Chapter 3

I. The Crisis Eases and the Fog Begins to Clear

As soon as Su Yao passed on the news that the mysterious elders had taken the bait, the entire situation changed in the blink of an eye. The expressions of the Wang family members, which had been tense and oppressed, were now filled with hope again. The solemnity and determination that had arisen from their efforts to guard the family secret now shone brightly in everyone's eyes. A barely noticeable smile appeared on their faces, as if they were telling themselves that they were finally turning the tide.

The mysterious elder, accompanied by his subordinates, hurried back. His face still bore the ferocity and self-confidence from before, and his haughty demeanor seemed to declare to everyone that victory was within his grasp. However, before he had even fully entered the secret passage, the Wang family members were already at their posts, ready for battle. The invisible pressure they exerted was so intense that it almost overwhelmed the mysterious elder, causing him to frown slightly and a trace of unease to creep into his heart.

At this moment, Nanjing Mo had already led his men, like ghosts, hiding in key positions throughout the secret passage. Their expressions were serious and focused, their hands tightly gripping their weapons, waiting for the perfect moment to launch a deadly attack on the mysterious elder and his men.

Su Yao stood in a relatively concealed position, her eyes slightly narrowed as she closely monitored every move in the situation. The "Evil-Exorcising Crystal" in her hand emitted a soft glow, as if gathering strength for the upcoming battle. The mysterious elder's group entered the secret passage without any guard, still immersed in the so-called "victory" joy.

"Humph, old man, lying? Bring out the goods!" The mysterious elder shouted loudly, his voice echoing in the secret passage, filled with arrogance and certainty.

As his subordinates one by one presented the so-called mysterious objects, a triumphant smile appeared on the mysterious elder's face, as if victory was within his grasp.

However, just as everyone was lost in the "victory" of the mysterious elder, Nanjing Mo gave a signal with his eyes. In an instant, a powerful offensive erupted from all corners of the secret passage. Countless arrows, like lightning, were shot towards the mysterious elder's group. The arrow rain was dense, and the whistling sound echoed continuously in the secret passage.

Accompanied by Nanjing Mo's low shout, "Attack!"

The Wang family members surrounding the area, like tigers descending from the mountains, rushed towards the mysterious elder and his men with shouts. Amid the flash of swords and the clash of weapons, the battle erupted immediately. The shouts of battle were deafening, and the secret passage was in chaos.

Faced with this sudden attack, the mysterious elder was terrified. His originally calm face suddenly became ferocious. He quickly ordered his subordinates to resist. The guards quickly formed a circle, creating a seemingly solid defensive barrier. But under the fierce attack of the Wang family members, this barrier began to show cracks.

Seeing the situation develop to this point, Su Yao was secretly pleased. She seized the opportunity and took out the "Evil-Exorcising Crystal" from her bosom, throwing it with force. The crystal ball drew a beautiful arc in the air and flew precisely towards the mysterious elder's energy shield.

When the "Evil-Exorcising Crystal" touched the energy shield, a clear sound was emitted. The seemingly indestructible black energy shield immediately showed cracks, like a shattered mirror.

The mysterious elder's eyes widened in shock, and the fear in his heart was hard to conceal. He had never imagined that he would be trapped in such a hopeless situation in a battle that seemed sure to be won.

"Humph, you think, old man, afraid of you nobodies? Do you think you can stop me with just you guys?"

Although the mysterious elder still sounded tough, his heart was beginning to panic. He desperately strengthened his magic power, trying to repair the energy shield. At this time, the subordinates led by Nanjing Mo also began to use their spells. Rays of light shot towards the energy shield.

Under the combined attack of the Wang family members, Nanjing Mo's men, and the heavy blow from Su Yao's "Evil-Exorcising Crystal", the mysterious elder gradually felt powerless. Finally, he sighed deeply and said, "Forget it, today, I was wrong."

Su Yao stepped forward and said coldly, "That's right. Today, let you know that it's not easy to trap the Wang family. I hope you won't bother the Wang family and other righteous people again."

The mysterious elder glared at Su Yao and said nothing more before turning around and heading towards the outside of the manor.

