Promise!

Chapter 214, Li Lu

The next morning, a steady stream of people came to see him off in front of the Zhuang family mansion.

Yesterday afternoon, Zhuang Jin informed his trusted subordinates that Chen Yun, Mu Qing, Shen Xujun, and Yu Qingjun had all returned to their parents' homes. The news of the family leaving the prefectural city was no longer a secret, and those with connections naturally knew about it. However, all of them assumed that the family was departing today.

Zhuang Jin left last night for this reason. If we had to wait until this morning, it would have been a chaotic mess of polite formalities. Everyone would have been tired, and so would we. Why bother?

Of course, Shen Xianhong and Mu Yuantu knew that they had left last night, as they were keeping an eye on Zhuang Jin's movements, but the others did not.

For example, the Fourth Young Master Shen Xujing arrived at dawn today, when the grass was just damp with dew. He stood outside the door, performing the disciple's salute, and waited without calling out to announce his arrival, for fear of disturbing Zhuang Jin and the others' rest. He performed the "standing at the gate in the dew" act to show his sincerity.

"Fourth brother!"

Before long, the Eighth Prince Shen Xuchen also came over, greeted Shen Xujing, and took a deep look at his Fourth Brother. He understood that his Fourth Brother's actions were not only to gain favor with Zhuang Jin, but also to show others and thus highlight his 'virtuous reputation'.

After a round of brotherly courtesy, he sneered inwardly, knowing that his fourth brother was just like that: when he needed you, he was humble and kind; but if he really sat on the position of head of the family and gained power, and no longer needed you, or even if you became a threat, then he would be a completely different person, like a traitor who would discard you after you've served your purpose.

Afterwards, the others arrived one after another, all waiting quietly outside the door. The Fourth Young Master Shen Xujing set an example by not informing others and disturbing Zhuang Jin's sleep, and the Eighth Young Master Shen Xuchen did the same. Even if the others cursed in their hearts, they had to follow suit.

That's fine, being punished by standing is fine too, but the key question is where you stand? The Fourth Young Master Shen Xujing and the Eighth Young Master Shen Xuchen are standing on the left and right respectively. Are you going to stand on the left or the right?
Those who have already clearly chosen a side are fine; they can just stand behind each other. But this is tough for those who are still neutral and haven't chosen a side. No one has yet stood in the middle to form a new team. Even if someone wants to be the first to stand out, they have to consider whether they are big enough to be considered!
If they could speak out now, they would all want to unite and launch an appeal: We are not refusing to stand up, but standing up slowly, deliberately, and strategically, with a rhythmic approach. Those who are prepared should stand up first, and those whose conditions are ripe should stand up first. The early stand-up will drive the later stand-up. We should also stand up according to the specific circumstances, not blindly, but precisely, efficiently, and strategically... and flexibly, taking into account special circumstances.

It wasn't until Ping Yongfeng arrived, pondered for a moment, and stood in the middle that many people breathed a sigh of relief.

Lin Hong, Bi Kai, Wu Hao, and others naturally followed suit and stood in the middle.

Zhuang Jin had actually informed them yesterday afternoon that they didn't need to send anyone off. They knew Zhuang Jin's personality and didn't want to go through any trouble, but they still had to come.

Otherwise, the subordinates would speculate whether their boss and Zhuang Jin had a problem, whether they had become estranged, and people would be filled with anxiety... This farewell was more for show, especially now that half of the northern part of the city had been regained and the market was in turmoil.

It can only be said that in life, one has no choice but to engage in many forms of formalism.

There are also some relatives, both near and far, who have unintentionally benefited from Zhuang Jin's rise to power. If they were explicitly not allowed to come, it would be interpreted as 'estrangement,' and they would be in tears.

Others, such as those who offer sacrifices or to young masters, also have to come. It's like giving gifts; if everyone else gives gifts and you don't, Lord Zhuang might not remember who came, but he'll most likely remember who didn't.

'That's really interesting!'

