Chapter 1661 - 233 - 240

Chapter 233: Equal

Translator: DavidT Editor: DavidT , Rock

Qian ShuiRou's eyes flashed with a chilly gaze as she said with cupped fists, "Brother Ling, have a safe journey!"

Just as she cupped her fists, a dense wave of internal energy was sent out towards Ling Tian's back. In the short meal they had, Ling Tian had been on the attack with her in defense, and she was already extremely depressed from that. However, she never imagined that Ling Tian would take his leave so quickly after just ending their conversation! This made Qian ShuiRou, who wanted to find a chance to retaliate, even more depressed. Ever since she was young, she had been complimented as a peerless talent and had never suffered from such a miserable defeat before. Now that she saw Ling Tian leaving, she couldn't help but send out a probing strike!

Even if she were to lose in the scholarly arts, she must definitely make Ling Tian lose face with her martial arts!

Ling Tian continued to walk gracefully as though he didn't feel anything, but Ling Chen who was behind Ling Tian turned behind with a smile and flicked her sleeves, "How could we trouble young noble Qian to send us off? We thank you for your kind intentions and may young noble return!" A soft inner Qi was sent out from her sleeves, like the gentle waves crashing into the beach's shore!

When both the soft waves of inner Qi collided, not a single commotion could be seen and the waves were completely canceled out. However, the rain surrounding them disappeared completely! The rain surrounding Qian ShuiRou turned into fog while the rain surrounding Ling Chen turned into ice! This exchange ended without any winner or loser!

Qian ShuiRou's clothes fluttered slightly and her body shook slightly. She then couldn't help but look up at Ling Chen with shock in her eyes, together with elation from finding a worthy opponent.

After the two waves of inner Qi collided, Ling Chen left with Ling Tian without looking back. A chuckle could then be heard from the curtain of rain as both Ling Chen and Ling Tian melded into the scenery and could no longer be seen.

"Young… noble, are you alright? So he is Ling Tian? But young noble, why did you let him go? Isn't he one of our targets this round? Why didn't young noble…" The lady dressed as a man asked with doubt.

"Haiz!" Qian ShuiRou let out a long sigh, "No wonder!" However, she didn't bother answering the question and entered into deep thought with a frown on her face. I really never expected that Ling Tian was such an extraordinary individual! It seems like our goals may not be achieved this time!

Who would have thought that a random maid by his side would have such exceptional martial arts! Looking at the direction Ling Tian and Ling Chen disappeared off to, Qian ShuiRou remembered how Ling Tian seemed to have emphasized greatly on the words 'brother Qian' with a meaningful tone. Qian ShuiRou then couldn't help but mutter, "Don't tell me… has he already seen through my disguise? That can't be right. Are his abilities really above mine?"

Thinking about this, her brows suddenly straightened as her eyes glowed with a majestic glare, "It can't be! Even if Ling Tian is from Beyond Heavens, I don't believe that he can triumph over me! I must definitely kill him!"

"How was she?" Ling Tian turned behind and asked Ling Chen while wiping a raindrop off her face.

"Very strong! Really very strong!" Ling Chen's eyes were solemn, "From that small exchange, Chen'er is certain that her inner strength is definitely above mine. I was only able to dissipate the force of the collision by taking a few steps back. However, she was able to receive 70% of my full strength without even moving a step."

Ling Tian nodded his head and said, "Let the Violent Wind Gang pay attention to these two individuals. However, they must not get into a conflict with either of them. That lass's martial arts aren't weak and Ling San wouldn't be a match for her. In fact, if the two of you were to engage in a fair fight, you wouldn't be her opponent either!"

"Lass?" Ling Chen questioned, "That Qian ShuiRou is a lady?"

Ling Tian nodded his head and laughed, "A pair of lasses!" he then continued, "My Chen'er should have more confidence in herself. If she wasn't a girl, how could she shift her gaze away from you so easily?"

"Young noble… you are really too naughty!" Ling Chen's face turned red as she hammered Ling Tian, "You make it sound as though I'm a…" as she said that, she didn't want to finish her sentence and continued hammering Ling Tian, "You're too naughty, too naughty!" At the same time, she felt unresigned in her heart, Am I really weaker than her?

As both of them walked back to the Ling residence, Long Xiang who was here to pay Ling Ran a visit had already returned back to the palace. Knowing that Old Madam Ling was with Ling Ran, Ling Tian took the name list and went to find her.

Seeing Ling Tian arrive, Princess JiaoYue's face turned red as she felt an indescribable feeling in her heart. Thus, she hid behind Old Madam Ling.

Old Madam Ling and Chu Ting'er were chatting happily with a look of joy on their faces. Even Ling Ran, who was currently on the bed, was full of joy with her face red from elation.

Hearing that Ling Tian had come in, Chu Ting'er let out a dissatisfied snort and asked, "Where did you go? When the emperor summoned you just now, you were actually nowhere to be found! You are really capable now, right?!"

Ling Tian replied with an 'err' and didn't say anything else. However, Ling Ran who was on the bed chuckled, "It's okay for a young man to love playing around. How is this a big matter? Since when did Tian'er stay at home anyway. Sister-in-law, you are controlling Tian'er too strictly. Besides, the emperor is Tian'er's uncle, and he definitely won't get angry at Ling Tian. Furthermore, Tian'er performed a great merit yesterday, and the emperor has yet to reward him."

Ling Tian responded with a smile, "How can it be considered a merit to save my own aunt? It is only right for me to do so."

Ling Ran responded with a smile. Before she got a chance to say anything, Chu Ting'er had already spoken, "Tian'er, do you know? The emperor just made a promise that if your aunt's child is a boy, he would be made the next ruler of Sky Bearing. In other words, the crown prince. Your aunt is going bonkers from the excitement."

Ling Ran's face turned red as a look of worry could be seen on her face, "We still don't know the gender of the child. Who knows if this child will be a boy?"

Ling Tian was stunned for a moment, "What about the present crown prince?"

Chu Ting'er then responded as though it was only logical, "Of course his title will be revoked. How can a b*st*rd like him be worthy to run Sky Bearing? Tian'er, to think a little idiot like you will ask such a simple question."

A chilly glare could be seen in his eyes as Ling Tian responded with a simple 'oh'. At the same time, he thought to himself, Just what is Long Xiang planning to do? Don't tell me…

Ling Ran then turned to Old Madam Ling and said, "Mother, now that I am in such a state, I will not be able to serve the emperor for a year at the very least. Furthermore, the emperor has many other consorts, and… Now that the emperor finally decided to make such a promise, I am afraid that there will be many changes in the palace without me around."

Old Madam Ling couldn't help but glance at Ling Tian as she asked, "Then what do you think we should do?"

Ling Ran then helped herself up and said, "Just now, the emperor was talking to me and said that he wanted to choose another batch of beautiful ladies to bring into the palace. After thinking about it, why shouldn't our Ling residence send a few beautiful ladies into the palace as well? If they can gain the emperor's favor, then our Ling Family will also have backing in the days when I am not present. I wonder what mother thinks about that?"

Before Old Madam Ling got a chance to speak, Ling Tian had already asked, "Who does aunt think we should send?" Ling Tian's words were slightly chilly. Ever since Ling Ran talked about choosing a batch of beautiful ladies into the palace, Ling Tian understood what Long Xiang was thinking about. A ball of fire then burned in his heart!

Old Madam Ling quickly turned around and sent an eye signal to Ling Ran, telling her to stop talking about the matter. However, Ling Ran didn't notice it and replied excitedly, "The way I see it, the few ladies in sister-in-law's place aren't too bad. Especially the one from Tian'er's courtyard…"

The moment she said that the faces of everyone present turned ugly. Especially Princess JiaoYue's face turned completely pale! Princess JiaoYue had heard Ling Tian proclaim clearly in the palace, "She is my wife!" Now that she heard what her mother had said, she knew that things would go wrong for sure! In the past, she didn't know about Ling Tian's strength and thought that he was no more than a silkpants. However, she now knew that Ling Tian had exceptional strength and vaguely seemed to have the intention of ruling the world! For her mother to say something like that, it was extremely inappropriate!

The next moment, the atmosphere in the room grew tense to the point where it was difficult for one to even breath. Ling Ran couldn't help but stop in shock as she looked at everyone's face with worry in her heart.

Old Madam Ling and Chu Ting'er had long known that Ling Tian and Ling Chen were both mutually in love with each other. From the very start, the both of them had already tacitly accepted Ling Chen. If not for the fact that Ling Chen's status was far too low, Ling Chen's appearance, character, and talents were more than suitable to be Ling Tian's wife! But despite that, both Old Madam Ling and Chu Ting'er already saw Ling Chen as someone who belonged to Ling Tian! In other words, the Ling Family had already acknowledged Ling Chen as their daughter-in-law!

Now that Ling Ran mentioned this issue, how would their faces not be ugly? When Ling Ran mentioned this matter, Old Madam Ling already had the heart to stop her. However, before she had the chance to do anything, Ling Ran had already babbled on.

