Chapter 807: Destined to Fail

Zu'an's cultivation level was measured not as remarkably high, but surprisingly low—only sixth-rank. Many believed that while he defeated the Crown Prince of Qi due to a mysterious master hidden in the shadows, allowing him to gain an advantage, his ability to fight the Crown Prince for so long should have placed him at least at seventh-rank or peak sixth-rank. Yet, the result was only sixth-rank.

Officials aligned with the Prince of Qi immediately raised objections, claiming the test was flawed. They were unwilling for the Crown Prince to have such a powerful ally once he entered the secret realm. The Crown Prince's faction, having anticipated this, had many officials ready to engage in a verbal war, fiercely pushing back against the accusations. The dispute became so heated that they nearly resorted to personal insults.

Just then, Qi Yaoguang let out a cold snort. "Are you questioning the Imperial Academy's impartiality towards Zu'an?" she challenged. Her voice, though not loud, possessed an extraordinary piercing quality, quickly bringing silence to the hall.

Officials from the Prince of Qi's faction quickly adopted conciliatory smiles. "Miss Qi, you've misunderstood," they said. "How could we ever doubt the Academy's position? If Zu'an tested as sixth-rank, then sixth-rank he is." They did not wish to offend the Imperial Academy and risk pushing this neutral power toward the Crown Prince's faction. Furthermore, they had already deliberated internally that an individual around seventh-rank would not significantly impact the overall situation. Their previous objections had merely been a pretense to discomfit the Crown Prince's faction.

At that moment, Bi Linglong heard a spiritual energy transmission from her father, Bi Qi, from a distance: "Linglong, did you give him a magic artifact to conceal his cultivation?" Bi Linglong was equally perplexed. "No, I don't possess such a miraculous artifact," she replied.

"Then is his actual cultivation truly only sixth-rank? And does he merely employ unconventional methods that make his combat power far superior to others at the same level?" Bi Qi's tone was laced with conjecture.

"Perhaps," Bi Linglong mused, biting her lip. *Could he truly be only sixth-rank? If so, this expedition into the secret realm could be perilous.* Yet, recalling Zu'an's earnest promise to her that night, she suddenly felt a sense of calm.

Just then, Bi Qi inquired, "The Prince of Qi's faction would at most permit us to include someone of seventh-rank. You've used the slot on him instead of Rong Mo. Is it truly worth it?"

Bi Linglong took a deep breath. "I believe in him!" she declared.

Bi Qi frowned slightly. However, knowing his daughter's consistent capability and foresight, he realized there was no point in pressing the matter further if she was so insistent.

As the father and daughter communicated privately, Gu Xing, on the other hand, reveled in schadenfreude. "For Linglong to hold him in such high regard, I truly thought he was some formidable figure," he scoffed. "But he's barely sixth-rank! Haha, who among us doesn't have a higher cultivation level than he does?" Liu Xian, standing nearby, cleared his throat, indicating he felt offended by the remark.

Gu Heng, however, was less overt in his reaction. He spoke to Bi Linglong in a grave tone: "Crown Princess, you are inherently kind, and perhaps unaware of the treachery among common folk. It's highly probable you were deceived by him earlier."

Bi Linglong frowned. "His strength is definitely higher than sixth-rank," she asserted. Yet, by the end of her statement, her conviction wavered. The Academy's cultivation testing instruments had never been known to fail, and this time, before everyone's eyes, he had indeed tested as sixth-rank.

Gu Xing chuckled mischievously. "Linglong, why are you so certain? In my opinion, some individuals don't focus on genuine cultivation but instead cultivate a public relations team, boasting about their supposed prowess everywhere. Had it not been for today's Imperial Academy test, their charade might never have been exposed."

"It's not entirely improbable," Meng Pan chuckled. "His various exploits have been circulating throughout the capital these past few days. I find it hard to believe there isn't someone pulling strings behind the scenes."

Zhao Xi of the Prince of Liang's manor scoffed, "To think I once held some admiration for him. Turns out he's only at this level."

