News of the Emperor's Death

With a somber expression, Zhang Liang entered Zenki's office that morning, bringing news of utmost gravity. The Emperor of Frosthold, who also happened to be Chen Jing's father, had passed away. As a result, the rightful heir to the throne would be none other than Chen Sheng himself.

This turn of events signaled potential repercussions for their actions, as they had provided aid and shelter to Chen Jing when he was pursued by assassins sent by Chen Sheng himself.

"This could spell trouble," Zenki murmured, his brow furrowed with concern. Lost in deep thought, he pondered the potential consequences of their actions, unaware that his "Good" uncle was currently engaged in a meeting with the newly crowned Emperor of Frosthold.

After their triumphant return from the tomb of Liu Xiaohua, the group comprising Liu Yong, Lian Yaoshi, Zhang Yitian, Liu Wei, Chen Jing, Lianhua, and Zenki's children Zhen Yi, Yu Mei, Mingliang, and Mengting made their way back to the castle. The long and arduous journey had left them visibly fatigued, yet their spirits remained high, fueled by the exhilaration of their successful adventure.

As they entered the castle grounds, their weary expressions were met with a warm welcome from the waiting servants and guards. The courtyard echoed with cheers and applause, a testament to their bravery and achievement. Zenki, Meiying, Zhenyue, and Qingyi, who had been eagerly awaiting their return, stepped forward to greet them with open arms.

Despite their exhaustion, Zenki, Meiying, Zhenyue, and Qingyi found solace in the fact that their loved ones had returned unscathed. They expressed their heartfelt gratitude, thanking the heavens for keeping them safe from any major harm during their perilous undertaking. The sense of relief was palpable, mingled with a profound appreciation for their companions' resilience and determination.

Zhen Yi, Yu Mei, Mingliang, and Mengting were taken aback to see their third mother, Qingyi, finally return to the Kingdom. Although her fierce demeanor remained, they sensed a subtle shift in her gaze towards them. In the past, they hadn't been particularly close or made efforts to connect with her. However, with their newfound aspiration to create a harmonious family, they resolved to confront their mother head-on and work towards improving their relationship.

They approached Qingyi with determination, ready to bridge the gap that had kept them distant for so long. Despite their initial apprehension, they understood the importance of fostering a bond with their third mother and creating a stronger sense of unity within their family. They hoped that by reaching out and demonstrating their sincerity, they could break down the barriers that had hindered their connection.

Zhen Yi approached Qingyi, his voice filled with genuine warmth, "Mother Qingyi, it brings us great joy to have you back. We've missed your presence in our lives."

Yu Mei, with a gentle smile, added, "We've come to realize that we haven't invested enough effort in getting to know you, but that is something we wholeheartedly wish to change. We want to create a deeper bond with you, Mother Qingyi."

Mingliang's sincere expression mirrored his words, "In our pursuit of a harmonious family, we understand that open communication and understanding are vital. We genuinely desire to build a stronger relationship with you, Mother Qingyi."

Mengting, her eyes reflecting a mix of vulnerability and determination, spoke from the heart, "Throughout your absence, we have grown and evolved as individuals. Now, we want nothing more than to include you in our lives and share the experiences that have shaped us. Will you grant us the chance to know you better, Mother Qingyi?"

Qingyi was taken aback by the genuine and heartfelt words of her children. In the past, she had yearned for a closer connection but had resigned herself to the belief that it might never happen. Their unexpected approach touched her deeply, igniting a glimmer of hope within her.

Qingyi, somewhat surprised by their approach, paused for a moment, her eyes softening ever so slightly. She had always yearned for a deeper connection with her children but had never expected them to take the initiative. Their earnest words touched her heart, and she realized that this was an opportunity for growth and healing within their family.

Qingyi's voice carried a hint of sincerity, though a subtle stiffness remained in her demeanor. She acknowledged their words with gratitude, yet her years of practicing the facade of fake-bravado made it challenging for her to fully let her guard down.

Qingyi replied, her tone measured but laced with a newfound determination, "I am grateful for your sincerity, my dear children. I have also desired a closer bond with each of you. Let us embark on this journey together and work towards building the harmonious family we all long for."

While her response retained a hint of reserve, Zhen Yi, Yu Mei, Mingliang, and Mengting understood that it would take time for their third mother to fully embrace their intentions. Nonetheless, they remained undeterred, eager to break down the walls that had kept them apart for so long. Their commitment to fostering a loving and united family remained unwavering, and they knew that with patience and understanding, they could gradually dissolve the layers of apprehension that held Qingyi back.

The atmosphere was filled with a mix of hope and determination as they set their sights on a future where genuine connections could blossom, ultimately strengthening the bond that tied them together as a family.

The group entered the dining hall of the castle, their faces flushed from their arduous journey. They took their seats around a long table, their eyes filled with a mix of exhaustion and excitement. Zenki, sitting at the head of the table, looked at each of them with a warm smile.