This intense battle left the Wang family members exhausted. Li Ming looked at the people and sighed emotionally, "Today's battle, everyone fought very bravely. You fought for the honor of the family and the protection of the family secret, and made great efforts. But we must also realize clearly that this is just the beginning. The mysterious organization will not give up easily. We still have a long way to go."

The crowd nodded in agreement.

After the battle, Su Yao took out the mysterious object from her bosom and began to study it carefully. Li Ming and other elders of the Wang family also gathered around, trying to find clues from it. However, they were deeply immersed in it, frowning, and had not yet figured out its mystery.

II. Doubts Arise and New Clues Emerge

After a short rest, the Wang family members gradually regained some strength. However, there was no substantial progress in the study of the mysterious object. Everyone discussed various possible explanations and directions, but each person felt a sense of unease.

Elder Li Ming stroked the strange symbols on the mysterious object and said slowly, "This object looks somewhat familiar, but I can't remember where I've seen it. What about you all? Do you recognize it?"

The other elders nodded, indicating that they had the same feeling, but their faces were all filled with confusion. Elder Li Ming narrowed his eyes and fell into deep thought.

At this moment, Su Yao said softly, "Some of the symbols on this object are likely secret codes of an ancient hidden sect. Maybe they are one of the keys to unlocking the mystery of Wang Xu. Let me try to decipher them using the knowledge passed down in our family."

Su Yao began to study the symbols on the mysterious object with full concentration. She lowered her head in thought from time to time and muttered to herself, as if exploring an unknown mysterious world. Time passed unnoticed, and the entire secret passage was quiet except for the faint sound of breathing.

Finally, Su Yao said excitedly, "I think I have found something! These symbols seem to be pointing in a direction, leading to an ancient ruin deep in this area. There may be important clues related to the secret of Wang Xu there!"

Her words were like a pebble thrown into a calm lake, instantly causing a huge stir in everyone's hearts. The faces of the Wang family members gradually showed anticipation and excitement, and their eyes were filled with hope, as if they saw the dawn of uncovering the family secret.

Li Ming said slowly, "Miss Su Yao, I agree that there are definitely dangers. But for the honor of the family and to uncover the secret of Wang Xu, we have no other choice. I suggest we start preparing immediately and head to that ancient ruin!"

Everyone responded positively, willing to follow Elder Li Ming. Although they knew that the road ahead was full of danger and challenges, they were resolute for the sake of the family secret.

Nanjing Mo stood aside, watching the excited expressions of the crowd, and said solemnly, "Elder Li, I've heard that the ancient ruin is full of danger, not only with various traps but also guarded by fierce beasts. We must not be complacent and must be well-prepared."

Li Ming nodded and said, "Nanjing Gongzi is right. Let's plan carefully first and collect some items to deal with the danger. Then we can set off."

The crowd sprang into action, starting to prepare various supplies and weapons in an orderly manner. Some went to collect dry food and water, some prepared herbs for treating wounds and healing, and others went to forge and repair weapons. Everyone's busy figures revealed their determination and resolve.

At the same time, Su Yao continued to study the mysterious object, hoping to obtain more information about the ancient ruin. She carefully observed every detail, trying to decipher the hidden secrets.

Outside the secret passage, the black-robed men, black-clothed men, and other members of the mysterious organization, although just defeated by the Wang family, did not give up. The mysterious elder sat in a dark corner, his face as dark as the sky before a storm. His eyes revealed deep anger and unwillingness, and he muttered to himself, "Humph, today's grudge will be avenged tenfold tomorrow! Today, you're lucky, Wang family. Don't get too happy."

The black-robed leader snorted coldly and agreed, "Elder, don't worry. We will surely make a comeback. However, the Wang family turned out to be so difficult to deal with, and it seems that there are still others helping them behind the scenes. We must investigate carefully, find out the real culprit, and then strike them hard."

The other black-robed men and black-clothed men also nodded, their eyes shining with ill intentions.

III. Setting off on the Journey, Challenges Abound

After a careful and tense preparation, the early morning of the next day arrived. The first ray of sunlight penetrated the cracks in the secret passage and shone on the ground, adding a glimmer of hope and vitality to the mysterious and solemn atmosphere. The Wang family members, with a persistent pursuit and firm conviction for the family secret, took the first step towards the ancient ruin.

