Entering the village

As the bus passed several stops, more and more people gradually filled the vehicle. Most of the passengers at this hour were hurrying to the two big markets, so the mingled scent of livestock in the air was far from pleasant. Whenever the road became rough and uneven, the chickens, ducks, and geese inside would erupt in a cacophony, making the bus extraordinarily noisy.

Yet Ji Ningzhao seemed unfazed. Though she was born into privilege, she was, strangely enough, someone who could adapt well to any environment.

"That's right, I also hold a share in this company, so I'm a shareholder. You're not welcome here—get lost, wherever you came from," Qin Tian said bluntly.

Lin Xuan, who had just defeated the number one figure in the Sea of Stars, showed no trace of triumph on his face. The Sword of Myriad Paths in his hand slowly faded away.

Suddenly, Han Mengxin threw aside her treasured sword, squatted down, and burst into tears.

Xiao Yi could only react the moment they appeared, either dodging or counterattacking.

But then he shook his head, dismissing the thought. This penniless guy, dressed so shabbily and reeking of rusticity, was clearly a country bumpkin—not at all like a rich heir. Perhaps he was just pretending to be calm now, but would soon find an excuse to slip away quietly.

"We can't take the risk. If we're discovered, the other hostages are doomed," Zhang Fan whispered, his gaze settling on Ye Xuan. Leaning in, he murmured something in her ear.

"I promised to look at your illness. Why would I run? Silly girl," Qin Tian said with a wry smile, shaking his head.

After another period of rest—just as before—Yu Huang prepared to resume his work. Though his body was full of spiritual energy and divine intent, his strength was greatly depleted at this point. Without proper rest, he knew there would be grave consequences.

At the same time, Hao Bai came to a realization: everyone could enter this place. After all, it existed to suppress the monsters, and those who came might even lend a hand.

By now, Lu Li had exhausted nearly all his magic, though his blood energy remained abundant. The crows that had been trapped in Dimilia's illusion never awoke, as if dead, but soon, even more arrived in overwhelming numbers.

"Madam, let's go up to the teahouse—you can see from there!" Wang Yi, who had caught up, pointed to the teahouse behind them.

The terrace of the Luoying Teaching Building was an open botanical garden, complete with a simulated ecosystem. There was an artificial pond with all kinds of fish, and benches were scattered throughout the garden.

Fortunately, this time during the birthday tribute assessment, Feng’er had performed surprisingly well. Because of this, the old master felt reassured that his child was, after all, quite capable.

Fang Haoli found Ying Rou truly laughable. Was she really that outstanding? Compared to Mengyao, how could she possibly be considered exceptional?

"Master, what should we do now?" Ba Xia couldn't help but nervously send a message to Mu Han.

"Congratulations, Young Master Su. From now on, we’re family," Sato Ryuichi said ingratiatingly, aware that Su Qiu’s future in the Sakura Chamber of Commerce would far surpass his own.

No matter where he went, he knew there would be wolves, tigers, or perhaps leopards lurking about. After all, every animal had its territory.

Su Muge’s gaze landed on the Heavenly Pearl. Her eyes narrowed slightly as a thin layer of mist gradually coated its surface. Before long, the mist thickened, obscuring everything before her.

"I’ve already sent him ahead to welcome the bride," Zhou Botong replied after searching the courtyard alongside Ma Yu and failing to spot Qiu. With that, he walked directly toward the room where Qiu lived.

Lying there, Feng Yunran suddenly sat upright. A halo circled above her head; her face was breathtaking, her hair cascading down like silk. An overwhelming pressure swept out in all directions, making even the air seem to freeze.