Invincible Soul Emperor

The night was deep, yet the Xue Family’s study remained brightly lit.

The walls of the study were lined with bookshelves, displaying ancient texts and records that exuded an old bookish aroma.

Between the shelves, several verdant bonsai adorned the space, adding a touch of vitality to the study.

In the center was a wide Purple Sandalwood desk, piled with various documents and family affairs files, with a few silver candlesticks emitting a soft light, illuminating the study as bright as day.

The Patriarch of the Xue Family sat upright behind the desk, engrossed in the scrolls in his hand.

His brows exuded authority, and although he was over fifty, he still looked vigorous.

Occasionally, the Patriarch of the Xue Family would pick up a pen to annotate the scrolls, sometimes pondering for a moment, as if contemplating how to handle family affairs.

His sleeves gently swayed with his movements, the purple Brocade Robe embroidered with gold-threaded dragon patterns, appearing particularly solemn and dignified.

The silence of the study was broken by a faint sound of footsteps, as a servant gently knocked on the door and reported in a low voice, "Family Head, Xue Wei requests an audience."

The Patriarch of the Xue Family raised his head, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes, then nodded and said, "Let him in."

The door was gently pushed open, and Xue Wei stepped into the study.

He was tall and handsome, with piercing eyes full of spirit, appearing quite heroic.

Xue Wei walked to the front of the desk, slightly bowed, and said, "Family Head, sorry to disturb you."

The Patriarch of the Xue Family set down the scroll in his hand, his gaze carrying a mix of affection and authority: "Xue Wei, I didn’t expect you to return so soon? How is it? It seems the progress is going smoothly!"

Xue Wei stood in front of the desk, his expression steady and his tone carrying a hint of confidence: "Family Head, regarding the matters within the Secret Realm, they have been dealt with. There’s no need for you to worry about it. However, Xue Zhao did get slightly injured in the process."

At this, the Patriarch of the Xue Family frowned slightly, placed the scroll down, and a flash of surprise appeared in his eyes: "Xue Zhao got injured? How did that happen?"

He was somewhat aware of Xue Zhao’s capabilities.

He didn’t expect that she would get injured there.

It’s really strange.

Xue Wei remained composed, answering calmly: "Indeed, there are extreme dangers within the Secret Realm, with various Exotic Beasts rampant, and some unpredictable mechanisms and traps. Xue Zhao got a little hurt while covering me. But please, Family Head, rest assured, with some recovery time, she should be back to normal soon."

Upon hearing this, the Patriarch of the Xue Family’s surprise subsided slightly, his face showing some concern, but more so an appreciation for Xue Wei’s impressive handling of the matter.

He gave Xue Wei a deep look, nodding his head: "The Secret Realm is indeed treacherous, and for you to navigate through such peril with ease is truly commendable. Xue Wei, your actions are always decisive and efficient, and once again, the Family Head is very reassured by you."

The Patriarch continued, with a hint of admiration in his tone: "Not only can you swiftly handle matters within the Secret Realm, but you also take into account the safety of your peers, which is truly praiseworthy. You are the backbone of the Xue Family, and I hope you continue with this demeanor; when the time comes to vie for the Saint Position, it will give you greater confidence."

Listening to the Patriarch’s praise, Xue Wei couldn’t help but inwardly sneer, but on the surface, he remained calm.

He slightly bowed and humbly said, "The Family Head overpraises me; it’s my duty. Should I become the Saint Heir, I pledge to give my all for the future of the Xue Family."

The Patriarch of the Xue Family nodded, his face displaying a satisfied smile: "Very good, very good. With someone like you, the Family Head is very comforted."

Standing in front of the desk, Xue Wei paused for a moment, then continued: "Family Head, because Xue Zhao has been injured, those around her might become a little emotionally unstable. If, in a moment, Xue Feng comes to see you and says something inappropriate, I hope you will discern carefully and not be misled."

Here, Xue Wei was preemptively accusing someone to avoid any potential backlash.

But there’s no other choice; that’s just the kind of person Xue Wei is.

Though the Patriarch of the Xue Family furrowed his brow slightly, he had no doubts about Xue Wei’s words.

There was a trace of contemplation in his gaze, and then he nodded: "Xue Wei, what you say makes sense. Xue Zhao’s injury means those around her will inevitably experience mood swings. I will discern carefully and will not easily believe others’ words."

The Patriarch paused, with a mix of warmth and trust in his gaze: "You’ve always been calm, handling matters in an orderly fashion; naturally, I have faith in you. You are the pride of the Xue Family."

With sincere demeanor, Xue Wei slightly bowed: "The Family Head’s trust is an honor for Xue Wei. I will certainly not disappoint your expectations and will serve the Xue Family wholeheartedly."

The Patriarch of the Xue Family nodded in satisfaction: "Very good, very good. With you here, the Family Head is reassured. Go, continue with your duties, and if you need anything, come to see me anytime."

Xue Wei bowed and slowly exited the study.

The Patriarch of the Xue Family watched his departing figure, filled with trust and comfort.

Having handled such urgent matters, he merely came to report the situation, without any hint of seeking a reward.

This kind of nature - neither seeking nor contending - will surely lead the Xue Family to greater heights in the future.

Shortly after Xue Wei left, urgent footsteps were heard again outside the study. A servant hurriedly reported: "Family Head, Xue Feng requests an audience outside."

The Patriarch of the Xue Family slightly furrowed his brow, but then nodded: "Let him in."

Xue Feng pushed the door open and entered, his face full of urgency.

He almost rushed to the front of the desk, breathlessly saying: "Family Head, you must stand up for Xue Zhao! The reason she was injured and is unconscious is all because of Xue Wei! He was ruthless in the Secret Realm, harming his own kind, and Xue Zhao was hurt by him!"

The Patriarch of the Xue Family, hearing these words, immediately knitted his brows tightly, anger bursting from his eyes.

He slammed his hand on the desk, his voice thundering: "Presumptuous! Xue Feng, do you know what you’re saying?"

Seeing the Patriarch so furious, Xue Feng’s tone remained undiminished: "Family Head, every word I say is true. Xue Zhao was injured due to Xue Wei’s scheming! He appears loyal, but in truth, he harbors ulterior motives!"

The Patriarch of the Xue Family stood up, eyes like torches, staring directly at Xue Feng: "Xue Wei just reported to me about the Secretariat issues, explaining that Xue Zhao was injured protecting him. How dare you slander him? Do you think I will be easily swayed by rumors?"

Xue Feng urgently retorted: "Family Head, you must believe me, every word I say is true! Xue Wei appears loyal, but he is not righteous at heart, you cannot be deceived by him!"

The Patriarch’s face turned ashen, his voice imbued with undeniable authority: "Enough! Xue Feng, I understand your concern for Xue Zhao, but such baseless accusations against Xue Wei destroy the trust among us. I won’t doubt Xue Family members based on one-sided words, especially not Xue Wei, who has consistently been thorough and loyal in his work!"

Seeing the Patriarch’s resolute stance, Xue Feng felt inwardly indignant but dared not say more.

He took a deep breath and spoke softly: "Family Head, every word I speak is the truth, I hope you will investigate carefully."