Liu Xian, however, was unimpressed. "Leaving his cultivation strength aside, his prowess with women is genuinely remarkable," he commented. "Later, I must ask him how he managed to win the favor of Miss Chu with such seemingly ordinary attributes."

The group chattered animatedly. Pu Duandiao and Jiao Sigun felt a surge of indignation, yet given the significant disparity in their social status and the undeniable fact that Zu'an had tested as merely sixth-rank, they found themselves at a loss for how to retort.

At this point, Bi Linglong herself began to waver, her gaze fixed on the figure on the platform with a complex expression. She did not doubt his potential, but potential required time to be realized. If any mistake occurred during the Crown Prince's critical examination, there would be no further opportunities.

Meanwhile, the conversation among the surrounding group had been entirely sidetracked by Liu Xian. Zhao Xi teased, "What, are you now setting your sights on Miss Chu? You were just showering Qi Yaoguang with attention!"

Liu Xian stroked his small mustache. "Of course not," he replied. "Married women aren't my type. I prefer those who are emotionally gentle and truly pure. I've decided: Miss Qi is my next target. I'll enroll in the Imperial Academy, join her class, and pursue her advantageously."

Meng Pan scoffed. "Give it a rest. Students at the Imperial Academy are all exceptionally talented, and Miss Qi is a direct disciple of the Chancellor. She typically only teaches students qualified to enter the back mountain. You definitely stand no chance."

Zhao Xi's voice was also filled with admiration. "Miss Qi is truly both beautiful and capable. At such a young age, she became the Chancellor's personal disciple, and crucially, she can even glimpse heavenly secrets. She is undeniably powerful and enigmatic."

"Glimpsing heavenly secrets?" Liu Xian finally reacted. "No wonder she knew what I was thinking earlier! Haha, such a woman only increases the thrill of conquest."

The others rolled their eyes, disinclined to indulge his daydreaming, and the group resumed their own conversations:

"After emerging from the secret realm, I intend to pursue further studies at the Imperial Academy. I only studied there superficially for two years, and now I somewhat regret not having grasped the Academy's most fundamental teachings."

"Indeed, I share that idea. I've heard there will be a selection exam for the Academy's back mountain soon. Given our qualifications, we should be able to apply directly. Only by gaining entry to the back mountain can we learn advanced cultivation techniques from the Chancellor's direct disciples."

"Which teacher do you intend to study under? Personally, I enjoy chess, so Teacher Heibaizi's mastery of the game is most alluring to me."

"I'm hoping to become a disciple of Teacher Shen Xuzi. You see, in the later stages of cultivation, elixirs play a significant supplementary role. Plus, I've heard he can create combat puppets; imagine my fighting strength increasing severalfold if I had a few of those!"

"Personally, I'm more inclined towards Teacher Jiang Luofu. She's a master of law, and her cultivation is remarkably profound. I'm certain I'd achieve significant improvement if I studied under her."

"Hmph, you want to learn law? We're not interested in exposing your true intentions."

"Still, Teacher Jiang's long, black-stockinged legs are simply divine. Who wouldn't want to study under her?"

Although they had quietly lowered their voices, Bi Linglong, being so close, heard everything clearly. Noticing the Gu brothers also joining the conversation with suggestive smiles, she felt utterly exasperated, concluding that these wretched men were indeed nothing but lechers.

At that moment, Pei You coldly interjected, "You're still being choosy. The selection exam for the Academy's back mountain is extremely rigorous; only one-in-ten-thousand geniuses pass it. You'd be lucky if any teacher were willing to take you on."

"True, I'm not even sure if I can pass that selection exam myself."

"Heavens above, I'd be eternally grateful just to be accepted by any teacher."

Considering the difficulty of gaining admission to the Academy's back mountain, the group's previous high spirits deflated, leaving them looking as crestfallen as frost-bitten eggplants.

Just then, someone with keen eyesight remarked, "Hey, aren't those teachers from the Academy's back mountain?"

"Yes, it's Shen Xuzi, Heibaizi, Wang Weiyang, and Yin Shi. Wow, and those long legs in black stockings—that must be Jiang Luofu!"

