The study. By the wide solid wooden desk, Fu Qingyang faced a 30-inch large screen. The speakers mounted on the wall emitted a restrained yet sharply articulate debate. He was conducting a telephone meeting with six participants—besides himself, one elder each from the Bǎi Huā Association, Shuǐ Shén Palace, Zhōng Tíng, Bái Hǔ Army, and Chì Huǒ Clan attended. Who could have imagined that an S-level Spirit Realm Guide at the Elevated Realm level would prompt the elders to convene a special meeting? After all, realm walkers of elder rank were high-tier practitioners capable of dismantling entire cities. These elders generally stayed out of daily affairs and rarely showed up in the mundane world—only when major incidents or decisions that proved difficult arose did they step in. This very guide—the one for Jin Shuǐ Water Park—was such a case. "Regarding No. 6203 Spirit Realm, if not handled properly, it could become the second 'She Ling Tunnel.' After all, She Ling Tunnel is merely a Trial Realm, which might only reduce the number of Night Wandering Deities created; however, No. 6203 would significantly diminish the number of Elevated Realm Night Wandering Deities. Since Taiyi Gate and I share close ties, we ought to transfer this guide to them—this also serves the interests of the Five Elements Alliance." The elder from the Bǎi Huā Association stated. Among the Five Elements Alliance, the Bǎi Huā Association had particularly strong relations with Taiyi Gate—the two powers were married in alliance. The eldest daughter of the Bǎi Huā Association’s Grand Elder was the sixth wife of Taiyi Gate's master; her child, Ling Jun, a Wood Demon (Beast King) at the Sage level, studied under the chief of the Bǎi Huā Association. "The guide can be delivered to Taiyi Gate," said the elder from Zhōng Tíng, "but the terms should be adjusted. We need not only monetary compensation—we also require the Night Wandering Deity's guide documentation and props. The depth of documentation and quantity of props will be renegotiated." The elder from the Bǎi Huā Association added with slightly stronger emphasis: "Otherwise, it may appear as though we are taking advantage of the situation, thereby affecting our relationship." "I think that for a Trial Realm of No. 6203's complexity, a higher price is entirely justifiable," Fu Qingyang said, smiling. "Indeed, even if it were us, encountering such a realm in the past would have been quite taxing." The meeting room fell silent—everyone acknowledged the value of this guide. A few seconds later, the elder from Shuǐ Shén Palace spoke with a gloomy tone: "According to a report from a water spirit who successfully passed Jin Shuǐ Water Park, only three individuals survived. Among them was a young girl named 'Xie Lingxi,' reportedly following the Night Wandering Deity through the entire journey. "I’ve personally investigated—the family is part of the Scattered Province’s Xie clan, so we are not the sole holders of this guide." The elder from Bái Hǔ Army disagreed firmly and spoke with conviction: "The Xie family will certainly demand more. Additionally, in the Ghost House segment, it is precisely our guide that holds the key to successful passage—therefore, its value is already established. "Moreover, I emphasize that the guide's author has explicitly noted that No. 6203 Spirit Realm would result in contestants killing one another during gameplay—both the hidden tasks and the mandatory Night Wandering Deity death segment are designed accordingly. "If a team member from our organization happens to be assigned to the 'Evil Offspring' role, they might very well perish during the Ghost Bride segment at the hands of Taiyi Gate’s Night Wandering Deity." In such a realm where contestants battle each other, information asymmetry can truly shape outcomes and destinies. The meeting room fell silent once more. At this point, Fu Qingyang calmly said: "Elders, I have one question." "Speak!" "In the guide, Yuan Shi proposed a hypothesis—that character assignments are based on human psychology. We may choose not to deliver it to Taiyi Gate, allowing only members of the Five Elements Alliance to enjoy exclusive access. However, what if someone receiving this guide is assigned to the 'Evil Offspring' role?" Fu Qingyang stated, speaking with calm dignity. "We all know that being an Orderly Profession does not necessarily imply being virtuous." The elder from Shuǐ Shén Palace replied with a deep tone: "You are absolutely right. What else do you propose?" Fu Qingyang said calmly: "Taiyi Gate remains closely allied with the Five Elements Alliance, so we must deliver the guide—however, we should revise its content. We should conceal Yuan Shi’s hypothesis and introduce a mechanism of random character assignment to mislead readers. "Then, we shall rigorously monitor passing reports. Should any member from either our organization or Taiyi Gate be assigned to the 'Evil Offspring' role, we will immediately summon them. In this way, it becomes not only an action of enforcement but also a powerful tool for identifying potential troublemakers within." The self-destructing nature of the realm mode cannot be altered—nor can the guide itself be withheld, as it is essential to our alliance. If the 'Captain' ultimately wins, that would be ideal. Should the 'Evil Offspring' prevail, then the official organization will pursue justice and eliminate the source of harm. "But this remains only a hypothesis," Fu Qingyang added. "So it will only result in summoning." Seeing no opposition from other elders, who appeared thoughtful, Fu Qingyang continued: "Following this matter, Taiyi Gate is certain to begin recruiting talent from us. Given that they hold extensive experience with Night Wandering Deity realm guides and possess deep knowledge of the profession—these are strengths we currently cannot match. Therefore, I believe it is crucial to win their loyalty through consistent generosity—by demonstrating virtue in service." The elders did not see recruitment as a major concern—but this newly arrived Night Wandering Deity was indeed special. The elder from Zhōng Tíng said with contemplation: "This young person clearly possesses talent—having successfully passed two S-level realms. She will surely reach the Sage level soon. 