A cascading fire sea spreads along the walls and ceiling, making Chiang Yuenqing appear like an ancient fire deity—robust, commanding, and full of presence. At forty-something years old, he has a well-groomed haircut, slightly tanned skin, broad nose and face, with firm cheek muscles that convey the strength of a courageous man. The fine lines radiating from his eyes add a touch of mature charm. Chiang Yuenqing enters the hall using his fire-based movement technique, scanning the chaotic scene with sharp eyes. Upon seeing three corpses of Realm Walkers, his pupils contract slightly and his expression grows increasingly cold. "Three useless ones!" he mutters, only showing a slight improvement in tone when he sees Wu Ya unconscious. Wu Ya is one of his financial tools—someone he controls, managing several influential figures in Songhai. His authority in Shaokou district is solid not only due to his Sage Stage strength but also because of the tangible "evidence" he holds. Developing a reliable financial tool is far more challenging than training Realm Walkers. As long as Wu Ya survives, the Copper Quail Tower base remains secure. "Chiang Yuenqing!" Kou Beiyue's eyes instantly glisten with tears, his refined features now contorted like that of a furious lion. Upon hearing this, Chiang Yuenqing turns and calmly replies: "I checked the files yesterday—only then did I realize you were this young lad. Since your escape from the municipal mortuary, there have been no updates or appearances at all. I thought you had already perished in the Spirit Realm." Slight hesitation, he licks his lips and smiles: "Your sister is quite remarkable. Ever since she arrived at Copper Quail Tower, I’ve stayed here nightly—she’s given me a sense of joy I hadn’t felt in years. I’ve indulged in various ways to play with her, even tormenting her. Unfortunately, she's not particularly cooperative; strong-willed and stubborn. So sometimes, I invite other guests over..." "SHUT UP!" Kou Beiyue collapses—new grievances rising, memories of his sister flashing through his mind—his senses lost as he charges at Chiang Yuenqing. Chiang Yuenqing simply smiles with a satisfied expression, calmly summoning from his inventory a thin red glove. Inconvenient—losing one's composure before a Sage is practically equivalent to dying... Zhang Yuanqing immediately summons the Burst Pistol and fires to provide cover. "Pop! Pop!" The bullets reach their target faster than Kou Beiyue can react, but Chiang Yuenqing merely extends his hand slightly in front of him—immediately forming a flame barrier that appears out of thin air. The burst-core steel rounds hover in midair, spinning rapidly, yet fail to advance even one centimeter. Before they can explode, the intense heat melts them into black iron water. Chiang Yuenqing does not look at his attackers. With his right hand wearing the red glove, he exhales sharply and launches a surge of blazing flame—coalescing it into a long blade with an inner yellow core and an outer crimson layer. This blade differs from those formed by other Fire Masters—it appears solidly like a physical weapon upon first glance. Taking one step forward, Chiang Yuenqing performs a reverse sweep with the red-bladed sword. A surge of hot wind rushes past Kou Beiyue—who is still furious but regains some composure—crossing his body in front to block. The edges of both blades rub against each other; Kou Beiyue’s military saber instantly turns as if seared by iron, then snaps with a dull yet distinct "thud." Kou Beiyue doesn’t even have time to mourn the damage—he demonstrates the close-combat prowess expected of an Enchantment Demon, suddenly arching his body so that the hot blade grazes across his chest and abdomen. Chiang Yuenqing takes another step forward, retracts the sword slightly, gathers strength briefly, then performs a lateral sweep across his waist. "Tap! Tap! Tap!" A rapid and crisp series of footsteps rushes in—Zhang Yuanqing’s Red Dance Shoes leap into motion, delivering a swift and powerful sequence of leg attacks aimed at the opponent's waist and abdomen. Even with Chiang Yuenqing’s strong constitution, he is knocked off balance—the sword blade deflects slightly. Chiang Yuenqing retreats one step, shortening the blade to a shorter form and striking it at the strange Red Dance Shoes. "Whoa!" The edge of the blade burns through the air—yet upon impact with the shoes, there's no difference between cutting them and hitting empty space. "Hmm?" Chiang Yuenqing’s expression falters—as if unprepared for this result. At that moment, black vapor engulfs his face, his eyes blazing crimson—his composure replaced by fury and wildness. His rationality rapidly fades; his thoughts become chaotic—in just a few seconds, he transforms into a driven beast guided solely by instinct and emotion. As his mind becomes confused, a sharp blade appears silently at his neck, gliding toward the carotid