The Yan Family Residence.
Yan Geng had just finished secretly catching up on the latest novel chapters in his room. Unable to contain himself, he ran to Yan Huai's door and knocked.
"What is it?"
"Brother Huai, I have some questions about cultivation I'd like to ask you."
"Come in."
Yan Geng entered and closed the door, asking mysteriously, "Brother Huai, have you finished reading the new update?"
"...Weren't you asking about cultivation?"
"One thing at a time," Yan Geng lowered his voice. "Did you read it or not?"
"Yes."
Yan Geng grew excited. "So, what do you think? Does 'the southwest' really refer to the Guiyuan Sect?"
Yan Huai didn't respond.
"The family head received the invitation, right?" Yan Geng asked expectantly. "You're going tomorrow, aren't you? That means you'll get to see the expert?"
Yan Huai: "Mm."
"Sigh, do you think the expert guessed tomorrow's gathering is a trap, and that's why she used that metaphor in the story?"
What does 'dark aura' mean?
It means misfortune is impending.
The Guiyuan Sect is such a massive sect, abundant in spiritual energy and talented individuals. How could disaster possibly strike there?
But Qi Quan didn't name names. No matter how furious they were, the Guiyuan Sect couldn't openly retaliate.
'The southwest' covers a vast area.
"Brother Huai, how high do you think the expert's cultivation level really is? Can she win?"
Yan Huai: "I don't know."
"Sigh, I really wish I could go and observe," Yan Geng lamented.
Those attending tomorrow's 'trap banquet' would surely be the sect leaders of major sects, the heads of various families, and their core elite disciples. He definitely wouldn't have a chance to go.
Yan Huai: "I'll take you."
"Really?!" Yan Geng was overjoyed.
"Mm."
Yan Geng beamed with delight. "Haha, tomorrow we'll get to watch a good show! I'd really like to see the expressions on the faces of the Guiyuan Sect people right now."
Guiyuan Sect.
After listening to his disciple's report, Yin Yi's refined, smiling expression became slightly strained.
"She really said that?"
The disciple nodded. "She only mentioned a dark aura in the southwest, but based on the context, it should be referring to our Guiyuan Sect."
"..."
Yin Yi pondered for a moment, then said, "It's merely a young person's provocation. Pay it no mind. We have distinguished guests to receive tomorrow. Is everything prepared?"
"Everything is ready."
"Good, you may leave."
The disciple obeyed and left.
A nearby elder remarked, "That girl is quite audacious."
"Geniuses are always arrogant about their talent. They think they can break conventions and establish new rules," said another elder.
Yin Yi said, "A twenty-two-year-old Level Seven Celestial Master does indeed have the capital to be arrogant."
"Hmph, tomorrow I'll see for myself!"
The next morning.
Qi Quan, dressed in smoke-blue casual wear and white sneakers, got into Li Guoyan's car.
Naturally, Ling Sheng accompanied her as always.
Others invited to attend were Di Meng and Ning Zhi, both Level Five investigators, considered the face of the Investigation Department.
They were in another car.
The cars drove towards Guiyuan Mountain in the southwest.
Qi Quan glanced at the car behind them and said, "You brought Lu Jiang?"
"Yes," Li Guoyan replied with a smile. "He is a Level Seven elder of the Guiyuan Sect, and a rare formation master at that. Whether for the sake of their reputation or for talent, the Guiyuan Sect will want to win him back. Bringing him is also to serve as a witness at the end."
He paused, glancing at Qi Quan in the rearview mirror.
"Master, this trip might be somewhat... challenging."
...
Qi Quan smiled. "It certainly will be challenging. The dark aura shrouding them is a fact."
Li Guoyan secretly breathed a sigh of relief. "It seems the Master has a well-thought-out plan."
Qi Quan didn't answer.
She hadn't written nonsense in her story last night. Observing the Guiyuan Sect's fortune, it would indeed begin to decline from today onward.
But a starved camel is still bigger than a horse.
As the number one major sect, even with diminished fortune, it would remain a colossal entity.
Before long, the cars arrived at the mountain gate.
A formation was set up before the gate, invisible to ordinary people. Even if someone stumbled upon this place, they would be guided in another direction.
The stone steps before the gate were high, leading down to a spacious parking lot where several luxury cars were already parked.
Li Guoyan got out of the car, standing tall and straight, his aura fully unleashed.
Today, at this 'trap banquet,' he was likely the only ordinary person present. But having weathered countless battles, he felt no fear.
Qi Quan had attended numerous sect conferences in her past life and saw no reason to feel intimidated.
Her attire was understated, her hair in a ponytail. Aside from her exceptionally striking face, nothing else drew particular attention.
Two disciples were at the mountain gate to receive guests.
One was handsome and amiable; the other gentle-featured and poised.
They had noticed Qi Quan's group when their car parked.
The male disciple whispered, "Is that them?"
The female disciple smiled and nodded. "Yes."
"That one!" The male disciple widened his eyes. "Is that the White Water True Person? She's the only woman."
The female disciple: "It should be."
There were six in the group.