Without waiting for anyone else to say anything, Ling Tian suddenly burst out laughing. However, his laughter was laced with dense killing intent, making the hair stand on everyone present!

"Aunt, is this your idea? Or is this that… emperor's idea?" Ling Tian asked with a smile. While he was still smiling, a malevolent glare could be seen in his eyes! As Princess JiaoYue snuck a glance at Ling Tian, she felt a chill run down her spine and felt as though she was in a freezer! Her whole body inevitably felt like it was freezing up.

Chapter 234: To Flip in Fury

Translator: chuchutrain Editor: DavidT , Rock

Seeing Ling Tian's expression, Ling Ran could not help but feel that the situation was getting out of hand, and could only cautiously reply, "This… isn't this the same? No matter whose idea it is, this matter… isn't a bad thing, right? It should be a good thing for our Ling Family!"

Ling Tian laughed out loudly, and cut it short as his face grew even frostier, "If that's Aunt's idea, then I'll pretend I never heard it; but if the idea is from Long Xiang, hehehe… then he must be tired of living! A small emperor of a tiny empire, he's akin to an egg! For me to deal with him is as easy as slaughtering a chicken!" Ling Tian spat out ruthlessly, his voice laced with disdain.

The moment the words came out of his mouth, the entire chambers went deathly silent!

Ling Tian actually called out the name of the Emperor in front of the Royal Consort and Princess? And he did not even attempt to hide it? Especially the sentence after that, was he tired of living? What kind of crime was that?!

"What kind of guts do you have to say such things?!" A wave of anger rushed through Ling Ran. Looking at the nephew she had pampered since young she was intensly angry. Her face had turned red as she shouted, "How dare you actually utter such blasphemous words! Are you not afraid that our entire family would be annihilated?!" At the side, Princess JiaoYue stared at Ling Tian with frightened eyes, thoroughly cowed by his presence!

"Annihilating our entire family?" A crazed bout of laughter came from Ling Tian's mouth. "HAHAHA…."

Chu Ting'er shared a glance with the Old Madam, both revealing helpless glances; they had long expected such a response from Ling Tian. Chu Ting'er hurriedly placated Ling Ran, "Sister, Ling Chen is no ordinary person. Other than possessing great martial arts, she has also long become Tian'er concubine! When we went over to save you, Chen'er also put in a lot of effort, and she could even be said to be your savior! The Emperor has long known that Chen'er has a husband. He had already questioned Ling Chen's origins when we were back in the palace. It's probably because you were unconscious that you didn't hear anything."

"Ah?!!" Ling Ran turned pale with fright. This was obviously Long Xiang's fault then! Regardless of how pretty and outstanding Ling Chen was, she ultimately belonged to somebody else! And it even was his own nephew! Especially since Long Xiang was the monarch of a country! Drooling over beauties was not a big matter, but to snatch the concubine of one of his subjects, wouldn't that make him the laughingstock of the century? How could he retain his dignity as a monarch? If the officials in the court knew about this, how would they react?!

This was especially so for the only successor of the Sky Bearing's top family, Ling Tian's concubine! This was akin to cuckolding his own nephew! Once word gets out, how big of a wave would it cause? And how could the Ling Family take such an insult? Hand over their future head's concubine on a golden platter? Once the matter gets blown up, the Ling Family would definitely flip in fury!

With Sky Bearing now in a state akin to a tightrope walker balancing up in the air, how could it be able to withstand the fury of the Ling Family? It would cause the destruction of both common stone and jade!

While Ling Ran belonged to the Ling Family, she was unclear of the power of the current Ling Family, and also grossly overestimated the strength of the Imperial Court. If the Ling Family were to really revolt now, Long Xiang would most likely have no choice but to step down and abdicate his throne!

"Haha, what an awesome plan! First bestow a Princess, in order to gain the position of first lady of the Ling Family; next is to grant the title of crown prince to the newborn son, in order to buy favour of the Ling Family, and thoroughly lock the young and old generation in place. Finally is the matter of asking the Royal Consort to bring elegant ladies to enter the palace, knowing that she would bring in her own family. Then he would be able to snatch the peerless beauty from his own nephew, and thoroughly satiate his desires… three birds in one stone, respect, much respect!" Ling Tian sighed in praise as he continued, "The Emperor's mind really thinks fast! Even if things don't work out, he could attack and defend as he pleased, and with the crown prince left in the family, he believes that no family would want to miss this chance for a meteoric rise; and while they won't be happy, they would still endure! Aunt, don't you agree?" Ling Tian warmly smiled at Ling Ran as he asked.

Ling Ran now fully understood the reason for Ling Tian flipping out! If another man were to come up to you and snatch your woman away, you would probably have the same reaction! Looking at Ling Tian's warm smile, Ling Ran could not help but shiver, and did not care about her dignity as the Royal Consort, immediately stammering, "Tian'er, the matter isn't like this, Aunt didn't know that you… you and Ling Chen have already…"

"I believe you were totally ignorant," Ling Tian interrupted, "But your husband is definitely aware of it! Since he dared to move, hahaha, Aunt, this matter doesn't just end here! If you had asked me as the status of a Royal Consort, that wouldn't be too offensive, but if you were coming from the viewpoint of my aunt to request such a thing from me, hehe…" His tone was low, yet one could detect something that was on the verge of exploding out from within him!

Ling Tian stood up and turned to walk out of the chamber. Without turning back, he coldly continued, "Actually, I wouldn't mind letting the child in your tummy seat on the throne before he is born! After all, in part of him runs the blood of my Ling family!" A wave of suppressive killing intent surged out from Ling Tian's body!

While Ling Tian's figure got further away, in Ling Ran's heart, he seemed to be becoming a mountain which covered the skies and earth, pressing down from above, making one hard to breathe!

"Brother Tian!" Princess Jiao Yue felt as though her heart had broken into seven or eight segments, her face pale and bloodless as her body threatened to collapse! The moment she heard Ling Tian say 'bestow a princess to secure the title of first wife', her heart felt like it was being cut apart. While she knew that she was merely a pawn in her father's hands used to win over his subjects, but to hear it from the younger cousin, what's more her future husband, caused her vision to darken and her to almost faint in grief!

A complicated look shot past Ling Tian's face, but he did not turn. "Rest easy in the Ling residence, cousin; when the day comes when you don't want to be a pawn any longer, I'll give you the happiness you want. Actually, the thing I hate most is to always be under the control of others, and I believe that's the same for you!"

When he finished, Ling Tian's shadow suddenly vanished from the steps!

Princess Jiao Yue stood dumbfounded on the steps, two clear streams of tears flowing down her cheeks! If this matter hadn't happened, maybe after marrying into the family, so long as she put in enough effort, both of them still could be in sync, living together in harmony and happiness! She knew recently that her cousin Ling Tian had actually only been hiding behind the signboard of 'number one silkpants', but was in fact well versed in character, literary talent as well as martial arts! Wasn't such a person the dream husband for many a woman?

However, with today's matters, Princess Jiao Yue was trapped in between, unable to do anything! Her father's lust, as well as her mother's suggestion, immediately caused herself to be despised in the Ling Family! All her fantasies of an enchanting life with the man of her life, all disappeared with the wind!

"Aii! Look at yourself!" Old Madam Ling could not help but sigh out at Ling Ran, "You were totally ignorant, but just had to be the mouthpiece! Now that Ling Tian has really been moved to action from anger, this matter will not be easy to solve!"

Chu Ting'er coldly snorted in response. "How could this matter be blamed on Tian'er? How heavy is the crime of snatching someone else's wife? So what if he's the emperor? Now that the flames of war have started, what could a small country amount to? Who knows, maybe by the end of the war, Sky Bearing will have disappeared! He actually dares to think with his p*nis, this shows that he is definitely pitting himself against Tian'er. As such, he needs to be prepared for revenge! Tian'er is already restraining himself. If it was Brother Xiao, hmph, he would have long ago killed his way into the palace!"

Pausing for a while, Chu Ting'er viciously continued, "The moment our family revolts, then Sky Bearing would be the first to fall! At that point, I'll see if he still has the lust to think about Tian'er's wife. Haha, he thinks ous Ling Family is a pushover? Even if Tian'er doesn't say anything, I definitely will not agree! Even if I have to cause a commotion at the palace hall, I also want to ask, which imperial court has a rule of the monarch snatching the wife of a subject!"

Chu Ting'er had completely sided with her son, and took the opportunity to add some pressure on Ling Ran. While everyone knew that this was not the best time to revolt against the emperor, even if they did, the Imperial Court would not be able to do a thing! The best would be if Ling Ran could just suppress this matter, but if she could not, then based on Ling Tian's temper, Sky Bearing could prepare to have a change in dynasty! However, how far the Ling Family could go based on the flames of war raging now is yet to be seen!

However, how could anyone expect Ling Ran's face to turn pale after Chu Ting'er spoke, immediately falling into a dead faint!

