I'm modifying myself into the ultimate demon.

Chapter 140 Suffocation, a momentous decision!!

The former dynasty... Empress!
He is also a top figure in the Jiang family, the leading family among the four great demon-suppressing families of the current dynasty!
Wouldn't that be even more terrifying than Xiaoye?
If it's this amazing while it's alive, what would happen if it turned into a ghost...?
Who would have thought that such a terrifying deity would appear on the edge of a small county called Honghe on the southeastern border of the Great Qian Dynasty!

No wonder the Red Lantern Goddess could turn into a zombie; it turns out this great deity gave her a breath of fresh air.

All the irrationality in my mind began to make sense because of Jiang Hongyue's abnormal identity.

But the more this happened... the more pressure Chen Mo felt!
Upon hearing that his ghost bone originated from Jiang Hongyue, Tang Xianhe lost his composure, even dropping a bag of fish feed into the pond...

If even Tang Xianhe, the lord of the fortress who had lived for ninety years, was like this, let alone Chen Mo himself who was involved in the matter.

He frowned, feeling an inexplicable sense of dread.

asphyxia!

However, Chen Mo was never one to give up or accept his fate. He took a deep breath, suppressed the many distracting thoughts in his mind, and asked, "Please tell me something about Jiang Hongyue, Master Tang."

Tang Xianhe slowly straightened up and strolled along the edge of the huge pond, occasionally looking up at the rising sun in the sky, his thoughts seemingly returning to a distant past.

Chen Mo didn't disturb him, following closely behind Tang Xianhe. Although the sun was warm, Chen Mo felt unusually cold, as if he had fallen into an ice cellar.

After a long silence, Tang Xianhe finally spoke, "That was all a long time ago. I wasn't even born then, so naturally I never saw this magnificent former empress. I only heard about her from my father. About a hundred years ago, this empress, dressed in a magnificent coat, traveled south to visit relatives, passing through Nanzhou and Nanyang Prefecture. At that time, the Tang family and the Shen family were just martial arts families. They were rewarded for welcoming the empress..."

After listening to Tang Xianhe's account, Chen Mo learned about a secret from that time:
Empress Jiang Hongyue traveled south to visit relatives. Because it was a secret trip, no one outside knew about it. Only some high-ranking martial arts families and government officials knew Jiang Hongyue's true identity.

When Jiang Hongyue passed through Nanzhou, she was greeted by the local martial arts families, led by the then governor of Nanzhou. The Red Lantern Lady was just a beggar who had wandered the streets, but Jiang Hongyue happened to see her and kept her in the procession to serve her.

Later, when Jiang Hongyue passed through Nanyang Prefecture, she was received by the prefect, who led several martial arts families, including the Shen family and the Tang family.

Because of their merit in receiving the emperor, Jiang Hongyue rewarded them. It was because of this reward that the Shen family, Tang family fortress, and two other families became the Demon-Suppressing Families.

However, the other two major martial arts families were poorly managed and their younger generations dwindled, gradually declining. Over time, only the Shen and Tang families remained in Nanyang Prefecture as the two major demon-suppressing families.

Hearing this, Chen Mo felt a chill run down his spine.

He never imagined that... Tangjiabao and Shenjia were transformed from ordinary families into demon-suppressing families because they received a reward from Jiang Hongyue.

So, the bloodline that these two families share was given by Jiang Hongyue!

Something felt off to Chen Mo.

After regaining his composure, Chen Mo continued to ask, "Does this Jiang Hongyue possess such supernatural powers? Enough to transform an ordinary aristocratic family into a demon-suppressing family?"

Ha ha.

Tang Xianhe smiled wryly, "During the Tianbao era, the imperial court was at its peak. There weren't so many demons and evil spirits in the world. Ordinary martial arts families were already quite remarkable. At that time, there were only a handful of demon-suppressing families in the entire Great Qian Dynasty. Among them, the Four Great Demon-Suppressing Families dominated the world. And the Jiang family, in particular, held the reins of power. Even the Tianbao Emperor was very wary of them. As the most outstanding member of the younger generation of the Jiang family, Jiang Hongyue was naturally a top-tier demon-suppressing figure. Giving her a small reward would easily create several demon-suppressing families."

Chen Mo was secretly alarmed.

I never imagined the Jiang family was so powerful back then.

Even the Tianbao Emperor was very wary of it.

It is said that emperors valued the balance of power most and believed in the saying, "One should not disturb the sound sleep of others while one is sleeping beside one's bed."

Could it be that the emperor was responsible for Jiang Hongyue's death?
Of course, this matter was too big for Chen Mo to bear, so he only dared to think about it in his heart. He dared not say it aloud.

He rephrased it: "What was the relationship between Emperor Tianbao and Jiang Hongyue at that time?"

