The Real Daughter Gets Rich Writing Paranormal Stories Chapter 52

Qi Quan's move truly shocked everyone present.

Immediately after, everyone was stunned by Fu Jiuchong's actions.

Who would have thought the head of the Fu family was like this!

Yan Fengjun glanced at him with a smile, also took out his phone, and leisurely threw a "thunder" (a type of tip/virtual gift) at "The Diary of a Wealthy Family".

Having been saved, one must show some gratitude.

The system was very satisfied: [These two have some sense!]

Seeing this, the others also wanted to follow suit, but unfortunately, none of them had downloaded the app and had no idea how to do it.

Master Yin laughed to ease the awkwardness, saying, "It's almost noon. Why don't you, Senior Qi, and the distinguished guests from the Investigation Department stay for a simple meal?"

He would instruct his disciples to pay the reward later!

The other sect leaders and family heads thought the same, planning to repay this debt of gratitude during the meal.

Master Wan of the Xuanqing Sect pointed at the pool of flesh and blood and asked, "How should this be handled?"

We can't keep it wrapped in a spiritual energy shield forever, right?

Everyone instinctively looked towards Qi Quan. The disciples below the stage also gazed at her eagerly, waiting for her answer.

Yan Geng could no longer contain his admiration, whispering excitedly into Yan Huai's ear.

"So cool! Senior Qi is just too cool!"

"Brother Huai! I'm going to be her fan! I have to be her fan!"

Yan Huai, having fought fiercely, was physically tired but in excellent spirits.

He looked up at that viewing platform, his gaze gradually firming.

"Mm."

Yan Geng suddenly froze, looking at him suspiciously: "Mm?"

Yan Huai said seriously, "I support it. Be her fan."

"......"

The disciples from other sects were no less enthusiastic than Yan Geng.

The moment Lu Jiang self-destructed, although they were far away, they all keenly sensed that immense energy.

With their cultivation level, encountering it would have meant certain death.

But!

Senior Qi merely waved her hand and completely controlled the situation.

Ahhhhh! Goddess!

The young people, full of passion, opened "Scream Literature City" and frantically threw "thunders". Their usernames were uniformly cheesy, like "Goddess Bai Shui I Love You", "Goddess I want to have your babies", "Goddess, for saving my life, I offer myself to you", and so on.

The readers of "The Diary of a Wealthy Family" were confused.

[If you see me, tell me to go prepare lessons: The author said she was going to a martial arts tournament today. Could she have saved people?]

[Can still grind for another hundred years: Ahhhhhh! What exactly happened? I really want to know!]

[Staying up late makes you bald: It's such a pity not to have witnessed the goddess's heroic bearing in person!]

[Dying from laughter: ???]

Soaring Sky Lu Ma: Ahhhhh! I also really want to know what happened! It's all because I'm too weak!

On the viewing platform, Qi Quan moved her fingers.

The spiritual energy shield slowly compressed, gradually squeezing the self-destruction energy into a basketball-sized sphere.

"Master Yin, where in your sect is suitable for a controlled explosion?" she asked.

Master Yin: "..."

He asked, "We dare not trouble you further, Senior Qi. Can someone else go to throw it?"

Qi Quan nodded.

Master Yin immediately summoned his chief disciple, Liu Qiang.

Liu Qiang looked very young and elegant. After coming up, he paid his respects very politely. The corner of his eye glanced at Qi Quan, excitement overflowing.

Master Yin: "..."

A perfectly good disciple has become someone else's fan!

"Master, what are your instructions?"

Master Yin said, "Take this to the back mountain."

"Yes."

He respectfully picked up the sphere and was about to turn and leave.

"It can only be maintained for five minutes," Qi Quan reminded.

Liu Qiang smiled... "Thank you for the reminder, Senior. I'll remember."

He attached a Swift Movement Talisman and swiftly disappeared from everyone's sight, rushing to a deserted place in the back mountain and throwing the sphere into the bottom of a deep pool.

Five minutes later.

"Boom—"

A loud explosion came from the back mountain, causing the restaurant where the Guiyuan Sect entertained distinguished guests to shake several times.

Everyone: "..."

That power... the lingering fear was real!

The restaurant was divided into an inner dining hall and an outer dining hall. The inner hall was where the big shots ate, and the outer hall was for ordinary disciples.

The Guiyuan Sect was the number one major sect, with strict sect rules. Usually, everyone was reserved and silent during meals, but today they were discussing excitedly in low voices. With the addition of disciples from other sects, the discussions became even more heated.

The moment the loud noise came from the back mountain, everyone fell silent. The dining hall became so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

"Clap, clap, clap." Suddenly, a round of applause sounded.

It was as if a switch had been flipped. Everyone started applauding, the sound like thunder, instantly reaching the inner dining hall.

The big shots in the inner dining hall: "..."

System: [Big shot, I think they're all still feeling the aftereffects of fear.]

