C20 Retreating

"The only flaw is that this cultivation technique has never been seen in the world before, so no one has practiced it. As a result, its authenticity and potential risks are unknown."

Ling Jing looked at Ning Que with concern.

He partly hoped that Ning Que would choose the Treading on Waves technique, as he himself practiced it and was confident that Ning Que could quickly ascend to the Soul Emperor status, allowing Ling Jing to be reborn sooner.

Yet, when it came to potential, Ocean's Embrace far surpassed Treading on Waves.

The two techniques differed: one was reliable, the other, a gamble. But, naturally, if all went well, the rewards would be significantly greater.

"Ling Jing, you know my thirst for power."

Ning Que furrowed his brow, pondered deeply, and then inhaled sharply, indicating he had reached a decision.

"My ambitions extend beyond becoming a Soul Emperor. In this world, where power reigns supreme, I too aim to reach the pinnacle."

Ning Que spoke with a calmness that belied the gravity of his words.

"In life, there are unavoidable responsibilities; things that must be protected."

"If no one has cultivated this technique before, then I shall be the first."

Images of Ning Chaoping, Ning Xian'er, and their displaced tribespeople flashed through Ning Que's mind. He clenched his fists, then chuckled at himself, "Carrying a great hidden danger already, what's one more? Cultivating Ocean's Embrace is just adding to the pile."

"Since you've decided, I fully support you. But I won't be able to offer much guidance on your cultivation journey from here on out."

Ling Jing nodded slightly, exhaling a sigh of relief, his curiosity piqued by this technique's boundless potential, "You have a solid foundation and exceptional talent. Now with this technique, and should you find sufficient water-type spiritual things, I can't even begin to imagine the heights you'll reach."

"Rest assured, Ling Jing. No matter how formidable, it was you who taught me, wasn't it?"

Ning Que squinted his eyes, prompting Ling Jing to burst into laughter, his hands clapping in delight. With a contented look, he advised, "There's no need to rush into practicing this technique in the coming days. Focus on getting your body back to peak condition first."

Ning Que nodded in agreement. The long ordeal had taken a toll on his spirit, and he could no longer keep himself upright. Collapsing onto the bed, he quickly succumbed to a deep sleep.

The Ning Mansion had grown considerably quieter with the departure of the younger members. The absence of so many people did not go unnoticed by the less vigilant spies of the Hai family, who sensed that something was off.

In the Hai family's estate, a bearded man in fine clothes sat in his study, engaging in lively conversation with the person across from him, while another stood by his side with respectful attentiveness.

Shortly after, someone requested an audience. The man beside the bearded individual stepped out for a moment, then returned to whisper in his ear.

The bearded man's brow furrowed, but soon a contemplative smile crossed his face. "The Ning family has begun to move using the Skyreach Tower's caravan? How reliable is this information?" he mused.

"Reporting to the Patriarch, the news originated from Skyreach Tower, so it should be credible. Our spies around Ning Mansion have also reported a noticeable decrease in the number of people there," came the response.

The bearded man gave a slight nod, his heavy hand slowly forming a fist, but then he shook his head, deciding, "Let's not stir trouble with Skyreach Tower at this juncture. The pressing matter is our discussions with the Shadowsea Cult. Brother Yunlong, you agree, right?"

He addressed the man who had been silent for some time across from him. Were Ning Que present, he would have instantly recognized the man as Liu Yunlong, the direct disciple of the Shadowsea Cult.

And the bearded man was, of course, Hai Longsheng, the Patriarch of the Hai family.

"If we succeed this time, the Shadowsea Cult's power will surely grow even more formidable. Your Hai family will undoubtedly reap the benefits. Regarding your request to have members of your family train with the Shadowsea Cult, I'll convey it at the earliest opportunity. I don't foresee any significant issues."

Liu Yunlong exuded an air of arrogance. Given his superior strength and status, he had every reason to feel proud.

"Rest assured, the Hai family was the first to discover that place. We've kept it sealed off ever since, ensuring that no one else is aware of its existence. With the Shadowsea Cult's formidable power, capturing it will be a simple task," Hai Longsheng confidently asserted, his smile betraying no doubt. He wouldn't have sought collaboration with the Shadowsea Cult if he wasn't sure of their capabilities.

"That would be ideal," Liu Yunlong responded with a smile before casually inquiring, "I've heard that the Ning family is a fierce rival of your Hai family here in Oceanwatch City?"

"Hehe, it's true that there's no love lost between the Ning family and ours. But rest easy, I've instructed my people to avoid any conflicts with them during this crucial period. We won't let anything derail our plans," Hai Longsheng replied, momentarily taken aback by the question, yet he quickly reassured with a pat on his chest.

Liu Yunlong gestured dismissively, clarifying his intent, "The Ning family is too insignificant to interfere with the Shadowsea Cult's affairs. I have a minor score to settle with them myself. Since I've heard the Ning family has relocated and you, as the head of the Hai family, have no intention of taking action, allow me to step in. Skyreach Tower may be influential, but here in the southern seas, the Shadowsea Cult fears no one."

