[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-starting-from-the-blood-lineage-genealogy-to-bui":3,"chapter-starting-from-the-blood-lineage-genealogy-to-bui-starting-from-the-blood-lineage-genealogy-to-bui-chapter-228":6},{"origin":4,"title":5},"english","Starting From The Blood Lineage Genealogy To Build An Eternal Immortal Clan",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":19,"prevChapterSlug":20,"totalChapters":21,"novelImage":22},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15,"volume":16,"translator":17,"content_hash":18},1611390,2074,"Chapter 228: Cao Jinming's Decision, Ye Xuehua Goes to Her Death","starting-from-the-blood-lineage-genealogy-to-bui-chapter-228",228,"\u003Cp>Of course they had Jade Marrow Pills. The ones auctioned back then were merely low-grade Jade Marrow Pills.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He still had mid-grade and high-grade pills on hand.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A mid-grade pill could increase the chance of Foundation Establishment by fifteen percent, while a high-grade pill could boost it by twenty percent, making it comparable to a mid-grade Foundation Establishment Pill.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The efficacy of the original Earth Core Jade Marrow Ganoderma had been incredibly potent. Xu Chuan had divided it into three portions and refined it alongside other spirit grass.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This yielded twenty pills in total.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, if it were only a few-hundred-year-old Earth Core Jade Marrow Ganoderma, even a high-grade pill refined from it would only increase the chance of Foundation Establishment by nearly ten percent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A thousand-year-old stalk might provide slightly over a ten percent boost.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all, the materials required for this pill recipe could not compare to those of a true Foundation Establishment Pill.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for a five-thousand-year-old Earth Core Jade Marrow Ganoderma, one would be hard-pressed to find a second stalk in the entirety of Great Wei.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If one possessed a five-thousand-year-old piece of spirit wood, it would be more than enough to serve as the main material for a Golden Core stage immortal cultivator's magic treasure.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You certainly dote on your wife.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Chonghui scratched his head. \"Isn't that our Xu family's tradition?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Well, the joke was on him now.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Come to think of it, that particular trait really did originate from him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Since it is for Cao Shengyang, we can agree to this trade. Value it at three thousand spirit stones and ask for corresponding top-grade magical artifact materials. Among them, there must be at least one piece of spirit wood.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for the rest, it would be best if they cover all five elements.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Three thousand spirit stones were enough to purchase over a dozen sets of top-grade magical artifact materials.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, a pill capable of assisting in breaking through a major realm bottleneck was certainly worth that price.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Moreover, they were entirely priceless, with no market available for them even if one had the wealth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Cao clan of Tongshan Commandery had to either obtain a Foundation Establishment Pill from the main imperial clan or figure out a way through the Xu family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Obviously, their chances were much higher with the Xu family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for other noble families, even if they had such pills, the Tongshan Cao branch would never obtain them unless they resorted to outright robbery.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No aristocratic family in any commandery would be that short-sighted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>How could a few sets of materials compare to a future Foundation Establishment stage immortal cultivator?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Chonghui's face lit up with joy, and he immediately cupped his hands. \"Thank you, Great-Grandfather!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Chuan shook his head and chuckled. He then took out a porcelain bottle, handed it to Xu Chonghui, and instructed, \"Do not be foolish and send the pill over directly. Make the Tongshan Cao clan bring the materials here first.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Also, news of this must not be leaked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Furthermore, do not be so soft-hearted. If you descendants agree to every plea from a woman in the future, our Xu family will fall sooner or later.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>You must weigh the benefits the other party can bring to our family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Tongshan Cao clan has a profound foundation, and Tongshan Commandery is rich in artificing materials. That is the fundamental reason why I agreed. Do you understand?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Thank you for your teachings, Great-Grandfather. Your grandson will bear this in mind. In all things, the Xu family's profit comes first!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Good,\" Xu Chuan nodded slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He then called out to the air, \"Moyue, it is time for them to head back.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Moyue descended to the ground and set Xu Wenjing down.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Chonghui beckoned with his hand, and Xu Wenjing immediately trotted over.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Little ingrate!\" Moyue gritted out through his teeth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"What ingrate? You didn't give birth to the child,\" Xu Chuan chuckled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Moyue was instantly left speechless. With an angry swoosh, he darted right back into the Jade Cold Pool.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Wenjing blinked in confusion. \"Old Ancestor, I haven't even said goodbye to Old Ancestor Moyue yet.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Just say it, Jing'er. He can hear you.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Wenjing bobbed his little head and shouted at the top of his lungs, \"Old Ancestor Moyue, Jing'er will come play with you again next time!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With that said, he left the Jade Cold Pool alongside Xu Chonghui.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As soon as they were gone, Moyue popped his head back out, watching their retreating backs. \"You human children sure are amusing.