The sunlight shone on them, as if draping a sacred glow over them. Their eyes were filled with the light of firmness and courage, and each step they took was firm and powerful. On this unknown journey, their figures were like fearless warriors, advancing resolutely.

However, the road ahead was far more rugged and dangerous than they had imagined. Shortly after leaving the manor, they encountered a dense jungle. The jungle was filled with thick fog, and visibility was extremely low, making people feel as if they were in a hazy, misty world. Strange sounds, such as the chirping of birds and the low growls of unknown creatures, echoed faintly in the fog, filling people with fear.

The younger generation of the Wang family was not intimidated by this eerie environment. They followed closely behind their elders. Elder Li Ming walked at the front of the group, holding a long sword, carefully observing the surroundings and clearing the obstacles. Suddenly, a huge venomous spider dropped from a tree and attacked the crowd. The venomous spider was huge, covered with black fur, and its sharp fangs flashed coldly, making people shiver. Young man Wang Yu reacted quickly. He drew his long sword from his waist and leaped forward, hacking at the venomous spider. After a fierce battle, Wang Yu finally killed the venomous spider, but his arm was also scratched by the fangs of the venomous spider, and blood flowed down.

As the crowd continued to move forward, a wide river suddenly appeared in front of them. The river water was turbid and rushing, and the surface was covered with dense fog, making it impossible to see the depth and condition of the riverbed.

The Wang family members stood by the river, feeling uneasy. Elder Li Ming carefully observed the surrounding environment and noticed some old waterwheels and ropes by the river. After thinking for a moment, he said, "Don't panic, everyone. I have an idea. Let's use these waterwheels and ropes to build a simple bridge."

Under the command of Elder Li Ming, everyone sprang into action. Some went to fix the ropes, some went to move the wood, and some went to build the framework of the bridge. After some effort, a simple bridge was finally built.

The Wang family members carefully stepped onto the bridge and walked towards the other side of the river step by step. However, the bridge body began to shake under the attack of the river water, which was terrifying. Young man Wang Rui stepped forward. He asked everyone to hold on tightly to him, and then, with his agile body, walked step by step to the other side of the river. Under his leadership, everyone finally crossed the river safely.

IV. The Ruin Appears, Full of Danger

After a series of difficult and dangerous experiences, the Wang family members finally arrived at the edge of the ancient ruin. The ruin was hidden in a dense forest, surrounded by tall trees, giving a sense of mystery and solemnity.

The mysterious elder stood at the entrance of the ruin, his eyes revealing a greedy and sinister look. He looked at the Wang family members and coldly said, "Humph, you finally came. Today is your doomsday!"

The Wang family members were not intimidated by the mysterious elder's imposing manner. Elder Li Ming walked forward, his gaze fixed on the mysterious elder, and said, "In today's battle, we will surely be victorious! For the honor of the family and to uncover the secret of Wang Xu, we will not back down!"

Everyone responded to Elder Li Ming's call and prepared for battle.

The two sides confronted each other at the entrance of the ruin, and the atmosphere was extremely tense. The mysterious elder took the lead in launching an attack. He cast a spell, and a powerful energy surged from his body and rushed towards the Wang family members. Nanjing Mo immediately ordered his men to cast defensive spells, and a powerful energy barrier formed in front of them, blocking the mysterious elder's attack.

Elder Li Ming led the young generation of the Wang family to charge forward. Swords clashed and shouts of battle filled the air. Young men like Wang Yu and Wang Rui fully demonstrated their strength and engaged in intense battles with the henchmen of the mysterious organization.

During the battle, Su Yao continuously observed the situation in the ruin. She noticed that there seemed to be many mysterious auras and special energy fluctuations hidden in the ruin. She decided to temporarily disrupt the attack rhythm of the mysterious organization and look for clues to explore the ruin. So, she cast a wonderful spell and created an illusion, confusing some of the members of the mysterious organization.

The mysterious elder realized that the situation was not good, and he immediately adjusted his tactics and launched an attack again. At this time, the Wang family members were already engaged in a fierce melee with the mysterious organization.

