“Not much, not much…” Zhang Yuanqing waved his hand. Just as Li Dongze and Guan Ya thought the amount was indeed modest, he shifted smoothly: “2,000 points.” Guan Ya nearly choked on her juice, “Two thousand points of morality?!” “Oh my goodness, I’ve never seen so many moral points in my life,” Li Dongze said with a sense of wonder. Ordinary Spirit Realm Pilgrims accumulate moral points through relatively simple means—such as charitable acts or everyday kindness—and usually maintain levels around one hundred. Official Pilgrims have dedicated channels for donations, and the Five Elements Alliance organizes large-scale public welfare campaigns annually, making it easier to earn moral points compared to independent practitioners. As a result, most official Pilgrims typically hold between 100 and 200 points. Although Li Dongze isn’t especially passionate about philanthropy, he hasn’t committed any major wrongs either—so his accumulated moral points have hovered around two hundred. Yuan Shi’s performance, however, is ten times that. “Two thousand points of moral value—that’s truly rare,” Ling Jun said, biting into a piece of honeydipped melon. “You’ll be free to commit crimes and do evil things from now on.” I thought the same, but saying it out loud feels awkward, Zhang Yuanqing replied with firm dignity: “I wouldn’t do anything wrong at all. I’m a model citizen, honestly. These moral points mean absolutely nothing to me.” “But you’ve been secretly watching Guan Ya’s chest,” Ling Jun exposed. “It’s not just watching—it’s appreciation and admiration for something beautiful. Besides, Guan Ya is right there. To say that makes her feel very disrespected,” Zhang Yuanqing said, glancing at the charming mixed-race woman beside him. Moreover, merely watching a person’s chest doesn’t deduct from one's moral value—so it’s not exactly bad behavior. Ling Jun scoffed: “When she knocked out my teeth back then, did she show me much respect?” Ah? Did Ling Jun really get knocked out by Lao Si Ji years ago? Zhang Yuanqing felt curious and inquired with interest: “What happened?” Guan Ya smiled gently: “He used to be quite flirtatious—always approaching attractive women. Once, when he came to Fu’s household with his grandfather, he immediately approached me and asked to hold my hand, saying things like ‘Miss Lin.’ I had only been learning Chinese for a few years back then and didn’t know who Miss Lin was—I just gave him a solid beating. Honestly, we weren’t Spirit Realm Pilgrims at that time—now he’s become a Sage and I simply can’t match him.” Oh, a childhood friendship indeed… Zhang Yuanqing felt a bit jealous. Ling Jun managed a dry chuckle: “It’s all old history now. Mentioning it again would only make me feel awkward.” After those two incidents, Ling Jun suffered deep emotional wounds—his dental condition was just one symptom—and ever since, he’d no longer find any woman of the Fu family appealing, not even if they were strikingly beautiful. Ling Jun glanced at Zhang Yuanqing with a relaxed, casual smile: “I don’t particularly connect well with women I know very well. Otherwise, given my refined tastes and demeanor, Guan Ya would now be my girlfriend—what a lucky break for you.” His tone subtly implied a wish to see the two get together. Guan Ya glanced at him: “What do you mean?” Ling Jun chuckled: “Just imagine Fu Qingyang calling Ling Jun ‘his subordinate’s sister-in-law’—that would be quite entertaining.” Guan Ya huffed, turned to Zhang Yuanqing, and teased with a smile: “Yuan Shi is now very well known. There are so many women who admire him—Queen Li even sent me a message asking about you. Honestly, that woman seems genuinely interested in you. Would you like to get to know her better?” Guan Ya clearly has strong feelings for Yuan Shi—not yet at the level of love, but far beyond ordinary friendship. Should this dynamic continue, Fu Qingyang would have no choice but to call Yuan Shi his sister-in-law… Ling Jun, who is so insightful about women’s emotions, immediately sensed Guan Ya’s subtle envy—more so in her teasing tone than in her words. Zhang Yuanqing, however, lacks such emotional nuance. Though skilled in social interactions, he doesn’t deeply understand the inner world of women. In response to this, he instinctively stepped on the gas: “Indeed, there is a woman just as grounded and refined