Protect Our Patriarch
Book 5: Chapter 147: Master! Please indulge a little!

……

At the same time that the Hundred Refinements True Monarch went out to greet the guests, a deep blue flying carriage descended from the sky, slowly landing on the large bluestone-paved square outside the Hundred Refinements Hall.

This flying carriage was not the official princess's sedan. Whether in terms of design or the flying horses used to pull it, it was not as ostentatious as the official princess's sedan, clearly used for informal occasions—low-key yet luxurious.

Once the carriage came to a stop, two maids simultaneously lifted the curtain, and the Princess of Suiyun stepped out gracefully with their assistance.

Today, she was not wearing her formal princess attire but a white, gold-embroidered, waist-cinching long dress, which made her seem less unattainably noble and more vibrant and charming.

Yet, even so, her noble demeanor and graceful manners still inspired awe in others, every move exuding royal elegance.

"Suiyun greets the True Monarch."

After stepping off the carriage, the Princess of Suiyun gave a slight bow to the approaching Hundred Refinements True Monarch.

"How could I dare, how could I dare," the Hundred Refinements True Monarch hastily returned the salute, his tone filled with respect and trepidation. "It should be I who pays respects to Your Highness first."

The Hundred Refinements True Monarch dared not truly offend the Princess of Suiyun, and he genuinely revered her.

Ordinary people believed the princess to be gentle and amiable, seemingly never angry, clearly a good-tempered princess. Only those in high positions or who knew the inside story understood how formidable the Princess of Suiyun truly was.

Before advancing to the Divine Realm, she conducted herself steadily, rarely making mistakes. After breaking through to the Divine Realm, she began training on the outer region battlefield, where she first showed her prowess.

From initially managing logistics and learning to leading troops into battle, to now being renowned on the outer region battlefield, she has taken every step steadily, relying on her ability and wisdom to achieve numerous feats for the Immortal Dynasty, earning herself a high reputation.

Her experiences set an excellent example for other royal family members, clan heirs, and even disciples of the Immortal Palace, so outstanding that there was almost nothing to criticize.

Of course, during this process, some old noble families also provided much support to the Princess of Suiyun. The super-grade Wu Clan, for instance, had long made it clear that they supported the Princess of Suiyun, hoping she would become the next Immortal Emperor.

Although the Wu Clan had a good relationship with the Fourth Little Princess Yun Mengyu, they never considered supporting her ascension, as Yun Mengyu was too young. The entire Wu Clan's stance remained staunchly in favor of the Princess of Suiyun.

"The True Monarch is Suiyun's elder and one of the top grandmasters of the Immortal Armament Division. How could Suiyun dare to put on airs before you?" The Princess of Suiyun smiled, her attitude very courteous. "If Suiyun has offended you in any way before, I hope the True Monarch will forgive me."

"Your Highness is a person of great wisdom and virtue, achieving numerous feats on the outer region battlefield. I have nothing but admiration," the Hundred Refinements True Monarch quickly changed the subject. "Your Highness must have come for the Heavenly Melody Dao Sword and the Neon Dress Dao Garment, right? Please, come in. I have just finished repairing them and was about to send them to the princess's residence."

Upon hearing this, the disciples exchanged glances.

Their master had secretly finished the repairs long ago? Didn't he say before that he "absolutely wouldn't repair them" and that "he was the Hundred Refinements True Monarch, not the Hundred Coward True Monarch"?

"You rascals, what are you standing around for? Quickly, bring out the Enlightenment Immortal Tea I've been saving to entertain the princess," the Hundred Refinements True Monarch roared.

The disciples immediately sprang into action, rushing to greet the princess, then scattering to tidy up the tables, find spirit fruits, and brew the Enlightenment Immortal Tea, bustling with activity.

Soon, the somewhat cluttered hall of the Hundred Refinements Hall was tidied up, and the Princess of Suiyun was invited inside.