Qi Quan and Li Guoyan walked side by side, with Ling Sheng slightly behind. Di Meng and Ning Zhi flanked Lu Jiang, who was in custody.
“Those two... aren't they the second and third place winners from the Metaphysical World Grand Competition the year before last? I heard they joined the Investigation Department.”
The female disciple: "..."
"And there's one I haven't seen before. Who is that?"
"Damn, isn't that Elder Lu?!" The male disciple's expression changed slightly upon seeing the handcuffs on Lu Jiang's wrists.
Regardless, this was a blatant slap in the face.
The female disciple: "They're here."
The six approached.
The male disciple's curious gaze fell on Qi Quan's face. After only a second of admiration, he suddenly felt a slight sting in his eyes and had to look away, turning his attention to Li Guoyan. The pain subsided.
What was that?
Does the expert not even allow people to look at her?
Suppressing his displeasure, the male disciple stepped forward politely. "Welcome, esteemed guests. The Sect Leader and other distinguished guests are already waiting at the Starview Platform. Please follow me."
After all, they were the premier major sect; they wouldn't stoop to discourtesy in hosting guests.
Qi Quan and her group were the last to arrive.
The moment they stepped through the mountain gate, the sect's grand formation suddenly activated, sealing off the outside world's prying eyes but also trapping everyone within the sect grounds.
The Starview Platform was the Guiyuan Sect's internal competition arena.
In the center was a raised stage, surrounded by spectator stands—essentially no different from a sports stadium.
There was also a separate viewing platform where several prominent figures of the metaphysical world were already seated.
Guiyuan Sect Leader Yin Yi occupied the host's seat. Master Wan of the Xuanqing Sect, Master Yu of the Hengfeng Sect, the Heads of the Yan, Fu, and Zhou Families were seated on either side.
Two seats remained empty.
Master Wan said, "Sect Leader Yin, if I recall correctly, your sect's internal competitions usually start next month."
Next February would be the triennial Metaphysical World Grand Competition. Each sect and family would first select their elite talents internally before sending them to compete.
The Guiyuan Sect's internal selection typically took place in late October.
Yin Yi, maintaining an elegant demeanor, replied, "A surprise test isn't... a bad way to assess them either."
"That makes sense," the Head of the Yan Family said with a smile, turning to ask, "Brother Fu, when does the selection contest in your family begin?"
Fu Jiuchong replied expressionlessly, "Unchanged."
"Will Luanfei be competing next year?"
"Mm."
Yan Fengjun praised, "I heard she's already reached Level Four. Truly a young prodigy."
Fu Jiuchong: "..."
In the spectator stands, Yan Geng leaned close to Yan Huai and whispered, "Brother Huai, by letting us observe their internal competition now, isn't the Guiyuan Sect worried about losing their edge for next year's Grand Competition?"
Other sects have now clearly seen the Guiyuan Sect's techniques and will certainly study tactics based on them.
Yan Huai: "Today is only for intimidation."
Yan Geng thought for a moment, "That's true."
The Guiyuan Sect has an extremely large number of disciples within its ranks. On the surface, this is an internal competition, but in reality, it's meant to flex their muscles for the Investigation Department. As for whether it's a genuine selection tournament, no one really cares.
The Guiyuan Sect also certainly won't reveal their true strength.
"Brother Huai, look over there. Isn't that Fu Luanfei?"
Yan Huai: "Mm."
"And Liu Qiang, the top disciple of Guiyuan Sect; Hu Ying from the Xuanqing Sect; Feng Ke from the Hengfeng Sect; Zhou Xu from the Zhou family, and so on. The core disciples from the top three sects and families are all here," Yan Geng said with great interest.
The spectator stands were divided into different sections. Disciples from various sects and families carved the seating into several large blocks, with a subtle sense of confrontation between them, none willing to yield to the others.
Of course, no one dared to challenge Yan Huai.
Yan Huai had no interest in the others. Sitting ramrod straight, his gaze fell on the miniature peach wood sword on his wrist, and a flicker of excitement actually began to rise within him.
Was it because she was coming?
"She's here!" Yan Geng suddenly whispered urgently.
Yan Huai turned to look.
A group of six people had just stepped into the Stargazing Platform and immediately captured the attention of the entire crowd.
Li Guoyan was tall and robust, his brow radiating righteous authority, his presence as unshakable as a mountain.
Beside him was a tall, exceptionally beautiful young woman. She wore simple, low-key casual clothes, her hair in a ponytail, no different from a university student in her early twenties.
Was this Qi Quan?!
The entire arena wore expressions of bewilderment.
This wasn't quite what they had imagined!
The imagined level-seven master should have been a cold, cultivation-obsessed robot like Yan Huai, not the image of a vibrant, youthful young woman.
Had Qi Quan not come today?
Was she just an ordinary investigator from the Investigation Department?
Yet, from the way she walked shoulder-to-shoulder with Li Guoyan, one could see her transcendent status within the Department.
Qi Quan was actually such a master!
Her demeanor was relaxed, her steps leisurely, as if she were attending not some potential trap, but an open-air dance.
Both male and female disciples gazed at her with fervent eyes.
