The Master of Zhishake Palace lifted her gaze, glanced at him briefly, and smiled gently: “Five Elements Alliance has been searching for Black Uncommon ever since—to secure the Skill and the Documentation. Why do you go out of your way? Let me guess—perhaps you yourself desire the Documentation, and wish to prevent it from falling into Five Elements Alliance’s hands.” As she spoke, she tilted her head, gazing up at the ceiling, adopting a childish, innocent posture and added: “But you’re just a minor figure, right? Why would you care so much about the Documentation? Oh, that’s quite strange—so very strange…” Zhang Yuanqing’s lips twitched. He replied: “Everyone has secrets. You don’t need to know them—you may simply choose to withhold them altogether. The decision rests entirely with you.” Thus, he detests dealing with frenzied or dramatic personalities—their minds often seem utterly unpredictable, making effective communication a constant challenge. And yet, despite their intensity, he finds himself consistently outmatched. At this moment, the Master of Zhishake Palace poured herself a cup of coffee, gently holding the handle with slender fingers—just as she was about to take a sip, her mask came into contact with the cup’s surface. She suddenly exclaimed: “Ah! I’ve forgotten to wear my mask…” Not only frenzied—but also mentally unwell! Zhang Yuanqing thought bitterly. The Master of Zhishake Palace set down the cup and smiled warmly: “You're absolutely right—everyone has secrets. For me, as long as those secrets don’t threaten my own safety, I am indifferent to others’.” Hearing this, Zhang Yuanqing felt a great weight lift from his shoulders, murmuring softly: “The scheduled transaction between Black Uncommon and Dark Night Rose is at Twelve O’Clock tonight. Possible locations include: Lai Fu Hotel, the Third Primary School of Place, and Songhe Park…” He listed three sites in succession before adding: “Among these, the likelihood for the Third Primary School of Place is the greatest.” The Master of Zhishake Palace lightly waved her wide sleeves, delighting in the girl-like amusement, and casually asked: “Since tomorrow is a Saturday—does that mean students have already gone home?” Zhang Yuanqing nodded: “That’s one reason. But another factor is that the Third Primary School lies within the city center, just across from a residential district—a location of quiet charm amidst urban bustle. Once an event unfolds there, Black Uncommon can easily slip into the neighborhood and escape.” Lai Fu Hotel hosts guests—any battle would result in widespread casualties and a swift erosion of moral standing; Songhe Park is too remote—if surrounded, evacuation becomes impossible. Fu Qingyang, recognizing both the cautiousness and cunning of the opposing party, has made the Third Primary School his primary objective, while designating the other two as secondary. Additionally, there are several locations with moderate potential but not negligible. “The five senior elders from the Branch of Place will each lead their subordinates to be stationed at corresponding sites. Specifically, Fu Qingyang and a senior elder from the Bǎi Huā Association will handle operations at the Third Primary School,” Zhang Yuanqing explained. “I believe once hostilities begin, you can seize the opportunity—strike against Dark Night Rose for retaliation.” The Master of Zhishake Palace rested her elbow on the counter, propped her chin with one hand, and smiled as her eyes curved: “That’s a sound strategy. To ensure both the Documentation and Black Uncommon’s body remain safe from Five Elements Alliance, wouldn’t you consider eliminating Fu Qingyang as well?” Are you suggesting I go down with you…? Zhang Yuanqing replied seriously: “My Master, I am a serious person—I do not enjoy theatricality.” The Master of Zhishake Palace laughed softly, her arms trembling like blooming flowers. “Xie Lingxi wouldn’t have said that at all—by the way, after our last meeting, I went to the hotel where she stayed and gave her a good beating.” Zhang Yuanqing blinked, now understanding why his little green tea companion had not reached out for several days—it was clearly out of frustration. No matter what—he must improve their relationship before he secures her Dream-Entrance Talisman. And after this Black Uncommon incident concludes, he would surely pay a visit to care for the young green tea lady. “If there’s no further business, I’ll be off.” Zhang Yuanqing proposed to conclude his visit. The Master of Zhishake Palace held her hands on her cheeks, smiling and nodding in approval. As they stepped out of the café, Zhang Yuanqing turned back—only to find the space dark behind him, the door firmly closed, and where once she stood, now only darkness remained. With his gaze fixed upon that spot, he began walking home, mentally simulating and analyzing the situation for tonight’s event. “According to official documentation, Black Uncommon is at the pinnacle of Sage Realm—a status among the strongest professions—thus not merely an ordinary Sage. As for the senior guardian of Dark Night Rose, she is undoubtedly the Night Wandering Deity—their rank remains unknown. If she is also a Sage-level figure, then the confrontation will be one of fierce rivalry; should she reach the level of Sovereign, it will become a true clash between titans—and in that case, the Master of Zhishake Palace effectively secures insurance for both myself and the official side.” “But this still isn’t sufficient. For Five Elements Alliance seeks not only the Skill but also the Documentation. Should the Master of Zhishake Palace intervene to seize the Documentation, it is highly likely that Fu Qingyang and the senior elder from Bǎi Huā Association will respond with targeted countermeasures.” Therefore, a more chaotic scenario must be engineered—ensuring that both official forces, Black Uncommon, and Dark Night Rose prioritize securing the Skill above all else. His plan has already taken shape—the Vice President of Ling Neng Association—the Wu Gu Master. This senior Wu Gu Master is indifferent to the Documentation; he only seeks the Skill. With his inclusion, the focus of every party will be compelled to center on the Skill. Thus, the resistance faced by the Master of Zhishake Palace in securing the Documentation will significantly diminish—currently, her motivation stems not from a strong desire for the Skill, but rather from defeating Dark Night Rose’s scheme and eliminating either its leader or its senior guardian. “The plan appears sound. However, when it comes to execution, unforeseen changes are inevitable—the reality of life is always full of surprises.” “May the Lao Bang