As the seventh princess of the dynasty, Ling Baishuang had many people at her command. With just a word from her, everything was set in motion.
In less than half an hour, a gilded invitation was presented to her.
"Princess, this is the invitation to the banquet for Chu Zhenzhuan, hosted by Elder Cangming at Xuanguan. The gifts are also prepared, and I will accompany you," the old man in the blue shirt said respectfully.
"I understand. Thank you for your hard work," she replied.
"It's my duty to manage these affairs," the old man bowed and, seeing that the princess had no further orders, quietly stepped away.
Soon, Ling Baishuang was left alone in the hall.
"Chu Mo…" she murmured, glancing at the invitation card before her.
After a moment of contemplation, a spark of realization lit up her eyes. "If this person is reliable, perhaps there's an opportunity here..."
...
Meanwhile, in the mansion of the third prince, Ling Xiao was warmly entertaining a young warrior.
"Brother Zhang, I owe my success in obtaining the Cangyuan Pearl to your assistance. Without you, I might have missed out on this treasure!" the third prince expressed gratefully.
"Your Highness is too kind. I merely helped out a bit. Even without my assistance, you would have secured it," the young warrior replied with a modest smile.
Despite his ordinary appearance, the young warrior, serving as an inner disciple of the Taixuan Holy Land, possessed a determined gaze that revealed his strong character. Anyone who looked at him could immediately sense his resolute spirit.
If Gu Xuan were present, he would recognize this young warrior as Zhang Fan.
Since the opportunity that was rightfully his had been taken away, Zhang Fan had been feeling restless and unable to focus on his training. To clear his mind, he left the sect, hoping to find some opportunities along the way.
Unexpectedly, while wandering through a forest, he felt a sudden tremor from a jade pendant he carried. It led him to the third prince, who was also in search of the Cangyuan Pearl. Zhang Fan stepped in to assist.
The third prince, known for his appreciation of talent, was impressed by Zhang Fan's help in obtaining the treasure. After some conversation, he learned that Zhang Fan was a disciple of the Taixuan Holy Land, and he eagerly invited him to the imperial city.
Zhang Fan, eager to forge a connection, readily accepted the invitation.
On their way back, they chatted amiably. Although Zhang Fan's cultivation was only at the True Spiritual Realm, he spoke eloquently, often impressing the third prince with his insights. Before long, the third prince held him in high regard.
"Brother Zhang, you're far too modest!" the third prince said enthusiastically.
Though they hadn't known each other long, the third prince sensed that Zhang Fan was destined for greatness.
Hearing the prince's praise, Zhang Fan felt a mix of pride and humility. In the Taixuan Holy Land, he was surrounded by talented individuals, especially during the time when Gu Xuan and Su Lianyue were recognized as True Inheritors, which left a lasting impression on him.
Even with the jade to seek opportunities, he found it hard to feel superior.
However, being valued by a noble third prince of the Tai'an Dynasty made him feel a bit proud.
Yet, he remained sensible and didn't let it go to his head, humbling himself once more.
As they continued their conversation, an old man arrived, whispering something to the third prince.
After the old man spoke, he turned and left, leaving the third prince visibly excited.
"Brother Zhang, what a coincidence that you're in the Imperial City at this time!"
"I just received word that Elder Cangming, who resides at Xuanguan, will host a banquet tonight to welcome a True Inheritor from the Holy Land of Absolute Beginning. I have an invitation, and you should come with me tonight."
"It just so happens that you're also a disciple of the Holy Land of Absolute Beginning. You might have the chance to make a connection with him."
A True Inheritor from the Holy Land of Absolute Beginning?
Zhang Fan felt a surge of interest. If he could really befriend or even connect with this person, it could bring him significant benefits.
However, he didn't want to appear overly eager. Instead, he feigned a reserved demeanor. "Is that... appropriate?"
"What's the problem? Brother Zhang, come with me tonight, and I'll introduce you to Elder Cangming!" the third prince insisted, waving his hand decisively.
"In that case..."
"Thank you, Your Highness!" Zhang Fan said, smoothly agreeing to the plan.
...
In the evening, the lights are on.
The Tai'an Imperial City lives in Xuanguan. At this time, the lights are bright and a grand dinner is being held.
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From time to time, luxurious chariots rolled into the venue, carrying warriors who were either elegantly dressed or exuded an imposing presence. These individuals were often the children of princes and nobles from the imperial city or renowned powerhouses within the dynasty. They had gathered here upon hearing that a true disciple from the Taixuan Holy Land was attending, hoping to make a favorable impression.
Naturally, it would be even better if they could establish a connection with this True Inheritor.
A True Inheritor from a Holy Land held a prestigious status, nearly equivalent to that of the emperor of the Tai'an Dynasty. If they could catch the eye of such an esteemed figure, it would not only allow them to navigate the Tai'an Dynasty with ease but also earn them respect from the major forces, who would be wary of neglecting them.
Given this atmosphere, many young and powerful heirs flocked to the event.
At this moment, the two main figures, Elder Cangming and Gu Xuan, had yet to arrive, leaving the attendees to mingle and chat among themselves.
"The third prince is here!" a voice rang out.
Ling Xiao entered the hall, accompanied by Zhang Fan.
"Your Highness!"
"I never expected to see you here!"
"I greet you, Your Highness!"
Young disciples and powerful figures from the imperial city rushed forward to pay their respects.
The third prince greeted them with a warm smile and began introducing Zhang Fan to the crowd.
As the attendees learned of Zhang Fan's close association with the third prince, they began to shower him with praise. Words like "young hero," "promising future," and "valuable asset" flowed freely.
Zhang Fan had never experienced such attention before. Although he felt a bit overwhelmed by the compliments, he couldn't hide the smile that spread across his face.
Just then, a voice rang out, "Elder Cangming is here! The Holy Land of Absolute Beginning, Chu Zhenzhuan has arrived!"
The announcement echoed through the hall, and suddenly, silence fell over the crowd.
Everyone turned their gaze toward the entrance, anticipation palpable in the air.
Zhang Fan, who had been smiling just moments before, felt his expression freeze at the mention of the name.
"Chu Zhenzhuan?" A troubling thought suddenly crossed his mind.