The Great Martial Saint!

Chapter 767 Thunderous Blade Technique, Daoist Companion!

Shen Huiqing's public housing was extremely large, exquisitely and luxuriously decorated, and its layout exuded a solemn and dignified atmosphere.

As the highest authority representing the Xuanling garrison of Canglong Prefecture, the people who come and go every day are no ordinary figures. Such a grand scale and atmosphere are naturally incomparable to any other place.

Seeing that it was getting light and the situation had been roughly figured out, Chen Ping'an did not ask any further questions.

Shen Huiqing waited for a while, and seeing that Chen Ping'an had no further instructions, she prepared to summon the special envoy from Beishan Prefecture.

Just then, a gentle female voice rang out from outside the door.

"Master Shen."

When a sound came from outside the door, Chen Ping'an didn't react much, just looked down at something.

Shen Huiqing glanced at Chen Ping'an, and seeing that he had no objections, she said something.

"come in."

"Yes, my lord."

The person outside the door responded respectfully, then pushed open the door to the public housing and quietly walked in.

The newcomer was a woman, dressed in the standard dress of the Zhenfu Division, with a composed face, and looked to be no more than thirty years old.

As Shen Huiqing's trusted confidante, Lin Qing'e was always strict with herself, ensuring that her daily routine was flawless. As usual, she prepared to report on the day's itinerary.

She had been working here for a long time and was extremely familiar with similar procedures, so she wouldn't make any mistakes.

However, when she pushed open the door to the public housing and saw the scene inside, she was clearly taken aback.

A man sat openly on the large chair in Lord Shen's office.

这 是
She was stunned, caught off guard for a moment.

Why is there a man in Lord Shen's official residence? And why is he sitting in the large chair that represents his authority?

what happened?

Lin Qing'e's mind raced, her thoughts swirling like lightning, but no matter how much she pondered, it remained a matter on her mind. After a slight pause, she proceeded to inquire after her as usual.

Shen Huiqing stood beside the ceremonial desk, her expression calm, and smiled as she responded with a few words. Then she instructed, "Qing'e, there's no need to report the schedule yet. Go and invite Lord Xu and Lord Ma from Beishan Prefecture over first."

"Yes, sir." Lin Qing'e suppressed her doubts and replied respectfully.

Inside the public housing, Chen Ping'an sat high on a large chair, while Shen Huiqing, in a swaying long dress, stood to the side.

She didn't dare look any longer and quickly left the public housing.

Before leaving, he quietly closed the door of the public housing.

"This is Lin Qing'e, the head clerk of the yamen, in charge of the daily clerical work of the garrison."

Shen Huiqing stood to the side, smiling as she introduced Chen Ping'an to her.

After spending the night together, the two had grown much closer. Shen Huiqing didn't use any awkward words; sometimes, appropriate terms of address are better for getting along.

Using overtly respectful titles can actually be a sign of distance, especially in private settings.

The relationship between the top leader and the second-in-command is not that complicated; either they restrain each other, or it is a one-sided situation.

In private, it's not a bad thing to be appropriately close.

Of course, in public, unless there is a power struggle, the second-in-command should give the first-in-command plenty of face.

Although Shen Huiqing was originally a rogue cultivator, he had been involved in the Zhenfu Division for many years and naturally understood such matters.

Chen Pingan neither agreed nor disagreed, but simply responded with a sound of agreement.

He looked at the case files and official documents in front of him, his mind wandering to other things.

His original plan was to familiarize himself with official duties in the evening and then go to the Gu family's residence early this morning. However, the special envoy from Beishan Prefecture and the internal review meeting disrupted his plans, requiring him to readjust them.

He went to Xuanling to take up his post as the top official in charge of the Canglong forces stationed there. With his power, he could easily reschedule. Whether it was postponed, delayed, or something else, it could all be done according to his wishes.

However, since he was new to the city and had just taken office, his actions, while not a major offense, would at least damage his prestige.

Although others may not say it, they can't be sure what they're thinking. He has just taken office and should take control of the situation and consolidate power as quickly as possible.

It's best to avoid these unnecessary troubles if possible. Otherwise, even if we can make up for it later, it will still take more effort. It's better to get it right now.

As for adjusting arrangements and delaying the schedule, it's not too late to do so after he has fully established his authority and laid a solid foundation for the overall situation.

While pondering, Chen Ping'an glanced at Shen Huiqing beside him.

Seeing Chen Ping'an looking at her, Shen Huiqing lowered her eyes slightly, a smile on her face, to indicate that she was listening.

Chen Ping'an didn't speak, but just glanced at her before looking away.

As the deputy garrison commander of Xuanling, Shen Huiqing has held absolute power for many years. In terms of both combat strength and reputation, she is in no way inferior to Nie Yunlong, the former garrison commander of Long'an.

Her status as a female Grandmaster even gave her a reputation that was slightly greater than Nie Yunlong's.

It's simply a pipe dream to think that such a person could be recruited overnight.

However, Chen Ping'an did manage to do it.

In one night, Shen Huiqing was completely convinced, understood priorities, and willingly relinquished her power.

The factors that enable this level of achievement are extremely complex and involve many aspects.

It has deterrence, legitimacy, talent, and so on.

