Protect Our Patriarch

……

"Blocked, it's blocked."

Wei Wenxun staggered, almost losing his balance. Fortunately, Wang Shouzhe was behind him and steadied him with a hand.

The gap between the early Celestial Realm and the Purple Mansion Realm was simply too vast.

Facing a Purple Mansion Realm cultivator, he, a Celestial Realm cultivator, was as fragile and helpless as a child. For a moment, he truly thought he was about to die. Now, he felt as if he had narrowly escaped death, his whole body weak and exhausted.

Wang Shouzhe patted his shoulder. "Thank you, Commander Wei." His tone carried a hint of camaraderie.

He remained calm, as if everything was within his expectations. The only thing he didn't foresee was Wei Wenxun instinctively stepping in front of him.

After several deep breaths, Wei Wenxun finally regained his composure, though his heart was still in shock. "Luckily, the Fire Fox Ancestor was here. Master Wang, did you foresee this?"

Wei Wenxun then commanded some soldiers to protect Wang Shouzhe and his group. Although these soldiers were like ants in the eyes of a Purple Mansion Realm cultivator, they were still a force.

Wang Shouzhe smiled without speaking further, looking up at the sky.

In the sky, the residual energy quickly dissipated.

A figure reappeared in everyone's sight.

His straw raincoat had turned to ashes at some point, replaced by a purple robe of artifact quality.

A mysterious mask covered his face, obscuring his features, with only white hair cascading down the sides, indicating his advanced age.

He stood in mid-air with his hands behind his back, looking down at the seven-tailed spiritual fox below, his voice tinged with surprise. "The Fire Fox Ancestor of the Yuwen Clan?"

"Old man, who are you?" The Fire Fox Ancestor's seven tails flared like flames, baring its teeth in anger. "How dare you lay a hand on my handsome brother Shouzhe?"

"Who I am is none of your business, mere spiritual beast." The masked elder snorted coldly. "You, a newly advanced seventh-rank spiritual beast, think you can stop me? Wishful thinking!"

With that, his aura surged dramatically.

Behind him, a massive shadow appeared.

It was a colossal creature resembling a giant fish, with enormous fins that looked like wings. In the hazy outline, long whiskers could be faintly seen fluttering.

As the shadow appeared, a long, ancient cry echoed from the void, carrying a sense of timelessness and grandeur.

The sea surface, which had been churning, suddenly stilled, then erupted into massive waves, as if welcoming their king.

Clearly, this was his Dharma Aspect.

The Cao Clan had many awakened bloodlines, but the most common were water-related. Among them, Ancestor Cao Kunhao's bloodline was the most outstanding, with his Dharma Aspect being a Dragon Whale.

This was a giant beast from ancient times, said to rival the true dragons of the sea in power, dominating the oceans in ancient times.

With the enhancement of his Dharma Aspect, a vast amount of primordial water energy was forcibly drawn from the depths of the sea.

The overwhelming power of the laws spread unchecked.

Ancestor Kunhao's eyes gleamed fiercely, and he slammed his palm down.

In an instant, brilliant light burst forth.

The vast primordial water energy transformed into a towering wave, roaring down towards the seven-tailed fire fox. Although revealing his Dharma Aspect might expose his identity, so be it.

If Wang Shouzhe was not eliminated, it would be a disaster for the Cao Clan. And his lifespan was already running out.

At that moment, the momentum was like the collapse of the Milky Way, threatening to engulf everything. Even the sea during a storm was no match for this power.

"Dragon Whale Dharma Aspect!" Wei Wenxun's breath caught, finally realizing, "A Purple Mansion Realm expert of the primordial water lineage, with a Dragon Whale Dharma Aspect, could it be... Ancestor Kunhao of the Cao Clan from Longyuan Commandery?!"

At the Purple Mansion Realm, one could hardly be an unknown figure. Moreover, Ancestor Kunhao was a prominent figure of the Purple Mansion Cao Clan, naturally a key focus of the authorities.

