The magical core, on the Continent of Qi, is also known as a magical crystal or as a precursor to elixirs and medicinal herbs. By name, it is a crystalline energy nucleus found within the bodies of mythical beasts, filled with intensely turbulent celestial and terrestrial energies. Even a Duke of Qi, a top-tier martial master, would hesitate to risk his life by forcibly absorbing such turbulent energy—fearing it might burst his body. While the magical core itself cannot be directly absorbed by humans, it is an indispensable primary ingredient for alchemists crafting medicines. When treated with specific alchemical techniques, the alchemist neutralizes the core's turbulent nature, transforming it into a variety of highly sought-after elixirs that significantly enhance one's abilities—dramatically increasing its value. Furthermore, magical cores can be imbued onto weapons. When a weapon is infused with a magical core, not only does its destructive power greatly intensify, but it also possesses an appealing effect of amplifying the user's Qi, making it especially popular among martial practitioners across the Continent. Of course, besides weapons, magical cores can also be imbued onto armor and other items, bestowing their owners with powerful defensive capabilities and offering them greater security when facing danger. With such a wide array of effects, magical cores have undoubtedly become the most popular and widely used material across the Qi Continent. Even esteemed alchemists often travel far and wide in search of high-grade cores to formulate more advanced medicines. Under this growing demand, magical cores are nearly always in short supply, and as soon as a high-grade core appears at an auction or elsewhere, it is swiftly snapped up at premium prices. The high cost of magical cores naturally gives rise to numerous mercenary companies that specialize in hunting magical beasts. Yet obtaining such cores remains no easy task. First, the beasts are not only powerful but also exceptionally cunning. Due to their fierce nature and unique attack methods, they often outperform human warriors of the same rank by a margin. Thus, it is not uncommon for a human warrior to fail in single-handedly eliminating a beast of equal strength—without exceptional prowess, such endeavors frequently result in more losses than gains. … turning several corners along the broad streets, they finally darted into a mid-sized market district located slightly south of the city—such mid-sized market districts are numerous in Utan City, each controlled by one of the city’s three prominent families. The one where Xiao Yan had arrived was governed by the Xiao family. Though they called it "control," in reality it was more about maintaining order and security within the market. In return, merchants and mercenaries who operated stalls within the market were required to pay a certain commission to the family—a longstanding custom on the Continent of Qi, rarely disrupted. Upon entering through the market gates, two Xiao family guards were stationed at the entrance. They clearly recognized Xiao Yan and his companion; upon seeing their arrival, they were momentarily taken aback before offering a slight bow. Nodding slightly, Xiao Yan walked straight in and stood by the main gate, gazing at the continuous flow of people inside. He couldn't help but pinch his lips—no wonder the family has strict control over the market. With such steady foot traffic, the profits must be substantial. Seeing Xiao Yan's puzzled gaze, the man smiled warmly and bowed respectfully, "Third少爷, I'm Pei'en. I've been appointed by the Clan Elder as the head of our security team, specifically to protect the safety of the marketplace. Hehe, I actually visited you last year on your birthday..." "Oh, so you're Pei'en Uncle," Xiao Yan blinked, though he didn't recall the man well. Still, Pei'en's introduction had warmed his expression. Since he was personally appointed by the Clan Elder, he must be a direct subordinate—loyalty was certainly not something to worry about. Although the Xiao family wasn't a particularly powerful clan, there were still several factions within it. If the man before him belonged to one of the other elder brothers' factions, Xiao Yan would simply have treated him with casual indifference. "Since I've grown a bit bored staying in the clan, I've come out to explore. Pei'en Uncle, go about your duties—should there be anything I can assist with, I'll call you." Xiao Yan's youthful voice lacked the lord's arrogance, instead carrying a warm, courteous tone that made listeners feel at ease. The simple title of "Uncle" instantly deepened Peen's smile, making it more sincere and enthusiastic. He nodded, gesturing with a slight tilt of his head and smiling warmly, "Then the third lord may wander at will. We have representatives all over the marketplace. If anything arises, just call out." "Hehe, the third young lord is still as gentle as ever—such comfort he brings..." Gazing at the three figures merging into the crowd, Pei-n began to smile, then sighed with a touch of regret: "Such a promising young man—alas..." Shaking his head with a sense of disappointment, Pei-n also took his subordinates to begin patrolling the streets... Xiao Yan nodded lightly, scanning the vendor beside him with his eyes. His spiritual perception was far stronger than that of an ordinary person, so he was well aware of the guards trailing behind. After glancing back, he slowed his pace, walking side by side with the young woman. Inhaling the fresh, lotus-like fragrance emanating from her, he playfully remarked, "Nine segments of combat energy—yet you can sense three guards skilled in concealment. Xun'er, quite remarkable indeed." Xun'er mimicked Xiao Yan’s gesture, gracefully raising her shoulders and then deploying her signature move: a warm smile, followed by silence. Watching her remain quiet, Xiao Yan’s lips curled into a warm, sincere smile. He gently tapped her small head with his hand, speaking softly so only the two could hear, "Though I still don’t fully understand your identity or background, I know one thing— you are my sister, Xiao Yan. No matter what happens in the future, remember this: whenever the storms come, stand behind me. I’ll take the brunt." With a gentle smile, Xiao Yan lightly tapped his palm again, stepped forward with quicker pace. As he moved off, Xun'er fluttered her beautiful, lively eyes, staring at the young man who had spoken and then gracefully walked ahead. She stood there, stunned, for a long while. Only after a moment did she regain her composure, her soft smile gradually spreading, finally transforming her delicate face into one full of allure. Amid the bustling crowd in the marketplace, the young girl stood with quiet grace, her elegant posture resembling a pure lotus in the midst of the world—refined, serene, and calm. "Sister? Well, Xun'er is quite particular, you know..." Tilting her head slightly, she softly murmured, then gently smiled, shifting her steps to follow the leisurely young man ahead. While Xiang was busy searching intently for a magical crystal, Xun drifted over to a clean stall, pausing gracefully. She extended her fair, delicate wrist, picking up a light green bracelet. Though the material was ordinary, it had been enhanced with a touch of ice silver, making it cool to the touch—perfect for summer wear. Though plain in substance, the bracelet was elegant and refined. After handling it thoughtfully, Xun was about to make a purchase when she remembered she had already lent all her money to Xiao Yan. She slightly turned her head, gazing at the young man absorbed in his own tasks, and shook her head with a sigh, offering a polite smile of apology to the elderly vendor before setting the bracelet down and continuing her slow, relaxed walk. By nature, Xun was rarely inclined to ask anyone—especially Xiao Yan—to buy something for her. Heh, I never expected to meet you here—what a coincidence! The delicate lines of her brow furrowed slightly as she followed the sound of voices. There was a crowd gathering, with a young man dressed in elegant attire at the center, surrounded by everyone else. The young man was in his twenties, handsome in appearance, though his complexion was slightly pale. His eyes, now blazing with warmth, were fixed intently on the graceful young woman standing a little distance away, clearly filled with unhidden admiration.