Of course, a significant factor is Chen Ping'an's recent improvement of the Seven Absolute Divine Skill, which he created by incorporating the Blood Restriction of Ten Thousand Demons and pushing the boundaries of tradition. This resulted in the creation of the latest technique, the Seven Absolute Forbidden Technique.

Among the Seven Forbidden Techniques, there is the exquisite technique of the Blood Restriction of Ten Thousand Demons, which can spiritually influence the mind. Its manifestation is that in battle, it can create illusions to bewitch the enemy's mind.

Such methods are naturally useless against opponents of the same level. Even against those whose strength is slightly weaker, they have little effect.

but.
Chen Ping'an's strength is not on the same level as Shen Huiqing's. Under the Seven Deadly Restrictions, Shen Huiqing naturally submitted.

Of course, this submission does not mean acknowledging Him as master and willingly offering everything.

To achieve that level, the Seven Forbidden Techniques, or even Chen Ping'an's current strength, is clearly far from sufficient.

Even her submission wasn't solely due to the effects of her martial arts techniques. After all, Shen Huiqing was no ordinary person; even among martial arts grandmasters, she was formidable. She possessed a resolute character and a clear, unfettered mind.

Such a person cannot be controlled by any unorthodox or bewitching techniques. If it were that simple, the higher-ups would not have entrusted her with such sole power and the defense of Xuanling.

Chen Ping'an was able to achieve this level not only because of the absolute suppression of his cultivation, but also because of his noble position as the Xuanling Garrison Commander. This appointment was personally made by the Northern Border Garrison Command and announced by the Canglong Prefecture Garrison Command.

With this identity, Chen Ping'an naturally gained control of the situation.

Whether Shen Huiqing is willing to admit it or not, the matter is clear. Even if she is unwilling in her heart, she subconsciously submits to this rule.

Suppression of realm, enhancement of secret techniques, legitimacy, display of strength, and more.
Chen Ping'an's extraordinary talent was a major reason why Shen Huiqing submitted to him. Especially his display of strength made Shen Huiqing realize that Chen Ping'an's talent far exceeded her expectations. His future prospects were boundless, like a vast starry sea, almost unbelievable.

In the journey of life, encountering such a boss would surely be an exciting experience.

If she could do her best to assist him wholeheartedly, it would be an extremely good opportunity and choice for her.

Sometimes, that's just how people are. When you're not as good as someone else, you might feel jealous or envious, but subconsciously, you're often more willing to submit to someone who's better than you.

Especially when this person holds the moral high ground and possesses complete legitimacy.

However, if the person who submits is far weaker than you in every way, then even if you have a righteous cause, they will still be dissatisfied and resistant to this matter.

Strength, talent, potential, status, and opportunity
Numerous emotions intertwined, constantly deepening and gradually being stirred by the Seven Forbidden Techniques, leading to the form Chen Ping'an desired.

It is the combination of these factors that has led to the situation we see today.

However, even with so many factors combined, Shen Huiqing only devoted herself wholeheartedly to assisting him within the bounds of public duty and social order, rather than blurring the lines between public and private matters and willingly sacrificing everything for him.

The former are loyal and dutiful subordinates, while the latter are death-defying warriors.

The difficulty levels of the two are on completely different levels.

The former can still be considered as loyalty, while the latter is completely about sacrificing one's life to pledge allegiance to a master.

Duty, loyalty, and faith in the Lord
Each step is a new level, with each level increasing in difficulty.

With his current methods, he is far from being able to achieve that level.

Perhaps, through years of interaction and the subtle influence of the Seven Deadly Spells, it might be possible to bring Shen Huiqing to a level of loyalty. Beyond fulfilling my duties, I could help him with some private matters.

But if it comes to the point of recognizing a master, that's complete nonsense.

Chen Ping'an smiled, slowly put down the dossier in his hand, and leaned back slightly. As he moved, his breath flowed, and a faint fragrance wafted from him—the scent of Shen Huiqing, exuding an indescribable mature charm.

At the level of recognizing the Lord, it is entirely equivalent to rising to the level of mind control. It is not forced or unwilling, but rather a willing and joyful acceptance of it.

Complete mastery at the spiritual level—such unorthodox methods may exist in the world. But to apply them to a grandmaster is as difficult as ascending to heaven.

Let alone a grandmaster of martial arts, even a master, with their martial will solidified and their temperament indescribable, is rendered useless by ordinary methods of control. Even those like the Blood Forbidden Demons only coerce people into doing it by threatening their lives. The process is unwilling and unknowing, and they may even make subtle moves. If one is not careful, there is a risk of backlash.

However, such mind control, which can control the mind of a martial arts grandmaster and subdue him completely, may exist in the world, but it is definitely a truly secret and precious technique.

As for controlling the martial arts celestial beings, well...
Chen Ping'an's gaze narrowed slightly.

Such a method of control, even if it exists, probably only exists in legends. Its level and scope are completely beyond Chen Ping'an's current level of understanding.

Given his current situation, if the Seven Deadly Forbidden Techniques can be continuously improved and truly reach the level of a True Skill Scroll, his martial arts realm can advance another step, and he might even be able to grasp the mind of a Grandmaster of Martial Arts.

But that's in the future, not now.

Chen Ping'an's thoughts were in turmoil, and he inadvertently thought of the state of the dynasty, and how although the Great Qian Dynasty was prosperous, it was no longer what it used to be.