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"They are all like that when they're young,\" Xu Chuan remarked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Once they grow up and form their own thoughts, things will be different.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"That is simply what growing up entails.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Just like how fledgling eagles must eventually leave the nest. What about you flood dragons?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Moyue paused at the question. After pondering for a moment, he replied, \"We are born at the late stage of Tier One and can fend for ourselves. If a flood dragon possesses a purer bloodline, they might even reach Tier Two shortly after birth.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Well, in terms of bloodlines, humans truly cannot compare to flood dragons,\" Xu Chuan sighed faintly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Of course!\" Moyue raised his dragon head, looking incredibly smug.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Enough idle chatter. I need to resume my cultivation. In a while, we will head to the Hundred Thousand Mountains.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"We should have gone ages ago! That place is a paradise for demonic beasts!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Upon returning, Xu Chonghui informed Cao Shengling of the outcome. Overjoyed, she exclaimed, \"The Grand Elder actually agreed?!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I will write to my brother immediately so they can prepare the artificing materials and send them over for the exchange in due time.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Chonghui nodded gently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A few days later.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tongshan Commandery.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Inside the grand hall of the prince's estate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Jinming had just returned from the Imperial City. Bearing a look of deep anger, he took his seat at the head of the hall.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At that moment, Cao Shengyang strode in.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Father, what happened? Did things not go smoothly in the Imperial City?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Jinming sighed heavily. \"I was met with nothing but a belly full of mockery. They claimed your innate aptitude was completely ordinary, and... never mind. There's no use talking about it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I have finally seen their true colors.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even though our Tongshan branch shares the Cao surname, they only treat us as mere vassals now.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They order us around as they please and never once consider offering any benefits in return!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Pausing for a moment, his tone shifted to one of profound regret. \"If only we hadn't offended the Xu family. Given my past friendship with Xu Chuan, we might have been able to procure a pill like the Jade Marrow Pill from him to assist in breaking through to Foundation Establishment.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Shengyang spoke up, \"Father, shortly after you left Tongshan Commandery, I wrote to my sister to ask for her help.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>My brother-in-law is the future Xu family head, after all. If he puts in a word, he might be able to persuade them.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You!\" Cao Jinming pointed a trembling finger at him. \"By doing that, aren't you just making your sister's situation in the Xu family even more awkward?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Don't forget, because of the incident last time, there is barely any goodwill left between our two families.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Your sister has likely endured her fair share of criticism from the Xu family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And now you shamelessly ask her to beg for a Jade Marrow Pill...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Jinming swung his arm down in frustration and let out a long, heavy sigh.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Even if there is only a sliver of hope, I refuse to give up. I have been at peak Qi Refining for years now. With my aptitude and foundation, even with the aid of thousand-year-old spirit grass, my chances are still only slightly over twenty percent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And if I fail, the next attempt will be infinitely more difficult.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I might never have another chance to step into the Foundation Establishment stage!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Father, I want to attempt the breakthrough with greater certainty and succeed on my first try!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Who wouldn't want to succeed on their first try?\" Cao Jinming shook his head with a bitter smile. \"I can only blame myself for not having the kind of prestige your great-grandfather commanded.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just then, a guard clad in black armor approached the hall from outside. Looking at Cao Shengyang, he reported, \"Young Master, a letter from the young miss has arrived.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"From Shengling? Bring it here quickly so I can read it.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After taking the letter, Cao Shengyang waved his hand dismissively. \"You may take your leave.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The guard cupped his hands and departed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Shengyang tore it open. The letter read:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[Brother, May this letter find you well. As for the matter you entrusted to me, I have already asked my husband to arrange it. He has managed to secure a Jade Marrow Pill from the Grand Elder.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>My husband informed me that this pill requires our Cao family to trade top-grade magical artifact materials worth three thousand spirit stones.]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"What does your sister's letter say?\" Seeing the wild ecstasy blooming on his son's face, Cao Jinming asked in astonishment. \"Did she succeed?!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He stepped forward, snatched the letter, and began reading it himself.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Excellent, excellent!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"That's my daughter! Always thinking of our family's well-being! Shengyang, you must thank your sister properly for this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for the materials, I will gather them immediately.