Zhang Yuanqing took a taxi, rushing to Fu Family Bay, swiped his card through security check, entered the residential complex, and arrived at the luxury villa. As soon as he stepped inside, he spotted Ling Jun, wearing a loose cotton shirt, seven-quarter pants, and slippers, quietly hiding beneath a landscape tree, arms wrapped around the trunk, murmuring to himself. Zhang Yuanqing followed his gaze—through the dense foliage, a green vine was coiled around his phone, the camera lens focused on a window of the villa, constantly adjusting its angle, as if capturing something important. What on earth was he doing? Zhang Yuanqing approached and asked, "Are you secretly filming a rabbit-dancer taking a shower?" "What's there to secretly film," Ling Jun replied, turning around and whispering, "Be quiet—I'm filming the top news story." Is there anything more worth filming than a graceful young lady with a slender waist, long legs, and a full chest taking a shower? If so, then perhaps a pig taking a shower would be even more remarkable. This guy is just as restrained as Fu Qingyang, isn't he? Zhang Yuanqing still wanted to ask more, but Ling Jun waved him off: "Just go about your business—don't linger here, or you'll be noticed." Reluctantly, he turned and walked along the stone path laid across the lawn into the villa. With ease, he reached the study, knocked lightly twice, and pushed open the brown double-door wooden entrance. As the door opened, Zhang Yuanqing heard the familiar, warm sound of "tap-tap." In the elegantly furnished study, what he first noticed was the shaggy teddy bear seated at the desk, followed by a fresh, compact red ballet shoe. At that moment, the red ballet shoe was launching fierce attacks around the shaggy teddy bear—thumping, kicking, stomping on the left face, then the right face—like an irritable, tireless fly. Zhang Yuanqing couldn't help but feel that the dog elder was utterly defeated. On the guest sofa, Fu Qingyang, Guan Ya, and Jiang Jingwei sat. The red-haired young woman watched the Teddy Elder with the air of someone enjoying a play, constantly emitting "hahs" and "giggles." Guan Ya kept her lips tightly pressed, struggling hard to suppress her own emotions. Fu Qingyang maintained his usual stern expression, yet his gaze remained fixed on the dog Elder, never wavering, never shifting. The Elder had triggered the killing rule of the Red Slippers—the true testament to the power of rule-based items, even the Elder himself could not escape it. Yet it was clear that the dog Elder was a dignified powerhouse, choosing to endure the constant interruptions rather than awkwardly perform. Zhang Yuanqing took a deep breath, successfully holding back the laughter that nearly escaped him. As the door of the study opened and Fu Qingyang and the others turned to look, the dog Elder's gaze suddenly sharpened, filled with intense determination, and fixed upon Yuan Shi Tian Zun. Zhang Yuanqing immediately bowed deeply, saying, "Thank you, Elder, for traveling so far to come to the capital and resolve the issue with the item. I will surely repay you." Watching his subordinates so respectful and obedient, the Dog Elder found it hard to channel his fury. At that moment, the Red Slippers launched another kick, delivering a solid blow to him. The Elder's eyes blazed with anger. Zhang Yuanqing bowed deeply, saying, "Thank you, Elder." … The Dog Elder spoke firmly, "Retrieve this broken artifact." "Yes!" Zhang Yuanqing exhaled in relief and turned to the Red Slippers, "Do not disturb the Elder..." quietly summoning it in the background. Upon being summoned by the owner, the Red Slippers indeed ceased their attack and bounced cheerfully toward the owner. Notably, once an artifact bonds with its master, the master may at any time cancel or interrupt the Red Slippers' attack—this is a power granted by the Spiritual Realm. As Zhang Yuanqing reached to retrieve the Red Slippers, a message suddenly appeared: ["Would you like to dance with me? If so, please simply stand and stay in place."] Oh no, I completely forgot to settle my dues last time I used it… Zhang Yuanqing looked at the Dog Elder and said, "Elder, I'll step away for a moment…" "No need!" the Dog Elder