I wonder if such secret techniques, if still in existence, are still relevant?
My thoughts are a jumbled mess, and it's impossible to express them all in just a few words.

Just as Chen Ping'an was thinking this, the head of the public office, Shen Huiqing's confidant, also brought the special envoy from Beishan Prefecture.

The Beishan Prefecture Garrison Command is renowned and is the most well-equipped and strongest prefecture garrison command in the Bicang region, second only to Bicang Prefecture.

Within its borders, a section of the Black Nether Mountain Range passes through, and in the peripheral areas, demonic beasts frequently appear, requiring constant extermination. Beyond the treacherous mountain ranges, formidable passes and fortified cities are also established to safeguard the interests of the region.

Adjacent to the Black Nether Mountains, it is a sacred place in the eyes of various independent cultivators, a hub for trade and adventure. It is frequented not only by cultivators from within the Azure Cang region, but also by those from beyond, such as those under the Dan Alliance and the Hundred Refinements Pavilion of the Forging Alliance. As for the North Sea Merchant Alliance, well-versed in commerce, it is naturally present and extremely active within the region.

The Thunderous Blade Technique that Chen Ping'an exchanged for was no ordinary item. Although its artistic conception was slightly incomplete, its value was still extremely high.

The Beishan Prefecture Garrison Command is responsible for escorting the convoy, with several people in charge and supervising each other to prevent any theft.

Lord Xu and Lord Ma, who came today, are in charge of this matter and are both martial arts grandmasters.

"Lord Shen, you summoned us here today, is there anything you wish to instruct us on?"

As soon as the two entered, they saw Chen Ping'an seated high in the main seat. They already had a vague idea of ​​Chen Ping'an's identity, but they ignored him and instead looked at Shen Huiqing beside him. Their tone was quite impatient.

They had traveled tens of thousands of miles to Xuanling, enduring a long and arduous journey for the purpose of escorting the person they were supposed to meet. They had assumed the person they were supposed to exchange for would already be waiting, but to their surprise, they had come to nothing.

Upon further inquiry, it was discovered that the other party had not even taken up their post yet. Such behavior inevitably aroused dissatisfaction.

However, Chen Ping'an, the valiant swordsman, is renowned, exceptionally talented, and possesses unparalleled potential; he is not someone to be trifled with. It's highly unlikely they would directly retaliate.

But a little eye drops can still do the trick.

As grandmasters of martial arts, they naturally possessed arrogance, and the two were not insignificant figures in the Northern Mountain Prefecture's Garrison. Given Mang Dao's actions, how could he not express his dissatisfaction?
Lin Qing'e stood respectfully to the side, somewhat bewildered. At this moment, she had a vague idea of ​​the identity of the person in the main seat. However, there were still a few questions she hadn't figured out, leaving her feeling confused and uncertain.

Late at night, a man sits high, standing at attention.
As she looked at the scene of the man sitting high in front of her and the woman standing at attention, several terms kept swirling in her mind.

When she left her official residence last night, she didn't see any men. But today, she saw the man enter the room and sit in the main seat.

The adult showed no dissatisfaction whatsoever; on the contrary, he stood aside with a smile, seemingly content to play a supporting role.

Even if the other party's identity was as she had guessed, such a situation was inevitable.

She knew all too well how capable Lord Shen was, having served him for so long. Even if the other party had a righteous cause, Lord Shen would never be so "submissive".

How the two sides will set their stance remains to be seen and requires further negotiation and competition.

Having heard about the appointment beforehand, they didn't show it on the surface, but there was a lot of discussion and debate about it behind the scenes.

The change of the top leader is a far-reaching event for anyone, no less than experiencing an earthquake.

The generational shift and changing landscape are of paramount importance to them, the backbone of the organization.

If one can foresee the direction and understand the sequence of events in advance, it's tantamount to gaining an edge over everyone else in this storm. Placing bets in advance and attaching oneself to others is undoubtedly a way to seize the initiative.

They make many inferences about future events, weigh the pros and cons, and analyze and speculate.

Some say Lord Shen might not relinquish power so easily, while others say the newly appointed garrison commander is no ordinary figure; appointed personally by the Northern Garrison Command, even if Lord Shen is unwilling, he probably can't reverse the tide. However, Lord Shen has been here for many years, and his influence is deeply entrenched; this power transfer will likely last for a long time.

The process will inevitably involve a fierce battle. They should observe for the time being, consider carefully, and avoid becoming innocent casualties, turning into cannon fodder in the struggle between the two.

Some voices suggested that Lord Shen might consider the bigger picture and proceed with a steady handover. However, this view was not widely supported; most people were simply observing the situation.

As a confidante and close associate of Lord Shen, she believed she had a fairly accurate grasp of his attitude. She leaned towards the last option.

But looking at it today, both guesses seem a bit off. To be precise, they are completely wrong, with significant deviations.

In today's situation, there's no question of gradual progress or steady handover. Judging from the current circumstances, Lord Shen has essentially surrendered!
Oh no, "descended" isn't quite right; it should be "wholeheartedly submitted and willingly submitted."

Lin Qing'e kept her head down, not daring to look too closely at the scene, lest she show any unusual expression. At this moment, her thoughts were even more complicated, with a multitude of pieces of information causing her to indulge in a series of wild speculations.

