A person so well-adjusted had just died—so strangely, so dramatically… Zhang Yuanqing stood stunned in place, his mind still reeling. Fu Qingyang, on the other hand, seemed calm and composed. He pulled out his access card, opened the iron gate, and spoke with steady assurance: “Go check whether any spirit traces remain.” “Okay, okay…” Zhang Yuanqing recovered himself, setting aside his shock, and hurried into the prison cell, stopping by the bedside. His eyes filled with a thick, black liquid that spread over his sclera, and he examined the surroundings for a while before shaking his head: “There’s no spirit residue left—Cheng Yue’s soul has completely dispersed. The death was clean.” As he said this, the energy within his eyes gradually receded, restoring normal vision. Fu Qingyang paused thoughtfully. “The Wu Gu Master’s curse technique can remotely annihilate a Sage-level practitioner. The practitioner must be of high rank and likely possess Cheng Yue’s birth chart—blood, flesh, hair, all carrying DNA information.” So then—the organization behind Cheng Yue is the Spirit Energy Association? No—if that were the case, he would have been uncovered during the Large Health Checkup. The Wu Gu Master may not be the only one capable of this technique; it could also be achieved using props… Zhang Yuanqing said solemnly: “Is the curse technique a form of curse? Is it a Sage-level skill of the Wu Gu Masters?” To be honest, the Wu Gu Master profession isn’t unfamiliar to him—from ‘the injustice of Heaven’ to Black No-Commons, down to the bosses in Yin-Yang Town—all are Wu Gu Masters. Yet this kind of remote curse technique—this is the first time he’s witnessed it—and feels quite unsettling. Fu Qingyang methodically removed the wooden restraints and manacles, then said: “Cursing techniques represent a type of true curse—the very essence of true magic. Among the three Evil Organizations, Wu Gu Masters are known for their subtle, insidious nature. Often, they don’t face opponents head-on but instead poison them or gather information—birth charts, DNA samples, photographs—and then perform rituals from afar to remotely eliminate targets and drain their fortune. Among all these, DNA is the most crucial: once secured by a Wu Gu Master, death is almost inevitable—only a few specific abilities can counteract it.” So, I’ve never actually seen a true Wu Gu Master in action. From now on, I must safeguard my own DNA—and avoid touching women whose origins are unclear; DNA doesn’t merely exist within cells! Zhang Yuanqing took a deep breath and shifted his focus back to the matter at hand, expressing regret: “Had I known earlier, I should have killed her right away and questioned her about Cheng Yue’s spirit.” “It’s not too late to regret what has already happened,” Fu Qingyang replied. “The fact that she chose to eliminate you—already speaks volumes.” He always maintains such composure, as if a mountain were about to collapse before him but he remained unmoved—he is confident in all things. “Is it truly her, Cheng Yue’s former wife?” Zhang Yuanqing asked sincerely. Fu Qingyang nodded: “Most likely, though Cheng Yue has already passed away—she now stands as a witnessless case. She isn’t part of the Five Elements Alliance, so she cannot be compelled to undergo the Large Health Checkup. For now, we have no options.” He glanced at his trusted associate and shook his head with mild resignation: “I’ve heard that the elderly lady from Zhu Family holds a grudge—she lost her husband to you and suffered financial setbacks. I’m certain she will not hesitate to repay the favor. Yet… I think you’re already burdened by more than enough debts.” Zhang Yuanqing remembered Cheng Yue’s tragic death scene, his heart pounding: “Hundred-man Commander, these powerful adversaries—these very forces—I’ve summoned—aren’t they all serving our organization? Then why should the organization turn against me?” Fu Qingyang replied calmly: “The curse technique requires a medium. As long as you keep your DNA secure, there’s nothing to fear—not even if she personally comes by and asks for your hair.” Zhang Yuanqing added: “I’m afraid of that old lady—she might just seduce me.” Fu Qingyang paused and then said: “I’ll inform her. This case isn’t yet closed—we may revisit it later. We still need to confirm whether she’s truly