Has Fu Qingyang arrived? Pan Zhixing’s brows furrowed, and he suddenly stood up. Xiaohou Tianyuan mused: “Who exactly is this Fu Qingyang?” The Fu family is a distinguished spiritual realm dynasty, one of the leading forces behind the White Tiger Army, and holds an unparalleled status across the entire Five Elements Alliance. They also control vast assets overseas—indeed, they are among the most powerful corporate magnates in the world. In terms of familial strength and financial resources, however, Xiaohou’s family falls noticeably short compared to Fu’s. Pan Zhixing reflected: “This person is exceptionally proud and gifted. I’ve heard that during his Elevated Stage, he once faced off directly against a Sage-level Evil Organization member—fought heroically—and held his ground for over an hour, which is truly remarkable. Though Fu Qingyang has only been stationed in Place Loonghai for under one year, and we have had limited interactions, he shows maturity beyond the typical prideful youth.” Xiaohou Tianyuan immediately felt reassured, smiling: “That’s exactly what I hoped—so long as he’s not a naïve young man, he won’t want to challenge our Xiaohou family over such a matter.” Pan Zhixing remained silent—he had already heard the growing footsteps approaching his office, and there were several of them. Xiaohou Tianyuan looked steadily at the now-opened office door. A group emerged into view: at the forefront stood a man dressed in crisp white suit, elegant and handsome, with a stylish short ponytail. To his left was someone whose hair was disheveled, dressed casually, with a lopsided gaze; on the right—his direct opponent—was Yuan Shi Tian Zun, the very person who had been threatening to challenge him. At present, Yuan Shi Tian Zun appeared to be fully supporting Fu Qingyang, like a loyal sycophant. You won’t last long, Xiaohou Tianyuan thought, his expression resolute. “Fu Bai Fu Chang!” Pan Zhixing stepped forward with a warm smile, “Why have you come so grandly to my office?” Fu Qingyang glanced at Xiaohou Tianyuan and replied: “To arrest someone!” Pan Zhixing smiled gently: “Who?” Fu Qingyang said nothing further. Just as the moment arrived, Zhang Yuanqing—his loyal aide—spoke up: “Xiaohou Tianyuan is accused of kidnapping, endangering public order—the evidence is solid. We intend to legally detain him.” Pan Zhixing’s expression darkened; he scoffed: “Is there room for discussion here?” He turned to Fu Qingyang and added with a smile: “Fu Bai Fu Chang, Xiaohou Tianyuan has already been arrested in my jurisdiction after injuring someone. As for the kidnapping incident, he admits full responsibility. According to regulations, this matter now falls squarely under my region’s portfolio.” Fu Qingyang responded calmly: “You expect me to follow rules? Then I inform you—today morning, the victim’s family reported the case to the Kangyang District Realm Walker unit. My team eliminated the kidnappers and rescued the hostages. By rule, then, *my* claim holds greater weight than yours.” Pan Zhixing shook his head: “I’ve already arrested him—I cannot hand him over now. If I escalate this to the Council of Elders, I’ll still hold my ground.” He knew in his heart that Fu Qingyang was truly justified—so he devised this move: use procedure to block procedure, creating a situation where both parties could endlessly debate. That’s how one operates in official circles—by leveraging rules effectively. At the side, Xiaohou Tianyuan added: “Fu Bai Fu Chang, I have already voluntarily stepped forward and am willing to accept any penalties you demand. What is your intention?” Seeing that Fu Qingyang remained silent, he smiled: “After all, there has been a long-standing business relationship between our two families—our lineages are well-known mutual allies. I’d even like to call you my younger brother.” His words clearly conveyed the message: really, do you intend to challenge our entire Xiaohou family over one ordinary person? Fu Qingyang didn’t look at him at all—he simply stared steadily at Pan Zhixing and said softly: “I’m not here to negotiate with you.” Pan Zhixing frowned: “Then what is your purpose?” Fu Qingyang opened his inventory panel and summoned a black flag, then tossed it with a smooth motion. It struck the table with a clear *ding*, settling firmly in front of Xiaohou Tianyuan. Xiaohou Tianyuan’s body trembled—his head bowed as if collapsing; muscles tightened and spasmed. His face was livid yet he could not move. “Fu Qingyang!” Pan Zhixing thundered, questioning: “Are you about to confront