In the chaos, some of the Wang family members began to try to explore the entrance of the ruin. Elder Li Ming fought while leading the elders of the family, following Su Yao's previous interpretation and guidance, looking for the real entrance of the ruin. They found that the entrance of the ruin seemed to be sealed by a mysterious force and needed to decipher specific symbols and passwords to open it.

The elders of the Wang family began to study the symbols and passwords on the seal together. With their family's knowledge and experience passed down, they gradually deciphered some information.

At this moment, the mysterious elder noticed the actions of the Wang family members. He roared angrily and led his subordinates towards the elders of the Wang family. Elder Li Ming and the others felt the strong pressure from the mysterious elder, but they still stood firm and did not back down.

V. The Truth Unfolds, Cooperation Continues

An intense battle erupted at the entrance of the ruin. The mysterious elder was extremely powerful, and each of his attacks contained the power to destroy heaven and earth. The elders of the Wang family felt an unprecedented pressure, but with their tenacious will and their firm guardianship of the family secret, they did not back down.

Elder Li Ming's eyes were firm. His long sword in his hand swung out sword flowers one after another, blocking the mysterious elder's attacks. The other elders were not to be outdone. They closely cooperated and cast their respective ultimate skills, engaging in a life-and-death struggle with the mysterious elder and his subordinates.

Just as the battle reached its climax, Su Yao suddenly felt a strange energy fluctuation coming from inside the ruin. This force seemed to be calling her, and she couldn't help but walk towards the depths of the ruin.

Su Yao carefully walked into the ruin. The walls on both sides were engraved with ancient symbols and patterns, exuding a mysterious aura. She walked along a quiet corridor and finally came to a spacious hall. In the center of the hall stood a huge stone tablet, on which the origin, development of the Wang family and the records related to the secret of Wang Xu were engraved.

Su Yao carefully studied the content on the stone tablet, and her doubts gradually dissipated. She learned that Wang Xu was not only a great scholar but also a protector of the Wang family for thousands of years. The secret he left was about the location of a mysterious book that could protect the prosperity of the family, as well as the methods and wisdom of protecting the family.

Su Yao, carrying this good news, hurried back to the battlefield. She shouted to the Wang family members, "Don't panic, everyone! I've found the truth! These secrets are deep inside the ruin. Let's keep moving forward!"

Upon hearing this news, the Wang family members were greatly inspired. They fought harder and engaged in a final battle with the mysterious organization. Nanjing Mo also realized that this was a crucial moment to turn the tide. He led his men and launched a more fierce attack.

The mysterious elder realized that the situation was hopeless and was filled with unwillingness. But he also knew that continuing the battle would only bring greater losses. So, he sighed deeply and led his subordinates to flee the ruin.

The intense battle finally ended, and the Wang family members cheered and hugged each other, tears of excitement flowing down.

Elder Li Ming looked at everyone and smiled satisfyingly. He said, "We've succeeded! The family secret has finally been found! This is the result of the efforts of every family member, especially Miss Su Yao's wisdom and courage, and the support of Nanjing Gongzi and his men."

Su Yao smiled and said, "Everyone fought for the honor and inheritance of the family. Without our cooperation, we couldn't have won this battle."

Nanjing Mo also said, "Today's grudge, the mysterious elder will surely not let it go. We must be careful in the future."

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Under the leadership of Su Yao, the Wang family members entered the depths of the ruin together. They stopped in front of the stone tablet and began further exploration.

At this time, the black-robed men, black-clothed men, and other members of the mysterious organization began to regroup in the darkness. They plotted a new conspiracy in the dark, always focusing on the secret chamber explored by the Wang family members, waiting for an opportunity to strike a deadly blow to the Wang family.

The Wang family members, in this dangerous and unknown ruin, continued to explore the secrets and inheritance of the family. They knew that the road ahead was still full of challenges, but they were fully prepared for the honor and inheritance of the family.

As time went by, the Wang family members gradually adapted to the unique environment inside the ruin. Although the younger generation lacked experience, they became more familiar with the various traps hidden in the ruin under the guidance of the elders, driven by their love for the family and curiosity about the unknown. They carefully