the culprit.” Zhang Yuanqing nodded—he would lock down the suspect, and when the time comes, he would settle the matter with due justice. That is what is meant by—justice might be delayed, but it will never fail to arrive. Fu Qingyang lifted his left hand and glanced at his wristwatch: “You should go see Guan Ya now—I’ve scheduled my guests to arrive in ten minutes.” … On the first floor of the villa, in the west wing’s combat room. Guan Ya wore a loose exercise gown, stretching by the window, while Zhang Yuanqing stretched beside her several meters away. Though Fu Qingyang has instructed the Zhu Family lady to be cautious, she might not easily accept this. The curse technique is so effective—once you miss an opportunity, you may fall into a crisis right in the middle of your journey… Zhang Yuanqing now felt a pressing need to strengthen himself. The activation of an Instance requires time—it cannot be rushed. In the meantime, there are two practical paths to boost his abilities: one is to wait for the official Grand Tournament to begin and secure a good ranking with rewards; the other is to eliminate a practitioner at the Elevated Stage from among the Evil Organizations, transform them into a spectral body, and emerge as an outstanding force in his own right. In the coming period, these two matters will remain his primary focus. Of course, he must also avoid being pursued by the Eye of the Divine King—the real issue is that the branch elder’s staunch idealist won’t allow him to rest. Until this man is removed, Zhang Yuanqing finds it impossible to sleep soundly. Zhang Yuanqing returned his thoughts, turned to the elegant mixed-race woman with a refined and graceful appearance, and asked: “Why did you suddenly decide to practice combat today?” I wanted to surprise you—today… Guan Ya thought bitterly, smiling gently: “It’s been some time since I last practiced—I just want to see if your skills have declined.” Zhang Yuanqing chuckled: “The past few days at home, I’ve been practicing my footwork and punching techniques every day.” At that moment, as he observed the floor-to-ceiling window, he noticed a sleek black luxury sedan parked outside the villa. The car doors opened—two figures stepped out. One was an exquisite woman with golden hair and green eyes; her skin was like fresh milk, slender yet full-figured. Behind her walked a middle-aged man in a well-tailored suit, his short brown hair marked by fine lines of the Finer Line Pattern, deep-set eyes reflecting both depth and maturity—true of a seasoned man of mid-life. Isn’t this Anni and Mr. Tarantini? How did they end up at Fu Family Village? Are these precisely the guests Fu Qingyang mentioned? Zhang Yuanqing was taken aback and quickly leaned forward to watch closely. Guan Ya followed his gaze, peering through the landscape trees—and saw the two foreigners entering the villa. She paused briefly on the elegant Anni before turning her attention to Fu Qingyang’s counterpart—her eyes now full of irritation. Guan Ya clenched her teeth, feeling an inexplicable sense of restlessness. “Stop staring,” she said, “Let’s begin training.” She launched herself into the air, swiftly clamping her long, straight legs around Zhang Yuanqing. Rotating her torso like a crocodile, she rolled dramatically and landed with a crisp snap—pinning Zhang Yuanqing flat on the beech wood floor. “Hey! You didn’t even show courtesy!” Zhang Yuanqing was furious. They fought immediately—the combat room echoed with sharp "pats" and "cracks." In the lush courtyard, Mr. Tarantini suddenly turned his head toward the villa’s western wing. “What is it?” Anni asked. Mr. Tarantino looked back, smiled: “I just sensed someone watching us.” Anni replied with a graceful smile: “Isn’t it normal to be watched by someone so captivating? Who could resist my charm?” Mr. Tarantino said gently: “Indeed—so beautiful a lady—can she manage to capture the attention of Mr. Fu and secure the most favorable terms for us?” “Of course!” Anni responded with confidence. … An hour later, Zhang Yuanqing emerged from the combat room, his face streaked with bruises, and entered the adjacent shower to rinse off. Honestly—she didn’t even give a light touch; I hadn’t demonstrated my lost-in-the-ages Dragon Claw technique at all… Zhang Yuanqing returned to the living room, glanced out