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>We will head to Dongxi as quickly as possible, lest complications arise from delay.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Thank you, Father!\" A sharp gleam flared in Cao Shengyang's eyes. \"With the Jade Marrow Pill, I am confident I can reach Foundation Establishment!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Hahahaha!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Jinming laughed heartily. \"Of course I believe in you!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Still, it seems Xu Chuan remembers the friendship between us. Had he been unwilling, my son-in-law would never have gotten it no matter how much he begged.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"That must be the case,\" Cao Shengyang nodded.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It seems that when it comes to the Xu family and the main imperial clan being point against point, our Tongshan branch should side with the Xu family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>We made the wrong choice once before; we cannot afford to make it a second time!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Then regarding the main branch...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Just humor them verbally. Isn't that how they treat us anyway?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Three days later.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Dongxi.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Inside the main hall of the Xu family estate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Dezhao, Xu Chonghui, and Cao Shengling were present to receive Cao Jinming and his son.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Daoist friend Cao, Chonghui has already explained the purpose of your visit. I originally had no intention of interacting with your family anymore, but out of consideration for Chonghui and his wife, I am making an exception this time.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Thank you, Family Head Xu.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After speaking, Cao Jinming turned his gaze to Cao Shengling. \"Shengling, how have you been these days?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Father, everything is fine for me here in the Xu family. You need not worry.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Mid-stage of the eighth layer of Qi Refining. For someone of your age, your cultivation speed is indeed not slow.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Jinming then cupped his hands toward Xu Dezhao. \"The Xu family has gone to great lengths for her.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Let us discuss business,\" Xu Dezhao waved his hand dismissively.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Jinming nodded slightly and presented a storage pouch. Xu Dezhao opened it and swept his divine sense over the contents. \"These are indeed all top-grade magical artifact materials.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Upon seeing Xu Dezhao give an approving nod, Xu Chonghui tapped his own storage pouch. He retrieved a porcelain bottle and brought it over to Cao Jinming.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He tipped the bottle, letting a perfectly round, plump pill swirling with rich spiritual energy roll into his palm.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It's a Jade Marrow Pill!\" A broad smile spread across Cao Jinming's face. \"Thank you for granting my Cao family's request, Family Head Xu.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Do not use the Cao family name to curry favor. Nowadays, just hearing the name 'Cao family' gives our Xu family a terrible headache!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A look of awkwardness flashed across Cao Jinming's face, but he nonetheless pressed on, \"They are them, but I, Cao Jinming, swear that from now on, I will never again heed their words to target the Xu family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Should the need arise, I am even willing to secretly pass on information to your family.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Dezhao gave Cao Jinming a brief glance and offered a faint nod. \"Since the transaction is complete, you must excuse me. I have pressing matters to attend to. Chonghui, entertain your father-in-law.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yes, Father.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Dezhao departed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Jinming looked at Xu Chonghui and smiled. \"My worthy son-in-law, we haven't seen each other in years, yet you have already reached peak Qi Refining. It seems it won't be long before you, too, attempt Foundation Establishment.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"There's no rush. My father intends for me to build up my foundation a bit more.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I see. Your father must have his arrangements.\" Cao Jinming was completely obliging in his words, utterly devoid of the commanding aura Prince Cao had displayed when Xu Chuan first met him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"By the way, how is your great-grandfather? I would like to pay my respects.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To rebuild ties with the Xu family, he had to persuade Xu Chuan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Jinming knew this crystal clear.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"This...\" Xu Chonghui hesitated, an uncomfortable expression surfacing on his face.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Shengling immediately stepped in to explain. \"Father, the Grand Elder is living in seclusion right now, focusing entirely on closed-door cultivation. Only a handful of people in the Xu family—such as the family head, the Foundation Establishment elders, and the grandfather generation—can see him on a regular basis.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The younger generation can only catch a glimpse of him during the year-end clan competition or when major family events occur.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Is that so? That's truly a pity.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just then, Xu Chonghui suddenly chimed in, \"Wait, my great-grandfather just sent me a voice transmission. He is willing to see you, Father-in-law.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A look of delight instantly washed over Cao Jinming's face as he cupped his hands. \"Thank you for the trouble, my worthy son-in-law.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Shengling, stay here and chat with my brother-in-law. I will escort Father-in-law over.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Alright,\" Cao Shengling nodded.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Chonghui led Cao Jinming to the study, where Xu Chuan was already waiting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Afterward, Xu Chonghui stood guard by the door.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Brother Cao, did you have business with me?