Firstly, because of her top-tier looks, and secondly, because of her supreme cultivation level.
No matter where you are, the strong are always respected.
Guided by a Guiyuan Sect disciple, Qi Quan slowly ascended to the highest viewing platform in the arena.
The big shots from various sects and schools were all up there.
She could already feel the scrutinizing gazes bearing down from above.
The big shots' pressure gradually began to manifest—this was meant to put the Investigation Department in their place...
The people on the viewing platform were all at level seven or above. The pressure from a single one of them could already overwhelm an ordinary person, let alone several combined.
Even someone as tough as Li Guoyan couldn't withstand the combined pressure of these mystic realm masters.
His steps became extremely heavy, sweat faintly beading at his temples.
Qi Quan suddenly lifted her gaze, locking eyes with someone on the platform. The aura of someone surpassing level nine erupted in full force, directly pressing down on the level-seven big shots on the viewing platform. It enveloped everyone from the Investigation Department, leaving out only Lu Jiang, whose spiritual power was sealed.
"Pfft—"
Lu Jiang violently spat out a mouthful of blood, staining the clean steps crimson.
Under Qi Quan's overwhelming pressure, his legs turned to jelly, unable to take a single step forward. He could only let Ning Zhi and Di Meng drag him up.
The big shots on the viewing platform weren't faring much better.
Facing pressure surpassing level nine, even level-seven Heavenly Masters couldn't hold their ground. They exerted all their strength, channeling their entire spiritual power, just barely managing to save face by not vomiting blood or collapsing in front of everyone.
The big shots: "..."
What the hell kind of person is this?!
They instantly withdrew the disdain from their eyes, replacing it with deep apprehension.
To pressure all the level-seven Heavenly Masters single-handedly—what profound cultivation was this?
Could it be... she had already reached level eight?
What did level eight mean? It represented the existence of the strongest in the mystic realm!
Where on earth did the Investigation Department dig up such a genius?
No, this was no longer just a genius.
This was a monster!
On the viewing platform, Sect Leader Yin Yi's face paled as he struggled to swallow back the blood rising in his throat. His earlier intention to put on a show of force completely evaporated.
He had originally thought that a twenty-two-year-old level-seven Heavenly Master, no matter how talented, couldn't compare to old-timers like them.
Who could have imagined that these old-timers would make such fools of themselves.
In the mystic realm, strength is revered.
Sect Leader Yin Yi privately didn't wish to make an enemy of such a master. He quickly adjusted his attitude and, with a smile, personally stood up to welcome Qi Quan, who had just stepped onto the platform.
"Honored guests have arrived, and we failed to greet you properly!" He looked kindly and amiable, his smile quite approachable, making people feel favorable towards him.
The other big shots: ???
As expected of the number one major sect, their face-changing speed is truly impressive.
The Head of the Yan Family wore a smile, watching the others' ugly expressions with great interest.
Yu Lanzhi of the Hengfeng Sect had the palest face, followed by the Head of the Zhou Family. Master Wan of the Xuanqing Sect showed shock, while Fu Jiuchong remained expressionless as ever.
During the earlier show of force, only Yan Fengjun and Fu Jiuchong had not acted.
Qi Quan was someone who clearly distinguished gratitude from grievance. Her pressure, surpassing level nine, did not weigh down on those two, so they did not experience the awkward state of being nearly crushed to the point of spitting blood.
However, as level-seven big shots themselves, they could sense the undercurrents swirling inside and outside the arena. When the pressure surpassing level nine swept past them, it raised goosebumps all over their bodies.
Seeing the discomfited expressions of the others, if the occasion allowed, Yan Fengjun probably wouldn't have hesitated to laugh out loud.
The covert clash concluded with Qi Quan utterly crushing everyone.
Facing Sect Leader Yin's smiling face, Qi Quan gave a slight nod, then turned to Li Guoyan: "Director Li, the hospitality of the number one major sect is indeed refreshingly unique."
Everyone: "..."
Li Guoyan couldn't hold back a smile, the corners of his mouth quirking up slightly, a hint of amusement appearing in his eyes. He cleared his throat and said, "We've certainly witnessed it today. It's just hard on Elder Lu."
...
Lu Jiang: "..."
Di Meng couldn't hold back a laugh, revealing two rows of neat teeth. He dragged the weak-legged Lu Jiang out, tossed him on the ground, and asked, "When does the competition start?"
Seeing a sect elder lying on the ground like a dead pig, Yin Yi's eyelid twitched. The smile on his face was about to slip, his voice turning stiff as he asked, "What is the meaning of this, Director Li?"
"Nothing much," Li Guoyan's face returned to seriousness. "Your esteemed sect wished for Elder Lu to return to the mountain, so I brought him."
Before Yin Yi could speak, he instructed Di Meng and Ning Zhi: "You two take Elder Lu to watch the competition first. We'll discuss matters after the competition."
"Yes."
Di Meng and Ning Zhi then dragged Lu Jiang away from the viewing platform.
Sect Leader Yin could only watch helplessly as Lu Jiang was taken away, unable to say a word.
Qi Quan's counterattack from earlier still left him with lingering fear.