"Huh, why are so many back-mountain teachers here? It's been ages since we've witnessed such a grand assembly."

Gu Xing reacted swiftly, immediately showering them with flattery: "Of course, with the Crown Prince and Crown Princess embarking on their journey, the Academy naturally comes to show its support." Though others privately considered that the Academy usually maintained neutrality and shouldn't overtly favor the Crown Prince, they couldn't conceive of any other reason for such a gathering, so they joined in the chorus of agreement. Simultaneously, each discreetly straightened their attire and puffed out their chests, thinking how fortunate they were to be in the presence of the Crown Prince and Crown Princess. They resolved to make a good impression when the teachers came to greet them, hoping to catch their eye and perhaps secure direct admission.

Just then, Zu'an descended from the high platform, came over to Bi Linglong's side, and smiled, nodding at her. Bi Linglong thought, *He seems quite composed. I hope he maintains this demeanor inside the secret realm.*

The other young masters from various noble families, who had previously been cold towards Zu'an, now had no inclination to acknowledge him. Even the Gu brothers had lost interest in saying anything further, all of them puffing out their chests and eagerly watching the back-mountain teachers approach. Gu Xing, ever the most proactive, immediately rushed forward to greet them. "Teachers, are you here to bid farewell to the Crown Prince and Crown Princess?" he offered. "They are over there; I can escort you."

The others inwardly cursed him for being sly, yet one by one, they emulated his actions, rushing forward to ingratiate themselves. However, the teachers maintained stern expressions, appearing completely indifferent to their overtures. The young masters of the noble families displayed no trace of dissatisfaction; rather, they accepted it as a matter of course. They understood that the Imperial Academy had always disregarded family background in favor of talent, especially the Chancellor's direct disciples in the back mountain, who were known for their arrogance. Even if their own fathers were present, these teachers would likely maintain the same aloof demeanor, let alone toward them, mere juniors.

The teachers, led by Shen Xuzi, approached the Crown Prince and Crown Princess, offering a perfunctory cupped-hand salute as their greeting. Then, their gazes shifted and settled on Zu'an, who stood nearby. The indifference on their faces instantly dissolved, replaced by expressions of eager cordiality:

"Mr. Zu, why didn't you inform us of your arrival at the Academy? I've been experimenting with that steam engine you mentioned last time, and it feels as though it has opened up an entirely new realm!"

"Fourth brother, don't monopolize him! Make way... Mr. Zu, I've made headway with the male sterile plant you mentioned previously. Perhaps I'll even locate it by the time you emerge from the secret realm. I'll certainly need your further guidance for the subsequent research."

"Hmph, step aside, all of you! Mr. Zu has already promised to play chess with me after he emerges."

"What's the point of chess? A philosophical discussion is far better; only then can one deduce the ultimate truths of the universe."

The few individuals quickly fell into a heated argument. Zu'an seized the opportunity to approach Jiang Luofu. "Sister, why did you come?" he asked. "I was worried it might affect your family's relationship with the Prince of Qi."

Jiang Luofu smiled, pressing her lips together. "I was a little concerned at first, but coming alongside them has alleviated that worry," she replied.

"That's true indeed," Zu'an chuckled.

"Eighth Senior Sister, you must be careful. This fellow is a true charmer. Don't let him deceive you into bed. It would be quite unfortunate if you were to become pregnant and then he abandoned you," Qi Yaoguang's head popped out from seemingly nowhere.

Jiang Luofu's face darkened with exasperation. "If you don't know how to use idioms, don't misuse them," she retorted. "You should mind your own business. You're so naive all the time; *you're* the type who'd get tricked into pregnancy and not even realize it."

"Oh, I'm still so young! Why are you talking about such improper things to me? I'm going to tell the teacher!"

The Gu brothers and other young nobles standing nearby were utterly dumbfounded. What was this scene before their eyes? Their cool, aloof idols, both male and female, seemed to have transformed, their attitudes toward Zu'an becoming not just enthusiastic, but even... fawning? Seeing their dejected expressions, Bi Linglong couldn't help but let her lips curl into a slight smile. For some reason, she found the moment more gratifying than if she had achieved a personal victory.

