Return to Shrek Academy! Flender's Reform Plan!

The trip to the Star Dou Great Forest had lasted several days and had finally come to an end.

By the time Cao Kun returned to Buzhou Retreat on Shrek Academy's Back Mountain with Dugu Yan, Zhu Zhuqing, Xiao Wu, and Dazhuang the Iron-Eating Beast—now shrunk to the size of an adorable pet—it was evening three days later, and the last light of sunset lay across their path.

Away from the forest's constant tension and humid, stifling air, the three women relaxed as they stepped back into the familiar, peaceful courtyard.

Xiao Wu felt it most keenly. She still worried about Da Ming and Er Ming, but relief outweighed her concern.

At least they were safe for now, and they seemed to have gained a considerable opportunity.

Cao Kun asked the three women to prepare hot water, and everyone took a long bath, washing away the dust and exhaustion of the journey.

Around seven that evening, Dugu Yan changed after her bath and cooked a lavish dinner herself.

She had made a point of setting out a steaming copper pot, preparing a fragrant broth and slicing an assortment of meats and vegetables.

It was hot pot, one of Cao Kun's favorites. She had prepared it especially for him.

Sure enough, when the bubbling pot reached the table, its aroma filling the air, a faint smile appeared on Cao Kun's face.

The four of them and Dazhuang gathered around it, enjoying the food and the quiet evening together.

Dazhuang was especially fond of the thinly sliced meat. He ate until grease coated his mouth, looking so comical and endearing that he dispelled much of the grim mood left by their journey.

They had just finished dinner when Flender's and Zhao Wuji's voices came from outside the courtyard.

"Sir, Flender and Zhao