Tang Xianhe said, "That was all too long ago, I don't know anything about it. I only heard my father say a few words about how the Red Moon Goddess and Emperor Tianbao were a perfect match, a loving couple, and a model of love that everyone in the world envied. As for the details, I don't know either."

Chen Mo nodded slightly.

After all, it was a matter concerning the Emperor and Empress of the Celestial Empire, and outsiders naturally wouldn't know the inside story.

"So, the Black God we worship in Tangjiabao was also a gift from the Red Moon Goddess?"

Faced with Chen Mo's question, Tang Xianhe hesitated. After all, it involved Tang Family Fort's biggest secret. Although Chen Mo had great potential, Tang Xianhe clearly wasn't planning to tell Chen Mo yet.

Chen Mo noticed Tang Xianhe's hesitation and said, "I was being presumptuous."

Tang Xianhe smiled bitterly, "I don't have many years left to live. There are some things I'll have to let you know sooner or later. The reward given by the Red Moon Goddess wasn't the Black God. Instead, it was a magical artifact given to my father. The appearance of the Black God is related to my father's magical artifact. This is related to the secrets of my Tang Family Fortress. If you become the young master of my Tang Family Fortress in the future, I'll tell you then."

Chen Mo nodded in agreement.

Chen Mo asked about some other details.

For example, what relatives did the Red Moon Goddess visit in the Great Yin Mountain, and were they dead?

Tang Xianhe knew nothing about it.

So Chen Mo didn't ask any more questions.

It seems that Jiang Hongyue's trip to Dayin Mountain to visit relatives was quite a secret. Not many people knew about it. Su Yuqing probably knew, but because it involved that damned ghost story, she didn't tell Chen Mo.

This resulted in a significant gap in the information Chen Mo possessed.

For example... how could someone as capable as Jiang Hongyue become pregnant out of nowhere while visiting relatives in Dayin Mountain?

After becoming pregnant, Jiang Hongyue must have known the child's origins were unknown. Why then did she run back to tell the master (Emperor Tianbao)?
This ultimately angered the Tianbao Emperor, who banished Jiang Hongyue.

That's all.

Jiang Hongyue actually returned to that eerie Yin Mountain to ask the evil god about the origin of the child.

Jiang Hongyue is already so powerful, why would she need to consult the evil god?
There are just too many things in my mind that I can't understand.

As for the Curse of the Other Shore Flower and its return to the human world, Chen Mo didn't ask further, assuming Tang Xianhe was unaware of these matters.

Chen Mo pulled himself out of his thoughts and asked, "Has Lord Tang heard of Su Yuqing?"

Since Jiang Hongyue couldn't figure it out, she decided to start with Su Yuqing and see if she could gain any additional insights.

Tang Xianhe said softly, "When I was young, my father mentioned that Su Yuqing was the eldest princess of the Tianbao era. She accompanied Jiang Hongyue on a trip south to visit relatives. When they passed through Nanyang Prefecture, my father went to greet them. I saw her from afar once, and then I never saw her again. I don't know what happened to them after that."

Chen Mo knew the truth; everything proved that the Red Lantern Goddess and Xiao Ti were right.

"What happened in the court after that?" Chen Mo pondered. Jiang Hongyue was, after all, the empress of the previous dynasty. If she had died, it must have been a major event in the court, and there should be relevant records.

Tang Xianhe shook his head: "I wasn't even born then, and my father never mentioned what happened afterward. The capital is tens of thousands of miles away from here. How could I possibly know what happened? However, when I was young, I heard my father's story and did check some court records, but he didn't mention a word about what happened to Jiang Hongyue afterward."

"Not a word mentioned?"

"Hmm. All I know is that not long after Jiang Hongyue went to visit her family, Emperor Tianbao appointed a new empress surnamed Xiao. Well, with three thousand beauties and concubines in the palace, if one empress had an accident, a replacement could be appointed immediately. It's not a big deal."

Chen Mo nodded and didn't ask any more questions.

After recounting these past events, Tang Xianhe inquired about Chen Mo's ghost bone. Perhaps fearing Chen Mo might overthink things, Tang Xianhe added without hesitation, "You are a gift from heaven to our Tang Family Fortress, a rare and exceptional man. The entire Tang Family Fortress has high expectations for you. If you encounter any difficulties, feel free to tell me. I will do everything I can to help you. After all, the pressure the Shen family has placed on the Tang Family Fortress is immense, and in the future, our Tang Family Fortress may need to rely on you a great deal."

Realizing that the old man was indeed not very cunning, and that he himself had already joined Tang Family Fortress and shared its fate, Chen Mo then told him about the Ghost Bone and the Other Shore Flower Curse.

Tang Xianhe was greatly surprised after hearing this, "Where did you find out all this?"

