The suburban villa in the outskirts. On the first floor, Li Xianzong was seated in a high-back chair, chatting with a guest inside. On a soft sofa, a mature and graceful woman lay sideways, her arms resting on the cushion. She wore black-framed glasses, her facial features elegant and cold—her demeanor resembled that of a strict teacher or homeroom counselor. Yet beneath her light silk dress, her body was flowing and alluring, creating a striking contrast with her composed aura. For an ordinary man, such a woman would surely make him feel giddy, even aroused; despite having many such companions throughout his career, he’d gladly settle for her company. But Li Xianzong remained utterly unmoved by the beauty, and instead spoke clearly about his purpose: “I need a prop that can restrain high-level spiritual beings—ideally at the Sage level.” Yuchuan Mei lay propped up on her arms, her hands resting gently on the edge of the sofa. Her voice was clear and composed: “Two million cash—or an equivalent in props or materials.” Li Xianzong smiled slightly: “I don’t have that much money.” For an Enchantment Demon, without considering moral value, the fastest way to accumulate funds is to establish a "sect" and gather large numbers of people who offer regular contributions—thus accumulating wealth within a short timeframe. A more reliable path involves gathering followers through influence, forming a company, and earning income legally. However, this route comes with risks: official scrutiny might uncover the operation, potentially rendering years of effort in vain. Moreover, many Enchantment Demons simply lack both the energy, interest, or capability to manage such business affairs. Yuchuan Mei anticipated all of this and responded with a mockingly dismissive tone: “Among the three main professions, only your military sect—the Army Sect—is notably underfunded, always focused on killing and destruction.” Then, she reached into her snowy, deeply creased hands and pulled out a small box containing three fine black needles. She explained: “I recommend you choose consumables—three Soul-Weakening Needles for three hundred thousand cash. This can be replaced with equivalent props or materials. These needles can severely injure 4-level spiritual beings; 5-level beings will also suffer notable damage, while 6-level beings…” She chuckled lightly: “I assume you're wise enough to know that such a level of enemy would not be worth the effort.” “Agreed,” Li Xianzong said. “I’ll deliver them within three days.” “No, no, no…” Yuchuan Mei shook her head firmly: “You still owe me ten strong defenders—orderly Pilgrims—that you promised to secure. Only after I receive these from you will we proceed with the next transaction. “To protect you against Fu Qingyang, I’ve sustained considerable injuries—and Fu Qingyang truly is a standout among the younger generation of the Five Elements Alliance.” As she spoke, her cheeks flushed, her legs pressed tightly together, and she murmured in rapt admiration: “His sword movements were unstoppable—like mountains collapsing or waves sweeping across the sea. So exhilarating! This is exactly what it feels like to experience the peak of one’s passion…” Li Xianzong watched her strained expression and muttered under his breath: *Weird!* “I’ll secure ten such defenders within half a month,” he said. He needed this prop—whether consumable or not—to counter Yuan Shi Tian Zun’s reserve strength. Only then could he face off against the Master of the Capital City's key asset. Before the large-scale killing instance begins, he must elevate his own capabilities as much as possible. To hunt down Yuan Shi Tian Zun offers three advantages: it refines his own skills rapidly and efficiently; the reward is substantial—both in cash and in props—and Fu Qingyang himself possesses an abundance of valuable equipment. Even without this trial assignment, Li Xianzong would have aimed to defeat Yuan Shi Tian Zun. --- At Huayu Hotel. In a café with a terrace, under a shaded umbrella, Xielingxi held a silver spoon and gently stirred her coffee. The ice cubes clinked against the cup wall with crisp sounds. “Brother Yuan Shi,” she said, frowning slightly, “you haven’t reached out to me in such a long time.” “I’ve stayed in Songhai precisely for you!” she continued, voice tinged with disappointment. “Why have you always overlooked me?” Across the small table, Zhang Yuancheng suddenly understood: “Ah—so that’s what it is! I apologize—I failed to recognize your importance. Let’s go back to my room so you can see just how warm and attentive I am.” “Ugh!” said the petite green tea girl, smiling softly