— The Peony Fairy and the Xiao Xian Nv of Niu Lan Shan took the lead. Zhao Chenghuang also submitted an application to the "Stellar Observer" teacher for an island visit, though he chose not the Spirit-Plant Island, but the Chicken-Heart Island. While having porridge, Zhao Chenghuang unusually proactively approached Zhang Yuanqing and said, "I've booked a private lesson this afternoon to absorb the Yin energy on Chicken-Heart Island, with the Stellar Observer accompanying. Would you like to join me?" Zhang Yuanqing agreed. Indeed, he needed to learn the combat techniques of the seasoned Saint from a master, and would eventually have to purchase private lessons. Moreover, Zhao Chenghuang seemed particularly focused on the Yin energy. So far, however, he still didn't know how to cultivate the Yin, the stars, or the Sun energy effectively. Routine progression would not suffice—Zhang Yuanqing suspected special methods were required, and this was a perfect opportunity to inquire about them with Zhao Chenghuang and the "Stellar Observer." The Wohuang's Embrace—wasn't that the artifact held by the Master of the Stop-Killing Palace? According to the Headmaster, that artifact was unearthed by the Senior Elder of the Hundred Blossoms Assembly from the Qin Feng Academy's quest. How could it end up in the hands of this eccentric one? This isn't the most puzzling part. If the Master of the Stop-Killing Palace possesses the Wohuang's Embrace, how could she not know of the Wohuang at all? When I last asked her, why did she conceal this knowledge? "She knows of the Wohuang's existence, which is why she mentioned that things from the High Heaven Origin might profoundly alter her fate. This stubborn woman—I'll have to give her a good scolding once I leave the quest." Zhang Yuanqing silently vowed in his heart. "The things you shared in class were quite interesting," Zhao Chenguo remarked. In truth, only the prophecy of the Light and Radiance Compass carried real substance; the rest were mere speculations, no different from the theory that extraterrestrial beings created the spiritual realm. Zhang Yuanqing said seriously, "As long as I can pass on knowledge to others, I'll be content." Zhao Chenghuang silently watched him. “What’s wrong?” Zhang Yuanqing asked. True sharing never requires payment—how could one be so shameless… Zhao Chenghuang said calmly, “Nothing.” Soon, they arrived at Jixin Island. Zhang Yuanqing and Zhao Chenghuang, the Star-Sky Observer, stepped onto the shore. Behind them, the sweet, melodic voices of the official female saints echoed: “Lord Tianzun, good-bye!!” Without hesitation, Zhang Yuanqing turned and gave them a graceful kiss: “Good-bye, my beloved ladies.” This drew a cascade of soft, bell-like laughter. As he watched the pleasure boat depart, the poised, enigmatic middle-aged man remarked: “The last one so beloved by women was Ling Jun, the flower prince.” Zhang Yuanqing’s expression grew serious. “Indeed, he is my master!” The Star-Sky Observer was momentarily startled, then his tone turned cold. “By the way, I’m also from the Tai Men Sect—Ling Jun once courted my sister.” Zhang Yuanqing was furious. He tore off a corner of his T-shirt and shouted, “Ling Jun "The stargazer smiled, 'You're quite witty.' Zhao Chenghuang maintained a cold expression, saying nothing. The three of them walked steadily into the dense, eerie forest and settled down beneath a locust tree hosting a restless spirit. The spirit on the tree trembled. After settling, Zhao Chenghuang immediately closed his eyes to meditate. The stargazer said, 'My main responsibility is to keep an eye on him, ensuring he doesn't absorb too much yin energy. Besides the cost of his island visit, Chenghuang has also purchased an additional private lesson, so I can teach you some techniques and knowledge from the star official system.' That was effectively Chenghuang inviting him to a guest session. This young man appears reserved on the surface, yet is genuinely appreciative—aware of the favors he owes to me from the killing raids, and always finds opportunities to repay them. Zhang Yuanqing asked, 'Do star officials primarily serve in support roles?' The stargazer paused, 'Well, one could say their combat style isn't as direct. Let me explain the techniques of Star Evocation first. Most star officials prepare two tools: one for close-range combat and another for ranged attacks.' Coordinate night ambulation and star-darting techniques. When encountering fighters proficient in close combat—such as fire masters, swordsmen, or enchanting spirits—use star-darting to stretch the engagement and wear down the opponent. When facing those less adept in close quarters—such as water ghosts, musicians, or illusionists—launch surprise attacks using night ambulation. "Our night ambulation specialists are well-rounded warriors, though not particularly strong in close combat compared to swordsmen and similar roles," Zhang Yuanqing frowned. "However, star-darting is quite demanding on spiritual energy—literally, the blue health bar runs out quickly." The Sky Observer smiled. "As long as you specialize in celestial energy, this won't be an issue. You've now reached the rank of Saint, so you'll need to choose a path. We'll discuss that later. For now, let's focus on the techniques of using star-astrology. Although star-astrology is an auxiliary skill, it's exceptionally effective. How far have you