Chương 155: Chapter 154: The New Emperor

The air hung heavy with a haunting stillness as Yun Che's party sliced through the skies above Little White, bidding farewell to the sanctuary of Huan Xuyi. What was once a lively atmosphere beside Lin Xin and her daughter now transformed into a deep silence, resonating the ache nestled in their hearts.

The memories of laughter, camaraderie, and shared struggles clung to their minds, reminiscent of the bittersweet departure from the Feng Family within the Phoenix Clan. Bonds woven in those fleeting moments seemed to stretch across the vast expanse beneath them, connecting them to a past now shrouded in distance.

As they ascended, the echoes of their battle against the corrupted Isu Dragon Wrath cast a looming shadow over their thoughts. The clashing forces, the desperate struggle to alter the fate of Xueli and the Huan Family reverberated in the quiet of the skies. The scars of that confrontation lingered, etching a somber undertone into the very fabric of their shared experience.

Lin Xin's newfound abilities, birthed amidst the chaos, added a layer of complexity to their reflections. The air crackled with unspoken words and unsolved mysteries, and the group couldn't shake the feeling that the consequences of that battle would continue to unfold in unpredictable ways.

As the winds bore Yun Che's party away from Huan Xuyi's sanctuary, a palpable regret hung in the air. The absence of Libra, one of the twelve heavenly stars, burdened their hearts. The promise of celestial guidance on their adventures had tantalized them, a vision of ease and protection in the face of the unknown.

Yet, disappointment gave way to a solemn understanding. Leaving Libra behind was no trifling decision. The safety of Lin Xin and her daughter took precedence, and having the heavenly star stay with them would be a shield against the uncertainties ahead.

In the pursuit of safeguarding Lin Xin's awakening powers and preparing Xueli for future challenges, the group recognized the wisdom in letting Libra remain by the side of the mother and daughter. The celestial guardian's guidance would be instrumental in honing Lin Xin's burgeoning abilities and shaping Xueli into a formidable force.

The sacrifice of leaving Libra behind spoke volumes about the selflessness and dedication of Yun Che's party. As they soared through the skies, regretful whispers of missed opportunities were drowned out by the resolute understanding that their choices were driven by a greater purpose – the protection and empowerment of those they held dear.

"Do we have to go through this every time we meet new people? First, the Feng Family, and now this…" Cang Yue's voice cut through the heavy silence that enveloped Yun Che's party. Her words carried a weariness that spoke of the repetitive pain of parting with those they grew close to. The uncertainty of how many more precious connections lay in their future, each ending with a farewell, weighed on her.

"It can't be helped. We are cultivators with a goal, and both of them are in safe hands," Yun Che replied, his voice tinged with the same sadness that lingered in the air. The separation from Xueli and her mother had left an undeniable ache in his heart.

"Still," Cang Yue hesitated, her doubt echoing the unspoken sentiments of the group.

"Don't worry, Little Yue. Libra's presence eases us more than leaving them there all by themselves. With her by their side, no one would dare mess with Xin'er anymore. And when Xueli is ready to train, Libra will be there for her," Retsu reassured, attempting to soothe Cang Yue's troubled heart.

"Still, it's a shame we couldn't bring Libra with us, man. Have you seen her true level?" Kon interjected, expressing the shared sentiment of missed potential.

"Well, we do have Mio, you girls, and Kon. We are in much safer hands within each other. Besides, it's nice to depend on all of you," Yun Che said, redirecting their focus to the strength they found in their unity.

A brief quiet settled over them before their expressions suddenly brightened.

"Mouuu, Yuu-kun, you charmer. You know I'll protect all of us," Retsu declared, holding her cheeks in delight at Yun Che's acknowledgment of her protective role.

"Ehee… Yun Che depends on me… I am really happy for some reason... Ehee…" Cang Yue chimed in, momentarily forgetting her current sadness in the warmth of his words.

"Don't worry, Danna-sama! I'll be the sole protector in our group!" Mio exclaimed, her blush revealing the happiness that Yun Che's words brought.

"Bastard, your praise doesn't make me happy at all," Kon grumbled, attempting to maintain his tough exterior, but the happiness in his expression betrayed him.

