Yuan Shǐ Tian Zun? Fu Xue turned angrily, then swung out another palm, and her several bodyguards surged forward at once. At that moment, as she caught sight of the young man behind her, a gentle breeze brushed her face, stirring a soft warmth within her, and much of her anger melted away. With such a rich life experience, she found herself unexpectedly stirred. "Wait!" She paused mid-swing, changing her gesture to one of stop, holding back the three bodyguards who were rushing in. Fu Xue gazed at the young man with admiration. "Are you Yuan Shǐ Tian Zun?" When she asked this, a subtle upward curve formed at the corner of her mouth. She had seen photos of Yuan Shǐ Tian Zun and knew what he looked like, but seeing him in person revealed that he truly didn't shine on camera. The Yuan Shǐ Tian Zun before her had a clear, refined face, calm eyes, and an air of quiet mystery. There was an extraordinary charm about him—merely standing there, silent—his presence immediately stirred a strong sense of attraction in Fu Xue. "Yes, it's me." Zhang Yuanqing nodded slightly, released his mother-in-law's wrist, and with a warm, humble expression, said, "Mother, seeing you now, I finally understand why Guan Ya is so beautiful. It's clearly your genes that make the difference—I think Guan Ya still falls a bit short compared to you." That was quite honest. He had been pleasantly surprised by his mother-in-law's appearance—she was not only exceptionally beautiful and youthful, but when standing beside Guan Ya, she seemed more like a sister than a mother. After all, a woman praised by Ling Jun as "beautiful" couldn't be far from the mark. Guan Ya's habit of wearing skirts with white shirts was actually learned from her mother. "Such a good conversationalist," Fu Xue smiled, lifting her hand gently to pat Zhang Yuanqing's face. "Now I see why Guan Ya has always been so fond of you. Honestly, you're so charming that even a woman would be instantly captivated." She glanced over at Guan Ya. "She truly is quite impressive." Zhang Yuanqing thought to himself, Well, thank goodness I'm not the Magi King—otherwise, Mother-in-law, you'd be in real Guan Ya was stunned. Yuan Shi's flattery was exactly as she expected, consistent with his character. But her mother's reaction was truly unexpected. In Guan Ya's eyes, Yuan Shi was indeed charming and handsome—what's known as "a lover's eyes see beauty in their beloved." She had a clear sense of self-awareness. Yuan Shi's reputation as a celestial sovereign did indeed appeal strongly to young women, such as the two persistent concubines in the villa. Yet, could a seasoned, experienced woman like her mother be captivated by a young man? Someone she would truly admire must be a mature, accomplished man of substance. What kind of men had she not seen? Amid her growing confusion, Guan Ya's eyes flashed with caution, and a growing irritation stirred within her. Her mother's gaze toward Yuan Shi made her deeply uncomfortable—she sensed a direct threat. Fu Qingyang's expression initially seemed slightly dazed, then settled as he looked steadily at Yuan Shi, as if suddenly understanding something. "Mother's discernment is truly excellent." Zhang Yuanqing raised his thumb in approval and then pleaded, "Mother, I and Guan Ya are truly in love. Please grant me your favor and make this wish come true—I will surely repay you someday." Fu Xue gave a soft sigh, gently patting Yuan Shǐ Tian Zun on the face with a fond expression, then her expression turned stern. "No way!" Indeed, it wasn't that easy—though the Peach Blossom Scroll had strengthened her good feelings toward me, it hadn't quite driven her to lose her judgment. Zhang Yuanqing sighed, yet unwilling to give up, saying, "Mother, how can I demonstrate my capabilities? Perhaps you just need to tell me what you desire—only as long as you don't take Guan Ya away, I will do everything in my power to fulfill your wishes." Guan Ya felt warmed by this, as a scout, she could sense Yuan Shǐ's true intentions; though she spoke of cutting off her mother-in-law, she was actually thinking of her all along. "There's no room for compromise," Fu Xue coldly rejected, then her tone softened, and she smiled, "Master Yuan Shǐ, you are the official's key cultivated talent. Your future is bright There’s no need to worry about the dogtail grass in my household. "As for your matter with Guan Ya, Auntie won’t hold it against you. Auntie can make up for it—she’ll introduce you to one of the young ladies from our family." She glanced at Fu Qingyang and Guan Ya, then shifted her tone. Without further words, Fu Xue stepped back, clasped her hands together at her waist, stood with poised grace, and said softly, "Take Guan Ya away." The three bodyguards immediately moved toward Guan Ya. Guan Ya quickly retreated, reaching out her right hand to the space before her, and the sound of the dragon’s roar echoed as a three-foot bronze sword appeared in her palm—the one Fu Qingyang had given her. She looked toward her mother, now resolute and unshakable, "It’s clear you haven’t taken my words to heart, Fu