From last night to today, all in all, it's only been one night.

Such a huge deviation occurred in just one night.

What exactly happened that night?
Could it be that there's some hidden story?
Her thoughts raced as she recalled the fleeting glimpse she had just caught of the man's excessively youthful appearance and his refined, elegant demeanor, and she couldn't help but let her imagination run wild.

"Lord Xu, Lord Ma," Shen Huiqing said with a smile, offering a few words of comfort: "Both of you have come from Beishan Prefecture, traveling tens of thousands of miles. You must be exhausted from your journey. I am too busy to offer you any advice."

Shen Huiqing possessed a mature and elegant demeanor, and her words were full of sincerity. In the current situation, her gentle words of comfort were even more touching.

As a result, the expressions of the two people also softened considerably, no longer as rigid as before.

As a female Grandmaster, Shen Huiqing already possessed unique advantages. Furthermore, in terms of status and influence alone, Shen Huiqing was superior to the other two. Her humble attitude and gentle words of comfort were deeply appreciated by the two.

Seeing that the atmosphere was warming up, Shen Huiqing formally introduced Chen Ping'an's identity to the two of them.

"My lords, this is Chief Chen, the newly appointed garrison commander of Xuanling, and also Huiqing's..." As she spoke, Shen Huiqing's sleeves fluttered lightly, like waves on water, revealing a section of her fair wrist and jade arm.

"Directly subordinate to the superior."

Shen Huiqing has a delicate and graceful appearance, but her brows reveal a mature charm, like a ripe peach. Her swaying white sleeves are like butterfly wings dancing with flowers, exuding a subtle fragrance that tickles the heart.

The two dared not look too closely, fearing they might fall into some trap. Shen Huiqing was no ordinary person; she had been in charge for so many years without ever making a mistake.

However, they were surprised by Shen Huiqing's attitude towards Chen Ping'an.

How could this be?

His words were flattering, without the slightest hint of struggle. His position and authority were clearly and proactively stated.

this.
Shouldn't it?

The two looked at each other, both seeing the strangeness and astonishment in each other's eyes.

Regardless of their surprise, it was clear that no one would tell them the answer at the moment.

"My lords, it's a pleasure to meet you both. I am honored to meet you."

Chen Ping'an smiled, stood up, and bowed respectfully.

When Shen Huiqing introduced him, he noticed that the other party's words did not emphasize his talent and ability, but rather focused on describing his status. This situation was naturally intended to reinforce his image as a person in a superior position, thereby creating momentum for him.

While emphasizing innate talent is a good thing, excessive discussion can make people feel that this person is ultimately just a young person. No matter how high their status, it's inevitable that doubts will arise.

Is he really capable of handling this?
However, if it emphasizes status and power, then it's completely different. This is a deepening of the symbolism, constantly reinforcing the image of the superior to make the symbols of the two sides equal.

"I've long heard of your hidden talent, and seeing you today, you truly are extraordinary." The two offered a few perfunctory compliments.

Although Chen Ping'an was no ordinary man, it was clear that he couldn't govern them. They had traveled thousands of miles to escort him, only to be met with a cold shoulder upon arriving in Xuanling. No one would be too happy about that.

Their current attitude stems largely from their concern for Chen Ping'an's position and Shen Huiqing's lack of understanding of the situation. This makes it difficult for them to see through Chen Ping'an for the time being.

How did he manage to create such a situation so soon after taking office, and earn such high praise from Shen Huiqing?

Or perhaps it was influenced by the Northern Border Garrison?
Although they weren't very familiar with Shen Huiqing, her deeds were well-known, and putting themselves in her shoes, they realized that if they were in Shen Huiqing's position, they wouldn't be so willing to hand over their power.

He went from being the undisputed leader to being the second-in-command who was constrained by his superiors.

Even if we were to pay up, it wouldn't be now. Let's settle our differences through a legal duel first.

In the current situation, it's already good enough if they don't sabotage each other, let alone praise and support them. This is no ordinary phenomenon.

This situation truly baffled them.

Seeing the two of them like this, Chen Ping'an didn't mind at all and chatted with them for a few minutes with a warm smile.

"My lords, you have gone through a long journey and have done your best for my sake. I am truly grateful and hope that you will not find this small token of my appreciation offensive."

Chen Ping'an looked calm and smiled serenely as he took out two items from his robes.

With a slight flick of his sleeve, the two objects floated gently, one for each person, and appeared before them.

"Lord Chen, you are too kind. It is my duty and I don't deserve any hardship."

As they spoke, their expressions improved considerably. Their words also lacked the previous tension.

"It's just a small token of my appreciation. If you two gentlemen don't accept it, I'm afraid I'll feel bad about it," Chen Ping'an said with a soft smile.

After several refusals, the two finally accepted Chen Ping'an's offer.

After accepting the gift, the atmosphere in the room naturally became harmonious, no longer as cold as before.

This trip was for official business, and I already have merits recorded in the register. Now, to receive additional benefits is naturally an unexpected joy.

Given Chen Ping'an's behavior, they naturally couldn't maintain their composure.

During the conversation, Chen Ping'an explained the previous incident, saying that he was indeed delayed by something, which was his fault, and he hoped that the two of them would not take offense.

Given the atmosphere, the two of them naturally said that it was no surprise and they could understand.

