Just as the scholar surnamed Xu had said, when Song You arrived at Fuyao County, he casually asked at a local shop. Not only did the shopkeeper know of the Xu family—this very shop actually belonged to them.0

Hearing that Song You had come to exorcise evil spirits and eliminate demons, the shopkeeper gave him a thorough look. Seeing that this Daoist indeed seemed extraordinary, the shopkeeper personally led him through the streets and alleys toward the Xu residence.0

By this time, night had fallen, and dusk had turned to darkness.0

Song You and the young girl stood outside the Xu residence. From across the courtyard wall, they observed the grand estate.0

Though Fuyao was not a major city, it wasn’t small either. The Xu residence, though not overly ostentatious, was clearly refined. The tall walls and deep courtyards could prevent fires from spreading and deter prying eyes or thieves. Every roof corner and eave was decorated with exquisite ornaments. Even the white walls beneath the eaves were adorned with paintings, revealing the family’s deep cultural heritage.0

Yet, from within those high walls, a faint evil qi seemed to seep out.0

The shopkeeper remarked as he knocked on the door, “Though the master’s family has fallen on hard times, their ancestors once held the prestigious rank of second-grade official in...0