The Mantis Stalks The Cicada, Unaware Of The Oriole Behind It.

Right above the subspace where Xu Qianghua's parents and aunt lounged, two figures stood in the shimmering void. One was a man, tall and imposing, exuding an aura of calm strength.

Beside him was a little girl, no older than five or six, her bright eyes fixed curiously on the scene below.

This man was none other than Xu Qianghua, but not the one currently talking in the meeting in Nexara. No, this was his future self, someone who had seen and done far more than the younger version now leading the meeting.

Beside him was his daughter, a cheerful little bundle of curiosity who clung to a plush blue bunny as though it were her greatest treasure.

The girl, whom Xu Qianghua affectionately called "Little Yu'er," had silky black hair tied into two pigtails that swayed as she moved. Her plump cheeks were rosy, and her innocent smile was as radiant as the stars.