Fu Qingyang was waiting for a reply, and after the ring tone lasted several seconds, the line connected immediately. He opened with: “How about it? Has Wu Hen agreed to step in?” Zhang Yuanqing glanced at Xiao Yuan entering the elevator, and only after the doors closed did he speak: “I told Master Wu Hen that the Luang Hai branch wanted to take on the Magi-Eye King. At first, Master Wu Hen was not willing. I explained that the Magi-Eye had been particularly harsh—having already found my school and nearly killed me. To my surprise, Master Wu Hen immediately agreed.” Fu Qingyang found this surprising as well. After a brief silence, he remarked: “I didn’t expect Wu Hen to value you so much.” If they were meeting face-to-face, as an experienced scout, Fu Qingyang would have sensed that Yuan Shi Tian Zun was lying. Zhang Yuanqing said: “Master Wu Hen gave me a jade token—it serves as the medium connecting us.” As he spoke, he gently stroked the black jade in his hands, smooth and cool to the touch. This token is identical to the one used for the previous teleportation—Xiao Green still has another one, which hasn’t been activated yet. However, the two tokens differ in nature. The one given to Xiao Green comes with a promise: life-saving in case of emergency. Such high-level figures usually stick firmly to their word—so Zhang Yuanqing didn't hesitate; instead, he used Xiao Lingxi’s token to "convince" Master Wu Hen into agreeing. The likely outcome would have been that Master Wu Hen simply took him away and did not intervene in the battle between the Magi-Eye and the Five Elements Alliance. To get Master Wu Hen to help create a illusion to confuse the Magi-Eye King, he needed his personal commitment. Fu Qingyang said: “Keep it safe and bring it back to Luang Hai—deliver it to me.” They then ended their conversation. … In the voice conference room. Mao Tou Tedi summoned the green plants to extend their tendrils, opened the computer, logged into the software, and waited in silence. Four elders soon joined online one after another. “How about it? Has Yuan Shi Tian Zun managed to persuade Wu Hen?” As soon as the elder from the Chì Huǒ Clan appeared, he immediately asked. The other three elders remained silent, waiting for a response. Dog Elder spoke calmly: “Wu Hen has agreed to create an illusion—but only that.” All four elders breathed a sigh of relief. The White Tiger Army elder smiled and said: “That’s more than enough. I still wouldn’t be confident if he were to join the battle personally. Now, it depends on whether Master of Zhishake Palace can guide the Magi-Eye King to the agreed location.” Lo Shen Elder remarked: “This step is crucial—hope that woman doesn’t make a mistake.” Zhong Ting Elder asked: “What are Wu Hen’s terms?” Dog Elder replied: “None.” Zhong Ting Elder immediately grew alert: “None?” Lo Shen Elder from the Water God Palace interjected: “Given the style of ‘Past Without Trace,’ it would be impossible for him to act spontaneously—how could he have no conditions at all?” They had chosen Yuan Shi Tian Zun precisely because he has a close relationship with that small team, making negotiations and discussion possible. With anyone else, they simply wouldn’t even meet the elusive figure. Yuan Shi Tian Zun’s influence means exactly this. But the fact that ‘Past Without Trace’ agreed to assist without any conditions was entirely unexpected. Dog Elder explained: “Fu Qingyang indeed said so—and he just mentioned this point to us. According to Fu Qingyang, when Master Wu Hen heard that Yuan Shi Tian Zun had nearly perished at the hands of the Magi-Eye King, he immediately agreed. This shows an extraordinary level of regard for Yuan Shi Tian Zun—what do you all think?” Lo Shen Elder expressed surprise: “As a master of the Evil Organization, this level of importance is unexpected—not only unwarranted.” The White Tiger Army elder showed some caution: “Given how much he values Yuan Shi Tian Zun, could it be that he’s trying to recruit us?” This elder first considered the possibility of being undermined. Dog Elder added his perspective: “In my opinion, there aren’t many complicated maneuvers involved—Yuan Shi Tian Zun is exceptionally good at social interactions. Not only Wu Hen, but also Master of Zhishake Palace, has a close relationship with him. During the Copper Pavilion incident, Wu Hen owed Yuan Shi Tian Zun one personal favor—which he is likely returning now. This clearly indicates an immense goodwill and deep regard for Yuan Shi Tian Zun.” Hearing this, the White Tiger Army elder felt reassured and smiled: “This young man really excels at building networks.” Dog Elder chuckled: “It’s rare to find a talent who can bow so deeply and humbly.” The atmosphere in the