Chapter 381: Immortal, You Must Stand Up for Me!

Dragon Head Mountain.

Beast Taming Xu Family.

In a magnificent palace, adorned entirely in gold and jade, the atmosphere was tense and heavy.

The Xu Family Elder sat in the main seat, his face as grim as water, the overwhelming pressure he emitted was like a volcano ready to erupt.

Several high-ranking Xu Family members were prostrated on the ground, trembling uncontrollably. They didn’t dare speak, the Elder’s aura made it hard to breathe.

However, they could understand the Elder’s fury.

While he was in seclusion, two Xu Family Elders at the False Core level were suddenly killed.

And they died under mysterious circumstances, without leaving even the slightest clue about the culprit or the faction responsible.

“What is the meaning of this?!”

The tone of the Xu Family Elder was thick with suppressed anger, like the roll of thunder echoing through the palace.

Beast Taming Xu Family stood as one of the top powers in Jiang Kingdom, a Golden Core family with thousands of years of legacy, renowned far and wide.

But now, they had lost two False Core experts in a row!

And both died under such mysterious circumstances, without knowing which faction was behind it!

Humiliation!

Provocation!

This was blatant humiliation and provocation!

A direct slap to the face of the Beast Taming Xu Family’s dignity!

However, with the death of these two Pseudo Cores, a vague sense of fear also arose in the Xu Family Elder’s heart.

Because aside from the Four Great Immortal Sects, no one in the entire Jiang Kingdom’s cultivation world would dare challenge the Xu Family in this manner!

“Xu Ge’s last known destination was the Bihu Mountain Lu Family.”

A high-ranking Xu Family member cautiously spoke.

“Bihu Mountain Lu Family?”

The Xu Family Elder’s eyes flashed with streaks of golden light that could capture the soul.

Although the Bihu Mountain Lu Family had some fame in the Qingyun region, they were still not worth the attention of the Xu Family Elder.

“Reporting to Elder.”

The high-ranking member immediately reported that the Bihu Mountain Lu Family had risen in power in the last twenty years.

Their Elder, Lu Changsheng, and his wife, Lu Miaoge, cultivated a Dual ultivation Method, and their combined battle strength was on par with False Core experts.

Moreover, Lu Changsheng had inherited some kind of talisman-making lineage; soon after reaching Foundation Establishment, he used a Talisman Formation to kill three Foundation Establishment cultivators, gaining fame in one battle and leading to his rise in power.

“Even if the couple’s strength is comparable to False Core, it’s not possible they could have killed Xu Ge!”

The Xu Family Elder spoke directly.

Xu Ge may have lacked in character.

But as a False Core expert, his combat prowess was beyond question.

Two cultivators who can only match a False Core with a Dual Cultivation Method—how could they possibly be Xu Ge’s match, much less kill him?

Does the Beast Taming Xu Family only produce worthless weaklings!

Remember, every Beast Taming Xu Family cultivator possesses spirit beasts. Their strength far surpasses those of the same level!

Moreover, because of past experiences, Xu Ge was always exceedingly cautious in these matters.

Even when dealing with Foundation Establishment cultivators, he preferred to sneak attack.

He would never provoke openly, giving the opposition a chance to retaliate.

Given these circumstances, the Elder found it even harder to believe that two small Foundation Establishment cultivators could have killed Xu Ge.

“Could it be from the Azure Cloud Sect?”

The Xu Elder’s eyes darkened as he heard that Bihu Mountain was not far from the Azure Cloud Sect.

While the Beast Taming Xu Family was under the governance of the Azure Cloud Sect, they had maintained the status of a vassal.

Of course, the Azure Cloud Sect would prefer not to see the Xu Family grow too strong.

But he quickly dismissed the idea.

Given the current situation of the Xu Family, the Azure Cloud Sect had no reason to act this way.

If another Golden Core cultivator emerged in the Xu Family, then yes, the Azure Cloud Sect might take such drastic measures.

“Could it be the Five Elements Wang Family?”

The Xu Elder continued to ponder.

Some years ago, he had gone to the Five Elements Wang Family and humiliated them, establishing his power. The Wang Family likely bore a grudge.

Perhaps they took this opportunity to secretly ambush Xu Ge to spite me.

“But Old Ghost Wang doesn’t have the guts. If something happened to him, the Five Elements Wang Family would be done for.”

The Xu Elder dismissed the idea again, considering other family factions.

“Elder, Lu Changsheng of Bihu Mountain rose to prominence in just a few decades, so he surely had some big fortuitous encounter or treasure, maybe that’s why—”

At this point, the Xu Family Patriarch nervously spoke out.

Back when the second Elder of the Xu Family was killed, they investigated for a long time but found no clues.