He changed the subject, looking at Ling Sheng who remained on the platform, and asked, "And this is?"
There were only two empty seats left on the viewing platform, reserved for Qi Quan and Li Guoyan.
Qi Quan: "My assistant."
Yin Yi then said, "Then we'll add another chair."
He was a pragmatic man. Since he couldn't win in a fight, it was better to correct his attitude and leave a good impression.
Qi Quan: "Sorry to trouble you."
A Guiyuan Sect disciple quickly brought up a chair, and the three of them took their seats.
Originally, the positions of the two chairs were set slightly lower. Whether intentional or not, when the disciples placed the new chairs, they subtly adjusted the other two as well.
Qi Quan and Li Guoyan were now almost level with Yin Yi. As an "assistant," Ling Sheng naturally sat just slightly lower than Qi Quan.
The other big shots: "..."
They were furious but dared not speak up.
In the spectator stands, disciples from various sects were also whispering among themselves.
Yan Geng didn't know about the "pressure and counter-pressure" incident, but that didn't stop him from noticing the shift in the situation before and after.
"Brother Huai, did Elder Lu Jiang just vomit blood?"
"Hmm."
"Brother Huai, why did Sect Leader Yin Yi suddenly change his expression?"
"Brother Huai, Master Yu seems to be in even worse shape."
"Brother Huai, Sect Leader Yin Yi is being so polite to Senior Qi."
"Brother Huai..."
Yan Huai: "..."
On the Fu family's spectator stand, Fu Luanfei silently watched Qi Quan walk onto the viewing platform.
She understood very well what today's competition meant.
The Guiyuan Sect was trying to unite with other sects to put the Investigation Department in its place!
She had been somewhat worried initially, but after seeing Lu Jiang vomit blood and Yin Yi's change in demeanor, she secretly breathed a sigh of relief.
Senior Qi is truly a role model for our generation!
And she's only twenty-two!
Thinking of herself being only Level 4 at eighteen, her sense of urgency grew even stronger.
She would take Senior Qi as her goal, cultivate diligently, and strive to protect those she wanted to protect.
On another side, disciples of the Hengfeng Sect were also whispering.
"Why is our sect leader frowning?"
"The sect leader seems to have stumbled a bit."
"This Senior Qi seems incredibly formidable."
"No wonder she subdued the Wetland Fierce Ghost so easily."
"It's no accident Junior Brother Wei ran into her."
Feng Ke frowned and said, "What do you mean 'ran into her'? He broke the law himself."
"Senior Brother Feng is right."
On the viewing platform, Qi Quan and the other two had already taken their seats. Yin Yi, his mind elsewhere, instructed his disciples: "Begin the competition."
After that earlier episode, this display of strength had lost all meaning.
Even if the sect had many elite disciples, they couldn't compare to a single Qi Quan.
He wasn't even sure if she had used her full power earlier, nor could he guess how profound her cultivation truly was.
In the face of a supreme master, any number of lower-level cultivators seemed utterly insignificant.
His heart was heavy, and the other sect leaders and family heads weren't feeling any better.
Yan Fengjun's gaze fell on Yan Huai in the spectator stands, and he sighed inwardly.
His son was considered the strongest among his peers, but unfortunately, he had encountered a prodigy like Qi Quan.
Yet, having a rival was better than having none.
Yan Huai had been number one for too long; it wasn't good for him.
He could see that the fighting spirit within Yan Huai had been growing more intense these past few days, almost to the point of being unbearable.
Fu Jiuchong remained expressionless, not sparing an extra glance for anyone.
With the sound of a distant bell, the intra-sect selection competition officially began.
The intra-sect competition was to select outstanding young cultivators for the grand Mystic Arts Tournament. Participants were mostly Level 3 or above Masters.
In the eyes of high-level Masters, the matches between low-level Masters were rather dull.
Qi Quan only watched a few moments before focusing wholeheartedly on her cultivation.
Li Guoyan, however, watched with great interest, his eyes fixed on the battles on the competition stage.
To be honest, it was quite a spectacle—just too many flashy, soft, cumbersome moves without much combat effectiveness.
The other big shots didn't watch much either, occasionally observing Qi Quan and Li Guoyan from the corners of their eyes.
The former's expression never changed; the latter watched with relish but showed no signs of being intimidated.
Ah, what a defeat!
There weren't many Level 3 or above Masters among the younger generation to begin with, and Sect Leader Yin Yi couldn't possibly send them all out at once, so the competition soon drew to a close.
Yu Lanzhi suddenly said, "Sect Leader Yin, I have a suggestion."
"Brother Yu, please speak."
"Everyone is here today, and each family's core disciples have been brought along, as have the Investigation Department's elites. This is a great opportunity. Why don't we have a friendly spar? As the saying goes, you don't really know someone until you've crossed blows with them."
He turned to Li Guoyan. "We don't know much about the Investigation Department. Director Li, could you give us this chance to understand each other?"
Li Guoyan asked, "How does Master Yu propose we do that?"
He had anticipated this move when he came today.