me?” With both hands pressed against his chest, a cascade of glowing green ripples spread outward from him, sweeping across the office floor and walls. Cracks appeared in the floors and walls—thick vines surged upward, sealing off windows and doors—and within moments, the entire office had become an enclosed wooden cage. Pan Zhixing huffed: “No one will leave this place today…” Vines grew from his body, delicate and flexible, curling and reaching out like touch-sensitive arms, weaving together into a full set of vine armor. Fu Qingyang then pulled out a bronze sword from the inventory panel—three feet two inches long, with eight faces on its blade, covered in layers of verdigris. This was clearly a sign that action had been taken—the Sage Stage Realm Walker would now have to act within this confined space. Could it affect us? Zhang Yuanqing’s heart tightened. He immediately looked toward Guan Ya, Ling Jun, and Bai Long—only to find these seasoned Realm Walkers calmly composed, utterly unruffled. Too calm… perhaps I’ve overestimated the strength of Sage-level practitioners? As he stared, a sharp streak of swordlight suddenly pierced his vision—his eyes instinctively closed. Then came a dull exhalation from behind. Zhang Yuanqing opened his eyes: Pan Zhixing now lay on the ground, draped in vine armor, with thick streams of blood flowing from his abdomen. “You may report me to the Council of Elders for unlawfully assaulting a colleague,” Fu Qingyang said, shaking the blade slightly, which still clung with fresh drops of blood, “but I will also file charges against you—covering up crimes and acting in corruption.” “I still have more to go.” His tone remained cold, his expression devoid of any disdain—calm as if a high-born sovereign were punishing a humble subject. What happened? Is Pan Zhixing truly a Sage? Did I overestimate the strength of the Sage level—or rather, did I overestimate *him* personally? Zhang Yuanqing was deeply astonished. He had long heard from Li Dongze and Guan Ya that Fu Qingyang possessed extraordinary talent—perhaps even the most promising candidate for promotion to Elder status in the Five Elements Alliance. But until now, he had lacked a clear concept of what such talent truly meant. Now—S Zhang Yuanqing suddenly had an unmistakable sense of it: indeed, a true natural prodigy. That explained why Guan Ya and Ling Jun appeared so composed. Xiaohou Tianyuan, who sat slumped in the sofa, now looked pale. Fu Qingyang didn’t look at Pan Zhixing—he simply walked to the coffee table, withdrew the black flag, and returned it to his inventory panel. Xiaohou Tianyuan immediately leapt up, struggling: “Fu Qingyang! I’m a trusted representative of the Xiaohou family—I truly intend to oppose you!” Fu Qingyang raised the sword handle and struck him on the head. Xiaohou Tianyuan stepped back—avoiding the impact. *Crack!* The blow landed heavily, sending intense pain through his skull; consciousness faded instantly—he only had one thought before he lost awareness: *I clearly avoided that strike.* Fu Qingyang then turned and walked away: “Take him away!” … Official Forum. Reposted: Shock! Xiaohou Tianyuan Accused of Kidnapping, Endangering Public Order—Arrested by Fu Bai Fu Chang of Kangyang District By evening, a post originating from the Taiyi Gate Official Forum sparked lively discussion among Realm Walkers across the Five Elements Alliance. The post described in detail the unfolding events: the Kangyang District unit, led by Yuan Shi Tian Zun, received an official report—claiming Xiaohou Tianyuan had kidnapped relatives and employed unscrupulous means. A principled Yuan Shi Tian Zun responded with determination, overcoming numerous challenges to eliminate the kidnappers and rescue the hostages. Subsequently, Fu Qingyang led the arrest of Xiaohou Tianyuan. Notably, the post was authored by Yuan Ting. “Kidnapping? Honestly—Xiaohou family is growing more reckless.” “Hasn’t this always been true? How many spiritual realm families remain humble and courteous? Only now have they dared to challenge us in Place Loonghai.” “Fu Bai Fu Chang isn’t being gentle—he’s long overdue for disciplinary action. The Xiaohou family has consistently relied on its relationships with senior leadership, neglecting the very rules that should govern them.” “Above—be cautious. Don’t let your colleagues come to check your water bills at night.” “This Yuan Shi Tian Zun is interesting—I like him.” “Young people are always full of energy, but I’m afraid he’ll face retaliation from the Xiaohou family—this