Even though Wei Wenxun had been serving in Longzuo Commandery, he had heard some rumors. Especially since the Cao Clan now harbored deep hatred for the Wang Clan.

Wang Shouzhe's eyes narrowed slightly, showing no surprise.

He had thoroughly investigated the Cao Clan.

If the Cao Clan's leader, Cao Bangning, had some brains, it was thanks to his constant mediation and decisive actions that the Cao Clan could escape the charge of colluding with pirates.

But this family might have relied too much on pirates, always carrying a domineering bandit air in their actions. Their guidance to the younger generation lacked planning, pampering the most talented children excessively.

As a result, their prodigies, whether Cao Youqing or Cao Bangyan, were spoiled, unable to endure any grievances, and were short-sighted and vengeful.

Even Ancestor Kunhao had such a personality back then.

Given the huge loss the Cao Clan suffered this time, it would be surprising if they could restrain themselves and do nothing.

"Whether he's Ancestor Kunhao or Ancestor Kundi! Daring to attack brother Shouzhe is a grave sin!" The seven-tailed fire fox looked up at the Dragon Whale in the sky, its golden eyes suddenly filled with ferocity. It bared its teeth and roared, "Roar! Old man, prepare to die!"

With that, it leaped into the air, charging towards the overwhelming force as if to overturn the sky.

Man and fox immediately tangled in mid-air.

For a moment, the sky was filled with foxfire, turning half the sky red with flames. The primordial water energy surged and clashed, the powerful energy waves making hearts tremble.

The sky roiled, even the sea below was affected, churning with massive waves.

However, the seven-tailed fire fox was ultimately disadvantaged by its lower realm. Moreover, being at sea, where primordial water energy was abundant and fire energy scarce, it quickly fell into a disadvantage.

Several times, it was knocked back by the overwhelming force, its massive body sliding hundreds of feet in the air before stabilizing.

"Master Wang, the situation is dire~~" Wei Wenxun's heart tightened. "Ancestor Kunhao is an old Purple Mansion Master, very powerful. The Fire Fox Ancestor is still too young, it might not be able to hold on. I think you should retreat first~"

Upon hearing this, Wang Shouzhe hadn't spoken yet, but Wang Zong'an laughed. "Uncle Wei, don't worry. Father must have already made arrangements."

He had grown up witnessing one miracle after another.

Although his father always lost fights to his mother, it didn't affect Wang Shouzhe's esteemed position in Wang Zong'an's heart.

Sure enough.

Seeing the Fire Fox Ancestor struggling, Wang Shouzhe turned around and cupped his hands. "In that case, I must trouble the two seniors."

As soon as he finished speaking.

Two figures stepped out from the family guard ranks, one after the other.

At first glance, the two seemed unremarkable, but as they walked with the bearing of dragons and tigers, a powerful aura rose from them, not at all inferior to the seven-tailed fire fox.

As they stepped out, they casually wiped off their disguises.

"Commandery, Commandery Governor?!" Wei Wenxun's eyes widened.

The one in front was actually the Commandery Governor of Longzuo Commandery, Taishi Ankang.

And the one beside Taishi Ankang was a slightly plump, kind-looking middle-aged man. This man, dressed in luxurious clothes with graying temples, looked like an ordinary wealthy man.

However, being with Taishi Ankang, his identity was obvious.

Wei Wenxun hurriedly saluted the two, respectfully saying, "Commandery Governor. Ancestor Shaoyuan."

This was none other than Ancestor Shaoyuan of the Purple Mansion Qian Clan.

Ancestor Shaoyuan waved his hand, his gaze turning to the sky where the seven-tailed fire fox and Cao Kunhao were fighting.

"When Shouzhe mentioned it earlier, I thought he was exaggerating. I didn't expect..." He sighed. "Ancestor Kunhao was once a great prodigy, unmatched in his time. Who would have thought he'd fall so far in his later years."

He was over a hundred years younger than Ancestor Kunhao. When Ancestor Kunhao advanced to the Purple Mansion Realm, he had just reached the mid-Celestial Realm and had witnessed Ancestor Kunhao's glory. Naturally, he felt deeply moved.

