The Great Martial Saint!

Chapter 985 The Princess's Heart, A Touch of Spring Breeze

Ji Shulan and Ji Qingyu arrived at the Bi Cang Palace, and after being informed multiple times, the news quickly spread.

Before long, an old servant with bowed head walked out of the Bi Cang Palace.

"Your Highness Shulan." The old servant greeted her with a bow and gestured for Ji Shulan to enter.

Ji Shulan nodded slightly, her long, light blue dress swaying gently as she walked step by step toward the main hall, appearing extremely calm.

Ji Qingyu, who was standing to the side, was about to enter with Ji Shulan, but was stopped by the old servant with lowered eyes.

"?"

Ji Qingyu looked surprised, tilting her head with a puzzled expression.

"Uncle Zhong, can't I go in?"

She has always been treated specially here; in earlier years, she could even enter directly without needing to be notified.

The security has been tight lately, but as long as she reports it, her grandfather, the Prince, will definitely see her.

But what about today?

"Princess, please wait here. The Prince only allows His Highness Shulan to enter," the old servant explained in a low voice, his tone firm.

"OK then."

Ji Qingyu nodded slightly, though she was a little puzzled, she didn't think much of it.

She came here to accompany her sister Shulan, so whether she got in or not wasn't that important.

It's just a bit of a pity that I won't be able to see my grandfather, the Prince.

I wonder how my grandfather, the Prince, is feeling after waking up this time?

Is it any better than before?

"Sister Shulan, I'll wait for you here." Ji Qingyu said softly, "Please give my regards to Grandfather Prince."

Ji Shulan didn't say much, but simply nodded slightly.

Her expression was calm, but his mood, like his long, light blue dress, swayed gently in the wind, even stirring a glimmer of hope.

This time, she requested an audience under the guise of inquiring about the emperor's health. She had heard that the great-grandson, Ji Shulan, had awakened and was requesting an audience. However, the message was primarily sent under the name of Ji Qingyu, with Ji Shulan accompanying her.

In terms of blood ties, Ji Qingyu was quite distant from his great-grandfather, belonging to the generation of Yunsun Ersun, and even further down the lineage. There were many generations between them.

However, in terms of the degree of affection shown to her, Qingyu's status is the most special one.

Within the Prince of Bicang's residence, Qingyu's status has always been exceptional. And all of this stems from the undisguised favor shown to her by the Emperor Gaozu.

This matter is already commonplace for all factions.

Many factions have analyzed this in detail. The reasons behind it are extremely complex if traced back. But from a common-sense perspective, Emperor Gaozu was old and often lamented the passage of time when recalling the past.

Such a scene naturally evokes a longing for youthful vitality. Qingyu, brimming with youthful energy, grew up under the care of her great-grandfather, their relationship being exceptionally close, unlike that of ordinary juniors.

The most important point is that it is a generally accepted fact in the Prince's mansion that Qingyu's birth month, day, and hour are the same as those of the Great Ancestor in the past.

This is why, among so many bloodline descendants, the great ancestor chose Qingyu to grow up under his care.

This is the final act of tenderness and kindness from an old man who has spent his life immersed in spiritual practice and political maneuvering, as his life comes to an end and the curtain falls on his life.

Even those who have weathered many storms will eventually look back on the past and reminisce about their glorious years when they grow old.

Even the most celestial beings, with a lifespan of 1,500 years, cannot ultimately escape the ravages of time and human nature, nor resist the erosion of time.

This is a place to reminisce about the past and to cherish beautiful hopes and aspirations.

In Emperor Gaozu's heart, Qingyu was just like that.

After analyzing the reasons, the various factions gradually understood and accepted the Emperor Gaozu's extraordinary favor towards Qingyu, and began to truly remember this junior and befriend him.

This reason is a profound understanding of human nature, and it is also the most urgent need for emotional support when one is old and frail and no longer has the glory of the past.

The reason she specifically summoned Qingyu today to pay respects to the Emperor Gaozu lies in this.

but.

Beneath Ji Shulan's calm expression lay a hidden excitement and hope deep within her heart.

The two men went together to greet each other, and Emperor Gaozu...

Was she the only one there?

What does this mean?

Ji Shulan was filled with emotion. Looking at the majestic Bi Cang Palace in front of her, she took a deep breath and then stepped inside.

The struggle for the throne hinges on this one move.

Ji Qingyu and the others waited outside the Bi Cang Palace, feeling rather bored.

As the Prince of Bicang's residence, the absolute center of power, everyone who comes here must maintain absolute reverence.

Especially under such imposing armor, everyone should feel a sense of awe.

However, she had lived here since childhood and was very familiar with the surrounding scenery. The imposing armor and the sharp-edged soldiers were nothing out of the ordinary for her.

Therefore, this situation did not make her feel anything, let alone uncomfortable.

She gently fiddled with her hair, waiting somewhat boredly for Sister Shulan to come out.

"Why is it taking so long?"