\" Xu Chuan asked calmly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I wish to represent my branch and establish ties with the Xu family once more. I wonder if you are willing, Brother Xu?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"How would we establish these ties?\" Xu Chuan chuckled, lifting his eyes to meet Cao Jinming's gaze.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Secret trade exchanges. We could conduct them once every year or two, priced at ten percent above the market rate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Aside from that, if the imperial Cao clan in the capital attempts to use Tongshan Commandery against the Xu family, I can pass on the intelligence.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing the sheer sincerity on Cao Jinming's face, Xu Chuan asked in surprise, \"Aren't you afraid of being discovered and offending the main imperial clan, Brother Cao?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"When has the main branch ever shown us a shred of respect?!\" Anger laced Cao Jinming's words. \"They never share core secrets with our side branches anyway, so there's nothing to leak.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for everything else, even if we are found out, we can simply claim that someone let something slip and a subordinate relayed the message.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"We share the Cao bloodline; they would not dare massacre us on a whim.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>'With their subordinates dissatisfied and their side branches harboring resentment, the providence of the Cao family has already begun to decline. This is a sign of an impending collapse.'\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Chuan analyzed inwardly. After a moment of quiet contemplation, he raised his head. \"In this deal, our Xu family will suffer no losses whatsoever and will only stand to gain. Why would I refuse such an offer?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Haha, thank you, Brother Xu. Then shall our two families consider it a pact?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Agreed,\" Xu Chuan nodded.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With their business concluded, Cao Jinming did not overstay his welcome at the Xu family estate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A short while later, he departed with Cao Shengyang.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Chuan informed Xu Dezhao and his son about the arrangement before putting the matter entirely out of his mind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Xu family lacked no alchemy materials, and they had already established trade channels for formation and talisman crafting resources.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Securing this final link—artificing materials—perfectly aligned with Xu Chuan's intentions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>'Once the matters regarding the Immortal Alliance are settled, I can devote myself entirely to Moyue's affairs.'\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Imperial City.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Cao family estate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Right in the midst of Cao Yulong's cultivation, a guard arrived to deliver a message.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Young Master Yulong, Madam is about to give birth. The family head sent me to notify you.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A sharp gleam burst from Cao Yulong's eyes. He shot to his feet, elation written all over his face. \"Excellent!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"My child is finally about to be born!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He immediately flung his sleeves back, throwing open the door of his quiet room, and rushed toward Ye Xuehua's quarters.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Upon arriving outside her door...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He found Cao Shengming, the First Elder, the Second Elder, and several other Cao family elders waiting there.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Yulong cupped his hands to greet each of them in turn.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yulong, if Ye Xuehua truly births a prodigy with a Heavenly Spiritual Root this time, you will be the great hero of our Cao family. All your resources will be doubled, and the Ancestor has even promised to grant you a fully intact talisman treasure.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Cao family's First Elder, Cao Defong, told him with a wide smile.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Thank you, First Elder! Thank you, Ancestor!\" Wild ecstasy surged within Cao Yulong's heart.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Doubling his resources was one thing, but a talisman treasure? Barely anyone in the entire Cao family possessed such an artifact.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The only time he had held one was during the Wuhua Secret Realm expedition, and even then, he was only temporarily granted an old talisman treasure with barely two or three uses left.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Inside the room.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Madam, push harder!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You can do it, Madam!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The midwives continuously encouraged her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, Ye Xuehua could clearly feel her mana draining away in a ceaseless torrent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>By the time the child was born, she feared she would plummet straight out of the Qi Refining realm entirely.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In addition, her spirit root seemed to be growing increasingly dull.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>'So that's how it is. This was the Cao family's plan all along. Using me as a stepping stone to nurture their prodigy!'\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>'No! I will absolutely not let you get away with this!'\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ye Xuehua immediately activated her secret art—Azure Wood Withering.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was a Foundation Establishment stage secret method recorded within the Azure Wood Sword Art, and it was excruciatingly difficult to master.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Once struck, a Seed of Withered Wood would take root within the target's dantian. It would continuously absorb all the host's power until their mana was completely drained, turning them into nothing more than a mortal.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even with Ye Xuehua's supreme aptitude, it had taken her a great deal of time to successfully cultivate it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If she planted it within her own child, he would have almost zero chance of cultivating in his lifetime.