Qi Quan: [It's only human.]

Everyone fears death, including her.

The Guiyuan Sect's dishes leaned towards the light side, but the taste was quite good. Qi Quan ate unhurriedly, completely indifferent to the surrounding gazes.

The others had little appetite for food.

Lu Jiang self-destructed and died in front of everyone, his body exploding into a pool of flesh and blood, his soul also scattered to ashes. This matter ended here, but everyone knew it was actually just a beginning.

Master Yin asked with a smile, "I wonder if the dishes suit Senior Qi's taste?"

Qi Quan obliged: "Not bad."

"That's good." He turned to ask Li Guoyan, "And Director Li?"

Li Guoyan praised, "Excellent."

Ling Sheng sat beside Qi Quan. Due to the illusion technique concealing him, he had little presence, and the big shots didn't specifically ask him either.

Master Wan sighed and couldn't help asking, "May I ask, Director Li, today you were invited here. Besides dealing with Lu Jiang, you must have other matters to discuss, right?"

The official's stance was clear. Lu Jiang wasn't important enough for them to make a special trip.

Those present were all shrewd people.

Li Guoyan thus didn't beat around the bush and directly delivered a heavy statement.

"Our department believes that the Celestial Master Association has long existed in name only."

All the big shots: !!!

Yu Lanzhi was the most impulsive and asked, "What does Director Li mean by that? Does the official intend to disband the Celestial Master Association?"

The atmosphere grew tense.

System: [The Celestial Master Association holds positions without doing their duties. They should have been disbanded long ago!]

Li Guoyan said seriously, "The cases recently investigated by our department are all related to Celestial Masters causing trouble. The official side is also in a difficult position. Originally, Celestial Masters were supervised by the Celestial Master Association. As long as they didn't harm the public, we turned a blind eye. But the Celestial Master Association has clearly lost its supervisory function. The official analysis concludes that the association no longer has a reason to continue existing."

"There are still many diligent Celestial Masters within the association who diligently capture ghosts and exorcise evil, never harming anyone," Master Wan said.

Master Yin also said, "Once the association is dissolved, our sect disciples are fine, but wouldn't those independent cultivators be even less supervised?"

"What do the rest of you think?" Li Guoyan asked.

The Yan Family Head said with a smile, "Everything has its pros and cons."

Fu Jiuchong remained expressionless.

Master Zhou had the least presence and didn't know what to say, chiming in, "Supervision is indeed necessary, but there's no need to disband the association. At least let those independent cultivators have a home."

"Well said." Li Guoyan smiled. "Master Zhou's words hit the key point. As long as supervision is in place and Celestial Masters are prevented from committing evil, there is indeed no need to disband the association."

The official side's steps couldn't be too big at once. Taking too big a step might cause a backlash from the mystical community, which would be counterproductive.

Previously, cracking down on the evil celestial masters was merely a warning bell.

The current negotiation is also to ensure the healthier development of the Mystic Arts Sect.

The Mystic Arts Sect is not the official target of the crackdown.

Master Yin: "What does Director Li mean?"

Li Guoyan: "The official body is deeply disappointed with the Celestial Masters Association's self-regulation, so it has decided to establish supervisory teams within the local Celestial Masters Associations to oversee their operations."

Everyone: "..."

Wasn't this like hanging a sword of Damocles over their heads?

Calling it a supervisory team was essentially taking over the Celestial Masters Association.

In the long run, wouldn't the Celestial Masters Association truly become another branch of the Investigation Department?

The atmosphere at the dining table was extremely heavy.

No one spoke first.

The sound of a spoon pressing against a bowl abruptly rang out.

Everyone looked up.

Qi Quan set down her spoon, used a warm small towel to wipe the corners of her mouth, and under everyone's gaze, calmly placed it down. She looked at Li Guoyan and asked:

"When are we going back?"

Li Guoyan smiled, "I'll have someone take you back right now."

Qi Quan nodded.

"Senior Qi Quan, as a celestial master beyond the seventh rank, what do you think should be done?" the Yan Family Head suddenly inquired.

Qi Quan said mildly, "Do your duty well. It's not difficult."

Yan Fengjun was momentarily stunned, then chuckled wryly.

He raised his cup, "I toast to you."

After this battle, the regression of the Mystic Arts Sect was an established fact. Even if Master Yin and the others were unwilling, they had no choice but to agree to the official decision.

The official body did not directly disband the Celestial Masters Association, giving them a chance to catch their breath and avoid a desperate, risky counterattack.

They still harbored a sliver of hope.

The Celestial Masters Association was filled with their own factions, deeply entrenched and intertwined. Even if the official body wanted to further control the association by establishing supervisory teams, they would have to see if they could actually manage it.

Those present were all top leaders of the Mystic Arts Sect; they could set the rules for the sect just by holding a meeting. They could completely decide the future development of the Mystic Arts Sect without needing to consult others.

