Songhai City, a scenic suburban hotel with excellent music. Wang Qian and three companions from Zhishake Palace have relocated their hidden base here. This suburban hotel is one of Zhishake Palace’s key outposts in Songhai City, operated by a member of the palace. Many civilian organizations often establish hotels and restaurants throughout the city—more convenient than private homes for accommodating large groups or hosting meetings, since these facilities provide a solid operational base and reduce concerns about surveillance equipment. Of course, this strategy works well only during periods of relative peace. When facing large-scale official raids, hotels and restaurants are actually more likely to be exposed, as security officers systematically inspect each one. The manpower available from the Five Elements Alliance is insufficient to conduct such an extensive sweep across Songhai’s major hotels—only the Municipal Authority can manage this volume of work. Yet Wang Qian and Qingdian Dadi believe that although the Xiaohou Family has a broad network and maintains close ties with official institutions, it lacks the authority to command or mobilize the Municipal Authority. The Municipal Authority and the Five Elements Alliance are peer organizations operating in partnership—the former manages social order while the latter oversees coordination among spirit realm pilgrims. Even within the Five Elements Alliance, no formal authority exists to direct or mandate actions from the municipal system—let alone a single spiritual family like Xiaohou. Inside the suite, Qingdian Dadi lies on the sofa asleep, while a lively woman in jeans and a black crop top sits cross-legged before the television, fully immersed in her game. A pale figure named "Heaven and Earth Are Unkind" wears headphones and quietly listens to music. Wang Qian stands by the window observing outside activity, frequently checking his smartphone. He constantly repeats to himself: not so fast, not so fast… even if Yuan Shi Tian Zun is willing to assist, it will still take time. Yet he still can't help but keep glancing at his phone. "Relax," Heaven and Earth Are Unkind opens her eyes, looks at Wang Qian by the window, then resumes her well-worn strategy of being a loyal protector—like a child who insists on being rescued if ever hurt. Impatient and passionate… Wang Qian shakes his head. This personality is exceptionally bold: deeply appreciative of small gestures but fiercely determined to exact vengeance upon any slight—often taking extreme actions that result in personal sacrifice. Such traits are relatively rare even within Zhishake Palace itself. Wang Qian finally sets down his phone, quietly gazing out the window. Suddenly, a soft chime echoes—the sound of notification—and he is startled, quickly lifting his phone to check. "Your sister is safe." As he reads the message content, Wang Qian's expression grows suddenly animated—so thrilled that he can hardly believe it, exclaiming: "Head, head! Yuan Shi Tian Zun has responded!" Qingdian Dadi jolts and wakes up startled. The three companions gather around. Qingdian Dadi stares at the phone screen but expresses a serious tone: "Something's wrong—there’s definitely something amiss. Even if he agrees to help, it would take far too little time to rescue your sister." The woman with the independent spirit frowns and adds: "Exactly. In such short time, finding your sister is already difficult—unless he knows exactly where she is. If so, then this person must be an ally of Xiaohou Tianyuan." She looks slightly disappointed. Wang Qian thinks for a moment, edits the message: "Is that true?" A few seconds later, another chime—Yuan Shi Tian Zun responds with a voice clip. Wang Qian swiftly taps to play it: "Wang Qian, I’ve been rescued by municipal officers and am now heading toward the Kangyang District Municipal Office." It's Wang Qian’s voice. Wang Qian’s eyes instantly glisten—after a full day of anxiety, this news finally eases his mind. Is she truly safe? How efficient! Qingdian Dadi is surprised. He had proposed Wang Qian reach out to Yuan Shi Tian Zun precisely for his official standing—believing that even if no immediate rescue could be made, some useful intelligence might be gathered and the Xiaohou Family could be counterbalanced. Then Zhishake Palace would develop its own response plan based on Yuan Shi Tian Zun’s updates. Now, he had accomplished this without any prior negotiation—a mere young talent? Is it really not a descendant of a major figure from the Five Elements Alliance? The independent woman sighs and pats Wang Qian on the shoulder: "Now you can relax—Yuan Shi Tian Zun is quite reliable. You should follow up with your home office to confirm whether your sister has indeed been rescued." Just as they are speaking, the