developed it?" Zhang Yuanqing paused, then recounted the experiences he gained during the battle at the Universal Treasure House. "By observing the target's facial expressions to verify my plans... Indeed, you have great talent. Within just a month of becoming a star official, you've already mastered the proper application of celestial astrology—something I only learned from my senior mentors at the Taiguan Sect." The middle-aged teacher carefully examined Yuan Shishen, as if seeing a piece of fine jade, deeply impressed by his potential. Zhao Chenghuang's expression grew subtly serious. "Given your current level, your development of celestial astrology is already at an exceptional standard. When you reach level five, the feedback from facial expressions will become even clearer—such as being able to see visions of your own death during a blood-related disaster. At that point, you will also learn the art of stargazing." The celestial observer explained. "Now, I would like to elaborate on the characteristics of the Star Official stage." This function, similar to that of the Yatsumi Mirror, enables early prediction of death and other visions—making the Star Official an ideal position for someone who prefers to operate behind the scenes, devising strategies and orchestrating subtle schemes. Zhang Yuanqing listened attentively. "Due to their mastery of astrology and celestial observation, the star officials are formidable strategists—they can perceive the course of all things in the universe through the stars and thus plan ahead. For instance, because of my sister's matter, I intended to eliminate Ling Jun, yet Ling Jun is the son of the gate's master, so I cannot act. Therefore, I observed the heavens at night and discovered that he would attend a banquet on a certain future day, where he would be involved in a romantic affair. Indeed, he is currently in Songhai—so I began to identify evil professionals in Songhai, sending him intelligence or more subtly guiding him to infiltrate the banquet and carry out his assassination. Naturally, there are many subtle maneuvers involved—such as the professionals I seek must be those who harbor a grudge against Ling Jun or are fiercely combative, never sparing anyone. Hmm, Yuan Shi Tian Zun, your complexion seems a bit pale." "Not at all, I'm fine..." Zhang Yuanqing's face turned pale, his mind racing with a thousand stampeding horses. He recalled the Pure Yang Master. The stargazer continued, "For instance, through celestial observation, you discover that in the near future, you face a life-threatening danger. The stars offer vague clues—where the danger originates, what kind of peril it is. At this point, you must begin to strategize: identify your adversaries, determine the nature of the threat, and ascertain which tactics and allies can effectively counter them, laying out your plans step by step, ultimately surviving... Hm, Master Yuan-Shi, what's wrong with you?" "I'm fine..." "No, your face is pale." "...”Zhang Yuanqing took a deep breath. "Master, how do we counter the celestial officials' abilities?" "Unless we know their entire strategy, we have no way to respond. Yet we ourselves are celestial officials—our celestial observation skills are mutually counteracting, so it comes down to who is more skilled. Then, by specializing in the power of the Moon and advancing to the stage of mastery, you gain the ability to counter the celestial officials." "The stargazer carefully explained: 'The Yin Moon symbolizes the hidden. Take the "Night Wanderer" skill, for instance—Yin Moon's power can elude the celestial officials' predictions.' Zhang Yuanqing's mind was in a whirl. A long-buried question surged back to the surface. Had the Demon King truly passed away? The Demon King was just one step away from the highest rank. Even if he wasn't primarily trained in celestial energies, his mastery of astronomy was no ordinary thing. He had left behind so much—character cards, the black full moon, an electronic watch without a strap, treasure maps for his beloved companions. Had he truly died? Had Father Zhang Zizhen truly passed away? Although the Twin Suns might not yet have reached the status of deities, their foundation was at the peak of mastery. Father was also a Night Wanderer, though the specific discipline he focused on remained unclear. He, too, had clearly laid out contingency plans. Given the current evidence, after the conclusion of the Light Compass competition, he had been steadily plotting and strategizing over the years. His cause of death seemed illogical, and his funeral had been handled with simplicity. Had he truly passed away?" Was the Pure Yang Master's entry into the banquet truly accidental? He had just joined Qin Feng Academy, and immediately, the Minashiro group sent Asano Ryouta for assistance—revealing the connection between the Kotohira and Qin Feng Academy. Was that also a coincidence? Moreover, the leader of the Night Rose is itself a Night Traveler, a high-ranking figure. How could such a precious asset as the Little Sun have been so easily captured by us? Did we really capture him? The one who disguised himself as the Mage King knows Black Unusual and is fully aware of what's unfolding here—this perfectly fits the profile of a master strategist. Who exactly is he? I can't think any further—I can't think at all—my san value is plummeting. Zhang Yuanqing's mind is in complete disarray.