the door—he saw the black sedan still parked there. Then he walked into the dining area and enjoyed the food prepared by the Rabbit Dancer organization. He took a piece of steak slowly, savoring each bite, then remembered that Fu Qingyang’s family holds substantial operations abroad—like Guan Ya, he was raised overseas as a child. Thus, it makes perfect sense that he has connections with foreign Realm Walkers. Zhang Yuanqing chewed his steak thoughtfully and lifted the bowl overflowing with mashed potatoes. With each spoonful, the soft, velvety potatoes blended with a distinct sauce and pepper—perfectly balanced in flavor, leaving behind an enduring aftertaste. After finishing the potatoes, footsteps approached from the stairs—accompanied by the attentive voice of Ling Jun: “Ms. Anni, please don’t rush to leave—wouldn’t it be an honor if I could invite you for dinner? Mr. Fu is such a strict, restrained man—he barely knows how to treat women properly—but I do! Ms. Anni, Ms. Anni?” Zhang Yuanqing quickly poked his head out and saw Mr. Tarantino and Miss Anni walking toward the door—determined not to stop at all. Ling Jun followed close behind in his slippers, constantly offering remarks about “Ms. Anni” and “dinner.” A true devoted puppy. Unfortunately, Ling Jun’s enthusiasm didn’t win over a single glance from Anni—or even an acknowledgment—as she drove off in the luxury sedan. Zhang Yuanqing stepped out with a piece of golden-brown sausage in his hand, smiling: “The foreign horses may be well-bred—yet they’re overly spirited and aloof. I think Ling Jun will continue to favor domestic brands.” Ling Jun shrugged and lay back into the soft sofa: “I’m not sure about their spirited nature—but I can say their standards are high—they simply don’t appreciate ordinary Realm Walkers.” “Ordinary?” Zhang Yuanqing asked, swallowing his sausage. “Didn’t you tell her your status? You’re one of the most distinguished princes on the mainland.” Ling Jun chuckled: “I’ve been playing games with her—there’s a vast array of beautiful women in life worthy of deep appreciation—but the women from the Beauty Association remain prickly—they are like thorned roses. Do you know what I mean by the Beauty Association? It consists entirely of women dedicated to passion and desire. These female members have one unique skill: they can demand a price—typically in exchange for a relationship—from any opposite-sex partner they’ve had intimacy with. Therefore, the senior executives at the Beauty Association each maintain hundreds—even thousands—of romantic partners. They thrive by sleeping men—and command influence throughout overseas.” Zhang Yuanqing responded with genuine astonishment: “I never knew such a profession existed. What stage is this skill at? Is it Sage-level or Elevated?” “I believe it’s Elevated Stage… Ah, I’m sorry—I think Miss Anni was actually at the Sage level—what a pity!” Ling Jun expressed disappointment. If she were at the Elevated Level, he could have used his rank to assert dominance and compelled her to accept—paying no cost at all. But since they are of the same level, that’s no longer possible. “They’re foreign Realm Walkers—why are they here?” Zhang Yuanqing asked, seeking clarification. “What else can a floating profession do? They must conduct business. The Place division annually sorts through underperforming or surplus props and materials and sells them off. As traders in the Spirit Realm world, the Floating Professions act as merchants—they deeply value trade. Consequently, their merchant guild holds an unparalleled inventory—both in variety and volume—outstripping every other organization. As long as you can afford it, you can procure props and materials from any profession through them. The major trading seasons occur in June and December—though the elders usually don’t oversee such routine matters. After Mr. Fu Qingyang arrived, the responsibility for trade has been entrusted to him. That Anni was constantly flattering her beauty, attempting to charm our very dedicated Mr. Fu—her intentions were quite insidious.” I could now sell off any props I no longer need—or exchange them with Mr. Tarantino—for far better value than simply submitting them back to the branch… After all, my accumulated points and honors have become rather irrelevant at this point. Zhang Yuanqing