After receiving the order from the Lord of Ice Island to investigate the Thessul Race in the Northwest Territories, Guo Jiang did not immediately begin his journey. Preparation took precedence over haste, wisdom born of experience."I'll finish some of my plans on Ice Island before leaving for distant lands. Let me take three or four days off, then I'll head to the Ancient City!" Guo Jiang informed with measured tone, discussing his decision with Lin Heng who agreed after speaking with Lin Haoyu. Guo Jiang's Master gave his blessing, understanding the disciple's needs.Guo Jiang re entered the Tower of Death Palace Dungeon in the Elf Realm with renewed purpose. The familiar gate welcomed him like an old friend, ancient magic recognizing its conqueror.After being knocked unconscious due to receiving heavenly tribulation through lightning, he had not yet attempted the fourth floor of the Tower of Death. The breakthrough had taken precedence, body and spirit requiring time to adjust.To

This incident happened almost a thousand years ago in forgotten history. The event would shape the fate of entire regions, echoes rippling through centuries.When the sky on the western horizon turned red like blood, after several days a strange storm phenomenon littered the horizon. The celestial display was unprecedented, terrifying in its beauty and destruction."What is causing these space storms that are littering our horizon with unnatural fury?" Voices rose in panic across villages."Look at this disaster. Space dust and sand are covering all the crops without mercy. We're going to have crop failures!" Farmers despaired, watching their livelihoods buried."Even breathing has become difficult with each passing hour. The air is now completely polluted!" Mothers covered their children's faces with cloth, protection inadequate against the choking atmosphere.That was some of the conversation among the people of the old South, West, and Northwest regions. The panic spread across the

The figure, who turned around and looked at Guo Jiang with widening eyes, his face filled with shock. After recognition dawned, he hugged Guo Jiang tightly and began to cry with overwhelming emotion. Years of worry released in that moment."Brother Guo Jiang, you are still alive! Fatty is so relieved to hear the news that you have returned to this Ice Island," Fatty said in a voice filled with admiration and joy. Tears streamed down his round face, unchecked and unashamed.The two of them exchanged old stories of past adventures and shared hardships. But Guo Jiang had to end it quickly despite desire to linger. "I'm afraid I'll be late for the scheduled departure of the ship to Suzhong City in the Northwest! Sometime after I'm done with this mission, I'll visit you properly!" The promise was sincere, friendship valued despite duty.As a farewell gift that spoke of generosity, Fatty gave Guo Jiang a trendy outfit complete with accessories. A hat or cap was included, a typical Northern

With a condescending expression twisting his features, Wuying said with venom. "Words without proof, it's just mere gossip from a hired driver! I won't believe that this young man has enough money to stay in the best room in our Moonlight Mansion!" The servant put on a haughty face, arms crossed.Guo Jiang didn't let these demeaning words bother him in the slightest. He remained calm like still water, expression unchanged."How much does it cost to stay in the best room at Moonlight Mansion?" Guo Jiang asked casually with mild curiosity. The question was simple, direct.Still maintaining a sneering expression of superiority, Wuying replied lazily with deliberate slowness. "One thousand mid grade Energy Stones, and they must be paid in advance!" His face was full of challenge, certain of victory. "Do you have that much money on your person?"Guo Jiang then took out a green gemstone the size of an adult's big toe from his pouch. The green gemstone was an Emerald of exceptional quality,

The bustle and life of the Ancient City during the day was vastly different from that at night. Guo Jiang observed the city's life as the sun shone brightly overhead, casting long shadows. There was no trace of the ominous aura he had felt when he arrived the night before, darkness banished by daylight.The streets are currently crowded with various horse drawn vehicles and spiritual animals carrying goods. All levels of society were busy with their activities, especially around trading areas where merchants hawked wares. The energy was palpable, commerce flowing like river current.However, one building caught Guo Jiang's attention with its imposing presence. It had a sturdy structure and reached five floors into sky, dominating the skyline. The architecture spoke of wealth and power consolidated."Wux Building and Enterprises!" Guo Jiang read the large signboard on the fifth floor of the building with interest. "Isn't this the Wux Clan Building? Well, this clan has really flourished