Shen Xuqing also came over, bringing Ni Ying with him. After seeing this scene, he sighed inwardly, greeted his brothers and acquaintances, and stood in the middle.

—Now, because of Zhuang Jin and Chen Yun, Ni Ying's status has been elevated again in the Ninth Prince's eyes, becoming a 'concubine', a position far higher than that of an ordinary concubine, only lower than that of the principal wife. She is also often taken to attend events, especially by Zhuang Jin's side. Although the principal wife is jealous, she is a smart woman and has never said anything about it.

Early that morning, everyone who had some connection with Zhuang Jin's family and felt they had the face and right to come and say goodbye arrived one after another, crowding the outside. Those who came later even stretched out into the alley.

It can only be said that when you reach a certain level, even a simple farewell can be turned into a grand spectacle, showcasing the myriad aspects of human nature.

When it was almost 7 a.m., the gatekeeper opened the door with a yawn and saw a dense crowd of people standing outside, waiting quietly. When they saw him, all their eyes turned to him. This terrifying scene made him almost forget to exhale his yawn. He clutched his chest and nearly fell backward.

Fourth Young Master Shen Xujing stepped forward to help him up and said, "We are here to bid farewell to the Supreme Elder, and we do not wish to disturb him, so we will wait here."

"So that's it!"

The gatekeeper wiped the cold sweat from his forehead, took a couple of breaths, and looked at the people who were standing there as if they were being punished. He said helplessly, "Please go back, everyone. The master and his ladies left by boat last night."

"Ah... the Supreme Elder is truly living a carefree life!"

"It seems they didn't want to trouble us; they have put in a lot of effort!"

"Last time, Brother Zhuang was gone for two years. I wonder when he will be back this time?"

……

These people sighed, but their feet seemed rooted to the spot, waiting for those of higher status to go first.

This is also a tacit understanding that is generally accepted. If you do not follow it and act differently, a magnanimous person might laugh and say, "This is a fool who doesn't know the rules." But a petty person might think that you are looking down on someone, which would offend them and cause them to hold a grudge. They might trip you up at any time.

This is why Zhuang Jin and his group left early last night, not wanting to go through the motions with this group—it was too boring. It also shows that with Zhuang Jin's current strength and status, he has the confidence to break all these rules and regulations and suppress all dissent.

Just like today's cancellation, although Zhuang Jin did not do it intentionally, it is fine now that it's over. In fact, these people have to say that Zhuang Jin did a good job of canceling, and praise Zhuang Jin for being "truly carefree".

If it were anyone else, or even the young master of the Shen family, who dared to do this, just watch, their reputation for arrogance and prestige would spread like wildfire!
The fourth young master, Shen Xujing, and the eighth young master, Shen Xuchen, went ahead and arrived at the alley entrance, where Shen Xianhong's personal steward came to find them.

"Fourth Young Master, Eighth Young Master, the Master invites you!"

Shen Xujing and Shen Xuchen exchanged a glance and followed.

The others, seeing this scene, remained expressionless, chatting and laughing as usual, but their thoughts were all different.

……

The Shen family's inner courtyard, a secret room.

"Jing'er, what are your thoughts on the Supreme Elder and the Mu family? If you were the head of the family, what are your plans for the future?"

Shen Xianhong first let his fourth son, Shen Xujing, in, and looked him in the eye, saying, "It's just the two of us here, father and son. There's no need to hide anything. You can speak your mind."

Fourth Young Master Shen Xujing knew this was a test for him, so he dared not be negligent. He spoke the words he had kept hidden in his heart for a long time, and solemnly said: "Since the destruction of the Medicine King Gang, my Shen family has obtained its broken mid-grade Qingyuan Pot, and has occupied the north, east, and south of the city, as well as the seven counties under its jurisdiction. In addition to my father, we also have a Supreme Elder. With two Xiantian in one family, it seems like we are burning brightly and enjoying great success, but in reality, we are already facing many crises!"

Shen Xianhong nodded slightly, seemingly in agreement, and glanced at his fourth son who was looking at him: "Today is for you to speak freely, so please continue."

