Chen Clan of Ginkou Continent

Chen Clan of Ginkou Continent

Upon Qin Wentian's departure from Chu, the nation had settled into a state of stability. Under the reign of Emperor Chu Wuwei, past grievances were addressed, and the Emperor Star Academy was rebuilt. The country was on the path of recovery after the ravages of war.

The prestige of noble clans ebbed and flowed in tandem with the fortunes of those they had supported.

Knowing that her presence was no longer vital in Chu, Luo Huan decided to venture across Grand Xia. Her travels took her westward, spanning various countries and even reaching the Qing Continent, home to the Greencloud Pavilion and Nine Mystical Palace. With her perspectives broadened, she realized the smallness of Chu and the limitations of her individual strength.

Her natural beauty, charming demeanor, and personality made her a sought-after object of desire, with men often ogling her in admiration. This allure, however, also led her into some perilous situations. Fortunately, her cleverness guided her in safeguarding herself. She had come to understand the importance of affiliating with a major power, a shield against danger.

Yearning to join such a power, she connected with a group of fellow travelers upon her arrival in Ginkou. Despite their boastful airs, she maintained a facade of civility, opting for the safety of traveling in numbers. When one of her "companions" claimed acquaintance with someone from the Pill Emperor Hall, Luo Huan's interest was piqued. However, her intention was to gather information rather than directly aligning herself with the Pill Emperor Hall.

But as it turned out, the braggart's words were not entirely false. The person he knew, Jing Yu, was indeed a disciple of the Pill Emperor's daughter, Luo He. In the past, Jing Yu had even visited Chu alongside Luo He and participated in bringing Mo Qingcheng away.

Luo Huan's astonishment peaked as she spotted none other than Qin Wentian at the inn. The transformation in his demeanor was striking; he radiated an aura that was distinctly different from their past encounters. Memories of their first meeting when Qin Wentian was fleeing from the Ye Clan flooded her mind. Back then, he had been a stranger in need, but now, their bond had evolved into a sibling-like connection. Seeing him again after such a prolonged separation stirred deep emotions within her.

Their eyes locked in recognition, accompanied by warm smiles that spoke volumes of their genuine connection. It was a precious moment they both cherished.

Fan Le couldn't help but notice Qin Wentian's distinct reaction and followed his gaze. His eyes lit up with delight as he, too, recognized their Senior Sister Luo Huan. What a twist of fate to reunite with her in such an unexpected place.

Meanwhile, the young man from Luo Huan's table stood up, addressing another newcomer, Jing Yu. Up the stairs, Jing Yu, accompanied by another young man, walked in a leisurely manner. Luo Huan's eyes sparkled with mischief as she observed Jing Yu's arrival, clearly hinting that she had some playful scheme in store.

With a wink and a nod, she silently conveyed her intentions to Qin Wentian and Fan Le. A secret plot was brewing, and both of them were game.

Qin Wentian's gaze shifted to Jing Yu as he approached. His heart trembled slightly. Jing Yu's presence meant that others from the Pill Emperor Hall couldn't be far behind. Perhaps, Qingcheng was in close proximity.

Recognizing the situation, Qin Wentian subtly nodded in agreement with Luo Huan's plan. He feigned nonchalance, sipping his wine as if he remained oblivious to Jing Yu's presence.

Jing Yu entered the inn accompanied by another young man, exuding an aura that appeared genuine and unpretentious, a hallmark of someone from a transcendent power. Dressed in white, Jing Yu seemed preoccupied, his brows creased in contemplation. The companion by his side, a spirited and handsome youth, was unmistakably from the Chen Clan.

In the Ginkou Continent, the Chen Clan had roots dating back to Ancient Grand Xia, solidifying its status as one of the most ancient and revered clans. Rumors even suggested that the Chen Clan was among the nine primary bloodlines that once divided Grand Xia.

Following the fall of Ancient Grand Xia, the Chen Clan relocated to the Ginkou Continent, reestablishing its presence there. Unquestionably, the Chen Clan ranked among the top three in terms of power among all transcendent powers.

