Chapter 157: Took in Qin Ruobing!

When the news of Lu Zhangsheng accepting the challenge spread, it was like a single spark falling into a vat of oil, and the entire Qingning Prefecture began to tremble.

Even many Heavenly Prides of Qingzhou were closely following the matter.

Countless Martial Artists were extremely curious—who would prove stronger in this duel.

At the same time, numerous Heavenly Prides and geniuses of Qingzhou hurried toward Qingning Prefecture one after another.

In an instant, Qingning Prefecture grew even more lively, as if about to face a grand celebration.

Afternoon.

Lu Zhangsheng and the three siblings of the Fang family sat upright on chairs in the courtyard.

The few of them drank Spirit Wine, the atmosphere quite harmonious.

At this moment, Fang Qing wore a trace of worry on her face: "Changsheng, are you confident about this battle?"

In her view, Ye Yiyang being able to suppress the Prefecture City for over a decade was absolutely terrifying.

Coupled with his breakthrough this time, there would surely be a vicious fight between the two.

If Lu Zhangsheng ran into any danger during the battle, it would be over.

Regarding this, she was also quite worried in her heart.

Fang Tao beside her was likewise somewhat restless and uneasy.

He knew Ye Yiyang's great name very well.

Although he had confidence in his own Changsheng-ge, he still felt somewhat uncertain at heart.

"Rest assured, this battle will be won."

Lu Zhangsheng smiled faintly, picked up his wine cup and drained it in one gulp, displaying full boldness.

Ever since his Killing Intent broke through to ten-tenths, he feared no challenge.

Even the innate spirit-beast whelps of the Xiao Shi Jie could not match his foundation.

The amplification brought by all his Cultivation Techniques and martial skills, combined with his perfected muscles, bones, and membrane, was extremely terrifying.

Even he himself did not know where his own limit lay.

This battle with Ye Yiyang was also a good chance to verify his own strength.

Hearing Lu Zhangsheng speak with such confidence, Fang Qing and her brother also relaxed slightly.

Just as the two were conversing—

"Boom boom boom…"

A series of rumbling sounds suddenly came from high above, accompanied by a gust of wild wind sweeping in all directions.

Even the surrounding Spiritual Energy began to grow turbulent.

"Whoosh…"

A streak of white airflow descended from the void, spiraling above Lu Zhangsheng's head—quite wondrous.

Lu Zhangsheng felt a wave of coolness in his heart, and even his mind became much clearer.

"What is this?"

Lu Zhangsheng's face was full of surprise.

Such an anomaly surely meant something major had happened.

"Come."

He called out softly toward the void.

"Your subordinate is here."

A curvaceous, jet-black figure walked out from the garden.

She then cupped her fists respectfully toward Lu Zhangsheng.

"What are your orders, my lord?"

Yue Shulan bowed gracefully, her expression somewhat complicated.

Her own mother had originally intended for her to serve as a personal maidservant, but unexpectedly she had become the head of the shadow guards.

The two had once been teammates, yet now Lu Zhangsheng had already risen to heights she could hardly imagine.

Every time the deep hours of night came, she could not help but resent him a little for being so oblivious to romance.

Even Fang Qing found it rather strange in her heart.

Such a fine great beauty, yet Lu Zhangsheng had arranged her to do the work of a shadow guard.

"Go quickly to the Zong Dian, inquire with the Document under Lord Liang's command, and find out what has happened."

Lu Zhangsheng smiled faintly.

As if he had not noticed the other's enchanting figure.

After the beautiful Gang Leader Yue Wanting sent her adopted daughter over, he had directly let the other take charge of the intelligence system.

All intelligence from the Haisha Gang within the Prefecture City was collected and compiled by the other, then reported up to him.

He had discovered that this mother-daughter pair had extremely high talent in intelligence work.

It also saved him a great deal of trouble.

"Your subordinate obeys the order."

Yue Shulan bowed at the waist, then turned and departed toward the rear.

Walking along the gravel path—

Her heart was quite bashful.

Her own mother often wrote letters, asking whether she had "succeeded" yet.

Making her constantly distracted and unable to keep herself composed.

One hour later.

Yue Shulan appeared before Lu Zhangsheng once again, still holding a piece of intelligence in her hand.

Lu Zhangsheng took the intelligence, and at a single glance, his expression shifted slightly.

"The dragon veins of Dazhou are in turmoil? No longer able to suppress the vast fortune?"