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Unless she personally extracted the Seed of Withered Wood, or an immortal cultivator specialized in wood-element cultivation methods and the Dao of Withering and Flourishing dispelled it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Azure Wood Withering possessed one more unique characteristic: if the host perished, the caster could retrieve the Seed of Withered Wood and absorb it, turning it into pure nourishment to cause their own strength to skyrocket.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Conversely, if the caster died and the Seed of Withered Wood was neutralized, it would become nourishment for the host instead, presenting them with a rather significant fortune.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>'My son, do not blame your mother for being ruthless. Rather than letting you live among the Cao clan and serve them like a puppet, I would rather you endure their cold glares and harsh treatment to truly witness their ugly faces.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>'But you must survive, no matter how hard it gets.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>'If you ever encounter a great master in the future, you will have your chance to soar to the heavens!'\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ye Xuehua had heard tales of Xu Chuan from Xu Mingqing. The magical art he had created himself could maintain eternal youth and alter his appearance at will.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If her guess was correct, that was exactly the wood-element Dao of Withering and Flourishing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Casting Azure Wood Withering consumed an exorbitant amount of mana.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As the secret method was laid upon the infant, it relentlessly sapped her strength.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It did not take long before Ye Xuehua's cultivation began to drop!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Peak Qi Refining!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Eighth Layer of Qi Refining!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seventh Layer of Qi Refining!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She kept dropping until she plunged all the way down to the early stage of the seventh layer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She also felt a profound flaw mar her spirit root; she was afraid her Earth Spiritual Root aptitude was entirely ruined.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It might have even degenerated into a Miscellaneous Spiritual Root.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At that moment, the child in Ye Xuehua's womb finally stopped draining her power.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Madam, push! We can see the little young master's head!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Push harder, Madam!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A few moments later.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A loud, resonant wail echoed throughout the room, ringing out into the courtyard.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Expressions of unbridled joy bloomed on the faces of the crowd outside.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Completely exhausted, Ye Xuehua thoroughly blacked out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Shengming, Cao Yulong, the First Elder, and the others all walked in with beaming smiles.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Yulong merely cast a single passing glance at Ye Xuehua before averting his eyes entirely.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The others paid even less attention to her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In their eyes, she was nothing more than a tool to birth a heaven-defying genius for their Cao family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"First Elder, should we test his spirit root aptitude now?\" Cao Shengming asked as he looked toward Cao Defong.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Holding the newborn in his arms, Cao Defong turned back to him and waved his hand dismissively. \"There is no rush. The influence of the secret method is still present. We must wait at least three months for him to thoroughly stabilize.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only then will testing his spirit root yield an accurate result.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Shengming nodded.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Yulong then asked, \"What about Ye Xuehua?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Her foundation and reserves have completely nourished our Cao family's prodigy. She is practically a cripple now. Given that she is this child's birth mother, let her cling to life and struggle to survive in a dying state.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Our Cao family isn't so poor that we can't afford to feed a piece of trash.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"However,\" Cao Defong's gaze landed on the unconscious Ye Xuehua lying on the bed, \"to prevent her from resenting our Cao family and instilling dark thoughts into the child...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She is forbidden from seeing this child again. Yulong, take a more obedient wife from among our Cao family's vassals to raise and care for him.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The First Elder has thought of everything. We will do exactly as you say.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Shengming and Cao Yulong agreed respectfully.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The next day.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ye Xuehua groggily awoke, only to find herself relocated to a crude, rundown dwelling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She climbed out of bed and walked into the courtyard, gazing at the overgrown weeds and scattered dead leaves. It looked as though no one had maintained the place in a very long time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Looking up at the sky, she spotted a faint, translucent barrier shimmering slightly overhead.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This tiny courtyard had been completely sealed and isolated by a formation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She inspected her cultivation base and physical condition. \"Early stage of the seventh layer of Qi Refining, an impaired immortal foundation, a tarnished spirit root, and an atrophied divine sense.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"What a wondrous secret art indeed!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A cold sneer tugged at the corner of her lips. \"But I wonder... what sort of expressions will you all make when you realize everything you schemed for was nothing but empty dreams?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A crisp breeze swept past.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Carrying a biting chill, it fluttered into the towering maple tree standing in the yard.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Crimson leaves drifted down, dancing wildly through the air like the radiant hues of the morning glow.