Di Meng and Ning Zhi were already the highest-level investigators in the Investigation Department. If they couldn't match the core disciples of the various families, it would undoubtedly put the Investigation Department at a disadvantage.
But they were only Level 5.
Yan Huai from the Yan Family, Liu Qiang from the Guiyuan Sect, and Hu Ying from the Xuanqing Sect were all Level 6. Feng Ke from the Hengfeng Sect, though Level 5, was approaching Level 6.
Only the Fu and Zhou Family disciples were below Level 5.
But just the first four were enough that Di Meng and Ning Zhi might not be able to hold their own.
Now that Qi Quan sat as an equal with the big shots, it was tacitly understood she wouldn't participate in the younger generation's competition.
Yu Lanzhi said, "My head disciple, Feng Ke, is at Level 5, Third Stage. He would like to experience the Investigation Department's prowess for himself."
He infused his voice with spiritual energy as he spoke, ensuring it carried far enough for everyone present to hear.
Feng Ke, who was suddenly named: ???
No, he really didn't want to. He just wanted to cultivate in peace. Fighting and killing weren't for him.
But the sect leader had given an order; he dared not disobey.
He could only stiffen his face, rise, and fly down to the Star-Gazing Platform. His movements were crisp, his appearance handsome, winning cheers from many in the crowd.
Truly worthy of being the Hengfeng Sect's chief disciple.
Li Guoyan smiled. "Di Meng, Level 5, Second Stage."
Di Meng stood up, casually swinging his miniature peachwood hammer as he sauntered onto the Star-Gazing Platform.
He had a crew cut, a high nose bridge, and deep-set eyes, suggesting some ethnic minority heritage. Paired with his casual demeanor, he had a roguishly handsome air.
As the runner-up in the Mystic Arts Tournament two years prior, many recognized him.
As a rogue cultivator, achieving second place in the grand tournament had earned Di Meng the respect of many peers and the appreciation of sects and families back then. Some had even extended olive branches to him, but he had refused them all.
Who would have thought that such a seemingly untamed young man had joined the Investigation Department so early?
Feng Ke wasn't from Di Meng's generation, but since Wei Huanyang had placed fourth in that tournament, he had a rather deep impression of Di Meng.
He bowed with great courtesy. "Feng Ke of the Hengfeng Sect. I seek your guidance."
Di Meng casually cupped his hands in return, a grin spreading across his face. "Sure thing."
Feng Ke: "..."
The crowd: "..."
The system asked nervously, [Great One, Di Meng is one stage lower than Feng Ke. Could he lose?]
Qi Quan: [No.]
Although Di Meng was a stage lower, he had undergone the Investigation Department's professional training. Having also fought the Wetland Fierce Ghost before—even if it was a two-on-one fight with Ning Zhi—the fact that he could hold out for so long under the pressure of a Level 6 Fierce Ghost spoke volumes about his spiritual energy control and combat skills.
[That's good!]
Sure enough, once the two exchanged blows, the difference became apparent to everyone.
Feng Ke exerted himself to the utmost, while Di Meng appeared relaxed and at ease.
It was as if their cultivation levels had been reversed.
A hint of a smile appeared on Li Guoyan's honest-looking face.
The elite soldiers of their Investigation Department were all capable of fighting one against two and challenging those above their level. Di Meng was a master among them.
Whispers started up again in the spectator stands.
Yan Geng said, "Brother Huai, during the Mystic Arts Tournament, I saw Di Meng couldn't beat you and thought he wasn't that impressive. Looking at it now, he's really quite formidable."
Behind him, other disciples said, "Back then he was only at the fifth level, first tier, while Brother Huai was already at the sixth level. Fighting across a whole level naturally put him at a disadvantage. That Feng Ke is only at the fifth level, third tier. Now there's just a one-tier difference between them, so it should be easy for Di Meng, right?"
"Exactly. Back then, Di Meng held out for so long against Brother Huai, unwilling to fall even when covered in blood. He's a truly tenacious person."
Yan Huai: "Hmm."
He understood his opponents.
Di Meng possessed an unyielding resilience, making him a cultivator worthy of respect.
Yan Geng's level was low, so two years ago he hadn't grasped all these intricacies. Hearing this now, he couldn't help but feel a surge of respect for Di Meng.
Looking back at the Star-Gazing Platform, Di Meng subdued his opponent with a single move. His peachwood hammer struck Feng Ke's shoulder, sending Feng Ke flying backwards, a trickle of blood escaping the corner of his mouth.
Feng Ke's face paled. He instinctively glanced at Yu Lanzhi's expression, his heart sinking. In a hoarse voice, he said, "I concede defeat."
Di Meng put away his playful smile, his expression turning solemn. "I accept your courtesy."
The entire arena fell silent.
In the viewing stand, Yu Lanzhi's expression remained unchanged, but everyone could sense his frustration and humiliation.
He looked at Li Guoyan. "The second-place finisher from that year's Grand Competition, who refused invitations from several families... who would have thought he'd join the Investigation Department? I heard the third-place finisher was also recruited by the Investigation Department. The Investigation Department truly is teeming with talent."