Now, regarding Xu Ge’s situation—the only information they had was that Xu Ge had planned to ambush Lu Changsheng outside Bihu Mountain; there was nothing more.

Given the current situation, any investigation would be doomed to fail.

So they had no choice but to push the blame onto Bihu Mountain to try to calm the Xu Elder’s fury.

“Send someone to Bihu Mountain to investigate. If it is indeed related to them, report to me immediately.”

The Xu Elder said in a deep voice, though he knew the possibility was slim, it couldn’t be ruled out either.

“The matter of Xu Ge’s death must not be spread beyond here. Next, re-position our family’s strength, stay vigilant, and keep an eye on the movements of the Azure Cloud Sect, Sunset Glow Sect, Spirit Control Sect, Danxia Mountain, Phantom Sound Gate, Wang Family, and Shangguan Family!”

The Xu Elder continued, his voice filled with authority that brooked no dissent.

He still strongly believed that other Golden Core-level factions were behind the killings.

After all, many times, the opponent might not even have a direct conflict of interest with the Xu Family.

It could be that some faction wanted to play off one power against another and reap the benefits of their struggle.

“Yes, Elder!”

The Xu Family members responded in unison.

Meanwhile.

Inside a mountain cave.

Yun Wanshang felt something and opened her beautiful eyes.

“Hmm?”

She noticed Lu Changsheng, who had arrived looking pale, his magical energy disordered and weak, her delicate eyebrows furrowed.

She had called him here to train, so why did he look as though he had just gone through a fierce battle?

“Senior.”

Lu Changsheng gazed at the beautiful and noble Yun Wanshang, who was dressed in a multicolored brocade gown. After showing a touch of admiration, he quickly bowed.

“What happened to you?”

Yun Wanshang asked, her lips slightly parted.

“Thank you for your concern, Senior. I encountered an assassination attempt on my way here, but it’s nothing serious. Sorry to keep you waiting.”

Lu Changsheng said, his voice a little weak.

After speaking, he coughed once and quickly added, “Don’t worry, Senior, my current state won’t affect our training.”

“Assassination?”

Yun Wanshang’s clear eyes, like deep blue pools, gazed deeply at Lu Changsheng.

Then, with a slight motion of her hand, the world went black for Lu Changsheng, his body paralyzed.

“Damn, is this woman really so cold and unfeeling?”

Lu Changsheng internally cursed, frustrated that even after showing up like this to help her train, she didn’t show even a bit of concern.

At least she could’ve asked who was behind it, if it was dangerous.

What a heartless woman!

However, Lu Changsheng also wondered if he had overacted.

After all, he hadn’t really hurt himself.

He had only made his magical energy chaotic as if he had exhausted too much energy without any real injuries.

A sweet-smelling pill went down his throat, followed by rustling sounds.

As a heady fragrance filled the air, Lu Changsheng’s blood rushed, and his body reacted.

Soon enough, a warm and soft body pressed down on him, and he was pinned under it.

“Focus your energy!”

A clear, melodious voice filled the air.

Lu Changsheng reluctantly activated the Sun and Moon Reincarnation Sutra.

Later!

Later!

Later!

Lu Changsheng looked at the Storage Bag by the pillow and sighed deeply.

Damn, one day, I’m going to show you why my ‘little brother’ is unbeatable.

He then asked quietly, “Senior, how long will your training last?”

“Three months.”

Yun Wanshang’s voice was as clear as jade.

“Three months?”

Lu Changsheng heard this and wondered if he should act some more.

Maybe hint that the earlier assassination attempt might indicate his home is in danger, and he should return early to secure it.

If everything settles down and I’m still around, I can come back to help her train.

But would that be too much?

Just then, Yun Wanshang asked, “What was that assassination attempt you mentioned?”

“Hmm? Is this her way of offering help?”

Hearing this, Lu Changsheng paused, feeling happy, and began to think about how to explain his situation to sound more pitiful.

“If you have something to say, just say it; otherwise, don’t bother.”

Yun Wanshang’s voice was as cold as a still lake, indifferent.

As a Golden Core expert and the head of the Enforcement Palace, she might be somewhat indecisive and lacking in resolve when it came to emotions.

But in other areas, she was no fool.

Despite Lu Changsheng’s attempts to elicit concern, she could see through his petty tricks.

Seeing that he clearly wanted her help and attention, yet wouldn’t ask outright, she had deliberately refrained from asking any questions.

Now he tried to hint again, so she simply lost patience.

“Senior, it was Beast Taming Xu Family.”

Lu Changsheng replied immediately.

Seeing that she was willing to help, he wasn’t going to beat around the bush.

As for the matter with Xu Ge, Lu Changsheng didn’t think it was a big deal to tell Yun Wanshang.

After all, she was willing to step in when Immortal Lady Meng was in trouble, showing that she greatly valued their close relationship.