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Facing the direction of Yuehu Commandery, she fell to her knees and kowtowed three times. \"Master, this disciple bids you farewell,\" she murmured softly. \"Thank you for over twenty years of teachings.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"In this life, I have witnessed a truly different kind of splendor. Though it remained unfulfilled, I have no regrets!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After standing back up...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ye Xuehua swung her palm. Heavy and fierce as iron, she decisively struck her own heart without the slightest hesitation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As a muffled thud echoed from her chest, a burning, metallic sweetness surged up her throat. The very next instant, she hunched over and violently vomited a mouthful of fresh blood.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Blood droplets splattered against the bluestone steps, blossoming like delicate, fragmented red plum blossoms.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even more spilled over her pristine, pale emerald skirt, splashing like a bucket of burning crimson cinnabar, a sight so stark it stung the eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Staggering weakly, she dragged herself toward the old maple tree.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Dark red maple leaves continued their gentle descent, drifting to rest against her sweat-dampened temples.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Leaning her back heavily against the trunk, she sat down.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The light and shadows in her vision began to sway erratically. Amidst the blur, the hazy silhouette of Xu Mingqing somehow drifted to the surface of her mind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ye Xuehua suddenly smiled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That faint, delicate smile was as light as a firefly weaving through the maple branches. It remained frozen on her lips, unyielding, even as the hand hanging loosely by her side finally let go.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The wind rustled through the maple branches.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Amidst the rustling sounds, her breathing grew progressively fainter until it finally fell completely silent, resting still alongside the scattered leaves upon the steps.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At that exact moment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the Zhou family's Life Lamp Pavilion, the life lamp belonging to Ye Xuehua abruptly snuffed out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Zhou family disciples were struck with sheer terror and quickly reported the matter to the family head. Zhou Zongran then immediately sent someone to the Xu family to notify Zhou Qingfang.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When Zhou Qingfang heard the news, his entire body trembled violently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It truly happened exactly as Xuehua predicted?!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Cao clan!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He forced those words out from between his gritted teeth, his voice raspy and impossibly low.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His hands balled into tight fists, his knuckles turning stark white from the raw force.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Chuan patted him on the shoulder and sighed softly. \"Elder Qingfang, you must restrain your grief. My worthy niece Xuehua sacrificed herself for the Zhou family. This was the path she consciously chose.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Your Zhou family must focus on self-preservation above all else. Act as if you know absolutely nothing about this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Leave all these grudges for the future!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhou Qingfang raised his head to meet Xu Chuan's gaze. Nodding heavily, he replied, \"Grand Elder, I understand!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shortly after, he walked out to the plaza outside the Elder Hall and addressed the messenger. \"Ensure that everything within the Zhou family proceeds as normal.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yes, Ancestor.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The messenger from the Zhou family hurried back immediately.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A few days later.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A guard came to deliver food and discovered Ye Xuehua resting beneath the maple tree.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He rushed over to check, only to realize she was already dead.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He instantly reported the matter to Cao Yulong.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When Cao Yulong arrived and witnessed the scene, his expression turned freezing cold. \"She truly was resolute,\" he remarked indifferently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Find an ice coffin to seal her body in, and just leave it here. Remember, do not let word of this spread!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now is a time of immense celebration for our Cao family. We absolutely cannot let this sour the mood of the other elders.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yes, Young Master Yulong!\" the guard replied with cupped hands.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the blink of an eye, three months passed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The time had come for the Cao family to test the infant's spirit root aptitude.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The child had been named Cao Zhenyi.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Inside a majestic hall within the Cao family estate, eighteen coiled dragon pillars held up the vaulted ceiling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Within the hall, Cao Shengming wore an ink-black brocade robe, the silver hairs at his temples illuminated clearly by the candlelight. He cradled Cao Zhenyi securely in his arms.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Yulong, Cao Defong, and many other Cao family elders were gathered there.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They all wished to bear witness to the talent of their Cao family's ultimate prodigy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not far away, a red sandalwood table held a silver tray, upon which sat a perfectly transparent orb.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Defong looked toward Cao Yulong and offered a warm smile. \"Yulong, you are the child's father. You should be the one to conduct the test personally.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yes, First Elder.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Yulong stepped forward, pinching a slender silver needle between his fingertips. He carefully pricked the infant's tender finger.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A single bead of vivid crimson blood swelled but clung to the skin. With a slight flick of his wrist, the drop plummeted steadily toward the orb.