The Hundred Refinements True Monarch courteously accompanied the Princess of Suiyun for a cup of tea, then brought out the repaired Heavenly Melody Dao Sword and Neon Dress Dao Garment, smiling sheepishly. "Your Highness, these are the two Dao artifacts you entrusted me to repair."

The Princess of Suiyun was very concerned about these two Dao artifacts. She temporarily set aside her thoughts and gracefully summoned the Heavenly Melody Dao Sword with a wave of her delicate hand, injecting a pure strand of profound energy into it.

"Ding~!"

The Heavenly Melody Dao Sword trembled slightly, emitting a melodious chime.

The sound was long and ethereal, like the rhythm of the Dao, making those who heard it feel a sense of clarity and even stabilizing their souls.

This was the unique aspect of the Heavenly Melody Dao Sword.

Its sword chant had the effect of calming the soul, which was very beneficial on the outer region battlefield.

"Good sword, good sword," the Hundred Refinements True Monarch praised endlessly. "I've repaired many Dao swords, but this one is among the best."

"Thank you for your praise, True Monarch," the Princess of Suiyun thanked him and then asked the sword in her hand, "Heavenly Melody, how are you feeling?"

"Sister Princess, I feel great," the Heavenly Melody Dao Sword replied in a melodious voice. "The Hundred Refinements True Monarch's craftsmanship is excellent. Not only did he repair the damage on my blade, but he also fixed some old hidden injuries. Heavenly Melody thanks the Hundred Refinements True Monarch."

The voice of the Spirit Artifact was clear and pleasant, like the sweet chirping of a spirit bird.

"Suiyun thanks the True Monarch," the Princess of Suiyun hastily expressed her gratitude upon hearing this.

"Your Highness is too kind," the Hundred Refinements True Monarch quickly offered the Neon Dress Dao Garment. "Please check your Dao garment as well. I've done my best to repair the previous hidden damages."

Compared to when it was sent, the Neon Dress Dao Garment now looked brand new, with spiritual energy flowing on its surface, restoring its former glory, and even its aura seemed more harmonious.

Clearly, the Hundred Refinements True Monarch had put a lot of effort into it.

This moved the Princess of Suiyun, who quickly stood up and bowed. "I misunderstood the True Monarch. Please don't hold it against me."

"Misunderstood?" The Hundred Refinements True Monarch scratched his gray hair, looking puzzled. "What did Your Highness misunderstand? I don't understand."

"Well…" The Princess of Suiyun felt a bit awkward, hesitated for a moment, but then spoke frankly. "I heard rumors that the True Monarch was unwilling to repair my Dao artifacts and repeatedly made unreasonable demands."

"That did happen," the Hundred Refinements True Monarch admitted honestly. "We technical folks are straightforward. If we're happy, we're happy; if not, we're not. At first, I indeed didn't want to repair these Dao artifacts."

"Is there something Suiyun did to offend you?" the Princess of Suiyun asked with a frown.

"Sigh, it's not related to Your Highness," the Hundred Refinements True Monarch said candidly. "It's just a personal grudge between me and Liu Zhangling. That scoundrel doesn't know a thing, yet he keeps giving orders. My disciple Pei Xin'an is even more straightforward than I am and offended Liu Zhangling several times, resulting in him being ostracized and sent to the countryside of East Qian."

"Because of this, I held a grudge against Liu Zhangling and initially refused to take on this task. Later, upon reflection, I realized I was being unreasonable. Your Highness's Dao artifacts were damaged due to the intensity of the last battle. I heard you were also seriously injured and had to withdraw from the battlefield to recuperate."

"I thought, if Your Highness can fight on the front lines against those outer region demons to protect humanity, how could I, an old man, hold you back?"

The Princess of Suiyun bowed deeply again. "The True Monarch is righteous."

As she spoke, she recalled that last battle before she withdrew. It was a glorious victory, but humanity paid a heavy price.

Her bright phoenix eyes glistened with a hint of moisture, and her expression dimmed.

"Rest assured, I will investigate this matter thoroughly," the Princess of Suiyun said seriously after composing herself. "I will ensure the True Monarch receives a proper explanation."

