The Great Martial Saint!

Chapter 1007 Hidden Dragon Update, Family Reunion

Chen Ping'an had an excellent experience during his trip to the Wei River.

Before parting, he left Wanjun with enough resources and spiritual objects to sustain her cultivation for a long time.

These spiritual objects were of mediocre quality to him, but to Wan Jun, they were absolutely invaluable elixirs on her path of cultivation.

In addition, during the few days of cultivation, Chen Ping'an intentionally provided assistance, and with the nourishment of her cultivation realm, Wan Jun benefited greatly.

Under such circumstances, it wouldn't be particularly difficult for her to reach the Grandmaster level, or even the Martial Arts Grandmaster.

In fact, at Chen Ping'an's current level, with the foundation of a Celestial Being cultivator, supporting one person at all costs, aside from the difficulty of guaranteeing a Martial Celestial Being level, all other realms below that level have a chance of being achieved.

In martial arts training, success or failure is relative in terms of difficulty.

There are many conveniences in this world, but these conveniences often come at an extremely high price.

Wan Jun herself was naturally gifted, and with his help and assistance, her progress in all aspects of cultivation was naturally incredibly rapid.

However rapid the change, it still needs time to be digested.

It used to take him nearly a month to travel from Weishui County to Canglong Prefecture, but today, he arrived in Canglong Prefecture in less than half a day.

Having just arrived in Canglong Prefecture, he also heard the news of the updated Hidden Dragon Ranking.

"Hidden Dragon Renewal?"

Chen Ping'an looked surprised, but judging from the time, it seemed that it was indeed time for the update.

In the past, a list that would have excited him and made him pay attention to it would now only hold a lukewarm interest upon hearing of its update.

While not entirely without interest, I no longer have the same expectations as before.

After a moment's thought, before visiting the Gu family, he purchased the latest issue of the Hidden Dragon Ranking from a shop called Yifangbaoge in Canglong Prefecture.

"Please take care, distinguished guest."

The manager of Ruyi Pavilion, having just completed a transaction, was in a good mood after seeing off a customer with a pleasant expression.

He turned around casually and saw a young figure walking by in the distance. From the back, the figure seemed somewhat familiar.

"This is."

He blinked, a hint of doubt appearing in his eyes.

Just as he was about to take a closer look, he discovered that the figure had suddenly vanished from the spot, disappearing without a trace.

His eyes widened in astonishment, as if he had seen a ghost.

"That was just now."

Returning to the familiar place, Chen Ping'an was in a good mood.

He had visited Canglong Prefecture City more than once or twice. But this time, the experience was different.

He didn't linger in the city for too long; he gathered his thoughts and headed towards the Gu family's residence.

As he approached the Gu family, he did not conceal his aura. That extraordinary aura quickly alerted Gu Zhengnan.

"Safety."

Gu Zhengnan was dressed in a long robe, with a strong expression and sharp eyes.

"I've been waiting for you to come."

Gu Zhengnan's voice was filled with joy.

"Elder Zheng Nan," Chen Ping'an said with a smile, cupping his hands in greeting, his expression gentle.

"Come in, Ping An, please come in. I have prepared wine and drinks. We must have a good drink today."

Gu Zhengnan smiled and welcomed Chen Ping'an into the inner courtyard of the Gu family.

Given their level of skill, if they didn't want to, they naturally wouldn't disturb anyone.

The aura emanating from Chen Ping'an's arrival was so strong that only a few members of the Gu family sensed it.

However, what most clansmen could personally feel was that the family atmosphere today was particularly different, seemingly exceptionally festive. This festive atmosphere differed from the upcoming Heavenly Ceremony held by the clan; it was more like a grand ceremony to welcome distinguished guests.

However, most of the clansmen did not know who this distinguished guest was.

"Ping An, how long do you plan to stay in Canglong this time?"

Gu Zhengnan's expression was naturally warm, and there was not a trace of distance in his tone.

Strictly speaking, they had only met recently, and the time between them was only a few months at most.

These few months might be considered neither long nor short for Chen Ping'an. But for Gu Zhengnan, who has cultivated for hundreds of years, it is a sufficiently short time.

The two had met not long ago, so there were naturally no problems in their conversation.

"If there are no unforeseen circumstances, it should take about half a month," Chen Ping'an answered truthfully without hiding anything.

"Half a month." Gu Zhengnan nodded slightly: "That's a bit short."

However, with you stationed in Beishan, handling countless affairs daily, you truly cannot escape.

Chen Ping'an remained calm, though his face felt slightly flushed, and gave a brief reply.

"By the way, where is Elder Qingchan?"

Chen Ping'an inquired about Gu Qingchan's whereabouts at the opportune moment. Logically speaking, when he arrived at the Gu family, Gu Qingchan should have greeted him together with Gu Zhengnan.

“Elder Qingchan made some progress recently and is currently in seclusion. However, judging by the time, she should be emerging from seclusion soon,” Gu Zhengnan replied, a hint of joy in his expression.

Nothing could make him happier than progress in his cultivation or an increase in his family's wealth.