Hmph, a bunch of self-righteous fools.

In the Prince of Qi's camp at a distance, Chu Youzhao observed Jiang Luofu and Qi Yaoguang gathered around Zu'an, and her gaze involuntarily fixed on those striking, long, black-stockinged legs. Beside her, Murong Qinghe's voice was filled with admiration. "Teacher Jiang's legs are truly long and beautiful. Even as a woman, I can't help but adore them."

"Hmph, she's merely a vixen. My sister's legs are just as beautiful, but she doesn't dress so revealingly in public," Chu Youzhao scoffed.

Murong Qinghe's expression turned slightly odd. *Are there truly men in this world who dislike Jiang Luofu's long, black-stockinged legs?* However, she didn't dwell on it, simply assuming Chu Youzhao's reaction was due to her sister.

Just then, Chu Youzhao spoke. "Come, follow me." Murong Qinghe didn't understand the reason but followed nonetheless.

Before Chu Youzhao even reached Zu'an, she loudly called out from a distance, "Brother-in-law, I've finally found you!" She deliberately emphasized the words "brother-in-law," as if to remind the other women that he was a married man.

Zu'an turned, a smile touching his lips when he saw her. "Ah, it's Youzhao," he said.

Chu Youzhao approached, subtly nudging Jiang Luofu and Qi Yaoguang aside. She then pulled a bag from her pouch and began stuffing numerous items into Zu'an's arms. "Brother-in-law, these are things I've prepared for you," she explained. "I hope they'll be helpful for your journey into the secret realm. These are pastries; food might be a problem once you're inside. This is insect repellent to ward off pests. This is medicine to reduce fever and detoxify, in case you catch a fever. These are healing remedies for both internal and external injuries; you're bound to face many battles, so it's best to be prepared. And these are antidotes, which will offer some protection against venomous insects and plants..."

"Thank you, Youzhao." Seeing her produce such a variety of items, Zu'an felt a momentary sense of déjà vu. He recalled how Ji Xiaoxi had similarly provided him with supplies during the Bright Moon Academy's secret realm expedition, and those provisions had ultimately saved his life.

"Brother-in-law, there's no need for formalities," she said. "My sister told me to take good care of you when she left." As she spoke, she deliberately cast a challenging glance at Jiang Luofu and Qi Yaoguang, thinking to herself that she must protect her brother-in-law from these vixen-like women.

From a distance, the members of the Prince of Qi's faction observed the scene and began to whisper among themselves. Murong Tong approached Qin Zheng, grinning. "Raising daughters truly is a money pit," he remarked. "Even their children's loyalties lean outward. Chu Chuyan has already divorced Zu'an, yet Youzhao still affectionately calls him 'brother-in-law' and showers him with gifts, proving that Chu Chuyan's relationship with him is still quite good."

Qin Zheng's face turned livid. "Youzhao is truly disgraceful!" he seethed. "She's completely ruining her sister's reputation!"

Rage value from Qin Zheng: 358358358...

Murong Tong, standing nearby, smiled complacently. He had been experiencing a streak of bad luck recently, but watching his old friend's children each demonstrate disloyalty, he finally found a glimmer of amusement.

Just then, Murong Qinghe handed a pouch to Zu'an. "Big Brother Zu, I don't have much to offer," she said, "so please take this storage pouch. It can hold quite a lot; all of Brother Chu's items can fit inside, making it convenient to carry."

Zu'an felt a warmth in his heart. "Thank you, Sister Qinghe," he replied. Although he possessed a Glazed Pearl with even greater storage capacity, it was not convenient to use openly. With the pouch she gifted him, he could now freely store and retrieve items without drawing attention.

Murong Qinghe's face flushed slightly. "Big Brother Zu, you're too polite," she murmured. "I've been relying on your care and assistance these past few days."

From a distance, Murong Tong's smile froze on his face. Qin Zheng, his earlier vexation completely dispelled, stroked his beard and burst into laughter. "Indeed," he chuckled, "daughters are truly money pits!"