After exchanging glances, they finally decided to retreat a step.

They couldn't win a fight anyway, so this was the only way.

The official body achieved its goal, and the Mystic Arts Sect didn't suffer too great a loss. For a time, both hosts and guests were content.

Outside the mountain gate, as Qi Quan was about to get into the car with Ling Sheng, someone suddenly called out to her.

It was a young, beautiful woman. Judging by her features, she resembled Fu Jiuchong quite a bit; she was likely a member of the Fu family.

"Senior Qi Quan." Fu Luanfei's gaze was direct and fervent. "May I ask you a question?"

Qi Quan's brow moved slightly. This girl actually had some kind of karmic connection with her.

How could that be?

She carefully searched her memories and finally grasped a possibility.

The person who had sent her that private message on Weibo to warn her that night was probably this girl.

Only someone from within the Mystic Arts Sect who could participate in certain important meetings would be able to warn her about the sect's movements. This girl was likely a direct descendant or core disciple of the Fu family who, upon learning the news, went to Weibo to warn her.

Yet she had concealed her identity, acting with extreme caution.

Qi Quan nodded and said, "Please go ahead."

"May I ask, are you an eighth-rank celestial master?" Her voice was very low, but her eyes shone with a burning light, as if awaiting a definitive answer.

Qi Quan replied evenly, "What is the matter?"

Fu Luanfei's handsome, spirited features grew even more anxious. She took a deep breath, her fist clenching slightly, and said, "If you are, I would like to ask for your help."

"Luanfei." Fu Jiuchong stood not far away, his expression impassive. "It's time to go home."

He glanced at Qi Quan and gave a slight nod.

Fu Luanfei's face showed reluctance, but she had no choice but to obey her father and follow him into the car.

The system was very curious: [Big shot, what does she want your help with? The Fu family is, after all, the second-largest great family. They shouldn't lack resources or talent.]

Qi Quan: [I don't know.]

She sat in the car and looked at Ling Sheng beside her.

Through the illusion technique, at first glance, he didn't look much like the Fu father and daughter. But upon closer inspection, one could detect a slight resemblance in their bearing.

Qi Quan felt a headache coming on. How could she uncover Ling Sheng's origins while also ensuring he remained firmly a part of the Lakeside Villa?

"Master," Li Guoyan said while driving, "This mission has been successfully completed, and you deserve the highest credit. The bonus will be issued promptly upon our return."

Qi Quan: "Thank you for your trouble."

Li Guoyan glanced at her in the rearview mirror and suggested with a smile, "You rarely come to Longjing City. Now that all tasks are finished, why not take a tour of the various scenic spots in Longjing? The department has a few free admission passes. I'll have someone send them to you after we return."

Qi Quan didn't refuse.

Whether she toured or not didn't matter to her, but knowing that Ling Sheng was likely from the Longjing Fu family, and if he had been imprisoned since childhood, he would have had no chance to appreciate the sights of Longjing City.

With free passes, there was no need to show ID to buy tickets, which was indeed more convenient for Ling Sheng, who had no official identity.

"Master, regarding the Bloody Pills, the department hasn't found any related leads yet," Li Guoyan said.

Qi Quan nodded: "The Mystic Arts forces in Longjing City are densely packed; evil cultivators would inevitably be cautious. It might be better to investigate in more remote areas like Longjiang, Longtan, or Longxi."

"You're right, Master. I was thinking the same," Li Guoyan agreed.

Inside the Fu family car.

Fu Luanfei suppressed her excitement and asked, "Dad, is she eighth rank?"

Before Fu Jiuchong could answer, she continued, "To instantly suppress a seventh-rank celestial master's self-detonation, she must be beyond seventh rank!"

Fu Jiuchong nodded: "She certainly is."

Although he hadn't directly felt the pressure, he had sensed the fluctuation of spiritual power. Such formidable spiritual power, he had only experienced from the eighth-rank elders within his family.

No, to be precise, the eighth-rank elders were weaker compared to her.

Otherwise, it would be hard to explain why Master Yin and the others instantly changed their attitude.

If she were merely eighth rank, the various sects and families wouldn't fear her. But if she were beyond eighth rank, then they would have to be extremely careful.

Yet no one dared to guess, let alone ask.

A celestial master beyond eighth rank at twenty-two years old—could such a thing truly exist?

For now, they didn't want to shatter their worldview.

Fu Luanfei didn't overthink it. She said urgently, "She is a righteous but not rigid celestial master. Do you think if we asked for her help, she might agree?"

"I don't know," Fu Jiuchong also had no certainty.

From their brief interaction, it was clear this super eighth-rank expert was a celestial master with principles and a bottom line. Whether she would agree to such a request was hard to judge.

The urgency in Fu Luanfei's heart also subsided.

She said bitterly, "We've waited so many years. This might be our only hope now. If we don't try, I really can't accept it."

Fu Jiuchong closed his eyes.