phone rings—the caller is Yuan Shi Tian Zun. Wang Qian immediately turns to Qingdian Dadi, seeking guidance. After a brief pause, he gives a slight nod. Wang Qian answers the call and tentatively asks: "Yuan Shi Tian Zun?" But instead, it's Wang Qian’s voice that comes through: "Wang Qian, I'm fine now—where are you? Why haven’t you gone to work? The people who kidnapped me seem to be searching for you. Have you taken out a high-interest loan?" Her tone is urgent and anxious—repeating her questions over and over. "Don’t worry," Wang Qian reassures, hearing the voice of a young man on the other end: "Hand me your phone…" Then Yuan Shi Tian Zun says: "Now isn’t the time for small talk, Wang Qian—I must see your superior." Since Wang Qian is present, he deliberately omits mentioning “Zhishake Palace.” Wang Qian looks at Qingdian Dadi and asks: "Why?" "During my rescue of your sister, I was exposed. Xiaohou Family will certainly hold this against me—this matter should be your responsibility," Zhang Yuanqing says calmly. "And furthermore, I can save you once—but not twice. What if they target your other family members? Or others in the organization? How then shall we respond?" "We are now truly interdependent—like ants on one rope—and it’s time for us to counterattack. Of course," he adds with a smile, "if you're still weak and only wish to retreat quietly, then I’ll simply have said nothing." Wang Qian holds the phone tightly, looks at his companions—Qingdian Dadi hesitates, while the independent woman whispers: "I think we should arrange some communication—let me handle it." Such moments reveal how much a person’s personal relationship matters. "No," Qingdian Dadi says firmly. "I’ll take this conversation myself—I believe I can manage interpersonal dynamics well." She picks up the phone, deliberately lowering her tone to make her voice deeper and more urgent: "Yuan Shi Tian Zun, you don’t need to use any dramatic techniques.” "What?" Zhang Yuanqing is visibly startled. "I am Qingdian Dadi—the superior of Master Shendian." "Oh my—what a strong title! I truly appreciate it," Zhang Yuanqing praises. Qingdian Dadi is momentarily stunned, then smiles: "It’s actually quite fitting—I’ve thought about this name for a long time… uh, well, let's get back to the point. I understand your concern—but until the Palace Master issues an official directive, we won’t take any action." "Alright—then I’ll personally handle matters with the Xiaohou Family—fighting not just for survival but to initiate transformation. That is my strategy—your organization will be left behind. You can adjust your names later," Zhang Yuanqing says confidently. "Pish!" Heaven and Earth Are Unkind bursts into anger. "We certainly have our own response plans—but they remain under the control of the Palace Master. Since her recent confrontation with Xiaohou Family’s chief enforcer, she has not reappeared." Qingdian Dadi glares at her impatiently. Indeed—Zhishake Palace members are consistently passionate and stubborn—they claim dramatic techniques fail to resonate. Zhang Yuanqing smiles, immediately asking: "What are your specific strategies?" Guan Ya analyzed that the Xiaohou Family's persistent pursuit of Zhishake Palace seems unusual—indicating something is truly amiss. Qingdian Dadi takes a deep breath: "We believe the Palace Master has entered an instance—a temporary mission—and thus we’ve instructed our team to remain hidden. As for specific strategies, however—we don’t know what they are. And even if we did, we can't reveal them just yet. Allow me then to make regular contact with the Palace Master—reporting on this matter, seeking either compensation or collaboration—depending on her willingness to engage you. We cannot simply act without prior coordination." Ah? Don’t involve me—I’d rather speak to Fu Qingyang—someone who doesn't have a flair for drama… Zhang Yuanqing feels a little intimidated, though she maintains composure: "I’m really excited!" After hanging up, she feels slightly relieved. This situation has now firmly placed her at odds with the Xiaohou family—certainly they will retaliate. Though she holds notable achievements, the Xiaohou Family may not act openly—but can certainly employ behind-the-scenes tactics and insidious measures. Therefore, it is essential to eliminate both Xiaohou parents—at minimum—to ensure they never recover. Yet relying solely on the Five Elements Alliance remains risky—due to overlapping interests and deep interdependencies. Therefore, a dual strategy must now be implemented—seeking assistance from external forces. Hence, she has insisted on establishing direct dialogue with Wang Qian’s superior at Zhishake Palace. … "He's done," Qingdian Dadi returns the phone to Wang Qian. The woman looks at him briefly, then at both Wang Qian and