While the Ling family had their misgivings, the apprehension for the Imperial Family was even larger! When Long Xiang visited today, he casually asked about Ling Chen's identity from Ling Ran. Not being informed, she told him that Ling Chen was just a maidservant of Ling Tian! This put Long Xiang in great joy, while maidservant and concubine only had a word of difference, this word meant the difference between heaven and earth! Thus, he immediately requested for some ladies to be sent into the imperial court, and hinted for one of them to be Ling Chen.

Furthermore, after Ling Tian had revealed his strength, Long Xiang had gathered a few of his court officials for a discussion, and they deduced with Ye QingChen's visit that Ling Tian had to be the hidden successor for the Beyond Heavens Sect! Being a disciple would mean that they could not involve themselves in any matters of the state, and even more unable to go against an Imperial Family. As such, Long Xiang relaxed his guard towards the Ling Family! He thought that even if they had ambitions, they still had the Beyond Heavens to stop them!

With all this factors put together, Long Xiang felt secure behind a strong backer! But little did he know that this was a coincidental ploy that Ye QingChen had caused! This misconception would go to make him commit the worst mistake of his life, and also the greatest reason as to why Sky Bearing collapsed in the future!

Chapter 235: How to Handle the Matter

Translator: DavidT Editor: DavidT , Rock

Just when Ling Ran was worrying about Yang Xue grasping the opportunity when she was pregnant and unable to be 'doted upon', she heard the suggestion which Long Xiang brought up. It could be said to be the perfect plan and she agreed without hesitation. The way she saw it, Ling Chen was no more than a maid in the Ling residence and it was a common practice for aristocratic families like theirs to give out their maids. Why was there a need to make a big deal out of things? Furthermore, if Ling Chen could be favored by the emperor in the palace, Ling Chen's status would be greatly elevated and it was definitely a wonderful opportunity. Even if her position were to be threatened in future because of Ling Chen, Ling Chen was still a maid sent out from their Ling Family. It would definitely be an easy thing for her to take care of Ling Chen! At the present moment, this was definitely a good move to deal with Yang Xue in the palace. Ling Ran thought that the moment she suggested this plan, everyone would agree without any hesitation. However, she never expected to stir up a hornet's nest by making such a suggestion!

She never dreamt of the fact that Ling Chen was Ling Tian's concubine! Furthermore, Ling Chen had saved her life!

To think that her husband was no more than a lecher who lusted after his own nephew's concubine! She actually greatly supported something like this in her ignorance and fell out with Ling Tian because of this matter! Now, Long Xiang's despicable actions from his lust and her own ungrateful actions were giving her a bad reputation that would be hard to refute!

If this matter were to be spread out, how big of a scandal would it be? How could Ling Ran accept such a scandal? Her originally frail body could no longer take the embarrassment and anger and she fainted on the spot.

Everyone grew anxious and quickly placed her on the bed. Chu Ting'er then jabbed her several times just below her nose and Ling Ran gradually regained her consciousness. The moment she woke up, she burst out wailing, crying with all her strength as she had never felt such embarrassment before in her life.

Princess JiaoYue's heart turned sour as the sorrows in her heart also burst forth. Princess JiaoYue then began whimpering and dived into Ling Ran's bosom, crying her heart out with Ling Ran.

While this mother and daughter pair cried together, the reasons they were crying were completely different. Being someone from an aristocratic family and a consort in the palace, how could Ling Ran survive without scheming? As she cried, she began to organize her thoughts about the whole affair. While the child in her womb had the chance to become the crown prince, if she didn't have the support of the Ling Family or if the Ling Family were to weaken, this would certainly be impossible! Furthermore, she was also a member of the Ling Family and her fate was entangled with the family!

While she was in the wrong today, the matter only resulted from a combination of many freak factors. First was Long Xiang's lust. While he should not have lusted after his own nephew's wife, her own lack of observance was also to be blamed. She had made a rash decision before she was certain of the situation. It was a combination of all these things which caused the rage of the Ling Family. While this incident was extremely detrimental to the reputation of the imperial family, there were only a few people who were aware of it! As long as she could pacify her family members, it would surely be easy for her to suppress this incident! None of them would want the matter to be publicized since this matter concerned the faces of both parties.

As for Long Xiang's lustful thoughts, they must definitely be dispelled! If not, judging from Ling Tian's reaction today, it would be no surprise for him to fly into an outrage for Ling Chen! Especially the fact that Ling Tian was extremely likely to be the disciple of Beyond Heavens, how could a meager emperor be compared to such a status? If Ling Ran knew that Ling Chen was Ling Tian's concubine, she would have immediately rejected Long Xiang's suggestions!

However, it was far too late for regret. Long Xiang's lust had already caused a huge rift between him and Ling Tian! To repair their relationship, a large price and effort would have to be paid! Furthermore, her own daughter was already no more than a chess piece in Ling Tian's heart. Now that Long Xiang had already betrothed Princess JiaoYue to Ling Tian, this matter could no longer be changed! This would definitely affect the happiness of her own daughter! If she were to cause her daughter's misery because of this incident, how would she be able to live with herself? While the imperial family was heartless, Ling Ran only had a single daughter. If she were to personally ruin Princess JiaoYue's lifetime happiness, she would definitely regret it for life!

Ling Ran was certain that she had to suppress this matter quickly and pacify Ling Tian's anger! While Ling Tian went overboard with his words and it could definitely be considered treason, Ling Ran had to place herself in Ling Tian's shoes. How could any man in the world accept their wife being snatched? Even if Long Xiang was the emperor, there was no reason for him to do whatever he pleased! At this point, Ling Ran couldn't help but curse Long Xiang in her heart!

Old Madam Ling then stood up slowly and said with a mellow tone, "Ran'er, your imperial family must definitely settle this matter regarding Ling Chen swiftly! You have not been home very frequently over the past few years and there are things which you aren't clear about. But as a mother, I can only give you and the emperor a friendly advice: Tian'er's strength is not something that you can afford to provoke! Even if you are the rulers of Sky Bearing, there will be no such thing as luck! If he really wanted to touch the imperial family, you guys would not have a chance to retaliate at all! If not for his grandfather, father and you, how could a mere Sky Bearing imperial family force Tian'er to conceal himself for so many years?"

Ling Ran's face changed as she replied, "This child will definitely remember mother's words. However, Tian'er's words did indeed go too far. As a subject, how could he slander the ruler? If the emperor were to hear about this, then…"

Old Madam Ling was stunned for a moment before replying, "Ran'er, you have really grown silly from staying in the palace for so many years. Did you not hear me clearly just now? The winner is king and loser a thief! This is something that will never change! If Tian'er had the intention to rebel, the imperial family of Sky Bearing would definitely not have the surname of Long!"

Ling Ran was startled, "This consort witnessed Tian'er growing up and I am certain that I know him well. How come I didn't know that he has such a strong power behind him? Is it actually true that he is the successor of the number one sect, Beyond Heavens?!"

Old Madam Ling then gave out a bitter laugh, "You know Tian'er well?! It has always been Tian'er knowing others well and others not knowing Tian'er well! Don't you think that Tian'er was far too easily seen through in the past? If you are really someone with keen eyesight, you would realize that everyone's understanding of him is different. This is because you would only be able to understand the side that he wants you to see. From young until now, not to mention you, even his parents or me have not fully understood him!"

With Old Madam Ling's experience, she knew that there were many things that she could no longer tell this daughter of hers. Thus, she purposefully avoided Ling Ran's question about Ling Tian being a successor of Beyond Heavens.

As Old Madam Ling talked, she walked towards the exit and sighed, "I have to pay a visit to Tian'er, lest he does something rash! If that happens, it will be too late!"

Old Madam Ling had already disappeared from the room but her words rung in Ling Ran's head like a resonant bell! Tian'er's strength is enough to shake Long Xiang's rule! Tian'er actually has such a powerful backing at such a young age! Ling Ran knew that her mother would not say something that she didn't have the confidence about. Her mother was definitely not trying to scare her. Furthermore, from the strength Ling Tian revealed when expelling the poison in her, she knew that Ling Tian's strength was not something that an ordinary person would possess! It seems that regardless of whether Ling Tian was a successor of Beyond Heavens, it was necessary for the imperial family to adjust their relationship with the Ling Family!

Ling Ran let out a long sigh. While she was still the daughter of the Ling Family, she was already married-out and the wife of someone else. Furthermore, she even had a child in her womb. While Long Xiang could be considered a competent ruler who had his schemes, he still lacked the charisma and boldness that a ruler needed! With Long Xiang already so wary of the Ling Family, Ling Ran was in a dilemma if she should let Long Xiang know about this matter. What kind of a reaction would he have if he were to find out? Would he…

Ling Ran felt a sense of helplessness in her heart…

Old Madam Ling managed to find Ling Tian very easily as Ling Tian never went too far, waiting for her nearby. Ling Tian knew that his grandmother would definitely come and find him. It was time for some words to be spoken. While this was not the best time, it was still a rather suitable one.

"You little brat!" Old Madam Ling slapped Ling Tian's shoulders and scolded laughingly, "You really scared your aunt today. Her body is still weak and she needs to rest well, but you actually went into a tantrum and let out your bloodlust. Can't you spare a thought for her child? Her child is after all your cousin."