as Guan Ya with strong, resilient poise—so when she finally decides to make her move, please inform me.” Is that really a fool? Ling Jun thought, his spirits sinking. He quickly turned to Guan Ya, who gurgled softly: “Yes, yes, absolutely.” Though smiling, there was no warmth in her eyes. Zhang Yuanqing was satisfied with his driving skills and laughed heartily. Indeed, he must be a real fool… Ling Jun thought, resolving to one day take this young man out for a proper experience—so that he might learn how utterly foolish it is to speak ill of another woman when someone has genuine interest in you. The correct response should have been: While she’s certainly admirable, she’s worlds apart from Guan Ya—a woman with deep insight and keen perception. At this moment, Fu Qingyang pushed open the double wooden doors of the study, his eyes gently scanning all four people before saying: “Yuan Shi, come with me for a moment.” Zhang Yuanqing promptly set down his silver spoon used to dig into ice cream and hurriedly followed. Fu Qingyang walked forward without turning around, stating simply: “The case has been officially categorized—let’s award him plenty of moral points.” “Two thousand,” Zhang Yuanqing replied. Fu Qingyang nodded: “In future events, don’t hesitate to act due to ordinary concerns, nor fear being outmaneuvered in terms of moral points by your opponents. As for this case—what are your thoughts?” Zhang Yuanqing paused and then said quietly: “I’m deeply disappointed with Song Hai. I’ve always taken pride in being a Song Hai native—it’s so developed, so prosperous, so outstanding that even globally it ranks among the leading regions. Yet now… I only feel it’s trash.” Pausing again, he added: “Even worse than Ling Jun, Jiang Jingwei, and Guan Ya’s female general.” His deep sense of patriotism stems from his connection with his grandfather. He hadn’t previously seen many poor cases—yet the contrast between what he read in news reports and what he witnessed firsthand was profoundly unsettling. When he learned about Wu’s crimes and the involvement of elite officials in Shākǒu district, a vision formed in him to notify the Heavenly King—the very idea began to resonate with that King’s ambition of transforming the world. This is an extremely dangerous sign. “That truly sounds like trash,” Fu Qingyang agreed, nodding. “If this leads to feelings of disillusionment or despair, remember to reach out to Sun, the Executive Officer—she’ll provide you with psychological support.” Stepping forward a few paces, he spoke in a calm yet serious tone: “Don’t expect too much from humanity. Don’t lose hope for the world.” Is that what the Hundred-Man Commander is doing? Zhang Yuanqing was completely surprised and taken aback. As they walked down the corridor and descended the two-way staircase, Fu Qingyang added: “Kou Beiyue belongs to the Unseen Group—how would you like to handle this?” Upon hearing this, Zhang Yuanqing knew that this was a matter of greater significance than it first appeared—he immediately responded: “Let the Hundred-Man Commander decide.” Fu Qingyang had deliberately summoned him—not just to ask how to treat Kou Beiyue. “The Five Elements Alliance has traditionally adopted a policy of eliminating errors rather than forgiving them—people like Kou Beiyue, even if spared, would be placed under long-term supervision. But I believe his value extends far beyond that.” Fu Qingyang explained. “What so?” “For instance—we need someone to infiltrate the inner circle of that small team.” The “small team” refers to Master Wu’s group… Zhang Yuanqing suddenly realized: “So your intention is to develop Kou Beiyue into an informant, turning him into a spy embedded within the Unseen Group?” “But your second part sounds so awkward,” Fu Qingyang said, looking at him. “I interviewed Kou Beiyue personally—he doesn’t appear particularly intelligent; his thoughts are rather simple. Such someone would not be ideal for espionage work.” “So what is your actual intention?” Zhang Yuanqing thought, surprised. Fu Qingyang nodded in agreement: “You’re absolutely right—the division needs a spy to monitor that force constantly. Yuan Shi, you possess both sharp thinking and excellent interpersonal skills—making you an ideal candidate. Kou Beiyue’s case becomes your launching point. Once this is established, not only will