replied calmly. "Just perform here." You're retaliating!! Zhang Yuanqing immediately turned to Fu Qingyang: Commander, please stand up for me! Fu Qingyang glanced away. Guan Ya silently pulled out her phone and turned on the recording function. "Dancing?" Jiang Jingwei beamed with excitement. "I'd like to see it—I'd like to see it…" Fine, I'm not the first to have fumbled in front of people. After all, I'm the inheritor of my uncle's legacy. Zhang Yuanqing stepped back with his left foot and lifted his toes, performing a bow. Soon after, the sound of sharp, rhythmic footfalls echoed from the study. A few minutes later, the red dance shoes completed their performance, satisfied, and performed a bow before dissolving into a radiant glow. The Dog Elder nodded in approval and said, "You may both step back. I have something to say to Yuan Shi." Fu Qingyang rose immediately, and as he passed by his trusted subordinate, gave a slight nod, expressing his approval of his dancing skills: "You're doing quite well." "...” Guan Ya held up her phone, smiling with a touch of dry amusement. Zhang Yuanqing took her hand: "I have only one request—don't let Yuan Ting find out." Fu Qingyang paused, glancing at their hands. Zhang Yuanqing immediately released her. After Jiang Jingwei had also departed, the Dog Elder spoke solemnly: "On my journey to the capital, I learned from Sun Elder that during a night excursion through the Spirit Realm, he encountered three Mountain Queens. It was there that he learned the reason they are seeking you." Zhang Yuanqing's heart suddenly tightened. The Dog Elder continued: "He would like you to sell the item that contains the yang spirit of one of the Three Mountain Queens. Would you be willing to do so?" The Vengeance Staff serves to purify and dispel demons, but it carries significant karmic consequences, making it easily traceable by the Old Stick over a thousand miles. If the Taiguan Sect can provide a substitute for the Fumu Chopper along with other valuable items—including cash—Zhang Yuanqing still would be willing to sell. This is much like the Fallen Holy Cup: though it's of high rank, it offers little direct benefit to him, so converting it into tangible, immediate advantages would be ideal. In exchange, he'd be happy to trade a few powerful items and settle the matter with Li Xianzong. "...”Zhang Yuanqing pondered, thinking over the right price to set for the sale. The Dog Elder nodded approvingly, “Don’t worry—I’ve already declined on your behalf. The Yang Po of the San Dao Mountain Lady is a rare treasure, and as the Night-Wanderer God, you will surely find it invaluable in the future. He thought that simply saying ‘the terms are flexible’ would be enough to secure this precious item from you?” “Elder, what did you just say?” “The Yang Po of the San Dao Mountain Lady is a rare treasure.” “No—did you mean that I should offer flexible terms?”Zhang Yuanqing expressed his deep regret. He had truly intended to sell, and he hoped the buyer would offer a high price The Dog Elder was momentarily stunned, feigning as if he hadn't noticed his growing interest, and continued: "It's natural that you're unwilling to part with it. The Yang Spirit of the Three Mountain Lady has three primary uses: first, it can be used to craft high-tier items; second, when you reach the Sovereign Realm, you can trade it with the Lady herself; and third, in the most extreme case, you can control her and even subjugate her. "In short, once you attain the Sovereign Realm, you'll be able to leverage this asset to become a top contender within that stage." This was the reason he had refused the Sun Elder's request—taking a risk that if Master Yuan Shǐ could ascend to Sovereign status, the Five-Element Alliance would gain another premier combatant. As for subjugating Old Bǎngzi... Zhang Yuanqing suddenly changed his mind, pondering: "But I'm afraid I won't be able to protect it." The Dog Elder replied: "If your concern is that the people of Taiyuan Sect secretly seize it, don't worry—senior elders wouldn't go that far, and the Five-Element Alliance wouldn't allow it either. What you should "As for the Spirit Realm, this is indeed a concern. You can temporarily hand over that item