Their unique cultivation art, the Great Solar Universe Cultivation Art, drew strength from the sun, enabling practitioners to transform the very "universe." This revered art was rumored to be one of Ancient Grand Xia's ultimate techniques, channeling limitless energy. Those who mastered it could conjure forth the might of the Great Solar energy, incinerating skies and boiling oceans. Moreover, their blood became infused with the Great Solar attribute, unleashing devastation in their wake and obliterating opponents within a certain radius.

The reputation of this formidable cultivation art was unparalleled, and its power seemingly insurmountable within Grand Xia.

The Pill Emperor Hall and the Chen Clan shared a historical connection. With the Pill Emperor Hall's arrival in the Ginkou Continent, it was only natural for the Chen Clan to extend their hospitality by inviting them to rest at the Chen Clan's Estate.

Upon laying eyes on Mo Qingcheng, Chen Ran was utterly captivated by her exquisite beauty. Her ability to reject numerous distinguished and talented suitors only added to her allure. Knowing that she had brushed aside even formidable rivals like Hua Taixu and Zhan Chen elevated her in Chen Ran's estimation. He harbored a deep admiration for her, though he anticipated fierce competition for her affection. His strongest contenders were undoubtedly Hua Taixu and Zhan Chen. Yet, to his surprise, he learned that Mo Qingcheng held all suitors in disregard. This discovery renewed his hope, prompting him to forge a closer bond with Jing Yu, who shared the privilege of being a fellow disciple under the Pill Emperor's daughter, Luo He.

Without this connection, Chen Ran's status would hardly warrant his association with Jing Yu. This mutual acquaintance presented an opportunity he was determined not to miss.

Chen Ran's heart simmered with ardor, but strangely, Jing Yu's was clouded with apprehension. He found himself stagnating in his cultivation within the Pill Emperor Hall. His talents were unremarkable, and certain incidents involving Mo Qingcheng had left his master, Luo He, gravely disappointed in him.

Jing Yu's feelings for Mo Qingcheng ran deep, yet he remained paralyzed by his adoration, unable to summon the courage for confession. The presence of numerous brilliant contenders pursuing her only intensified his internal struggle. The bitterness within him grew, painting a vivid picture of his emotional turmoil. In the past days since their arrival in the Ginkou Continent, Jing Yu had sought solace in alcohol, drowning his sorrows night after night. His chance encounter with his blood brother, Jing Feng, had led him to this inn.

As he approached their table, Jing Feng greeted him with warmth, but Jing Yu responded with a mere nod. Sensing his brother's unspoken inquiry, Jing Yu couldn't help but sneer inwardly at his wretched brother. Jing Feng was hardly devoted to his cultivation, instead, indulging in frivolous pursuits daily. Now, he was attempting to manipulate Jing Yu as a means to ensnare women—a prospect Jing Yu found utterly ludicrous.

Jing Yu shifted his gaze, blatantly ignoring the unremarkable girl next to Yang Xia. The latter was throwing flirtatious glances at him, striking poses that accentuated her figure. To him, such a display reeked of vulgarity—was she attempting to play the part of a courtesan? It seemed only Jing Feng would be entertained by her.

Being accustomed to Mo Qingcheng's presence, few women could captivate Jing Yu's attention nowadays. However, when his eyes landed on Luo Huan, his interest was piqued. There was an innate allure about her that immediately drew him in. Although her figure was modestly concealed, her well-endowed assets defied concealment. Contrasting with Yang Xia, who undoubtedly possessed her own beauty and curves, the latter's blatant display of cleavage was an instant turn-off. Luo Huan, with a single glance, had managed to ignite a fervor within Jing Yu's heart.

"What a stunning beauty. I wouldn't mind trading a year of my life for a night with her," Jing Yu mused as he fixated on the captivating visage before him, his desires stirred.

As for Chen Ran, he gleaned about 70% to 80% of the situation merely from the scene before him. His internal sneer was not lost on him—he understood the root of Jing Yu's melancholy lay in his unrequited affection for Mo Qingcheng. Yet, his feelings for her were doomed to be unreciprocated; in comparison to the dazzling geniuses surrounding her, he paled in comparison. He was akin to a toad yearning for a swan's grace.