would be a strong performance for a Realm Walker, but likely won’t move Xiaohou Tianyuan himself.” “If Xiaohou family retaliates against Yuan Shi Tian Zun—that’s an open declaration of war. We just don’t know how this story will unfold.” “I’ve heard that several Zhixing officers in Loonghai have already filed formal complaints against Fu Bai Fu Chang, requesting a Council hearing to judge him.” “Judging him? On what grounds?” “I understand—our local Zhixing officer, Pan Zhixing, has been injured by Fu Bai Fu Chang.” “This… that’s unexpected.” After dinner, Zhang Yuanqing read through the forum comments carefully and quietly closed his screen. The evening meal had been unusually quiet—the aunt was on night duty, so was her cousin; only Grandmother, Grandfather, and he remained at home. Before dinner, Uncle had come to invite him for a dance competition—only to be gently sent back by Grandmother. The two dancers were comfortable with the encounter, but Grandmother found it awkward. “Whether or not Fu Bai Fu Chang can manage this… I’ll just have to wait and see,” Zhang Yuanqing said quietly as he lay in bed, anticipating the final outcome of the meeting. Following the arrest of Xiaohou Tianyuan, pressure began mounting—thanks to Xiaohou Xin’s efforts, numerous officials connected with the Xiaohou family—including Zhixing officers and Taiyi Gate unit leaders—had all contacted Fu Qingyang, either requesting mediation or expressing concern. According to Guan Ya, members of the Fu family had also reached out to request that Xiaohou Tianyuan be released—but the elder representatives at the Fu household had not yet made a formal statement. Actually, the person most personally affected by this matter wasn’t Fu Qingyang—it was Zhang Yuanqing himself. Yet it was Fu Qingyang who bore the full weight of responsibility. Guan Ya explained: “You’re his younger brother—he’ll surely protect you!” Zhang Yuanqing felt deeply moved—“Is that really so generous from Fu Bai Fu Chang?” Guan Ya replied: “No—not at all. He simply acts with pride.” … Luxurious villa, second floor. Fu Qingyang held a glass of wine, seated on the balcony, enjoying the gentle evening breeze. Across the circular table sat Ling Jun, who was crouched in a single armchair. “By the way,” Ling Jun said, “Pan Zhixing is from the Bǎi Huā Association—he’s been somewhat dismissive of you.” Fu Qingyang replied: “Oh—I see what you mean—did he participate in shielding Xiaohou Tianyuan?” Ling Jun erupted: “Goodness! I thought you were Yue Fei, not Qin Hui!” He picked a piece of honeydew with his toothpick and sipped it while reflecting: “Your method of securing influence is quite effective—Yuan Shi will surely become one of your loyal allies.” Fu Qingyang frowned slightly: “That’s what I call *governing through virtue*.” He disliked the term “securing influence” as overly transactional, yet he didn’t feel compelled to explain. Ling Jun remained crouched on the sofa, holding her phone with two fingers, checking the time: “There are five minutes until the meeting begins. Have you thought about how to handle them? The Fu family elder council has not held any formal responsibility—good news—but they won’t likely step in as advocates for you now. Without the support of the Fu family, those others may no longer fear your authority—not that you’re just a Zhixing officer, after all.” Ling Jun gave her eyebrows a suggestive lift: “Would you like me to assist you? Just call me ‘Brother’?” Fu Qingyang replied coldly: “You don’t truly want to help me.” By nature, he would never address someone as ‘brother,’ and Ling Jun fully understood this—thus, she offered no real enthusiasm. Ling Jun sighed: “The charge of kidnapping won’t be sufficient to bring Xiaohou Tianyuan down—the Xiaohou pool still resides in Loonghai. He is the grandfather of Xiaohou Tianyuan. As long as he remains upright, Xiaohou Tianyuan will remain unharmed.” Xiaohou Pool had previously engaged directly with the Master of Zhishake Palace. Fu Qingyang did not dispute this—it was a fact. He glanced at his wristwatch and stood up: “I’ll go to the meeting.” In the study, the tall and graceful Rabbit Woman had already opened the computer for him and logged into the conference platform. The Five Elements Alliance has a rule—small meetings are held in person; large ones use computers. Large gatherings have a greater risk of being perceived as significant news events—risking being targeted by Evil Organizations with powerful strategies—though exceptions exist, such as the Taiyi Gate’s annual