The young princess looked up at the sky and felt a little bored.

After a long while, Ji Shulan finally emerged from the Bi Cang Palace.

Ji Shulan wore a cloud-blue long dress, her skin was fair and delicate, and her expression was unclear.

"Sister Shulan," the young princess greeted her with a smile.

"Qingyu."

"How is Grandpa Prince?" the young princess asked, inquiring about the topic she was concerned about.

"Emperor Gaozu is recovering well, and his complexion is much better than before."

"That's good." The young princess smiled broadly, her apricot-yellow dress making her look even more youthful and radiant.

She spoke with a smile, but as she continued, she noticed that Sister Shulan wasn't responding much. Curious, she looked over and saw that Sister Shulan seemed lost in thought.

"Sister Shulan, what's wrong?"

"It's nothing." Ji Shulan smiled. "I'm thinking about whether I should go see your Uncle Chen again."

"What Uncle Chen!" the little princess said angrily. "I was just joking."

"I know, our little Qingyu was just joking."

"Sister Shulan~"

"."

The two chatted and laughed as they left the Bi Cang Palace.

It wasn't until the afternoon that the two entered the banquet together, and only then did the young princess leave.

In the deserted courtyard, Ji Shulan stood quietly, two lines of clear tears streaming down her face.

Tears welled in her eyes, and her voice trembled slightly as she said, "Emperor Gaozu."

Inside the Bi Cang Palace, in the sleeping quarters.

"Having rejected the prince's proposal and now knowing his true intentions, will he regret it?"

An old man, wearing a feather fan and a silk turban, stood not far from the prince's bed, exuding an air of commanding authority.

"Maybe."

Prince Bi Cang lay half-reclined on the bed, gazing at the hazy curtains in the distance, his eyes somewhat clouded, yet also deep and unfathomable.

Whether he regrets it or not is irrelevant. He's just a pawn; he should just do his duty. Whether he accepts or refuses, it won't change his fate as a pawn.

The realm of celestial beings is ultimately insignificant compared to the grand scheme of the throne.

"The Prince is insightful about world affairs and strategizes for the world; the Prince is wise and brilliant."

“Elder Dou.” Prince Bi Cang withdrew his gaze and looked at the old man beside him: “We have known each other since we were humble beginnings and have been friends for many years. There is no need for such formalities between us. I am old and there are many things that I can no longer see clearly or understand. Things may not always turn out as I have predicted.”

As he spoke, a complex expression appeared on the face of the Prince of Bicang, a mixture of resentment and relief.

"After I die, I will entrust the affairs of the Bicang Prince's Mansion to Elder Dou. Shulan may not understand this." The Bicang Prince sighed with regret, his expression wistful.

"Rest assured, Your Highness, I will certainly not fail in my mission," the old man said solemnly.

"With your words, I am relieved."

Have all the necessary tasks been completed?

"Everything is ready; we await the Prince's instructions." The old man gently waved his feather fan, his expression solemn.

"Alright, let's get ready to begin. In half a month, at the Bi Cang Ancestral Land, we will determine the successor."

Prince Bi Cang's eyes were cloudy, with a trace of lingering affection and a deep sense of urgency in them.

His time

Running out.

In the Prince of Bicang's mansion, factional infighting and power struggles abound, but Chen Ping'an's life has returned to peace.

He waited quietly for news from Mo Sidao, and for the Heavenly Meteor Frost Star Blade to be successfully refined.

These days, his main focus is naturally on the Guanghan Sword Technique, and secondly on studying secret techniques and perfecting his skills.

During this time, he also went out to see if he could purchase the necessary materials for refining the Cold Water and the Hundred Poisons Water.

Unfortunately, while some of the additives for the antidote were obtained, little was gained in other areas.

However, the trip he took along the way allowed Chen Ping'an to learn a lot of information about the Bicang County Prince's Mansion.

The discussions mainly revolve around the struggle for the throne, and the information discussed is inextricably linked to several popular crown princes.

Currently, Ji Xuanmo is the most popular and ranks first among all the crown princes.

Amid a series of crackdowns, Ji Dongqing's influence has greatly diminished, even falling behind Ji Shulan, who ranked second.

As for Ji Shulan, although she ranked second, the gap between her and the faction behind Ji Xuanmo was enormous.

Given the current situation, it seems that Ji Xuanmo's succession to the throne of Bi Cang is the will of the people.

The people Chen Ping'an had previously contacted, such as Aoki Fugong, Liang Xiaoxian, and Ji Changkong, were among the supporters of Ji Xuanmo's faction.

As time went by, the situation in Bicang became increasingly clear.

During this time, Ji Shulan came to see him once, accompanied by Ji Qingyu.

After a few pleasantries, everything seemed normal, but as the conversation deepened, Ji Shulan made it clear that she wanted to speak with Chen Ping'an alone.

Ji Qingyu was clearly prepared for this. She blinked and, with her skirt swaying, left early.