meeting room became relaxed. … At the Wu Hen Hotel, at the front desk. Zhang Yuanqing leaned lazily against the dedicated rest chair—long used by Xiao Yuan—and the lingering scent of subtle fragrance remained. He picked up a glass of juice and took a sip, watching the well-defined back silhouette and full, rounded buttoons of the figure wearing slightly loose pants—something only an exceptional woman could achieve. “Ms. Xiao Yuan, it seems the hotel’s business isn’t doing so well.” During his one-hour rest period, three groups of guests arrived—with some even staying on a per-hour basis. “The city outskirts have limited foot traffic, naturally leading to slower business. Also, if you keep staring at my rear end, I’ll pinch your eye sockets.” Xiao Yuan didn’t turn around, her tone clear and cold. “Ms. Xiao Yuan, you’re mistaken—what I’ve noticed is that the habit of being distorted by this artifact has improved remarkably.” Zhang Yuanqing was watching her back—not out of desire, but to verify whether his experience points (xp) had indeed improved. It’s wonderful—the pigtail imagery in his mind now rarely surfaces… Zhang Yuanqing thought with satisfaction. Through personal experience, he confirmed a trait of the artifact: when the impact on xp is not too strong, and one acts early—abandoning the item promptly—the distortion of xp can be significantly reduced. He had tested this successfully in both Xiao Yuan and Guan Ya. Xiao Yuan laughed lightly: “Even without that artifact, your preference wouldn’t necessarily be normal.” “Why do you say so?” Xiao Yuan said gently: “You seem to have a special fondness for older women—is it because of a childhood lack of maternal love?” “That’s quite harsh—both criticizing my preference and revealing a personal weakness.” Had this been a younger man with a sensitive personality, he would surely be flustered. But Zhang Yuanqing is a naturally confident person, professionally trained never to appear awkward or frozen. He took a sip of the sweet juice and said: “I understand the common belief that one’s choice in partners and sexual orientation begin to develop during childhood—solidifying by adolescence. Thus, many so-called 'abnormal' individuals have an unhappy early life—a truly sad reality. Therefore, it's essential to give children a happy childhood. Of course, I’m not one of those ‘abnormal’ individuals—I genuinely enjoy older women—for when I was young, my father passed away and I relied heavily on my mother. But my mother simply sent me off to live with her family—so I’ve always felt a lack of maternal love. That’s probably the reason.” Xiao Yuan had only casually remarked—and hadn’t expected Zhang Yuanqing to go into such depth. Now she was at a loss for what to say and just turned away from him. Zhang Yuanqing continued talking nonstop: “Does Ms. Xiao Yuan have a boyfriend? Have you married? Do you have any children?” After a brief pause, Xiao Yuan said: “So now, are you trying to court me—someone from the Evil Organization?” “That’s what I find hard to accept. I know your attitude toward the Evil Organization well—you're quite aware that I don’t harbor illusions about it.” “Apologies—I made a mistake. So, are you truly interested in me?” “Ms. Xiao Yuan is beautifully attractive and has an excellent figure—except for her age, she has no weaknesses at all—and age actually adds value to me.” “So what?” Xiao Yuan pulled out the paper cutter from the pen holder. “Well, just… let’s casually chat a bit.” Zhang Yuanqing was flexible. At that moment, a blue-clad delivery person arrived on a motorbike and entered the lobby. The delivery person stormed into the hall, shouting: “Ms. Xiao Yuan—I don’t want to be a delivery driver anymore! Where is Yuan Shi Tian Zun? You’ve got to be kidding!” This young man had a pale complexion, bright eyes, and an energetic appearance—like a sharp-eyed little wolf dog. “How did you end up working as a delivery person?” Zhang Yuanqing asked in surprise. “Stupid—no education, no work experience—what good is that?” Xiao Yuan said with mild disapproval, then turned to Kou Beiyue and remarked coldly: “That’s your choice—but don’t expect me to fund it.” Kou Beiyue expressed her frustration: “I’m not unemployed—I just can’t keep going as a delivery driver. I met an elderly lady who insisted on bringing me in—she wanted to become friends with me, offering two thousand yuan per month. She even touched me! With so many deliveries, I simply couldn’t find time to listen—to her demands. So I walked out—and she gave me a negative review. This job is no longer sustainable!” “That young person still has much to learn—soon you’ll realize the advantages of being wealthy and independent.” Zhang Yuanqing nodded slowly in