The flying vessel had just taken off and hadn’t yet picked up speed when suddenly, it slowed down.

Another flying vessel caught up and flew alongside it. A young cultivator then leaped over from the other flying vessel.

The young cultivator entered the cabin, bowed to Cui Yu, and said, “Why haven’t you come to see me even though you’ve returned home, Cousin? If I hadn’t found out earlier, I would have missed you again.”

Cui Yu replied with a grim expression, “You and I have no relationship. There’s no need for either of us to go out of our way to meet one another, is there?”

“You’re wrong, Cousin. We are both members of the Cui Clan, and the family is facing difficult times right now. We must naturally stand up and shoulder this great responsibility. This isn’t just a matter between you and me—it concerns the entire Cui Clan. 

“I’ve heard that you’ve achieved quite a lot in recent years—you’ve shown skill in organizing armies, preparing for war, and governing regions—and our elders often speak highly of you. That’s why I’d like to ask you to return to the Cui Clan and lend me a hand.”

Cui Yu raised his eyebrows and asked, “What do you mean?”

“The clan elders have recently decided to transfer the position of realm lord in a frontier region to me. However, the borders are in a state of turmoil, and I need help. You are the best candidate I can think of. Once I’ve become an Avatar, I will move onto other places. That region will naturally be yours, won’t it?”

A flash of anger crossed Cui Yu’s eyes, and he replied coldly, “Not interested.”

The young cultivator continued, “I know you’re proud and ambitious, Cousin, but there are limits to human ability—even a slight difference in innate talent can decide it all. We’re of the same generation and share a natural bond with each other. That is why I’ve chosen...