Ling Tian chuckled before replying with a chilly gaze, "Grandmother, you know me very well. I was not joking with aunt just now. This is something that you should be extremely clear about! Why do you have to be a peacemaker? Since Long Xiang has such thoughts, he deserves to die! I will not let him off so easily for sure."

Old Madam Ling went silent for a moment before finally saying, "You have to handle this matter with care. After all, your aunt's child had just been promised the title of crown prince. If he is a boy, then…"

Ling Tian sneered, "With grandmother's wisdom, how could you not be aware of the fact that chaos is imminent? With the strategic geography of Sky Bearing, Sky Bearing would definitely be the target of many empires. Is the position of a meager crown prince really that important? Even if aunt has a son, even if he can be the emperor with the support of our Ling Family, so what?"

Chapter 236: Horror in the Imperial Palace

Translator: chuchutrain Editor: DavidT , Rock

Ling Tian coldly smiled as he continued, "So what if he takes over the country? In the end, it still belongs to the Long family and not our Ling Family! He will still be surnamed Long! And our Ling Family's younger generation will still have to heed their orders! As the saying goes, wealth never goes past three generations. Maybe the Imperial Court still needs to rely on us for the first two generations, but we've already reached the state where we can only promote in status. With the Imperial Family's knowledge, there's no way there they would allow a family with enough ambition and power to take over the country to remain a threat! Thus, it is only a matter of time before our Ling Family is destroyed! Doesn't grandma agree? Don't try to kid yourself!"

Old Madam Ling was silent for quite a while. As the wind blew over, her fluttering white hair looked incomparably desolate. She sighed, "Yes, when you're still alive, the Ling Family won't be harmed. But people eventually die, and after centuries, if there are no other capable people in the Ling Family, then the Imperial Court will destroy us for sure! The most unfeeling party here is the imperial family. I'm clearer than you on this point!"

Ling Tian's gaze was deep and profound as he cautiously replied, "As such, it will only be by building our own country and taking our clan's fate into our own hands that we have a chance to survive. If our descendants perish in the future, that would be because of their own incapability, and not because of others!"

"This woman and her husband are already old. Whatever happens in the Ling Family from now on, I'll leave it to you." Old Madam Ling could only sigh and reply as such.

Ling Tian's heart jumped with joy. By saying this, it signified that his grandmother had chosen to unconditionally support him! As such, things would only get easier!

"There's still something that I require grandma to personally settle. I'm quite sure you'll enjoy doing this." Stretching his hand into his bosom, he took out the notebook that NanGong TianLong had given to him. " These are all the spies that the NanGong family has hidden in our place the past ten years. Paired together with the deeds of Ling Kong, I've dug through everything, there shouldn't be anything left out!"

Taking over the little notebook, Old Madam Ling's eyes flashed with a sharp killing intent as she growled, "Good, this matter can be left to me. It can be considered as fulfilling one of my life's objectives!"

"En, however, Ling Kong is still after all grandpa's adopted son. If we don't handle it well, it will make grandpa sad. Let me deal with him personally, as I've yet to settle my debts with them!" Ling Tian pondered a while more, before continuing, "I've also already deployed my men to control the areas where each of the spies are at. As long as grandma orders it, I'll have them all captured and sent over!"

Ling Tian gave a cruel smile at this point, commenting, "These people are truly unrepentant, grandma cannot go easy on them."

"Get lost, you brat!" Old Madam Ling jokingly scolded. "These old bones have lived for decades, and I know more stuff than you do. Do I need you to remind me?" However, she suddenly paused for a while before giving a knowing smile, "Are you worried about Ling Zhen? You thought that grandma didn't know what kind of person he is?"

Ling Tian seriously nodded his head. "In the past ten years, Ling Zhen has always been by your side, and you've personally groomed him. In these ten years, Ling Zhen has actually not made a move! This is the most skillful sort of scheming in my generation! No matter what problems fall into his hands, he can produce a perfect solution for it. If he wasn't Ling Kong's son, with such caliber, he would definitely be a great asset! However, since he has already decided to be enemies with our family, then keeping such a person would only be a huge tumor! I'm aware that grandma will settle him cleanly, but being humans, we will definitely have feelings, let alone something that has been with us for a long time!"

A severe look passed through Old Madam Ling's eyes in contrary, "Tian'er, you look down on grandma too much. I've been waiting for ten over years for this day. What feelings do I have for that traitor? The father and son are my enemies who caused me to almost not be able to enjoy the blessings of having a grandchild!"

Ling Tian laughed out in understanding, "Since you have already steeled your heart, then you can just activate the family head token at any time, and lock all of them up within the residence! I've given my men instructions not to let even a single one of them go! Such matters should be handled quickly!"

Old Madam Ling nodded in agreement, commanding, "Then pass down the order. The Ling Family should also be purified. I've waited too long for this day!"

When Ling Tian returned to his courtyard, Ling Chen immediately rushed up to him. "Young Noble, the Violent Wind has reported that they have found Su HuaiRen and little Chrysanthemum. They have captured both of them!"

Ling Tian only replied with an 'oh', before grumbling, "If they had to take any longer, I would have given all of them a good smack on their butts!" However, he didn't stop walking, entering the study and writing out a few orders before handing them to Ling Chen to deliver them.

Only then did he ask, "Where are the two of them? Did they only catch them? Any others?"

Ling Chen reported, "In a small village at the suburbs, we caught Su HuaiRen's wife as well as his two children. The men were afraid that you would want to question them, and so only had them tied up, not daring to torture them. Does young noble want to go over to take a look?" As she finished her report, she suddenly broke into laughter, "However, that Su HuaiRen was indeed prepared. Under his house was a huge space stored full of food, at least half a year's supply! The amount of gold and treasures hidden together inside was be enough for a man to live for three lifetimes! Furthermore, the place was well hidden, with a water well directly beside them and also a passage for excrement to flow away. Obviously, this place must have been prepared a long time ago."

Ling Tian laughed in acknowledgment, "This makes sense! If Su HuaiRen didn't have any life preserving methods, how would he dare to take up such a heinous task? Hmph, he definitely planned it well; first hiding for three to five months, then when the worst has blown past, he would secretly escape and enjoy his life as a wealthy man! Hahaha, a pity… he won't have this sort of future anymore!" Ling Tian's face turned frosty cold, and he continued, "I'll let him know what's it like to live life for the moment!'

Ling Tian stood up and walked out from his study, before addressing Ling Chen once more, "I don't have to personally settle this sort of matter, just pass it to Ling Jian! All of them are to die after the matter has been completed! Ask Ling Jian to bring their statements as well as their heads and come and find me! No matter what methods he has to use, I want a full confession from them! Just make sure that he leaves their facial features recognizable!

Ling Chen assented and went to spread the news. In her heart, she knew that this matter was already closed!

While Ling Jian's interrogation moves were passed on from Ling Tian, it was already the case of the student surpassing the master! Ling Jian's moves were cruel but effective, leaving people shell-shocked! Those who had witnessed Ling Jian interrogating someone would all be nauseous for three to five days, unable to eat or drink well for the month. Most lost a few pounds because of that, so it seems like a good way to lose weight!

The moment Ling Tian sent down the order for Ling Jian to take action, Su HuaiRen could be considered to have been sent down the path of no return! If Su HuaiRen were to muster up all his courage and commit suicide before Ling Jian appeared, he would at least save himself more than ninety percent of the pain he was going to receive! However, once Ling Jian arrived, he would most likely be unable to even kill himself, for by then, his life didn't belong to himself anymore!

Nighttime.

Clouds covered the sky and a light drizzle began to fall. The surroundings were plunged into a darkness in which one couldn't see their hand in front of their face!

Yang Xue had trouble sleeping the past few days, being plagued by nightmares. Especially with the incident of plotting against Ling Ran. The fact that her flawless plan could be seen through and thwarted by that brat Ling Tian made her clench her teeth in hate and anger! Now Yang Xue no longer had any chances to succeed, and could only wait for Ling Ran to give birth and bring the child into the palace. But by then, with their heightened awareness, for her to strike would be even more difficult!

If she really gave birth to a boy….

Upon thinking of this, Yang Xue no longer had any thoughts about sleeping. Her only option left was to pray hard that Ling Ran would give birth to another daughter. Other than that, she didn't have any ideas to counter them. She endlessly worried for over half the night before she finally fell asleep from exhaustion.

In her dreams, she suddenly felt cold raindrops dripping onto her face, the cold seeping into her bones! She suddenly woke when she realized that she was in the Imperial Palace, so how could there be rain dripping on her?

"Pa pa…." The sound of raindrops echoed non stop as though they were landing directly beside her. The heavy scent of blood could be detected in the air, making Yang Xue frightened beyond compare. In her imagination, she felt as though there were innumerable demons in the darkness, quietly waiting for the chance to latch their claws onto her body.

Stretching out a hand to touch her face, she felt something viscous, enough to prove that she was not having a mere dream previously.

