Once I enter the pass, great Confucian scholars will surely debate the classics for me.

Sword Tower City, Zhou Mansion.

The hundred beautiful female slaves have been dispersed in batches and placed in the backyard to take care of the master's daily life. Some of the most beautiful female slaves have been selected and invited famous courtesans from the city to teach them music and dance for their entertainment.

In the front courtyard, a hundred robust male slaves each performed their duties, maintaining the daily order of the mansion. Their presence made the Zhou mansion operate more smoothly and efficiently.

Zhou Qingfeng's life became incredibly comfortable as a result. All his daily chores were taken care of, and every detail, from food and lodging to leisure and entertainment, was arranged meticulously to ensure that he could enjoy ultimate peace and comfort in the mansion, far away from the hustle and bustle and monotony of the mortal world.

In terms of security, Zhou Qingfeng's private guards are stationed throughout the mansion, always on high alert; in addition, with the unassuming Old Cripple in charge, any uninvited guest attempting to invade the Zhou mansion would be deterred.

At this very moment, in the back garden, Zhou Qingfeng and the old cripple were having a casual chat, savoring the rich flavor of "Heavenly Immortal Brew," and discussing many things related to the world competition.

The performances by dancers and musicians at the lakeside pavilions added a touch of liveliness and elegance to this tranquil afternoon.

Shui'er sat quietly to the side, listening intently to their conversation.

Whenever a glass was empty, she would promptly refill it, her attentive service leaving no room for complaint.

Once the wine jug was empty, well-trained maids would immediately step forward, respectfully replace it with new wine, and present fresh delicacies carefully prepared by the private kitchen.

Shui'er was so focused because she knew that the information inadvertently revealed in the conversation between the prince and his master was often a secret that those at the bottom of society could never access in their entire lives.

This listening experience was an opportunity for her to improve herself and broaden her horizons.

Zhou Qingfeng elegantly drank his wine and ate the delicious food in front of him: "Mr. Liao, I carefully reviewed the game afterward, and I think my performance on the world stage was simply a mess, utterly unbearable."

“I feel I can do better, be more perfect, and even wipe out all the participating teams, but I don’t know how to improve. I would appreciate Mr. Liao’s guidance.”

The old cripple leisurely watched the dance and listened to the music, savoring the fine wine: "Si Lang, it's normal for you to have this kind of mentality. It proves that you are growing rapidly. This growth is invisible and you are unaware of it, which is why you are not satisfied with your performance."

"If you think you're doing it all perfectly, it just proves you're standing still."

Upon hearing this, Zhou Qingfeng's doubts were immediately resolved. He raised his glass and said, "Thank you for clearing up my doubts, Mr. Liao."

The old cripple smiled faintly: "No need for thanks, these are just my old experience. Alright, you have guests, you don't need to drink and make merry with me here. Shui'er can keep me company. You go and take care of your business."

Upon hearing this, Zhou Qingfeng turned around to look.

Jin Wei led a girl in white into the back garden.

As Jin Wei stepped into the back garden, everyone's attention was involuntarily drawn to a woman.

She was Mao Yuling, dressed in a plain white robe, her clothes fluttering, like a gentle breeze in the mountains, untouched by the dust of the world.

Her steps were light and graceful, each step revealing an extraordinary temperament. Her long hair cascaded down her back, with a few strands fluttering in the wind, further enhancing her ethereal beauty.

Mao Yuling's face was aloof and stunningly beautiful, with delicate features, skin as white as snow, and eyes as clear as springs, containing both indifference and detachment, as well as a hint of subtle tenderness and compassion.

A faint smile played on her lips, neither arrogant nor overly approachable, maintaining a perfectly mysterious distance. Even amidst the Zhou mansion's prosperity and luxury, she retained her inherent aloofness and nobility, making everything around her seem like mere background.

Jin Wei stepped forward with his sword and whispered a few words in Zhou Qingfeng's ear.

After listening, Zhou Qingfeng nodded slightly, stood up, and casually beckoned to Mao Yuling, who was standing quietly in the distance.

Then Zhou Qingfeng walked towards another pavilion in the back garden.

Seeing this, Mao Yuling followed with light and agile steps.

Shui'er looked curiously at Mao Yuling's back and asked, "Jinwei, who is that sister? She's so beautiful, like...like...like a fairy from the heavens."

Jin Wei clasped his hands in response: "Miss Shui'er, that person is Mao Yuling, the granddaughter of the Second Young Master Mao. She and the Young Master were old acquaintances, but Miss Shui'er lives deep in the mansion and has never had the opportunity to meet her."

Upon hearing this, Shui'er suddenly understood. After learning the identity of the visitor, she stopped asking questions and focused on serving her master, chatting with him to relieve his boredom, talking about all sorts of interesting things in the books.

Zhou Qingfeng stepped onto another platform, lifted his robe, and sat down.

Mao Yuling faced Zhou Qingfeng, bowed deeply, and said, "Ling'er greets Fourth Grandfather."