amazement. Xiao Yuan glanced at him, as if to say: “This is what good matchmaking looks like.” Kou Beiyue removed her cap and placed it on the counter, then walked straight to the fridge. After hesitating between drinks, she chose a 1.5 yuan bottle of water—drank it quickly with great enthusiasm. After taking a deep satisfying breath, he asked: “So what’s this? Why are you here?” “I was coming to court your mother,” Zhang Yuanqing said as he watched the water in her hand. “If you’re short on funds and don’t want to be a delivery driver—why not adjust your moral standards slightly? Explore nearby groups earning ‘black money’—you can borrow from them, after all, most of that money comes from ordinary people’s resources.” Kou Beiyue laughed: “What a strange idea! Both stealing and borrowing cost you points in your moral score.” Zhang Yuanqing then asked: “How many moral points did the Copper Pavilion case grant you?” “1300.” “And do you usually engage in such activities?” “You’re saying I’m being treated as if I’m an idealist.” “That’s exactly right—since you don’t typically act against your values, what use is it to save up all those points? Just let them go stale. Even a third of the 1300 points could help improve your standard of living. When you spend them wisely, it’s a solid strategy.” Kou Beiyue paused and found his argument convincing—then responded: “That’s foolish—it’s like one-time transaction with limited return.” “Then, use half of what you earn to support charitable causes—that way, you’ll regain your moral points. Even if not as much as from actual theft, it ensures a consistent flow of income. With 1300 points used repeatedly in this manner, you’d never worry about your living expenses for at least one year.” Kou Beiyue sat silent, deep in thought. Xiao Yuan looked at Zhang Yuanqing with an odd expression: “You shouldn’t use such cleverness here—you should apply it to the larger path of righteousness.” “Just let’s casually chat,” Zhang Yuanqing said as he finished his juice and prepared to leave. “Wait a moment,” Xiao Yuan added: “The case involving Ms. Kou Beiyue has already been concluded—despite official reviews, they won’t recognize that she was harmed by the official staff, nor admit that the head of the Luang Hai Bureau fabricated evidence. Without a reversal, she’ll never be able to see her parents again. Can you help with this?” Kou Beiyue looked at her anxiously. Zhang Yuanqing said after a moment: “Don’t worry about it making news—but we can revise the case files so that the Luang Hai Bureau formally informs Ms. Kou Beiyue’s family. If you agree, I’ll take up the effort.” Kou Beiyue responded quickly: “That would be more than enough…that would be more than enough…” “That would indeed be sufficient,” Zhang Yuanqing thought as he saw the quiet dignity and helplessness in her eyes—his bright mood now dimmed. Without further words, he quietly left the hotel. … At Luang Hai. The Magi-Eye King wandered from building to building, searching aimlessly. He received a call: “Your target has moved—the woman just left Luang Hai by car and is currently on the highway—we’re tracking her.” The Magi-Eye King nodded: “Keep monitoring—let me know if anything changes.” After hanging up, he continued his search. About half an hour later, the phone rang again. “The staff has been lost,” the subordinate said urgently. “We couldn’t reach them—now they’re missing.” As the Magi-Eye King tied on his headband, he said: “They’re gone—they’ve already passed away. I know where the target is now. The rest of this matter—I’ll handle personally.” He planted a mark on the members assigned to track him. When that mark vanished, it meant the tracker had died. The mark he planted on his target remained intact. This indicated that members of Zhishake Palace had detected the tracker and eliminated them—by removing their tails—but failed to notice the mark. The person who acted was not the Master of Zhishake Palace. If it were the Master, he would need to question why that woman showed such special concern for a regular member. And if the tracker remained undetected and successfully uncovered the Zhishake Palace’s base, he would also have to wonder why the Master was so carelessly oblivious. The Magician King of the Twin Eyes launched himself upward with a powerful leap, rushing into the sky like a swift arrow. ... At night, in a village sixty-plus kilometers outside Place. Outside the town, Person_name looked at the ancient red dress of the Master of Zhishake Palace and said: “I’ve summoned it now. Please keep these rules in mind. First, avoid using the word ‘animal’ at all. Second, if you see any rabbits coming by, simply ignore them. Third, when staff members come to speak with you, pay