Chen Mo said, "Back then, when I was dueling with the Red Lantern Goddess, she thought she had the victory in her grasp. She was the one who told me that."

Even Tang Xianhe, an old man over ninety years old, paled and furrowed his brows. "So, Jiang Hongyue really did suffer in the Great Yin Mountain. But she was too ferocious, using all her strength and resentment to cast a curse that severed the path to the underworld. She even tried to find someone who could use the Other Shore Flower Curse to guide her back to life. I'm afraid this former empress has completely become a demon. And a very terrifying one at that. If she returns to the mortal world, Nanyang Prefecture will be doomed."

Chen Mo listened quietly to Tang Xianhe's story and asked, "Does Lord Tang have any solutions?"

Tang Xianhe shook his head: "I have never been to Dayin Mountain. I only knew that there were ferocious ghosts in Dayin Mountain. But I don't know the details. The one who tied the knot must untie it. If we want to find out the specific plans of this lady, we need to go to Dayin Mountain to check it out. But that place is really dangerous. Even Jiang Hongyue, who was so powerful back then, still suffered."

Chen Mo thought it made sense and said, "Jiang Hongyue went to Dayin Mountain twice. The first time was to visit relatives, and the second time was after being driven out of her home by Emperor Tianbao. She then returned to Dayin Mountain to ask the evil god about the origin of that child. This doesn't make sense."

Tang Xianhe said, "You think that even if Jiang Hongyue didn't know the dangers of the Great Yin Mountain before, she must have known after going there once. Why did she still go?"

"Yes."

Tang Xianhe stroked his white beard, pondered for a moment, and then said, "I can't figure out the reason either. Don't panic too much. Jiang Hongyue hasn't come out yet. You should go back to the main force. I'll look for relevant information, and if I find it, I'll have someone call you over."

Chen Mo nodded in agreement, thanked him, and then turned and left.

As Tang Xianhe watched Chen Mo's lonely departing figure, he suddenly recalled his own appearance as a teenager and blurted out, "Xiao Mo."

Chen Mo suddenly stopped and cupped his hands in greeting: "Does Lord Tang have any further instructions?"

Tang Xianhe said, "I know you are facing a lot of pressure, confusion, anxiety, and unease. You are worried about the future... But don't let these things corrupt your Dao heart. At any time, strength is the foundation of your existence. Even if Jiang Hongyue really comes, you should still cultivate diligently and never give up on yourself."

Chen Mo felt that the Lord of Tang's worries were unnecessary, but he couldn't refuse the other's kindness outright, so he cupped his hands and said, "Lord Tang's teachings are right, I will keep them in mind."

Tang Xianhe then waved his hand, signaling Chen Mo to leave.

Afterwards, Tang Xianhe called over a waiter and said, "Go and call Lao Qi. I have something to say to him."

Before long, Tang Binghu arrived at Jingsi Garden and saw Tang Xianhe sitting in the living room brewing tea. He still looked relaxed and leisurely, but there was a hint of melancholy between his brows.

Tang Binghu said, "Father, your brow is furrowed. Did you have a bad conversation with Xiao Mo just now? If Xiao Mo said anything offensive, please don't take it to heart. He's still young. It's normal for him to be a little arrogant. I will definitely teach him properly later. I think Xiao Mo will definitely become a great help to our Tang Family Fortress in the future. He might even be able to raise the banner of our Tang Family Fortress."

Tang Xianhe shook his head: "Although Xiao Mo is young, he is sensible and knows how to behave appropriately. I got along very well with him."

"Why is Father like this?"

Eh.

Tang Xianhe sighed, "I originally thought that heaven had sent down a prodigy to Tang Family Fortress, but I didn't expect that this prodigy would bring disaster upon himself. I haven't had much contact with Xiao Mo, so I'm not sure what to do. That's why I came to ask you, his master."

Is Xiao Mo carrying a curse?

Tang Binghu was also curious, "Please enlighten me, Father."

Tang Xianhe recounted the events in detail, saying, "That's roughly how it went."

hiss!
Tang Binghu gasped, his face turning pale, and large beads of sweat rolled down his forehead.

Chen Mo had been his apprentice for a month or two, but he had never mentioned these things to him. No wonder Chen Mo asked Jiang Hongyue and Su Yuqing's names with a serious expression last night, and said that he would be visiting Lord Tang today.

So that’s it.

Tang Binghu, when he was young, had heard his father mention Jiang Hongyue and Su Yuqing's names in a reminiscing manner, but he hadn't paid much attention. This was the first time he had heard anything about Jiang Hongyue and Su Yuqing.

A strong sense of oppression made Tang Binghu feel suffocated.

After a long while, Tang Binghu finally came to his senses: "Father, do you want to give up on Xiao Mo?"

