Master, Please Stay!

The phone call, with its effeminate male voice, was like a viper's tongue. Although Lin Fan hung up decisively, the greed and threats embedded in its words cast a dark cloud over the rented room, dispelling the fleeting, illusory joy brought by the enormous wealth he had just acquired.

Lin Fan gripped his phone, his knuckles turning slightly white from the force, and looked at Tong Tian and Nüwa with a solemn expression.

"Again?" Tong Tian didn't even bother to turn his head, still staring at the computer screen, his tone laced with the impatience of being disturbed, as if to say, "More ants are buzzing." Yet, the palpable, albeit subtle, intensification of the sword intent around him indicated he wasn't entirely indifferent.

Nüwa gently placed down a piece of clay she had just begun to shape. Her compassionate and clear eyes seemed to pierce through the walls, gazing into the distance. She frowned slightly, "This probing intent is different from the previous official inquiry, and also different from that merchant seeking art. Their hearts... are utterly murky, consumed by greed, with traces of bloody malevolence entwined. They are not good people."

The spiritual senses of Sages, even suppressed by heaven and earth, were far superior to ordinary mortals in perceiving good and evil, fortune and disaster.

"They mentioned Goddess Nüwa's 'power of creation,' and... they seem to know the specific amount of Zhou Wenyuan's transaction," Lin Fan said gravely, his internal alarm bells ringing. The other party's information channels were so well-informed; their power likely far exceeded Zhou Wenyuan's, possibly even unafraid of official backing.

"A bunch of clowns, hardly worth mentioning," Tong Tian snorted coldly. "If they dare to extend their claws, we'll just chop them off."

His response was always so simple and direct, filled with the absolute confidence that comes from power.

Nüwa looked at Lin Fan and said gently, "Lin Fan, wealth moves hearts and can also invite disaster. This matter arose because of my creations, and it has indeed brought you trouble."

"Your Ladyship is too kind," Lin Fan quickly shook his head. "Since I chose this path, these troubles were within expectations. We just need to be more careful."

He took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down. Fear and anxiety wouldn't solve anything; only proactive measures would. The other party was in the dark, while they were in the light. All they could do for now was strengthen their defenses, improve themselves, and utilize the resources they had.

He carefully put away the priceless bank card and property documents. These were not just wealth; they might also become bargaining chips or... bait for dealing with future crises.

The following days were filled with a tense atmosphere in the rented room, like the calm before a storm.

Tong Tian appeared to still be engrossed in the internet, but the range and intensity of his spiritual senses' vigilance had clearly increased. His icy sword intent acted like an invisible radar, repeatedly scanning hundreds of meters around for any anomalies. He even began to consciously guide Lin Fan, encouraging him to try and communicate with the spatial Dao patterns within the cracked wooden token using his mind, which were slightly different from those of this world. Although Lin Fan couldn't even grasp the basics, the process itself was an excellent way to temper his mental strength.

Nüwa remained immersed in her creations, but her works began to undergo subtle changes. She no longer solely sculpted gentle and adorable creatures; occasionally, she would craft seemingly ancient ornaments and objects that exuded a sense of protection or warning. For example, a small clay shield engraved with mystical cloud patterns, or a pendant shaped like an eye, as if it could see through illusions. She placed these small objects casually in various corners of the room, their energies subtly connected with the "Breathing Soil" and other sculptures, adding another layer of ineffable, restrained protective power to the peaceful Dao field within the rented room.

Lin Fan cultivated even more desperately. Under the dual pressure of immense stress and Nüwa's Dao field, his Supreme Clarity Heart-Cleansing Mantra progressed rapidly. He could now enter a state of deep tranquility with relative stability, his spiritual power like repeatedly hammered iron, becoming purer and more condensed. His connection with the seed of sword intent also strengthened slightly. Although he still couldn't activate it, occasionally, when in a state of deep tranquility, he could vaguely "see" that tiny point of cold sharpness, like a glimmer capable of severing all things, floating within his sea of consciousness.

Meanwhile, Gong Gong continued to play his role as the "human weapon" at the "Li Wang" club, enjoying good food and drink daily, and exercising his body with great pleasure. Manager Wang protected him meticulously, blocking all external challenges and interviews, ensuring he remained the club's ultimate "nuclear weapon." This, to some extent, prevented more unnecessary trouble from directly finding Gong Gong.

However, the center of the storm seemed to be shifting towards Nüwa.

When Zhou Wenyuan visited again, his respectful demeanor was even more pronounced, but a lingering worry creased his brow.

"Master, Mr. Lin," Zhou Wenyuan bowed and said cautiously, "Recently... things have been a bit unsettled in the circles."