There was no sound at all in her surroundings, as though only she was left in the entire Imperial Palace. Yang Xue was already at her wit's end, and could only shout to summon her servants. Her voice sounded mournful as it echoed through the entire palace, but there was nobody running to answer her. This was something impossible, but that impossible matter had still happened! A deathly silence answered her, increasing the eeriness of this entire incident.

Yang Xue only felt her heart grow cold. Boundless fear seemed to have smothered her in its embrace, and in the silent surroundings, only the "ka ka" sounds of her teeth clattering together in fright could be heard.

Chapter 237: Bloody Mess

Translator: DavidT Editor: DavidT , Rock

Bearing with the palpitations of her heart, Yang Xue got off her bed trembling with fear, stumbling for a few times before finally finding the flint to light a lamp. After grabbing onto it with much difficulty, she had to strike it for more than 10 times before the lamp was finally lit.

Yang Xue carefully raised up the small lamp and walked to her bedside. As she unknowingly glanced at her hand, she suddenly realized that it was stained with blood! She couldn't help but let out a shriek and almost fainted on the spot!

As she approached the dripping sounds, Yang Xue lowered her head to take a look and her body trembled from what she saw. The place where her pillow was placed was filled with a puddle of blood! The eye-catching bright red puddle was dripping down from her bed slowly with a barely audible 'ta-ta' sound.

Following the trace of the blood, Yang Xue's beautiful eyes widened in fear as she began to go into shock. A long red belt dangled down from the ceiling with two bloodied heads hanging on it! A male and a female! Yang Xue could clearly see that the heads were that of Su HuaiRen and Little Chrysanthemum! A long sword skewered both the heads together with blood gathering on the tip of the sword, dripping down slowly.

The expression on both their faces was identical: contorted in extreme pain! Their hollow eyes were filled with despair and both their mouths were opened wide with not a single tooth present. Even their tongues were gone and only a large hole was left behind! It was as though they were cursing Yang Xue in their minds.

Just when Yang Xue was about to have a nervous breakdown, both the heads suddenly started rotating and something dropped onto the bed with a thud. A cloth filled with words written in blood could be seen. As Yang Xue opened it to take a look, her eyes began to turn dark!

On the bloody note, every detail about how she planned Ling Ran's mishap was written down. From when the plan should be carried out to when the poison should be administered, whatever Yang Xue said and did were all clearly stated! It was in full detail! Furthermore, not only did it have everything Yang Xue instructed Su HuaiRen to do, it even had Su HuaiRen's signature!

Yang Xue could no longer remain standing. She fell on the ground with her mouth open wide and her breath ragged. It seemed that the only thing she could taste was the blood in the air. The harder she panted, the more she felt as though she was unable to breathe! However, she was after all the empress of Sky Bearing. After calming herself down, she knew that the testimony in her hands couldn't be witnessed by anyone else! Raising up her trembling hands, she lit the note on fire, and once it was reduced to ashes, she let out a sigh of relief.

Right at this moment, the window of her bedroom silently swung open and a chilly wind blew into the room. Yang Xue felt her body shiver as her hair stood up on end! Both of the heads also began to sway gently, as though they were greeting Yang Xue. With a loud shriek, Yang Xue took a few steps back as her body broke out into a cold sweat!

After Little Chrysanthemum's suspended head swayed for a moment, her already messy hair suddenly scattered with a 'peng' and covered half her face, only revealing her despair filled eyes. Following which, a long note could be seen falling down from Little Chrysanthemum's hair with the words, 'Your Highness, I really miss you!' written on it!

Yang Xue's vision turned dark and she could no longer endure the frightening scene in front of her. With a soft groan, her body collapsed on the floor as she fainted.

As the sun rose, the maids, eunuchs, and guards gradually began to awake from their slumber. They all felt their heads dizzy and throbbing with their bodies weak and without strength. However, their Empress who usually woke up early was completely silent even though it was already nearing noon. In anxiousness, the maids began to pluck up their courage and began to shout for her but to no avail. A few of Yang Xue's personal maids then pushed her bedroom door open to take a look but all fainted on the floor from fright!

The Empress' usually beautiful bedroom had transformed into a living hell in just a single night!

Cries of panic and fright could be heard from afar as two young men ran over clumsily from the Eastern Palace. One of them only wore a pair of shorts while the other was completely naked!

They were Yang Xue's sons, the current crown prince and his younger brother!

Yang Xue's younger son had a face full of fear with despair in his eyes! His eyes were opened wide with confusion and fear in them. Furthermore, a bloodied head could actually be seen in his embrace!

Yang Xue's elder son, the crown prince, looked slightly better but his eyes were also filled with fear and restlessness. But at the very least, he was still in his right state of mind.

It turns out that when the both of them woke up in the morning, they found out that their bedrooms had been turned into a living hell! The two beautiful palace maids they had slept with last night had been dismembered!

Their blankets were soaked in blood, with the heads of the beautiful maids still being held in their hands. On their beautiful faces, a look of pleasure from the previous night could still be seen.

Their rooms had been turned into a slaughterhouse with blood splattered and severed limbs all over the room.

The rooms of both the princes were no different from a living hell! They sprinted out with a shriek and rushed out of their palaces without wearing anything at all. In shock and confusion, one had forgotten about the fact that he was holding onto a head and grabbed onto it like it was a treasure.

Upon witnessing this scene, the guards and maids rushed forward to support and protect the both of them. However, the eyes of their second prince had a vacant look as he mumbled some incomprehensible gibberish. At the same time, his glittering saliva drooped down towards his chest without him even noticing anything. A stench filled the room as his bladder and bowels were loosened.

Yang Xue's own son, the younger brother of the current crown prince, Long Sun, had completely crumbled from extreme shock and he suffered a mental break down.

The crown prince wasn't in a good shape either. His eyes were lifeless, and he was curled up into a fetal position as he muttered some incoherent words!

The whole palace was in complete chaos!

Long Xiang quickly rushed there and immediately started puking upon witnessing such a scene before being overwhelmed with shock!

Just like how when Ling Ran was poisoned, everyone knew that it was definitely the actions of the Empress and the Yang Family. However, they all came to a tacit understanding that dealing with the Empress would definitely bring about dissatisfaction from the Yang Family and throw the empire into chaos!

For this incident in the palace, there wasn't even a need to think about it. It was definitely done by the Ling Family! Consort Ling Ran was poisoned and both mother and child were almost lost. How could the Ling Family swallow their anger like that? They would definitely take their revenge!

However, Long Xiang never imagined that the Ling Family's revenge would come so quickly and in such a frightening manner! Furthermore causing such a horrifying effect.

Thinking about the Ling Family's frightening strength, Long Xiang couldn't help but feel his whole body freeze up from the fright!

***

That evening, the Ling Family's Family Head Order was sent to all of their organizations, regardless of size.

At the same time, Ling Tian's orders were also sent out to all of his hidden powers to aid the Ling Family!

The wailing of ghosts and cries of wolves could be heard from all around as a bloodbath was unleashed!

The Ling Family's strength could no longer be compared to what it was like a decade ago. In these few years, with the rise of the God of War and Goddess of Fortune, the assets of the Ling Family had spread all across the Sky Bearing Empire. But despite the huge size of the Ling Family's organization, they were all controlled in an instant. While a few of the more alert spies could feel that something was wrong, they no longer had a chance to escape and were all caught. Especially at the Northwest Horse Ranch, which had large numbers of high-leveled staff being taken back to Sky Bearing City!

The messenger falcons were quickly dispersed like a black swarm in all directions. They later gathered in the Ling Family courtyard from all over. The news on each and every single falcon was the same: Mission accomplished. Everything went as planned and no one was able to escape!

In Ling Tian's little courtyard, Ling Chen reported to Ling Tian with a smile, "Young noble, mission accomplished! All the suspects were captured without a single one of them escaping! They should arrive here in three days time!"

Ling Tian's eyes narrowed as all of this was within his expectations. He then said calmly, "I have been planning this carefully for a full eight years. Together with the fact that these are all my own family's businesses, it would be a joke if I let anyone escape!" Stretching lazily, Ling Tian stood up and said with a mellow tone, "Command all the respective heads of the Ling Family's businesses to rush back to the Ling Family Courtyard! Inform the courtyard to set up tents for them to stay in! In future, the rules of the Ling Family will have to be changed. The previously undisciplined attitudes will no longer exist!"

Ling Chen acknowledged the order and wrote up a note without delay, sending it out with the messenger falcon.

Chapter 238: Martial Path of Painting

Translator: chuchutrain Editor: DavidT , Rock

Off to the side, the blindfolded Yu BingYan was attempting to draw a painting. Since that day when they came to an understanding, Ling Tian no longer tried to hide any of his personal matters from Yu BingYan. On the contrary, it was Yu BingYan who felt embarrassed by how open he was. Right now, Ling Tian had commanded Ling Chen concerning some classified information in the Ling Family without bothering about her presence in the least. This gave her the feeling that Ling Tian already treated her as part of the family. Sweetness pervaded her heart, and even while blindfolded, her lips still raised up in a silly smile.