Tang Xianhe shook his head: "I didn't say that, I was just asking for your opinion. You are the future lord of the fortress, and the lives, honor and disgrace of hundreds of people in my Tang family fortress will all be in your hands."

Tang Binghu pondered for a moment with utmost seriousness, and finally said, "Xiao Mo has the ghost bone from Jiang Hongyue and has also used the Other Shore Flower Curse. It's clear that Jiang Hongyue will sense it sooner or later. If Jiang Hongyue comes out because of this and returns to the mortal world, the entire Nanyang Prefecture will be in danger. Whether our Tang Family Fort abandons Xiao Mo or not, it's an unchangeable outcome. Isn't that right?"

Tang Xianhe murmured, "Yes. Whether we give up on Xiao Mo or not, we can't change the outcome. We can't just kill him, can we?"

Tang Binghu said, "Jiang Hongyue has been laying out her plans in Dayin Mountain for a hundred years. Even if she kills Xiao Mo, she has other methods."

Tang Xianhe said softly, "Tell me your opinion."

Tang Binghu said, "This is what I'm thinking: send someone to the Yunzhongyue Prefecture to report this matter. With such a big incident happening here, the Imperial Demon Suppression Division won't ignore it."

Tang Xianhe nodded slightly, then added, "That's not appropriate. This matter is too big; Yun Zhongyue is not capable of handling it. Find two reliable leaders and send them to the capital."

"Go to the capital? Our Tang family has no roots in the capital and doesn't know anyone there. We can't just go directly to the palace to meet His Majesty, can we?"

Tang Xianhe shook his head: "Jiang Hongyue's death is likely related to palace intrigue. If we report directly to the palace and mistakenly drag ourselves into the palace struggle, how many heads do we have left to lose?"

Tang Binghu wiped the sweat from his forehead. "So, what does Father mean?"

Tang Xianhe said, "Go to the headquarters of the Demon Suppression Division and report to the Chief. I've heard that the Chief is a very good person, someone who cares about the world. Moreover, our Demon Suppression family is under the control of the Demon Suppression Division. Although reporting major events to higher levels is against the rules, it's understandable in urgent situations. More importantly, this will prevent us from getting involved in court intrigues."

After a moment's consideration, Tang Binghu cupped his hands and said, "Father's thinking is indeed thorough. I think Fifth Brother is meticulous and thoughtful in handling matters, while Second Brother is fierce and decisive. It would be appropriate for the two of them to travel to the capital together. What do you think, Father?"

"That's excellent."

"What about Xiao Mo?"

Tang Xianhe, holding a teacup, said after a long while, "Since we can't avoid it no matter what we do, we might as well do our best to cultivate him. If Jiang Hongyue comes out, the Shen family won't get away with it either. If Jiang Hongyue doesn't come out so soon, Tang Family Fort will still have something to look forward to after I leave."

Tang Binghu breathed a sigh of relief: "Father made a wise decision."

"Furthermore, Xiao Mo's matter is of great importance. It's best that you and I keep it to ourselves. If it gets out, it might cause panic in Tangjiabao and create unnecessary disputes. As for the Fifth and Second Princes, I'll write a sealed letter and instruct them to deliver it to the Chief in person. No matter how long it takes, they must deliver the letter personally."

"Yes."

……

Meanwhile, Chen Mo left Jing Si Garden looking dejected and asked a passing disciple of Tang Family Fortress, "Do you know where Tang Peng's mourning hall is located?"

Although the disciple did not recognize Chen Mo, he knew that this person was extraordinary when he saw Chen Mo coming out of Jingsi Garden, and immediately led the way, "Young master, please follow me."

"Thank you."

Chen Mo walked through several corridors and courtyards, finally arriving at a secluded courtyard. White lanterns and white banners were lit inside. Many disciples came to pay their respects, and some disciples who were close to Tang Peng even knelt in the mourning hall, sobbing and shedding tears.

Moved by the scene, Chen Mo's mind also calmed down. He entered the mourning hall alone, went to Tang Peng's coffin, offered incense, and paid his respects.

And silently prayed in his heart: Brother Peng, may you rest in peace. I will send those two troublesome zombies on their way to the underworld and make them apologize to you.

It was already noon when I walked out of the mourning hall, and I happened to see Tang Ziyu and Tang Tongshan walking towards me.

The two were in low spirits and greeted Chen Mo.

Tang Ziyu said, "It's lunchtime. After I pay my respects to the young master, would you please invite Young Master Mo to stay for dinner?"

Now, Tang Ziyu's attitude towards Chen Mo has undergone a complete reversal.

When they were in Honghe County, Tang Ziyu saw Chen Mo as a promising newcomer.

But now, Chen Mo's status within the Green Wolf Gang has risen dramatically, surpassing most of the younger generation in Tangjiabao. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to call him the number one among the younger generation in Tangjiabao. His words naturally carried more respect, but also some hesitation. He carefully considered what he wanted to say before uttering it, afraid of saying anything that might offend Chen Mo.