She couldn't help but recall Liu Zhangling's words when he came to her, which were quite different from what the Hundred Refinements True Monarch said. Clearly, the True Monarch's account seemed more reliable than Liu Zhangling's.

However, regardless of who was right or wrong, she would investigate thoroughly before making a decision.

"Your Highness is busy with many affairs. I heard you'll soon be heading to the outer region battlefield again. Don't let such trivial matters trouble you," the Hundred Refinements True Monarch said magnanimously. "Besides, I heard my disciple Pei Xin'an is doing quite well in East Qian. They say the atmosphere there is much better than in our Immortal Armament Division. If I have the time, I should go and see for myself."

East Qian, East Qian again.

The Princess of Suiyun furrowed her brows slightly.

During her years of recuperation, she had heard countless mentions of East Qian, more than in the previous centuries combined.

It was said that East Qian had developed rapidly in recent years, related to the newly appointed Prince An and a seemingly ordinary but actually extraordinary family.

If not for her limited vacation time, she would have liked to visit East Qian and see the territory of that family.

Next time~

The outer region battlefield was too intense, and everyone had heavy responsibilities. There wasn't much time for her to rest. When she returned victorious next time, she would visit the Eastern Qian Kingdom to relax and experience its changes.

"The True Monarch is indeed magnanimous," the Princess of Suiyun said, putting away the two Dao artifacts. "I will remember this favor. I won't disturb the True Monarch's crafting any longer. Suiyun will take her leave."

"Your Highness, let me see you off," the Hundred Refinements True Monarch said as he escorted her, offering heartfelt advice. "Your Highness, judging by the extent of damage to those two Dao artifacts, that battle must have been very fierce. You are a precious figure, the hope of humanity's future. On the battlefield, please don't put yourself at such risk again."

"Thank you for the reminder, True Monarch," the Princess of Suiyun nodded. "Suiyun will try to avoid getting caught in fierce battles."

In just a few words, the two had become quite friendly, like old friends who hadn't seen each other in years.

The Hundred Refinements True Monarch's series of actions left his disciples in awe.

Ginger, as they say, gets spicier with age. Not only did he flatter the Princess of Suiyun, making her feel quite pleased, but he also managed to subtly undermine Liu Zhangling.

Indeed, when an honest person sets their mind to it, they can be more formidable than any cunning villain.

As they marveled, the Hundred Refinements True Monarch had already escorted the Princess of Suiyun to the door, ready to see her out.

Suddenly.

A deep voice came from outside the Hundred Refinements Hall: "Master, Master, are you home? Your disciple Xin'an has come to see you."

Pei Xin'an?

The disciples immediately reacted, rushing forward to greet him: "Senior Brother Pei is back."

"Junior Brother Pei is back."

Amidst the lively chatter, they warmly welcomed Pei Xin'an and his entourage into the Hundred Refinements Hall. Wang Ningxi and Wang Jidie were naturally among them.

Returning in glory, Old Pei's face was full of pride, and he was much more amiable to his fellow disciples than usual.

"Hmph!"

The Hundred Refinements True Monarch, who had been eagerly anticipating Pei Xin'an's return, now put on a stern face, angrily saying, "You unfilial disciple, how dare you come back? Do you still have any regard for me as your master?"

"Master~" Old Pei rushed forward, hugging the Hundred Refinements True Monarch's leg, crying, "It's my fault, but I had no choice."

"What do you mean, no choice?" the Hundred Refinements True Monarch shouted angrily. "Liu Zhangling sent you to East Qian, and you just went? Why didn't you ask me for help?"

"Master's kindness is as heavy as a mountain to Xin'an. How could Xin'an trouble you?" Old Pei wiped his nose and tears on his master's leg. "It's just East Qian. As long as you have skills, you can shine anywhere."

"Nonsense, do you think I, the Hundred Refinements True Monarch, am afraid of trouble?" The Hundred Refinements True Monarch's face turned livid. "I've never liked causing trouble, but that doesn't mean I'm afraid of it. If someone tries to walk all over me, I won't let it go. Pei Xin'an, you've really embarrassed me."