Li Guoyan was completely unfazed by this veiled sarcasm. He replied, "People have their own aspirations. The Mystic Realm is full of hidden dragons and crouching tigers. Losing two talents surely isn't a major concern."
Yu Lanzhi: "..."
Just as he was about to speak again, Yan Fengjun suddenly said, "Advisor Qi, I wonder if you could do this humble Yan a small favor?"
Qi Quan looked at him but didn't answer.
She was only here to watch the competition and had no desire to become the focus of attention on the Star-Gazing Platform.
Asking her to take the stage? Impossible.
Yan Fengjun naturally understood her meaning, but thinking of his son, he still mustered the courage to ask, "This humble Yan has a son, Yan Huai, who wishes to learn from your esteemed assistant's skills."
...
He was referring to Ling Sheng.
Since the big shot couldn't be moved, he'd try asking the assistant.
Ling Sheng was wearing a talisman Qi Quan had given him, so the senior figures couldn't tell if he had any cultivation.
But since he could follow such a master, he certainly wasn't an ordinary person.
Qi Quan: "No."
Yan Fengjun: "..."
He was in a rather difficult position.
Yan Huai had no match among sixth-level Masters within the family. However, the family's seventh-level experts were either in seclusion or pursuing quiet cultivation. That left only himself. He couldn't bring himself to fight his son seriously, and because they shared the same lineage and techniques, familiar with each other's moves, it wouldn't serve to stimulate his son's potential.
That's why he wanted to seize this opportunity to enlist external help.
Who would have thought Qi Quan would refuse outright.
The scene fell into a wordless awkwardness.
The system suddenly said, [Big shot, this Head of the Yan Family previously donated 100 million to the charity fund. Today, he also didn't go along with the others in trying to put you in your place. I actually have an idea that could satisfy him without requiring you or Ling Sheng to take action, and even earn you some lifespan.]
Qi Quan: [...Go on.]
[Release the Wetland Fierce Ghost!]
Qi Quan's mind stirred.
Right. What's interesting about Masters fighting Masters? Masters should fight fierce ghosts to improve their ghost-subduing skills.
She spoke unhurriedly.
"Mr. Yan, do you wish to temper your son, or do you wish for him to be defeated on this high platform?"
Yan Fengjun quickly replied, "To temper him, of course."
He didn't want his son to be beaten to a pulp, mocked by others, and have his confidence shattered.
Qi Quan: "I have my rules."
Yan Fengjun: "Please state them."
Li Guoyan had a sudden flash of understanding. He knew what Qi Quan was planning to do. This wasn't a bad solution—it wouldn't require her to act personally, wouldn't offend the dignity of the top family, and could also establish the Investigation Department's authority.
He proactively answered for Qi Quan: "Since it's guidance, naturally a guidance fee is required."
Yan Fengjun was taken aback for a moment, then smiled. "Of course."
"The guidance fee needs to be paid through the platform of Screaming Literature City."
Yan Fengjun: ???
Everyone: ???
What was that?
In the audience seats, Yan Huai, upon hearing this, didn't hesitate. He recharged one million and poured it all into "The Diary of a Wealthy Family," instantly skyrocketing to the top of the tipping leaderboard!
The system promptly announced: [Big shot, "Yan Huai" tipped you ten thousand deep-water torpedoes!!!]
Ten thousand at once—truly outrageously wealthy!
Qi Quan did the conversion. She had gained another thousand days of lifespan. This trip was worth it.
This Yan Huai was quite perceptive.
Before everyone could react, she threw out a peachwood plaque, which landed on the Star-Gazing Platform.
A ghostly shadow, black tinged with red, suddenly materialized.
"A red ghost! It's a red ghost!"
"Heavens! It's actually a red ghost!"
"That must be at least sixth-level, right?"
"She released a red ghost? She really does like keeping ghosts!"
The disciples below the platform buzzed with discussion, all raising their weapons defensively.
On the viewing stand, Yu Lanzhi's expression changed instantly.
This was the Wetland Fierce Ghost from Longlin City! So it really had been subdued by Qi Quan!
His gaze turned cold and stern as he looked at Qi Quan.
"Master Qi, what is the meaning of this? You release a sixth-level red ghost right before our eyes—are you trying to intimidate the disciples below?"
Li Guoyan, knowing Qi Quan likely couldn't be bothered to deal with him, answered on her behalf: "This action is in imitation of your esteemed sect's methods. We ask Master Yu not to take offense."
"What do you mean?!"
"That night when the formation suddenly loosened, releasing the fierce ghost... the reasons for that, Master Yu knows well in his heart." Li Guoyan's smile faded. "However, the appearance of the fierce ghost did serve as a lesson for our department's investigators, with quite effective results."
...
"......"
The fierce ghost on the Star-Gazing Platform: ???
Using him as a training dummy again!!!
He swept his gaze over the disciples in the audience, then looked up at the senior figures on the viewing stand, and fell silent.
Aside from that terrifying woman, there were several seventh-level Masters present. He didn't dare act out.
But asking him to be a training dummy for so many disciples? He couldn't handle that!
He looked pleadingly at Qi Quan.
Qi Quan spoke up: "You may begin."