"The struggle between clans is about the mindset and vision of the leaders." Taishi Ankang was much calmer. "Once the Qingluo Garrison is established, it will greatly benefit the Cao Clan's development. If they had a long-term vision, they would know to endure for the sake of the clan's growth. Unfortunately, they took too many shortcuts and unknowingly narrowed their path."

From different positions, perspectives naturally differ.

He had been in the Commandery Governor's position for over a century, witnessing the rise and fall of the Ping'an Wang Clan, and its transformation into the Changning Wang Clan. The struggles and fluctuations among the commandery's families were not uncommon, though few rose as quickly as the Wang Clan.

Having seen much, he had fewer sentiments about the rise and fall of families.

Hearing this, Ancestor Shaoyuan sighed again, but stepped forward, speaking to the sky. "Ancestor Kunhao, why persist? Considering the ties between our clans, surrender now, and I will ensure your life is spared."

His voice, powerful and amplified by profound energy, spread through the turbulent sky.

"What?"

In the sky, Ancestor Kunhao, fighting the seven-tailed fire fox, narrowed his eyes, sweeping his divine sense and immediately recognizing the two.

Qian Shaoyuan? And Taishi Ankang?

Almost instantly, he realized, "No, it's a trap!"

In that moment, his momentum weakened, allowing the Fire Fox Ancestor to gain the upper hand.

But Ancestor Kunhao was decisive. Realizing the trap, he immediately decided to retreat.

With a long cry from the Dragon Whale shadow behind him, he struck the seven-tailed fire fox with all his might, then enveloped himself in brilliant blue light and fled.

"Chase!" Taishi Ankang's eyes sharpened. "We must not let him escape today!"

As he spoke, his aura surged.

Amidst the sound of metal clashing, a set of dark armor quickly covered him. He soared into the sky, transforming into a yellow light, chasing after Ancestor Kunhao.

Ancestor Shaoyuan's eyes narrowed. With a wave, a golden abacus appeared in his hand, and he too was enveloped in golden light, shooting into the sky.

"Old man, where do you think you're going?!"

The seven-tailed fire fox, furious, leaped into the air, turning into a red light and chasing after them.

In the blink of an eye, four streaks of light shot across the sky, disappearing into the distance.

With the departure of the Purple Mansion Realm powerhouses.

Many felt a sense of relief, some even collapsing to the ground, trembling.

Wei Wenxun, overseeing the construction, did not blame them. Even he, a Celestial Realm cultivator, felt a sense of impending doom under such overwhelming power.

Purple Mansion Masters were indeed extraordinary, each having comprehended their own path. Every move contained the power of the heavenly laws. In this sense, the Purple Mansion Realm was far beyond the mortal realm. On Earth, they would be akin to terrestrial immortals.

"Fortunately, it's over." Wei Wenxun's face regained some color. "Who would have thought Ancestor Kunhao of the Cao Clan would be so ruthless. Luckily, Master Wang was wise and farsighted, arranging for the Fire Fox Ancestor, Ancestor Shaoyuan, and the Commandery Governor to protect us."

As he spoke, his attitude towards Wang Shouzhe became more flattering.

This Master Wang was truly a figure who could turn the tides. His ability to foresee the enemy's moves was one thing, but to have the Commandery Governor and Ancestor Shaoyuan come together showed his immense influence.

"Over?" Wang Shouzhe, hands behind his back, smiled subtly. "I'm afraid the storm is not over yet. Celestial Maiden Youqing, since you're here, why not show yourself?"

"Celestial Maiden Youqing... Saintly Land prodigy Cao Youqing?" Wei Wenxun's face changed drastically. "Is she behind all this?"

As soon as he finished speaking.

A figure shot up from not far away, speeding towards them.

As the hidden aura burst forth, the fisherman's clothes turned to dust, revealing a celestial and heroic female Saintly Land prodigy's battle attire.