Of course, it could also have been because of Xiao Xiyue or because he had saved Chu Qingyi.

“Beast Taming Xu Family?”

Yun Wanshang frowned slightly.

In her view, the Beast Taming Xu Family and Lu Changsheng shouldn’t have any direct animosity.

Why would they go out of their way to target him?

“The attacker was Xu Ge, a False Core Elder of Beast Taming Xu Family. For some unknown reason, he targeted me and waited outside Bihu Mountain to ambush me. If not for my trump card…”

Lu Changsheng spoke in a soft, aggrieved tone, as if telling his parents he had been bullied at school.

“Xu Ge from the Xu Family?”

Yun Wanshang knew of him.

He was once a promising talent in the Xu Family, with the potential to reach the Golden Core stage.

However, after his spirit beast was killed by a core disciple of the Spirit Control Sect, his foundation was damaged, and he never recovered.

He must’ve had some fortuitous encounter later, as he managed to break into the False Core stage.

Because of this experience, Xu Ge became jaded and twisted, often preying on younger talents.

Given his circumstances, it wasn’t surprising he’d target someone like Lu Changsheng.

“This man likes to hunt young talents. You’ve been too flashy these past years, and without a solid backing, you caught his attention.”

“I’ll have someone warn him after this; he won’t dare touch you again.”

Yun Wanshang spoke with cold indifference, exuding an aura of absolute authority.

In her eyes, Lu Changsheng was also hers.

So if you mess with the dog, you’ll have to face the owner!

Plus, if something were to happen to Lu Changsheng, her chances of reaching Nascent Soul would be cut off.

Xu Ge daring to trouble Lu Changsheng was akin to seeking death!

“But when he ambushed me, I had no choice but to use my Talisman Formation to kill him.”

Lu Changsheng said shyly.

“?”

Yun Wanshang was taken aback, her mind momentarily blank, thinking, ‘Did I hear that right?’

Killed Xu Ge?

A Foundation Establishment cultivator killed a False Core expert?

She knew Lu Changsheng had great fortune, significant secrets, and hidden strength far beyond his peers.

But to think that he could kill a False Core expert!

Moreover, apart from being somewhat drained and having chaotic magical energy, Lu Changsheng didn’t have any visible injuries.

This was astonishing, truly astonishing!

After a moment of silence, she said indifferently, “You killed him, so be it.”

“But I’ve heard that years ago, when a False Core Elder from the Xu Family was killed by the Five Elements Wang Family, the Xu Family Elder brought two Third-Tier spirit beasts to the Wang Family for revenge.”

Lu Changsheng said nervously.

Yun Wanshang found this amusing, instantly understanding what was bothering Lu Changsheng.

So he was worried that the Xu Family Elder would come seeking revenge.

But in her view, Lu Changsheng was overly worried.

Not to mention that the idea of a Foundation Establishment cultivator killing a False Core expert was so outlandish that the Xu Family might not even suspect Lu Changsheng.

As a Golden Core expert, the Xu Family Elder would never stoop to such a level as to treat Bihu Mountain the same way he did the Wang Family.

He’d consider it too beneath him.

“If the Beast Taming Xu Family gives you trouble, just send me a message.”

Yun Wanshang spoke with clear authority.

Right after, a multi-colored Token flew into Lu Changsheng’s private chamber.

“This is my Token. It contains a sealed divine ability. If your life is in danger, show this Token and activate the divine ability within.”

Yun Wanshang realized that if Lu Changsheng were to face danger outside, it would also affect her; hence, she gave him this Token.

With this Token, every Golden Core faction in Jiang Kingdom’s cultivation world would think twice before touching Lu Changsheng.

Even if they decided to attack, the divine ability within would give him another trump card.

“Divine ability?”

Lu Changsheng looked at the Token and immediately thanked her, “Thank you, Senior!”

At this moment, all the resentment he had felt from being mounted earlier dissolved completely.

If she kept treating him this well, he’d willingly serve her with everything he had, just to show his gratitude!

At this moment, Lu Changsheng also realized that the personality of Caiyun Zhenren was quite similar to the Master from the Soul Dao Dream.

Sharp of tongue, soft of heart, very protective, and much more willing to be gentle than tough.

Lu Changsheng thought that if it weren’t for his premature Core Formation and that he’d form a High-Tier Golden Core, he might’ve even considered heading to the Azure Cloud Sect for Core Formation.

Unconsciously, three months had passed.

During this time, Lu Changsheng kept wondering if the Beast Taming Xu Family would come looking for trouble.

If even the slightest movement was detected from the Communication Talisman, he’d immediately take Yun Wanshang back to Bihu Mountain.

But for three months, things were calm, and nothing happened at home.