Murong Tong was speechless. He had not anticipated such a swift reversal of fortune.

Rage value from Murong Tong: 399399399...

Soon, it was time to enter the secret realm. The group of ministers, led by the Prince of Qi, regardless of their true sentiments, verbally wished the Crown Prince a triumphant success. Knowing the Crown Prince was not adept at handling such interactions, Bi Linglong responded on his behalf. After a period of subtle, underlying tension between the two factions, the Prince of Qi's gaze settled on Zu'an. "Sir Zu," he addressed him, "we will be relying on you greatly for this expedition into the secret realm."

Upon hearing his words, many young masters and experts from various noble families, including the Gu brothers, displayed indignation. *Why him?! He's merely a sixth-rank cultivator; are we truly to rely on him?*

Rage value from Zhao Xi: 477!Rage value from Meng Pan: 477!Rage value from Pei You: 477!

Among them were quite a few astute individuals, and some quickly grasped a crucial point: *Why did the Prince of Qi hold him in such high regard?* Despite belonging to different factions, they all acknowledged the Prince of Qi's formidable power. He was the head of the opposing faction, a figure on par with the Emperor himself. Even their fathers, or even grandfathers, would have to show him deference. Yet, he was showing such concern for a mere Zu'an?

As someone also within the imperial palace, Bi Linglong was well aware that the Prince of Qi and Zu'an had already clashed several times, with the Prince failing to gain the upper hand. Therefore, it was entirely normal for him to regard Zu'an with newfound respect. However, the Prince deliberately chose this moment to express his regard for Zu'an, clearly intending to sow discord within their ranks.

Zu'an felt no disturbance in his heart despite the constant influx of rage values in the background. He no longer paid any mind to these individuals. "Prince of Qi, rest assured," he declared, "I will certainly help the Crown Prince successfully complete this grand examination."

The Prince of Qi's eyes narrowed instantly. After a long pause, he spoke meaningfully: "It's commendable for young people to have ambition, but excessive pride can easily lead to downfall."

Zu'an replied with a smile, "Aside from me, the Crown Prince's entourage includes numerous experts from noble families. Wouldn't it be easy to hunt down a Heavenscale Azure Moon Dragon? Why does the Prince of Qi seem to doubt our success? Could it be that you've made certain arrangements that will lead to our downfall?"

Initially, Zhao Xi, Meng Pan, and their companions unconsciously puffed out their chests upon hearing Zu'an praise them, thinking, *This fellow certainly knows how to flatter.* To their shock, he immediately stated that the Prince of Qi had laid traps for them. Everyone's expressions changed dramatically. *Did this greenhorn not understand the rules of officialdom? In the imperial court, even if two individuals were mortal enemies, they were expected to maintain civility on the surface.* Speaking his mind so bluntly, he was clearly a coarse individual from the common populace. They were all filled with disdain, while simultaneously worrying that the Prince of Qi might turn hostile, which would likely lead to them all suffering collateral damage.

Rage value from Zhao Xi: 222Rage value from Meng Pan: 222!Rage value from Pei You: 222!

Surprisingly, the Prince of Qi did not appear angry. Instead, he smiled genially. "Sir Zu, you worry too much," he said. "I was merely offering a reminder. I wish you all a smooth journey once again." Even Bi Linglong, who loathed him, had to concede that it was no wonder the Prince of Qi commanded such high prestige both within court and among the populace; his magnanimity was indeed extraordinary.

Soon, Zhu Xie Chixin approached, seemingly concerned that the Prince of Qi might harbor ill intentions towards them. The Emperor did not attend in person today, instead sending trusted ministers such as Meng Yi, Bi Qi, and Zhu Xie Chixin. However, with them guarding the secret realm's entrance, there was no need to fear any trickery from the Prince of Qi's faction on site.

Just then, Qi Yaoguang slowly ascended the high platform. Her formerly sleepy eyes transformed, becoming as beautiful and profound as the starry sky. Holding an astrolabe, she chanted incantations. Soon, wave-like ripples emanated through the surrounding air. Those with profound cultivation could feel the vital energy around them undergoing intense changes, as if space itself was beginning to restructure.