Chen Mo saw everything and said, "Thank you for your kindness, Miss Ziyu. I have other matters to attend to, perhaps next time."

"Then please do as you please, Young Master Mo."

Tang Ziyu exchanged a few words with Tang Tongshan, then bid farewell and entered the mourning hall, glancing occasionally at Chen Mo's departing figure.

Tang Tongshan sighed, "Young Master Mo's growth rate is simply too abnormal. He has only been in the prefectural city for a little over two months, and he has already reached a level that I dare not imagine. Just now, I felt immense pressure just from making eye contact with Young Master Mo."

Tang Ziyu glared at him. "You're only just realizing this? Even Elder Tang Lei, a Blood Rift level expert, is no match for Young Master Mo. Let alone us Blood Energy level nobodies. Alright, stop looking. Young Master Mo is busy with important matters right now. Let's go see the young leader."

"Ah."

……

After leaving Tangjiabao, Chen Mo did not ride a horse but strolled alone on the street.

Tang Xianhe's words weighed heavily on Chen Mo's heart like an unimaginable mountain, almost suffocating him.

A piece of ancient ghost bone has somehow led to such a huge incident.

If the modification process were reversible, Chen Mo would want to dig out that ghost bone.

Unfortunately, it's irreversible.

Chen Mo also reflected on his past decisions.

I don't feel there's anything to regret. Given the circumstances at the time, choosing to fuse with the ghost bone was undoubtedly the best decision. Blame it on the world; it's just too bizarre.

Since Chen Mo transmigrated here, he feels like he hasn't had many comfortable days.

"Damn, we were all forced into this." "I wonder when that bastard Jiang Hongyue will show up, or if she's already sensed my presence. If this great god were to return to life, it would be truly terrifying. I reckon the entire Nanyang Prefecture would become a ghost town."

"The one who tied the knot must untie it; all the answers lie in the Great Yin Mountain. I have to go to the Great Yin Mountain sooner or later to find out the truth. But before that, I need to hear that ghost story first. I need to figure out how someone as powerful as Jiang Hongyue ended up suffering in the Great Yin Mountain. Only after I understand these things can I prepare to go to the Great Yin Mountain."

"But I'm still too weak..."

As Chen Mo strolled along the street, he listened to the peddlers' shouts and watched the merchants and villagers coming and going, as well as the endless stream of horse-drawn carriages.

The streets, filled with the warmth of everyday life, brought Chen Mo a sense of peace.

I wonder how long this calm will last.

"Peddler, give me two skewers of candied hawthorn." Chen Mo took out some loose silver and bought two skewers of candied hawthorn from the peddler.

This small amount of silver was his monthly allowance from the Green Wolf Gang.

Suddenly I remembered... I seem to owe someone money that I haven't paid back yet?
Upon further reflection...

Xiaoye.

How much money do I owe Xiaoye again?

Five hundred taels?
That doesn't seem right either. We've been eating and using other people's things the whole way... If you really want to calculate it, I'm afraid it's impossible to make a clear figure.

Chen Mo is not one to like owing others anything.

"Round it up to one thousand taels. Next time you see Xiaoye, just give her one thousand taels."

And so, Chen Mo took the candied hawthorns and headed to his home in the prefectural city.

Having been in the prefectural city for so long, Chen Mo hadn't yet visited his family. He hadn't gone before because he was being hunted by the Red Lantern Lady, but now that he had captured her, that threat was gone.

As for Jiang Hongyue, this super expert.

Chen Mo has come to terms with it.

Thinking too much is pointless. If she runs away now... there's nothing I can do. Even with Tang Family Fortress as my backer, there's nothing I can do.

Since we can't prevent it for the time being, then we won't try to prevent it.

I simply opened my mind to living life.

As for telling Tang Xianhe the inside story, Chen Mo had his reasons: First, since Tang Family Fortress intended to cultivate him, he should tell the truth in advance to avoid unpleasantness later. It wasn't worth ruining his cultivation path over such a trivial matter.

Secondly, Tangjiabao is, after all, a top family in Nanyang Prefecture, and the highest resource that Chen Mo can currently access, so it should be used properly.

Thirdly, Tang Xianhe might abandon him out of fear of being implicated. If that happens, there's nothing that can be done. Everything has risks and costs. As for whether Tang Xianhe would kill him to eliminate future troubles, Chen Mo felt that the other party wouldn't be so foolish.

Would killing myself prevent Jiang Hongyue from escaping?
Who dares to draw that conclusion?
Even assuming Tang Xianhe is truly like that, Chen Mo still has the mirror. This is a trump card that no one knows about. All he needs to do is let the mirror come into contact with Tang Xianhe, and Tang Xianhe can go inside and live with the ghost bride.