"Yes, father."

Shen Xujing said with a gloomy face: "Although Fifth Sister married the Supreme Elder as a secondary wife, the Supreme Elder is not surnamed Shen and is not of our clan. His heart must be different! Even now, I'm afraid Father can hardly persuade the Supreme Elder. The Supreme Elder claims to be a member of the Shen family, but in reality, he is not of one mind... This person has broken through to the Innate Realm and is already uncontrollable. Moreover, he has formed his own faction within our Shen family. When our Shen family weakens, he will turn the tables on us in an instant."

"The Mu family is also a major threat. Having obtained the low-grade Qingyuan Pot and the western part of the city, they already have the foundation of an innate family. As can be seen from what happened in the northern part of the city two days ago, they have their eyes on my Shen family's broken mid-grade Qingyuan Pot and the fertile land."

"This is truly a case of internal and external troubles. If I were the head of the family, I would be patient and appease them, be close to them and treat them with respect, lull the Supreme Elder into complacency, use Zhuang to control Mu, provoke conflict... and ultimately reap the benefits!" Shen Xujing's plan can be summarized into a sixteen-character strategy: First, pacify the Mu family, then eliminate Zhuang Jin, and only my Shen family will reign supreme in Yunnan!

"Ugh!"

After hearing Shen Xujing's words, Shen Xianhong let out a sigh.

The plan was well-conceived, but if one is not careful, it could lead to catastrophic disaster. Even he himself would not be able to implement it with a 100% certainty, let alone his fourth son.
Shen Xianhong admitted: This fourth son is quite cunning, but can his so-called forbearance and pretense really fool that old fox Mu Yuantu? Can they really fool Zhuang Jin, whom even he can't see through now? Even if they can fool him for a while, can they last?

His experience over the years tells him: never underestimate anyone, especially those who have risen to a certain position. For example, Mu Yuantu, who seems like an honest man with thick eyebrows and big eyes, or Zhuang Jin, who rose from the bottom. Such people are not ordinary.

Such cunning will only backfire!

Shen Xianhong could already foresee that if Shen Xujing really became the head of the Shen family, and he actually implemented it, the more he did, the more mistakes he would make, and in the end, the Shen family would be doomed.

Swish!
He flashed to Shen Xujing's side, subdued him, and used his innate true energy to rush into his meridians: "I am your father, but I am also the head of the Shen family. Jing'er, in this life... you should just be a wealthy and idle person!"

"father!"

Shen Xujing felt the damage to his meridians and stared wide-eyed in disbelief.

He has now reached the Seventh Meridian Breathing Realm, making him the closest among the young masters to the Innate Realm. He carries the hopes of the Shen family on his shoulders, yet his father has done this, severing his own hope for the Innate Realm. How could this be? How dare he?
But what did I say wrong?
Looking back, he didn't think he had done anything wrong, and cried out, "Father, heaven and earth can bear witness, the sun and moon can bear witness, my whole heart and soul were for the sake of our Shen family!"

Shen Xianhong shook his head slightly and said no more. If he didn't choose this son, even if the next generation failed to be cultivated and did not reach the Innate Realm, the Shen family might still slowly decline with Zhuang Jin's checks and balances. However, if he chose Shen Xujing to become the head of the Shen family, the Shen family would most likely suffer a swift defeat.

"You should not go out until the next patriarch breaks through to the Innate Realm. I will have someone deliver your meals every day."

……

"The Mu family has already gained power. The theme of fighting without breaking apart will be the competition for a long time to come... When Prefect Mu steps down, our Shen family, the Mu family, and the prefectural government will form a three-way standoff."

"As for Brother Zhuang, he is like a dragon swimming in the sea or a phoenix perching on a parasol tree. The prefectural city is too small. In my opinion, he will leave before the agreed ten-year period is up."

Faced with the same question, this was the answer from Shen Xuchen, the Eighth Prince.

"good!"

Shen Xianhong nodded slightly and looked at Shen Xuchen: "Chen'er, are you ready to become the next head of the family?"