the Unseen Group but also his entire network of Evil Organization members grow increasingly favorable toward you.” Indeed, if Xiao Yuan were to learn that Zhang Yuanqing had fought to save Kou Beiyue and later defended him from execution, she would sincerely express gratitude—Master Wu would also gradually become more open to him. But… Zhang Yuanqing thought: However, I simply cannot do it—the moment Master Wu learns I’ve infiltrated the organization as a traitor, he’ll surely eliminate me. My intention in joining is purely for security and survival—not for martyrdom! As a high-level Scout, Fu Qingyang immediately perceived Zhang Yuanqing’s concerns and the depth of his internal conflict, explaining: “You simply need to observe them—there’s no requirement that you take active steps. You only need to provide information when necessary.” “What constitutes ‘necessary’?” “When Wu becomes difficult to control.” Fu Qingyang said calmly. “You should understand that those who become members of the Evil Organization are typically real-life offenders. But you may not realize—offenders represent just the beginning. As their ranks rise, their mental states grow increasingly distorted—that is inherent to the nature of the profession and cannot be avoided. “The Master has always been disciplined and modest—but the very nature of the profession remains unchanged. The more he endures, the more intense the evil grows—the day will eventually come when he collapses—thus marking the arrival of disaster.” Zhang Yuanqing suddenly recalled that each time he met Master Wu, his voice carried a deep sense of pain—as if struggling to endure something unseen. That explains why he has chosen to remain by candlelight and ancient incense throughout life—and also why Xiao Yuan said Master Wu is reluctant to take decisive action. “How can we resolve the inner evil?” Zhang Yuanqing asked, frowning. “Through acts of violence!” Fu Qingyang declared firmly: “The Enchantment Demon’s bloodthirstiness, the Wu Gu Master’s subtlety, and the Illusionist’s malevolence—all ultimately converge on the act of killing. Once that sacred boundary is breached—then the floodwaters break free. However, before Wu loses control, the Branch Council refuses to oppose him—for fear of too great a cost. Therefore, you must remain vigilant.” “I understand…” Zhang Yuanqing murmured softly. As they reached the end of the staircase, a black iron door stood before them. Fu Qingyang pulled out a security card and handed it to Zhang Yuanqing. “Once you’ve settled this matter, accompany me in reviewing Cui Yuean,” he said with an even tone. Reviewing Cui Yuean? What could possibly be so important—after all, that’s just a straightforward death sentence… Zhang Yuanqing swiped the access card and walked into the private prison, following Fu Qingyang to the third iron door. Inside a compact room designed for both rest and personal grooming, a pale-faced yet alert young man sat quietly on the bed, radiating calm dignity—clearly determined to face his fate with composure. His injuries had been healed by the Beast King, but Kou Beiyue knew that death remained inevitable. Once captured by the Five Elements Alliance, execution was the only viable option—the conflict between Order and Evil made survival impossible. Upon hearing footsteps, the young man lifted his head and saw Zhang Yuanqing—his eyes brightened with excitement. “What will your Branch do with Cui Yuean?” he asked eagerly. “Death sentence!” Zhang Yuanqing said firmly. Kou Beiyue sighed in relief—now even more accepting of his fate: “Excellent—I’ll make sure to give him a good beating on the way to the afterlife, Yuan Shi Tian Zun. Please tell Xiao Yuan to thank her—she accepted me when I was alone and hopeless, guiding me through it. Without her, I might have already fallen apart. To me, she is like a mother and a sister—I am deeply grateful.” Zhang Yuanqing nodded: “Any other points?” Kou Beiyue thought for a moment: “Yes—definitely publicize the case of Cui Yuean—cover it in the news. That way my parents will see it—and know that their son never committed such barbarous acts, and has always been striving to live with purpose.” Speaking of these past two years filled with hardship and pain, this young man who had endured severe injuries without ever crying out or pleading for mercy now found his eyes