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The instant the bead of blood touched the orb, it seemed to be sucked entirely inside, vanishing without a trace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The great hall abruptly fell silent. Even the soft crackling of the burning candles sounded exceptionally loud.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>All the elders held their breath, their eyes glued to the sight.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A thin layer of sweat broke out over Cao Yulong's hand as he clutched the needle, his intense gaze permanently plastered to the spirit-testing orb.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Suddenly, an incredibly faint purple halo flared up from deep within the crystal orb, looking almost like shattered starlight.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Immediately after, the purple halo expanded at a visible rate, spreading from the core all the way outward until it consumed half of the orb's internal space.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It truly is a Heavenly Spiritual Root!\" A white-haired, white-bearded elder laughed heartily, his voice trembling with sheer excitement. \"Our Cao family has finally produced another Heavenly Spiritual Root! The path to the Golden Core has a true successor!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"And its spirit root purity is at a staggering eighty percent!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Fervent excitement consumed the faces of Cao Shengming and Cao Yulong as well.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Defong's face was plastered with a triumphant grin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The elders all swarmed around Cao Zhenyi, an endless barrage of breathless praises echoing through the hall.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A moment later.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Defong announced, \"Shengming, Yulong, follow me to see the Ancestor. We must personally deliver this news to his venerable self.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"There is no need. I am already aware.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A deep, resonant voice echoed throughout the grand hall.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Immediately afterward, the faint outline of a figure materialized at the entrance, as if he had been standing there all along.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The crowd collectively turned their heads and hurriedly cupped their hands in deep respect. \"Greetings, Ancestor!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Cao Clan Ancestor stepped forward, traversing the distance to Cao Shengming in mere strides as the surrounding elders hastily backed away.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Shengming gently offered the child forward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Cao Clan Ancestor took the baby, lowered his head to examine him, and smiled faintly. \"A fire-attribute constitution. Since wood fuels fire, it is no wonder his spirit root purity reached eighty percent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That is quite a bit higher than my own back in the day.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It is all thanks to our Cao family's divine providence!\" Cao Shengming spoke with profound respect. \"Will you take Zhenyi as your disciple, Ancestor?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"There will be time enough for him to follow me after he reaches Foundation Establishment.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yes, Ancestor.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, the very next second.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Cao Clan Ancestor's expression underwent a violent change, his brows locking tightly together.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing this, Cao Defong asked in utter bewilderment, \"Ancestor, what has happened?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A suffocating pressure abruptly exploded outward, crashing down like heavy mountains onto the shoulders of everyone in the grand hall.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The crowd immediately plummeted to their knees, desperately screaming in unison, \"Please quell your anger, Ancestor!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"We do not know how we have offended you!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You don't know?\" The Cao Clan Ancestor's face turned completely ashen. \"How exactly did you lot protect this child?! You didn't even notice that a secret art had been planted inside him?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"What secret art?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone present was left entirely dumbfounded.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Cao Defong, see for yourself!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Defong shot up, took the child, and instantly drove his divine sense into the boy's body. Within moments, he discovered a faint, almost imperceptible sliver of green lurking inside his dantian.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was inextricably bound to his dantian.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"A wood-element secret method? This... how could this be?!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"And... this secret method contains a trace of withering power! This child... he...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Cao Shengming, Cao Yulong, what in the world is going on here?!\" Cao Defong whirled around to face them, his voice quivering with blinding fury!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Ancestor! First Elder! We definitely had nothing to do with this! Wait, Ye Xuehua! It must have been that vile bitch!\" Cao Yulong yelled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Defong gritted his teeth in silent hatred. However, he knew now was not the time for assigning blame. The most pressing matter was dispelling the secret art from Cao Zhenyi.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Otherwise, the flawless prodigy of the Cao family would be thoroughly crippled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Cao family had paid a heavy price to bring about his birth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Ancestor, can you undo this art?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Cao Clan Ancestor scoffed coldly. \"It must either be dispelled by the caster themselves, or we must find a cultivator specialized in this path, or perhaps a Golden Core stage immortal cultivator who practices wood-element arts.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Cao Yulong, since Ye Xuehua is the one who cast this secret art, go force her to dispel it immediately! If she has any demands, the Cao family will agree to them all!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Yulong's body violently shook like a leaf in the wind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Hurry up and go!