Unfathomable Senior

Chapter 742

‘There are a lot of them... To think that someone like me would have had such a big family circle...’

Zhang Dong's thoughts transported him back to a time before he had arrived in this world. Before that strange email had changed the course of his life, he was just an ordinary person leading a solitary existence, stuck in a dead-end job. His previous family had been something he felt he didn't quite belong to.

During those family get-togethers, he often found himself on the outskirts, trying to avoid confrontation and blending into the background. He would sit in a quiet corner, speaking very little, or he'd linger over his food, using it as a way to deflect conversations and uncomfortable interactions. The sense of alienation and disconnection from his previous life had been palpable.

His journey to this world had transformed him in many ways, providing him with a new sense of purpose, a loving family, and a profound impact on the world itself. The contrast between his past and present was striking, and he couldn't help but reflect on the incredible journey that had brought him to where he was today.

At times, he couldn't help but wonder if his original family was still out there somewhere. Even though more than three hundred years had passed in this alternate world, it didn't necessarily mean the same amount of time had passed in his original world. His experience when visiting the world where Beatrice resided was a clear example - upon his return, five years had already elapsed in this realm. It was even possible that when he ascended from this world, he might simply return to his old world as if nothing had occurred.

An outcome like that would indeed be quite unfortunate, but the possibility that all of this was just an elaborate illusion crossed his mind. Nevertheless, this place felt far too authentic to be a mere illusion, and its abrupt dissolution upon his ascension would raise suspicions. Before he embarked on his journey, he felt compelled to bid farewell to everyone who had gathered here.

“Welcome, I’m glad that you have managed to arrive at such short notice!”

Family members gradually gathered within the Zhang Dong family villa, an expansive estate that had served as the home for generations of the Zhang family. Everyone in this place was a part of his closest family circle, direct descendants of himself as the family head. Although he had only produced two children, each of his own children had three, and their descendants continued to multiply.

The entire villa now housed nearly a hundred individuals who were directly connected to him as the oldest member. Only one person was older, that being Zhang Jin who he also owed an explanation of what he was about to do. Liu and Xue who were his disciples, were also here but their own families were not part of this celebration.

“My dearest family, gathered here today, I've called upon you for a specific reason. As you may have noticed, I've been less active in recent years. Some of you still disagree with my decision of stepping down from my position as Emperor but I had a good reason for it, which I will now explain.”

Zhang Dong paused for a moment, looking at the faces of his family members, each with a mix of anticipation and curiosity. Some of the children present were already dozing off while their family members were pinching their cheeks which brought a smile onto his face. To some of them he was a scary cultivator but to others just a strange grandfather.

"First, I want to express my deep pride and gratitude for each and every one of you. You have all played a significant role in the growth and prosperity of our family and the sect. Without your dedication and hard work, we wouldn't be where we are today. But now, it's time for me to move on to the next step... I will be making preparations to go through the ascension...”

Zhang Dong stopped for a moment as he saw shocked expressions on some of his family member's faces. Most of them knew what he was talking about but none of them believed that it was actually possible to reach another realm.

"We've faced countless challenges together, and we've always emerged stronger. I have faith in my husband, and I'll be waiting for the day that he returns to us and to me.”

Zhang Jun and his sister exchanged glances. While it was difficult for them to accept their father's departure, they also understood the importance of his decision. All of the people here were cultivators and would probably choose to go through the ascension if they were given the opportunity. Growing stronger and wiser while improving their martial arts was ingrained into their very souls.

"Father, I'll support your decision, as difficult as it is for me. Just promise me that you'll come back, no matter how long it takes."

Xiu on the other hand frowned at the revelation. It didn’t seem that she was too convinced or glad about this information but also knew that stopping her father would be impossible.

“Dad, just make sure to not over do it, okay?”

“Haha, you know me, safety first!”

She rolled her eyes at the response and soon the whole place was filled with laughter. The family members nodded, their initial shock giving way to a sense of unity and determination. They were a family that had faced numerous challenges and thrived, and they would face this one together.

“That’s about everything that I wanted to discuss, I’m not sure when my ascension will take place... So before that, I wanted to share this feast with all of you! Now come, let us eat!”

With their concerns and questions addressed, the family embraced the idea of unity and celebration. They moved to the grand dining hall, where a sumptuous feast had been prepared in honor of this special occasion. Zhang Dong's ascension might have been on the horizon, but for now, it was a time for togetherness and joy.

The dining hall buzzed with laughter and conversation as family members from different generations and walks of life shared stories, caught up on each other's lives, and relished the delicious dishes. It was a heartwarming sight, as even the youngest children seemed to understand the significance of this gathering.

As the evening unfolded, Zhang Dong found himself surrounded by his loved ones, old and young, basking in the warmth of their presence. He shared anecdotes, offered guidance, and made cherished memories with his family, all the while feeling immense gratitude for the life he had built in this world.

The celebration continued into the night, with music and dancing, reflecting the deep bonds that connected them all. It was a reminder of the legacy he had built, not just as a powerful cultivator but as a loving father and grandfather.

The night eventually grew late, and the family members began to disperse to their respective quarters, reflecting on the day's events. For Zhang Dong, it was a reminder that despite the challenges and uncertainties of his ascension, he had the support and love of his family.

As he retired to his own chamber, Zhang Dong couldn't help but feel a sense of happiness. He knew that his journey forward would be fraught with trials and tribulations, but he was prepared to face them head-on. With the love and unity of his family as his source of strength, he was ready to embrace the unknown...