reporting sessions and the Grand Council of Elders. At the appointed time, Zhixing officers began connecting online. The computer screen displayed: 22 attendees—two-thirds of the Loonghai Branch representatives were present. This meeting was initiated by several Zhixing officers from the Loonghai Branch collectively requesting a hearing at the Council of Elders—the kind of session that occurs in Loonghai several times each year. Such meetings are usually initiated proactively by Elders, but when challenges arise and decisions cannot be reached, Zhixing officers may submit formal requests for a large-scale meeting. The theme of this meeting was to address the actions of Xiaohou family heirs, as well as Pan Zhixing’s complaint regarding Fu Qingyang’s intentional harm to colleagues—while Fu Qingyang had filed charges against Pan Zhixing for protecting offenders and engaging in misconduct. All participants’ microphones were muted. The hosting Elder, Teddys, spoke firmly: “I give you just fifteen minutes—I will expect a clear result by then.” Among the Loonghai Branch’s leadership group are five Elders—below them lie regional Zhixing officers—and below those are representatives from each Realm Walker unit. As one of the five senior elders, Elder Tedi didn't mind the fate of a direct descendant from a Spirit Realm family—she wanted to avoid wasting too much time on this matter. "Pan Wudi, you go first," said Elder Tedi, opening up Pan's microphone. "Elder, Xiaohou Tianyuan injured someone within my jurisdiction. I arrested him strictly according to regulations. Fu Qingyang led a force that stormed my office and nearly killed me. Under the Five Elements Alliance’s rules, anyone who harms a colleague must be executed." Several of the officers immediately began typing in support, demanding strict punishment for Fu Qingyang. Elder Tedi then activated Fu Qingyang's voice privileges: "Fu Qingyang, what would you like to say?" "All I have to say is written down in my report," Fu Qingyang replied calmly. Elder Tedi said solemnly: "You knew Xiaohou Tianyuan had already reported his case, yet still seized him, ignoring the Five Elements Alliance's procedures—this is a fact, isn’t it?" "No," Fu Qingyang responded with a cold tone. Elder Tedi closed his microphone and asked Pan Wudi: "Pan Wudi, tell me now—Xiaohou Tianyuan was injured in your jurisdiction, yet he voluntarily confessed to the kidnapping case. Is it because you’re so eminent that he personally respects you?" "Xiaohou Tianyuan realized he had made a mistake," said Pan Wudi. Fu Qingyang gave a quiet snort of amusement. Elder Tedi’s tone grew colder: "Internal meeting—no more delays. Before Xiaohou Tianyuan reported himself, the hostage had already been rescued. His decision to report was purely for self-protection—that's my judgment. Fu Qingyang has accused you of embezzlement and corruption, shielding offenders. Pan Wudi, I need an explanation from you." "Nothing of that sort exists," said Pan Wudi firmly. "How will you withstand the investigation?" muttered Elder Tedi. Pan Wudi remained silent. The pace of typing among the officers slowed considerably. Elder Tedi continued: "Since both of you have made mistakes, let’s each receive fifty strokes of discipline—on the black constant case we’ll continue investigating. As for your respective matters, I'll settle those later. For now, I’d like to hear your recommendations regarding Xiaohou Tianyuan's handling." Immediately, seven or eight officers requested their microphones. "Elder, the person held hostage was a family member of Zhishake Palace—though he made an error, there was no intent to cause harm; it was only meant to draw out his target. A lighter penalty is appropriate." "Elder, Xiaohou Tianyuan remains a true descendant of the Xiaohou Family. As long as no major consequences have arisen, a mitigated penalty is justified—let him compensate the victims and gain their forgiveness, with detention for about ten or fifteen days." "Kidnapping is unacceptable—it should be penalized. A month-long detention would suffice." Elder Tedi thought deeply. Though he held decision-making authority, it was actually the officers who carried out the day-to-day work—his judgment had to reflect their interests. Moreover, several members of the Fu family, who operated outside the core of the clan, had privately reached out to him, subtly expressing a preference for a more restrained approach—preferably with leniency in handling the case. Yet even a month was seen as insufficient to gain full public endorsement. Elder