feiyu would help watch over his kids in the mundane world.

Though there was some arrangement with Hong Yi in the mundane world,

Lu Changsheng had a bit more trust in Li Feiyu.

“No problem, I’ll do as you say; it’s no trouble.”

Li Feiyu thought briefly and nodded.

He understood it would be late to escape if the Lu Family faced a crisis.

Though he would lose the Spirit Stone mine’s energy for cultivation, it was situational.

Besides, he had planned to leave the Lu Family after reaching the Fourth Layer of Qi Refining.

Recently, he achieved the Fourth Layer.

Except the children were small, and he was reluctant; he thought to wait a few years.

Now that Lu Changsheng could resolve his issues, he had no worries.

“We shouldn’t be too formal; please watch over my children for a few years.”

“They’ll need time to adapt, and I can’t be by their side.”

Lu Changsheng sighed.

Though prepared mentally, sending children to the mundane world brought mixed feelings.

“Rest assured, I will take good care of them.”

Li Feiyu assured.

“But what about you? What are your plans?”

“I’m tied deeply with the Lu Family; it’s not easy to just leave.”

“After all, the Lu Family has shown me kindness, I can’t just walk away.”

“I’ll observe; if the Lu Family can weather this, it would be ideal.”

“If setbacks are unbearable, they won’t care much about me either.”

Lu Changsheng explained.

Although he had a contract with the Lu Family, it wasn’t binding him anymore.

It was the bond and affection over the years.

As well as feelings for his wives.

These, he couldn’t ignore.

So he decided to wait and see.

Hoping to help weather any storm if possible.

If not, protect his wives and leave.

It would give him peace of mind and clarity for his family, Lu Miaoyun, and the Lu Family.

“Alright, as long as you know your priorities.”

Li Feiyu didn’t persuade further.

He knew Lu Changsheng was sentimental, making it difficult to walk away.

“If you’re unsure of anything, you can ask me.”

Li Feiyu offered.

Then they discussed future arrangements.

After the conversation, Lu Changsheng went to see Family Head Lu Yuanshan Ding.

He wanted to discuss sending children to the mundane world and confirm the situation with Lu and Chen families.

And also the matter of Li Feiyu’s family.

Half an hour later.

Lu Changsheng arrived at Lu Yuanshan Ding’s residence.

But Lu Yuanshan Ding wasn’t there.

He waited for about half an hour before Lu Yuanshan Ding returned.

“Changsheng, something urgent?”

In the hall, Lu Yuanshan Ding asked when he saw Lu Changsheng.

“Yes, Family Head.”

“I heard the dispute with the Chen Family is temporarily calm, so I thought of sending some of my children to the mundane world.”

Lu Changsheng said straightforwardly.

He felt there was no need to be evasive.

“Sending children to the mundane world?”

Lu Yuanshan Ding paused.

After a moment’s thought, he said, “I believe your children are also seven years old; it’s time to send them out.”

“With the situation calm, it’s fine.”

“Just be careful on the road; when are you departing? I’ll arrange escorts.”

Lu Yuanshan Ding said.

“In a few days, I think.”

Lu Changsheng replied.

“Do you have a place prepared? The Lu Family has influence in many places.”

“If not, I can arrange it for you.”

“Each child will be treated the same.”

Lu Yuanshan Ding offered warmly.

“Thanks, Family Head, but I’ve arranged it in Ruyi County.”

“A friend prepared land and a home there beforehand.”

Lu Changsheng bowed slightly.

He understood Lu Yuanshan Ding’s implication of settling children with the Lu Family.

“If you’ve arranged it, that’s best.”

“Let me know when it’s confirmed. If there’s any issue in the mundane world, do tell me.”

Lu Yuanshan Ding’s tone remained warm.

In this world, family legacy and blood are highly valued.

Lu Changsheng, though integrated with the Lu Family, wanting his own lineage was normal.

“Don’t worry about the Lu Family’s situation; Yuan had quite a gain in the Purple Secrets Realm, offering hope.”

Noticing Lu Changsheng’s concerns, Lu Yuanshan Ding revealed some news.

“A significant gain in the Purple Secrets Realm? Helping through tough times?”

Lu Changsheng was slightly startled.

Though unsure of the truth, he knew he must respond.

Bowing and showing his determination, “Family Head, I regard Qingzhu Mountain as home. Sending children is to leave a legacy and stand with the family!”

Lu Changsheng declared firmly.

Lu Yuanshan Ding was pleased by his resolve.

He patted Lu Changsheng’s shoulder, saying, “Heh, having this heart is enough.”

“But the Lu Family wouldn’t let members sacrifice for nothing; don’t worry too much.”

Lu Yuanshan Ding assured.

“Yes, Family Head!”

Lu Changsheng nodded.

“By the way, Family Head, I have a friend named Li Feiyu.”

“I asked the Fourth Elder years ago to make him free, but he’s still here.”

“I’d like him to help with the children, so may he also take his family to the mundane world?”

Lu Changsheng continued.

“No problem. Ask Uncle Fu to arrange it.”

Lu Yuanshan Ding immediately agreed.

He had some impression of Li Feiyu due to Lu Changsheng.

And saw no harm in helping.

“Thank you, Family Head!”

Lu Changsheng bowed.

He then bid farewell to Lu Yuanshan Ding.

That night—

“Lanshu, Zier, Qing’er, I plan to send Ping’an, Wuyu, and Wuyou to the mundane world in three days.”

“They are still young and need care; you should go too.”

Lu Changsheng said to his three wives.

He didn’t mention anything about the Lu Family’s crisis.

Sending the children and wives to the mundane world was the soundest reason.

“Mm, I’ll follow you.”

“Everything as you arrange.”

The three women responded, snuggling beside Lu Changsheng.

“Don’t worry, I’ll visit when I can.”

Lu Changsheng reassured, stroking them gently.

He had deep feelings for his earliest wives.

Immortal City of Da Mengze.

“Comrade Meng, before refining, I’ll clarify that, due to the rarity of Foundation Establishment Pill materials, besides second-tier refiners of the Spirit Sect, others have no proficiency.”

“Statistically, I produce two pills normally.”

“If unlucky, possibly just one; only in luckiest cases, three pills.”

“If you accept this, then refining shall begin.”

The Elder, with hair and skin like a baby’s, spoke to a girl in a purple dress.

“Of course, Master Chen, rest assured. Regardless, the compensation is set.”

Meng Xiaochan smiled, handing a Storage Bag.

Though Master Chen was seasoned in alchemy,

He was among the few stable Foundation Establishment Pill refiners.

And hiring for this rare pill was tough for casual cultivators.

Meng Xiaochan had paid a lot in favors to secure Master Chen.

“Alright, since you agree, I’ll begin the refinement.”

“Wait outside, or come in seven days.”

Master Chen nodded, checked the materials and, with two assistants, entered the pill chamber.

Meng Xiaochan stayed, waiting outside.

Her mind wandered, considering if only one pill was made, to either use it or give it to him.

“Huff, this Locking Emotion Gu is too overwhelming. Once I succeed in Foundation Establishment, I must kill him.”

“Otherwise, he’ll be a demon in my heart!”

Meng Xiaochan pressed her brow with a spell, breathing harder.

She felt the Gu’s influence growing.

Involuntarily thinking of Lu Changsheng.

Even dreaming of him occasionally.

“I realized I was afflicted, and with my cleansing skill, anyone else would fall to the Gu’s power.”

“So I must kill him and reclaim the Gu!”

Meng Xiaochan whispered.