The mustachioed Liu Xian's eyes widened in disbelief. "Shouldn't the Chancellor be the one to open the secret realm?" he exclaimed. "Miss Qi... can she really do it?" Indeed, he wasn't alone in his skepticism. Qi Yaoguang's appearance was remarkably youthful, almost childlike, resembling the innocent young ladies from various noble families. It was genuinely difficult to reconcile her with the monumental task of controlling a secret realm.

As the Crown Princess, Bi Linglong possessed more comprehensive information. Upon hearing their doubts, she explained, "Qi Yaoguang is the Chancellor's personal disciple. She studies extremely profound and mysterious subjects like Ziwei Dou Shu and the cycles of fate. Therefore, you absolutely must not judge a person by their appearance."

"Furthermore, this Academy's secret realm opens once every four years, and the Academy boasts centuries of experience in managing it. Naturally, there's no need for the Chancellor to personally oversee its opening."

Liu Xian's lips curved into his signature greasy smile once more. "I'm growing increasingly interested in Miss Qi," he declared. "After I emerge from the secret realm, I will absolutely use my masculine charm to thoroughly conquer her."

The others around him rolled their eyes. Zhao Xi, burly and outspoken, retorted directly, "Stop talking! I'm about to throw up my breakfast."

Liu Xian snorted. "How would a crude man like you ever understand the heart of a young lady?" he sneered. "Speaking to you about this is like casting pearls before swine."

"What did you say?!" Zhao Xi was instantly enraged by the remark, rolling up his sleeves and preparing to confront him. Liu Xian reacted swiftly, immediately shrinking behind his cousin. Gao Ying, looking exasperated, could only step in front of Zhao Xi. Zhao Xi frowned. Gao Ying was well-known, and his cultivation had just been tested as peak sixth-rank; if they truly clashed, Zhao Xi might not come out favorably. However, letting the matter drop so easily was also against his pride, leaving him momentarily in a dilemma. Meng Pan, standing nearby, had always been at odds with Zhao Xi and was secretly eager for them to fight, almost to the point of openly cheering them on. Pei You stood at a distance, cradling his sword with an air of indifference. The Gu brothers, meanwhile, were openly excited. They yearned to see the scions of these top families clash, ideally to the death, so that second-tier families like their own might finally have a chance to rise.

Bi Linglong finally couldn't bear it any longer. "What are you doing?" she demanded, visibly annoyed. "Do you still have any respect for the Crown Prince and me? You're starting to quarrel before we've even entered!" Zhao Xi, Liu Xian, and the others quickly took the opportunity to back down, simultaneously offering her their apologies.

Zu'an, standing nearby, paid little attention to their minor squabble. He was instead pondering a detail: Qi Yaoguang had just stated the secret realm opened once every four years, yet Jiang Luofu had previously mentioned the last opening was three years ago. This implied that it wasn't yet time for this particular opening. It appeared to have been opened a year early for the Crown Prince's grand examination. But would doing so truly not cause problems? It was well known that secret realms were essentially spatial rifts, connecting to independent worlds. A single mishap could mean they would never return. However, Zu'an observed that the Academy seemed unconcerned about this, and he reasoned that if there were genuine problems, the Emperor would hardly remain indifferent. Thus, he concluded it was likely fine... or so he hoped.

Soon, a shimmering light gate, resembling a wormhole, appeared before them. Bi Linglong waved her hand, and Pu Duandiao and Jiao Sigun led a contingent of Eastern Palace guards inside to scout the situation. Zhao Xi and the others also gestured, sending a portion of their subordinates to follow and assist. Not long after, Pu Duandiao and the others' voices echoed from within: "All clear." Bi Linglong then nodded, signaling the nearby guards to assist the Crown Prince in entering.

