instigate defection

Amidst the schemes and power struggles between Wu Lingtian and his son, Cao Wenbin, accompanied by a group of flatterers, strode into a luxurious building.

This was the Tianwu City branch of the Cao family, or perhaps better called their military headquarters.

"Young master, what brings you here this time?"

While others addressed him as 'Young Lord,' the speaker called Cao Wenbin 'Young Master,' indicating his direct lineage within the family.

Indeed, this man was Fu Bo, once the Cao family's steward and now a mid-stage quasi-saint in strength.

"Fu Bo, I'm here to oversee the change of dynasty for the Tianwu Empire."

"Some people no longer wish to remain subservient."

The statement was earth-shattering, leaving the office's leaders in stunned silence.

Quickly recovering, the deputy leader spoke up, "Young Lord, could it be that Wu Lingtian harbors rebellious intentions?"

"If that's the case, I suggest supporting the third son of the Wu family. He is highly esteemed throughout the Tianwu Empire and possesses a mastery of many ingenious inventions. If he were to take the throne, it would undoubtedly bring greater benefits to our Cao family."

Hearing this, Cao Wenbin's eyes narrowed.

"What's your name?"

"My name is Song Jie, Young Lord," he replied, a smile spreading across his face, believing he had struck a chord with Cao Wenbin.

"You seem to admire this third son of the Wu family."

Scratching his head in embarrassment, Song Jie said, "To be honest, Young Lord, I do admire him. His inventions have truly benefited the present and will bless future generations."

A smirk tugged at the corner of Cao Wenbin's lips as he muttered to himself, "You've found your path to death."

With those words, he signaled to Fu Bo, who immediately understood. With a single palm strike, he shattered Song Jie's heart.

"Pfft—"

Spitting blood, Song Jie looked at him in disbelief. "Young Lord, why…why did you kill me?"

"Because your loyalty was misplaced."

Without waiting for a further question, Cao Wenbin continued, "Everything you just said shows you were thinking from the perspective of the common people. But you seem to forget—the Cao family is the beneficiary of this system. What I need is not a brilliant emperor who will expand territories and be praised by the masses, but a compliant, mediocre figure to maintain our status quo."

"As for the commoners..."

"Their well-being is no concern of mine. As long as they can fill their bellies, that's all that matters."

Indeed, the saying is true—where one stands determines how one thinks.

Hearing this, Song Jie was enraged. "Water can carry a boat, but it can also overturn it! If you disregard the people, the Cao family will fall!"

"You'll see—under the leadership of Prince Chengqian…"

In his fury, he aggravated his wounds, and with a final glare, he breathed his last.

"Water can carry a boat, but also overturn it?"

Cao Wenbin sneered. "That might have been relevant on Blue Star in ancient times."

"Fu Bo, make sure his close subordinates and family join him in death."

It was clear that Song Jie's final words had sealed the fates of his loved ones.

"Yes, Young Master."

...

Night fell, and the grand palace hall was aglow with light, a stark contrast to its usual emptiness.

Today, the hall was filled with the aroma of a feast.

"The third prince's invention of this portable hotpot is truly marvelous! Who would've thought that dipping slices of meat in sesame sauce could be so delicious!"

"Not only that, it's much more hygienic compared to the traditional meals we used to have."

"Indeed, it's a blessing for those of us with cleanliness obsessions."

The hall was already packed with guests, but no one dared lift their chopsticks—not even Pei Luoxue or Wu Lingtian.

Thankfully, Cao Wenbin was punctual, striding into the hall before the conversation could develop further.

"Greetings, Young Lord!"

He smiled and waved dismissively. "Everyone, be seated."

"By the way, have you arranged entertainment?"

"If so, let them start performing as soon as possible."

It was evident that Cao Wenbin intended to fully play the role of a decadent noble, and there were even those who believed it.

"Mother, is this really the savior you brought in?"

"He seems more reckless than me."

Wu Chengfeng's naive comment drew a helpless smile from Pei Luoxue.

This son of hers truly had no sense—questioning Cao Wenbin, of all people?

He was a man who would stop at nothing to achieve his goals. Her status was high enough, yet even aboard the airship, Cao Wenbin had tormented her all the way with his antics.

Had it not been for her quasi-saint cultivation and firm resolve, she might have been devoured by this wolf in sheep's clothing long ago.

As mother and son whispered, a troupe of graceful dancers, urged by Cao Wenbin, began their performance in the center of the hall.

...