Heaven and Earth Are Unkind—with an expression of growing distrust. "What now?" Qingdian Dadi frowns. "So—who really holds the upper hand?" she asks with a neutral tone. The three—Qingdian Dadi, Wang Qian, and Heaven and Earth Are Unkind—look at each other in silence. … Zhang Yuanqing turns to her neighbor—the young woman who sits upright, hands firmly holding the steering wheel. "Whatever you hear today, don’t let anyone else know—or your brother will surely perish." Wang Qian hesitates but finally nods. Indeed—she is quite attentive. Should she meet the mother now? Perhaps later—after all, ordinary people might be overwhelmed by a spiritual being and faint right away. Better to keep her focused on driving. Ah—and now I hold control of the Spirit Scroll. Once this matter with the Xiaohou Family is resolved, it’s time to begin collecting materials and cultivating that young one—the Little Comedian. With these matters settled, Wang Qian eagerly opens his inventory panel as they approach the Municipal Office—ready to inspect his prize items. In a spot not visible to Wang Qian, he removes a crimson pair of gloves and holds them gently in his hands. [Name: Brawler’s Gloves] [Type: Weapon] [Function: Burn, Speed, Explosion] [Description: Once cherished by a powerful Fire Master, these gloves have gradually absorbed the strength and boldness of their wearer over long use. They now accumulate power through repeated impacts and release it in bursts.] [Note: An explosion is art—what cannot be resolved with an explosion? Then just explode again.] Zhang Yuanqing feels deeply satisfied. A wonderful asset! Finally, I have an AoE (area-of-effect) capability—bridging the gap of my role as a rogue, and thanks to the vitality of Night Wandering Deity, even multiple explosions can be fully sustained. Yet this comes at a cost—the gloves require boldness and risk of self-sacrifice during combat. The latter is manageable—he can accept repeated damage from explosions. The former, however, remains a challenge—when fighting, he often acts without thoughtful consideration and becomes vulnerable to surprise attacks. "Yet as long as I use them like the steady gem—the precious pearl—only at critical moments—I can manage that cost effectively." Indeed—success in life comes not just from wealth accumulation but through frequent conflict and upheaval. Without moral value constraints, spirit realm pilgrims might be perpetually engaged in warfare. Next, he checks his attributes panel and reviews his reputation score—he then chuckles to himself. His reputation has remained unchanged. Among spirit realm pilgrims, combat is not deducted from one’s moral score—but when members of the same organization fight, if a member with a reputation score is killed, the attacker's own reputation is reduced. Once a reputation score reaches zero, it is then deducted against their moral value. His reputation remains flat—indicating that during this period, none of his four team members have defeated any representatives from the Evil Organization. These individuals are truly societal parasites—worthless in impact. After about fifteen minutes, the car enters the Municipal Office building. Zhang Yuanqing instructs Wang Qian to park the vehicle at a glass-fronted facility and then steps out, entering the office premises. On the second floor, he sees seven or eight spirit realm pilgrims not affiliated with the organization—among them are the elegant Qingteng in a cheongsam and the stalwart Bai Long. During their journey, Guan Ya had already informed him that Fu Qingyang is waiting at the Kangyang District Municipal Office. "Could you please bring the bodies of the kidnappers from downstairs?" Zhang Yuanqing gently nods to Qingteng before glancing at Wang Tai’s visibly uncomfortable expression—then proceeds to Li Dongze's office. "Knock, knock!" He taps on the glass door. "Enter," comes Fu Qingyang’s clear and composed voice. As he pushes open the glass door, he finds himself in a spacious office where Fu Qingyang is seated at the desk formerly occupied by Li Dongze—on the sofa is Guan Ya, the tall and graceful Ling Jun, and an old acquaintance. Yuan Ting! Still alive—good to know that Master Sun hasn’t been caught during her instance. Zhang Yuanqing mentally remarks, then turns to Fu Qingyang: "I’ve brought Wang Qian and the bodies of the kidnappers." Fu Qingyang nods calmly: "I have already dispatched personnel to summon Xiaohou Tianyuan. As soon as we secure concrete evidence, I will proceed with detention proceedings." Speaking, he looked toward Yuan Ting, who rose to his feet and said with a touch of sentiment: “We’ll have to ask for spirit insights again, Fu Bai Fu Chang—better make sure you provide some financial support.” Fu Qingyang replied calmly: “That’s settled. I hope the support