"I see." Chen Ping'an nodded slightly.

Although his spiritual perception could reach the entire Gu family, he refrained from doing so out of consideration for their relationship, only reacting within a small area.

As the two talked, they landed in a main hall. Outside the hall was a clear pond and pavilion, where fish swam and teemed with life.

"By the way, Ping An, I haven't congratulated you yet. This year's Qianlong team has once again achieved glory, ranking among the top ten."

Gu Zhengnan poured Chen Ping'an a cup of spirit wine, then stood up and chatted with him.

"Elder Zheng Nan, you flatter me. In just half a year, I have not only failed to make progress but have actually regressed. How can you call this a glorious achievement?" Chen Ping'an waved his hand and gave a self-deprecating smile upon hearing this.

He naturally saw his ranking on the latest Hidden Dragons list. Compared to his previous seventh place, he had dropped one place to eighth.

"Ping An, you are mistaken." Gu Zhengnan flicked his sleeves and raised his cup in a toast: "The world is vast and boundless, with countless geniuses across the four borders. Ping An, you have led the best of your generation and ranked among the top ten of the Hidden Dragons, which is truly remarkable. You are a choice of the times. With such talent, how can you be considered a disgrace?"

Ranking fluctuations are normal. With your talent, it's easy for you to make a comeback and surpass them one day.

"Then I'll accept Elder Zheng Nan's kind words." Chen Ping'an readily agreed with a smile and returned the toast to Gu Zheng Nan.

Chen Pingan drank a cup of wine, the taste refreshing and mellow.

He couldn't help but praise it.

"good."

"This wine comes from Beihai and is a specialty of Yun Island. When drinking it, one feels as if one is amidst clouds and mist, and then one can see the sun through the clouds," Gu Zhengnan introduced with a smile.

"Cloud Island?"

Chen Ping'an's heart stirred, and information about Beihai Cloud Island surfaced in his mind.

Yun Island, located in the central waters of Beihai, is one of the most important islands in the Beihai area. Outside the island is a precipitous waterfall and other wondrous celestial phenomena. Entering the island feels like being amidst mountains and sea, with clouds and mist swirling around it, hence the name Yun Island (Cloud Island).

It is worth mentioning that the Yunhai Chamber of Commerce, one of the seven core chambers of commerce of the Beihai Business Alliance, has its headquarters located on Yun Island. Most of the industries on the island belong to the Yunhai Chamber of Commerce.

The Beihai Business Alliance also has a significant presence on the island, making it one of the highest-ranking islands in Beihai.

The island is vast, far exceeding the boundaries of any single region.

Legend has it that Yun Jun, one of the two Yun Lei lords, lived on Yun Island when he was young.

"It is indeed fine wine." Chen Ping'an's emotions shifted, and he praised with a smile.

Seeing Chen Ping'an's praise, Gu Zhengnan felt honored and immediately got up to pour Chen Ping'an a glass as well.

"Since it's good wine, Ping An, please try more."

"Then... I'll gladly accept your offer." Chen Ping'an smiled and drank his cup.

The two men chatted and drank, creating a wonderful atmosphere.

During the conversation, Gu Zhengnan naturally inquired about Bi Cang.

Previously, during the power struggle and the battle for the throne in Bi Cang, Chen Ping'an was in Bi Cang Prefecture.

Gu Zhengnan's question was reasonable. After all, as the overlord of the Bicang region, the royal bloodline was divided, and every move of the Bicang Prince's Mansion would affect the situation of the region.

The power structure, influence, and future direction of the Prince of Bicang's mansion.

For Canglong Prefecture and the Gu family, this was crucial intelligence that they urgently needed to obtain.

Faced with Gu Zhengnan's questioning, Chen Ping'an did not hide anything and told him everything, especially the important parts of the Bi Cang Prince's Mansion, such as the current situation of the mansion and the direction of future plans.

"I never expected that the Prince of Bicang would ultimately choose Ji Qingyu." Gu Zhengnan sighed, somewhat incredulous.

From the perspective of power succession, the choice made by the old Prince of Bicang is an illogical move.

Normally speaking, if we ignore the influence of a woman's status, the best choice would be to hand over the Bi Cang Prince's Mansion to Ji Shulan.

If we consider that a woman's body and the unchanging nature of her bloodline inheritance are taken into account, then it would be appropriate to choose one of Ji Dongqing and Ji Xuanmo.

Should it be given to Ji Qingyu?

Gu Zhengnan couldn't understand it.

With such a large family business entrusted to her, can she protect it?

Gu Zhengnan expressed concern about this.

If the Bicang Prince's Mansion is powerful and influential, it is certainly not a good thing for the various forces within the Bicang territory. However, if the Bicang Prince's Mansion is too weak, it is not good news for them either.

Bi Cang's weakness has attracted outside interference, leading to various conflicts and an unpredictable situation.

“If the Prince of Bicang is so fond of you, then you have misjudged him, Ping An.”

Gu Zhengnan was referring to the fact that Chen Ping'an had previously expressed his support for Ji Shulan, believing that she was more suitable to succeed as the Prince of Bicang.