"She keeps ghost attendants, doesn't she?" Fu Luanfei said. "That shows she's not the type of celestial master who rigidly follows the rules. Maybe... maybe she'll agree."

Fu Jiuchong: "Let's think about it more."

Father and daughter returned home. Without a word, they both turned towards the most deeply hidden small courtyard in the Fu family estate.

A high-level array was set up outside the courtyard to prevent outsiders or family disciples from intruding.

From outside the array, it appeared to be nothing more than a desolate, dilapidated little yard. But once one stepped into the array, they would discover the courtyard was exquisite, beautiful, and filled with abundant spiritual energy.

In the open space of the small courtyard, a rocking chair swayed rhythmically.

On the rocking chair, a woman with lovely features had her eyes closed. Her thick, dark hair was loosely draped over the headrest of the chair, cascading down from the very top. Under the sunlight, it shimmered with a satin-like luster.

The woman was covered with a thin blanket, her hands folded over her abdomen. They were so pale they seemed to glow, yet also withered and thin, like old tree branches that had lost all their moisture.

Fu Luanfei half-knelt beside the rocking chair and called out with a smile, "Aunt."

The woman slowly opened her eyes, her gaze drifting towards Fu Luanfei, blank and empty like a sheet of paper stripped of all color.

Even so, a trace of her former grace and charm was still faintly discernible between her brows.

Su Family Villa.

Qi Quan received the complimentary tickets sent by Li Guoyan's people. There were four in total, perfect to share with Su Nuanuan and Shen Hui. It was very thoughtful.

"Aquan-jie, I love you!" Su Nuanuan made to rush forward and hug her again, but was stopped by a single finger from Qi Quan pressed against her forehead.

She paused for a moment, then put on an act of being wronged. "Aquan-jie, don't you like me anymore?"

Qi Quan withdrew her finger and said, "I'm going upstairs."

She still hadn't gotten used to such intimate contact.

Su Nuanuan blinked, watching Qi Quan's retreating back which seemed almost like a hasty escape, and suddenly laughed.

Yan Family.

After the intense battle, Yan Huai felt his cultivation realm had loosened somewhat, though it wasn't yet time for a breakthrough.

He sat ramrod straight across from Yan Fengjun, his expression stern and cold, yet with a faint thread of excitement hidden within.

Yan Fengjun studied him for a moment and said, "Ah Huai, if I asked you to join the Investigation Department, would you be willing?"

"No." Yan Huai answered without the slightest hesitation.

Surprise flashed in Yan Fengjun's eyes, but he quickly concealed it. "Why not?"

"You said I am the heir of the Yan family. I don't need to think about anything else. I just need to focus on cultivation, to ensure the family's legacy continues." Yan Huai recited this methodically.

Yan Fengjun: "..."

He eyed Yan Huai suspiciously.

This kid... was he truly clueless, or just pretending?

Or had they all misjudged him all these years?

He said, "The current situation is different from before. The Investigation Department's influence is growing, and they plan to establish a supervision team within the Heavenly Master Association. In the long run, the Association will be constrained by them."

"Oh."

Yan Fengjun: "You are a quasi-Seventh Grade Heavenly Master. I believe the Investigation Department won't refuse your application."

"I only wish to cultivate in peace. The Investigation Department has to handle all sorts of cases. It would delay my cultivation. Send someone else." Yan Huai's expression remained cold and indifferent, showing not a flicker of wavering.

Yan Fengjun: "..."

He used to think raising a block of wood was frustrating. Now he discovered this block of wood might actually be pretending, which was even more frustrating.

He said irritably, "Are you doing this on purpose?"

Yan Huai appropriately showed a look of surprise.

Yan Fengjun glared at him. "Stop pretending with me. Do you really think I can't see through your little schemes?"

His refusal to join the Investigation Department definitely had another purpose.

"As you say." Yan Huai replied solemnly.

"..."

Yan Fengjun: "Get out!"

Yan Huai immediately stood up and returned to his room.

Not long after, Yan Geng slipped in.

"Brother Huai, I heard the authorities are setting up a supervision team in the Heavenly Master Association. Is it true?"

"True."

"Whoa." Yan Geng exclaimed in surprise. "Master Yin and the Family Head and the others... they all agreed?"

Yan Huai didn't answer.

Yan Geng figured it out on his own.

...

"Everyone's saying now that Senior Qi is a Super Eighth Grade Heavenly Master, someone even more formidable than the Eighth Grade masters from the various sects and families. Is that why Master Yin and the Family Head agreed to this?"

"Mhm."

"Senior Qi is truly amazing!" Yan Geng was young and spent all his time following Yan Huai around. His personality was still quite naive, full of a young person's passion and fervor.

He looked at Yan Huai enviously. "Brother Huai, what was it like, fighting that fierce ghost?"

Yan Huai: "..."