doesn’t turn into an inheritance by the time it comes through.” Yuan Ting's face stiffened instantly and he turned toward Zhang Yuanqing, his voice full of heartfelt regret: “Everything has stemmed from you—now you’re asking for support as well.” Well, then—I’ll burn money to meet your expectations… Zhang Yuanqing murmured quietly. Turning to Fu Qingyang, he added: “Hundred-man Commander, there are strong fighters among the kidnappers—do we really need me to seek out spirit insights?” The implication was clear: it wasn’t easy to defeat a seasoned adversary; by doing so, he had exposed part of his own strategic reserves. He knew Fu Qingyang was aware that he possessed rule-type props. Fu Qingyang said calmly: “Captain Yuan is diligent and upright—let him conduct the spirit insights, then.” Is this a reference to me? Zhang Yuanqing didn’t speak further. A few minutes later, Yuan Ting returned with pale cheeks, delivering his report in a steady voice: “The kidnappers are pilgrims from the Xiaohou Family—they abducted Wang Qian’s sister, and it was specifically orchestrated by Xiaohou Tianyuan.” As captain of Taiyi Gate, Yuan Ting’s statement carried weight on behalf of the entire institution. Then, with a complex expression, he looked at Zhang Yuanqing: “You’ve already slain a third-level Fire Master—such a strong performance right from the start! Truly exceptional. A real oddity.” Indeed, he had not mentioned the Divine Object—the Red Dance Shoes—at all. Ling Jun narrowed her eyes and smiled gently: “Isn’t that precisely what makes someone a talent? I’ve heard about this case as well, Yuan Shi—your performance has been excellent. I admire young people with integrity. But do you know what the greatest fear of a true talent is?” Well, not exactly without a girlfriend… Zhang Yuanqing smiled and replied: “What’s that?” “Early death!” Ling Jun sipped her tea before continuing: “Do you know how to avoid early death?” Another attempt at drawing me into this network… with the superior officer observing quietly, Zhang Yuanqing thought carefully and politely declined: “A young, early passing?” Ling Jun choked slightly, coughing: “No—find a strong ally. Join Taiyi Gate—I’ll protect you, and the Xiaohou Family won’t dare to retaliate.” Fu Qingyang’s gaze toward Zhang Yuanqing now carried a more satisfied tone; at the same time, he cast a cold, critical glance at Ling Jun. “Knock-knock!” At that moment, the glass door of the office was struck again. Fu Qingyang glanced over: “Enter.” A young man dressed in a black t-shirt entered and stopped before the desk, speaking softly: “Xiaohou Tianyuan has been arrested.” Fu Qingyang raised an eyebrow. “By whom?” The young man replied: “By Pang Zhixian of Fenghua District—just now, Xiaohou Tianyuan fought someone in Fenghua and was taken into custody. After investigation, he confessed to additional criminal activities—including this kidnapping case.” Hearing the exchange, Zhang Yuanqing felt a deep sense of unease, sensing the complexity emerging. According to the internal regulations of the Five Elements Alliance, to prevent competition over credit for achievements, any incident within a jurisdiction is the responsibility of that jurisdiction—the one who discovers and investigates holds primary accountability. Pang Zhixian of Fenghua District has “discovered” this case—so in principle, he should bear full responsibility. However, Zhang Yuanqing had participated earlier in the investigation and had a direct complainant, which created ambiguity over ownership. Yet that wasn’t the most pressing issue. The critical point was that Xiaohou Tianyuan himself injured someone in Fenghua District and now is under arrest—this event clearly belongs to Fenghua District’s jurisdiction. Thus, Fenghua can delay action on this matter, using investigation as a justification to protect Xiaohou Tianyuan. Then, they could gradually shift the focus of the kidnapping case toward Kangyang District for claim and dominance. Ultimately, it would be essential that Xiaohou Family not fall into the hands of Kangyang District—once this strategic depth is secured, the family will have ample time to mount its operations. This sequence of maneuvers demonstrates a masterful understanding of the rules. As long as the Xiaohou father and son remain unremoved, their consequences will be endless. Should the Five Elements Alliance fail to resolve it, then collaboration with Zhishake Palace becomes inevitable… Zhang Yuanqing’s expression grew slightly heavier. “Fu Bai Fu Chang—what should we do now?” Fu Qingyang glanced at him: “Was the complainant one of your direct contacts?” “Yes!” “Did that happen before Xiaohou Tianyuan injured someone in Fenghua?” “Yes!” Fu Qingyang replied calmly: “Then go and take them into custody.” “But…” Zhang Yuanqing