He informed Lin Fan and Nüwa that since the news of the three "sacred artifacts" being acquired at exorbitant prices had spread within a small circle, the number of people inquiring about "Master Nüwa" had suddenly increased, both openly and secretly. Among them were individuals with extremely deep backgrounds, whom even he found daunting. Some were relatively polite, merely wishing to meet the Master and obtain a piece of her work; but others, with an unquestionable assertiveness, even veiled threats, wanted to "invite" the Master to "visit" or directly demanded the Master's contact information.

"I am incompetent, Master. Despite my best efforts to navigate this, I fear... paper can't wrap fire forever," Zhou Wenyuan said with a wry smile. "Your existence, and the miraculous nature of your creations, have already attracted the attention of certain... truly important figures. The power they possess far exceeds my imagination."

Lin Fan understood. That phone call from the effeminate voice likely came from one of these "important figures'" factions, unable to contain themselves and coming directly to their doorstep.

"Do you know who they are?" Lin Fan asked.

Zhou Wenyuan hesitated, then lowered his voice, "I dare not speak their specific names. But among them are ancient families with long overseas lineages, international consortiums controlling vast capital, and even... potentially involving special departments at the national level. Their interest in the Master's 'power of creation' is likely far beyond simple art collection or health and wellness..."

His implication was very clear. Nüwa's ability to turn lead into gold, to transform the rotten into the marvelous, and possibly even to contain the secrets of life, was enough to drive any ambitious person mad.

Nüwa listened, her expression still calm, though a faint trace of pity flickered in her eyes. "All beings suffer, trapped by desire. However, to coerce with power and oppress with status is ultimately a lesser path, far from the Great Dao."

She seemed unconcerned about her own safety, more worried about the disputes and disasters that these greedy hearts might bring.

Zhou Wenyuan continued, "However, it's not all bad news. An elder of great prestige, through many connections, has approached me expressing his desire to visit the Master. This elder is highly influential both domestically and internationally, upright in character, and has an excellent reputation. He is primarily drawn to the 'Dao' and 'artistic conception' contained within the Master's works and wishes to exchange ideas with the Master, with no other intentions. I believe, perhaps... meeting him would not be a bad thing?"

He was considering Nüwa's best interests. Rather than being targeted by wolves, it would be better to actively befriend some truly influential individuals with principles.

Lin Fan looked at Nüwa.

Nüwa nodded slightly, "If one sincerely seeks the Dao, an exchange or two is not impossible."

She did not reject interacting with mortals, provided they approached with sincerity.

Zhou Wenyuan breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you, Master! I will arrange it immediately and ensure the meeting is quiet and secure."

Just as Zhou Wenyuan was about to take his leave to arrange the meeting with the esteemed elder, Tong Tian, who had been silent until now, suddenly spoke calmly. He still had his back to them, his gaze seemingly piercing through the computer screen and into a more distant void:

"Tell them, if they wish to see my junior sister, they may. But they must abide by my rules."

Zhou Wenyuan and Lin Fan were both taken aback.

"Senior, what do you mean?" Lin Fan asked.

Tong Tian slowly turned around. In his deep, abyss-like eyes, stars seemed to flow, and sword shadows flickered. He looked at Nüwa and spoke with an unquestionable decisiveness, "My junior sister's Dao creates all beings. How can it be lightly insulted by worldly desires? Since avoidance is impossible, then there is no need to avoid. Rather than waiting for demons and monsters to lurk in the shadows, it is better to set a threshold and await those 'destined'."

He paused and stated his "rules":

"Three days from now, at the hour of the snake, at the 'Cloud Gazing Platform' on West Mountain. My junior sister will leave a new work on the platform. Anyone who wishes to see her must ascend the platform and observe it. Only those who can stand within ten feet of the work for the duration of one incense stick without retreating will be qualified to speak with my junior sister behind a screen."

"Remember, it's 'stand within ten feet, one incense stick without retreating'."

His words were plain, yet carried a world-shattering weight!

Setting a threshold! Publicly laying a trap!

This was no longer a discreet private arrangement, but a near-tyrannical declaration of existence to all covetous parties, drawing an invisible line!

Standing within ten feet for the duration of one incense stick without retreating? It sounded simple enough. But both Lin Fan and Zhou Wenyuan understood that with the immense Dao rhythm and life force contained within Goddess Nüwa's creations, ordinary people would feel their minds shaken just by approaching. If they had impure intentions or were filled with distracting thoughts, they might struggle to even get close, let alone stand still for so long within ten feet! This was clearly a selection process! A test of one's state of mind and destiny!

Nüwa's eyes flashed with surprise upon hearing this, which then transformed into understanding and approval. She nodded gently, "My senior brother's method is excellent. It can filter out the impure and retain the pure, saving much trouble."

Zhou Wenyuan was both shocked and delighted. He was shocked that Tong Tian's action would undoubtedly push Master Nüwa into the spotlight; he was delighted that, in doing so, those demons and monsters would have nowhere to hide, and those truly destined would be able to meet the Master! This was simply a stroke of genius!