Upon hearing this, Zhou Qingfeng frowned slightly. He didn't really like this title because he and Mao Yuling were actually about the same age, but rules are rules, and seniority was the way it was, and there was no way to change it.

Moreover, Mao Yuling's address of "Fourth Grandfather" immediately brought the two closer, which can be seen as a gesture of goodwill. If Zhou Qingfeng wanted to get along well with Mao Erlang, he would have to acknowledge this adopted granddaughter.

Unless Zhou Qingfeng decides to distance himself from the Mao family in the future, then it's a different story.

"Ling'er, there's no need for such formalities. Please have a seat." Zhou Qingfeng put on a friendly smile.

Mao Yuling straightened up, smiled calmly, and clasped his hands in response: "Thank you for the seat, Fourth Grandfather."

After speaking, Mao Yuling sat down gracefully on the chair next to her.

At this moment, a group of fair-skinned and beautiful maids brought fruit platters, snacks, and tea, bowed, and quickly withdrew.

Zhou Qingfeng smiled slightly: "Ling'er, what brings you to my residence today?"

Upon hearing this, Mao Yuling stood up again, clasped her hands in a fist and replied, "Fourth Grandfather asked a question, and Ling'er dared not lie. Grandfather sent Ling'er to deliver a congratulatory letter to you, wishing you success in reaching the top of the Heavenly Ranking. The gift has already been delivered to the front hall by the attendant."

Zhou Qingfeng said with a smile, "I'm afraid my visit today is not just for bringing gifts and congratulations."

Upon hearing this, Mao Yuling looked respectful: "Fourth Grandfather is wise. Actually, Ling'er has come for another important matter. Grandfather asked Ling'er to come here specifically to remind Fourth Grandfather to be careful recently and to be wary of Huangfu Yunzheng's subordinates doing something foolish that could endanger your life."

Zhou Qingfeng was slightly surprised to hear this, as he did not expect that Mao Yuling's visit would lead to this matter.

In fact, Zhou Qingfeng was a little worried about whether Huangfu Yunzheng's men would attack him. However, since his mother had already taken care of the aftermath, he shouldn't interfere. So he just stayed in the mansion all day, strengthening the security and waiting for the storm to pass.

At this moment, Mao Erlang sent someone to remind him, which was probably not just a simple reminder, but an opportunity to show goodwill and get closer to him.

Thinking of this, Zhou Qingfeng understood and smiled slightly: "I have received your kind intentions, Second Brother. Ling'er, please tell your Second Brother that we should visit each other often in the future. After all, relatives become closer the more they visit each other."

"Yes, Fourth Grandfather, Ling'er will relay your words to you without missing a single one." Mao Yuling had a cold expression and a noble demeanor, but she did not dare to put on airs of a noble lady in front of Zhou Qingfeng. She bowed and clasped her hands in a very polite manner, and only after finishing her reply did she sit down.

At this moment, a guard from the Zhou family quickly ran to Jin Wei's ear and whispered a few words: "Commander Jin, there is a man at the gate who claims to be Gu Daozhao, the commander of Prince Yunzheng's personal guard, requesting an audience with the young master."

Jin Wei nodded slightly, indicating that he understood, and then walked towards Zhou Qingfeng again, cupping his fists and saying, "Young Master, a guest has arrived. The visitor is Gu Daozhao, the commander of Huangfu Yunzheng's personal guard. Would you like to see him?"

Zhou Qingfeng and Mao Yuling exchanged a glance, both seeing a hint of surprise flash in each other's eyes.

After a moment's hesitation, Zhou Qingfeng said, "Let him in. I'd like to see what he wants to see me about."

"Yes, young master." Jin Wei clasped his hands in response, then gestured to the guards not far away. Upon seeing this, the guards immediately understood and nodded, then turned and ran towards the gate of the Zhou residence to receive the imperial edict and enter the Zhou residence to meet Zhou Qingfeng.

Zhou Qingfeng said with a smile, "Ling'er, my Zhou residence is quite lively today. Would you be interested in accompanying me to meet this Imperial Guard Commander, Gu Daozhao?"

Mao Yuling didn't want to get involved in this post-match controversy, so she wisely stood up, clasped her hands in a fist and said, "Fourth Grandfather is seeing guests, so Ling'er won't disturb you any longer."

"Alright." Zhou Qingfeng smiled and nodded. "Shui'er, come here!"

Upon hearing her brother's call, Shui'er immediately ran over and asked, "Brother, is something the matter?"

Zhou Qingfeng said, "Please help me send Ling'er back to the manor."

"Alright." Shui'er smiled and nodded, then gestured, "Miss Ling'er, please."

"Fourth Grandfather, Ling'er takes her leave." Before leaving, Mao Yuling was still respectful and polite, leaving no room for criticism.

Zhou Qingfeng watched Mao Yuling and Shui'er walk away hand in hand, smiling silently.

Since Mao Erlang has shown goodwill and is trying to get closer to him, he should naturally respond in kind.

Shui'er now represents not only herself, but also the Zhou family and Zhou Qingfeng in everything she says and does.