"Brother Huai, I want to fight a fierce ghost too. I saw a lot of people in the group chat discussing it. They think Senior Qi is the coolest, and the people in the Investigation Department are so lucky to have such a big shot using fierce ghosts to train them."

Yan Huai: "..."

"Some people are even saying they want to join the Investigation Department as investigators."

"..."

"Do you think... we could go?"

Yan Huai lifted his eyelids to glance at him.

"Alright, I'll stop talking. You focus on your cultivation."

After the "Banquet at Hongmen," the authorities revealed a more assertive stance than before.

Heavenly Master Associations across the country received notifications that supervision teams would soon be stationed within them, exercising supervisory authority over the Associations.

The higher-ups of the Heavenly Master Associations: ???

Had they heard wrong?

Weren't the authorities afraid of upsetting the powerful masters of the Mystic Arts world by doing this?

Someone asked just that, and then got thoroughly schooled.

[Is the Association really setting up a supervision team?]

[How did the world change overnight?]

[So the big shots have no reaction at all? In the future, should we independent cultivators listen to the Association or the supervision team?]

[Isn't it obvious? Right now, the authorities have gained the upper hand over the Association. Naturally, listen to the authorities. Unless you want to end up like Wei Huangyang and Lu Jiang?]

[So why did things suddenly change like this?]

[I suggest you read the latest chapter of "Diary of a Wealthy Family." They were probably beaten into submission by the White Water big shot.]

[Are you serious?]

[I just want to know what use this supervision team has.]

[Ah, I feel like I'm witnessing history!]

The authorities worked with high efficiency.

The day after "negotiating" with the Mystic Arts leaders, they dispatched supervisory personnel to the Dragon Capital City Heavenly Master Association.

The supervisory personnel were all rigorously trained and selected. They were experienced, keenly insightful, acted decisively, and were all from other regions with no local connections, giving the Association higher-ups no opportunity to obstruct their work.

A "supervision fever" swept through all regions.

These matters did not affect Qi Quan.

However, after her trip to the Guiyuan Sect, she suddenly gained a large number of enthusiastic fans. Her Weibo follower count had reached several hundred thousand, and the comments section of "Diary of a Wealthy Family" was filled with various "thunder" comments (expressing awe/support). Mixed in were also comments like "Goddess, I want to marry you."

The system was too embarrassed to read them out to her.

Qi Quan spent three days touring the scenic spots of Dragon Capital City with Ling Sheng.

Both carried spiritual energy within them and had abundant stamina. They completely lacked the symptom of other tourists collapsing after visiting one spot, so their efficiency was particularly high.

In her previous life, Qi Quan was busy with sect affairs and never had the chance to travel and play freely. In this life, however, she was making up for it thoroughly.

First the resort, now the major scenic areas.

Her mindset seemed to have changed because of this as well.

The system noticed it too and chuckled secretly. [Big shot, you used to dislike going out the most.]

Qi Quan smiled. [Going out before meant dealing with matters. It was mentally draining and exhausting... better to just stay home and cultivate.]

[So that's why you resisted going out before?]

[Perhaps.]

[Then in this life, you can enjoy yourself more. After all, you can live a long time now, with both money and leisure.]

Qi Quan stood atop the high city wall, looking down at the vast land below, a smile curling at the corner of her lips.

[Coming out to play occasionally is really quite nice.]

Ling Sheng saw her smile, and a hint of a smile also appeared in his eyes.

It happened that Qi Quan turned to look at him and caught that expression, making her mood even more cheerful.

She said: [It seems Ling Sheng really enjoys going out to play. He really was kept shut in for too long before.]

System: [...Perhaps.]

After enjoying the final scenic spot, the two returned to the villa.

A car was parked at the villa entrance.

The system exclaimed in surprise: [It's the Fu family's car!]

It had been seen last time at the Guiyuan Sect gate.

As Qi Quan entered the villa with Ling Sheng, they immediately heard the sound of two girls chatting in the living room.

"Wow! This one is really so cool! Amazing!" Su Nuanuan's voice rang out with delighted praise.

"These were all secretly taken by others. I saw them in a group chat and downloaded them," came the voice of Fu Luanfei from inside. "Should I send them to you?"

"Yes, please!" Su Nuanuan eagerly agreed. "Sister Quan is just too awesome!"

Qi Quan: "..."

The system was also shocked: [How do those two know each other?]

Just then, Qi Quan stepped into the living room.

Both girls looked up simultaneously, their eyes shining with fervent admiration and joy.

Su Nuanuan immediately introduced, "Sister Quan, this is my schoolmate, Fu Luanfei. We met in a club!"

Fu Luanfei stood up politely and said, "Senior Qi Quan, I apologize for the presumptuous visit. I hope I'm not disturbing you."

"Mm. What were you looking at?"

Qi Quan walked over and sat down on the sofa.

"Photos of you from that day at the Martial Arts Assembly!" Su Nuanuan handed over her phone. "They're taken so well!"