to the branch, which will hold it on your behalf until you're eligible to retrieve it later. Of course, the final decision is yours." Handing it over is the safest option—having the elders' endorsement ensures the official side won't sideline my item; otherwise, they have plenty of ways to do so... But then, I'd be losing a powerful piece of equipment. As far as I know, the Five Elements Alliance currently lacks any item of Night-Wanderer Sovereign level to replace the Immovable Pillar. They'll have to offer me whatever substitutes they have. As for the Spirit Realm, as long as we don't encounter special instances like the Golden-Water Park, which has been affected by older, more rigid players, there should be no issues. Zhang Yuanqing said, "I'll think about it." ... First floor, the Combat Room. Zhang Yuanqing, dressed in a white training uniform, performs the simple stretching exercises as instructed by Guan Ya. The Night-Wanderer has granted him strong physical conditioning and good flexibility. Now he can easily touch his toes without fear of pulling his groin. Guan Ya and Jiang Jingwei were both wearing white exercise uniforms, two women of striking beauty and excellent physical condition, pleasing to the eye. "Jingwei, why are you here too?" Zhang Yuanqing, pressing his legs, looked at the red-haired girl. "I came to fight with Guan Ya, and isn't that more exciting than going to school or work?" Jiang Jingwei said with enthusiasm. She didn't want to stay in the office any longer. Zhang Yuanqing's mind stirred: "Who's better between you and Guan Ya?" "Without relying on any special abilities, just in hand-to-hand combat, I've never won," Jingwei said honestly. Old Si Ji's martial skills are stronger than I thought—Jingwei isn't even her match. Guan Ya sat on the ground, her legs together, her body leaning forward, easily gripping the pink soles of her feet. If the neckline of her shirt were a bit lower, Zhang Yuanqing would surely receive some benefits. As she stretched, she continued: "You may be a beginner, but we've skipped over your strength training. There are countless martial arts styles—both domestically and internationally. I'll start by teaching you freestyle combat—it's the most suitable for you right now. "Once your level improves and you develop an interest in physical techniques, I'll then introduce you to other styles." "Sounds like you're well-versed in a wide variety of disciplines?" Zhang Yuanqing remarked with a new appreciation. Guan Ya remained in her crouched posture, smiling. "It's been forced upon me, honestly. The Fu family is rather uncaring—since childhood, they treat their children like insects to be cultivated, constantly demanding competition among peers. In academics, in combat, in swordsmanship... To avoid being beaten, one must simply train relentlessly. My talent is decent—I surpassed everyone except one cousin after I turned ten. Yet I've grown weary of this life. The higher the expectations of my elders, the less eager I become to strive." Unseen, you still remain close to Master Teng Yuan... Zhang Yuanqing asked, "What about the Centurion? Wasn't he outstanding in his youth?" "Outshone by me, at least—so I'd say, he was quite impressive." "Guan Ya puffed out a soft breath," "When he was young, he was frail and often ill, and his talent was considered mediocre—everyone thought he had no promising future... Well, let's just leave his past struggles aside." How could it be that among the Five Elements Alliance's most talented young people, someone ranked among the top contenders below the Master level had such mediocre talent? Zhang Yuan thought to himself—Fu Qingyang had quite a story of 'don't underestimate the young and poor.' After completing her stretching exercises, Zhang Yuan eagerly said, "Guan Ya姐, shall we begin?" With a subtle twist of her waist, Guan Ya straightened up and said, "To quickly improve your combat skills, we won't be using any special abilities—so let's begin." Zhang Yuan paused, "Free fighting—does that mean no restrictions?" Guan Ya nodded, "Victory is the only criterion—shouldn't you be making rules with your opponent?" ... As the sun dipped below the horizon, three hours later, Zhang Yuan, now