Who she associates with and who she doesn't associate with are very obvious signals to outsiders.

Taking this opportunity to have Shui'er see him off on his behalf would be the most intimate response.

This move would allow Mao Yuling to get to know Shui'er.

When the younger generations of the two families become acquainted, a deep friendship will inevitably develop over time.

"Mr. Liao, guess what Gu Daozhao wants to see me about?" Zhou Qingfeng returned to the old cripple's side and sat down next to him. After all, with such a great master sitting next to him, he wouldn't be afraid when facing Gu Daozhao.

A hint of a smile flashed in the old cripple's cloudy eyes: "Now everyone outside is saying that you killed Huangfu Yunzheng. You became famous by stepping on his corpse. What does Gu Daozhao want from you? Nothing more than to avenge his master."

Zhou Qingfeng clicked his tongue: "Tsk, what a loyal lackey."

The old cripple chuckled, raised his cup, and drank the wine in it: "Fourth Brother, you're standing so close to me, are you planning to use me as a shield later? Let me tell you, these old bones of mine can't take any more trouble."

Zhou Qingfeng said seriously, "How could that be? Mr. Liao, you're overthinking it. If a fight breaks out later, stand behind me and I'll protect you."

The old cripple said quietly, "You ask me if I believe you or not? Ask me now."

Zhou Qingfeng chuckled: "I won't ask."

Regardless of whether Gu Daozhao is a good dog or not, as long as Gu Daozhao dares to make a move in the Zhou residence, well, then we'll take this opportunity to eliminate him completely.

By using the heinous crime of assassinating the young master of the Sword Tower as a pretext, they completely eliminated this potential threat and ensured their own safety.

He wouldn't sit idly by and wait to be attacked; if he didn't have a chance to strike, he would create one.

Therefore, even though he knew that Gu Daozhao might have ill intentions in visiting him, he still chose to meet with Gu Daozhao.

This was a trap set up temporarily for Gu Daozhao.

If Gu Daozhao dares to jump, Zhou Qingfeng will dare to kill him.

And then he took the opportunity to kill all of Huangfu Yunzheng's remaining subordinates in the Sword Tower.

"You may all leave." Zhou Qingfeng waved his hand, signaling the dancers and musicians to leave. If these mortal servants stayed here, the aftershocks alone could kill them if the old cripple and Gu Daozhao were to fight.

Upon hearing this, the dancers and musicians bowed in unison: "Yes, young master."

As the dancers and musicians withdrew, the guards of the Food Demon Realm and Food Disaster Realm quickly secured all the high places and entrances of the back garden, waiting for Gu Daozhao to jump into the killing trap.

Soon, Jin Wei brought Gu Daozhao to the back garden. They stopped a few dozen steps apart. Jin Wei walked into the pavilion alone, clasped his hands and said, "Young Master, this is Gu Daozhao, Huangfu Yunzheng's guard commander."

Zhou Qingfeng nodded slightly and waved casually.

Seeing this, Jin Wei stepped aside, holding his sword, and stood beside the young master. If Gu Daozhao dared to attack the young master, Jin Wei would immediately risk his life to stop him and ensure the young master's absolute safety.

In Jin Wei's eyes, the young master's life was the most important, even more important than his own.

Because the young master is alive, the Jin family will enjoy endless wealth and a bright future. Even if he dies, the young master will surely treat the Jin family descendants well, and the Zhou family will always have a place for the Jin family descendants.

But once the young master collapses and is gone, no one will be spared when the nest is overturned. All those who depend on the Zhou family and their forces will perish along with him. No one will have a good outcome. Jin Wei understands this better than anyone else.

"Gu Dao Zhao, what important matter do you have to discuss with me, young master?" Zhou Qingfeng was at home wearing a black robe with red trim, barefoot, with one foot on the chair, leaning against the back of the chair, looking casual and unrestrained yet elegant.

Gu Daozhao surveyed his surroundings. Guards stood in rows, each gripping a sword hilt, exuding murderous intent. But he was not intimidated. These ant-like guards could be crushed with a single finger. Killing them all would only take a little time.

But when he looked at the bald old man sitting next to Zhou Qingfeng...

He immediately frowned, keenly sensing a dangerous and deadly aura.

The old cripple drank his wine and savored the delicious food, completely ignoring Gu Daozhao.

Seeing that Gu Daozhao did not respond for a long time, Jin Wei immediately scolded, "Gu Daozhao, the young master is asking you a question."

Gu Daozhao's gaze shifted back to Zhou Qingfeng's face, and he clasped his hands in a salute: "Young Master Zhou, I apologize for my rudeness. I have come to see you today only to make a statement to you."

Zhou Qingfeng raised an eyebrow, casually toying with the wine glass in his hand, and smiled knowingly: "Oh, I'd like to hear more about it."

P.S.: I went out for a field trip the past two days, so updates were inconsistent. I'm home today and will resume regular updates. Please consider giving me tips, following me, sending me free gifts, and giving me positive reviews. Thank you all for your support; I'm very grateful.