Clearing his mind of distractions, Chen Mo followed the path provided by Juan'er and arrived at the end of Chang Le Street in the west of the city. There he saw a huge mansion with a plaque hanging at the entrance that read "Chen Mansion".

A girl in a pink silk dress was sweeping dust from the doorway with a broom, while a young man was carrying a bucket of water and wiping the door with a rag.

"Ma Tie, wipe it clean. The Third Young Master and Xiao Yu'er will be back soon. Make sure it's spotless, lest the Master think we're slacking off," the girl in the pink dress instructed as she swept the floor.

The young man wiping the door said, "I understand."

"Qiu Lan".

Chen Mo called out.

brush!
The girl in the pink dress, who was sweeping the floor, heard the long-lost voice and was greatly shocked. She suddenly looked up and saw the familiar bald head. Her face immediately lit up with a bright smile, "Second Young Master!!"

Upon hearing this, Ma Tie, who was wiping the door, quickly put down the burlap he was carrying, turned around, and exclaimed, "Second Young Master! It really is the Second Young Master!"

Upon seeing old friends, Chen Mo was overjoyed and, unusually, smiled, saying, "It's me. How are you all?"

Qiulan smiled and said, "Everything's fine. Master returned the indenture to me as the Second Young Master had instructed. He even betrothed me to Ma Tie. Ma Tie, come here quickly, let's thank the Second Young Master together."

Qiu Lan hurriedly called Ma Tie over, took Ma Tie's hand, and hastily knelt down and kowtowed to Chen Mo.

"Thank you, Second Young Master, for removing my slave status and making me a person again. You even helped me get married. I will always remember your kindness." Qiulan thanked you with tears in her eyes. She had been sold into slavery as a child, a slave without even a registered household, and thought she would be a servant for the rest of her life.

But because of a single word from the second young master, they were freed from slavery and became commoners. Now they are considered citizens of the Great Qian Dynasty. Although they need to pay taxes, they also enjoy corresponding rights, such as the right to do some work and run a business. Their children can also go to school, take the imperial examinations, and learn martial arts at the military academy.

In Qiulan's mind, this meant that her life had been completely turned around.

"Ma Tie also thanks the Second Young Master."

"Haha. We're all family, no need to be so polite. Get up, both of you." Chen Mo bent down to help the two up, and said with a smile, "I just saw you two working together, you seemed very affectionate. Have you had a wedding?"

Qiu Lan blushed. "Master did agree to hold a wedding for me, but I don't want to trouble him. Ma Tie and I aren't masters, so we don't need a wedding. We're lucky if we can just make do. We're only doing this thanks to the Second Young Master."

Chen Mo said, "How can that be? Qiu Lan is my maid. In a few days, I will buy you a mansion and give you a grand wedding."

Qiu Lan blushed even more. "Qiu Lan knows that the Second Young Master is good to me, but there's really no need to go to such trouble."

"It's settled then. By the way, are my parents well?" Chen Mo didn't give Qiu Lan a chance to refuse. He was now bald, with a fierce and menacing appearance, exuding immense power. He made the decision with just a few words. Qiu Lan and Ma Tie didn't dare to object.

Qiulan quickly led Chen Mo the way, "Master and Madam are both doing well. They've acquired some property and shops here, and even opened up trade routes, doing business reselling porcelain and tea. Their business is even bigger than it was in Honghe County."

Chen Mo wasn't surprised by this. It was true that Chen Yinfu wasn't good at martial arts, but he was indeed a master at business. As long as he had capital, he could succeed anywhere. Moreover, the population of the prefectural city exceeded one million, so the market was huge. It was only a matter of time before Chen Yinfu could expand his business even further.

This is not...

Chen Mo looked around at the grand and imposing mansions, which were much larger than the Chen Mansion in Honghe County.

The maids and guards in the manor are dressed even better now. Passing by the martial arts training ground, I saw several guards of inner-school martial arts level. They must have been hired by my father.

With money, everything at home got better.

The guards were practicing martial arts in the training ground when Wei Heng saw Chen Mo and excitedly exclaimed, "Second Young Master!"

The other guards also turned to look, and several of the newly arrived inner guards muttered to themselves: "This is the second young master of the Chen family? He doesn't look like much. Not handsome and bald, his appearance is really unpleasant." But since they had taken money from the Chen family, they all came up to greet him.

"Greetings, Second Young Master."

Ah!
Chen Mo nodded, greeted Wei Heng and Liu Jiang, and then said, "You guys continue your extra training, I'm going to check on my parents."

A newly arrived inner guard approached and said, "Second Young Master, I often hear Wei Heng say that you are a powerful and unparalleled master. Could you perhaps give us a few pointers?"