'By demonstrating virtue'? What exactly do you intend to do?" Fu Qingyang calmly responded: "You simply need to approve the bonuses and merit points." The meeting room fell silent once again. The elder from Bǎi Huā Association coughed, as if trying to downplay the earlier mention of 'demonstrating virtue,' and said: "I have a piece of intelligence concerning this young person. Taiyi Gate has compiled recent updates on changed realms—and discovered that in each instance, restless spirits within the instances are being commissioned by the San Dao Mountain Organization to complete an identical task—that is, to locate a single young person. "The name of that young person consists of four characters. Combining details from the She Ling Tunnel guide, it's not difficult to infer—the San Dao Mountain Organization is seeking Yuan Shi Tian Zun." "San Dao Mountain is searching for him?" Fu Qingyang’s composed expression revealed surprise. All elders were startled. The elder from Bǎi Huā Association smiled and said: "Then there must be something hidden in the young person's report about She Ling Tunnel. Taiyi Gate is currently investigating this matter—soon, they may seek out this individual. You should keep a close eye on it." "Good!" ... "Sun Elder is being so unclear!" In one of the private Captain groups, Yuan Ting expressed her heartfelt frustration. The group consisted of Night Wandering Deity members due to enter the realm soon—having come together out of shared concerns about the changing nature of the realms and how to navigate S-level and A-level challenges. "Nothing so serious," the captains responded in unison: "The Five Elements Alliance and Taiyi Gate are closely aligned. It will simply be a matter of modest cost to secure the Jin Shuǐ Water Park assignment." Although Yuan Shi Tian Zun indeed stood out as an exceptional talent, with promising future achievements, Taiyi Gate also maintained a strong roster—both in Elevated Stage and Sage Stage talents. Moreover, considering that the Five Elements Alliance and Taiyi Gate are allies, Yuan Shi Tian Zun could be counted broadly as part of Taiyi Gate’s contingent. Yuan Ting said: "You don’t know—I heard from Li Dongze that Jin Shuǐ Water Park is a certain death for Night Wandering Deities." "What?" The captains reacted in surprise. While it wasn't guaranteed they would enter, once a Night Wandering Deity reached the Elevated Realm level—wouldn’t they have to face this challenge eventually? "If it's truly a certain death, then that young person must have survived. How did he survive?" "Exactly," one replied. "As long as we have the guide, that’s sufficient." Yuan Ting continued: "I heard from Li Dongze that the elder council of the Five Elements Alliance is currently holding a meeting—and seems reluctant to deliver this guide to us. You know how it is—meetings among elders often drag on for ten or even fifteen days before reaching conclusions. Yet, many of you in the group have been waiting for that result without receiving updates." "Ah yes—Sun Elder truly is being unclear!" "Sun Elder indeed is rather indecisive!" The captains expressed their growing discontent. ... A significant divergence arose—Zhang Yuanqing paused and then grasped the core issue. With a gentle smile, he said: "Does it matter? After all, this is something that senior leadership will need to deal with. As long as I don't miss out on my merit points and bonuses—that’s what matters most. Chief, I’ve been running short of funds lately." Having joined the Five Elements Alliance for only half a month, he still hadn’t received his salary—remained a financially strained student. "Chief," Zhang Yuanqing said, looking toward Wang Tai whose face remained expressionless, "I've just passed through an S-level Spirit Realm. Shall we gather tonight? I’ll host—the meal is on me, though I’d like you to cover it first until my bonuses are paid." "I'll bring the check later." "Would you join us, Wang Tai?" "No," Wang Tai shook his head. "You're being unreasonable—such gatherings should be part of regular routines. You need to socialize, build relationships, and expand your network. After dinner, I’ll take you to a seafood merchant for some relaxation." "I’m socially anxious." "Socially anxious? Really? What could possibly be so fearsome? What are you afraid of?" "I'm afraid of people like you." "...?" At this moment, Li Dongze smiled and said: "A gathering will work—though I need not cover the cost. Our second group is hosting a distinguished guest tonight—who specifically requested that Wang Tai host the event. However, given your knowledge of Wang Tai’s personality, it's clear he would struggle to manage such an occasion. Therefore, after discussing with Guan Ya, we’ve decided to join him. "Since you've come, why not attend as well?" "What kind of guest?" Zhang Yuanqing asked curiously. Guan Ya seized her opportunity and smiled: "It’s the daughter of a Spirit Realm Walker family—of noble lineage." "A noble daughter?" Zhang Yuanqing chuckled, tapping Wang Tai gently on the