artery. Zhang Yuanqing’s silhouette materializes behind Chiang Yuenqing as a sudden attacker. Among Zhang Yuanqing's array of props, the Burst Pistol and the Fighter’s Gloves—the two fire-master-level items—are eliminated first—they are clearly unable to withstand a Saint-Level Fire Master in the same profession. The Tianchan Incense Furnace has too long a setup time—useless in this situation. The Cat King Speaker’s flute is no longer functional; the drumbeat would affect Kou Beiyue, potentially causing him to be defeated instantly—an indirect assistance to Chiang Yuenqing that effectively turns his teammate into a backstabbed ally. The Insight Eye and the Mask of Transformation are auxiliary items—ignored altogether. The Divine Artifact (Fumagong) is not applicable here. Of all the props, only the Blood-Infused Blade, Red Dance Shoes, Red Mantle, and the Straw Figure present a threat to Chiang Yuenqing. Among these four, the Straw Figure—originating from Black Uncommon—is the most effective, activating rapidly and directly threatening a Level 4 Sage. Although Chiang Yuenqing is a Level 4 Sage—stronger than the three previous Realm Walkers—he is still a Fire Master; Zhang Yuanqing believes he can successfully execute an ambush attack. "Crack!" Chiang Yuenqing’s foot slips, his body leans backward to evade the stroke aimed at his carotid artery. Zhang Yuanqing does not hesitate—turns the blade downward and plunges it into Chiang Yuenqing's shoulder. "Whoa!" The wound is sharp—the pain clears Chiang Yuenqing’s mind slightly; he arches his back, lifts himself up while still holding onto the blade with one hand, completely ignoring the deepening injury—then raises a fire orb in his palm and strikes it toward the retreating attacker. Wearing the Insight Eye, Zhang Yuanqing anticipates Chiang Yuenqing's attack, smoothly sidesteps it. Chiang Yuenqing’s strike misses—the flame orb suddenly contracts in his hand, exploding with a powerful "boom"—like a high-explosive mortar shell. The signature ability of the Fighter’s Gloves—achieved effortlessly by a Level 4 Fire Master—is now even more potent and forceful. Zhang Yuanqing's body shatters into countless droplets, splashing across the floor. Facing a Level 4 Sage, he couldn’t have possibly failed to don the Yin-Yang Robe before stepping in—this very item grants him control over both water and fire elements, indirectly mastering the skills of Water Spirits and Fire Masters. "Water Spirit?" Chiang Yuenqing is amazed. This individual's techniques are so diverse—they include the Night-Wanderer’s nocturnal movements, the Wizard-Enchanter’s curses, as well as mastery over the passive abilities of the Water Spirit. Chiang Yuenqing extends his arms, aligning his palms to the ground—directly at the enemy who has turned into a fountain of water droplets. To defeat a Water Spirit is straightforward—their moisture can be evaporated with high heat. As this process unfolds, gentle and radiant light spirals outward from Chiang Yuenqing’s body, repairing the shoulder wound and suppressing the dark vapor. The Rain-Gentle Inner Armor—a prop originating from the Music Master—now functions effectively. "Hiss!" Two streams of blazing fire serpents emerge from his palms, gently licking at the water droplets on the ground. "Crack!" At a critical moment, Kou Beiyue leaps up and delivers a powerful kick to Chiang Yuenqing’s arms—immediately causing flames to erupt toward the ceiling. Two sharp "thuds"—the Red Dance Shoes align with the attack—and for a brief time, they manage to momentarily hold back the Level 4 Sage. "Rush! Rush!" The fire-detecting sprinklers atop the ceiling sense the heat and activate—spraying strong, dense streams of water that soak the ground. Zhang Yuanqing’s consciousness gradually returns—he gathers himself slowly, using the gentle water droplets like a rain shower to restore his physical form, eventually regaining human shape. As he regains his form and vision, he sees Chiang Yuenqing's body suddenly erupting with an intense burst—his breath rising steadily in intensity, creating a powerful presence of pressure. The Master of Rage! This is the core technique of a Fire Master at the Sage Stage—from Level 4 to Level 6, the Fire Master possesses only this one skill—the "Master of Rage." This ability significantly amplifies the user’s strength—ranging from one-fold to three-fold power growth—making the Saint-Level Fire Master virtually invincible. Even an Enchantment Demon must now avoid its path of attack. Kou Beiyue, who is currently engaged in close combat, suddenly stiffens—the Red Dance Shoes are unaffected, but their attacks no longer have any effect on Chiang Yuenqing’s raging state. Chiang Yuenqing slightly bends his knees, grips his right fist against his chest, and pushes forward with the strength of a lever—like a shaft extending from his body. "Snap!" Kou Beiyue’s ribcage fractures instantly—he launches off