The atmosphere was wonderful, and the group chatted as if they had known each other for a long time.

Such remarks naturally involve a degree of skill. In a typical relationship, if there is an expression of apology, one should first offer a gift, then apologize. This approach ensures the sentiment is conveyed and often resolves the issue.

If the relationship between the two parties is very close, then the process should be reversed: first, sincerely express apologies, and then, once the atmosphere has calmed down, present the gift.

This process usually manages to calm the other person down, and even if it doesn't completely resolve the issue, it can alleviate it considerably.

As the group chatted, Shen Huiqing remained mostly silent. She would occasionally glance at Chen Ping'an, lost in thought. Chen Ping'an, on the other hand, was gentle and spoke softly, without any airs or arrogance typical of a prodigy.

It is better to dissolve enemies than to make enemies.

Although he is not afraid of wind and rain, it would be good if he could turn hostility into friendship through some means.

As in the previous situation, if he were to adopt a passive stance, it would only further strain the relationship between the two sides. Although he could easily disregard them, even if they were at odds, they would still have to give him the items due to their duties.

But that would only create trouble. Holding onto one's own martial prowess is a state of arrogance.

Such an attitude is not his usual way of dealing with people.

Ultimately, it was indeed his fault for delaying his arrival at his post, causing several people to remain here for an extended period.

Even if I feel guilty, those small sacrifices are still worthwhile.

Of course, the situation has changed, and he has a clear conscience. Such a scene may not necessarily end this way.

Where does the "Mang" in "Mang Dao" come from? Perhaps those who experienced it in the past already know.

Lin Qing'e stood in the public room, her reverie subsiding slightly.

Listening to everyone's conversation, she thought that the new Xuanling Garrison Commander might be easy to get along with.

His words were gentle, like a spring breeze and fine rain; his manners were polite and refined, like jade. Judging from the scene today, this newly appointed garrison commander did not seem like a key official stationed in Xuanling, but rather a handsome young man who had stepped out of a painting.

The young master is gentle and refined, with a graceful and elegant appearance.

However, Lin Qing'e only thought about this. Those who could rise to such heights step by step wouldn't be as easy to get along with as they appeared. However...
Lin Qing'e paused for a moment, then suddenly thought of the new garrison commander, who was born into a family of geniuses and was actually not that old. Perhaps, that was just his nature.
Lin Qing'e's thoughts were scattered, but gradually came together. At this moment, she recalled the new garrison commander, a rising star of the modern era, whose reputation was widespread.

Chen Ping'an, a hidden dragon and a fierce swordsman!
Chen Ping'an had no idea what Lin Qing'e was thinking. And even if he did know, he wouldn't care.

Um.
Not really, perhaps he would prefer the phrase "a gentleman as fine as jade".

His conversation with the two men went quite smoothly, and this attempt to sever ties wasn't entirely without merit. From them, he learned about some current events and hot topics in Beishan Prefecture.

Like the previous "First in the Storm" event, Hua Ruyue appeared in Beishan Prefecture, Xiongcheng Pass, which is one such example.

"It's a pity we weren't at the Great Pass that day, and thus missed the chance to witness the brilliance of the Moon Shadow Divine Arrow." Both spoke with considerable regret about this.

A female grandmaster, unparalleled in the world, wielding the Moon Shadow Divine Arrow, her beauty as radiant as the moon, is said to be so captivating that even celestial beings would be enchanted by her.

As fellow grandmasters of martial arts, they would naturally want to witness the splendor of the Moon Shadow Divine Arrow if given the chance. Her name was renowned throughout the land, known as Hua Ruyue, on the Wind and Cloud Ranking. But very few had actually seen her in person.

If we could see it, that would be a fortunate thing.

"I heard that on that day, at Beishan Pass, within the majestic city, more than a dozen celestial beings came together to welcome them, attracting countless onlookers." The two spoke with great conviction, but Chen Ping'an did not entirely believe them.

Hua Ruyue, is she really that popular?

Moon Shadow Divine Arrow, however extraordinary, is ultimately just a martial arts grandmaster. Even with exceptional combat power, he is only on par with celestial beings, at most surpassing them.

Even with all the prestige, it shouldn't be necessary.
However, as they talked, Chen Ping'an gradually came to his senses.

Although Hua Ruyue is a Grandmaster, her fame is widespread, making her a legendary figure. For most people, being able to meet her is a stroke of good fortune. Even for a Grandmaster of martial arts, being able to actually meet her is something to boast about.

If the Grandmaster thinks this way, then the thoughts of the celestial beings are probably not much better.

The saying "the celestial beings" refers to those who look down upon the world and watch the world rise and fall. This is true, but it depends on the circumstances.

They act this way towards people or things that are too far removed from their own level, but when it comes to their own interests or things that are close to their own level, they naturally act differently.

Although Hua Ruyue is a Grandmaster, she is a legendary figure, possessing combat strength that surpasses even ordinary Celestials. Based on this calculation, aside from her lifespan being shorter than that of a Martial Celestial, Hua Ruyue can be considered a Martial Celestial.

Moreover, she is not just an ordinary martial arts celestial being. With her talent, if she could truly ascend to the celestial level one day, her combat power would likely increase exponentially.

Such figures are highly sought after even among celestial beings.