Hai Longsheng's demeanor brightened at the prospect. He was more than willing to have the Shadowsea Cult intervene, especially since Liu Yunlong was offering to do so voluntarily.

"Do I look like I'm joking?" Liu Yunlong asked, his face twisting into a grim smile as he lightly touched the wound on his chest. The searing pain intensified his animosity toward the Ning family and Skyreach Tower. The Shadowsea Cult had dispatched a significant number of people this time, but with pressing matters at hand, the sect couldn't afford to squander its strength against Skyreach Tower or the Ning family at such a critical juncture. However, Liu Yunlong had no such constraints when acting alone.

Regarding the Skyreach Tower's caravan, it was of no concern to him. If he were to eliminate everyone involved, who would be left to trace the deed back to him?

Brother Liu Yunlong's willingness to lend a hand is most fortuitous. I've heard that the Ning family has begun relocating, starting with the younger generation. With your strength, you alone are more than enough."

Hai Longsheng wasted no time in hesitation. He promptly commanded his subordinates to relay all the gathered intelligence to Liu Yunlong. Upon hearing the details, Liu Yunlong simply nodded and immediately turned to leave.

"The Ning family is facing difficulties."

Watching Liu Yunlong depart, Hai Longsheng was in high spirits. The man possessed the might of a Soul Marshal; within the Ning family, none could match him. And it was highly unlikely that Skyreach Tower would assign a Soul Marshal to guard their caravan.

Oceanwatch City had, unbeknownst to many, become host to numerous individuals donning black garments with wave embroidery—members of the Shadowsea Cult. Though the common folk remained oblivious, Ning Chaoping was well aware of the situation.

"With the Hai family and the Shadowsea Cult plotting, and their current distraction from our affairs, the Ning family's best course of action is an early withdrawal."

In the Ning family's council hall, the remaining elders and senior family members were convened, including Ning Que and Ning Xian'er.

It was Ning Que who had spoken.

Ning Chaoping gave a slight nod and addressed the gathered elders, "What are your thoughts, Elders?"

"Young Master Ning Que is correct. However, we have our own perspective regarding the retreat," an elder rose to his feet, casting an approving glance at Ning Que before continuing, "Those who wish to leave should do so within the next couple of days. A few of us elders have resolved to remain here."

The other elders nodded in agreement upon hearing this.

"Elders, once the Hai family and the Shadowsea Cult turn their attention to us, they could easily obliterate the Ning family. There's no sense in staying behind to make needless sacrifices," Ning Que implored, shaking his head.

Ning Chaoping joined in the persuasion. These elders were venerable members of the Ning family. Though occasionally set in their ways, they had contributed significantly to the clan and did not deserve to fall here.

"Young Master Ning Que, there's no need for further words. Reflecting on our actions swayed by Ning Jingtao, I am filled with regret."

The Ning family's ascent to power in Oceanwatch was hard-fought, every step earned through bloodshed and battle. We have certainly failed to uphold our family's honor."

"Had it not been for Young Master Ning Que's decisive action in the council hall that day, we might have forgotten the ferocity that runs in the Ning family's veins!"

"This time, even if the Shadowsea Cult intervenes, we are prepared to defend the Ning family's honor with our lives."

"Indeed. We're not getting any younger, so instead of scraping by for a few more years, why not go out with a bang? It would give our lives meaning."

"If the elders are staying, then we should too. After all this time in Oceanwatch, it's hard to imagine leaving."

The elders were all talking at once, their sentiments echoed by the other senior members of the clan who were equally outraged.

Ning Que wanted to continue persuading them, but he caught Ning Chaoping shaking his head.

"Father, it's senseless to stay here and risk our lives needlessly."

Ning Que said quietly, his confusion evident.

"Let them do as they wish. They've been repressing their frustrations for years. Their only aim with this stand is to buy the Ning family some extra time."

Ning Chaoping spoke with a sense of resignation, understanding the elders' mindset. If the Ning family were to mobilize en masse, they would suffer greatly if the Shadowsea Cult and the Hai family retaliated. After all, the timing of their adversaries' strike remained unknown.

"And what about you?" Ning Que asked, his concern barely concealed.

"I will stay as well. You and Xian'er take those clan members who wish to evacuate and rendezvous with Elder Wu Cong. Rest assured, once I know you're safe, I'll persuade the other elders to withdraw."

Ning Chaoping reassured Ning Que with a smile.

Realizing he couldn't sway his father, Ning Que reluctantly nodded in agreement.

After regrouping, Ning Que and Ning Xian'er led the remaining clan members to Skyreach Tower, traveling light. This time, there were fewer of them, and they didn't bother with the pretense of a trade caravan. Instead, they split into several groups and made their way quietly. Upon reaching Skyreach Tower, Ning Que was immediately greeted by Jiang Qingyan, who had been anxiously awaiting their arrival.

"Little brother Ning Que, your sister has been waiting anxiously for you."

Upon Ning Que's arrival, Jiang Qingyan couldn't help but smile coquettishly.

"I've been immersed in my cultivation, but rest assured, I've kept my promise to you."

Ning Que returned the smile. At his words, a look of delight spread across Jiang Qingyan's face, and she eagerly ushered Ning Que into the inner hall.