"Causing fortune to converge upon the many Heavenly Prides and Strong Persons of the world?"

After reading the intelligence in his hand, a brilliant light burned in Lu Zhangsheng's eyes.

The curtain of the Great Struggle had already risen.

The more powerful the individual, the vaster the fortune that converged upon them.

As for the wondrous uses of fortune, there were many as well.

Simply put, the stronger one's fortune, the greater the chance of encountering strange encounters, and even when facing danger, one could turn ill omens into blessings.

It could also improve a Martial Artist's aptitude—its efficacy could be called heaven-defying.

That white cloud atop Lu Zhangsheng's head just now was Heavenly Pride fortune.

With fortune's blessing, he felt his own aptitude had grown considerably stronger.

Originally his aptitude had been merely ordinary, but now it had reached the Excellent level.

If he were to claim the title of First Heaven's Proud Son of Dazhou, that fortune would likely be astonishing.

At this moment, Lu Zhangsheng set a goal in his heart—to become the First Heaven's Proud Son of Dazhou within three months.

Gather a massive amount of fortune, then ascend directly to Innate Strength, a dragon entering the great sea.

Relying on this fortune, he estimated his own aptitude would also surge dramatically, reaching the Heavenly Pride level.

……

The First Branch Hall.

Ye Yiyang looked at the intelligence in his hand, and suddenly a resplendent light burst forth in his eyes.

At this moment, he had a reason he must win.

Defeating Lu Zhangsheng, stepping onto the Dazhou Heavenly Pride Ranking, and achieving Innate Strength after obtaining a massive amount of fortune—that would be a smooth road ahead.

It would even be of great benefit to his future Martial Dao path.

The battle with Lu Zhangsheng five days from now was also the curtain of this Great Struggle, and he must give his all.

Let these two Heavenly Prides be the ones to open it.

Thinking of this, Ye Yiyang slowly closed his eyes, adjusting his own Status with full effort.

……

The Zong Dian of the Town Demon Bureau.

Liang Jinghui and three Innate Strength experts sat upright in their chairs.

Their expressions were rather solemn.

"The nation's fortune is in turmoil—truly troubled times. Now many Heavenly Prides have begun emerging from seclusion to vie for fortune, and ancient sects and noble clans are emerging one after another. A chaotic era is about to begin."

A Black-Clothed Elder let out a sigh.

"That group of Demon Persons will also strike in the shadows. I'm afraid the days ahead will not be peaceful."

Liang Jinghui's eyes were deep and distant: "A centipede dies but never falls—the Dazhou will not fall for now. As for future matters, we'll speak of them in the future…"

His voice was melodious, as if possessing a kind of magic.

"What are everyone's views on the battle between Lu Zhangsheng and Ye Yiyang?"

A middle-aged man spoke with a smile.

"This Seat believes Ye Yiyang will have a slight edge."

The Black-Clothed Elder smiled faintly.

Ye Yiyang had long served as the First Heaven's Proud Son, and everyone was very clear about his strength.

"I, on the other hand, believe Lu Zhangsheng will prevail."

The middle-aged man smiled and took a sip of tea.

In his view, the power of Killing Intent would surely give him an edge over Ye Yiyang.

The surrounding crowd began to discuss among themselves.

"Everyone shall wait and see."

Liang Jinghui smiled faintly.

Whichever of the two won, it would be a great cause for celebration.

The victor, gaining another portion of fortune, would likely rise yet another level.

Everyone present grew rather expectant.

……

As the fortune of Dazhou churned in turmoil.

Throughout Dazhou's vast territory, genius Martial Artists across the ninety-nine provinces each received a portion of fortune.

Many people, in order to gather fortune and rise another level, began challenging one another in succession; even Qingzhou was growing increasingly lively.

A large group of genius Martial Artists were all watching the battle between Lu Zhangsheng and Ye Yiyang.

There were even those who wished to defeat the two of them and collect the portions of fortune in their hands.

For a time, within Dazhou's territory, undercurrents began to stir.

……

Qingzhou City.

Inside a Main Hall of the Town Demon Bureau.

Ning Wanfeng slowly opened his eyes, a sharp glint flickering within them.

It seems I must pay a visit to Qingning Prefecture.

Now, fortune rests upon many Heavenly Prides; as long as he defeats each of the Imperial Court's Top Heaven's Proud Sons in succession, he will gather the strongest fortune.