Only then did everyone realize—this fierce ghost was completely under Qi Quan's command!
Their admiration instantly soared to new heights.
Moreover, they had all heard what Director Li said just now.
Using a sixth-level fierce ghost to train investigators?
That was so cool!
And it was quite effective?
Whimpering internally, they were so envious!
Many disciples put down their ritual tools, their eyes burning as they stared at the Wetland Fierce Ghost.
In all their lives, they had never even seen such a powerful ghost, let alone fought one.
Anyway, with so many senior figures watching, they definitely wouldn't get hurt.
They wanted a turn too!
The fierce ghost: "..."
Yan Huai ascended the Star-Gazing Platform.
His eyes shone brightly, fixed intently on the quasi-seventh-level Wetland Fierce Ghost.
The man and the ghost were roughly equal in level. However, the fierce ghost had, after all, been jointly suppressed by several sixth-level Masters back in the day. Its inherent abilities were absolutely formidable, and it didn't fall behind when facing Yan Huai.
The battle on the platform grew increasingly intense. This time, the fierce ghost wasn't having its level suppressed, so the fight was thrillingly fierce!
Yan Huai felt the same.
The quasi-seventh-level fierce ghost actually forced him to draw his sword!
Sword light flashed through the air. Pale golden sword radiance pierced towards the fierce ghost's pitch-black form. The fierce ghost couldn't dodge in time, letting out a miserable shriek. A red light flashed over its body, and its aura became even more terrifying.
The disciples below the platform watched, their blood boiling with excitement.
Especially the younger disciples.
They hadn't yet learned worldly sophistication and smoothness. Their passion and fighting spirit still remained. Seeing Yan Huai's fierce battle with the ghost, they were all ignited with a desire to fight.
"The champion is mighty!"
"Brother Yan, you're amazing!"
"That was brilliant!"
In the stands, Yan Fengjun couldn't help but show a satisfied smile.
This sparring match would surely give Yan Huai some valuable insights.
Yu Lanzhi gritted his teeth in silent fury.
Their Wetland's fierce ghost had just become a training partner for the Investigation Department!
Not only did they take what was theirs, but they were also showing off right in front of them. It was utterly humiliating!
The fierce ghost, too, was provoked into a fighting rage.
He became more cautious, starting to play a game of guerrilla tactics with Yan Huai.
He had learned this from those low-level exorcists in the Investigation Department.
Being a training dummy wasn't without its benefits. At the very least, he had never encountered a more cunning and tricky fighting style than that of the Investigation Department's people. He had learned a lot and was now using it against Yan Huai.
The man and the ghost fought with increasing fervor.
The battle only had to end when the sun reached its zenith.
Yan Huai's spiritual power was completely depleted. Drenched in sweat as if pulled from water, he leaned on his sword to support himself. Though his body felt extremely heavy, his spirit was exhilarated.
He had a vague feeling that he would soon break through his bottleneck.
The fierce ghost wasn't faring much better. His ghostly power was nearly exhausted, his spectral form wounded by the sword numerous times, the pain intense.
He looked pitifully towards Qi Quan.
Qi Quan coldly waved her hand. A peachwood talisman struck the ghost, and he returned to the talisman.
Gasps rose from below the stage.
"So cool!"
"That's awesome!"
"I want a fierce ghost as a training partner too!"
...
"People in the Investigation Department are so lucky!"
Li Guoyan seized the moment to say with a smile, "The department holds training sessions for this program every week."
The young disciples: !!!
Li Guoyan added, "Any investigator below level seven can participate in this training program."
The young disciples: !!!
Any level? Is he serious?
They knew all too well that in their own sects or families, lower-level disciples received fewer cultivation resources, let alone such practical experience opportunities.
They were shamelessly tempted.
Sect Master Yin: Numb.
Today's so-called internal competition had turned into a showcase for the Investigation Department.
Now Li Guoyan was poaching talent right in front of them.
He cleared his throat and said clearly, "The Investigation Department's training method is indeed novel and interesting. However, a fierce ghost, having committed countless killings, deserves to have its soul scattered. Allowing it to remain in the mortal realm is somewhat improper."
Li Guoyan smiled.
Trying to argue principles? Fine.
He wholeheartedly agreed, "Sect Master Yin, with your noble character and clear sense of justice, surely you also approve of the Investigation Department's punishment for Lu Jiang?"
Yin Yi: "..."
Li Guoyan pressed his advantage: "Lu Jiang, driven by greed for another's merit, took a life, used forbidden arts to steal merit, secretly formed a pyramid scheme organization, operated the 'Fortune Immortal' public account, defrauded countless people of money, caused many to lose their luck, leading to numerous tragedies. Such an evil exorcist, with countless killings to his name, indeed deserves to have his soul scattered."
Yin Yi: "..."
The other disciples with a conscience felt extremely heavy-hearted.
That's right, someone like that deserves to die without a proper burial!
Yu Lanzhi, however, said, "Since the fierce ghost can be a training partner, presumably a level seven array master like Lu Jiang can also be put to some use, right?"
Everyone: "..."
That... kind of makes sense!