attention to their uniforms. If they wear black uniforms, do not respond—definitely don’t respond. If they wear blue uniforms, reply: ‘I’m fine; I don’t need help.’” Person said: “These are the outer-level rules. Please remember not to go deep into the zoo’s interior.” The Master of Zhishake Palace smiled, showing genuine interest. She asked: “What happens if we go deeper?” Person chuckled warmly: “The zoo has three levels. The outermost corresponds to Level 7 Dominators. The second level is for Level 8—this is currently the area I can control. The innermost core belongs to Level 9, which even I am unable to enter. If you wish to return to the Spirit Realm, just keep going deeper.” Returning to the Spirit Realm means certain death. At that moment, a massive shadow descended, blocking out the moonlight above. This shadow slowly lowered from the sky overhead and settled—without landing on the town at all. It physically pushed the town aside. The original location of the town was now replaced by the shadow, while the actual town had been displaced to a distant place. Once the shadow had settled, it revealed its true form: directly facing Person and the Master of Zhishake Palace stood the zoo’s entrance—a long electric gate closed tightly, with massive stones inscribed with the words ‘Zoo’ beside it. Inside the gate lay lush vegetation. The Master of Zhishake Palace looked toward the deep interior and smiled brightly: “Is Xiaohu Chi inside? Where is he being held? Can I easily eliminate him once I enter?” Person responded seriously: “How you handle him is a matter for the Five Elements Alliance—please don’t complicate it.” The Master of Zhishake Palace laughed lightly: “What if I insist on killing him? If you oppose it, then I will simply refuse to cooperate.” Person’s sparkling button eyes flashed with growing urgency: “I won’t accept any demands.” The Master of Zhishake Palace smiled even more joyfully, covering her mouth in a childlike manner: “You’re so dull—so lacking in humor! Have you been doing dog work for too long that you’ve forgotten how to be playful? I remember you’re very passionate about romance, Person_name—you’re a Wood Demon after all. Do you often have thoughts of reproduction? If so, do you prefer a female puppy or a regular woman?” Person still didn’t fully understand the Master’s spirited nature and couldn’t adapt easily; her fur trembled with effort as she struggled to suppress her urge to calmly assert control over her. At that moment, an elder from the White Tiger Army whispered: “He has arrived! I’ve sensed him.” Elders of the scouting corps hold absolute authority and advantage in detection—even the most perceptive ancient war gods cannot perceive their subtle observations. Person immediately opened her mouth and released a smooth black jade orb. She dropped it to the ground, raised her paw, and snapped it with a clear sound. A gray-white glow spread outward like a tidal wave, sweeping through all areas—every thing lost its color. In just a few breaths, the sky and earth transformed into shades of black and white. A deep, strained voice echoed out: “State your requests.” Person spoke calmly: “Kindly integrate my zoo into part of that distant town, so it becomes one unified whole.” As soon as she finished speaking, the Master of Zhishake Palace was amazed to see her behind—the entire zoo had now taken on the form of varied red-brick houses. Some were lit up with lights; others remained dark. The paved roads wove through and connected between the buildings, blending seamlessly with the distant town as if it were part of a single entity. “Interesting!” she exclaimed. “I can’t tell whether this is real or not.” As she spoke, the fading gray tones slowly receded, restoring the world to its original colors. Person no longer hesitated: “Enter!” The Master of Zhishake Palace stepped forward without hesitation and vanished into the town. Person then moved toward the distance. About fifteen minutes later, a small car arrived along a straight asphalt road, entering the town without stopping. A while afterward, a figure descended from the sky, landing outside the town. This figure wore a black short-sleeved shirt, gray athletic pants, and a sports headband around their forehead—sun-kissed and charismatic—the very person of the Magician King of the Twin Eyes. He removed his headband to reveal twin vertical eyes radiating bright red beams. These beams swept through the town for some time before shifting toward the open countryside beyond. No other presence was detected, only the Master of Zhishake Palace remained within the town—then smiled and said: “I’ve found you!” With a simple footstep, he surged forward like a projectile, rushing into the heart of the town.