"I understand! I will go and release the news... 'inadvertently'!" Zhou Wenyuan said excitedly, as if he could already envision the scene of a gathering storm at the Cloud Gazing Platform on West Mountain three days later!

The news, as if it had grown wings, quickly reached all the forces paying attention to "Master Nüwa" through Zhou Wenyuan's discreet and efficient channels.

For a time, the undercurrents of various factions were thrown into disarray by this sudden "invitation," which carried strong overtones of provocation and selection.

Some scoffed, deeming it a mere pretense.

Others were wary, suspecting a trap.

But more, especially those who considered themselves steadfast and well-connected, were eager to try. A new creation? Standing still within ten feet for the time it takes an incense stick to burn? What difficulty could that pose? They were determined to see what methods this "Master Nüwa," spoken of in such legendary terms, truly possessed!

The official "Dragon Group" naturally received the news immediately.

Chen Jing looked at the intelligence report, her brow furrowed. "West Mountain Cloud Gazing Platform? A public setup? What exactly do they want? To draw all the fire and then sweep us all up? Or... is there another motive?"

She felt the situation was completely slipping out of control. The entities within the "Shelter" were shifting from passive defense to active strategizing! This was by no means a good sign!

"Order! In three days, the surveillance around the West Mountain Cloud Gazing Platform will be elevated to the highest level! Mobilize all available monitoring equipment! I want to know who shows up then! And... what exactly is this so-called 'new creation'!" Chen Jing commanded sternly.

Meanwhile, the owner of the effeminate voice that had previously made threatening calls to Lin Fan let out a low, pleased chuckle upon hearing this news.

"Interesting... very interesting! So they've decided to step out on their own? Good, that saves us some trouble. Pass down the order, prepare according to the plan, the 'Dark Shadow' team is on standby. I want to see if this 'Master Nüwa's' creation can truly withstand... our 'methods'."

The three-day deadline arrived in the blink of an eye.

This day was clear and bright, with a gentle breeze.

The West Mountain Cloud Gazing Platform, originally an open-viewing spot in the suburbs with relatively few tourists, appeared exceptionally different today.

Around the platform, it seemed no different from usual, but upon closer inspection, one could spot figures in ordinary clothing, yet with sharp eyes and formidable auras, hidden in the shadows, vigilantly scanning their surroundings. Further into the surrounding mountains, more hidden monitoring points were established.

At the entrance to the platform, Zhou Wenyuan, accompanied by several capable subordinates, personally greeted (or rather, screened) visitors. He didn't stop anyone from ascending, merely smiling as he watched everyone who arrived.

Not many came, but each one exuded an extraordinary presence. There was an elder in simple attire but with wise eyes; a middle-aged magnate with a powerful aura, surrounded by his entourage; a martial artist in training attire, with a steady aura; and even two monks in robes, holding prayer beads... Clearly, anyone who received the news and dared to come was either a leader in their field or possessed immense backing.

Lin Fan also arrived. He stood in a relatively secluded corner of the platform, nervously observing the situation. Tong Tian and Nüwa had not come in person. According to the plan, Nüwa's new creation would be presented by Zhou Wenyuan precisely at the hour of the horse, placed at the center of the platform.

Time ticked by, and the atmosphere on the platform was subtle yet tense. Everyone sized each other up, whispering amongst themselves, their gazes frequently darting towards the empty area in the center of the platform.

The hour of the horse arrived.

Zhou Wenyuan took a deep breath and walked to the center of the platform. He cupped his hands towards the crowd and announced loudly, "Thank you all for your patronage in attending this appointment. Master Nüwa is unable to be here in person due to unforeseen circumstances, and has left behind a new creation, which is placed here. The Master has decreed that anyone who can stand still within ten feet of this object for the time it takes an incense stick to burn, without retreating, will have the opportunity to converse behind a curtain."

With that, he carefully took an object from a brocade box held by an assistant behind him and gently placed it on a white marble pedestal prepared in the center of the platform.

When the item was fully revealed to everyone, all were stunned, and then erupted in uncontrollable gasps and... an uproar!

It was not the clay sculpture or ink painting they had expected, but a... miniature "city," meticulously crafted from various colored clays!

A miniature modern metropolis, brimming with life and the scent of cooking fires, yet subtly flowing with an ineffable Dao rhythm!

There were skyscrapers, bustling traffic, parks and green spaces, playing children, and hurried pedestrians... Every detail was lifelike, and every scene contained a unique sense of "vitality" and "order"! It seemed not like an inanimate object, but a living, breathing, condensed scroll of civilization!