To enter the Primordial Realm with invincible might—this is his Dao.

Before me, Ning Wanfeng, who dares speak of invincibility?

……

In another magnificent Main Hall.

A white-robed man stood with his hands behind his back, his gaze distant.

"Has the Great Struggle begun? This time, This Seat shall claim first place."

As the second Heavenly Pride in Qingzhou City to achieve Ten-Tenths True Intent, he would never submit to anyone.

Ning Wanfeng would never allow him to bow.

Meanwhile, many Heavenly Prides within Qingzhou City began to move.

They converged toward Qingning Prefecture. The battle between Lu Zhangsheng and Ye Yiyang had reached a moment of universal attention.

……

Nightfall, the moon bright, stars sparse.

Lu Zhangsheng practiced his sword form in the courtyard, his steps growing increasingly ethereal.

At that moment, sounds came from beyond the courtyard gate.

A woman in purple stepped gracefully forward—it was Qin Ruobing.

She wore a long purple gown that accentuated her stunning, curvaceous figure.

A faint blush adorned her face, as if she had drunk a little wine.

She approached Lu Zhangsheng slowly, each step blooming like a lotus.

Lu Zhangsheng sheathed his blade and stood still, puzzled.

What business could she have visiting him at this hour?

"Do you have confidence for the duel five days from now?"

Qin Ruobing smiled sweetly, radiating irresistible charm.

Her voice was soft, like a golden oriole's song.

"Absolutely certain."

Lu Zhangsheng smiled faintly, exuding powerful confidence.

"You're always so confident."

Qin Ruobing smiled gently, like a spring breeze.

Since she first came to know Lu Zhangsheng, she had never seen him flustered.

He was always composed, calm, and assured—that was precisely what she admired most.

Lu Zhangsheng smiled but said nothing.

He knew she hadn't come at this hour merely to praise him.

As expected.

After a moment, Qin Ruobing gazed deeply and sighed softly: "I'm leaving—for the Imperial Capital. I leave tomorrow."

With just those few words, she fell silent. The two were enveloped in quiet.

Lu Zhangsheng's expression froze—he hadn't expected her to be reassigned so soon.

And so abruptly.

He knew Qin Ruobing came from the Imperial Capital; her origins were likely significant.

This parting might mean they would not meet again for a long time.

Qin Ruobing gazed quietly at Lu Zhangsheng, her eyes shimmering with a hint of mist.

With her flushed cheeks, she looked even more alluring.

"Did you drink?"

Lu Zhangsheng smelled strong wine on Qin Ruobing.

"Mm."

Qin Ruobing nodded, her voice barely a whisper.

The atmosphere grew tender.

Lu Zhangsheng understood her quiet feelings—since their encounter in the cave that day, their relationship had shifted.

Tonight, she had come specifically to bid farewell—he knew the "deeper meaning" behind it.

Lu Zhangsheng made no further hesitation; he reached out and firmly took Qin Ruobing's soft hand.

A gentle warmth flowed from his palm, stirring his spirit.

Qin Ruobing's face flushed red; after a slight, half-hearted resistance, she let him hold her.

Then, the two walked together along the dim corridor, heading toward the bedroom.

Above them, Moonlight poured down, spilling gently over their shoulders, like a pair of celestial lovers.

"Squeak…"

Soon, Lu Zhangsheng brought Qin Ruobing into the room and closed the door.

He lifted her waist, and amid her half-resistance, strode toward the bed.

"Mmm…"

With a soft moan, Qin Ruobing completed her final transformation.

Her arms clung tightly to Lu Zhangsheng, her mind sinking into a haze of bliss.

The room echoed with a surge of sound, like ocean waves, one after another, as if never ceasing.

Both were Transcendence Martial Artists, with exceptional physical constitutions—truly evenly matched.

That night was exceedingly long.

……

The next day, when Lu Zhangsheng opened his eyes, the woman's figure was already gone from his side.

Only a faint, lingering fragrance remained on the pillow, as if recounting the pleasures of last night.

Lu Zhangsheng let out a soft sigh, feeling a quiet sense of loss.

When he achieved Great Completion in the Martial Dao, he would surely go to the Imperial Capital to find her—those days were not far off.

In the days that followed.

Lu Zhangsheng remained at home, adjusting his Status, cultivating his body and spirit.

Preparing for the coming great battle.

Three days later, at dusk.

Imperial Yong Palace.