Zi protect me through this critical moment of exposure.” … In the morning, the young-faced person, delivering breakfast, just stepped out from a residential building. As a Wu Gu Master, he possesses boundless energy—delivered during the day and into the night, occasionally working overtime until dawn. Being an outside delivery driver allows him to move freely across locations, gather intelligence, meet with colleagues in secret, and earns a solid income. He genuinely enjoys this job. These days, he has maintained consistent communication, waiting for that individual who claims to be a member of Dark Night Rose to reach out. After the previous experience, he now understands—this may very well be an opportunity: one to win favor with the Vice President and establish himself through meaningful contributions. Should that person provide sufficient intelligence, some level of personal risk is warranted. As he stepped onto his electric scooter, a gentle chime echoed in his pocket—the notification tone from his second smartphone. Zhang Yuanqing's spirits lifted—he quickly pulled out his phone to read: “Transaction location between Black Uncommon and Dark Night Rose: Third Primary School of Place. Time is tonight at Twelve O’Clock. If no target is discovered, please remain in touch.” Third Primary School of Place—at Twelve O’Clock? The young delivery driver’s mind buzzed—struggling to grasp it. How could such vital information be shared so swiftly and precisely? Could the location have been confirmed so definitively so early? Indeed, the Vice President has searched for Black Uncommon nearly a full month with little success—the elusive figure remains stubbornly hidden. Then, Zhang Yuanqing’s face lit up—his expression radiating genuine excitement. If this information is accurate—he will undoubtedly claim his first major victory. The Vice President will surely offer him commendation and recognition, elevating his standing within Ling Neng Association significantly. Even if the information proves false—it would not matter, as the association has received numerous instances of inaccurate reports recently. “Immediately report to the Vice President…” Zhang Yuanqing started his scooter, speeding off toward the office. … Time: 23:50. Under the deepening night sky, at the entrance of the Third Primary School of Place, a 24-hour convenience store, Zhang Yuanqing sat by the floor-to-ceiling window, slurping on a bowl of instant noodles. He raised his hand to press against the wireless microphone and murmured: “Target personnel have entered the school—everyone, pay attention.” A few seconds later, Crang Jingwei’s clear voice echoed through the channel: “Fu Qingyang has arrived? Why can’t we join in and participate, but instead are stationed outside? This feels utterly dull.” Zhang Yuanqing replied: “To prevent your early demise. Also, it isn't Fu Qingyang who has entered—it is the Person Known as Heaven’s Unjustness.” Crang Jingwei: “Can I not enter at all? I’d like to engage in combat—perhaps even blow up the entire school!” Young lady, your ambition is truly risky… Zhang Yuanqing asked: “Why?” Crang Jingwei: “I attended this very school—the curriculum was rigorous and teachers were strict, leaving a deep psychological imprint on me. But at that time, I hadn’t yet received my Character Card.” Zhang Yuanqing: “Well said—don’t underestimate the young!” And then added: “Would you mind helping me burn down my own alma mater as well?” At this moment, Teng Yuan’s voice came through—weak but serious: “I don’t mind your performances or acts of comedy—but kindly consider the feelings of others on the channel.” Crang Jingwei and Zhang Yuanqing fell silent. For tonight’s operation, Fu Qingyang had assembled his trusted subordinates across various stores and intersections near the school, assigning them to prevent ordinary citizens from approaching—serve as a barrier for fleeing enemies—and manage any unexpected situations. The frontline confrontation is not necessary—they are merely setting up additional casualties. Zhang Yuanqing continued eating his noodles, yet his mind was preoccupied with one matter—Fu Qingyang had mentioned earlier that he suspected Black Uncommon would have the confidence to negotiate with Dark Night Rose due to a solid foundation of strength. Such confidence usually signals both strategic reserves and underlying developments. … At the Third Primary School of Place, the teaching building stood isolated in the night’s darkness—the entire structure illuminated only by one office on the first floor, located at the far left corner. The office was crowded with six desks—stacked with books, teaching tools, computers, and other clutter. Before a window-facing desk sat a man whose face was thin and gaunt—his facial features angular, eyes fine and narrow, complexion pale—though unattractive in appearance, he was far from ordinary. Such an unusual visage immediately captured attention. Black Uncommon tapped his fingers on the desk as he listened to a subordinate’s report: “Madam, I’ve confirmed that Dark Night Rose has successfully secured the Contract Book.” Black Uncommon asked softly: “How did you verify this?” The woman smiled: “I personally caught a woman—tested her after she signed the contract—and upon fulfillment of the agreement, she became one of my most loyal subordinates. Now, any request I make, she cannot refuse.” Black Uncommon nodded, satisfied. As the leader of an evil organization, he understood well that negotiating with Dark Night Rose was equivalent to trying to secure a meal from a tiger—highly risky. The likelihood of successful negotiation was low; the probability of being ‘blacked out’ by them was even greater. Thus, during his stay in Place, Black Uncommon had consistently awaited one critical message: That Dark Night Rose had borrowed the “Contract Book” from an external force. This is a piece of equipment belonging to the Knight profession—it enables the establishment of binding agreements; any individual who violates such an agreement will face severe consequences. With this protective layer in place, Black Uncommon now dared to proceed with negotiations. In fact, securing the “Contract Book” from Dark Night Rose was one of Black Uncommon’s initial demands. Knights are members of the Orderly Profession—thus, when a Wu Gu Master attempts direct contact, he is likely to be eliminated by them. However, Dark Night Rose has no such concern—many of its members belong to the Orderly Profession. By making a modest payment, they can successfully secure the Contract Book. At that moment, the clock on the wall struck Twelve O’Clock—the office door was then gently knocked upon.