like a broken sandbag, striking hard against the game console behind him. He slowly collapses to the ground, his body trembling—unable to rise again. "Tap! Tap! Tap..." Chiang Yuenqing swiftly resolves the engagement without granting Kou Beiyue any breathing room—maintaining the pressure with his hands wearing the thin red glove, launching a flame and coalescing it into a long blade before delivering a decisive strike. "Rush! Rush!" Zhang Yuanqing, who has not yet used the Red Mantle, again collapses into transparent, clear water droplets—wrapped in the streams of water from above—transforming into a flowing, graceful water ribbon. The water current surges dynamically, wrapping around and encircling Chiang Yuenqing’s magnificent long blade. "Whistle! Whistle! Whistle!" The initially clear water rapidly turns cloudy—emitting abundant bubbles and white mist—entering an active boiling state. Water droplets continuously replenish the ribbon stream—the delicate balance between the water current and the blade remains in a subtle equilibrium throughout this process. During all of this, Zhang Yuanqing’s Red Dance Shoes actively kick at Chiang Yuenqing’s chest, tirelessly trying to rescue their ineffective, now-useless master. "Dying! I'll have you reduced to ash!" A sudden flash of flame sparks in Chiang Yuenqing's eyes—his long blade rapidly heats up, releasing large amounts of vapor that cover the water ribbon with a loud "puff-puff" sound—as if boiling rapidly—within moments, it evaporates significantly and cannot be replenished. "Bang!" A strong and resonant gunshot echoes from outside the hall. Chiang Yuenqing suddenly lowers his head with a sharp jerk—the body sways slightly forward. Are there still other opponents? He quickly steadies himself, enduring the pain in his skull, and turns to face the entrance. At the doorway, three individuals enter—led by a young man wearing casual pants, a loose sleeve shirt, and slippers. His expression is warm and relaxed—with eyes half-closed, exuding an innate sense of ease. To his left stands a man in black vest and white shirt—shiny shoes—his side whiskers neatly groomed, maintaining elegance even at nightfall. On the right is a mixed-race woman wearing a white blouse with black skirt—elegant and graceful, her long legs wrapped in black stockings—holding a splendidly decorated gun with golden patterns. "At last!" Zhang Yuanqing manages to regain his form and gently falls beside Kou Beiyue. At the same time, he halts the Red Dance Shoes’ attack function and activates their second form, donning it on his feet. This ensures that Chiang Yuenqing does not act unceremoniously in an ambush—while also preventing the shoes from awkwardly performing a choreographed dance for him. Zhang Yuanqing had not expected Chiang Yuenqing to arrive so swiftly—but he had taken preventive measures: prior to action, he notified Guan Ya and informed her of the situation. Given Guan Ya’s experience and wisdom—once she learned that this incident involved a Sage, she was certain to inform Fu Qingyang and come in person—not act alone. Indeed, she did so—but Zhang Yuanqing hadn’t anticipated arriving not with Fu Qingyang, but with Ling Jun. How capable is he? After all, Ling Jun was specifically designated by Fu Qingyang as a mere "junk" figure—now he’s clearly out of his depth. Zhang Yuanqing breathes heavily and gasps for air. Guan Ya pauses briefly at Zhang Yuanqing before turning her gaze to Chiang Yuenqing, speaking with grit: "I’m going to shoot you right through the head!" Li Dongze pulls out a small pistol and raises his staff. Ling Jun quickly lifts his hands, gently tapping in front of both of them with a relaxed expression: "Let’s talk—harmony brings prosperity. Harmony brings prosperity." Chiang Yuenqing examines the three individuals carefully, then speaks calmly: "Who are you all?" As he speaks, a soft and serene glow spreads outward from him—repairing the injury in his back from the gunshot wound. Songhai is vast—Realm Walkers from different regions rarely meet; as a steward, Chiang Yuenqing certainly doesn’t know ordinary members of other districts. He had been able to suppress his impatience and aggression only because the young man appearing calm and composed—so easygoing—had given him a sense of perceived threat. Li Dongze speaks seriously: "I am the Captain of the Second Unit, Songhai Branch of the Five Elements Alliance, from Kangyang District." The Captain of Kangyang District... Chiang Yuenqing remains composed—he calmly replies: "There’s no such incident—my reports indicate that a foreign profession has infiltrated private residences and carried out deadly assaults. I have personally come to handle this matter. Please return now." None of the three move. The crimson moon, eyes half-lidded, suddenly grew stern, and asked with sharp intensity: “How dare the people of Kangyang District interfere in my Shaokou area’s affairs? Don’t