while blushing slightly. “Brother Yuan Shi, you don’t look at all handsome now. I still prefer your original self.” Zhang Yuancheng had recently changed his appearance to that of Wang Tai—ordinary features and an unassuming, reserved manner. “Be cautious—the more careful you are, the better,” he said, sipping his coffee. “You know, Li Xianzong has been paying close attention to me.” Xielingxi added: “I heard yesterday you single-handedly stormed the hospital, defeating attackers and holding off Li Xianzong long enough for officials to rescue hostages—what a remarkable feat!” There it is—the advantage of being a green tea girl! Zhang Yuancheng sighed: “Regardless, I’ve still been outdone. The gap between us remains significant.” “For me,” she said, one hand resting on her cheek while stirring the coffee, “you haven’t even reached Level 3 yet. Once you emerge from Spirit Realm, you’ll easily surpass Li Xianzong.” Her eyes were bright and moist with sincerity. Zhang Yuancheng felt a quiet sense of comfort: *Did you use that calming skill on me?* “Of course not,” she replied earnestly. “All the things I said are truly true.” As her praise continued, Xielingxi finished the coffee. Zhang Yuancheng’s mood had fully recovered—he no longer felt burdened or overwhelmed. The Musician Skill’s ability to soothe was indeed effective; yet, in doing so, his personal affection for Xielingxi grew steadily stronger. At that moment, Xielingxi opened a delicate handbag placed beside her table, pulled the zipper open, and withdrew a dark stone embedded with ethereal light. “Brother Yuan Shi,” she said, “this is my gift.” Zhang Yuancheng paused: “You’re giving this to me?” “Well,” Xielingxi smiled gently, “I don’t use it myself—being so delicate and gentle, I merely hold the jade token in hand. It’s a waste. So I thought of giving it to you instead.” The gift was quite valuable—though Zhang Yuancheng had quietly considered how to extract value from her jade symbol, he hadn’t taken actual action. It seemed she also worried about Li Xianzong’s potential assassination of him—despite outward claims of friendship, the reality of their gap remained undeniable. To date, both official circles and friends—even unrelated wild Pilgrims—perceive Li Xianzong as a strong contender; they believe Yuan Shi Tian Zun is under growing pressure, and that he may soon face serious challenges from Li Xianzong. “I’ll keep it for myself,” Zhang Yuancheng said, gently pushing the jade back. “I haven’t yet reached the point of being so desperate.” He feared that once he received the token, his initial resolve to train relentlessly might weaken. Xielingxi did not press further—she returned the jade and whispered softly: “Brother Yuan Shi, Sister Guan is also at the hotel. She would like to see you.” “Oh? Then the radiant, lively sister is also here?” Zhang Yuancheng was surprised. He thought it fortunate that he had come as Wang Tai—should he reveal his true identity, this impulsive and passionate nature might well take him by surprise! Xielingxi stood up, took hold of Zhang Yuancheng’s arm, and led him out of the café toward their room. At the entrance to the presidential suite, she slipped the room card into his hand and said: “Go in now.” Zhang Yuancheng noticed her hesitation and asked: “Are you not coming in?” She shook her head repeatedly, gently stepping back. Ah—how can I feel so uneasy when seeing such a lovely young lady? Zhang Yuancheng watched as the green tea girl hurried away without him joining. He didn’t immediately press the card—he pulled out *The Art of Insight*. It had been some time since he’d used this artifact, and now it was finally an opportunity to examine the inner thoughts of his senior colleagues. He wanted to see just how much the Master of Zhishake Palace truly valued him—and how deeply she might be passionate about her own intentions. Wearing sunglasses, Zhang Yuancheng pressed the card and opened the door. “Beep—” As he entered through the entryway, facing a desk directly in front of the entrance, he saw the Lady of Zhishake Palace seated elegantly in a long red traditional gown. Her chest and sleeves were adorned with gold-threaded clouds and dragons, evoking grace and refinement. “Do you wish to see me?” Zhang Yuancheng nodded politely. Under her silver mask, bright eyes surveyed him gently, then smiled: “You’ve managed to stay composed despite being beaten up by Li Xianzong—this is more than I expected. I thought you’d be overwhelmed for several days.” “I came here specifically for psychological therapy,” Zhang Yuancheng responded, “because the young girl is so good at comforting