This figure was naturally Cao Youqing.

At the Celestial Realm, one's body strength and power were beyond the mortal realm.

In a crushing battle, it was manageable, but in a fight between equals, there was no spare energy to protect ordinary clothes.

Thus, high-grade battle attire became essential for experts. Not only did it require no extra effort to protect, but it also provided additional defense.

Cao Youqing's battle attire was a treasure-grade outfit provided by the Saintly Land for female Celestial Realm prodigies, made from dozens of high-end materials.

Any woman in Daqian wearing this would be respected and honored, as it symbolized her prodigious status and potential to become a Purple Mansion Master.

But with Wang Shouzhe, this didn't work.

He coldly said, "Cao Youqing, so it was you causing trouble."

"Wang Shouzhe!" Cao Youqing's eyebrows furrowed, her pretty face full of resentment and unwillingness. "Why? Why can you always predict my actions?"

Wang Shouzhe ignored her, turning to Wang Zong'an. "Zong'an, this is what I've often told you, 'character determines fate.' Back then, Cao Youqing attacked Qian Xuehan in public. From her actions, two things were clear. One, she is ruthless and audacious. Two, she is extremely confident, often leaving no room for retreat."

"After repelling her, I had her background investigated. It turned out she was arrogant and vengeful from a young age. Even at the Lingyun Holy Land, she often clashed with others, lording over those she bested and seeking revenge when she lost."

Cao Youqing's face turned pale with anger. "What does my character have to do with you?"

"Father, I understand." Wang Zong'an, with a scholarly demeanor, bowed. "Father knew she was narrow-minded and would act against us. So, he set a trap, exposing a flaw to lure her in. I have learned."

"What?"

Cao Youqing was stunned. So that's it...

No wonder she was repeatedly outmaneuvered. Her character was her biggest flaw.

Though filled with resentment, she had learned. The years of suffering in the Land of Thunder Punishment had somewhat tempered her.

Wang Shouzhe patted his son's shoulder. "Zong'an, think it over."

After a moment's thought, Wang Zong'an's body shook, and he realized. "Father, I truly understand. You mean to warn me against impulsiveness and making enemies lightly. Otherwise, it will harm not only oneself but also the clan. So, the Cao Clan's downfall is also due to Cao Youqing."

"This..."

Cao Youqing's body trembled again.

The most truthful words often come from the enemy.

Her repeated recklessness had dragged the Cao Clan into the abyss. In her quest for revenge, she had now even lost her ancestor...

"Alright, alright, I, Cao Youqing..."

"Fool!" Before she could finish, Wang Shouzhe patted Wang Zong'an's shoulder again. "Cao Youqing's character issues are largely due to her family's influence. As the saying goes, 'a crooked upper beam leads to a crooked lower beam.' A family with flawed rules will inevitably have problems. Without Cao Youqing, there would be Cao Shaoqing, Cao Laoqing, and so on... As the young clan leader, you bear a heavy responsibility and must set an example for the clan."

Wang Zong'an's body shook with shame. "Father's words are etched in my heart. Whatever important task you have, just instruct me, and I will not disappoint you."

As he spoke, he was secretly excited.

His father had brought him along, guiding and teaching him. Could it be... he, Wang Zong'an, was finally... ready to bear more responsibility?

Even Cao Youqing was momentarily stunned, thinking Wang Shouzhe's words made sense.

Could it be that the Cao Clan, and she, Cao Youqing, were truly in the wrong?

However, she envied Wang Zong'an, having such a wise father to guide him. Unfortunately, her own father...

"Not at all. The reason I told you all this is to teach you a lesson." Wang Shouzhe said solemnly. "In the future, stay away from such women. Don't provoke them. Now that I think about it, there's nothing major for you to do."

"How about this, work hard and give me more grandchildren. That will be your great achievement."

Wang Zong'an felt as if struck by lightning, utterly disoriented.

He, Wang Zong'an, a great prodigy, was his highest mission in life to propagate the Wang Clan?

Was it easy for him?

……

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