Soon, the carriage slowed and descended from the sky, landing gracefully on a floating island high above the grand city. This island was home to the esteemed Zhen Clan, one of the most influential powers in the region.
The floating island was a breathtaking sight, adorned with majestic gardens and sprawling buildings that stretched for miles. The air was thick with a rich spirit essence that could make any cultivator gasp in awe and delight.
Today, however, there was something different about the clan, something that hadn't been seen in years. The entire place was bustling, alive with activity, as a grand celebration was clearly underway.
The occasion? The triumphant return of their young master, Zhen Yu, who had just completed the trials of the ancestral grounds. After five long years of grueling challenges, he had succeeded, becoming the youngest person to achieve a complete passage through the trials.
In honor of this remarkable feat, Zhen Yu's father, the clan leader, had decided to host a grand celebration, welcoming him back and announcing his accomplishments to the world. Word of the event had spread throughout the region, drawing many influential clans and powers to join in the festivities.
But that wasn't all that made the celebration significant. Two other reasons added to its gravity. First, it was to formally declare Zhen Yu as the new heir of the Zhen Clan and have all the clansmen pledge their respects to the young master. Second, to elevate his prestige and secure the clan's succession, the clan leader intended for his son to find a suitable partner during the event.
Though the clan leader had not made these intentions public, the presence of numerous young women from influential families in the crowd spoke volumes. Each hoped to catch the clan leader's eye and secure a marriage alliance for their family.
As the flying carriage came to a halt and settled on the ground, the two beasts pulling it reared up, releasing a thunderous roar. The sound echoed through the surroundings, drawing everyone's attention to the grand carriage.
Following this roar, the carriage doors finally swung open, revealing the young master himself. Zhen Yu emerged with an aura of pride and power. His physique was tall and powerful, his movements confident and graceful, giving the impression of a god descending to the mortal realm.
Dressed in a shimmering blue robe embroidered with intricate golden patterns, he was a sight to behold. The robe clung to his frame, emphasizing his chiseled figure, and the elaborate design of dragons and phoenixes on the cloth seemed to bring the creatures to life with every move he made.
His face was so flawless and perfect that even the women with the most resolute will and unwavering heart couldn't help but feel attracted to him.
The moment Zhen Yu stepped out of the carriage, the air around him changed. He didn't merely walk but seemed to glide, each step measured and smooth, as if the world itself yielded to him.
By his side were the two beautiful maidservants, Xiao Lan and Xiao Die. Their appearances were also spectacular and drew the gazes of all the men standing inside the courtyard. However, their beauty didn't matter at this moment, as most eyes were on the young master.
After descending, Zhen Yu swept his gaze across the surroundings, a small smile visible on his face.
"It's been a long time since I've been back. Nothing seems to have changed though; it's still the same as ever." He said in a playful tone, as if commenting to himself.
"Welcome home, Young Master Zhen."
At once, over a dozen guardsmen bowed as they greeted him respectfully. Their voices were firm and heavy, their postures solemn.
Old Huo, who was the one driving the carriage, appeared from behind, his voice echoing through the courtyard as he spoke.
"All of you, bow to the Young Master!"
The moment his words sounded out, the guards, maids, and butlers, along with even the disciples present in the courtyard, all bowed towards Zhen Yu in a respectful manner.
"Greetings, Young Master!" They uttered with a hint of fervor and joy, for today was a joyous day. Their young master had finally returned!
Zhen Yu scanned the group, his gaze aloof and distant. Then, without saying a word, he started walking forward, leaving behind the gathered crowd and entering the clan.
Though he walked elegantly, there was a subtle hint of anticipation and impatience in his steps, causing his pace to be faster than usual. This subtle difference, however, would not be detected by others.
This anticipation only grew stronger as Zhen Yu headed through the various sections of the Zhen Clan, entering a private residence.
With his quick steps, he soon reached the door of a private chamber. He gave it a glance but didn't enter.
Standing before the door, he waited, his posture refined, and a small smile visible on his face.
Not long after, a soft feminine voice came from the inside. "You've come, Yu'er. Come inside, my dear."
The moment she spoke, the door before Zhen Yu opened, and he stepped in with a charming smile. Inside the chamber was a woman dressed in a crimson red robe. Her face was of peerless beauty, her eyes bright and profound. And most of all, she emanated an intoxicating aura that seemed to pull anyone towards her.
Zhen Yu approached her, stopping at a short distance from the woman. He stood there silently, his gaze filled with longing, staring at the woman without blinking even once.
The way her crimson red hair fell over her shoulder was elegant and eye-catching, while the faint smile on her red lips was alluring and irresistible. She appeared even more breathtaking and dazzling than in his memories.
It wasn't just her appearance that was impressive. Even her scent had intensified. That light, fresh aroma lingered in the air, tickling his nose and causing his blood to boil.
Her charm and elegance had reached the peak, almost overwhelming Zhen Yu completely.
Looking at Zhen Yu's face that was full of love and adoration, her smile grew wider, her eyes glimmering with tenderness and affection.
"Yu'er, did you miss your mother?"
"More than you can imagine, Mother." He spoke in a voice filled with ardent feelings, stepping forward and closing the distance between them.