Qi Quan: "..."

She wasn't a celebrity. Why were people taking her picture?

And also—

She looked at Fu Luanfei and asked, "Was photography allowed?"

Logically, internal competitions within the Guiyuan Sect shouldn't permit photography or recording, especially since the situation that day was more complex than a standard internal match.

Fu Luanfei replied respectfully, "As long as it doesn't involve leaking secrets, photography and internal sharing are allowed."

She glanced at Su Nuanuan. "Nuanuan isn't an outsider."

Su Nuanuan truly wasn't an outsider. Her own brother served as Qi Quan's ghost attendant, making her practically family.

Hearing this, Qi Quan didn't press further.

She had no particular feelings about having her picture taken.

An extremely delicate and refreshing aroma of tea wafted over, making Fu Luanfei instinctively look towards its source.

A tall, slender, and clean-cut young man set down a tea tray and prepared a cup of tea for each of the three.

Fu Luanfei thought: This assistant is too considerate and thorough.

"Ah, I forgot to offer you tea," Su Nuanuan said with a look of guilt.

Fu Luanfei shook her head with a smile and got to the main point.

"The day after tomorrow is my eighteenth birthday. My family plans to hold a birthday banquet for me, and I would like to invite all of you to attend."

She took four invitations from her bag; everyone in the villa was listed on them.

One, bearing Qi Quan's name, was solemnly presented to her.

Qi Quan accepted it without hesitation.

She could tell Fu Luanfei had a request.

She had already intended to make contact with the Fu family to investigate the events surrounding Ling Sheng from years ago. This invitation arrived at the perfect time.

...

Seeing her accept, Fu Luanfei visibly relaxed.

She didn't stay much longer, excusing herself on account of other matters.

System: [Big shot, are you really going to attend her birthday banquet?]

Qi Quan: [It's hard to refuse a sincere invitation.]

[...]

It didn't believe that, saying: [You're doing it for Ling Sheng, aren't you?]

Qi Quan: [Also to settle a karmic debt.]

[What karmic debt?]

[That reminder via private message on Weibo that day was probably sent by her.]

The system didn't understand: [Since she knows Su Nuanuan, she must also know Su Nuanuan lives with you. Why didn't she use Su Nuanuan to relay the warning?]

Where Qi Quan lived was no secret.

The top masters of the Mystic Arts world, wanting to recruit her, would have thoroughly investigated her background. Her connection to the Su family would be well-known to them.

Everyone knew Su Nuanuan was by her side.

If Fu Luanfei had excessive contact with Su Nuanuan before the "Banquet at Hong Gate," it would certainly draw the attention of the Mystic Arts circles. The consequences would be unpredictable.

Qi Quan: [She didn't want to expose herself.]

System: [True.]

Somewhere in the suburbs of the capital, at a certain estate.

A steward reverently presented a bowl of medicinal decoction. The liquid was pitch black and emitted a foul odor.

A man sat in a chair, a carving knife in his hand, jade dust falling in a fine shower.

"Family Head, your medicine."

The man paused. Smelling the decoction that nearly made him retch, he suddenly drove the carving knife into the jade. A hint of madness flickered in his eyes as he swept his hand out, knocking over the medicine bowl.

The liquid spilled onto the floor, its odor evaporating into the air, becoming even more unbearable.

"Ding Ji is dead, Yan Wu is dead, many of our operations have been destroyed by the Investigation Department," he chuckled darkly. "Truly a person of great fortune. Once given a chance to turn things around, no one can stand in her way."

"Family Head..."

The man's expression turned cold and fierce: "What is it!"

"The day after tomorrow is the birthday banquet for the Fu family's young miss. Will you be attending?"

The man was momentarily taken aback.

"The Fu family's young miss?" His eyes held a complex, inexplicable emotion, tinged with a trace of reminiscence. He murmured, "Just a little girl. What's the point in going?"

He paused. "Prepare a congratulatory gift."

"Yes."

Time flew, and soon it was the day of the Fu family young miss's birthday banquet.

The Fu residence was filled with a gathering of distinguished guests, all major figures from Longjing City. Other sects and families of similar stature sent their most core disciples to offer congratulations.

Liu Qiang, representing the Guiyuan Sect, arrived neither early nor late and was soon surrounded by a group of young people.

"Brother Liu, tell us again about how the Level Seven elder self-destructed but was suppressed by Senior Qi Quan!"

As the person who had personally received the "bomb," Liu Qiang had garnered immense attention these past few days, both within and outside the sect, in both the real world and online.

He was the disciple closest to Senior Qi Quan that day; the only disciple who had spoken with Senior Qi Quan that day; the one personally entrusted by Senior Qi Quan with the task of catching the thrown "bomb."

He had become the object of everyone's envy.

Liu Qiang, after all, was the sect's chief disciple. Though inwardly thrilled, he managed to maintain his composure on the surface.