The moment resembled the camaraderie of Luffy's crew after receiving praise. Yet, as Yun Che reflected on Libra's absence, he pondered the potential drawbacks of her inclusion. While she would undoubtedly enhance their power, relying on her might hinder their growth. The recent battle with Wrath highlighted the existence of beings far more powerful than them, prompting Yun Che to consider the need for training and exploring ways to break through their current level cap.

As his thoughts raced with the possibilities of leveling up and newfound strength, a sense of excitement filled Yun Che's mind. The journey ahead, despite its challenges, held the promise of growth and discovery.

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Back in the realm of cultivators, the transition from the sanctuary seemed to be a step into a world untouched by the recent chaos. Despite the turmoil within the realm, the outside world remained seemingly unaffected, as if the events of a week ago were but a fleeting breeze to the eyes of the people. Amidst this unchanged landscape, the realm bore witness to the advanced technologies and transformative changes that Yun Che had introduced to his companions, as well as the intrigued mother and daughter.

A wry smile played on Yun Che's lips as he recalled Cang Yue's specific request for the special toilet he had devised. The memory of her reaction, a mix of surprise and amusement, echoed in his mind. She had even gone as far as to express her desire to have one installed in her palace once they arrived in the Imperial City. The thought brought a small chuckle to Yun Che, envisioning Cang Yue's regal surroundings being graced by the whimsical innovation.

Their journey continued, weaving through the tapestry of landscapes and realms until they found themselves at the outskirts of the Blue Wind Imperial City. According to the system map, they were now in close proximity to Yín Gǎng City, the second vanguard city after Gao Ling City. This city held the teleporting formation of the Moon Empress's hidden tomb, a place rife with mystery and potential danger.

Cang Yue's voice resonated in Yun Che's mind, guiding them on the path to Yín Gǎng City. Situated on the eastern frontier, its shore road traced a captivating route leading directly to the Imperial City. Following the coastline, the journey promised scenic vistas and the rhythmic lull of the sea, a prelude to the grandeur that awaited them in the Imperial City itself.

The hunger that gnawed at their stomachs prompted a detour, leading Yun Che's party to a quaint town nestled on the road to Yín Gǎng City. Lin Xin's culinary delights had satisfied their taste buds, but the insatiable demands of their high energy consumption begged for more sustenance. The town, a humble settlement catering to passing cultivators, emerged like an oasis promising nourishment for the weary.

Considering the tempting allure of Yín Gǎng City, the group weighed their options. Yet, fueled by the desire to reach the Blue Wind Imperial City two weeks earlier, they chose to linger in the small town instead. Tomorrow's flight to their final destination loomed on the horizon, but for now, the hunger for exploration and sustenance took precedence.

Landing Little White nearby, they set out to explore the town, their curiosity piqued by the unfamiliar surroundings. In search of an inn with a restaurant, the aroma of tantalizing dishes wafted through the air, leading them like a trail of breadcrumbs. Cloaks were donned, disguising them as ordinary travelers, blending seamlessly with the bustling crowd.

The sight of cultivators, a familiar presence after a while, brought a sense of solace to their hearts. It hinted at a shared journey, an unspoken camaraderie that transcended the confines of the sanctuary. One day, Yun Che mused, they might bring Lin Xin and Xueli along to experience the wonders of the outside world.

"I am sure we're going to cause a ruckus again after ordering this much," Retsu remarked with a mischievous glint in her eyes, taking in the skeptical looks of the waiters who, once again, found themselves standing before a group that defied conventional dining expectations. Having located a suitable inn with a restaurant, they prepared for an eating operation of epic proportions, with plates stacked high with an array of delicacies.

"Ufuu… I wonder how many chefs have fainted cooking our meals," Mio added with a cheeky grin, brandishing a purple coin as evidence to dispel any disbelief regarding their extravagant orders.

"As long as we're paying them handsomely," Cang Yue chimed in, her voice carrying an air of nonchalance.

"Right…" All three of them responded in unison, a synchronized agreement that spoke volumes about their shared approach to dining extravagance.

"These girls…" Yun Che sighed, his expression a mix of exasperation and amusement. He couldn't help but marvel at how they effortlessly turned him into their financial backbone. Who said having a harem was an easy life? The discreet cloaks, serving as a veil to their beauty, shielded him from the potential chaos of admirers, annoying suitors, or those seeking to pick fights.

The day was meant to be carefree, filled with laughter and indulgence, until a snippet of conversation from a nearby group caught their attention.