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"To answer the First Elder, Ye Xuehua has long since... committed suicide!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"She's dead?!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The crowd instantly erupted into a chaotic uproar.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Cao Clan Ancestor unleashed a frigid snort, forcefully snapped his sleeves, and immediately stormed away.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It seems you are not suited to serve as our family head. If this child cannot be fully restored, you will remain a useless, idle elder for the rest of your days!\" Cao Defong's teeth ground together in fury as he swept his icy gaze toward Cao Shengming.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Do the other elders have any objections?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"We yield entirely to the First Elder's commands.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Second Elder's eyes shifted slyly. \"Then who shall act as the temporary family head?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"We will discuss that matter in two days!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Two days later.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Cao clan held a clan council.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The first purpose was to elect a new head of the Cao clan. The second was to invite every Foundation Establishment stage immortal cultivator across Great Wei who practiced wood-element cultivation methods to the Imperial City.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The new family head came from the Second Elder's branch. His name was Cao Jinsheng, and he was also Cao Yuchen's grandfather.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Naturally, there were those within the Cao family who practiced wood-element cultivation methods.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, only two or three of them had reached Foundation Establishment, and they were all merely at the early stage.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Those who possessed late Foundation Establishment or even Foundation Establishment perfection cultivation bases were primarily practitioners of fire and metal elements.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They all thoroughly examined Cao Zhenyi's condition, but they were entirely helpless against the Seed of Withered Wood firmly rooted in his dantian.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"First Elder, Second Elder, we have never witnessed such a secret art before. However, we can clearly feel a surge of withered wood power, which is the complete opposite of the boundless vitality normally found in wood-element spells.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This kind of power represents an extremely obscure branch of the wood element. It should be a technique recorded in ancient cultivation methods.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The cultivation methods we have learned do not cover this whatsoever.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You are dismissed,\" Cao Defong waved his hand exhaustedly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yes.\" The group cupped their hands and withdrew.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Ye Xuehua is dead, but she was Zhou Qingfang's disciple. There is a high chance they practiced the identical cultivation method,\" Cao Defong said as he fixed his stare on Cao Yulong. \"Take a trip to Yuehu Commandery and invite Zhou Qingfang here.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Who knows, the Zhou family might even have had a hand in Ye Xuehua's actions!\" A flash of venomous hatred tore through Cao Shengming's eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Do not act rashly!\" Cao Defong barked furiously. \"The Zhou family is no longer an entity you can just touch whenever you please! Furthermore, the absolute priority right now is neutralizing the secret art upon Zhenyi!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Understood,\" Cao Shengming replied.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Yulong promptly left on his task.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Aside from Zhou Qingfang, they also dispatched people to invite the remaining wood-element Foundation Establishment immortal cultivators.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, across all the commanderies of Great Wei, they only knew of six or seven such individuals.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yuehu Commandery, Dongxi.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Outside the grand array.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cao Yulong stood suspended in the air, sending his voice straight through the grand array. \"Cao Yulong of the imperial Cao clan respectfully requests an audience with Daoist friend Zhou Qingfang.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In just a few moments.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The news swept across all of Dongxi.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Dezhao, Xu Mingwei, and Zhou Qingfang—almost everyone was aware of his arrival and had quickly gathered in one place.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I shall step out and see what business he has with me,\" Zhou Qingfang declared.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Dezhao nodded.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just then, a voice suddenly echoed out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was Xu Chuan's.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Elder Qingfang does not need to go out. Mingwei, go inform Cao Yulong. Tell him that due to the death of his beloved disciple and the grief of not being able to see her one last time, Elder Zhou has entered closed-door cultivation unto death.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tell him to come back some other time!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yes, Father.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Mingwei replied before immediately rushing outside the grand array, relaying the message exactly as instructed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"What is the meaning of this? How could it be so coincidental?!\" Cao Yulong glared directly at Xu Mingwei. \"I refuse to believe it!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Let me inside to verify it myself!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"What, is this how the Cao clan bullies people? You wish to forcefully intrude upon another's clan grounds?!\" Xu Mingwei sneered apathetically. \"Then can I just casually waltz straight into your Cao clan estate in the exact same manner?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You—\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Daoist friend Cao, I will have to ask you to leave!\"\u003C\u002Fp>",6381,"2026-06-06T10:09:39.416Z",1,"novelbin.me","737753c3bc34ec1f40b4eb1a5313e8a4e375e0767a47b81f7168f2957b99c8c8","starting-from-the-blood-lineage-genealogy-to-bui-chapter-229","starting-from-the-blood-lineage-genealogy-to-bui-chapter-227",454,null]