Seeing this, the Gu brothers and others quickly crowded around her, feigning an eagerness to protect her. Zhao Xi, Meng Pan, and others similarly moved closer to the Crown Prince. Since he and the Crown Princess were the most important figures present, their safety naturally took precedence. Observing the crowd jostling to curry favor, Zu'an merely smiled. He saw no need to join them and decided instead to remain at the rear to cover their advance.

To his surprise, Bi Linglong turned and waved him over. "Sir Zu, why haven't you come yet?" she called. "The Crown Prince's safety and mine depend on you!" Those who had been squabbling around him now cast envious, jealous, and resentful glances his way. *How could the Crown Princess place such immense trust in this fellow? Is it merely because he's a pretty boy? Miss Chu acts this way, and now the Crown Princess does too. Hmph, are all women truly so superficial?* Seeing the continuous influx of rage values in the background, Zu'an couldn't help but offer a wry smile. This woman was truly putting him on the spot. However, he also understood her reasoning. With unknown dangers lurking in the secret realm and, more critically, the uncertainty of the Prince of Qi's schemes, every step had to be taken with extreme caution. She would naturally feel most secure with the person she trusted most by her side.

Watching them enter the secret realm one by one, Chu Youzhao, from a distance, wore a peculiar expression. "Does the Crown Princess have feelings for my brother-in-law?" she wondered aloud.

"Surely not," Murong Qinghe startled, quickly gesturing for her to speak via spiritual transmission instead. "Given the previous rumors about the Crown Princess and Big Brother Zu, if there were any truth to them, she should be even more careful to avoid suspicion. Her current actions, in fact, prove her clear conscience. Besides, she is the esteemed Crown Princess; it's only you who constantly treats your brother-in-law like such a prize, as if everyone is trying to snatch him."

Chu Youzhao instantly bristled. "Is my brother-in-law not good enough, or lacking in charm?" she retorted.

"Big Brother Zu is quite good," Murong Qinghe conceded, secretly glancing at Chu Youzhao. Seeing his handsome face, with his rosy lips and white teeth, her own pretty face couldn't help but blush. She secretly added in her heart, *In my heart, you're the best.*

Once Zu'an and his group entered the secret realm, these individuals, being elites meticulously selected from various families, naturally possessed prior experience in other secret realms. Consequently, upon entry, they quickly established clear divisions of labor and formed a disciplined formation. From the noble family disciples, several scouts were chosen and swiftly dispersed in all directions to reconnoiter and provide early warnings. The outer ring comprised the remaining noble warriors, the middle section consisted of the Eastern Palace guards led by Pu Duandiao, and the innermost core contained the Crown Prince, Crown Princess, and Zu'an, among others.

The group, having already completed their intelligence work, soon arrived at the Emerald Water Cold Pond, the known habitat of the Heavenscale Azure Moon Dragon. Everyone was exceptionally tense, bracing themselves for a bloody battle. Unfortunately, no matter what bait they cast, the Emerald Water Cold Pond remained utterly still. Next, they unleashed elemental attacks into the Emerald Water Cold Pond, hoping to provoke the creature and draw it out. Alas, the water's surface remained perfectly still. Finally, they even dispatched death warriors to search underwater, yet still found no trace of the Heavenscale Azure Moon Dragon.

"That creature is definitely not here; there are no lingering traces of its aura," Zu'an stated. Still uneasy, he squatted by the edge of the cold pond, only withdrawing his hand from the water after a long moment. He had just attempted to use his jade cong to summon small fish within the cold pond for reconnaissance, but alas, there wasn't a single fish or shrimp. Fortunately, he still possessed his Blue Duck skill, which granted him a powerful affinity for water elements. By sensing the water element fluctuations within the pond, he concluded that no Heavenscale Azure Moon Dragon was present.

Meng Pan, standing nearby, secretly muttered, "What a pretense. Even the death warriors have already gone down to check. We hardly need you to tell us it's not here." Zu'an merely smiled, offering no defense.

"What do we do now?" Bi Linglong's delicate brows furrowed. The Crown Prince's primary examination task was to hunt the Heavenscale Azure Moon Dragon, but with no target to be found, did this not signify the examination was destined to fail?