"Brothers, I heard the execution is today. Is that true?" one of the travelers spoke, prompting hushed tones and furrowed brows from those around.

"It is… It is a shame. For someone planning to sell the empire. Looks like the coup last night was indeed a success," his companion replied, revealing a thread of intrigue and tension in the air.

"They even managed to suppress the Blue Wind Profound Palace. The place is now on lockdown," another traveler added, unwittingly catching the attention of Cang Yue, who was attuned to any mention of her true allegiance in the world of cultivators.

"A coup? Execution? Could it be a civil war among sect members?" Yun Che pondered aloud, earning a concerned glance from Cang Yue.

"Yun Che, I am kind of worried. Civil war in the Blue Wind Profound Palace? Did something happen?" Cang Yue's voice betrayed a hint of anxiety, her connection to the Blue Wind Profound Palace making the news particularly unsettling.

"Don't mind much about them. I am sure it's fine. Come, let's eat," Yun Che attempted to reassure, redirecting their focus back to the feast laid before them. However, their attempts to enjoy the meal were halted as a particular name was mentioned, casting a shadow over the atmosphere.

"Yeah, looks like the first prince's coup was indeed a success. They managed to overthrow the mad rumored emperor. He plans to drag the empire down with him. Who knew he could plan this in his deathbed," the travelers conversed, their words carrying the weight of political upheaval. Cang Yue's spoon slipped from her grasp, clattering against the plate, as the shocking revelation reached her ears. Her companions, attuned to the shift in atmosphere, turned their attention towards her.

In a haze of drunkenness, another traveler continued, "The coup the first prince launched was a success. Heard he had support from the former third prince's followers and made them his own. That alone was enough to overthrow the emperor, and he assumed power today, deciding to execute his own father."

"The mad emperor? Who is he?" inquired his companion.

"It was his own father. The former emperor of the Blue Wind Empire, Cang Wanhe," the drunk traveler divulged, casting a shadow over the atmosphere. Cang Yue's expression shifted from shock to anger in an instant.

Unable to contain her fury, Cang Yue erupted from her seat, her hand clamping down on the shoulder of the unsuspecting traveler. With the strength befitting a First Level Earth Profound Realm cultivator, she effortlessly lifted the large man before slamming him onto the ground. The force of her anger leaked through her aura, causing those nearby to step back, awed and intimidated by the sudden display of power. The companions of the fallen man, mere True Profound Realm cultivators, recoiled in fear as Cang Yue's aura overwhelmed them.

The tension in the air was palpable as Cang Yue stood over the fallen traveler, her anger burning like a fierce flame. The news of the coup and the shocking revelation about the former emperor had struck a chord deep within her, and her actions spoke of the turmoil raging within.

"Little Yue!" Yun Che's urgent shout cut through the tense atmosphere, his own shock mirroring the turmoil within Cang Yue as he heard the name Cang Wanhe.

"Repeat back what you said…" Cang Yue's voice growled, her hand pressing harder on the chest of the fallen traveler. Yun Che's party watched in astonishment as the usually gentle Cang Yue revealed a side they had never seen before—a fierce anger that seemed to emanate from deep within. Her past loss of Xueli to bandits had made her resilient, but this was an intensity they hadn't witnessed.

The drunk traveler, struggling to comprehend the sudden turn of events, stammered, "Whaa..." only to feel Cang Yue's grip tighten.

"Repeat back!" Cang Yue's demand reverberated through the air.

"I don't know anything. I just heard the news. That's all," the drunkard replied, fear etched across his face.

"What news?" Yun Che questioned, his own shock evident.

"The execution of the former emperor Cang Wanhe. It will be held today at noon in the Blue Wind Imperial Palace," the drunkard answered. Cang Yue gritted her teeth, unwilling to let the man tarnish her father's name with his words.

"Cang Wanhe?" Yun Che's shock deepened as the pieces fell into place. The original Yun Che had known Cang Wanhe as a kind old man who treated him with respect. The news of his supposed sickness didn't align with the reality of a coup and an impending execution.

"Why... He hasn't done anything wrong…" Cang Yue's internal turmoil spilled out, and she slammed the man once more. Turning to his less intoxicated companion, she demanded, "You... Talk..."