The other two internal martial arts masters also chimed in.

Chen Mo was taken aback.
Is this a sign that they're not convinced by me?
"Very well. I'll show you a little skill. Bring me your sword." The leading martial arts master handed over a large broadsword.

Chen Mo took the knife, examined it, and played with it for a while. "Not bad."

The internal martial arts master said with great pride, "This is a fine knife that has been with me for ten years. During that time, I killed bandits and several internal martial arts masters. It is made of fine steel and iron, and ordinary internal martial arts masters cannot even scratch it."

Chen Mo asked, "What's your name?"

"My name is Xu Zhijie, and I am a sixth-level martial artist."

"Go back and get a different knife."

"What do you mean, Second Young Master?" Xu Zhijie was stunned for a moment, then trembled with fear.

Chen Mo simply raised his hand and brushed it across the blade, which immediately turned a deep red-hot, then melted into molten iron and dripped onto the ground. The hilt, meanwhile, was burned to ash and scattered all over the ground.

The guards were all dumbfounded, and they didn't recover until Chen Mo had walked far away.

Is this still a human being?

Xu Zhijie, who had initially been somewhat resentful, now felt a chill run down his spine. He had originally planned to show off his skills in front of the second young master and elevate his own status. He couldn't let Wei Heng, Liu Jiang, Zhou Liang, and the others keep suppressing him.

I didn't expect... this second young master is really too perverted.

At this moment, I dared not have any other thoughts.

Wei Heng snorted: "I told you long ago that the Second Young Master was a peerless master. You just wouldn't believe me. And now he's nowhere to be seen?"

Xu Zhijie then came to his senses and said with a forced smile, "Yes, yes, Brother Wei is right."

……

When Chen Mo arrived at the central courtyard, he saw Haitang cleaning at the main entrance.

"Begonia."

Hearing someone call her name, Haitang turned around. At first, she thought she was seeing things, so she rubbed her eyes and realized it was the second young master. She quickly put down her broom and greeted him, "Second young master, you've finally come. These days, the master and madam have been talking about you every day."

How have you been lately?

"They're doing well. Once they arrived in the prefectural city, although the master and madam hired many new people, they still cherished the old ones."

After exchanging a few pleasantries, Chen Mo followed Haitang through the central courtyard gate and met his long-lost parents.

"Father, mother."

"Erlang!!" Lin Yulan put down her teacup and rushed over to hug Chen Mo. "Where have you been all these days? I was so worried about you."

Chen Yinfu also wanted to come up and hug her, but Lin Yulan beat him to it, so he could only stand to the side and say with a smile, "It's good that you're back safe and sound. Quickly, let Xiao Mo sit down. Haitang, bring some tea."

Lin Yulan added, "I made some fresh osmanthus cakes in the kitchen. Remember to bring them, Haitang. They're all Erlang's favorite flavors."

"Understood, Madam." Haitang hurriedly left.

Chen Mo sipped his tea, ate his mother's osmanthus cake, and chatted with his family. He learned about Chen Yinfu's business plans recently. However, Lin Yulan was most concerned about Chen Mo's experiences over the past period.

Chen Mo then picked out the good points, automatically filtering out all the dangers and difficulties.

After hearing Chen Mo's story, everyone was greatly surprised.

Lin Yulan asked, "Is the Red Lantern Goddess dead?"

Chen Mo nodded: "Yeah, I killed him."

hiss!
The whole family gasped, their gazes towards Chen Mo changing. Zhang Ru, the second aunt who had rushed over, overheard this and stood at the door, stunned and pale.

Chen Mo spotted the second aunt and asked Haitang to invite her in for tea.

Chen Yinfu was stunned for a long time before he came to his senses: "You killed the Red Lantern Goddess? Really?"

They still found it unbelievable.

After all, they had spent their entire lives in Honghe County worshipping the Red Lantern Goddess. Naturally, they regarded her as a deity. Now, suddenly, they heard… that the Red Lantern Goddess they had worshipped for half their lives had been beaten to death by their own son! ??
As Chen Mo chatted with his family, he felt a long-lost warmth and comfort in his heart, and laughed, "Of course it's true. I joined Tang Family Fortress and became the apprentice of the future fortress lord. My master taught me his skills. Killing a Red Lantern Lady... is not a difficult task."

Seeing how casually Chen Mo spoke, everyone was even more astonished. They thought to themselves: This Erlang is truly extraordinary, incredibly monstrous.

Zhang Ru said, "Second Young Master is truly a young hero with limitless potential. I've been here for several months and have heard of the Tang Family Fortress and the Shen Family everywhere. These two families are behemoths. Even the Prefect has to treat them with utmost respect. I never imagined that Second Young Master would join the Tang Family Fortress and even become the apprentice of the future Fortress Master. Master, our Chen family is about to prosper."