Even more astonishing was that this miniature "city" was placed on a slowly rotating "base" made of transparent clay. Within the base, clouds seemed to swirl and starlight flickered, making the entire "city" appear to float in the clouds, both real and dreamlike!

This creation was no longer merely serene or dynamic; it embodied Nüwa's deeper understanding and interpretation of "creation," "civilization," and "the myriad states of sentient beings"! Its Dao rhythm was so vast and complex, far surpassing any of her previous works!

"This work is named--The Mortal Realm," Zhou Wenyuan said solemnly, simultaneously lighting a thin incense stick and planting it before the pedestal.

"Let the test begin."

As his words fell, a strange silence descended upon the platform.

Everyone was awestruck by the miniature city named The Mortal Realm! It was too real, too grand, and too profound! The overwhelming Dao rhythm that washed over them, seemingly encompassing the joys and sorrows, the rise and fall of civilizations of billions of beings, made every soul tremble!

Some with weaker wills felt dizzy and disoriented just by looking at the city, as if their consciousness was about to be drawn into the bustling mortal world within that small space. They involuntarily took a few steps back, their faces pale.

Others, who considered themselves steadfast or had ulterior motives, began to attempt to step forward, crossing the ten-foot boundary.

However, the moment they stepped within ten feet--

Something unexpected happened!

It wasn't an invisible wall blocking them, but rather as if they had stepped into another world!

The clamor of the city seemed to resound in their ears, the joys and sorrows, desires and struggles of billions of beings surged like a tide, impacting their minds! It was not just vitality, but a baptism of the vast mortal world! The manifestation of entangled karma!

The magnate with the powerful aura, after stepping forward only three steps, saw his face change drastically. He seemed to see the deceit and treachery of his rise and fall in the business world, saw rivals who went bankrupt and jumped to their deaths because of his decisions... His inner demons flared, cold sweat dripped down his brow, and he retreated in disarray, gasping for breath.

The martial artist with the steady aura, after stepping five steps, felt his years of cultivating "calmness" crumble like paper before the surging mortal world's aura. His internal blood and qi churned, and he nearly suffered qi deviation. Terrified, he retreated rapidly.

The two monks, chanting Buddhist scriptures, stepped to the edge of the ten-foot boundary and persisted for a dozen breaths before finally retreating with solemn expressions. They clasped their hands together and said softly, "The karma of the mortal world is like the sea, like the abyss. Amitabha..."

The incense stick burned slowly.

On the platform, not a single person could truly enter the core ten-foot area, let alone stand still for the duration of an incense stick!

Everyone wore expressions of horror, gazing at the quietly rotating The Mortal Realm, which emanated boundless Dao rhythm, their eyes filled with reverence, disbelief, and a hint of... fear!

This was no mere work of art! It was clearly a grand formation for testing the Dao heart, a heart-refining array!

Zhou Wenyuan watched the incense stick nearing its end, then looked at the embarrassed "elites" on the platform, none of whom could pass the test. His reverence for Master Nüwa reached its zenith.

Lin Fan watched this scene from his corner, his heart surging. Though he was farther away, he could faintly feel the immense aura emanating from The Mortal Realm, gaining a deeper understanding of Goddess Nüwa's power of creation.

It seemed no one today would be fortunate enough to converse with the Goddess.

However, just as the incense stick was about to burn out, its ashes about to fall--

A slightly hunched figure, wearing a faded old Zhongshan suit, appeared silently at the edge of the platform at some unknown time.

It was the mysterious old man from the small inn, the one suffering from amnesia!

His eyes remained clouded, his face weathered, as if he had merely wandered there by chance.

His appearance didn't draw much attention; everyone's focus was on The Mortal Realm and the failures.

The old man looked blankly at The Mortal Realm in the center of the platform, then at the incense stick that was about to burn out. He tilted his head, appearing somewhat confused.

Then, to the astonished gazes of everyone, including Chen Jing's team hidden in the shadows and those with ulterior motives, he walked as if strolling, with a faltering yet natural pace, step by step, directly into that one-zhang boundary!

No pause! No discomfort! No effect whatsoever!

He so easily, as if walking in his own backyard, reached a spot just three feet from The Mortal Realm and stopped. He curiously observed the miniature city, and in his clouded eyes, a faint, imperceptible flicker of light seemed to flash.

He raised his head and looked into the void, as if piercing through space-time, and murmured in a voice only he could hear:

"This path... familiar... protect..."

Then, he simply stood there, at the core of the magnificent red dust Dao rhythm, within the one-zhang limit that had caused countless elites to falter and fall, appearing both out of place and as if he belonged there all along.

At that very moment, the incense stick burned its last ember of red light, turning into a wisp of smoke that curled and dissipated.

Zhou Wenyuan was dumbfounded.

Lin Fan's pupils contracted.

All those who were watching were deeply shaken!

This old man, who looked like a homeless person... he actually did it?!