Main protagonist team striving group. 【Sun Miaomiao: Yuan Shishen has left the group... Have you checked the Five Elements Alliance's forum? @Zhao Chenghuang @Tianxia Guihuo @Xiahou Aotian】 【Zhao Chenghuang: I've seen it. He竟然 killed Cai Longshen within the副本—no matter what the reason, this is quite troublesome.】 The usually composed Xiao Zhao sent a series of "sigh" expressions, a rare display. 【Xiahou Aotian: Is there something wrong with the official team's thinking? Yuan Shishen may not be one-tenth as strong as our main protagonist, but he's still an outstanding talent—how can he be considered less than Cai Longshen? To punish Yuan Shishen for a mere crawler?】 Though Xiahou often acts and speaks in an imaginative, somewhat unreliable manner, his stance remains firmly aligned with Yuan Shishen. Since Yuan Shishen has killed Cai Longshen, Cai must surely meet the same fate. 【Xiahou Aotian: I'm furious that I haven't grown up yet. If only I had, I would have stormed headquarters, shattered Ling Everyone's ignoring his nonsense. Sun Miaomiao @ Tianxia Guihuo: ["Lend me your account—right now, the Wu-Xing Alliance forum is full of attacks on Yuan Shi Tianzun. I'm furious! I'm going to confront them directly."] The Taiyuan Sect's account can't post comments or updates. ["Tianxia Guihuo: Most are silent, only a few are vocal. Posts have been deleted, but doubts are taking root among mid- and lower-level members. If the headquarters doesn't defend Yuan Shi Tianzun's reputation, this stain will follow him for life."] ["Tianxia Guihuo: But I clearly won't lend you my account—I still don't want to go on the run. Honestly, your direct confrontations mean nothing."] ["Xiahou Aotian: Any way to save this guy? Oh, by the way, don't you always complain about 'Sun Elder's lack of clarity'? Let Sun Miaomiao and Zhao Chenghuang personally appeal to your grandfather. Threaten the Wu-Xing Alliance: if they dare to sanction Yuan Shi Tianzun, bring him over to the Taiyuan Sect."] 】 【Zhao Chenghuang: @Xiahou Aotian, that's my grandfather. My great-grandfather has already returned to the spiritual realm. Besides, your proposal isn't very good—it's as if you're deliberately causing trouble, intentionally undermining the dignity of the Wu Xing Alliance's headquarters, and disrupting its normal enforcement operations. Official organizations wouldn't reach this level of conflict.】 【Sun Miao Miao: The Tianfa Organization is the one that would do something like this. Xiahou Aotian always comes up with such poor ideas—what can anyone else do?】 【Sky Returns to Fire: Two options. First, hire a water-based media force to shape public opinion and apply pressure through media influence, then work on resolving the issue with the Nine Elders, making concessions and compromises to turn this matter into a minor one. Second, send family members abroad and defect from the Wu Xing Alliance, ideally joining the Tianfa Organization, so that the Tianfa Organization can highlight the Wu Xing Alliance's failure to retain its talents, its self-sabotage, and its internal corruption and inability to nurture people.】 【Sky Returns to Fire: Finally, win over a group of followers, gradually encourage But this is a strategy that leads to mutual defeat—completely severing ties with the official side. I personally don't recommend it. 【Xia Hou Ao Tian: How baseless can a Fire Master be?】 ... Hangzhou. Wearing headphones, a mask, and sunglasses, Guan Ya leads the Queen, Xie Lingxi, and a team of uniformed security officers through the bustling streets. "Beep..." The yellow light on the headphones flickers, and Li Chunfeng's serious, solemn voice comes through: "Team leader, Yuan Shi Tian Zun has encountered an issue." At the street corner, Guan Ya suddenly stops, pressing the headphones to her ear. "What's going on?" "I've sent a screenshot to the group chat—please take a look," Li Chunfeng says. Guan Ya immediately pulls out her phone, opens the patrol team's chat group, and sees a screenshot along with Li Chunfeng's message: 【The original post has been deleted.】 Guan Ya frowns, clicks on the image, and her expression turns pale. "Miss Guan," Xie Lingxi gasps behind her, "Brother Yuan has The young woman was filled with anxiety, eager to return to Songhai immediately—no, to go to the capital to visit the imprisoned official. The queen remained composed, her brows furrowed, waiting for Guan Ya’s response. "Continue patrolling," Guan Ya said in a low tone, stepping forward and activating her microphone. "Li Chunfeng, take my number and post a message. Use the issue of deleted posts as a narrative to question whether there's internal pressure within the headquarters aimed at undermining Yuan Shishen. If the headquarters cannot provide a fair and reasonable ruling, we will go on strike." "You're setting up a conspiracy