Seeing the Hundred Refinements True Monarch so angry, seemingly ready to expel Pei Xin'an from the sect, the fellow disciples hurriedly stepped forward to mediate.

Even the Princess of Suiyun, who hadn't had a chance to leave, couldn't help but join in persuading: "True Monarch, Old Pei hasn't made a big mistake this time. Please don't hold it against him."

"Alright, since the princess is pleading, I must give her face," the Hundred Refinements True Monarch said, taking the opportunity to relent. "Pei Xin'an, quickly thank the princess."

"Xin'an thanks Her Highness, the Princess. You are truly my savior," Old Pei immediately expressed his gratitude to the Princess of Suiyun, bowing repeatedly. "I will never forget your great kindness, and I will repay it even if I have to be a cow or a horse in the future."

The Princess of Suiyun was taken aback.

Was this really such a great kindness? Was it really something to never forget? Why did she feel like she was being taken advantage of by this seemingly honest and straightforward master-disciple pair?

"Old Pei, it's just a small matter. Don't take it too seriously," the Princess of Suiyun said helplessly.

"As you command, Your Highness," Old Pei quickly got up.

This scene almost made Wang Ningxi, who was watching, burst out laughing.

Everyone knew Old Pei had a bad temper and a foul mouth, but they didn't know this old man was also quite cunning.

Wang Ningxi, having deep interactions with Old Pei, naturally knew he was a very clever person. Given the chance to curry favor with the Princess of Suiyun, how could he miss it?

However, this old man was quite stubborn and wouldn't curry favor with just anyone.

Moreover, although Old Pei had a bad reputation and a foul temper, once he truly recognized someone, he became very loyal.

As he spoke, he grabbed Wang Ningxi and enthusiastically introduced him to the Princess of Suiyun and the Hundred Refinements True Monarch: "Your Highness, Master, this is Wang Ningxi of the Eastern Qian Changning Wang's Clan. He is a peerless genius, the future star of the refining industry."

Wang Ningxi also politely greeted the two.

He was only about fifty years old now, and having been immersed in refining for years, he exuded a pure and clean aura. His sky-blue robe made him look handsome and dignified, with a touch of ethereal elegance.

The Hundred Refinements True Monarch glanced at Wang Ningxi casually but didn't pay much attention.

He had seen many so-called "refining geniuses" in his life, but none had ever matched his younger self.

True peerless geniuses were not so easily found.

On the other hand, the Princess of Suiyun, unaware of the depths of the refining world, kindly encouraged Wang Ningxi and said, "I've heard of your Changning Wang's Clan. It's quite an impressive family and will surely become a pillar family of the Great Qian and even the entire Immortal Dynasty."

"Thank you for the praise, Your Highness."

Wang Ningxi gracefully bowed in thanks, maintaining a composed demeanor.

"Ahem!"

The Hundred Refinements True Monarch, however, didn't give him much face, coughing and sternly saying, "Since Xin'an speaks so highly of you, you must have some skills. How about this, I'll test you with a few questions. If you answer well, I won't mind mentoring a promising young talent. If not, you'd better go back where you came from and stop hanging around me."

Wang Ningxi had heard of the Hundred Refinements True Monarch's temperament and was mentally prepared. He calmly replied, "I humbly seek your guidance, True Monarch."

He had come with the important mission of persuading the Hundred Refinements True Monarch to return to East Qian. If he didn't show some real skills, how could he succeed?

"Good, youth is formidable," the Hundred Refinements True Monarch thought for a moment and then posed several difficult questions. "These five questions, if you can answer three correctly, you'll pass."

"Ningxi will do his best."

Wang Ningxi maintained his calm demeanor, found a place to sit, and began answering the questions on paper.

Watching this, Princess Huari Wang Jidie couldn't help but chuckle, feeling a sense of satisfaction.

Oh, Forty-Seventh Uncle, even you have to solve test papers now~~

The journey to the Immortal Dynasty had been tough on this pampered little princess, with so much studying that her eyes hurt and her hands ached. The teachers at the clan school would never dare to treat her like this.