This matter has spread far and wide in recent days, with the conclusion of the Bi Cang incident.

The fact that someone is supporting a former rival in front of the new leader is by no means a good thing.

Especially now that the situation in Bi Cang has settled and Ji Qingyu has succeeded to the throne, knowing about this matter, although he cannot act rashly due to Chen Ping'an's influence, his likes and dislikes are now completely clear.

This understanding is clear even to ordinary people.

Gu Zhengnan's mention of it at this moment naturally implied a concern.

However, if Gu Zhengnan knew the inside story, he probably wouldn't think about it.

The reason Chen Ping'an stepped forward to support Ji Shulan in the past was all due to Ji Qingyu's deal. The deal came first, and the statement followed; with this cause and effect, the inside story is probably different from what most people in the world think.

Chen Ping'an did not elaborate on this further.

Gu Zhengnan, however, subtly expressed regret that Ji Shulan had not succeeded to the throne.

In his view, Ji Shulan was indeed the most suitable successor.

Years ago, when he acted on behalf of the Gu family, he had a brief encounter with Ji Shulan in Bicang Prefecture.

From all his experiences, he had a very good impression of Ji Shulan.

And with that talent, if she can successfully succeed to the throne, there is a very high chance that she will be able to enter the realm of great cultivation.

"What a pity," Gu Zhengnan sighed.

My mind drifts back to the distant memories of our past meetings, their voices and smiles.

Chen Ping'an sipped his drink, offering no comment on Gu Zhengnan's words.

However, strictly speaking, Ji Shulan...

It's truly a pity.

In the prime of his life, he lived in seclusion in his ancestral homeland, and unless something unexpected happened, he would never leave.

Such a choice, if not made out of utter despair, would likely not be made lightly.

At Ji Shulan's age, placed among the celestial beings, she was like a beautiful young woman in her prime, at the height of her life.

Isn't it a pity to be trapped in one place like this?

The more Chen Ping'an cultivates, the clearer he understands that the way of heaven and man lies in the space between heaven and earth. If one is always confined to one place, it will probably be detrimental to cultivation.

Therefore, even the top cultivators of clans and the supreme masters of sects would often go out to exchange ideas with fellow cultivators and travel the world when they had free time.

"Now that Bi Cang is weak, it is probably very difficult to make a decision about the external situation."

During the conversation, Gu Zhengnan expressed his concerns about the situation in Bicang.

Although the reign of the King of Bicang has come to an end, the final choice for the throne is a young girl who has never even set foot in the mortal realm. Even with the many backup plans of the old King of Bicang, she will likely be at a disadvantage in the struggle for territory.

The surrounding territories, especially the ancient territory of the Yuezhi, are ambitious and eager to create a glorious future. Under such circumstances, how could they possibly remain indifferent?

"At that time, with Gu Yue's growing influence, Ping An, your situation in Beishan will probably not be ideal," Gu Zhengnan said worriedly.

Previously, Chen Ping'an had a falling out with the Gu Yue clan, and the incident of killing the young master of Gu Yue was still fresh in his mind. Now that such a change has occurred in Bi Cang, if Gu Yue's power and influence were to increase in the future, would the Gu Yue clan let such an opportunity pass by?

Even if, out of consideration for the Zhenfu Division, they don't openly engage in life-or-death struggles, the methods used behind the scenes will likely be more intense than imagined.

Gu Zhengnan's assessment largely aligned with Chen Ping'an's views; they were not optimistic about the overall situation in the surrounding area. However, similar concerns were also present.

"It's alright." Chen Ping'an smiled calmly. "We'll just deal with whatever comes our way."

Gu Zhengnan wanted to say a few more words, saying that while there was still time, they should make a decision as soon as possible, because once some things happen, it will be too late.

However, seeing Chen Ping'an's calm and composed expression, he swallowed the words he wanted to say.

"Ping An will surely make his own decision."

The young man before me has walked a legendary path with every step he has taken.

The road ahead seemed treacherous, but each time he managed to turn misfortune into good fortune and break through the chaos.

He must have considered these things long ago.

Gu Zhengnan felt relieved and his expression returned to normal.

Chen Ping'an and Gu Zhengnan talked for a long time. He originally intended to visit Gu Tianren, the patriarch of the Gu family, but upon hearing that Gu Tianren was in seclusion, he immediately abandoned the idea.

"Seclusion?"

Chen Ping'an had a general idea of ​​what was going on regarding Gu Tianren's seclusion. He feared it might be related to the gifts Gu Tianren had given him previously.

If those items truly work, Gu Tianren...

Chen Ping'an's gaze sharpened, and a thought surfaced in his mind.

Gu Tianren was in seclusion, so I was unable to visit him. Now that night has fallen, our conversation is coming to an end.

Seeing that Gu Zhengnan seemed hesitant to speak, Chen Ping'an smiled gently and said, "Elder Zhengnan, please speak freely."

Upon hearing this, Gu Zhengnan's expression relaxed slightly, and he hesitated before saying, "Ping An, about the matter of Qingcheng, is it..." (End of Chapter)