Tedi said calmly: "Xiaohou Tianyuan violated the law by instigating kidnapping. He shall be detained for two months." Two months… While this wasn’t exactly what Pan Wudi and his colleagues had hoped for, it was acceptable—like a period of personal reflection and renewal. "Elder, I have something to say!" Fu Qingyang typed in response. Elder Tedi opened his microphone: "You have five minutes." What else could he possibly do? The officers under Pan Wudi exchanged puzzled glances. Fu Qingyang spoke steadily, with neither urgency nor haste: "Based on my investigation, I’ve gathered numerous criminal records involving Xiaohou Tianyuan. In February this year, leveraging the strength of his family, he pressured several coastal provincial enterprises to purchase shares at significantly discounted prices. "In November last year, he colluded with senior leaders of local state-owned enterprises to seize national assets. In August last year, he committed three cases of rape—two were resolved by paying off victims, while in one instance, the victim refused reconciliation, and Xiaohou Tianyuan arranged for captured Realm Walkers to be murdered. "Furthermore, multiple individuals have reported that he privately recruited wild Realm Walkers, using them as enforcers to carry out illegal acts—some of whom are underage girls, kept within his inner circle for personal enjoyment." "I have detailed documentation, evidence, and real-name allegations from the affected parties," Fu Qingyang added. The room fell into a moment of silence. Pan Wudi and the other officers felt suddenly chilled—amazed and angered. How had Fu Qingyang managed to uncover such an extensive record so swiftly, with tangible proof? In that instant, their minds flashed to one conclusion: The Xiaohou Family itself! A family member who has long been a hidden threat—undeniably, someone from within. No outsider could have access to such detailed records of Xiaohou Tianyuan’s misconduct. Had he been preparing for this confrontation all along? Had he quietly cultivated alliances among other branches of the Xiaohou Family, gathering evidence in advance? Now... it was over. "I'll copy all the materials over to you shortly," Fu Qingyang added. As soon as these words were spoken, those who had remained silent throughout began to speak—requesting strict disciplinary action against Xiaohou Tianyuan, as if they had been preparing for this moment in advance. Elder Tedi paused and then asked: "Are there any others who would like to speak?" Only when Xiaohou Chih himself stepped forward did the officers realize that the meeting’s momentum had shifted irrevocably—Pan Wudi and his colleagues chose silence, knowing it was now clear that the outcome was sealed. "I will verify all the evidence," Elder Tedi said. "In the meantime, Xiaohou Tianyuan shall be placed under supervision by Fu Qingyang. The meeting is adjourned!" ... "Is the meeting over?" Back in his room, Zhang Yuanqing read through the message from Fu Qingyang with growing intensity. Fu Qingyang mentioned that the criminal records and documentation for Xiaohou Tianyuan had been submitted—though sentencing was still pending, it would take several years to finalize. But subtly, Hundred-man Commander Pan Wudi indicated that Xiaohou Tianyuan’s grandfather, Xiaohou Chih, currently resides in Place. Although under control by the Five Elements Alliance, he remained a ticking time bomb. Zhang Yuanqing had been advised to pay close attention to personal safety and avoid going into the Kangyang District Police Office until further notice. "Besides Xiaohou Chih, there’s also Xiaohou Xin—his son has been sent to prison. Should he react with urgency and seek retaliation, I will be in serious danger," Zhang Yuanqing reflected. "I need to connect with Zhishake Palace—and deliver a decisive blow to the Xiaohou Family." Thinking about this, Zhang Yuanqing dialed Wang Qian’s Smartphone. The voice that answered was from the Dian-Crazy Saint: “Wait just a moment.” The Palace Master had gone off on an Instance assignment and hadn’t returned—contacting her proved difficult. If she were stuck in the Instance… well, that would be quite a challenge. Zhang Yuanqing murmured under his breath, then settled back to sleep. At around four a.m., he was awakened by his Smartphone’s ringtone. The caller displayed Wang Qian's name. Zhang Yuanqing sat upright—his drowsiness lifted instantly—and answered the call. The Dian-Crazy Saint spoke with evident enthusiasm: "Our Palace Master has returned. She would like to see you."