"What? Long Chen? The head of the Long family who swept through his peers a few years ago and then went into seclusion to break through to the Spirit Cleansing Realm?"
"Wasn't it rumored that he had died? Why did he suddenly reappear here? Wait... they came from the Feng family. Could it be...?"
The crowd was in shock, struggling to comprehend what was unfolding before them.
Moments later, some bold individuals entered the Feng family mansion to investigate.
But upon witnessing the tragic, blood-soaked scene, they turned pale and vomited on the spot, overwhelmed by horror.
News of the massacre spread like wildfire the Feng family and their allies had been annihilated. Star City, which had stood stable for decades, was shaken to its very core, as if struck by an earthquake.
Ordinary citizens, martial artists, and disciples from prestigious families all fell into disbelief.
The Feng family was one of the four great families! Not only did they boast powerful warriors, but they also had the backing of half-step innate realm elders from the Tang family.
Yet, even with the combined might of all four families, they couldn't withstand the Long family's assault? It was terrifying just to think about.
No corpses were found among the Feng family or the Long family, despite the brutal conflict.
In other words, the Long family had wiped out their enemies without suffering a single casualty.
This shocking feat caused whispers and suspicion to grow. Could Long Chen have broken through to the Innate Realm?
If so, then with the fall of the four families, the Long family might now claim the title of the strongest in Star City.
Rumors spread like a storm ten became hundreds, and the entire city was soon abuzz with speculation.
Meanwhile, in the Long family's ancestral hall, excitement filled the air.
Senior members gathered, and joyful chatter echoed throughout the room.
Amidst the fiery gazes of his people, Long Chen sat at the head of the hall, calmly browsing the system's store.
Finally, he found what he was looking for:
[Chaos Eye]: As long as the target is not more than three major realms above the host, it can detect all details, including techniques and weapons.
"So, as long as the target doesn't surpass the Drama Realm, I can detect everything. It's expensive 1000 luck points but it'll be invaluable for scouting talents and allocating roles," he thought.
After purchasing the skill, Long Chen slowly stood and scanned the hall, activating the Chaos Eye. At once, he identified several promising individuals those who had performed admirably during the battle.
Then, in a clear voice, he declared, "Now that the Feng family has been destroyed, it is time to reward merit. Those whose names I read, step forward."
"Long Nian, Long Bing, Long Daohua..."
One by one, names were called, and those summoned stepped forward with pride, excitement brimming in their eyes. More than twenty stood by the time he finished.
They stood tall, bearing the envious stares of their peers. Although they tried to remain composed, joy filled their hearts.
Long Chen held up two pill bottles and announced, "Your performance was seen by your clan leader. These contain Celestial Body Purification Pills and Spirit Cleansing Pills. Each of you will receive what suits your cultivation level."
Gasps of disbelief swept the room.
Celestial Body Purification Pills? Spirit Cleansing Pills? These were premium-grade pills, considered treasures in the entire Nanshang Province!
The Body Purification Pills could elevate someone in the Body Tempering realm to the next level without harming their foundation.
The Spirit Cleansing Pills had the same effect on cultivators in that realm.
In the past, even a single pill would be unaffordable now, full bottles were being handed out.
Shock spread among the spectators. Many silently regretted not trying harder. Had they known such rewards were possible, they might have given their all in the battle.
At that moment, silent resolve formed in their hearts they would never miss another chance to prove themselves.
Seeing their reactions, Long Chen smiled faintly. This was the effect he wanted.
Then he walked toward the four elders—Long Outian, Long Tianxiao, Long Lulin, and Long Xue.
"Elders," he said, "You've carried the burden of the family for many years. The Long family stands strong today because of your dedication."
Tears welled up in the eyes of the four men. Years of silent effort, finally acknowledged it was a moment none of them would forget.