As one of the nine Imperial Princes, Yong Wang wielded immense power, with a host of Strong Persons under his command.

He also had many children—dozens in total—and even more grandchildren.

Inside a magnificent Main Hall of Yong Palace.

Qin Ruobing walked slowly into the Main Hall, then stood gracefully in its center.

Her right hand gently rested on her abdomen, as if protecting something of utmost importance, her face always smiling.

At that moment, a middle-aged man with an imposing demeanor entered from behind the Main Hall.

He was Qin Chaoyang, one of Yong Wang's thirty-six sons and Qin Ruobing's father.

"You've returned. I gave you a chance—years have passed and you've still not proven yourself…"

Qin Chaoyang's tone was icy.

He had been more than generous to this Shunu; had it not been for her mother's desperate pleas, he would have long since betrothed Qin Ruobing as a political marriage pawn.

That was the fate of Imperial Clan members: either marry into noble families or allied with foreign tribes and barbarians.

"Father, I'm sorry to have disappointed you."

Qin Ruobing bit her lip, her expression tinged with resentment.

Her talent was mediocre, and without Imperial Clan resources to support her, she had not even reached the Primordial Stage after years of cultivation.

This had dealt a severe blow to her confidence.

Then Qin Chaoyang suddenly noticed something strange, his face turning frosty: "You've lost your virginity? Who did this?"

His voice was utterly cold.

He never expected anyone would dare lay hands on an Imperial Clan woman.

A powerful aura surged toward Qin Ruobing, like a mountain crushing down.

Qin Ruobing felt her chest tighten, struggling to breathe, teeth clenched.

Yet she showed no intention of confessing.

"This was all my own choice… it has nothing to do with him…"

"Hmph…"

Qin Chaoyang snorted, turned, and walked out of the Main Hall.

"This matter must not be spoken of. You are confined to your quarters for five years."

He still had some pity for his own daughter—if the Emperor found out, even he might bear blame.

Then Qin Ruobing would be handed over to the Clan Office for punishment—that would be troublesome.

"Daughter obeys your command."

Qin Ruobing's expression eased; she knew she had passed this test—for now.

Yet even faced with countless trials, she would never regret it—she firmly believed Lu Zhangsheng would come to the Imperial Capital to find her.

And she trusted her own judgment.

……

Two hours later.

In a dim, secluded Pian Dian.

"Have you found out who he is?"

Qin Chaoyang spoke softly to the shadowed corner.

"Shiiii…"

A pitch-black figure darted out, like a ghost.

"Your Excellency, all information on this man is here."

He placed the dossier on the table before him, then vanished back into the shadows.

Qin Chaoyang picked up the dossier and scanned it carefully.

After a moment, a flash of sharp light gleamed in his eyes.

"Lu Zhangsheng? A Heavenly Pride with Ten-Tenths True Intent?"

"Too lowly a birth—Heavenly Pride alone is far from enough."

"If he could claim the title of First Heaven's Proud Son of Dazhou, then he might be worthy of Bing'er."

As a member of the Imperial Family, he had seen countless Heavenly Prides.

Yet Qin Chaoyang was willing to give Lu Zhangsheng a chance—let him see how he seized it.

"Come here."

A soft command rang out.

"Your subordinate is here."

A man in black dropped to one knee, his face full of reverence.

"For this Heavenly Pride battle, go keep an eye on that man, Lu Zhangsheng."

"If he can break into the top one hundred, bestow this item upon him."

Having spoken, he directly produced a round crystal and set it on the table.

The crystal gleamed with dazzling light—clearly a rare treasure.

For a gifted genius like that, Qin Chaoyang would naturally invest in nurturing him; gifting away a daughter would be nothing to him.

But if the man's performance fell short, then he would face Qin Chaoyang's thunderous wrath.

The top hundred on the Heavenly Pride List was also the bottom line Qin Chaoyang had drawn for Lu Zhangsheng.

In his eyes, Lu Zhangsheng had only a twenty percent chance.

The Heavenly Pride in the top hundred were simply too terrifying; even he himself back then had only placed just outside the three hundred.

……

Time slipped slowly by.

Soon the day of Lu Zhangsheng's battle with Ye Yiyang arrived.

That day, the Square of the Town-Demon Bureau was already packed with Martial Artists, a dense, bustling crowd.

Quite a few Heavenly Pride had also come from the Prehistoric City.

A crowd of people all waited in silence.

(End of this chapter)