waist. "You’re so broad-featured—you never noticed your nose is quite prominent! How did you manage to catch up with a young lady from a well-established household?" Wang Tai remained expressionless: "I don’t need you to repeat what the Chief and Guan Ya have already said." He sighed in relief: "I’ve had no contact with the Shě Zhāng Province Xie family. I can't understand why Miss Xie would specifically seek me out." Guan Ya chuckled, mocking: "With your memory—how could you possibly remember someone you've met? Besides, this is a good opportunity, Wang Tai! Work hard to secure yourself a match at the Xie household." "Oh my—what a wonderful career path!" Li Dongze said with amusement. The Xie family? Zhang Yuanqing felt a sudden shift in his heart—and quickly asked: "So what exactly is the Xie family’s background?" Li Dongze, never one to fall behind on employee education, explained: "The Xie family is as much a Spirit Realm Walker dynasty as the Fu family. Each year, they regularly produce numerous musicians—possessing strong capabilities. Though not an official organization per se, the Xie family holds steady ties with both the Five Elements Alliance and Taiyi Gate." "An officially recruited clan from the grasslands..." Zhang Yuanqing understood—he now suspected that the Xie family’s young lady was likely a gentle, soft-spoken 'green tea' type. The Xie family's daughter—part of an informal organization—specifically requested to see Wang Tai. Given her stature and clear intent, it was most likely Miss Xie Lingxi herself. Has she actually come knocking on our door? Zhang Yuanqing frowned slightly, pondered for a moment, and decided to visit the young 'green tea' personally. With such a prestigious lineage firmly determined—should she insist on investigating him—he would have no choice but to face her. In fact, he didn’t even need to actively pursue—it was sufficient simply to browse posts on the official Five Elements Alliance Forum; soon enough, he’d learn that Wang Tai’s true identity was Yuan Shi Tian Zun. Since avoidance had become impossible—why not meet with resolve? First, because the Xie family is a semi-official organization, more reliable than independent or grassroots practitioners. Secondly, given his current standing and visibility within the organization, there was no need to hide—he could present himself confidently. Miss Xie Lingxi might not have any ill will toward him either. Exactly an opportunity to gauge her intentions—Zhang Yuanqing thought. Staying at work until evening, as the sun dipped low like blood, Zhang Yuanqing sent a text message to his aunt, asking her to inform his grandparents that his beloved nephew would be staying late and wouldn’t return for dinner. Then, he boarded Li Dongze’s business vehicle—heading toward the destination: Huayu Hotel. "What have you done today to make my mother so angry?" His aunt asked via message. "Not much," Zhang Yuanqing replied. "Nothing at all! She has even accused your family of being a disgrace—the very honorific that belongs to my brother!" Truthfully, it had been nothing—only the audio effect from a minor film clip had played loudly throughout. Zhang Yuanqing casually said: "I’m simply the heir to my uncle’s legacy—this title will one day pass from uncle to nephew. I won’t dwell on it—I'm off to meet that lovely young lady now." "Beautiful young lady?" His aunt sent back a series of expressive emoticons. Huayu Hotel was a five-star hotel—a standard room started at 1,500 yuan, with suites priced over 3,000 yuan—offering facilities such as fitness centers, lounges, wellness spas, and self-service dining. Among the guests entering and exiting the revolving doors, there were not only corporate professionals but also women in sleek dresses, heavily made-up. The rooftop restaurant at the hotel is now fully booked. Zhang Yuanqing and the others take the elevator, guided by staff members, to the restaurant entrance. As they arrive, a server opens the door, revealing an expansive and opulent dining space bathed in soft lighting, with thick, plush carpets stretching from floor to ceiling. Four elegant female servers stand at either side of the entrance, their faces radiant and attractive. By a massive floor-to-ceiling window, a young woman stands quietly, gazing out over Songhai City under the night sky. She wears a neat sailor’s uniform—black skirt reaching her knees, a white blouse with a black bow at the neckline, and long, flowing black hair cascading gently over her shoulders. The soft light from above highlights her face, smooth as jade, delicate and refined. Simple, graceful, and charming—she embodies every beauty of a blossoming springtime girl. As she hears the door open, she turns to look, her eyes sparkling with brightness, and a warm, joyful smile spreads across her face. She rushes toward them excitedly, exclaiming: “Wang Tai brother!” Li Dongze raises an eyebrow, looking at Wang Tai beside him—his expression filled with surprise. He now realizes he must reevaluate the nature of Wang Tai’s relationship with the Shě family's daughter. It seems his subordinate has been quietly mastering the art of charming women all along—far more than anyone anticipated. Guan Ya gasps softly, a teasing smile playing on her lips as she looks at Wang Tai, murmuring in a lower tone: “Little underestimated you, Mr. Shě’s son-in-law.” Wang Tai stands utterly bewildered—he has no idea what is going on here. At that moment, they notice the Shě family’s eldest daughter has completely ignored him and instead stops in front of Zhang Yuan Yuanqing, gently taking his sleeve and warmly calling out: “I found you at last, Wang Tai brother.”