The Sect Leader Has Taken in a New Female Disciple

At this moment, Fu Kui's gaze fell on Cao Zhengyang, and he slightly narrowed his eyes, pondering, "Have we done business before?"

Cao Zhengyang, upon hearing this, smiled even more broadly and hurriedly replied, "Haha, not just once. However, senior, you are always busy with endless affairs, so each encounter has been brief and thus perhaps not very memorable."

Fu Kui listened and showed a hint of apology on his face, saying, "Sorry, I'm getting old and forgetful!"

He was merely the old steward of Zhang Mansion and rarely managed affairs. Moreover, the region Lingyun Mansion encompassed was vast, and there were countless sects like Taiqing Sect.

Cao Zhengyang quickly said, "It's alright, senior, you are too courteous. By the way, Mr. Zhang has come this time to find Zhou Qing, right?"

Of course, he was aware of Zhou Qing and Yan Xiaohu's trip to Lingyun Mansion. It was during their return that they were unfortunately attacked insidiously by Qian Dafu and Ghost Daoist.

Zhang Wanbao, upon hearing Cao Zhengyang's inquiry, nodded repeatedly, eyes full of eagerness and anticipation. He was anxious to give the two a surprise.

Cao Zhengyang noticed this and showed a hint of difficulty on his face. He then slightly turned to eye Xuanyuan Yichen and Xuanyuan Muqian, who were hastily approaching.

With a smile then appearing on his face, he bowed and said, "Greetings to the Seventh Prince and the Ninth Princess!"

Zhang Wanbao and Fu Kui were immediately stunned; they couldn't believe these two belonged to the royal family.

Xuanyuan Yichen quickly returned the gesture, his expression urgent and concerned, saying, "Sorry to trouble you, Sect Leader Cao. I need to know, was Zhou Qing's Golden Core really shattered?"

As these words left his mouth, Zhang Wanbao's pupils contracted instantly in disbelief, feeling as though he was glued to the spot, unable to move.

Cao Zhengyang sighed helplessly, slowly nodded, and said with a grave expression, "Yes, the situation was critical at the time. We barely managed to save his life despite our best efforts."

He then glanced at the stunned Zhang Wanbao and continued, "It happened during his return from Lingyun Mansion when he was attacked. This is a long story, better left for another time. Since you've all come, let's go inside first."

With that, Cao Zhengyang made a gesture inviting them in.

Just as the barrier was being opened, he suddenly had a feeling and looked up towards the sky.

Another grand silver warship approached rapidly like a meteor. Moments later, the ship landed smoothly.

Following this, the cabin door opened, and a graceful middle-aged man stepped out steadily.

Two women closely followed him.

One appeared cute and charming with lively eyes, while the other exuded mature allure, particularly with an ample bosom, showcasing an elegant and seductive presence.

Seeing him, Cao Zhengyang was visibly surprised. He hurriedly walked forward to greet, "Xiao, why have you come?"

Indeed, the person was Lingyun Mansion Master Xiao Ji, accompanied by his daughter Xiao Cancan and her best friend Li Shitao.

Due to the Four Flowers Gathering at the Crown incident happening within Lingyun Mansion's jurisdiction, it was of paramount importance amid the current attention from various forces.

Moreover, Xiao Cancan had rarely left Lingyun Mansion, always residing there. Hence, he seized this chance to take her out to see the world.

Li Shitao, upon hearing about this, insisted on coming along, wanting to visit friends in the area.

Xiao Ji saw Cao Zhengyang and smiled warmly, immediately returning the greetings, "Cao, it's been years since our last meeting!"

"Indeed, it's been over a century since our last parting. Xiao, your presence at Taiqing Sect today truly brings honor!"

Cao Zhengyang's face was full of gleeful concealment, his words brimming with warmth.

While they exchanged pleasantries, Zhang Wanbao spotted Xiao Ji and hurriedly dashed over to greet respectfully, "Uncle Xiao, you have arrived as well. We just got here too."

Xiao Cancan, standing aside, pouted upon seeing Fatty Zhang, folded her arms, and snorted coldly, seemingly displeased with Zhang Wanbao.

Seeing this, Xiao Ji unceremoniously flicked Zhang Wanbao's forehead, pretending to admonish, "Of course you knew we were coming, no need for pretense here."

Zhang Wanbao, embarrassed by the flick, scratched his head and dared not say more.

But Xiao Ji's attention soon turned to the people ahead. Recognizing their faces, his expression changed slightly. He quickly adjusted his attire, stepped forward to bow, and respectfully said, "Greetings to the Fourth Prince, Seventh Prince, and Ninth Princess!"

Upon hearing this, Cao Zhengyang, Fu Kui, and others turned in shock towards the unassuming White Crane, never imagining that this seemingly ordinary person would be the Fourth Prince of the Holy Martial Dynasty.

Elder Wuzhu behind them stood stupefied, eyes widened in disbelief.