They all looked at Li Guoyan, waiting for his response.
Li Guoyan wasn't thrown off track at all. He said, "That is indeed appropriate. The department's punishment for him is: abolish all cultivation, life imprisonment, with possible sentence reduction based on significant meritorious service."
"What counts as significant meritorious service?" a bold disciple asked.
Li Guoyan: "For example, writing a comprehensive guide on array techniques, allowing more cultivators to learn about arrays."
Everyone: "..."
That's practically no different from recycling waste!
The system indignantly said, [Why not let him die?]
Qi Quan replied, [Death is too easy for him.]
[Huh?]
[He was a level seven array master, originally with a lifespan of nearly 350 years. Once his cultivation is abolished, his lifespan will drastically decrease, to a maximum of 100 years. He's already 65 now. Ji Shengzhe was trapped for 30 years; he should also serve at least 30 years in prison.]
The system understood, excitedly saying, [Oh! Waiting for death day by day is much more torturous than dying immediately!]
Moreover, Lu Jiang was used to maintaining a youthful appearance. After his cultivation was abolished, he would become a white-haired old man. Such a contrast would drive him mad.
Ji Shengzhe was a ten-life virtuous man; even after great suffering, he could maintain his sanity.
But Lu Jiang?
He was just a greedy, selfish villain.
He wouldn't be able to withstand it.
With Li Guoyan's explanation, Sect Master Yin and Yu Lanzhi could no longer argue.
If the Guiyuan Sect had managed to intimidate the Investigation Department today, Sect Master Yin might have fought for it. But now, not only had they failed to humble the Investigation Department, they themselves had been intimidated by it.
In front of so many people, both emotionally and logically, he could not bring it up again.
It was easy to imagine how the sect's reputation and prestige would plummet after today.
He suddenly remembered the latest chapter of "The Rich Family's Diary".
Black aura in the southwest...
Wasn't that exactly a black aura?
He couldn't help but glance at Qi Quan, who looked relaxed and at ease.
Strange, how had someone like her never gained any reputation before?
While he was pondering, Di Meng and Ning Zhi escorted Lu Jiang onto the viewing platform.
All eyes gathered on the platform.
Lu Jiang knew exactly what awaited him.
He had long lost his previous composure. Kneeling on the ground, he wept and pleaded, "Don't abolish my cultivation, please, I beg you, don't abolish my cultivation. I can be a training partner like the fierce ghost, I can teach them array techniques, I—"
A surge of spiritual power sealed his mouth.
Qi Quan glanced at him and said calmly, "Who will do it?"
The senior figures all felt a chill.
The fear of being dominated by her super level-seven pressure returned.
Sect Master Yin sighed inwardly.
Since things had come to this, and the Guiyuan Sect was forced to concede, it was better to do it gracefully.
He said, "I will."
Lu Jiang shuddered, staring at Sect Master Yin in disbelief, then his eyes filled with pleading, hoping Sect Master Yin would spare him out of sect camaraderie.
Yin Yi avoided his gaze, hardened his heart, gathered spiritual power in his palm, and slammed it towards Lu Jiang's abdomen.
The spiritual power, sharp as an awl, pierced Lu Jiang's dantian and churned violently within.
Lu Jiang's face contorted in agony. He tried to scream, but with his mouth sealed, only muffled grunts emerged.
His eyes, filled with venomous hatred, glared at Yin Yi, at everyone present. The intensity of his resentment was enough to send chills down one's spine.
Suddenly, an extremely powerful energy erupted from within his body.
Before anyone could react, Qi Quan instantly raised a spiritual energy barrier, firmly containing that energy within an extremely small area, not letting a single wisp escape.
Everyone: !!!
They stared in shock at what was inside the barrier.
That could no longer be called Lu Jiang. It was just a pile of his flesh and blood.
He had attempted to use self-destruction to take everyone present down with him!
Self-destruction didn't require active spiritual power. Even if an exorcist had not a trace of spiritual power left, they could unleash an immensely powerful energy during self-destruction.
It came at the cost of burning one's life force.
The self-destruction of a level seven exorcist was comparable to some highly potent thermal weapons.
Even a level seven exorcist would be severely injured, if not killed.
At such a critical moment, only Qi Quan acted swiftly, saving them all in time.
To suppress the energy of an instant self-destruction within a single breath, confining it to an extremely small area—what a truly transcendent and extraordinary method!
Everyone present realized with utmost clarity—
Qi Quan was absolutely not someone they could afford to provoke!
It was fortunate they hadn't openly offended him to the point of no return.
Yu Lanzhi's already pale and ashen face grew even paler.
He stared at the pool of flesh and blood within the spiritual energy shield, sensing the immense power contained within, and involuntarily took a step back.
Fu Jiuchong, who had remained silent until now, was the first to speak.
"Senior Qi Quan, for saving my life, I, Fu, have no adequate way to repay you."
In front of everyone, he took out his phone, opened the Scream APP, and without the slightest hesitation, dropped ten thousand Deepwater Bombs!
The crowd: "..."
My heavens...
Fu Jiuchong, you really know how to make a move!