While Wang Ningxi was answering the questions.

Wang Jidie, growing impatient, glanced around and finally fixed her gaze on the Princess of Suiyun, her big eyes rolling as she thought: This is also a princess, but she doesn't look that special~

The Princess of Suiyun had intended to leave, but given the situation, it was inappropriate to just walk away. She decided to wait and see the results of Wang Ningxi's answers before leaving.

If he truly was an extraordinary genius and was accepted by the Hundred Refinements True Monarch, she would witness a great story.

However, like Wang Jidie, the princess had no interest in refining and couldn't understand the content Wang Ningxi was working on.

Seeing Wang Jidie blinking her big eyes at her, she smiled warmly and beckoned her over.

"What's your name? Are you also from the Wang Clan?"

The Princess of Suiyun found Wang Jidie, with her delicate features and charming demeanor, quite likable.

"My name is Wang Jidie, the eldest daughter of the 'Ji' generation of the Changning Wang's Clan, an external princess of the Great Qian royal family, titled 'Huari.' They all call me Princess Huari." Wang Jidie curtsied to the Princess of Suiyun, answering earnestly.

Though mischievous, she knew to maintain decorum in such situations, not wanting to embarrass the Wang Clan. Otherwise, even Ancestor Grandfather wouldn't protect her when they returned home.

"Oh, what a coincidence, we're both princesses," the Princess of Suiyun said, gently ruffling the little tuft on Wang Jidie's head, full of joy. "Is that refining genius Wang Ningxi your brother?"

"That's my Forty-Seventh Uncle. My brother is called Wang Fugui. I came to the Immortal Dynasty this time to find my brother," Wang Jidie said, puffing her cheeks in anger at the mention of Wang Fugui. "When I was four, my brother ran off to the Immortal Dynasty and hasn't returned since. They all say he was lured away by a little princess of the Immortal Dynasty."

"Uh… Wang Fugui is your brother?" The Princess of Suiyun was slightly surprised.

She had heard Wang Fugui's name so often that her ears were almost calloused.

"Yes, yes, he's just a stinky brother, a bad brother. When I see him, I'll have Little Green give him a good beating," Wang Jidie said, puffing her cheeks and putting her hands on her hips, revealing a hint of her fierce nature.

While they chatted, Wang Ningxi had quickly completed the five questions and presented his answers to the Hundred Refinements True Monarch.

"Not bad, not bad. Quick thinking, and you got four out of five right. At your age, your refining skills indeed deserve the title of 'genius,'" the Hundred Refinements True Monarch said, his expression softening as he looked at Wang Ningxi with newfound approval.

For true refining geniuses, he was always protective.

Unexpectedly, Wang Ningxi frowned and asked, "May I ask, True Monarch, which question did Ningxi get wrong?"

"It's this one: when there are too many impurities in refined gold, what is the most effective way to extract them?" the Hundred Refinements True Monarch patiently explained. "Your solution is too fanciful and impractical. Even with a fire-type refiner and a water-type refiner working together, it's hard to achieve the water-fire harmony you described, creating a new type of flame. Our usual method is…"

Before he could finish.

A white flame appeared in Wang Ningxi's hand.

The flame flickered with a brilliant glow, yet it rippled like flowing water, neither purely fire nor purely water. Its unique nature instantly captured the Hundred Refinements True Monarch's attention.

"This, this, this… Is this the flame after water-fire harmony? How is this possible?" The Hundred Refinements True Monarch was stunned, his eyes almost glued to it. "Could it be that you have a rare water-fire dual bloodline? No, no, even with a dual bloodline, they would counteract each other, making you a useless person!"

"To report to the True Monarch, Ningxi was fortunate. The clan helped me resolve the bloodline conflict," Wang Ningxi calmly explained. "Given my special bloodline, this method is the most effective for refining impure refined gold. You should count this question as correct."

"Interesting, very interesting~" The Hundred Refinements True Monarch was highly intrigued and began discussing questions directly with Wang Ningxi.

