Within the Martial Realm of the Immortal Empire was the nation of Fan. As dusk cloaked the capital city, traders and soldiers who had busied themselves all day began to pack up, eager to return home.3

At home, loving wives had readied delicious meals, and children awaited their fathers' return, hoping for small gifts. Thousands of lights illuminated the city, casting a peaceful glow that painted a tranquil picture of contentment.0

Life here was simple—work, family, respect for the elders, and raising children. While humble, there was a quiet beauty in this life of companionship, children and grandchildren around one's knees. It was a life filled with little joys.0

But even such serene lives could burst like delicate bubbles.0

Inside a modest teahouse, a girl in plain clothes leaned on the windowsill, watching the bustling crowd below. With a pout, she lamented, "Grandpa, I miss Stray Dog!"1

The teahouse owner, a robust old man with snow-white hair but a face flush with vitality, chuckled. "Miss him? The lad's only been gone a few days!" He popped a few goji berries into his tea.0

"I don't care. I want to go to the Heavenly Realm too," the girl protested.0

"Nonsense!...0