even mention you, a mere Chief—Fu Qingyang has no standing to step into my jurisdiction. If you persist, I’ll have you all eliminated. And then, how will the elders support your cause?” The Place branch had strictly established regulations: official Pilgrims from different districts were not permitted to intervene in matters outside their own jurisdictions unless authorized by an elder or if the respective district’s Pilgrims formally requested assistance. Such rules stood firm—how could Zhang Yuanqing possibly convince anyone else to take over the Copper Roost Pavilion? When he said “eliminate,” it was no mere threat. Should these three insist on meddling and challenge his authority, especially by confronting him directly for control of the pavilion, that would constitute a serious breach. The official Pilgrims from Kangyang having intervened privately in affairs beyond their own jurisdiction, violently seizing resources, and even attacking members of the local organization—such actions warranted full defense. Even if he personally killed them, it would be justified; at most, he’d receive administrative reprimand. “Hmm… We’ve actually ceased handling this matter altogether. Perhaps we should just withdraw.” Ling Jun had come to rescue, not to investigate. Nor was he affiliated with the Five Elements Alliance—thus, he didn’t wish to become entangled in these details. Guan Ya and Li Dongze turned their gaze toward Yuan Shi Tian Zun. “Withdraw?” Cheng Yue An’s tone grew more firm; she scoffed, “That won’t do. They are members of the Evil Organization—they’ve killed my team members and brutally assaulted ordinary citizens. Do you expect me to simply let them go? Are you suggesting we cover up these crimes…?” As she spoke, her expression suddenly tightened. She abruptly turned around, looking sharply at the young man—ordinary in appearance—who had just performed a Night Wandering Deity skill. Kangyang District, Night Wanderer… “Are you Yuan Shi Tian Zun?” Cheng Yue An’s tone shifted with recognition. At that moment, Zhang Yuanqing felt as though he were overwhelmed by debts and burdens, his heart cracked open: “Indeed, you’re my father!” Having just finished utilizing the Yin-Yang Robe, his emotions surged—now restless and defiant. Yuan Shi Tian Zun, an A-class honor recipient, highly esteemed by the Elder Council… Cheng Yue An now found himself at a loss. How could he possibly eliminate such a prominent figure? At least not at this very moment. He swiftly adjusted his strategy, took a deep breath, and turned to Ling Jun and the trio, his voice firm and commanding: “You may take him away—but you cannot remove the other Enchantment Demon.” His next move would be to erase evidence—clear out all the women from the Copper Roost Pavilion. As long as there was no solid proof, leveraging his position within the organization and his standing behind the scenes, he could resolve the matter without major consequences. Ling Jun nodded gently: “Agreed!” He then turned toward Zhang Yuanqing: “Go now—leave this place. For what follows, you’ll coordinate directly with Fu Qingyang.” “Coordination” meant following procedure. To initiate an inquiry into a Pilgrim required formal approval from the Elder Council, including submission of inspection requests and supporting evidence. And Cheng Yue An’s immediate superior elder was no mere Chief—complications had now deepened. “No,” Zhang Yuanqing said, pushing himself upright with effort as he looked at Ling Jun and the others, breathing heavily. “I cannot leave today. If we depart now, this issue will vanish entirely.” “I’ve already uncovered everything—I know what’s truly happening. Cheng Yue An has been cultivating a network of criminal forces, imprisoning and holding innocent individuals hostage, pressuring them to generate revenue. Using their earnings, he secures bribes for influential figures in my Shaokou district—across hundreds of stores, he has compelled the sale of dozens of properties. Moreover, there are allegations of murder…” He listed each piece of information he had gathered, item by item, with growing clarity and conviction. Li Dongze listened, utterly stunned. He had only heard a general account from Guan Ya—no concrete understanding. Guan Ya shared the same experience. She had learned that the women in Shaokou were being mistreated, pressured to pay off influential patrons. Even then, she had felt physically unwell and deeply outraged. Now, what she was hearing—how far beyond her expectations these practices went—was staggering. The way the women of the pavilion were treated could no longer be described simply as “persecution.” They had become financial instruments—tools for indulgence, even sources of raw pleasure. These weren’t just cases of hardship—they included outright business conflicts and exploitative conduct as well. Ling Jun’s relaxed demeanor gradually grew more serious, his smile fading one by one.