weary, left the combat room and made her way to the main hall. In the first-floor lounge, on the expensive sofa, Ling Jun was laughing and chatting with two rabbit maids. When Zhang Yuanqing stepped out, Ling Jun and the rabbit maids fell silent. Ling Jun was stunned by Zhang Yuanqing's condition: "Your left face is swollen like a pig's head." "It was Guan Ya who did that." "What about the right side?" "It was Jing Wei." "Even if Ye You Shen has strong recovery abilities, he couldn't treat you this badly." Ling Jun said, clearly upset. "It's not that bad. Guan Ya said she wanted to teach me self-defense, and she only cares about winning—there are no rules. So I used a move she never heard of—the 'Grasping Cow-Drinking Dragon's Claw.'" "Then you're not at a loss, after all." "But I didn't even touch her." "Then why did Jing Wei hit you? Did you also use that legendary Dragon's Claw on her?" "Do I look like a weirdo? I just said: 'The Bull-Headed Person must die.'" "Ah, so she didn't kill you—she still loves you." At this moment, the rabbit maid brought him a black pepper steak, sausage, scrambled eggs, desserts, fruits, and functional beverages that she had prepared especially for him. Zhang Yuanqing stopped chatting and devoured his meal with great enthusiasm. ... Under the golden afternoon light, Zhang Yuanqing donned his cap and mask, covering himself completely, and quietly returned home. He entered his password, opened the security door, and heard the bustling sounds of the kitchen—his grandmother was preparing dinner. Zhang Yuanqing slipped into his bedroom and called out, "Grandmother, I had my meal outside. I'll be studying tonight, so please don't disturb me." "You should have told me earlier! Dinner has been made in abundance again," his grandmother exclaimed in frustration. "Just send it to Uncle, after all—he's always full and still hungry." Zhang Yuanqing replied. Upon hearing this, his grandmother agreed and settled down. Closing the bedroom door, Zhang Yuanqing first checked his messaging app. Shi Lingxi had sent a series of [crying] emojis to him just three hours earlier. Zhang Yuanqing replied, "I've been practicing combat skills, and I'm looking forward to when my brother's martial arts reach their peak." Xie Lingxi instantly responded, "After achieving peak mastery, will you then settle a score with someone?" Zhang Yuanqing: "No—instead, you'll be the one getting beaten up by her." Xie Lingxi sent a string of [crying] emojis. Zhang Yuanqing put down his phone and walked to the full-length mirror by the window, grimacing. The facial swelling had subsided, but internal injuries remained—steady aches in his waist and chest, likely due to damage to internal organs. "Honestly, she's so forceful. She claims to want to share a romantic getaway with me and to use me for practicing the 'chicken-tying' technique, yet when I simply express my admiration for her impressive bust, she's already on me with a full-on assault..." Indeed, Guo Ya had taught him some genuinely useful things. His biggest flaw, however, was that he relied solely on his fists and feet when fighting—he failed to effectively use his knees, elbows, shoulders, or back. Against opponents with lower physical fitness, he could maintain control; but when facing The night sky was heavy, the amusement park glowing with a dreamlike brilliance. A golden beam pierced the deep night, solidifying into a magnificent ancient-dress beauty. Her features were refined, her cheek contours sculpting a flawless face, her nose straight and delicate, her lips sensuous. In the night breeze, her skirt and hair swayed, cool and serene, like a fairy. The Queen of San Dao glanced at the entertainment facilities below—six small, weak ants, eyes closed, riding the roaring roller coaster. She turned her gaze away, not looking again, and descended in golden light to the eerie old manor. Here, the ambient chill stalled, the spirits of the haunted house bowing and trembling on the ground. A thick aura of darkness rose from deep within the manor, hovering three zhang away, and faintly, a figure dressed in a bridal gown bowed respectfully before her. The Queen of San Dao asked, "Have you found any clues about the person I sent for?"