"Well, I have to admit, this maiden's beauty is truly exceptional. Were it not for Mo Qingcheng, I'd also entertain the thought of spending a few nights with her. However, since Jing Yu has set his sights on her, I might as well assist him, hastening the end of his infatuation with Mo Qingcheng," Chen Ran mused. He continued with a chuckle, "Brother Jing Yu is a disciple under Senior Luo He. While it may require some effort on his part to bring people into the Pill Emperor Hall, it shouldn't be an insurmountable task. Still, the question remains—why should he extend such help to complete strangers?"

Jing Yu took a sip of wine, finding himself in agreement with Chen Ran's observation.

"We possess some treasures that could be yours if you'd lend us your assistance." Yang Xia's skepticism had waned as she sensed the extraordinary aura emanating from Jing Yu and Chen Ran. It had become evident to her that this was a rare and valuable opportunity.

"Brother Jing Yu is a disciple of the Pill Emperor Hall. Why would he require your treasures?" Chen Ran's gaze roved over Yang Xia's form. Yang Xia couldn't have missed the implications. She shifted her gaze between the two, entertaining the notion—it wouldn't be a terrible deal, even if she agreed to their terms.

"I'm willing to offer whatever I can," Yang Xia bashfully chimed in, casting her eyes downward. The undertones of their conversation had grown crystal clear. At that moment, however, Chen Ran's attention shifted to Luo Huan. The change in focus caused Yang Xia's expression to freeze, her previous assumptions stinging her cheeks with embarrassment.

Luo Huan wasn't oblivious to the unfolding scene. A sense of despondence settled within her heart. She had anticipated Jing Feng sending a lackluster intermediary, yet she had clearly misjudged the situation. Chen Ran's cultivation undoubtedly surpassed hers, and just his gaze alone weighed heavily on her. These two individuals, despite their affiliation with transcendent powers, were behaving no differently from lecherous men. Luo Huan had grown accustomed to such unpleasant encounters and had learned to mask her emotions—a skill she had honed during her travels in Grand Xia. It was an acquired defense mechanism against the vile tendencies of men.

"My abilities aren't exceptional enough to warrant acceptance into the Pill Emperor Hall, I'm afraid," Luo Huan responded with a smile. Despite her inner disgust, she had mastered the art of concealing her true feelings. The cautiousness she had cultivated during her time in Grand Xia was evident now, especially in comparison to her naivety back in Chu.

"No need to worry. With your willingness to invest, I can assure you that I can secure a place for you within a transcendent power," Chen Ran coaxed in hushed tones. After all, this wasn't a matter that would boost his reputation—quite the opposite.

His intentions were becoming glaringly apparent. No one could misinterpret his insinuations—he was insinuating that Luo Huan should offer her body in exchange.

Qin Wentian silently observed the unfolding scenario, understanding the predicament his senior sister Luo Huan was in. Upon Chen Ran's words, a cold smile crept across his features.

"Apologies, but I've got prior commitments. I must take my leave," Luo Huan declared, her face radiating politeness.

Chen Ran's eyes narrowed slightly before flashing with a fiery determination. Witnessing Luo Huan's movement, he added in an icy tone, "I suggest you stay seated."

"Luo Huan, please remain seated," Jing Yu chimed in, his demeanor shifting. It seemed that Chen Ran also held an interest in Luo Huan.

Luo Huan's expression shifted subtly, yet just as the situation was escalating, Qin Wentian, who happened to be nearby, stood up with a grin on his face. Meeting his gaze, Luo Huan reciprocated the smile before she continued walking toward Qin Wentian.

"Maybe take another step, just for fun," Jing Yu's temper was already frayed today. He could only admire Mo Qingcheng from afar, and now, an unknown woman dared to rebuff him? It was like rubbing salt into his wounded pride.

"Senior Sister, no need to waste time on insignificant figures," Qin Wentian grinned, striding purposefully toward Luo Huan. Her face brightened at his words. Qin Wentian had always been cautious and prudent back in Chu. For him to make such a remark indicated he held no fear of Jing Yu and his companion. Her smile grew more radiant as she glanced at Qin Wentian's companions. Aside from Fan Le, the presence of Ouyang Kuangsheng and Jiang Ting among them was hard to ignore. None of them were anything short of remarkable!