Chen Yinfu nodded with a smile and praised Chen Mo profusely.

It wasn't long before everyone gradually got used to it.

Chen Yinfu said, "I've known for a long time that Xiao Mo's path is different from ours, and the world Xiao Mo will encounter in the future will also be different from ours. However, people's hearts are all the same. The higher you stand, the more people will be jealous of you. When you go out into the world, you still have to be careful. Although it is necessary to have a sharp weapon, you don't have to make enemies everywhere."

Chen Mo said, "Father is right. I will remember that."

Not long after, two boys came from outside.

"What a lively day it is today... Second Brother!" Chen Wu, who had just returned from martial arts practice, strode into the room and was greatly surprised to see Chen Mo sitting in the chief seat. He couldn't help but feel overjoyed and excited.

A little girl in a red silk skirt came up behind her.

"What? Second Brother is back? Everyone move aside, let me see if Second Brother brought me a gift." Xiaoyuer, carrying a single-shoulder backpack, swaggered in and threw herself into Chen Mo's arms. "Second Brother, Xiaoyuer missed you so much. I thought you were doing so well outside that you didn't want Xiaoyuer anymore."

"What nonsense are you talking about? You are the apple of your brother's eye."

Did you bring me a gift?

"for you."

"Wow, candied hawthorns!" Little Fish saw two skewers of candied hawthorns, immediately jumped down, took a bite, and didn't forget to tiptoe and kiss Chen Mo on the cheek. "Second Brother is still the best to me."

It made Chen Mo's face sticky.

Not long after, Zhou Liang, who was picking up the children, came in. When he saw Chen Mo again, he clearly felt that Chen Mo was much stronger than before and had a great presence. So he cupped his hands and said, "It's good that the Second Young Master is alright."

"Uncle Zhou, thank you for your hard work these past few months."

"Ahem, Second Young Master, don't be so formal. This is what I should do."

After exchanging pleasantries, Lin Yulan led Chen Mo to the east courtyard to settle down.

When Chen Mo arrived at the entrance of the East Courtyard, he noticed that the furnishings and decorations were the same as those in Honghe County, and the layout inside was also identical. Qiu Lan and Ma Tie lived there, and they greeted Chen Mo with a bow.

Qiulan said, "Madam and Master know that the Second Young Master is busy outside, so they had the servants renovate the East Courtyard exactly like the one in Honghe County. That way, when the Second Young Master comes back, he can adapt quickly and won't feel unfamiliar. Ma Tie and I usually live here and are in charge of cleaning."

Lin Yulan took Chen Mo's hand and led him into the main room: "Second Master, do you like it?"

Chen Mo turned his head and saw the extra white hairs at Lin Yulan's temples, and his heart warmed slightly. "I like it. How could I not like the courtyard that my mother arranged?"

Lin Yulan smiled broadly, "I'm glad you like it. Come back and stay here whenever you have time. Master often says that you've become successful now and that the world you're exposed to is different from ours. But I think that no matter how high my Erlang goes or how accomplished he becomes, he will always be his mother's precious child and will never forget his own mother."

Hearing these simple words, Chen Mo was deeply moved: "Mother is right. Father is just worrying unnecessarily."

"Haha, that's right. I don't know what that old man is thinking all day. Our Erlang is the best. How could he forget his family?" Lin Yulan said happily, then instructed Qiulan to take good care of Chen Mo before hurriedly leaving. "I'm going to the kitchen to cook some of Erlang's favorite dishes so the family can have a reunion dinner later."

"it is good."

Chen Mo agreed, but felt a pang of sadness as he watched his mother leave in a hurry.

During this time, Chen Mo had been busy with his own affairs and had neglected his family. Even though they hadn't seen each other for several months, when he returned home, the family was still happily together.

Some bonds cannot be severed.

"Second Young Master, shall I boil some water for you to take a bath?"

"Just boil the water, I can take a bath myself. Otherwise, Ma Tie will be uneasy."

Ma Tie: “…”

The second young master really knows me.

After taking a bath and changing into a new robe, Chen Mo went to the central courtyard and had a meal with his family. The meal was filled with lively chatter, yet the atmosphere was warm and welcoming.

Chen Mo took a couple of bites and put the food down, looking at his family, the moonlight outside, and feeling the warmth of the place.

Suddenly, I felt a pang of sadness and a deep sense of reluctance.

No one knew what Chen Mo's plans were.

Only he knows.

Today's visit to my family might be the last.

Because Chen Mo had already made up his mind: after seeing his family, he would go to Juan'er and start preparing to turn himself into a zombie.

Turning into a zombie, I wonder what it will be like. I also wonder if I'll ever be able to sit with my family like today, enjoying the flowers and the moon, laughing and joking around the table...

(End of this chapter)