Zenki with a smile on his face told them "Welcome back, everyone. I'm glad to see you all in one piece. It must have been quite an adventure exploring the tomb of Liu Xiaohua."

Liu Yong explained "Indeed, Your Majesty. It was a challenging expedition, but they managed to overcome the obstacles and gain some lucky encounters on the way"

Zhen Yi, Yu Mei, Mingliang and Mengting started sharing their thrilling experiences in the tomb of Liu Xiaohua to their father Zenki and their mothers Meiying, Zhenyue, and Qingyi.

Zenki, Meiying, Zhenyue, and Qingyi listened with interest as they heard about their adventures in the tomb of Liu Xiaohua. However, as the story progressed, they couldn't help but feel a sense of anxiety about what could have gone wrong and the danger that they had faced. Qingyi, in particular, who maintained her calm and composed exterior, couldn't help but feel a slight increase in her heartbeat and the palms of her hands becoming slightly sweaty.

As the group finished their dinner, Zenki decided to share some important news that Zhang Liang had informed him about earlier. He cleared his throat and turned his attention towards everyone gathered at the table.

"I have received news that the Emperor of the Kingdom of Frosthold has passed away," Zenki began, his voice carrying a somber tone. "With his demise, Chen Sheng has now assumed the throne as the new Emperor of Frosthold."

The group listened attentively, some nodding in acknowledgement as they had already heard whispers of this development during their journey back. Chen Jing, however, couldn't help but express his concerns.

"If Chen Sheng has taken the throne, it might put you all in danger," Chen Jing voiced his worry. "I should probably leave the kingdom to ensure your safety."

Zenki's gaze met Chen Jing's, a steadfast determination shining in his eyes. "Chen Jing, you are part of our family now," he asserted. "We have faced numerous challenges together, and we will continue to do so. No matter what comes our way, we will stand united."

The room fell into a brief silence, the weight of Zenki's words sinking in. Meiying, Zhenyue, and Qingyi exchanged glances, showing their agreement with Zenki's stance. It was a testament to the bonds they had formed, transcending mere acquaintanceship to become a true family.

Zenki's voice grew resolute as he continued, "We have weathered storms before, and we will navigate this one as well. I believe that Chen Sheng may already be aware of our involvement in helping you escape from the assassins, Chen Jing. But together, we will face whatever challenges lie ahead."

Chen Jing's expression softened, touched by the unwavering support and loyalty he saw in Zenki's eyes. The unity and resilience of their newfound family filled him with a sense of hope and reassurance.

With their shared determination and unwavering bond, the group prepared themselves for the uncertainties that awaited them. The dinner table became a symbol of their commitment to stand by each other's side, facing the turbulent times that loomed ahead with unwavering resolve.

Following their dinner, the group presented Zenki with a precious gift - the Flameheart pill they had obtained during their expedition. Lian Yaoshi stepped forward, explaining the pill's properties and the potential benefits it could offer. Grateful for their thoughtful gesture, Zenki expressed his heartfelt thanks and acknowledged the significance of the gift.

Understanding the imminent challenges that lay ahead, Zenki recognized the importance of further advancing his cultivation to confront the approaching storm. With a firm resolve, he decided to consume the Flameheart pill at the earliest opportunity. The prospect of gaining additional power through this advancement fueled his determination, as he believed it would strengthen their collective ability to face the trials that awaited them.

After the conversation about the Flameheart Pill, Lian Yaoshi took the opportunity to bring up the Dead Seed and the ancient scroll that had been discovered by Mengting and Liu Wei in the tomb. The mention of these mysterious artifacts piqued Zenki's curiosity.

"Lian Yaoshi, these items seem to hold great significance," Zenki remarked, his eyes reflecting a mix of intrigue and determination. "If they indeed possess the power to aid us in the future, it would be wise to uncover their true nature and potential."

Lian Yaoshi nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Zenki. I believe that exploring their origins and understanding their purpose could provide us with valuable insights and advantages. With your permission, I would like to venture beyond the kingdom's borders to conduct further research."

Zenki considered Lian Yaoshi's request for a moment before offering his unwavering support. "Lian Yaoshi, you have been a trusted companion and a pillar of wisdom. I have full confidence in your abilities. Pursue this path, for I believe it will benefit our cause."

Lian Yaoshi's eyes brightened with gratitude, grateful for Zenki's trust and encouragement. "Thank you, your majesty. I will do everything in my power to unlock the secrets of these artifacts and bring back knowledge that will aid us in our journey."

The group exchanged glances, silently acknowledging the importance of Lian Yaoshi's mission. They understood that while he ventured beyond the kingdom's borders, they would continue to uphold the fortitude and unity they had forged together.

The atmosphere in the room was charged with a sense of anticipation and unity. Each member of the group understood the weight of their responsibilities and the need to stand united against the impending tempest. With the Flameheart pill serving as a symbol of their shared commitment and resolve, they prepared themselves mentally and emotionally for the challenges to come, ready to face the storm head-on.