He smiled with practiced grace. "Today is Miss Fu's birthday banquet. We can talk about that another time when there's a chance."

As soon as his words fell, the entire hall fell silent.

He was puzzled. Had he said something wrong?

Liu Qiang instinctively followed the crowd's gaze.

Outside the banquet hall, a tall, slender figure appeared in their line of sight...

She wore a form-fitting black evening gown. The dress was beautifully tailored, perfectly contouring her figure and outlining an excellent physique. The minimalist black gown outshone any ornate attire.

A jade hairpin held up her long hair, with a few delicate strands loose at her temples, framing exceptionally striking features. Her fair skin glowed with a jade-like luster.

This was...

Someone in the crowd whispered, "Senior Qi Quan!"

Only then did Liu Qiang realize—it was Senior Qi Quan!

That day at the Stargazing Platform, he hadn't dared to look too closely. Moreover, his attention had been completely captivated by her formidable methods throughout, so he hadn't really noticed her appearance.

Probably many of the disciples present were the same.

In their eyes, she was an exalted senior, far beyond their reach. No one would care about her outward appearance because it simply wasn't necessary.

But who could have imagined that the senior, having traded casual clothes for an evening gown and with her hair up, would be so stunning!

She was like a radiant presence, drawing the gaze of everyone present.

In truth, Qi Quan had dressed quite modestly.

The gown was one she had tailored herself in her spare time. The fabric was of high quality, but the style was exceptionally simple.

She didn't take anyone's arm, walking into the banquet hall on her own.

Ling Sheng, dressed in a well-fitted suit, followed closely beside her, holding her bag.

Such a combination was peculiar, yet no one found it odd.

Su Nuanuan slowed her pace by a step, walking alongside Shen Hui.

Upon learning of Qi Quan's arrival, Fu Luanfei personally came to greet her.

She possessed a striking, handsome beauty, dressed in a women's suit with her hair styled in a very efficient manner, making her an exceptionally eye-catching presence in the entire banquet hall.

The Fu family had no unattractive people.

"Senior Qi, Nuanuan, the banquet hasn't started yet. Please go upstairs to rest first."

She guided the four of them upstairs.

In the lounge, tea had long been prepared.

Fu Luanfei took Su Nuanuan's hand. "Nuanuan, I have a few accessories and can't decide which to choose. Could you help me with your opinion?"

"Of course!" Su Nuanuan, being perceptive, left with her.

Shen Hui also said, "Senior, I'll step out and take a look."

Only Qi Quan and Ling Sheng remained in the lounge.

Qi Quan leaned back on the sofa, her demeanor calm and peaceful. She then turned to look at Ling Sheng and asked, "How do you feel?"

Ling Sheng was momentarily stunned, then lowered his head to type: [The clothes are uncomfortable to wear.]

Qi Quan: "..."

Having not worn clothes for over a decade, and after moving to the Lakeside Villa only wearing loose garments, it was indeed uncomfortable to be constrained by a suit.

But that wasn't what she was asking.

Still, it wasn't important.

She smiled and said, "You won't have to wear them again in the future."

Ling Sheng curved his lips into a smile and nodded seriously.

A knock sounded at the door.

Qi Quan: "Come in."

A man opened the door and walked in with steady steps.

"Senior Qi, I, Fu, was occupied with matters earlier and couldn't welcome you personally. My apologies for the discourtesy."

Qi Quan had no patience for beating around the bush. "Mr. Fu, you may speak directly."

Fu Jiuchong sat on the opposite sofa, casually pressed a button. The light of an array suddenly flashed, disappearing a few seconds later.

It was an isolation array.

It could block any form of external prying, including spiritual sense.

Qi Quan's expression remained unchanged.

Fu Jiuchong's eyes were full of admiration. In a low voice, he said, "The reason for inviting Senior Qi today is to ask for your assistance."

"And if I hadn't come?"

Fu Jiuchong said, "To be honest, your coming is what surprised me more."

...

Their Fu family had no prior relationship with Qi Quan. An expert of Qi Quan's level had no need to attend a young girl's coming-of-age ceremony.

He was very curious about Qi Quan's reason for coming.

Qi Quan did not hide it: "Miss Fu and I share a karmic connection."

Fu Jiuchong thought for a moment and understood it was because of the warning Fu Luanfei had given her.

His expression grew even more sincere. "A single warning doesn't amount to much."

Qi Quan knew he spoke the truth.

Before going to the Guiyuan Sect, almost everyone speculated she was at most a seventh-level cultivator.

Despite seventh-level Heavenly Masters being rare, in the eyes of major sects and great families, they weren't considered particularly significant.

Which sect leader or family head wasn't at least seventh-level?

Within their sects and families, there were several seventh and even eighth-level elders.

Facing a Qi Quan who was "only seventh-level," they felt no fear and saw no need to curry favor or build ties.

The previous "grand" recruitment efforts were merely a perfunctory formality to demonstrate the demeanor of the mystical community.