narrative, aren't you? Will that work? Yuan Shishen has advanced too quickly—what interests has he disrupted? The grassroots simply remain grassroots; they don’t expect to rise to prominence. The spiritual realm has only existed for a century, yet some people have already grown arrogant." Li Chunfeng spoke with confidence. The queen immediately replied, "You understand the power of public opinion—I'll give you my account too." ... Fenglin Mountain, the mountain road winding up the slopes. A black business sedan sped along the quiet mountain highway. Ling Jun lounged against the back of his seat, silently scrolling through his phone. Suddenly, he murmured, "Guan Ya posted something—she really knows how to set the tone! Her words are quite sharp." He refreshed the forum and found the post had been deleted, though similar ones were now gaining momentum. More and more official members began posting, questioning the headquarters, demanding transparency about the case, calling for live broadcasts, and urging Yuan Shi Tian Zun to speak. The unexpected deletion of the confession post sent signals of something unusual to the previously quiet official members, who, once the narrative was set in motion, began to nurture and grow a growing body of conspiracy theories. "Fu Qingyang, should you hire a media team to shape the narrative? This feels like a prime opportunity for a counteroffensive," Ling Jun said, his spirits lifted. "Yuan Shi's reputation and influence don't need me to hire any media team," Fu Qingyang replied calmly. "The pressure on public opinion has already taken effect—otherwise, the posts wouldn't have been deleted." Master Qian gazed out the window at the scenery retreating behind him, his tone solemn: "Public opinion can only exert pressure—it's always a supporting role. To truly achieve results, one must be strong enough on their own. To hold the Primordial Heavenly Sovereign accountable, according to protocol, requires the agreement of at least five senior elders. Therefore, what we need to do now is secure the support of the Ten Elders." Among the Ten Elders, those clearly aligned with his side were the Grand Elder of the Hundred Blossom Assembly, two senior elders from the White Tiger military contingent, and Grand Elder Di Hong. The others, however, were still uncertain. How the headquarters will handle it, what the other elders think—Fu Qingyang, you must protect him. If you're not confident, go find Xuan Xuan." Fu Qingyang was slightly taken aback. He had not expected Fu Xue's shift in attitude toward Yuan Shi Tian Zun. "Your stance is truly resolute," Fu Qingyang remarked with a mocking tone. Resolute in prioritizing interests. "Isn't that just the hallmark of our Fu family tradition?" Fu Xue smiled lightly. ...Fu Qingyang spoke coldly, "I have no appetite for a verbal sparring match. Protecting Yuan Shi Tian Zun doesn't need your reminder. If you'd like to contribute, have your former husband reach out and generate some public pressure from Tian Fa." "He'd be delighted if the Wuxing Alliance handled Yuan Shi Tian Zun," Fu Xue scoffed, then hung up the phone. Not long after, a black business sedan arrived deep within Fenglin Mountain and came to a stop at the estate that resembled a botanical research institute. Lingjun smoothly guided Fu Qingyang to the manor, taking the shuttle bus through one pavilion after another, sunlight-filled glass buildings and villas, until they reached the central, castle-like main villa. At the grand iron gate, resembling black thorns, the elegant Teng had been waiting all along. Dressed in a deep blue dress, her rounded shoulders gracefully exposed, her hair swaying in the mountain breeze, she combined the clear, pure charm of a young girl with the mature grace of a woman, creating an irresistible allure through the harmony of these contrasting qualities. She hurriedly greeted her cousin and Fu Qingyang, lowering her voice: "I've heard the news about Yuanshishen. My grandfather just received a video conference invitation from Cai Elder." Fu Qingyang's composed face slightly darkened—clearly, Cai Elder was doing the same. Lingjun grew anxious and urged, "Let's go inside." The three entered the "castle" and proceeded to the living room, where they waited for two hours. Fu Qingyang sat motionless, as if carved from stone. Lingjun paced back and forth, growing increasingly annoyed and embarrassed. The elders' time was always precious—how could a meeting last two hours? It was clear that Grandfather was deliberately cooling his relations with Fu Qingyang. This attitude was deeply unsettling. Teng sat upright, her brows slightly furrowed, and said with measured words, "Master Yuan-Shi saved both me and Lingjun. Grandfather surely won't fail to assist us." Fu Qingyang nodded slightly. At that moment, a middle-aged man in a suit entered