Chapter 884: Scattered Geng, Drifting White (II)
His iron-hard face lacked some of his father’s calm, but it carried the domineering air of one who had slaughtered countless cultivators. His every word was chilling, "The five prefectures are where the Yuan Family once supported the Chi Family. With Yuan Tuan and Yuan Chengdun dead, how can there be no resentment? Huyuan is kind but weak, while Hudu is venomous and ruthless. Should the balance shift, they may not remain loyal.
"The Yu Family was fragmented by the Chi Family. Only Yu Yuwei could have united them, but he died early, so rising again will be near impossible.
"The Lingu Family is deeply entrenched and has long harbored ambitions. They have ruled the Southern Sea for generations and are an esteemed family of Mount Yue, allied by marriage to the Xiukui Family. Si Yuanli will surely court them with favor, and they may serve as his support...
"The Ning Family’s fate hinges on Ning Wan. Ning Heyuan likely has no chance of survival. Since the family will fall to Ning Hejing, they cannot be trusted lightly..."
His gaze swept across the crowd and landed on Li Xizhi. He said quietly, "Xizhi... Our Li Family has labored through three generations to reach the ranks of the Jiangnan families. The Chi Family has grown too large to control. Si Yuanli will surely use you. Handle family affairs on your own initiative."
"Rest assured, Second Great Uncle." The graceful and composed young man nodded, showing his usual poise. He said softly, "I only worry about Uncle Yuanqin..."
"It is of no concern." The white-armored man sat upright and spoke in a low voice, "He knows his limits."
Li Xizhi withdrew thoughtfully. Li Xuanfeng opened his eyes and looked at Li Qinghong, his voice softening, "Qinghong, if I am not around, you alone are best at combat among the family members. Thunder arts are fierce and explosive. Keep to the seas, deter those with ill intent, and do not involve yourself too deeply in the sect’s inner duels."
"Yes," replied Li Qinghong.
Only then did Li Xuanfeng turn to Li Ximing. Li Ximing had always feared him, and kept his head lowered, not daring to speak. The man before him merely asked, "Ximing, how confident are you in reaching the Purple Mansion Realm?"
Li Ximing felt bitter inside, his heart full of sorrow, and answered heavily, "Less than twenty percent."