When the Black Stone City Lord announced that Shi Qingqing would become the next City Lord, the entire banquet hall seemed to be shaken by an invisible force. All sounds came to an abrupt stop, and all eyes were focused on Shi Qingqing.

Shi Qingqing responded with a smile, standing there like a brilliant star, dazzling and the center of attention.

After a brief silence, the crowd began to buzz.

"The Black Stone City Lord actually passed the position directly."

"Isn't this too rushed? Shouldn't she take some time to get accustomed?"

"Hasn't Shi Qingqing been married out? Is she suited to be the City Lord? Will Black Stone City change its family name in the future?"

The crowd whispered among themselves, many stealing glances at Shen Wang.

Shen Wang scanned calmly, noticing the guests' varied reactions; most were surprised, with a few eyes widening as if they couldn't believe their ears.

It was normal for them to be surprised, as by all accounts, Shi Qingqing indeed seemed unsuitable to be City Lord and lacked the qualifications, given she had married him.

Shi Qingqing's family members were mostly delighted, breaking into happy smiles, feeling genuine joy over Shi Qingqing taking on the position of City Lord. This meant they would definitely have opportunities in the future.

The worst expressions belonged to Shi Zhixiang's branch.

At this moment, Shi Zhixiang, hiding in the corner drinking alone, suddenly stood up, his face darkened like iron, eyes blazing as he glared at Shi Qingqing and his father.

His tightly clenched fists trembled slightly, as if ready to burst at any moment.

The thing that belonged to him was snatched away by Shi Qingqing!

How could he remain calm? If not for Shen Wang's presence and the situation, he would have shouted.

His mother screamed sharply, "What's the meaning of this, Shi? Are you insane? My son is clearly the best candidate for the next City Lord. How can you give it to a married-out woman?"

"Shut up. I am the City Lord, and whoever I say will be the next City Lord will be. So what if Qingqing is married out? She has enough strength to hold this position!"

The Black Stone City Lord said coldly.

"You!"

Shi Zhixiang's mother wanted to persist.

The Black Stone City Lord waved his hand directly, "Someone, take this shrew away!"

Swish swish!

Two men in black appeared on either side.

"Madam, please come with us." The men in black said coldly.

This enraged the Madam, her face turned blue as she grit her teeth, "Fine! Very well, son, let's go. The Black Stone City Lord can give it to whomever he likes, he thinks we care!"

Mother and son left with grim faces, and the tense atmosphere of the banquet finally dissipated. Eyes turned to Shi Qingqing also changed.

They knew, given that the City Lord was willing to offend the main branch to support Shi Qingqing, this matter was set in stone.

"Haha, the City Lord's move was surprising, but still, congratulations to City Lord Qingqing."

The Blood Shadow Demoness spoke with a laugh, breaking the chaos.

"Thank you, elder sister, for your support."

Shi Qingqing thanked her, calling her elder sister, which brought a wide smile to the Blood Shadow Demoness's face.

The Ten Thousand Poison Old Ghost was also present, speaking sinisterly, "Old Shi, aren't you afraid your son will rebel?"

"He dares!"

The Black Stone City Lord snorted coldly, "With his ability, settling as a steward will make him rich for life. If he causes trouble, he'll only suffer."

Everyone hearing his words knew the Old City Lord's stance.

"Shi Zhixiang has failed to break through twice, indeed he's not fit to be City Lord anymore."

"Yes, Shi Zhixiang is narrow-minded, not the best choice for City Lord."

"Miss Qingqing is young and surpassed with just one breakthrough, perfect choice."

"Under City Lord Qingqing's leadership, Black Stone City will surely become more prosperous."

The crowd immediately changed their stance, belittling Shi Zhixiang while praising Shi Qingqing.

Of course, even with fair evaluation, Shi Qingqing was indeed superior to Shi Zhixiang.

Therefore, many people were sincerely convinced, filled with anticipation for what's next.

Everyone knew this marked the beginning of a new era, requiring them to prepare quickly.

Soon, people crowded around Shi Qingqing with toasts and gifts. Others gathered around Shen Wang, aware that Shi Qingqing's present success was undoubtedly related to this mysterious man.

Shen Wang exchanged pleasantries with a group, spending most of the night dealing with people. Only when the guests left did he helplessly shake his head, "Seems I'm not suited for these tasks; alchemy is more interesting."

"Haha, son-in-law, you're a master. There's indeed no need to waste time on socializing."

The Black Stone City Lord chuckled, further confirming the correctness of his decision through the crowd's reaction.

With Shi Qingqing succeeding him, Black Stone City and the Shi Family would only become better.

He glanced at a flushed Shi Qingqing, "Madam, are you tired?"

"I'm fine. I'm used to these things, not feeling tired."

Shi Qingqing walked beside Shen Wang, "Father, I will start taking over the City Lord's Mansion matters tomorrow, please watch over Brother Xiang. I fear he might do something extreme, making things difficult for all of us later."

"Yes, I will keep an eye on him." The City Lord nodded, though he was not worried about Shi Zhixiang, he was more concerned about the shrew, as she had backing.

Shen Wang said nothing; if Shi Zhixiang behaved, fine. If not, he'd have a reason to extinguish threats for Shi Qingqing and their child.

"Son-in-law, Shi Qingqing will be busy soon. Why don't you stay at the City Lord's Mansion? There are plenty of rooms here."

The City Lord proposed.

"Yes, let's stay. Susu, you will assist Qingqing with things to come. You are both pregnant, make sure to take care."

Shen Wang looked at Susu beside him.

"Yes, husband."

Susu nodded obediently.

Shen Wang temporarily stayed at the City Lord's Mansion. While setting up arrays in the room, he had a sudden sensation, closing his eyes as if sensing something.

A moment later, his eyes opened, revealing a surprised look.

"There's news from the Black Lotus Avatar!"

Shen Wang spoke joyfully, "Today is truly a double blessing."

Earlier, the avatar exploring Kui Continent confirmed the spatial rift situation, currently under the Rakshasa Race control. The specifics were unknown, but entering it might lead back.

"The Rakshasa Race's strength is presently above the waning Dark Race. Reckless probing might be dangerous, more planning is necessary."

Shen Wang pondered, "Let the avatar attempt infiltration. More spiritual power will be needed for communication henceforth."

He contemplated, deciding against rash action; remaining here was safest, waiting for another breakthrough for assurance.

Compared to the joy of Shen Wang's family, Shi Zhixiang returned to his room venting fury, terrifying the maid into trembling.

His mother, Lady Lizi, cursed with a dark face, "The old man's truly lost it, forgetting who backed him to the City Lord's seat. Come, see your uncle to seek justice!"

"He's already made the announcement; all Black Stone City knows. How can justice be sought? I've lost my chance."

Shi Zhixiang spoke despondently.

"Hmph, the City Lord's position isn't easy to hold. How can you have no chance?"

Lady Lizi sneered, "I'll ensure she finds no peace!"

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.