Strolling to the east wall, Ling Tian looked at Yu BingYan's blindfolded artwork for the past two days. A total of six paintings hung in a neat row on the wall; from the first being a total mess, to the sixth, neatly done with not a single hair out of place. Ling Tian couldn't help but notice her visibly shocking rate of improvement. Clearly Yu BingYan had already grasped the concept of 'drawing with one's heart'. While her understanding was only at the beginning stage, it could still be considered a tremendous improvement!

However, what Ling Tian wanted was not just for her to master painting. He wanted to see if the paintings would contain a hint of martial skills within them. He hoped that with the continuous hints, Yu BingYan would be able to enlighten herself on this matter! However, Yu BingYan right now obviously didn't have that thought in mind yet.

Ling Tian sighed, patting Yu BingYan on her shoulder as he spoke, "Yan'er, take off your blindfold. Let Chen'er paint a picture for you to see!"

The corners of Yu BingYan's mouth curled up into a smile as she obediently took off her blindfold. She excitedly spoke, "That's great, to think that I could witness Sister Chen painting!"

Ling Chen forced out a smile, "Young Noble, why must you play me like this? While I might be better than Yu BingYan, it's only because practice makes perfect. How about young noble personally painting once for her?"

However, Ling Tian shook his head, rejecting her. "How could you say that? From my teachings, Chen'er you have reached close to eighty percent of my skills, so how could that be merely the result of practice makes perfect? Furthermore, Yu BingYan hasn't reached the required stage yet, so it would be more difficult if you ask her to extrapolate my skill rather than yours!"

Hearing as such, Ling Chen no longer declined, instead giving a sweet smile, "Since young noble wants me to make a fool out of myself in front of sister Yan, then I can only do so!"

Ling Tian only gave a faint smile in response. A flick of his sleeve and a piece of snow white paper floated up from amongst the stack of papers placed on the table. Another flick and the floating paper plastered itself onto the wall with a 'pa' sound. Almost instantaneously, while Ling Tian didn't move, four silver needles pierced the paper on all four corners, holding it firmly on the wall without any creases!

Ling Chen too didn't dare delay. With a single movement she appeared in front of the paper, and as though acting on instinct, picked up the brush and dipped it slightly in ink, then began to draw whatever she desired. With only the time taken to brew a cup of tea, a picture of an elegant noble wearing a silk robe appeared on the paper. The noble's facial appearance was similar to Ling Tian's, and on his surroundings was a winter scene, with white snow flying. Not far away from him was a winter plum tree, its blood-red flowers fighting to open against the weather. This was akin to putting the finishing touch, and adding vigor and spirit to the otherwise lifeless painting! What a good "Viewing the Plum Blossom in Snow"!

This painting was not only full of artistic conception, it also caused one to be absorbed into the person and scenery. To call it a masterpiece would not be an understatement, but Ling Chen finished it in one sitting, her brush moving like the flowing clouds and water, as though an immortal was painting the picture!

Her movements were even more ingenious, a while fast, then a while slow! This let the bystander Yu BingYan carefully observe every single move! In her eyes, every movement made by Ling Chen seemed to be merely a simple move, slow and leisurely; yet every single move carried with it a sort of natural flair, a feeling as though she had created an ideal scenario where success was guaranteed! However, in actual fact, her brush movements were immensely rapid like lightning, never touching the same place twice! Just based on Yu BingYan's perceptions, these two contrasting styles appeared!

Extreme speed matched with pondering slowness!

Yu BingYan stared at Ling Chen with an expression of shock and disbelief! This was obviously a profound martial arts skill!

This was the first time that Ling Chen had shown off her skills in front of Yu BingYan. Before this, Yu BingYan had never known that Ling Chen's martial arts had reached such a profound state! With the experience obtained from being in a millennium-old great family, she could tell that Ling Chen had already reached the peak of HouTian! Such talent and such profound cultivation, paired with her peerless beauty. Just look around, how many of such people could match up to her, and how many males could actually withstand her charm?

A huge sense of defeat suddenly rose up within Yu BingYan. She had long fallen head over heels in love for Ling Tian, and while she was aware of Ling Chen's deep feelings for Ling Tian, she knew that Ling Chen was after all Ling Tian's maid. While she addressed her as elder sister Chen, she had always thought of herself as Ling Tian's first wife, and even when hearing that Emperor Long Xiang had bestowed a marriage upon Ling Tian, she was not ruffled at all. How could the princess of a small country be compared to the first miss of the Yu Family? However, she found out with shock that her greatest opponent to obtaining Ling Tian's heart was actually Ling Chen!

Just as Yu BingYan was lost in her thoughts, Ling Chen had already completed her drawing and came over to Yu BingYan. Seeing her staring into space, she thought that she was shocked about her artwork and couldn't help but break into laughter, "Sister Yan, what's wrong? You don't need to look so stunned, all of my skills were imparted to me by the young noble, and because of my limited aptitude, I'm still unable to break past the concept of 'Seeing a mountain is not a mountain', unlike young noble who has already achieved the state of 'seeing a mountain and one with the mountain'!

Yu BingYan received another bombshell to her already wounded pride, "You mean that Brother Tian's skills are a notch higher than your masterpieces? I've seen him draw before, and while his skills were brilliant, they were at most on par with you! And what is this 'seeing a mountain is not a mountain' and 'seeing a mountain and one with the mountain'?"

Ling Chen chortled at her incredulous look, "Young noble is accustomed to pretending to be a pig to eat the tiger. Since when has he ever displayed his true strength? All of Chen'er's arts were passed on by the Young Noble, could it be that he as the teacher is below me the disciple?"

Ling Tian joined in with a laugh, "The meaning of 'seeing a mountain' refers to the intention of the artist. Most people are only able to imitate to perfection and find it difficult to pass the barrier to a higher state. Yan'er has already achieved small success in your intention, and thus you're at the initial state, 'seeing a mountain as a mountain'. In this state, you're able to input everything you've seen before on paper. Ling Chen is a notch higher, named 'seeing a mountain is not a mountain'. In that state, the heart is like a canvas, always having an image that can be displayed on paper...."

Yu BingYan was initially already enthralled when it came to painting. While she knew in her heart that Ling Chen was an obstacle in her love life, she was aware that Ling Tian was also in love with her, and added to the fact that she was also on good terms with Ling Chen, she didn't dwell on it, instead eagerly asking question Ling Tian on the higher realms of painting, "How about brother Tian's 'seeing a mountain and one with the mountain'?"

Ling Tian casually remarked, "My realm is where I see the mountains, and I am one with the mountains. It is past your stage of existence, as well as Chen'er's realization. In this state, the art is me, and I am the art!"

Yu BingYan seemed like she was grasping at straws, as she replied, "I seem to have understood, but then again maybe not. Your analogy sounds like cultivation realms?"

Ling Tian gave an enigmatic smile in response, "There exist myriad possibilities for achieving the peak existence in this world. If you've reached a high enough state, why would you bother about defining terms? Using this reasoning, let me also paint a picture for you; as to whether you can understand it, that's up to you."

Yu BingYan was so lost in her own thoughts that she didn't even reply.

Ling Tian's mouth tugged upwards in a smile that was not really a smile as he flicked his sleeve; a fresh sheet of paper immediately attached itself on the wall, and with the curling of his fingers, a brush leaped onto his hand!

Without wasting a single second, Ling Tian twitched, and it was as though he had disappeared from the spot in front of Yu BingYan's eyes, appearing miraculously before the paper. His brush heavily dropped down as though attempting to split heaven and earth, drawing a vivid line straight down!

If Ling Chen was in the realm of appearing slow yet being extremely fast, then Ling Tian now could be considered a tier above, appearing stationary but in fact drawing so quickly that he released a tremendous force!

Yu BingYan felt as though a heaven splitting sword had just cut open the skies themselves, abruptly slashing down! The line of black on the paper felt as though the night sky was revealed through the cut, the resplendent scene illuminating both the past and the present!

A simple brushstroke, and yet exuding such a torrential and vigorous aura from the paper! This stroke gave everybody who saw it a hair-raising experience!

Was Ling Tian actually drawing?! Or was the painting turning into Ling Tian?!

Ling Tian stood ramrod straight, immovable like a towering mountain! His eyes were focused, the brush on his hands darting about. In just a few strokes, a picture of a vast landscape with rivers and mountains was clearly displayed on the paper, as though it was real! They appeared like the artist himself, deep and profound, majestic and awe-inspiring.

At this particular moment, Ling Tian seemed to have completely fused together with the artwork into a single being, a miraculous encounter which one would find hard to believe! Not only that, but his art seemed to contain elements of martial skills, as though he had fused his martial path together with the painting itself! Just this sort of realm perfectly showcased his ingenuity and creativity, and his martial path was already at the level of being able to open a sect to accept disciples with the status of a grandmaster! All these accolades actually belonged to a mere teenager!

This sort of impossibility had actually happened, and even happened in front of Yu BingYan's own eyes!