In addition, Hua Ruyue was also a woman, a woman of exceptional beauty and talent.

Female Grandmasters are rare enough, let alone a Celestial Queen.

That would make it even rarer.

On the path of cultivation, the choice of a partner is often a case of the man being stronger than the woman.

With a few exceptions, most Daoist partners of Martial Dao Celestials are only at the Grandmaster level. The occasional exceptions are mostly pseudo-Celestials.

To have a Daoist partner at the Celestial level is beyond the imagination of ordinary Celestials. Even if one reaches the second Celestial realm, the same applies if one lacks sufficient charm.

Only when one reaches the third realm of Heaven and Man, specifically the Hidden Radiance Realm, does the dual cultivation partnership of a Heavenly Man Queen become the standard. However, this is not absolute, and some unexpected situations can still occur.

However, in a simple sense, an ordinary martial arts celestial being clearly has neither the opportunity nor the qualification to have a celestial female ruler as his dual cultivation partner. Unless it is an extremely rare case, where the two are childhood sweethearts, or have experienced some fortuitous encounter or danger, and developed feelings for each other.

Most celestial female rulers either seek out higher-level cultivators or, heartbroken by love, become despondent and begin keeping male concubines. Of course, some with unique cultivation methods find lower-level cultivators as their "furnaces" to benefit themselves.

The situations are varied and numerous.

In short, a Celestial Female Sovereign who has not yet found a Daoist partner stands at the very top of the mate selection chain among martial celestial beings. Even if she once had a Daoist partner who perished in the past, she is still at the top of the hierarchy of contempt.

If a Daoist partner falls, as a dual cultivation partner, one should be able to inherit the partner's mantle. In such a case, the Heavenly Queen, as the widow, would naturally have an extremely wealthy fortune.

This will likely attract many people from all walks of life.

At the level of a martial arts master, whether or not one is a widow is actually secondary. A celestial body is not an ordinary body; if one is determined and willing to pay the price, it can be made completely flawless.

Compared to the physical body, it is the source of the soul that is difficult to conceal. When the soul and spirit intertwine, and the body and spirit unite, a tacit understanding naturally arises.

However, such union would never be undertaken by those who are not kindred spirits and compatible partners.

After all, this matter involves the source of the soul and the foundation of cultivation, so everyone is extremely cautious.

Even among Daoist partners, one must be cautious and discreet, let alone completely open up and allow anyone to do as they please.

Of course, this is a common thread; both sides are wary of each other, fearing they might be plotted against. Even if they don't intend to kill, it's hard to guarantee they don't have other motives. Some secret elixirs for the soul are difficult to discern, and their slow, insidious effects could become a source of future harm.

Finding a soulmate, someone with whom you share a deep and abiding love, is incredibly difficult. Even at the level of a martial arts master, this remains true.

Having become a martial arts master, there are few things in the world that are unattainable, and this matter is one of them.

Therefore, many martial arts masters would rather find a female grandmaster who is dependent on them than a celestial queen who is scheming against and wary of each other.

The former has complete control over both body and mind, providing a powerful backer, while the latter requires mutual vigilance, utmost respect, and careful interaction. The experience involved is self-evident.

Such a mentality also applies to the Celestial Queen. If they were not mutually attracted and had a deep emotional foundation, she would naturally not be willing to find a Daoist partner of equal standing as her lifelong companion.

Without the influence of external forces or circumstances, and solely based on one's own desires, rather than living such a tiring life, it would be better to choose solitude, cultivate one's spiritual path, find a few close friends, and thus pass the rest of one's life. Or, one could indulge in lust and be kept as a male concubine.

Or perhaps it's better to attach oneself to the strong, even if it's undesirable, than to be on guard every day.

Due to various factors, it is extremely difficult for ordinary martial arts masters to find a Daoist partner of the same level.

Therefore, many celestial beings will take a different approach, befriending those with potential in advance and making investments. If they become celestial beings in the future, whether they receive gifts in return or go further and form a Daoist partnership, there are many things they can accomplish.

Of course, in such matters, the choice of perspective is extremely important. If one is not careful, then all the effort will be wasted.

If one entrusts the wrong person, even after achieving the highest level of martial arts prowess, one may still face the same situation.

After all, while there are causes and effects to overcome inner demons, everyone's temperament and standards differ, making it difficult to summarize in a single sentence.

Finding a Daoist partner is difficult, but finding one at the same Daoist realm is even more difficult.

Listening to their conversation, Chen Ping'an gradually gained an understanding.

No wonder there are so many single women and men in their late twenties and early thirties. Apart from family-arranged marriages and other factors such as background and social status, if they had a choice, it would be really hard to choose.

The words are a bit convoluted, but that seems to be the truth.

Arranged marriages within families, influenced by power dynamics, were unavoidable and didn't require personal choice; the family had made the decision long ago. But when it came time to make the choice, there was already anticipation for the future.

The higher one's level of attainment, the more pronounced this becomes.

In her youth, she single-mindedly pursued the path of cultivation. As her realm improved and her horizons broadened, the man who was once her perfect match could no longer keep up with her pace.

The higher one's realm of understanding, the more one yearns for authenticity, and the more one desires.

But how can such a longing be satisfied so easily?
If they can't satisfy each other, how can they go any further, let alone become Daoist partners?

