Early morning.
Dragon Creek City, the Cui Residence.
Zhang Yuan, Xiao Yuanjun, and Cui Zhaowei had temporarily settled into the Cui Residence, planning to wait for one of the Aohai Cui Clan's Magic Ships and take it to the East Sea.
The Cui Residence had made thoughtful arrangements, assigning each of the three a separate courtyard.
Of course, arrangements were one thing; Xiao Yuanjun still stayed with Zhang Yuan. At the moment, she had brought a recliner into the courtyard and was sitting in it, perfectly at ease.
Zhang Yuan sat cross-legged beneath a tree, refining his Sword Qi as usual, while Ao Xiu lay coiled nearby, taking a nap.
To drive back Wenren Qihan, he had once again exhausted the Sword Qi accumulated through the [Lamp-Lighting Oil-Adding Pill]. Before heading out to sea, he needed to stockpile as much Sword Qi as possible, building up his arsenal and reserves so he could better face any dangers that might arise.
Knock, knock, knock.
A sudden knock came from the door.
With a creak, the courtyard gate was gently pushed open, and a nimble figure stepped inside with light, brisk footsteps.
Xiao Yuanjun opened her eyes a sliver. Paying little attention to the visitor, she closed them again to rest.
Having refined the Xin Metal Chen Xinqiao had given her, she now needed to continue developing new mystic wonders and make every preparation for true-seeking Dao attainment.
Beneath the tree, Zhang Yuan heard the movement and opened his eyes to look at the visitor. He was a little surprised, though not entirely.
It was neither Cui Yuanxi nor Cui Zhaowei, but Xiao Shi.
"Great Immortal Master Zhang, it's been a long time."
Xiao Shi wore an azure outfit with lantern trousers and a pair of pillow-shaped shoes, looking lively and sprightly.