people—whenever we’re together, something feels truly uplifting.” As he spoke, he observed her closely and noticed subtle details: Her gaze suggested that she was not entirely pleased—with an emotional tone directed toward him. Yet, he hadn’t done anything to provoke it. The Lady of Zhishake Palace sat calmly, playing with her sleeve, then said softly: “Soon I’ll be leaving Songhai for northern assignments. Before I depart, should I arrange for Li Xianzong’s elimination? I don’t want to return to Songhai and hear that you’ve fallen at his hands—after all, I've personally designated you as my primary choice.” “I find Xielingxi particularly endearing,” she added. “You should spend more time with her.” Her concern was sincere—not just casual flattery—but it carried a layer of complexity; she seemed to want him to agree, yet hesitated in doing so. She encouraged him to grow closer to Xielingxi, but her tone and demeanor subtly conveyed a warning. “Would you assist me?” Zhang Yuancheng asked with interest. The Lady nodded gently: “Five hundred thousand cash—this is sufficient.” Five hundred thousand? Even if he sold his life for it, that would still be a significant sum… yet when she mentioned the amount, there was a noticeable sense of satisfaction and even retribution in her voice. Zhang Yuancheng observed her closely—he now perceived an evolving intention: She kept fixing her gaze on his glasses, her eyes growing more intense—unfavorable, even—aware that he was observing her. Zhang Yuancheng felt a sudden startle and composedly removed his glasses. “No,” he said simply, “I’ll handle my own matters.” Upon hearing this, the Lady’s expression softened, clearly delighted with his response: “To rise as an independent strength requires not relying on external forces—each step must be taken personally. Li Xianzong is indeed a formidable opponent, but not one that cannot be overcome. Should you hesitate after your hospital defeat and agree to my terms, I shall be deeply disappointed.” Ah—she was clearly testing him all along. Then she added: “Now go—help me summon the young girl.” Even without his glasses, Zhang Yuancheng could now read her subtle intention—the delicate little green tea girl… He bowed slightly and departed. As he stepped out of the room, turning toward the elevator, he spotted Xielingxi waiting there with a sense of playful anticipation. “Huh—did Brother Yuan Shi leave so quickly?” she said, frowning and expressing disappointment. “Did Sister Guan not treat you kindly?” “What exactly did she do to me?” Zhang Yuancheng asked. “She’s like that—always fond of being difficult. She loves lifting people up and hanging them by the ears… I was even ready to rush in and save Brother Yuan Shi.” “Does she often do this?” “Yes, whenever she's not pleased with something, she always turns to me for her frustrations. And each time, she calls me ‘the dead girl.’” “Oh—so that’s where the title comes from,” Zhang Yuancheng said. “What does it mean, exactly, Brother Yuan Shi?” Xielingxi’s expression began to fade into concern. Zhang Yuancheng looked at her with a touch of pity: “Sister Guan mentioned earlier that she would like me to summon you.” Xielingxi’s face turned pale. --- After leaving Huayu Hotel, Zhang Yuancheng donned a baseball cap and mask, glanced around to ensure no one was following, and then began walking along the street. For the afternoon session, he had scheduled a meeting with Guan Ya—to learn combat techniques—arranged earlier that morning. The training facility is located in Fu Jiawan—a dedicated space for physical practice—and situated under the direct supervision of the Hundred-man Commander. He now no longer feels confident visiting the police bureau. Zhang Yuancheng believed, based on his own physical condition and with Guan Ya—the renowned combat expert—offering personal instruction, that he could quickly develop solid combat skills if he were willing to work diligently. “Once I’ve improved my physical prowess, the next objective will be to await the opening of Spirit Realm.” As he was thinking this, his phone in his pocket rang—Fu Qingyang’s voice on the line. “Hundred-man Commander,” Zhang Yuancheng answered as he connected. “Guan Ya has returned from the Capital City,” Fu Qingyang said. “You must come to me immediately.” “Has my issue with props been resolved?” Zhang Yuancheng asked, relieved. “Yes,” Fu Qingyang replied, though her tone carried a slight oddness: “Please come soon—don’t let the elder wait too long.” Wait for him? What does that mean…? Zhang Yuancheng didn’t understand—such a minor matter required the senior to personally wait for him?