4 Intermission Two

Blue Wind Empire, at the Imperial Capital, is situated in a grand audience hall within a secluded palace ground.

Seated upon a golden throne was an elderly man with a well-groomed white mustache and beard. His long, white hair was neatly arranged in a circular shape, held in place by a Purple Hairpin crafted from a rare Purple Veined Divine Crystal. This precious hairpin had been bestowed upon the Blue Wind Emperor as a symbol of recognition from the esteemed Frozen Cloud Immortal Palace, acknowledging his just rule and noble character. Apart from its ornamental value, the hairpin also served as an Emperor Profound Accessory, providing protection against diseases and bolstering his vitality in his advanced age.

Thanks to the intervention of the Frozen Fairies two decades ago, although the Blue Wind Empire remained the weakest among the seven nations, it claimed the top position in ensuring the safety and security of its citizens, especially the fairer sex. This transformation occurred when the emperor's older brother, born of humble origins, plotted a coup to overthrow their father, aided by the Xiao Sect and the Burning Heaven Clan. However, their grand coup d'e•tat was thwarted by the direct intervention of the holy ground of the Blue Wind Empire, the Frozen Cloud Immortal Palace. Consequently, both the Xiao Sect and the Burning Heaven Clan faced reprimand and were sentenced to five hundred years of political neutrality within the empire.

Additionally, with special permission from the Palace Mistress, Emperor Cang Wanhe had even taken an unofficial disciple from the Inner Immortal Palace, Shi Miyi, as his Empress. Together, they bore two children: Prince Cang Lin and Princess Cang Yue. As a gesture of celebration for their union and the birth of the royal heirs, the Palace had generously bestowed the empire with abundant natural resources, sufficient to support the rise of several loyal Overlords and Thrones devoted to the imperial family.

Today, Emperor Cang summoned a select group of his most trusted advisors to discuss a piece of news concerning Fairy Xu and the empire's secret affairs. Standing below his throne were six distinguished individuals: Palace Chief Dongfang Xiu, Vice Chief Qin Wushang, Elder Qin Wuyou, State Advisor Yi Xuan, Duchess Ning Mei, and Marchioness Lin Lang. They represented the pinnacle of power within the Blue Wind Empire—the Overlords and Thrones.

"News has arrived from agents in Floating Cloud City. Three weeks ago, Fairy Xu personally accepted two of its residents into the Palace," Advisor Yi reported. "The purpose behind her Grace's visit remains unknown, your Majesty."

"Hmm..." Cang Wanhe paused, deep in thought. "Cease all investigations into the reason behind her Grace's actions. Instead, delve into the backgrounds of the chosen ladies."

"Your Majesty, the local agents have submitted a concise surface background report on each lady. Would you like to review it first?" Advisor Yi handed two small stacks of papers to Cang Wanhe. "Shall I personally gather more detailed information?"

"No, the information provided in these memos is sufficient," Cang Wanhe replied, shifting his attention away from the papers. "Continue monitoring the Xia and the Xiao Manors. Provide assistance if needed. You may leave."

"Yes, your Majesty," Advisor Yi acknowledged before leaving the hall to attend to his other duties.

"Chief Xiu, Vice Chief Wushang, and Elder Wuyou, how is the progress of the secret profound strengthening formation?" Cang Wanhe turned his attention to the remaining officers.

"Your Majesty, the day when the Blue Wind Empire dominates the seven nations tournament draws near," Chief Xiu declared, retrieving a neatly folded paper from his robe. "These are the final materials and requirements needed to complete the formation, your Majesty."

A troubled expression crossed Cang Wanhe's face. 'Ten Sovereign Profound Cores, two kilograms of Purple Veined Divine Crystals, and, most importantly, an operator of Monarch level.' Tapping the handle of his golden throne with his right hand while his left hand rested beneath his chin. 'We could acquire ten sovereign cores from the Palace, although it will be an expensive deal, the empire can afford it.'

"Shadow," Cang Wanhe uttered. Emerging from the shadows, a figure appeared, devoid of any obvious gender indicators. The shadow positioned itself beside Wanhe's right side and bowed its head.

"What is the current state of the empire's secret treasury? Do we possess enough Purple Veined Divine Crystals?"

"Answering your Majesty, unfortunately, the vault has only managed to accumulate three hundred such crystals over the centuries, as they are highly monopolized by the other Great Sacred Grounds."

"Sigh. Do we have any other valuable items in the vault that could capture the Palace's interest?"

"Are you certain about that, your Majesty?" the Shadow inquired. "Blue Wind's forbidden treasures must remain a secret, lest the Sacred Grounds descend upon us as they did with the Eternal Night Royal Family."

"We have no choice. The allure of the profound strengthening formation is simply too great, and perhaps a Monarch may be born from it. We must place our trust in the righteousness and virtue of the Palace ladies, particularly Yue'er, who is an Inner disciple. Moreover, by doing so, we can rid ourselves of those burdens that have loomed over us for centuries," Cang Wanhe proclaimed with determination and resolve.

"As you wish, your Majesty," the Shadow replied, retreating back into the darkness. Five minutes later, it returned, holding three small items in its hands. "Once again, the fate of the empire and the imperial family rests on these three forbidden treasures. Your decision today will redefine its destiny. Are you aware of the consequences?" This a final warning from the Shadow, loyal only to the empire, regardless of the changing rulers.

"Yes, and I am willing to take the risk," Cang Wanhe affirmed, gazing back at the five figures before him. "Are there any further rational objections?"

"We, the Blue Wind Profound Palace, place our trust in Your Majesty's wisdom. We have no objections," Chief Xiu replied.

"Since Your Majesty has thoroughly considered this matter, I shall respectfully stand by your side," Marchioness Lin responded while meticulously tending to her glossy nails.

"No objections, royal brother," Duchess Ning turned away, signaling the conclusion of the meeting. "As I mentioned twenty years ago, I trust your cunning over the valor of our late brother, Cang Feng. Excuse me, royal brother."

As Cang Wanhe watched her retreating figure, alone and detached, he couldn't help but feel a pang of melancholy. 'I am sorry, Mei'er. An ocean can only sustain one true dragon, either Cang Feng or me. I hope to make it up to you, to once again witness your radiant smile, just as we did when we were children, playing tag in Cang Feng's courtyard.' A sense of longing enveloped him.

"Prepare quickly, Chief Xiu. We will depart for the holy ground as soon as the Frozen Cloud Immortal Exam is open to the public," Cang Wanhe declared, concluding the meeting. "This meeting is adjourned. You may all retire now."