Fearing for his life, the companion spoke, "He... I heard the emperor was selling the Empire to the sects, and the first crown prince launched a coup to stop his father's madness. The palace fell as most of the supporters were Earth Profound Realm cultivators. He became emperor this morning and decided to execute his father for his crimes."

"Elder brother... he won't..." Cang Yue wondered aloud, the man beneath her picking up her words and assuming the worst.

"Elder... you... You're the Impe..." The man's words were cut short as a boot landed on his head, silencing any potential revelation. The unfolding events painted a grim picture of betrayal and political upheaval, leaving Yun Che's party grappling with the harsh reality that awaited them in the Blue Wind Imperial City.

Slam!

Yun Che decisively stepped on the man's head, cutting off any potential revelations, and immediately tossed three purple coins to cover the damages and uneaten meals. The abrupt turn of events left the public square in a state of hushed shock. Cang Yue wasted no time, swiftly making her way outside of town before summoning her eagle, Little White.

"Little Yue!" Yun Che called after her, tossing the coins before deciding to chase her down. Retsu and Mio followed suit, sprinting after Cang Yue, who stood outside town, waiting for the arrival of Little White.

"Little Yue, calm down, and let's think about this…" Yun Che attempted to soothe her, but a teary glare met his words.

"How am I supposed to calm down!? Father is about to be executed by my own brother! I have to get to him and prove he is innocent. Father won't do something like this," Cang Yue yelled, her anger taking control.

Yun Che, instead of escalating the situation, took a calm approach, speaking slowly to the distraught girl. "Let's just think for a second... Rushing in blindly won't do you any good."

"Why? Why? You are supposed to have my back. Why are you delaying like this?" Cang Yue directed her frustration at him as Retsu and Mio caught up, their expressions mirroring shock at the sight of her agitation.

Yun Che chose to remain silent, recognizing that any wrong words could ignite her volatile emotions. Cang Yue, lacking the forceful calm emotion suppression heart like Little Fairy, was a minefield of emotions.

"It is my brother's fault. Why does my father have to die? How many died last night while I wasn't around?" She continued to shout, the echoes of her anguish reverberating through the empty expanse.

"Little Yue, you are risking your life at this point. That's probably what this Cang Shuo wants," Yun Che tried to calm her again, but his words only seemed to stoke her agitation.

"I don't care if I am risking my life. I don't care anymore! If you won't go with me, then I'll go by myself!" Cang Yue declared, her voice carrying a resolute determination that echoed the turmoil within her.

Slap!!

Without warning, Retsu delivered a resounding slap to Cang Yue's cheek, sending her sprawling to the ground. The sudden and forceful action drew immediate attention from Yun Che, Mio, and Kon.

"Nee-san!" Kon exclaimed, his shock evident at witnessing Retsu raising her hand against Cang Yue.

"Retsu-chan!" Mio echoed the sentiment, equally surprised.

"Retsu..." Yun Che's voice cut through the tension. While his instinct was to intervene, he hesitated, recognizing that Retsu had a purpose in her actions.

"Why are you saying such things, Cang Yue?" Retsu began, her tone stern as Cang Yue slowly got up, rubbing her cheek with a shocked expression. The use of her full name, devoid of any honorifics or affectionate terms, added a layer of seriousness to the confrontation. The slap lacked physical pain, as Retsu had gone easy, but the emotional impact was profound. Cang Yue looked up at Retsu, her eyes wide with surprise, noting the anger and what seemed like tears in Retsu's eyes.

"Are those words you said to us about being family and friends just plain lies? Are we just subjects to you? Do you still see yourself as a princess above us, rather than as part of our family? Are you even our family anymore?" Retsu's words cut through the air like daggers, piercing Cang Yue's heart.

"Retsu-chan! That's..." Mio began, attempting to interject, but Yun Che held her back, shaking his head. He understood that Retsu's stern talk was a necessary reckoning for Cang Yue.

"Don't worry, Mio," Yun Che reassured, his eyes fixed on the unfolding scene. Through this confrontation, both Cang Yue and Mio began to grasp the depth of why Retsu deserved to be their Alpha, and the painful truths that needed to be addressed within their newfound family.

"You are just as important to us as Mio, Yuu-kun, and Kon. Saying those things—why are you acting like this is all about you?" Retsu scolded the princess, revealing a side of her they hadn't seen before—a gentle force capable of talking sense into someone.