glistening, his face deeply touched. Zhang Yuanqing asked: “Is that all?” “No… just one more thing—thank you. You are a good person—I truly respect you.” Kou Beiyue was amazed to find himself speaking these words with no hesitation or embarrassment—unlike in ordinary circumstances when he would have been absolutely reluctant to utter such expressions of sentiment. Perhaps it’s the saying: “As one nears death, their speech becomes gentle and sincere?” Zhang Yuanqing nodded, then opened the door: “Very well—when you’re finished, just step out. The Song Hai Branch has decided to pardon your case. Return to wherever you came from.” ??? Kou Beiyue stared at him in silence. For a moment, an eerie quietness settled within the prison room. After about two or three seconds, his face contorted—his jaw clenched tightly: “Respectful nonsense! You’re just a complete fool!” --- In Shākǒu District, on the street corner—a man dressed in jeans and wearing a baseball cap stood attentively surveying the surroundings while listening to his phone. “Chi Yue An has been arrested. The official building he operated, the Tong Que Lou, has been sealed by authorities, and he’s now in their hands. Before his arrest, he threatened you to save him—otherwise, he’d expose all your affairs.” “Where exactly is he being held? At Dog Elder’s zoo?” a calm voice comes through the phone. “I’m sorry, I haven’t yet found out—but he was taken by Realm Walkers from Kangyang District. You should have seen the official Forum post.” “Hmm.” “Should we kill Yuan Shi Tian Zun? This young man never settles down—he’s offending people everywhere.” “You can't do that. Honestly, I’m quite interested in him. I’ll handle Chi Yue An personally—keep you on standby for now.” “Understood.” …… Kou Beiyue walks through the bustling city streets, feeling a deep sense of discomfort. Just moments ago, he had scolded Yuan Shi Tian Zun. Now, embarrassed by his lack of cash, he politely asks for twenty yuan as travel expenses before taking a bus back to Jinshan City. He opens his Smartphone and finds over a dozen unread calls from Xiao Yuan. “Xiao Yuan must be worried—let me call her first…” Kou Beiyue dials the phone number of his beloved sister-in-all-things. He knows that Xiao Yuan hasn’t yet built her own intelligence network to gather information, so she has to regularly visit well-known underground markets to stay informed. The events of this midnight haven’t started spreading widely yet—so it will take some time for Xiao Yuan to learn about them. “Ding ding~” The phone connects, and a cold, clear voice comes through the speaker: “Kou Beiyue, you’re truly doing well—you’ve even learned how to power down your device. Has Yuan Shi Tian Zun also adopted this habit? Is it from you?” What used to sound irritating—filled with motherly tone—is now like a heavenly melody. Kou Beiyue feels as if he’s living in another world. A serene, cloudless smile spreads across his face: “Xiao Yuan, I finally feel at peace—I’ve truly been reborn.” The phone remains silent for several seconds before Xiao Yuan speaks cautiously: “You mean…” Kou Beiyue brightens up and says: “Yuan Shi Tian Zun led me to dismantle Chi Yue An’s base of operations and personally captured this brute. The senior staff at the Place Branch have decided to execute him.” “Did Yuan Shi Tian Zun handle all of this? Did he capture Chi Yue An? Has he sustained any injuries?” Xiao Yuan's voice suddenly rises, then quickly settles down, adding with a bit of hesitation: “And what about you—have you been injured?” “I’m fine,” Kou Beiyue says confidently, unaware of Xiao Yuan’s unusual reaction. “Unfortunately, it would have been best if he’d died outside.” Xiao Yuan offers a sharp remark before softly continuing: “Just return and I’ll personally ask Master Wuhen to advocate for you—reaccepting you back into the fold.” “Oh yes!” Kou Beiyue naturally overlooks Xiao Yuan’s awkwardness. …… At Wuhen Hotel. At the front desk, Xiao Yuan wears a white shirt paired with a wine-red suit jacket. She places her Smartphone down and her previously cold expression melts into warmth and joy—her mood is truly delightful. She turns away from the front desk, smiles slightly, takes the elevator, and arrives at Room 404. “Knock knock!” She knocks gently on the door and says softly: “Master Wuhen, I have something to report.”