Xue. I’ve already decided to become an orphan. Are you ready?" "Ready for what?" Auntie Fu asked, frowning. Guan Ya pointed her sword directly at her, the sword’s aura pushing back the one bodyguard who had stepped forward in a formal suit. Calmly, she said Fu Xue's face was pale with frost, her phoenix eyes wide and blazing. Her delicate fingers, never used to the warmth of spring water, clenched into fists, slightly trembling—she was on the verge of fury. Another clash was unavoidable... Zhang Yuanqing sighed, preparing to walk toward Guan Ya and join her in battle. At that moment, Fu Qingyang's calm, composed voice broke the tension. "Yuanshi, Guan Ya, you two go ahead. I have something to say to my aunt." He glanced at them. Could the eldest really handle his now-mentally-unstable mother-in-law? I thought he'd just stand by. It turns out he truly cares for me. Zhang Yuanqing read the subtle hint in Fu Qingyang's words and felt a surge of joy. He had a quiet, unshakeable confidence in his grasp of the money heir's situation. Guan Ya's brows also relaxed. Without hesitation, Zhang Yuanqing took his girlfriend's hand and walked off, turning back to charm Fu Xue with a warm smile. "Aunt, please take your time with the eldest. I'll meet you downstairs with Guan Ya." Fu Xue indeed didn't object, merely offering a neutral, gentle She had all the time in the world—Guan Ya could run for a while, but not for life. After the two had departed, Fu Qingyang slowly said, "The Prime Immortal is different from you all. He possesses exceptional potential and a strong, determined spirit that thrives even under adversity. His ascension to the rank of Sovereign is merely a matter of time. Auntie, you've rejected a senior disciple." "He truly is different," Fu Xue said, reapproaching the desk and settling into a relaxed seat, a gentle smile playing on her lips. "He's a very composed young man—I must admit, he has a strong appeal." She paused slightly, shedding her graceful demeanor, and with her fresh, jade-like fingers crossed over her abdomen, she spoke seriously. "I gathered information about him before coming. Though his progression during the Transcendent stage matches that of Xuan Xuan, and although the official designation calls him a natural leader, we both know how difficult it is to become a half-divine being. The performance during the Transcendent stage doesn't tell the whole story. It is only when he continues to demonstrate such extraordinary pace even at the Saint level that I can truly recognize his potential." "This only shows that he will become the sovereign. As for the qualifications of a Grand Alliance Leader, there have been many, like the Prime Origin Immortal, who have advanced with such vigor since the first generation of spiritual realm travelers emerged. But how many have been as exceptional as Xuan Xuan? The Prime Origin Immortal might truly become a senior elder. Hmph—do we really lack an official elder from our Fu family? The Millet family can offer us much more: the added value of a century-old family, in networks, commercial resources, intelligence channels, across industries, and in every aspect." She projected the demeanor of a sharp, accomplished business executive at a negotiation table—clear in logic, forceful in expression. Fu Qingyang responded to his aunt's lengthy discourse with a concise assessment: "Stupid! Haven't you noticed that since the conflict involving the Disc of Radiant Light, the Fu family has gradually shifted its core base to within the domestic realm? When Fu Qingxuan once challenged the trials and nearly perished, why did the elders not intervene? And why, when I chose to join the White Tiger military contingent and take up service in Songhai, did the elders still agree?" By tradition over the past several years, they've preferred sending the spiritual practitioners from their clan to the Heavenly Punishment for training. "Even the least capable ones would still involve both sides—yet over the years, the young talents with potential from our clan have all been assigned to the Five Elements Alliance. Have you ever wondered why?" Fu Xue gently furrowed her refined, elegant brows. Over the years, she has gradually distanced herself from the core of the Fu family's power, being sent by the elders to manage the family's enterprises. Due to information gaps, she has grown increasingly slow and less perceptive in many matters. It is precisely for this reason that she now urgently wants to marry Guan Ya into the Mi-Ler family, in order to re-enter the heart of the Fu family's power structure. Fu Xue pressed her full, sensuous lips together and said, "Just get straight to the point." In a few years, the Fu family's influence will fully shift back to the domestic sphere. To establish a solid presence locally, a series of power struggles will inevitably arise. Relying solely on Fu Qingxuan would not be enough. Without the Alliance's leader actively handling affairs, she Fu Qingyang spoke with confidence: "Therefore, the clan elders will certainly support my entry into the headquarters, making me the