Continuing with urgency, she declared, "We don't know much about your father, but Yuu-kun is right. Giving in to your anger and despair won't solve anything! You're just killing yourself at this point."

"Why are you risking your life without any guilt? Do you even know how we felt?" This time, her words triggered tears in Cang Yue's eyes. What had she done? She uttered hurtful things without considering their feelings. Despite their strength, she had forgotten everything in the face of this news and was ready to risk herself without thinking of her friends and family.

Unable to endure it any longer, Cang Yue began sobbing, her tears of helplessness flowing freely. "No one else would… Father… he…"

Cang Yue sobbed, drowning in guilt and helplessness. Retsu's expression shifted, perhaps realizing she might have been too harsh, but Yun Che's hand on her shoulder reassured her. He offered her a comforting smile before walking towards Cang Yue.

This time, Yun Che knelt down next to her and softly asked, "What about us, Little Yue?"

His words captured her attention, and he embraced her in his arms. "We're your family, aren't we? Have you considered asking for our help? Have you?"

Cang Yue sobbed even more, realizing how strong and supportive they were. Between sobs, she began apologizing, "I am sorry… I am sorry… I shouldn't… I… ughhhh…"

"Say it, Little Yue… Say what you wanted to say…" Retsu also knelt beside her, encouraging her to voice her true feelings.

"Yun Che… Retsu… Mio… Kon… Please… I want to… save my father…" Cang Yue spoke, her words punctuated by tears, but this time, there was a glimmer of hope in her eyes. Lowering her head, she exposed her utmost vulnerability—the weakness she had resisted showing, only unveiling it to her newfound family. She wasn't just asking; she was begging them. "Please…"

"Help me…"

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[Ding…. Spouse mission triggered]

[Prevent the Emperor, Cang Wanhe's execution.]

[Cang Wanhe is being framed by Cang Lin for the throne of the Blue Wind Empire, and he somehow succeeded, initiating plans to execute the Emperor.]

[Assist your future spouse, Cang Yue, in saving her father. Thwart the unjust execution by any means necessary.]

[Reward: 500,000 XP and 25,000 SP]

[Time remaining: 2 hours 53 minutes.]

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"Of course… we will," Yun Che reassured her, followed by nods from Mio and Kon. When Retsu hugged her this time, Cang Yue immediately crumbled under the weight of guilt and sadness.

She cried for a moment in Retsu's embrace, her helplessness and dread consuming her alongside her guilt.

"I am sorry… I am really sorry…. I shouldn't have said those things…" Cang Yue cried, realizing that in her moment of anger, she had uttered hurtful words. This was a turning point, a pledge to never repeat such words to her newfound family.

Both Mio and Retsu consoled the distraught princess while Yun Che began formulating plans on how to rescue the emperor. He needed to gather information, and he couldn't simply waltz into the city to prevent the immediate execution and risk failing the mission.

"I apologize for slapping you as well. I promise it won't happen again. But if it does…" Retsu spoke, smiling at Cang Yue, though an ominous aura seemed to emanate from that smile. Cang Yue made a mental note never to make Retsu angrier than she already was. She simply nodded, continuing to hug Retsu.

With that, Yun Che ushered them towards Little White. "Let's go. The execution is at noon. We can still stop it if we hurry."

And so, the race against time towards the Blue Wind Imperial City began.

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"Retsu-chan, I…" Cang Yue tried to apologize again, only for Retsu to pat her head.

"Little Yue… Please stop apologizing. All I did was get you back together. You are sinless, dear sister," Retsu spoke as she consoled Cang Yue in her arms. Mio joined in the group hug, adding her comforting presence to the mix.

"But… I said some hurtful things," Cang Yue attempted to apologize once more, especially to Yun Che, only for him to raise his hand to stop her.

"Just stop it, Little Yue. We all say the meanest things when anger takes over. Just don't make it a habit. Wouldn't want another one coming your way," he grinned, reassuring her.

Cang Yue nodded before calming herself down once more. Yun Che and Retsu were right. She vowed never to repeat such behavior again. While she couldn't take back what she said, she could make things right again.

"Father… Is this true? Are you selling us out? Or is elder brother plotting something?" Cang Yue couldn't help but speculate. She had always been wary of her two brothers, Cang Shuo and Cang Lin, as they were the rebellious ones in the family. While her other brothers minded their own business, the others were supporters of either one or the other and were mere cowards. None of her brothers cared for her father after her mother passed away.