Chapter 239: Rigorous Schemes and Deep Foresight

Translator: chuchutrain Editor: DavidT , Rock

While Yu BingYan was still in a daze, Ling Tian had already placed his brush back on the table, coming back to her side.

"How do you feel?" After a while, as though afraid to break her contemplation, Ling Tian then softly spoke, his voice faintly discernible like the light drizzle of spring. It slowly wormed its way into her thoughts, breaking her out of that mysterious reverie.

"An exquisite and flawless portrait of mountains and rivers; and a set of severe sword techniques. I also sense a sort of mysterious cultivation technique, and also… an endless imposing manner. The artwork also contains your own line of thinking, as though your whole self had blended to become the artwork itself. This… what kind of realm is this in… Yu BingYan's eyes remained glued to the painting, her state of mind still trapped within it as she spoke dreamily.

"If you could infuse your martial arts into your painting… weaving all the knowledge of your martial arts into the painting, making up for your deficiencies in being unable to cultivate, what a wonderful thing that would be." Ling Tian's voice sounded like a wisp speaking to her, or perhaps an immortal voice descending from the heavens, burrowing deep into her subconsciousness, eliciting encouragement, desires… and hope!

This was actually a heart sutra that Ling Tian was skilled in, the Music of the Dream Immortal! It closely resembled hypnosis, but was much more profound than just plain hypnotizing the victim! This method was created by Ling Tian through observing the psychological therapy processes as well as the art of hypnotism, and its purpose was mainly to elicit confessions from people! However, Ling Tian found out that this heart sutra had the convenient effect of being able to subtly influencing a person's thoughts, not just merely for confessions. As such, seeing Yu BingYan so lost in her own dreams, he decided to operate the skill and lend her a helping hand!

As long as Yu BingYan really digested this concept, and discovered how to fully integrate her martial skills into painting, then Ling Tian had the confidence to push her to greater heights! He would allow her to separate herself from the painting, removing her obsession that was 'seeing the mountain as a mountain'. Only then could she truly integrate her abilities, and open up a new path in the way of martial arts!

"If I could infuse martial techniques into art… infuse martial techniques into art…" Yu BingYan muttered to herself, her eyes still focused on Ling Tian's picture of the mountains and rivers. Her mental state was becoming more and more perplexed. In Yu BingYan's eyes, the painting seemed to have transformed into a sword dance, and she felt as though she had been enlightened on something, but at the same time it was still out of her grasp...

Even after a long while, silence still reigned in the study. Not a single sound could be heard!

Knowing that Yu BingYan had already reached the crucial point, Ling Chen also silently stood by the window, not daring to make a squeak. She was not jealous of the prajna-like state of enlightenment that Yu BingYan was going through because she knew that as long as she wanted to learn, her young noble would pull out all the stops to make sure she mastered it!

Suddenly, a groan came out of Yu BingYan's mouth, and her face turned pale as she lost consciousness. Luckily, she fell straight into Ling Tian, who had positioned himself behind her.

Ling Tian laughed bitterly to himself as it turned out that he was too impatient! While this lass had an iron will, her constitution was too weak and couldn't take the pressure, collapsing when she was one step away from success. However, she had already gotten a brief impression and the rest would depend on her hard work from now on. So long as she constantly recalled this feeling, one day she would definitely breakthrough the bottleneck!

***

Yu ManTang hurriedly went to the Yu Family's signature building, the Moon Climbing Star Picking Tower. In his hand he held a piece of paper, and this mental state was anxious.

"Big brother, Xue Leng from Sky Bearing has sent us news. Take a look, what should we do now? Are we really going to stand on the sidelines?" Seeing Yu ManLou, he immediately spoke in an urgent tone.

Yu ManLou was poised in front of the table, practicing his calligraphy. Every stroke was written slowly and meticulously, and he didn't even turn his head to address the speaker, saying, "Second brother, come and see; has my calligraphy improved over the past few days?"

Yu ManTang didn't know whether to laugh or to cry, "Big brother, there's a missive from Sky Bearing, it's important news!"

Without batting an eyelid, Yu ManLou merely replied, "And what of it? Second brother, as a leader, one has to temper their will as well; not flinching even if a mountain collapses in front of him, and not batting an eyelid even at a sword rushing towards him! Your will still needs more tempering!"

"Uh…" Yu ManTang knew that his elder brother was right, so left without a choice he could only sigh and sit down at the side in a depressed mood. However, he found out that he couldn't sit still, and started pacing around the room.

A long time passed, at least an hour before Yu ManLou wrote his last word. He stood up in satisfaction, staring at his finished product with a smile, obviously pleased with his work.

"Second brother, what do you think of this set of calligraphy?" Yu ManLou seemed to have carefully spoken out, but it perfectly interrupted Yu ManTang who was about to speak.

"Good, this… the strokes are vigorous and fascinating, how beautiful!" Yu ManTang spouted some bullsh*t before diverting the topic, "Xue Leng sent a message…"

"En? You're such a spoilsport…" Yu ManLou only raised his eyebrows in response, finally sighing in resignation. Tossing his brush aside, he spoke with an indifferent attitude, "Say it, what's it about? Why are you panicking over such small matters!"

Yu ManTang finally let out a breath of relief, opening up the missive and reading out loud, "Xue Leng has delivered news, that Sky Bearing is now engulfed in a strange disturbance, one that they can't put a finger on. All the major powers have gathered there, but have all been suppressed by one person, and no one dares to move…."

Yu ManLou's eyebrows shot up instantly, "Ling Tian has finally shown his true colors? Displaying strength far above all others, creating a huge show of intimidation?"

"Big brother is a genius!" Yu ManTang was thoroughly convinced by his brother's talent, "This is indeed so! We have no idea as to why Ling Tian would suddenly make a move, killing five men from the XiMen Family, with one of them being their youngest child, XiMen Zhang! The whole of Sky Bearing is now in shock, and according to Xue Leng, Ling Tian's ability isn't inferior to third brother! There are also rumors going around that Ling Tian is a successor for Beyond Heavens!"

Yu ManLou laughed as he rapped as fingers on the table, "This makes more sense! If he had still remained hidden at this point, then I would be truly mistaken about him! Judging by the way he does things, he shouldn't be from Beyond Heavens; however, who could actually raise such a frightening character? This is the answer I most wish to know!"

Leisurely returning back to his table, Yu ManLou continued, "Since he devised a plan to lure all the major powers to Sky Bearing, then he definitely has a scheme! But if he appears as the silkpants noble he normally is, then no one would bother to pay attention to such a licentious person, even if he's the successor to the Ling Family of Sky Bearing! Thus, Ling Tian has to show off his influence! Throwing aside his previous image and showing the families how aggressive and tyrannical he is, only then could he suppress all the families! Only by doing so can he then proceed with the next part of his plan!"

Yu ManTang couldn't help but be startled. In front of his brother, what he deemed as a heaven shaking event in Sky Bearing seemed to have already been totally anticipated by his brother. He couldn't help but let out a wry smile, feeling a burden lifting off his shoulders. He then continued reading out the rest of the contents of the letter.

"Deng...deng...deng," Yu ManLou's fingers rapped against the tabletop as he sank into deep thought. "Third brother wrecking havoc in Sky Bearing seems to be rude and impetuous but also seems to be part of Ling Tian's scheme. However, this has no disadvantage to us and can in fact be used to proclaim the influence of our family. This only has gains and not losses for us." Yu ManLou concluded leisurely, "The problem lies within Yu BingYan and Ling Tian…" At this, Yu ManLou sank into contemplation as he furrowed his brows.

Yu ManTang also furrowed his brows, saying, "Big brother, I don't think this matter is appropriate!" In the end, he only had this one daughter, so how could he calmly hand her over to Ling Tian? He immediately voiced his dissatisfaction.

Yu ManLou chided him, "What is inappropriate about it? This is a good thing, and we should put in all our efforts to make this happen!" Yu ManLou paused to let out a sigh before continuing, "Second brother, I know your heart aches for your daughter, but how can I not have any heartache for her too? I have no daughter by my side to begin with, and in my heart, she is as good as my daughter! A pity that fortune does not favor her, afflicting her body with this incurable disease that can't be solved by any panaceas. She can't live for much longer, but to think that on her is such a heavy family burden! Right now, she has finally obtained some measure of happiness, so how could we not grant her that? This could be her last and greatest wish! Don't tell me, you are not willing…"

"Since big brother has put it that way, this young brother has no objections either." Upon digging up his heartaches, Yu ManTang only let out a long sigh and replied simply. The corners of his eyes already appeared wet as he continued, "Fulfilling her wish is also good, then she would not have been born without any purpose. Since big brother thinks so highly of that kid, then he's definitely suitable for Yan'er."

Yu ManLou's eyes flashed with a weird light as he laughed, "That is so!" However, deep in his heart, he thought to himself, Yu BingYan can't survive much longer, and she could already be considered to have one foot in the grave! However, if she can complete her marriage vows with Ling Tian before attending the battle against the Water of Heavenly Wind, then Ling Tian will also become a target of the Shui Family! With such strength that he has displayed, he would create a nightmare for them, allowing our Yu Family to profit off it!

