**CHAPTER 24 — Father-in-Law Test (Part 1)**
The next morning, Qinghe City buzzed with unusual activity. Merchants lined the streets early, nobles clustered near balconies, and guards rushed back and forth.
Jason Wu sensed powerful spiritual fluctuations approaching from the sky.
Leon whispered, "You think he's friendly?"
Jason replied, "Probably not."
A streak of golden light descended toward the north plaza. It slowed, condensed, and formed the figure of a man in luxurious silver robes with golden embroidery. His aura was overwhelming—refined, ancient, vast.
His presence felt like a mountain crushing the sky.
Pavilion Master Xueyin had arrived.
Lily ran forward. "Father!"
The powerful figure turned—and his stern expression softened. "Lily."
Then his gaze shifted toward Jason Wu.
Jason bowed politely. "Senior."
Silence.
Very long silence.
Leon whispered, "Oh no… he's scanning your soul."
Jason whispered back, "Be quiet."
Finally, Pavilion Master Xueyin spoke.
"So." He examined Jason from head to toe. "You are the boy who drags my daughter into collapsing crypts."
Jason winced.
Lily stepped forward. "Father! Jason saved me—"
"I am aware," the Pavilion Master interrupted gently. "But I'm also aware that he is the reason you were in danger in the first place."
Jason inhaled deeply. "Senior, I take full responsibility—"
"Good," the Pavilion Master said. "Because you will prove it."
Leon muttered, "I knew it. Boss fight."
The Pavilion Master raised a hand.
A spiritual formation formed beneath them—an entire arena of golden qi runes.
"Jason Wu," he declared, "if you wish to accompany my daughter into the Hollow Abyss, you must first withstand my test."
Jason stepped forward. "I accept."
Lily grabbed his sleeve. "Jason—my father doesn't hold back."
Jason smiled gently. "I know."
She hesitated, then whispered, "Don't die."
The Pavilion Master's aura flared, making nearby buildings tremble. "Prepare yourself."
Jason exhaled, heart steady.
His sword spirit whispered:
*"Boy… good luck. You're about to fight a man who could probably kill an elephant by blinking."*
Jason tightened his stance.
The test began.