He spent all his time training, restoring his vitality, and engaging in Dual Cultivation with Yun Wanshang.

After finishing her training, Yun Wanshang transformed into a Divine Light Beam and left.

Lu Changsheng also left the cave.

Outside, the world was pouring rain.

Lu Changsheng stood in the rain, dressed in a green robe. His handsome face and tall, straight figure looked like an otherworldly immortal who had somehow ended up in the mortal world.

A cold breeze blew through, and Lu Changsheng extended his hand, smiling lightly, “It’s just a little rain.”

With that, he swiftly mounted a purple flying shuttle, transforming into a streak of light returning to Bihu Mountain.

“System, draw!”

Lu Changsheng silently commanded in his heart.

Two months ago, the number of his descendants who had reached the Innate realm of martial arts hit one hundred and fifty, granting him a chance to draw a prize and increasing the probability of his descendants inheriting spirit roots by 3%.

Since Yun Wanshang was by his side, he hadn’t used the draw yet.

[Ding! Congratulations to the host for receiving a bottle of Beast Origin Pills!]

[The reward has been sent to the system space. The host can view it anytime.]

Golden light stopped in the ‘pills’ section.

Immediately, the image of a bottle of pills appeared from the large wheel, accompanied by a system prompt.

“Beast Origin Pills? Pills for spirit beasts?”

When Lu Changsheng saw the reward, he raised his eyebrow.

While consuming and refining demon cores or demon pills with the same attributes was the most direct and straightforward way for a demon beast to grow.

The cost of this method was high, and there were many pills that could speed up the growth of spirit beasts.

However, ever since he had the Hong Lian and the Ancient Beast Taming Talisman, Lu Changsheng rarely refined pills for his spirit beasts.

With a thought, information about Beast Origin Pills appeared in the system space.

[Pill: Beast Origin Pill]

[Quality: Third Grade]

[Description: Increases the advancement speed of Third-Tier spirit beasts and has the effect of purifying the bloodline.]

“Purify the bloodline, huh…”

Lu Changsheng’s eyes narrowed as he read the pill’s description.

His spirit beasts all had extraordinary bloodlines.

Even a slight purification of their bloodline would be a substantial boost.

However, considering this was just a Third-Tier pill, and it was an entire bottle, not just one pill, Lu Changsheng guessed the effect might be limited.

“Better than nothing, I suppose.”

Lu Changsheng shook his head, not paying it much attention.

He planned to give the pill to the Nine Abyss Mastiff later to see its effects.

After all, spirit beasts required to be at least second grade or higher to consume Third-Tier pills safely.

Besides the Nine Abyss Mastiff, the only other Second-Tier spirit beast he had was the Spirit-Seeking Rat.

There was no way he’d waste resources on that rat.

Back home, Lu Changsheng asked his wife, Lu Miaoyun, if anything had hapened recently.

“Husband, Old Ancestor Qiu of the Qiu Family from Tianjue Mountain recently revealed information that the Great Elder of Jinlong Ridge, Jin Zan, has just formed a False Core in Nine Heavens Immortal City.”

“This information hasn’t been confirmed yet. I’ve already sent someone to Nine Heavens Immortal City to verify it.”

Lu Miaoyun gracefully poured ta for Lu Changsheng as she shared the news.

“Jin Zan…”

Lu Changsheng’s eyes narrowed at the name.

Fifteen years had passed since that incident at White Tiger Mountain.

Jin Zan had already reached the ninth level of Foundation Establishment back then, so it wasn’t surprising for him to break through to False Core now.

But rumors had been circulating that he was aiming for Golden Core, so how did he end up with a False Core instead?

Was it a deliberate misdirection, or did he lack the foundation and only manage to form a False Core?

“Jinlong Ridge’s long-standing silence might have been in preparation for Jin Zan’s breakthrough.”

Lu Changsheng speculated, reflecting on the recent quietness around Jinlong Ridge.

Initially, he had planned to travel with Ling Zixiao to resolve the situation with the spiritual veins if no incident arose at home or from the Beast Taming Xu Family.

Once Yun Wanshang finished her training, he could then collect the Heavenly Yuan Treasure Lotus, form a True Core, and aim for the Golden Core stage!

But with Jin Zan’s breakthrough, Jinlong Ridge would surely make a move soon.

“Sigh, I just want to cultivate in peace…”

Lu Changsheng sighed inwardly, debating whether to head to Jinlong Ridge to stir up some trouble.

However, if Jin Zan had actually formed a True Core instead of just a False Core, that would complicate things.

“Yun’r, keep a close watch on Jinlong Ridge these days. Inform me immediately if something happens.”

Lu Changsheng said to his wife.

“Yes, Husband.”

Lu Miaoyun replied softly, fuly aware that if the Jin Family Elder had indeed broken through, they would certainly come after them.