In a short while, only Ji Shulan and Chen Ping'an remained in the entire Qingchi Courtyard.

"Your Highness Shulan, please speak frankly."

Chen Ping'an remained calm, as if he had already anticipated Ji Shulan's words.

And indeed, just as Chen Ping'an had guessed, Ji Shulan had come to win him over.

It's not just about winning him over in the literal sense, but about hoping he'll base his stance on reality and give his full support.

It is hoped that he will do his best to support her in the upcoming competition for the throne and help her ascend to the position of Prince.

If you succeed, you will be richly rewarded.

Ji Shulan spoke with heartfelt sincerity, her radiant skin faintly glowing.

It must be said that Ji Shulan possesses a special temperament, and her bone structure also contains a unique heroic spirit. However, the touch of pink and white under her eyelashes adds a touch of girlish delicacy to her.

The combination of these two elements makes her look incredibly appealing.

If we take into account her status as the Princess of Bi Cang, then...

Such temptation is undoubtedly fatal.

When the topic of generous rewards came up, Ji Shulan was frank and said that whatever she had, he could choose whatever he wanted.

Although his gestures were not explicitly stated, the meaning behind his words was extremely clear.

If Chen Ping'an is interested, then it is herself who is also among these generous gifts.

Given her status as the princess of Bi Cang, her demeanor and attitude are so compelling that anyone who judges her would have to say she's willing to give it up.

If Ji Shulan were to ascend to the position of Prince in the future, his status and position would be extraordinary.

With the support of the resources provided by the Bi Cang Prince's Mansion, and her natural talent for cultivation, she has a real chance of reaching the Great Cultivation Realm in the future.

The promise of a major overhaul in the future, along with the generous repayment of her own kindness, is a bargaining chip of considerable importance.

During the conversation, Chen Ping'an also glanced at the cultivation information on the panel, especially the cultivation technique whose progress had been stalled since Gu Qingchan left.

In the end, however, Chen Ping'an rejected Ji Shulan's attempts to win him over.

This rejection is the result of comprehensive consideration and rational analysis.

Firstly, what Ji Shulan wanted to win over was not just verbal promises, but real action on crucial matters.

Secondly, although Ji Shulan has provided her with great convenience, she still needs to stand shoulder to shoulder with her in terms of attitude. This includes after the dust has settled on this power struggle. This courting is not a short-term or temporary move, but a deep entanglement of mutual interests.

In return, Ji Shulan could also share a portion of her profits with Chen Ping'an.

Thirdly, and most importantly, Chen Ping'an could provide assistance in a critical situation at the Bicang Prince's Mansion someday in the future.

This timeframe has far-reaching benefits and is not as simple as a favor or two price tags.

Although Chen Ping'an also expected a generous reward, he ultimately refused the offer, which came with many restrictions.

"I see."

Ji Shulan's expression was calm, revealing neither disappointment nor any other emotion.

Maintaining her composure and demeanor, she exchanged a few words with Chen Ping'an before leaving.

It wasn't until they reached outside Yunxu Mountain that Ji Shulan's expression truly changed.

She hadn't expected that even after offering her most sincere offer, including herself, she still couldn't persuade Mang Dao to stand firmly on her side and forge a bond of mutual benefit.

This attitude and answer, for her, was not just a simple rejection; it also brought with it a sense of loss and resentment.

Is it

In Chen Ping'an's eyes, she was not even as good as those beautiful women outside.

Are they not as good as the younger generation who care about the family?

Since she was in the Prince's mansion, all her choices were based on considerations of power, including the bargaining chips in this situation, as well as the potential conditions for her to have a night with Chen Ping'an.

If both parties are interested in each other and the experience is good, then a one-night stand might lead to a long-term relationship.

On this basis, it is not impossible for their interests to become deeply intertwined, and even to the point of becoming intimate confidants.

If she can successfully succeed to the throne, given her appearance, there is at least a 60% chance that she will be able to ascend to the position of Grand Master.

The prospect of having a future Celestial Master as a partner or mistress would be an immense temptation, even for a rising star like Mang Dao.

This was her prior consideration, and it's why she came here with such confidence.

But as it turns out, she was wrong about everything.

"Wild Blade"

Ji Shulan's black hair flowed freely, and she wore a cloud-blue long dress, looking elegant and beautiful.

Mangdao's rejection not only prevented her from achieving her expectations, but also hurt her pride.

Not just anyone is someone she can consider. Her consideration of Mangdao is also based on his brilliant talent. With Mangdao's talent, there is hope that he will be with her in the future.

Supporting each other, we embark on the journey together.

Although the cause of this matter is complicated by too many interests, if they all ascend to the site for major repairs in the future, it will be a remarkable story.

But now.

All of these ideas are nothing but wishful thinking.

"Since that's the case..."

Ji Shulan's gaze sharpened, a resolute glint appearing deep within her eyes.

Whoosh!

A streak of blue light pierced the air, and Ji Shulan's figure vanished into the horizon. (End of Chapter)