The road ahead is long, and time is long. Through countless experiences, that sense of urgency has long been lost. If no suitable match is found, I would rather spend the rest of my life like this.

If there's a need, one can indulge in unrestrained passion; why insist on a romantic relationship and invite unhappiness?

"Mutual affection and entrustment of life and death"—these eight simple words are incredibly difficult to fulfill.

Speaking of this, the two of them were quite melancholy, and there was a hint of wistfulness in their eyes.

Shen Huiqing stood to the side without saying much, but seemed to be moved as well.

Chen Pingan spoke a few gentle words and then chatted about other topics with a smile.

In a moment of reflection, the image of the Purple-Eyed Demon Lord from years past came to mind.

Everyone says that finding a soulmate is difficult, and finding someone who is truly compatible is even harder, but how come it's a completely different story for him?
How many fairy-like couples, how many soulmates, how many poignant and romantic tales have been told?

Not to mention the distant past, even in the early years when they were still small and their influence was not yet established, their complicated relationship with the Tianluo Sect was the envy of many.

They are both martial arts masters, yet they struggle to find a partner of similar cultivation. He, on the other hand, a mere grandmaster, has won the favor of the Celestial Queen. And it's not some condescending affection, but genuine, utmost tenderness, granting her every wish.

If the Purple-Eyed Demon Lord had been willing back then, he could have easily become the Daoist partner of that Celestial Queen.

What others can only dream of, the Purple-Eyed Demon Lord is within reach.

That's why they're called the chosen ones of the times.

Of course, most of these stories are just rumors circulating, and Chen Ping'an has not been able to verify the facts.

The events of that year should be well-documented by the top powers of various factions. If Chen Ping'an needs to understand them, there should be evidence to support his claims.

After all, the Purple-Eyed Demon Lord perished more than seven hundred years ago, and the tender romance of those years is now only a little over a thousand years, less than two thousand years old.

The lifespan of a martial arts master is a thousand years. For top-tier forces, that's only the span of two or three generations of masters. From a truly high-level perspective, the distance isn't that far.

It is said that the Heavenly Queen of the Tianluo Sect still exists in the world. As for what happened back then, perhaps only those who were there know the truth.

Chen Ping'an of the "Tianluo Sect" had a change in his gaze and thoughts: "Little Tianluo."

Amidst a jumble of thoughts, Chen Ping'an chatted with the others for quite a while.

Whether they truly felt an instant connection or were intentionally trying to become acquainted, the two were in high spirits and chatted about many anecdotes and current events.

Chen Ping'an spoke gently and kindly, and he gained quite a bit from it.

However, even the most joyous occasions must eventually come to an end. Especially since Chen Ping'an had just taken office and still had a lot of official duties to familiarize himself with.

The group had come to escort the inheritance of the sword technique, the Mad Thunder Sword Technique. Now that they had met Chen Ping'an, they naturally wanted to hand it over in person.

The two were initially hesitant, since this item was exchanged by Chen Ping'an, and was somewhat of a personal secret. It wouldn't be appropriate to do it in front of Shen Huiqing.

After this conversation, they did seem to be considering Chen Ping'an's best interests. Although they didn't say it explicitly, they implied that.

Chen Pingan chuckled and said that there was no need to take it to heart.

Lord Shen is no outsider, so you can proceed with the handover with peace of mind.

The Thunderous Blade Technique was something he openly acquired, so he naturally didn't intend to use it as a trump card. It was something he openly cultivated, serving as a strategic deterrent to demonstrate his apparent strength.

It was bound to be made public sooner or later, so it's not a big deal that Shen Huiqing knows about it now.

Even if he wanted to conceal it, he would do so by focusing on his cultivation level, rather than the cultivation technique itself.

Chen Ping'an's words were unintentional on the part of the speaker, but the listener took them to heart.

Lin Qing'e bowed respectfully, lowering her eyes to minimize her presence. She listened intently to the words around her, her mind racing.

"Aren't we outsiders?"

At that moment, she seemed to understand something.

She lowered her head even further, as if afraid that people would know that she already knew about this terrible thing.

Furthermore, considering the rarity of finding a true soulmate and mutual affection, it becomes an even more difficult proposition.

Everything makes sense now.

In front of Shen Huiqing, Chen Ping'an formally handed over the sword inheritance he had exchanged, the Mad Thunder Sword Technique, to the two of them.

The process was strictly controlled, with the two people supervising each other and Chen Ping'an personally verifying the transaction. Only when everything was confirmed to be correct could the handover be considered successful.

The Thunderous Blade Technique possesses the force of a raging wind and the fury of thunder; its blade techniques are expansive, swift, and fierce.

It is the most supreme divine skill, and has truly reached the realm of the True Skill Scroll.

Especially the last secret technique, which has touched upon the true meaning of swordsmanship, and in terms of power alone, it has completely reached the category of a true martial arts scroll.

However, activating this secret technique comes at a heavy price and is subject to many restrictions, making it inferior to a true martial arts scroll.

Looking at the blue jade book in front of him, Chen Ping'an's face showed a hint of joy.

After several months, another skill has finally been added.

This Thunderous Blade Technique, while inheriting its essence, is slightly incomplete. However, now is clearly not the time to comprehend and study it, so Chen Ping'an put away the inheritance jade scroll for the time being.

With the transaction completed, the two officially took their leave.