thought, “the people are already in Fenghua District—how do we proceed? Do we demand their immediate transfer by force?” Fu Qingyang rose from his seat and walked slowly toward him, his deep, tranquil gaze fixed on the younger man. He spoke gently: “When conflicting rules exist—and both parties feel they have a valid claim—it is always the one with greater strength who holds sway. Remember this point. Additionally…” His noble, sculpted face took on a serious tone as he added: “Once you’ve established an opponent, you must eliminate them without hesitation—even if elders intervene, you will have to crush their authority.” Fu Qingyang turned and walked out of the room, his steps slow yet resolute, leaving behind a solid, upright silhouette: “Come with me—to take custody of those people.” … Fenghua District Public Security Bureau. In the west wing of the public security building, in a bright, well-lit office, on an elegant sofa, Xiaohou Tianyuan held a pair of chestnuts in his left hand and sipped from a porcelain cup with steady motions. “Such a small item—comfortable to hold, I suppose you’ve been playing with it for some time?” “If you like, I’ll give it to you.” Pang Zhixian smiled—a well-dressed man in a leather coat with an inner white judo shirt underneath. Tall and broad-shouldered, he carried a serious and stern presence even when not smiling. “Alright—let’s not disturb his personal preferences!” Xiaohou Tianyuan set down the chestnuts and cup, smoothed his suit collar, and said: “There are two matters I’d like to entrust you with. We’ve learned from the Xie family that after their clan was wiped out, its remaining members scattered across various regions—Zhishake Palace Master was among them, sent to Songhai at that time. At the time, she was still a child—not yet a Realm Walker—and it wasn’t clear whether she would eventually become one. During the initial settlement process, details of her identity weren’t particularly well protected. I’d like you to investigate the Songhai Municipal Archive for records related to her. Currently, we can confirm that her age falls between 24 and 27 years old. Additionally, I’ve consulted with senior family members who have provided sketches of key figures from that original clan—please use facial recognition techniques to compare.” “This is quite difficult,” Pang Zhixian shook his head, believing the request unlikely given Songhai’s vast population—over two million permanent residents and over one million local household records. “Of course—it’s difficult, so we have ample time.” Xiaohou Tianyuan smiled. “Regardless of whether this task succeeds or fails, you may select any prop at the level of Sage Stage from the Xiaohou Family’s repository.” Pang Zhixian smiled warmly: “That sounds acceptable.” Xiaohou Tianyuan continued: “The second matter—I’d like you to retrieve documentation about Yuan Shi Tianzun of Kangyang District. I need to uncover his real identity.” Pang Zhixian frowned: “Do you intend to retaliate against him?” Xiaohou Tianyuan lifted the cup and took a long sip, his expression now stern: “Since he’s opposing me, he is my adversary—any means may be employed against an enemy.” He also harbored another fact he refused to acknowledge—the young man was exceptionally strong, powerful enough to inspire both admiration and jealousy. After pausing for several seconds, Pang Zhixian spoke with measured seriousness: “You should handle this as thoroughly as possible—if discovered, I may not be able to protect you from scrutiny. The identity of Yuan Shi Tianzun is currently inaccessible—access requires senior-level permissions. I offer two recommendations. First, pressure his superior, Li Dongze—who undoubtedly knows the details of Yuan Shi Tianzun’s real identity. However, in doing so, you’d have to eliminate Li Dongze as well.” “That would effectively signal to everyone that I intend to kill that young man,” Xiaohou Tianyuan interjected, dismissing this suggestion immediately and asking: “What about the second?” Pang Zhixian responded: “Approximately two weeks ago, Yuan Shi Tianzun killed an Enchantment Demon at Songhai University—the Demon had just escaped capture and is currently untraceable. It’s likely that Yuan Shi Tianzun met him during his time in Songhai.” Xiaohou Tianyuan brightened: “So he’s not yet old—he must be a student at Songhai University?” Pang Zhixian held the cup, sipping and speaking: “Then it will fall to you to verify that on your own.” They exchanged warm smiles. At this moment, Pang Zhixian furrowed his brows and looked toward the office entrance. A few seconds later, hurried footsteps sounded—then a formal official pilgrim pushed open the door, his face pale, speaking urgently: “Pang Zhixian, the executive officer from Kangyang District has arrived with her team.”