the living room and bowed, saying, "Fu Elder, the Senior Elder has invited you to the back garden." Officially called the back garden, it was in reality a stretch of primeval forest, home to deformed plants and animals that had evolved in unusual ways. Thick tree canopies hung down with vine-like tendrils that caught insects and small animals passing by. Swarms of red ants, no larger than a palm, surged through the forest, turning large animals into carcasses in their wake. A large bird, covered in steel-like feathers, stood on a trunk, its amber eyes fixed on the ants. Suddenly, it dove down and began feeding on them. There are also colossal creatures such as giant pythons, tigers, leopards, and elephants, though all have undergone certain deformations, differing markedly from their normal forms. Fu Qingyang traveled alone through the perilous, primitive forest, where vines, ant colonies, and even large animals alike reacted with alarm, fleeing him. At a freshwater pond, he encountered the Grand Elder of the Hundred Flowers Assembly. This was a monstrous being of human form—his outer appearance that of an elderly man, yet his feet were constantly moving root-like tendrils, firmly anchored into the ground. His hair consisted of thick black serpents, each as thick as a human finger, hissing and flicking their crests like water reeds, gently swaying. He wore a long, green robe, revealing hands that continuously shifted between webbed and clawed forms. "Grand Elder!" Fu Qingyang bowed respectfully. The headquarters' Ten Elders possess three defining traits: first, they are at the peak of the 9th-tier Sovereign rank; second, each wields a Sovereign-tier rule-based artifact; and third, each holds substantial authority. They represent the most powerful among the semi-divine, mid-tier spiritual realm travelers. Such a figure, Fu Qingyang was far from matching, even with the swordmaster's cloak. After all, he was merely a newly appointed Sovereign at the early stage of Level 7. "Cai Elder wishes to hold Yuanshiyuan Tianzun accountable to death, citing collusion with evil professions," said Miao Elder, calmly and warmly by the water pond. "The Five Elements Alliance has finally produced a true prodigy worthy of becoming its Grand Master—certainly, we cannot allow him to be ruined this way. If you wish to save Yuanshiyuan Tianzun's life, then you may return now. The other elders fully understand the situation and have their own judgment." Fu Qingyang shook his head. "I know he won't die, but he will pay an extremely heavy price. I cannot allow such a thing to happen." Miao Elder slowly added, "The Headquarters has been waiting for just such an opportunity to reprimand him—you understand my meaning." "Miao Elder, not everyone can be reprimanded. You must admit that some people are inherently resilient, firm, and will rather break than bend." "You keep talking about wanting to challenge Yuan Shi Tian Zun, yet you remain aloof, refusing to understand him. You are too arrogant," Fu Qingyang said seriously. "The arrogance of those in higher positions is the cradle of chaos, the poison of order, and the root of all evil in the world." Miao Long, calm and smiling, did not show any irritation. "The appeal of struggle lies in dividing interests. Therefore, knowing when to compromise and yield is the greatest wisdom in politics. What Cai Elder can offer is something you simply cannot provide." Fu Qingyang found himself unable to dispute this. Before absolute strength, no matter how many brilliant strategies or ingenious plans you devise, they all prove futile. At such times, choosing to compromise and retreat is precisely what a wise person should do. Throughout history, how many officials and generals who stubbornly resisted their superiors have ended up with favorable outcomes? The records of those demoted from the capital are ample examples. Compromise, patience, and steady ascent are the true path. "Since you have summoned me, it means I have something of value that you desire," Fu Qingyang said, his gaze steady. Master Miao smiled, "I heard that the Zhao family in Huadu recently auctioned several ancient artifacts from the Qin Dynasty." He glanced at Fu Qingyang. "Since I have a deep appreciation for Qin Dynasty relics, Fu Elder, how many do you have? I shall take as many as you wish." Fu Qingyang understood Master Miao's intent—return all the items taken from the Qin Feng Academy. For figures of this stature, many matters are settled by mutual agreement, and tangible evidence is often less crucial. After a moment's reflection, Fu Qingyang said, "I did have a number of collections previously, but I've already sold most of them. If Master Miao wishes, I can personally present the remaining few to you." Implied was that only a partial return was possible. Master Miao smiled gently, "Then