"Lord Chen, the transaction went smoothly and you have lived up to our expectations. We will now take our leave."

As they spoke, the two bowed to Shen Huiqing.

Shen Huiqing returned the greeting, and Chen Ping'an smiled and saw her off.

"My lords, you have worked hard. I am new to this post and have many things to attend to. I have neglected you both. I will surely enjoy a drink with you when we meet again."

"No problem, no problem," the two said with smiles.

Although there were some misunderstandings earlier, now that the misunderstandings have been cleared up and things have even progressed further, it can be said that the trip was worthwhile.

"Lord Chen, the situation in Xuanling is complicated. Please take care. We will meet again at Beishan in the future, and we will drink and talk about our many stories together."

Before parting, the two exchanged a heartfelt and intimate remark.

Upon hearing this, Chen Ping'an became solemn and bowed in farewell.

"Lord Chen, please don't see us off. We'll take our leave now." The two men bowed and then departed.

As a trusted confidante, Lin Qing'e naturally saw him off as he left the public quarters.

For a moment, only Chen Ping'an and Shen Huiqing remained in the public housing.

Chen Ping'an sat back in the main seat, and in his thoughts, he thought of the previous handover. The two men's gazes lingered on his waist for a moment.

Chen Pingan looked down at his waist and chuckled softly.

A knife and a sword were worn on one side of the waist.

Shen Huiqing, standing to the side, had clearly noticed Chen Ping'an's gaze. Following his gaze, she saw a sword and a saber; the saber's scabbard was silver-white, dazzling to the eye. The blade's scabbard was jet black, a somber black.

She also found it somewhat strange that Chen Ping'an was wearing both a sword and a saber. She hadn't asked before because the timing wasn't right, but now that the atmosphere was perfect, she took the opportunity to speak.

Sometimes, when the opportunity arises, learning about your boss isn't a bad thing. If done properly, it can even improve the relationship between you and your boss.

"Sir, your swordsmanship is truly magnificent..." A hint of surprise appeared in Shen Huiqing's almond-shaped eyes at just the right moment, perfectly natural: "Sir, are you perhaps also skilled in swordsmanship?"

"I've only learned a few moves, and I'm not very proficient at them yet," Chen Ping'an said with a smile, speaking truthfully. "However, I have always been extremely interested in swordsmanship."

Having grown closer through previous exchanges, Chen Ping'an no longer refers to himself as "this envoy" in private.

"Sir, you truly have a wide range of interests and broad knowledge."

Shen Huiqing spoke with a smile, her almond-shaped eyes sparkling.

She didn't pay much attention to Chen Ping'an's earlier words. Mang Dao was known for his swordsmanship, and given his age, how could he possibly have the energy to master swordsmanship? Learning a few moves would be enough.

However, in the midst of her conversation, she thought of Chen Ping'an's fiancée, the proud daughter of the Gu family, who practiced swordsmanship and was a female swordswoman.

The adults are so interested, it must be because of that proud daughter of the Gu family.

Otherwise, with his renowned reputation and brilliant talent in swordsmanship, why would he be interested in the way of the sword?

The sword technique we just exchanged is the best proof of that.

It's likely that he cherishes his wife and, during their courtship, tends to favor her preferences.

Upon realizing this, a hint of admiration appeared in Shen Huiqing's almond-shaped eyes.

With such talent and exceptional abilities, the gentleman has already reached such a high position at such a young age. Under such circumstances, his willingness to marry into the Gu family clearly indicates that it is not merely a bargaining chip, but rather a genuine expression of love and care for the Gu family's daughter.

Otherwise, given Mang Dao's current power, he wouldn't necessarily be tied to the Gu family. If he wanted to, groups like Hengshan Sect and Wenxin Sword Pavilion would likely be willing to offer him marriage alliances with contemporary prodigies.

Even a powerful family like the Prince of Bicang's mansion would likely crave a prodigy like you. If you could win them over, even the prince's direct descendants would probably do so without hesitation.

Even the most favored young princess, if Mang Dao were to have the intention, might break the rules and be married off to someone else.

"That Gu family's daughter is really lucky. Even with a marriage of convenience, she can still find such a loving husband," Shen Huiqing couldn't help but sigh.

There was no suffocating web woven in the name of love. This unintentional display of cherishing and caring is undoubtedly true love.

She was never so lucky when she was young. If she had met someone like that back then, she wouldn't be all alone now.

Shen Huiqing smiled gently.

For a moment, Shen Huiqing's expression was a little strange, but now her smile has led Chen Ping'an to misunderstand.

What? Is it strange to carry a sword?

Since it didn't mention practicing swordsmanship, I guess I can only carry a sword.

What's wrong with carrying a sword?
Besides...
My wife gave it to me, so I have to carry it with me every day, right?

There was no need to explain anything, but in his mind, Chen Ping'an recalled Gu Qingcheng's words: "I only wish your heart were like mine, so that our love would not be in vain."

A few images flashed through his mind, making him feel a little guilty. As if possessed, he finally offered an explanation.

“Lord Shen, you may not know this, but this sword was a gift from my wife before she entered my marriage. It carries my longing and I have worn it ever since, never forgetting my love for her.”

Upon hearing this, Shen Huiqing's eyes brightened and shone.

"Sure enough."

(End of this chapter)