family's representative. The process won't be smooth. At this moment, having a promising new senior elder backing me—what does that mean, you should understand. Fu Qingyang leaned forward, supporting himself on the table, gazing directly into his aunt's eyes, and said calmly, "A few years down the line, should the clan elders decide to sell off overseas assets and shift their focus back to domestic operations—what would be the point of you still working tirelessly at the Miller family? Don't think this is merely a failed investment; it's far more complex. By then, you'll have already arranged Guan Ya's marriage, and the Yuan Shi Tian Zun will hold a grudge against you, eventually retaliating. Will the clan elders, perhaps, choose to sacrifice you in order to calm his anger?" Fu Xue's face changed instantly. She took a deep breath, pressing her face almost against her nephew’s, and asked sharply, “Fu Qingyang, stop playing games with me. The marriage alliance is arranged by the clan elders—it’s a matter of vital family strategy. The family has numerous overseas ventures; how could it simply relocate without any prior notice?” Fu Xue suddenly lifted her gaze, questioning, "I never expected you to go to all this trouble for Guan Ya—this isn't like you." Fu Qingyang's arguments were sound, but he was far too proactive, which contrasted sharply with the image she had of her nephew—cold, calculating, full of schemes, naturally reserved. This young man was usually indifferent and harsh toward family members, often using dismissive terms, and would casually break a peer's legs whenever they had previously wronged him, employing particularly cruel measures. He only showed any kindness toward Guan Ya, and even then, only a little. How could Fu Qingyang ever have been so generous and attentive to others? Fu Xue began to suspect that her nephew was merely trying to manipulate her. "That weakling certainly doesn't deserve my time," Fu Qingyang said calmly, "I'm acting on behalf of the Yuan Shi Tian Zun." "On behalf of the Yuan Shi Tian Zun?" Fu Xue's face flashed with surprise. This reason was even more difficult for her to grasp. Fu Qingyang glanced at the three bodyguards standing by, "You go ahead and step out." Three bodyguards turned to Fu Xue, and upon receiving her nod, turned to leave. Fu Qingyang stood straight at the edge of the table, saying, "I hold the Yuanshiyuan Master in high regard. He and I are of the same kind—both driven by a strong desire to excel. I also have great confidence in him; he is my trusted ally and will become a key force in my journey to reach the pinnacle. I believe this relationship deserves careful nurturing, so I kindly ask you not to undermine my efforts. Of course, helping him with his personal matters is my small token of appreciation." As he spoke, Fu Qingyang produced a black cloak embroidered with golden cloud patterns, placing it gently on the table and looking at Fu Xue. "The Milu family can offer you networks and business resources, but they cannot provide this. You may touch it—though I will only allow you to touch one corner." Armor? Fu Xue furrowed her brow, extending a delicate jade finger and pressing it gently against one corner of the cloak. The next moment, the item's information appeared. Fu Xue only glanced at it, and instantly her whole body trembled—emotionally, passionately, with a gleam of greed and intense longing in her beautiful eyes. Her face went blank, as though she couldn't believe such a property existed in the world. For a scout, this was a treasure surpassing even rule-based items—an invaluable treasure. He presented an item so valuable that it would stir up storms and bloodshed among the scout families—compared to this, the benefits gained through the Miller family's marital alliances were nothing short of trivial. "Master Yuanshishen is indeed a rising star with no established assets or broad industry connections, yet his depth of foundation surpasses what you might imagine. If you merely view him as a promising young man, it will be you who will regret it," Fu Qingyang said calmly. "Of course, I'm not suggesting that Master Yuanshishen will present you with something equally impressive. My point is simply to help you properly assess his worth, and to reflect carefully: whether to embrace his affection, or to continue pursuing your path with the Miller family." With these words, Fu Qingyang's strategic persuasion was nearly complete, save for the final step: "You needn't decide now. Give it a few more months. After all, investments don't have to be rushed." He then turned and departed gracefully, leaving Fu Xue alone at the table, gazing blankly into space. Since the engagement had been confirmed, she had, for the first time in many years, begun to waver, to hesitate. After an indeterminate length of time, the door to the study was pushed open, and a well-dressed bodyguard hurried in, stopped at the desk, and handed her a phone, saying, "Boss, you have a call." Fu Xue finally came back to herself, her previously vacant gaze regaining its sparkle as she looked at the phone.