Wang Ningxi, indeed highly talented in refining, often provided the Hundred Refinements True Monarch with insights from unique angles, despite not having as broad a knowledge base.

Pei Xin'an and the other disciples, fascinated, gradually joined the discussion.

With a group of technical experts gathered, the conversation grew more exciting, and before they knew it, more than an hour had passed.

The Princess of Suiyun and Princess Huari, unable to understand their technical discussion, were nearly falling asleep.

It was too boring~

These tech enthusiasts could talk endlessly.

"Alright, alright! Ningxi, is your East Qian really that interesting? I never thought of the refining furnace you mentioned," the Hundred Refinements True Monarch said, barely able to contain his excitement. "Let's go, let's go, let's visit East Qian."

Hearing this.

The drowsy Princess of Suiyun felt a jolt, instantly waking up.

Something was off~ It seemed like Wang Ningxi had ulterior motives.

Suddenly, she recalled Liu Zhangling's previous words about East Qian poaching the Immortal Dynasty's refiners. Could it be that the Wang Clan had set their sights on the Hundred Refinements True Monarch this time?

No, no! If East Qian managed to lure the Hundred Refinements True Monarch away, it would be a big problem.

In an instant, the Princess of Suiyun was no longer sleepy, her spirits lifted, as she began brainstorming ways to prevent this from happening.

……

At the same time.

In the Great Qian, Longzuo Commandery, Changning Garrison.

Over the years, Shouzhe's Small Courtyard remained unchanged, lush with greenery, a scene of vibrant prosperity.

Colorful spirit butterflies and spirit bees raised by the Wang Clan fluttered among the flowers, creating a scene that looked like an immortal's paradise, full of spiritual charm.

In the pavilion within the courtyard, Wang Shouzhe finished reading a secret letter from the direction of the Red Moon Demon Dynasty, frowning in thought.

Demon Plant Venerable?

Who would have thought that Ancestor Long Yan, during her travels, would encounter a True Immortal-level relic?

Such a legacy was indeed highly compatible with him.

Currently, Wang Shouzhe was still cultivating the Green Emperor's True Art from Lingyun Holy Land, without even a single codex.

It wasn't that he hadn't tried to find a way, but codices were different from true law legacies. Inheritance grounds could be used repeatedly; they were there and wouldn't disappear. Even if you sold a chance to inherit once, there would still be a next time.

But a codex, once inherited, would remain in the owner's sea of consciousness to aid in cultivation until the next inheritance.

The Immortal Palace did have wood-type codices. For example, Lu Yao True Monarch from the Liuxian Holy Land was nearing the inheritance period. However, the Immortal Palace's codices were often tied to the position of the Holy Land's master. No matter how generous the Immortal Palace was, they wouldn't let an outsider inherit both the codex and the position of the Holy Land's master. It's not like they didn't have their own successors~

Therefore, at the level of a codex, even the Immortal Palace couldn't be relied upon.

But if luck was on his side this time, he might directly acquire a wood-type Immortal Scripture, which would truly be a game-changer.

Such a temptation made Wang Shouzhe feel extremely tempted, a rare urge to venture out.

He couldn't help but summon the Divine Realm treasure shield, Liu Safety, and said, "Safety, oh Safety, this time, it seems you'll finally have a chance to shine."

Instantly, the treasure shield Liu Safety was moved to tears.

All along, Liu Safety had been most annoyed by impulsive, hot-blooded masters, which is why he chose the calm and cautious Wang Shouzhe.

However, this master was too "safe," staying at home all the time. Forget danger, even getting into a fight was rare. The few times he did fight, it was with his own wife, rendering Liu Safety unnecessary.

Over time, Liu Safety began to yearn for his master to take a risk.

Whatever you want to do, I'll support you all the way, even if it means being shattered to pieces.

For a moment, Liu Safety was so moved that he sobbed, "Boohoo~ I, Liu Safety, finally have a chance to take the stage."

……

Search the lightnovelworld.cc website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.