Both had borrowed powers from sects, which went against the code of the Blue Wind Imperial Family. According to the travelers she had encountered earlier, her older brother Cang Lin had forcibly absorbed Cang Shuo's influence once the latter had perished. This allowed Cang Lin to gain power and seize control of the throne from her crippled father. It was just like the main story, only sooner.

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Imperial Palace of Blue Wind Empire, Blue Wind Imperial City

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The Blue Wind Imperial Palace's throne room stood as a testament to opulence and authority, with marble columns, golden intricacies, and a regal ebony throne on a raised dais. Bathed in a soft glow, the room exuded an air of authority, its walls draped in royal blue silk depicting the empire's history.

"Your highness, everything is prepared," one of the attendants spoke to a man dressed in gold robes seated on the throne of the empire. A man with brown hair donned in regal emperor robes, adorned with gold hair clips on his bangs. His intense green eyes conveyed a menacing expression, while his face was pale, adding an air of authority and seriousness to his demeanour. It was none other than the former First Prince from the Blue Wind Empire Imperial Family, Cang Lin.

Cang Lin, once a leader in a rebellion against his own father, the former emperor, was believed to fight for justice in the eyes of the people. However, his true motives were driven by greed and a lust for power. The rebellion gained momentum after his second brother's mysterious death, and Cang Lin seized the opportunity to overthrow the emperor, presenting himself as a champion of the people.

Upon claiming victory in a single night, Cang Lin, now adorned in golden robes, revealed his true nature. Instead of bringing positive change, he exploited his position for personal gain, accumulating wealth and suppressing dissent.

Today marks the execution of the former emperor, his own father, Cang Wanhe. The reason was to avoid the uprising of his former people and solidify Cang Lin's own rule on the empire. Now that his third brother is dead, he is supported by the second, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh prince, excluding Cang Yue, who is now nowhere to be seen. Moreover, the influence and the power gained by his third brother, Cang Shuo, allowed him to seize their influence and use them to ascend. Months and weeks of planning were enough to plan this very night to exert dominance as the Imperial Army took control of the palace in a single day.

The leader of the rebellion is now the new Emperor of the Blue Wind Empire.

"Good… very good," Cang Lin replied with a sinister tone. His father, however, the former emperor, knelt on the ground in chains. Despite everything he did, his son treated him like a prisoner without any sense of filial duty. The son he trained turned out to be a wolf in sheep's clothing.

"Lin'er, what in the world are you doing? Why are you doing this?" the prisoner and his own father, Cang Wanhe, spoke as the man now lost his allure as an emperor and dressed in prisoner rags. His old, bearded face was full of cuts and bruises as he was accused as a traitor, and today marked his execution.

"Taking what is mine, father. You are willing to sell this kingdom to the Dragon Empire? You think I would tolerate this?" Cang Lin spoke with disdain.

"I would never…" Cang Wanhe tried to retort, but Cang Lin instantly cut him off.

Cang Lin then proceeded to throw documents containing his father's handwriting, letters to the Emperor of the Dragon Empire that allowed the invasion without resistance in the future. Cang Wanhe widened his eyes, as he never wrote these documents and was sure they were forgery. "Lies… These documents indicate that you are selling us off. It even has your imperial seal. You are a traitor to us all." Cang Lin showed the documents in his hands, which bore the seal of the emperor. The documents were solid proof that Cang Wanhe was never able to retort, even if those documents were mere lies.

"Beat the traitor into submission before he can spout more lies," Cang Lin ordered, and the soldiers obeyed him, beating his father. The old man could only hold his arm for protection, as the soldiers who were once loyal to him were now betraying him. The advisors within the palace who once supported the emperor could only bow in defeat, seeing their former emperor being treated like dirt. They couldn't do anything now that a tyrant had ascended to the throne.

"Your highness, the Blue Wind Profound Palace is suppressed. We managed to subdue Dongfang Xiu and Qin Wushang. They were fighting back at first but under the strength of six Sky Profound Realm protectors. They are now suppressed and thrown in solitary," the attendant spoke nearby, showing no compassion as he witnessed his father being beaten.

Cang Lin merely dismissed him. "Good… despite what this old man did, they still refused to believe the evidence in front of them."