No one truly took it seriously.

Otherwise, the Guiyuan Sect wouldn't have sent an invitation to a banquet with ulterior motives so soon after Qi Quan's refusal.

Therefore, Fu Luanfei's earlier warning to her was genuinely well-intentioned.

Qi Quan acknowledged this kindness.

"A pure heart is rare," she praised.

Fu Jiuchong, however, said, "Rare, and also difficult to survive with."

Qi Quan sensed there was more to his words but did not respond.

"I heard Senior Qi keeps a ghost servant," Fu Jiuchong, not expecting her to be talkative, continued, "You don't consider keeping ghost servants to be a heretical art of the mystical path?"

Qi Quan: "If it causes no harm to heaven and reason, how can it be heretical?"

"Haha," he couldn't help but laugh, then asked seemingly casually, "I wonder if Senior Qi has heard of the Soul-Searching Art?"

Qi Quan: "..."

Not only had she heard of it, she had used it.

Fu Jiuchong said, "It's a forbidden art of the mystical path. Those whose souls have been searched become, at best, foolish, insane, or deranged; at worst, they lose their lives. The process is also extremely painful. Have you heard of it, Senior?"

"I have heard of it."

Fu Jiuchong suddenly glanced at Ling Sheng, implying something.

"He is under my protection," Qi Quan said. "Mr. Fu need not worry."

"Good."

He mustered his courage and said, "After being soul-searched, if one becomes foolish, they can only remain so. But there is an exception. If the person's soul, at the instant of the search, self-seals their spiritual consciousness—rather than having their spiritual platform destroyed by the perpetrator—they can still be saved."

Qi Quan understood.

He was seeking her help to treat an illness.

There indeed existed a forbidden art in the mystical path that could restore a person with such symptoms to normalcy, but the cost was significant.

There were three conditions.

Three eighth-level Heavenly Masters must perform the ritual simultaneously; an enormous supply of spiritual energy is required; and the soul of a blood relative must serve as a guide.

The first condition alone was enough to disqualify the vast majority.

Why was it a forbidden art?

Because performing this forbidden art was extremely dangerous.

The danger lay not with the eighth-level Heavenly Masters performing it, but with the blood relative who risked their life.

During the ritual, the living soul must leave the body, attach to the patient, and, aided by the art, delve deep into the patient's spiritual platform. There, it must find the self-sealed barrier, break it, then guide the sealed memories and soul to return, thus achieving the goal.

However, during the performance of this forbidden art, not a single mistake or omission could be allowed, and the supply of spiritual energy must be extremely abundant. Otherwise, if any deviation occurred, not only might the patient be beyond saving, but the living soul might also be unable to return.

Fu Jiuchong was asking for her help, likely because of the super eighth-level cultivation she had displayed.

Qi Quan asked, "...Are you sure you want to do this?"

Fu Jiuchong breathed a sigh of relief.

It seemed she wasn't averse to using the forbidden art.

"Yes, I have a reason that compels me to do this." His voice grew hoarse, his eyes slightly reddened. "I must know what exactly happened back then."

Qi Quan remained silent.

"Senior Qi, I know this is asking a great deal, but I still wish to try." He said solemnly, "After it concludes, regardless of the outcome, half of the Fu family's assets will be transferred to your name."

"Half your family's assets?"

Fu Jiuchong: "I must leave something for Luanfei."

Qi Quan: "..."

She had no interest in other people's family fortunes.

Fu Jiuchong realized his mistake. "I misunderstood your meaning. I do indeed intend to personally participate in the rescue."

If something happened to him, Fu Luanfei was still young and her cultivation insufficient. Even with the support of the elders, it would be difficult for her to command respect.

It was better to relinquish half. With fewer covetous eyes upon her, she could live more peacefully.

If he didn't meet with misfortune and the forbidden art succeeded, then Qi Quan would be a great benefactor to the Fu family. Offering half their assets would be only right and proper.

Qi Quan was curious: "Do you truly trust me?"

The Fu family already had two eighth-level Heavenly Masters. For so many years, they hadn't attempted the forbidden art, probably because Fu Luanfei was not yet an adult, and also because they were unwilling to trust an eighth-level master from outside.

Why place such trust in her?

Fu Jiuchong said, "I don't know why either. I just feel you are worthy of trust."

As he spoke, he unconsciously glanced at Ling Sheng.

In truth, he not only felt favorable towards Qi Quan, but also felt a natural affinity towards the assistant by her side.

He trusted his intuition.

Qi Quan: "..."

She asked, "Who is the patient?"

"My younger sister, Fu Jiuge."

As expected.

Qi Quan had stayed in Longjing precisely to resolve the karmic connection between Ling Sheng and the Fu family.

This was an opportunity, and she had no reason to refuse.

She thought for a moment and said, "I don't want half of the Fu family's fortune. Once the matter is settled, I have one condition."