keep them for yourself." The negotiation fell short. Fu Qingyang's expression darkened, and then heard Master Miao say, "Teng has reached marriageable age, yet still hasn't found a suitable match." "Master Miao's suggestion, then—is it that the Prime Origin Sovereign should marry Teng?" “No,” Master Miao glanced at him, his gaze steady upon this rising star of the next generation of elders, “it’s you who married Ting'er.” “….” In the lounge, Ling Jun anxiously waited, finally seeing Fu Qingyang return, his expression unchanged. “How did it go?” Ling Jun and Master Miao both rose at once. “It fell apart!” Fu Qingyang grabbed the white suit from the sofa and turned to leave immediately. “What? Your grandfather asked you to marry Ting'er?” On the winding mountain road leaving Fenglin Mountain, Ling Jun stared in disbelief. This was a path he had never imagined. “For me, women and emotions are merely meaningless burdens,” Fu Qingyang said coldly. It was clear he was deeply upset. “Yes, women only slow you down when you draw your sword—don’t think I’m being metaphorical,” Ling Jun sighed. “I’d be delighted to see our families grow closer, but you’re not exactly the type Ting'er likes.” “I know she has a fondness for the Magistrate,” Fu Qingyang replied. "The mage king is dead—why bring him up? Well, if we must pick someone from among the people I know..." Ling Jun thought for a moment, her mouth twitching. "Yuan Shi is exactly the kind of person Feng'er would have liked, though she still can't forget the mage king." "How about we go back and ask Grandpa, and see if Yuan Shi Tianzhen would be willing to marry Feng'er?" Ling Jun's eyes lit up. "I'd rather Yuan Shi leave the Wuxing Alliance." As her brother-in-law, Fu Qingyang coldly rejected the idea. ... Investigation Department, Interview Room. The bright, stark lights cast a lonely, silent glow. The soundproof door was closed, sealing out both sound and time. Zhang Yuanqing could no longer see the outside daylight, relying only on the clock mounted on the wall to gauge the time. It was now six in the morning. It was the third day since he had been brought to the Investigation Department. During this time, aside from eating, drinking, and using the restroom, he had sat in the interview room without a bed, a table, or a sofa—only a cold, rigid interrogation chair. In fact, he hadn't even gone to the restroom much—saints can go days without eating or drinking, having minimal dietary needs. In just another two hours, he would be taken to the "Highest Court of the Five Elements Alliance" for trial before the headquarters. The presiding judge was Cai, the Deputy Minister of Investigations. Elders from each regional branch would attend as jurors, while senior stewards from the major branches would serve as observers. The other nine elders from headquarters would also be present as observers. This indicated that Fu Qingyang's efforts were not yet fully effective. Zhang Yuanqing felt a heavy sense of weight in his heart, deeply realizing the immense power of the Ten Elders. Even under the premise that he had a strong case, Fu Qingyang, despite his skillful handling, still found himself under pressure from Cai Elder. It was no surprise that Fu Qingyang had longed to establish his presence at headquarters and join the Ten Elders—those were a completely different tier from ordinary elders. As a newly appointed elder, Fu Qingyang's foundation was still not yet solid, and it would be quite challenging for him to overcome Cai Elder's influence. However, Fu Qingyang’s efforts were far from wasted, as the matter had sparked widespread public interest and media attention, prompting the headquarters to invite senior stewards to represent mid- and lower-level members for the trial. The public sentiment was being actively amplified by Fu Qingyang. Originally, he had hoped to secure a live broadcast, but the headquarters firmly rejected the request, citing no precedent for such an arrangement. Furthermore, Fu Qingyang had clearly assured everyone that there would be no life-threatening risk, though the headquarters intended to use this occasion as a means of pressure, potentially requiring him to pay a price. The nature and extent of that price, however, would only become evident during the trial itself. Although the trial itself was merely a formality, with penalties and their severity already well-determined among the senior executives, the young gentleman would make his final efforts to minimize the consequences. As various thoughts swirled in his mind, the soundproof door of the interrogation room opened, and two well-dressed men approached, standing straight and confident. "It's time. We'll take you to the trial hall." They produced handcuffs, fastened them around Zhang Yuanqing, and gestured warmly to indicate they were ready to proceed.