recalled Miss Anni’s stormy departure: “So then—Mr. Hundred-man Commander didn’t fall for it?” Ling Jun rolled his eyes: “Not only did she not succumb—he was firm in stating that if the transaction included her physical presence, we would have to pay an additional fee for emotional and psychological loss.” What a shame… Zhang Yuanqing silently covered his face. He realized now that Fu Qingyang is actually quite sharp—over time, the more one interacts with him, the more one notices how sharply he speaks beneath his coldly reserved exterior. As for what happened next—he could already imagine it all without Ling Jun needing to describe it further. “Business,” Ling Jun said, “always requires negotiation. They’ll be back in a few days—indeed, the Place division’s vast stores of materials and props are extremely appealing to them.” Then he added: “You’ve just used your long-forgotten secret move on Guan Ya again, haven’t you?” “No,” Zhang Yuanqing said, feeling embarrassed. “I didn’t do anything—I was merely caught off guard when she attacked me the moment I arrived.” Ling Jun nodded in understanding and spoke with a tone of sincere empathy: “Yuan Shi, I’ve met quite a few beautiful women lately in Songhai. I’ll recommend you several—each one is so considerate, warm, gentle, and graceful. As long as you have money, they’re all yours.” Zhang Yuanqing pulled out his smartphone, speaking with firm dignity. “I’m not someone like that!” …… The next day. After breakfast, Zhang Yuanqing went out with his aunt. Inside the carriage, Jiang Yubi, carrying a small bag, stood beside Zhang Yuanqing who carried a backpack. The bright, reflective elevator doors clearly reflected their silhouettes. Jiang Yubi’s attire was simple—light yellow short-sleeved shirt, tailored seven-quarter pants, and white running shoes. This outfit accentuated her figure beautifully, adding a touch of youthful energy. Combined with her sweet, approachable face, she seemed nothing short of a well-developed young girl. Not quite a twenty-five-year-old woman. Zhang Yuanqing admired his aunt’s flawless beauty in the mirror—her features were refined and charming, and her skin had a lustrous, jade-like quality. After looking at her for a while, one might almost think she was a statue of jade. Different from those typically described as having a rosy complexion. Jiang Yubi tilted her head upward at a forty-five-degree angle, studying Zhang Yuanqing’s forehead with several gestures. “Have you grown taller?” she asked. Since becoming a Realm Walker, his body had undergone a secondary growth phase—indeed, he had grown an additional four to five centimeters. Zhang Yuanqing didn’t want to dwell on this point, so he tilted back down and joked, “You’ve grown too.” Jiang Yubi was furious, waving her hands and giving him a sharp cut on the back of his neck. “Brave! You dare tease your own aunt? What else could you possibly do that’s beyond the bounds of a mere young creature?” They played around for some time until the elevator reached the first floor and opened its doors. Immediately, Jiang Yubi regained her reserved, graceful demeanor, and with polite gestures from several neighbors outside the building, she gently held Zhang Yuanqing’s arm as they stepped out of the carriage. After stepping out of the building, Zhang Yuanqing entered his aunt’s car and headed for Songhai University. Following the resolution of the Ci Yue An case, he resumed his identity as a university student. During this period, he didn’t have to work—his classes were non-negotiable. He couldn’t just stay at home idle, and Grandmother had been the first one to object. The white car stopped at the entrance of Songhai University. Zhang Yuanqing and his aunt waved goodbye. Watching his aunt’s car merge into the traffic flow, he took off his backpack and turned toward the university building. Suddenly, a figure near the gate caught his attention. A young man in sportswear had an elegant facial structure, with a sports headband tied around his forehead and a warm smile—typical of a sunlit, energetic type of handsome man. Girls passing by frequently glanced at him. Yet he paid no attention, carefully sweeping the dust off the entrance with a broom. Mahayana King of the Eyes… Zhang Yuanqing felt his heart skip a beat, then surge into rapid, strong beats. ……