Looking at his beaten father, he issued a decree to the rest of the attendants, advisors, and soldiers. "Leave us."

Pulling the chain on his father's neck, Cang Lin dragged him closer, speaking with a sinister tone. "Besides, father, I know about your plans to give the Imperial sister, Cang Yue, the throne."

"This is what …..this is all…. about?" Cang Wanhe fought the urge to faint as internal pain and bruises threatened his consciousness.

"Indeed, I have the power and the charisma, and you chose a weakling of a sister to give the power of this empire to? She is nothing but a hatchling from a commoner who doesn't know the ways of the world, and do you think I would allow such a thing to happen?" Cang Lin threatened.

"How dare you.... Your third mother is much more of a woman than your mother and stepmother will ever be. She has the same right as every one of your mothers." Cang Wanhe retorted, only for Cang Lin to talk him back.

"You are the one who broke this family, father, the moment you decided to marry a commoner! And you wanted us to acknowledge Cang Yue, who has commoners' blood in her body, as our imperial sister? There is no way I'll let a commoner rule over us!" Cang Lin shouted.

"…." Cang Wanhe couldn't believe his ears as his son was willing to have him executed, all for the sake of choosing a better ruler? For a single seat of power? To the father, his daughter Cang Yue was the most suitable successor to the throne compared to his seven sons, who were just power-hungry good-for-nothings. They were willing to sacrifice innocent people for their ascension and borrow powers from one of the four great sects, which is against the rule of the Imperial Family. While the rest of his sons were cowards, Cang Lin was willing to take the mantle of ascension, and the rest of them supported him as long as the benefits were given.

"Don't forget that you favoured the third mother more than mother and second mother. I am sure Mother is pleased that I ascended to the throne. The second mother didn't take it well, but she was fine with it. Although she lost her son, the third brother. Both mothers supported my ascension." Cang Lin continued.

"…." Cang Wanhe couldn't retort, as he did favor his third wife more than the other wives, and that third wife was the one who bore him a daughter instead of a son. However, the third wife mysteriously died, and the daughter grew up without a mother. Surrounded by brothers and no mother figure, she somehow grew up to be a spectacular young woman but only born to be used by her brothers relentlessly. As he grew sick, he couldn't protect her forever and decided to enroll her in the Blue Wind Profound Palace, but she herself wanted to go to the New Moon City's New Moon Profound Palace.

"Men, throw this traitorous scum into the brig. Let the people know who the traitor of this empire is." Then, soldiers came before beginning to drag the former emperor away. Tears were obvious in his eyes as the people he trusted were now betraying him.

"Have you found my imperial sister?" Cang Lin turned towards the trembling advisors.

"No news, my king. It seems that she disappeared entirely." The advisors replied.

"It is good if she lost her life somewhere. She won't believe this evidence and will try to do anything to stop the execution. Monitor all exits and entrances, including from the sea. If she is sighted, then bring her to me." Cang Lin spoke with a sinister expression. Despite being on the throne, he was there because of the coup he launched after gaining the support of Cang Shuo's former followers. After his death, he assumed control, and miraculously, the Imperial Army, which once supported Cang Shuo, now supported him, making his coup easy.

Cang Yue remained neutral among her brothers, refusing to support any of them. Cang Lin, however, had sinister plans for her, intending to leverage her for political gain by arranging a marriage with the Xiao Sect. He aimed to force his influence on her, and if she resisted, he had other ruthless methods to bring her into submission.

Cang Wanhe could only stare at his traitorous son through swollen eyes. He had managed to secure the support of other crown princes after the death of his third son in the wilderness. He didn't mourn for his son's demise, considering both Cang Lin and the deceased prince as the ones who had violated the sacred rule of the Blue Wind Imperial Family by seeking support from external sects. Disappointed with all his sons, Cang Wanhe had chosen his youngest, Cang Yue, his only daughter, as the successor to the throne.

He regretted this decision as his sons had callously sold their sister to various sects for support, especially Cang Shuo, who had handed her over to the Burning Heaven Clan. Forced to flee, Cang Yue sought refuge in the New Moon Profound Palace.

"Yue'er, are you safe? If you are, please don't return here. Please... You are the most innocent among your siblings. Whatever you do, please don't come back. I don't wish to see you endure such hardships," Cang Wanhe weakly gritted his teeth as he was dragged back to his hellish cell.