When the time comes, the Yu Family can use the excuse of a duel to decimate half the forces of the Water of Heavenly Wind! While our forces will be reduced, it would not be a vital loss, and the death god that is Ling Tian could just swoop in to settle the rest of the problem! As long as the Yu Family aids him, the Shui Family might just end up annihilated! When the time comes, wouldn't the Yu family be left as the largest influential family in the whole of the three continents?

Chapter 240: Deep Schemes

Translator: DavidT Editor: DavidT , Rock

If Ling Tian and Water of Heavenly Wind were to be greatly injured from their confrontation, the Yu Family might be able to wipe the both of them out together! Even if Beyond Heavens were to find out, it would be far too late for them to do anything. After all, the continent requires a powerful family like the Yu Family to suppress all other powers. No matter how angry Beyond Heavens might be, they would definitely leave the Yu Family alone for the stability of the continent.

Following which, they had to just suppress the other weaker families, and their Yu Family would be the number one in the continent! At that time, their Yu Family would be able to do whatever they wished, and ruling the world would no longer be a dream! After the Yu Family builds up their strength, they wouldn't even have to fear Beyond Heavens!

The continent is a large place and martial arts aren't the solution to everything. Strategy and schemes are even more important!

Yu ManLou was indeed a formidable character! To think that he would actually plan so far ahead! However, Yu ManTang was clueless about all of this. He only thought that his big brother was concerned about his daughter's happiness and had made such a decision despite the losses of their family. Thus, he was extremely touched in his heart!

"Big brother, a few days ago, we received news about Northern Wei sending men to assassinate third brother and BingYan. Should we… why not we grasp the initiative? What does big brother think about that?" Yu ManTang suddenly thought about something and asked.

"There is something wrong about this matter!" Yu ManLou immediately rejected Yu ManTang, "This matter is extremely fishy and it is best for us to observe the matter first. Furthermore, third brother and a few white jade experts are in Sky Bearing. With their martial arts, there shouldn't be any problem. Even if things were to go wrong, they would be able to escape for sure. As for BingYan, there is no need to worry at all. With Ling Tian by her side, the assassins that Wei ChengPing can hire are no more than a joke!"

"Furthermore, I am extremely suspicious," Yu ManLou said with a frown, "could this be a plot aimed at my Yu Family? Since Wei ChengPing wants to assassinate third brother and BingYan, shouldn't it be kept a secret? Why were we able to receive news of it so easily? Aren't they afraid of our Yu Family taking the initiative to wipe out their imperial family? They should know that our Yu Family has the capabilities to do so! There is definitely something fishy about this matter!"

Yu ManTang couldn't help but frown, "That's right, hearing brother's analysis, I do feel that there is something fishy. Besides, how would Wei ChengPing dare to openly provoke our Yu Family?"

Yu ManLou let out a chuckle, "That's why there must definitely be something going on behind the scenes. Even if it isn't because of Water of Heavenly Wind, one of our archenemies is definitely behind the matter! Since they are waiting for our response, they must be prepared for sure. Now that we can ensure third brother and BingYan's safety, we should remain calm and not make a move. The best thing for us to do now is to be patient and observe their next move!"

Yu ManTang's eyes lit up, "That's right! If we don't react, they would only have two choices. It's either they retreat silently or carry out the next part of their plan. No matter what they choose, they would definitely reveal some clues to us. At that time, we can take them out in one fell swoop! We would definitely achieve twice the effect with half the effort."

"That's right!" Yu ManLou praised. However, there was a strange inexplicable light in his eyes. At the same time, the corner of his lips curved up ever so slightly. While the smile looked amiable on the surface, one would be able to see cruelty and savageness upon closer look…

***

The long procession of prisoners moved along slowly and was already nearing the Sky Bearing City. In just another dozen of miles, they would be at the Ling Family Courtyard.

A squadron of troops charged out from the southern entrance with the upper echelons of the Ling Family leading the group. Duke Ling and General Ling were both red from anger with fire spewing out from their eyes. Especially Duke Ling's expression, filled with complicated emotions with a slight trace of reluctance and pity. At the same time, it was also filled with anger and heartbreak! However, Ling Tian who was by their side was completely calm.

Behind them were a few luxurious carriages with Old Madam Ling and Chu Ting'er seated within them. Worried about Yu BingYan's safety with the assassins of Northern Wei in Sky Bearing, Ling Tian brought her along and placed her in a carriage with Ling Chen.

Yu BingYan was a lovable individual with a lively and easy going character. On the other hand, Ling Chen was extremely gentle with a cautious character. After staying together during this period, Yu BingYan and Ling Chen were already as close as sisters.

As for the Xiao Family, they also shifted into the Smoky Thea Tower with the other powers. On one hand, it was also for the sake of their face and on the other hand because they didn't have an excuse to continue staying in the Ling residence.

However, Xiao YanXue would still visit Old Madam Ling and Chu Ting'er frequently, and find Ling Chen to learn music. After a few visits, the three ladies can be said to be bosom buddies.

After the Xiao Family moved to the Smoky Thea Tower, Yu ManTian, who was already itching for a fight, found a random excuse to fight Xiao FengYang! While Xiao FengYang's brain wasn't too bad, his martial arts just couldn't be compared to Yu ManTian. Thus, he was easily taken care of by Yu ManTian in just a few moves. Being a martial arts fanatic, Yu ManTian was naturally dissatisfied, cursing Xiao FengYang for being a sissy.

As for Gu XiYan of the Smoky Thea Tower, Ling Tian had already given her a stern warning when the Xiao Family moved in! Ling Tian warned her to not touch anyone from the Xiao Family and even hinted to her that it wasn't impossible for her to get her revenge if they were to follow him wholeheartedly!

Gu XiYan who was originally in despair quickly grabbed onto her final life preserver! Especially the fact that this life preserver of hers seemed to be rather powerful. With the hope of revenge, she would naturally not dare to go against Ling Tian's orders!

As for the XiMen Family who had their young master killed by Ling Tian without mercy, they were completely silent! Their actions also became extremely strange. Originally, the other Great Families had the intention to watch the show from the side and witness the hidden strength of the number one young noble from Sky Bearing. However, they were all greatly disappointed!

While the XiMen Family's actions of not provoking Ling Tian was a wise choice, they were still part of the Eight Great Families after all. Thus, the XiMen Family's cowardly actions drew gazes of disdain from all the other Great Families! Their own child was killed but they didn't even dare to retaliate! Can this be considered a Great Family? It was no more than a disgrace! Unknowingly, the XiMen Family's reputation was taken down a notch.

The only two who were extremely depressed were the Xue brothers. The two of them were originally in charge of protecting Yu BingYan, but after Yu ManTian came to Sky Bearing City, the situation took a drastic change! After both of them had been trampled on by Yu ManTian for two days, they found Ling Tian to discuss if they could continue protecting Yu BingYan in the Ling residence. However, they were mercilessly chased out by Ling Tian. From then on, the both of them were the punching bags for Third Master Yu!

The thing which puzzled them the most was the fact that Yu ManTian would always sneak out suspiciously at dawn every day. When he returned in the afternoon, his clothes would definitely be in tatters with bruises all over him! However, his face would be extremely satisfied and full of joy! During this period of time, Yu ManTian's clothes were discarded extremely quickly. Every time he wore a new set of robes out, he would return with his clothes in tatters. He would always leave with a fresh set of clothes but return in a pathetic state, but look extremely happy! In just a short few days, the amount of money spent on changing his clothes amounted to 2000 taels of silver!

Both the Xue brothers were extremely depressed and attempted to question Yu ManTian once. However, the originally happy Yu ManTian immediately flew into a rage and give the both of them a good beating. From then on, the both of them didn't dare to question him any longer.

It wasn't that the both of them didn't think of tailing Yu ManTian. Every time they tried to tail him, they would definitely be spotted and given a good beating! Now, the Xue brothers could no longer be bothered. As long as Yu ManTian was still alive, he could do whatever he wished! As such, both of them would either sleep in or go drinking whenever Yu ManTian left. But every time they went drinking, they would dream about the fragrant wine from the Ling residence and let out a long sigh. From then on, the so-called famed wines in front of them were all tasteless to them.

As for the other families, they all observed the Yu Family's actions calmly. Especially after the various experts suffered under Yu ManTian's hands, they would all gather to await Yu ManTian's return in the afternoon to witness his pathetic appearance. Looking at his pathetic appearance, they would all let out wolf whistles and burst out into laughter, venting their anger from making fun of Yu ManTian. However, Yu ManTian would always be indifferent towards them and would still be full of smiles. At times, he would even join in the fun with the crowd, making everyone feel their actions to be pointless.

At the same time, those brats didn't show any disrespect to Yu ManTian. During his next visit, Ling Chi apologized to Yu ManTian and thanked Yu ManTian for sparing him. In the following spars they had, Yu ManTian could also feel that the few brats purposefully restrained their killing intent to form a suitable sparring environment.