"Dad, this..."

Shen Xuchen was shocked and understood the meaning of these words. He realized that he had already been chosen. He couldn't help but think of Zhuang Jin and suspected that it was Zhuang Jin's doing.

Indeed, this answer, along with his good relationship with Zhuang Jin, convinced Shen Xianhong to make up his mind.

All we can say is: sow good seeds and reap good fruit.

"Don't rush into a decision. Preparing for the position of family head means enjoying resources and benefits, but also bearing a heavy responsibility. If you take on this responsibility, the Shen family's resources will be concentrated on you, allowing you to break through the Fetal Breathing Realm and reach the Eight Meridians Realm as quickly as possible, and then you will begin special training..."

Shen Xianhong paused here: "It was an extremely cruel training. Every day, physical strength was squeezed out, and the last bit of strength was used up. Then, the ten thousand books inside had to be read and memorized... Pain, torment, tedium, boredom, and madness would drive people almost crazy, in order to forge an iron will... until the special training was completed, the secret medicine was taken, and the innate breakthrough was achieved."

The Wind Valley Thunder Ape's beast core was just one of the Shen family's channels—the Shen family had connections in the state capital for two or three hundred years. Whenever beast cores or beast beads appeared, as long as they knew about them and had the opportunity, they would definitely acquire them, hoarding them like hamsters. The accumulated resources were unimaginable to ordinary people.

The harvest of the Wind Valley Thunder Ape's beast core will add to the Shen family's foundation, but that doesn't mean that without this beast core, the Shen family can't even concoct a single secret medicine... Of course, if they are unlucky and fail repeatedly, all the resources they have accumulated now may be exhausted in one generation.

However, now that we have the broken, mid-grade Qingyuan teapot, we have another option.

Shen Xuchen wasn't surprised by the secret medicine; his attention was focused on the word 'special training,' and he asked, "Father, is this how all the prospective heads of the family have done?"

"Yes, except for your eldest brother. Due to special circumstances, he didn't have time to complete the special training, and ultimately failed."

Shen Xianhong looked at Shen Xuchen with an extremely calm expression: "The balance of heaven and earth is absolute. Every drink and every bite must be endured. How can one enjoy the supreme position of the innate without suffering such hardships?"

"What I can tell you is that in the five generations of my Shen family, nineteen prospective family heads have received training. Of them, five went insane, six committed suicide, and only eight succeeded... Of those eight who successfully passed the special training, only four ultimately achieved the Innate Realm... In other words, even if you pass the special training, you may still fall at the threshold of the three Innate Realm levels."

If Zhuang Jin were here and heard these words, he would surely sigh: "When Heaven is about to entrust a great task to someone, it will first test his mind, strain his muscles and bones, starve his body, leave him destitute, and thwart his actions, so as to strengthen his resolve and increase his abilities..." This is precisely how the saying is used to forcibly temper one's character.

These powerful and influential families, passed down through generations, have indeed become extraordinary. Their ruthlessness is something that ordinary people can hardly imagine.

"So, Chen'er..."

Shen Xianhong looked into Shen Xuchen's eyes: "I'll ask you one last time, are you sure you want to accept this?"

“Once you start, you can’t give up. If you can’t take it, I’ll watch you die.” He spoke these extremely cold words in a calm tone.

"Ha ha!"

Upon hearing this, Shen Xuchen suddenly laughed: "A true man is born between heaven and earth, and should live a magnificent life. Either die or break free from the cocoon and become a butterfly, taking a step into the innate realm."

"Yes, Father, I confirm!"

……

Half a day later, after explaining various matters, Shen Xuchen arrived at a secret room. Looking at the open stone door, it was hollow and resembled the mouth of a beast ready to devour someone.

'Brother Zhuang, I may never be able to catch up with you in my lifetime, but I absolutely refuse to allow myself to lose even the courage to try!'

He took a deep breath and strode in.

Rumble!
The stone gate closed.

……

(End of this chapter)