Chapter 78

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Su Jinyan, feeling helpless, said, "But I only know how to bluff people."

"I'm completely clueless about interpreting omens or seeking mysteries."

Finally revealing her true intentions, Fu Xuan assured him, "No matter."

"With your talent, as long as you remain dedicated under this venerable one's tutelage..."

"In mere thousands of years, you will undoubtedly excel in the arts of the Divination Commission."

Stelle couldn't resist murmuring quietly, "Well, that talent must be truly abysmal."

March 7th seized the opportunity to counter, "Oh, now you're criticizing our supposed 'baseless gossip' too? Aren't you doing the same?"

"As a proud Trailblazer, I am ashamed to be associated with you!"

Welt remained expressionless, thinking inwardly, I'm the one truly ashamed to be grouped with both of you!

Jing Yuan frowned deeply. "Minister Su, the decree from the Alliance has arrived."

"Do you know what reward the Xianzhou Alliance has bestowed upon you?"

Su Jinyan slightly shook his head. "General, please don't keep me in suspense any longer."

Jing Yuan shook his head, "The old fellows have decided to appoint you as the Right Grand Diviner of the Divination Commission."

"By the way," he added, "this position doesn't typically exist within the Divination Commission; it was specifically created for you by the Xianzhou Alliance."

Su Jinyan: "…"

Fu Xuan lifted her delicate face, slightly smug, "As the Right Grand Diviner, your duties must align with your title."

"This venerable one grants you a day off."

"But after today, you cannot slack off like Qingque anymore."

Rubbing his chin thoughtfully, Su Jinyan pondered deeply.

It seemed those old men from the Xianzhou Alliance knew how to provoke irritation quite well.

Jing Yuan offered an apologetic smile, "Apologies for entertaining such trivial matters before esteemed guests of the Astral Express."

Welt's voice resonated gravely, "Every family has its own challenges, General. Please do not concern yourself with our opinions."

"Mr. Su Jinyan likely still has more to discuss with the General and the Grand Diviner, right?"

"We'll wait outside; there's no need to worry about neglecting us."

With this exchange, the Astral Express and Ethereal Immortal Ferry formally established their partnership.

After concluding their casual conversation, Welt discreetly signaled March 7th and Fu Xuan with a gesture.

They immediately understood, recognizing that it was now time for the train group's private discussion.

Su Jinyan also comprehended Welt's intent and allowed them to leave the Sky-Faring Commission without interference.

Following their departure, a confidential meeting among Luofu's top leadership commenced.

The meeting took place in the conference room at the Sky-Faring Commission, attended by: Jing Yuan (via projection), Fu Xuan (via projection), Su Jinyan, and Yukong.

Jing Yuan shook his head repeatedly. "They claim it's a specially created position for you, with responsibilities equivalent to Fu Xuan's..."

"But in reality, it bears only an empty title without actual authority," he continued. "And there are no other rewards beyond that."

"It is said that two tigers cannot coexist on the same mountain. If anyone else were in your place, within half a month, Fu Xuan's family would undoubtedly use their influence to push them out."

Su Jinyan raised an eyebrow. "Are they trying to sow discord between Shizun and me?"

Fu Xuan's expression darkened. "Those old fools clearly don't realize how highly this venerable one regards you."

"They think such tactics could make this venerable one turn against A-Yan, attempting to force him into making mistakes?" Fu Xuan scoffed. "The elders of the Xianzhou Alliance truly become more regressive with each passing day."

"However, this does save this venerable one the trouble of finding a suitable position for my disobedient disciple."

Su Jinyan remained composed. "I wouldn't engage in power struggles with Shizun just for a bit of authority."

"For now, let's set this aside," Fu Xuan said mildly. "A-Yan, do not harbor any resentment over this matter.

"Ignore what those old fools may think; you should understand the intentions of this venerable one and the general."

Yukong feigned displeasure. "You two have been chatting away, leaving me completely out of the conversation!"

"A-Yan, Tingyun holds deep affection for you; do not neglect her feelings."

Su Jinyan waved dismissively. "Lady Yukong, surely you jest?"

"Recently, I've been considering having Tingyun give birth to a litter of little foxes and take maternity leave," Yukong replied. "How could anyone accuse me of neglecting her?"

Fu Xuan sneered. "Oh, maternity leave? Give birth to a litter of little foxes?" He scoffed, "Disgraceful disciple, you're quite something."

"The Divination Commission is currently overwhelmed with duties, and you are its Grand Diviner.

"This venerable one must assign you additional work to prevent your stagnation and susceptibility to fox enchantments."

Yukong's tone turned discontented. "Master Fu Xuan, let's communicate respectfully; do not single out our fox race."

"I should clarify that some old, dubious storybooks often portrayed fox girls as 'vixens'—"

"And claimed vixens enjoyed seducing married men or women... Such depictions were rife with prejudice against us foxfolk, perpetuating stereotypes and sowing discord under the guise of alliance."

"The Ten-Lords Commission long ago destroyed those books. Tingyun and A-Yan's union is based on mutual affection, so Master Fu Xuan, beware lest you err!"

Fu Xuan's expression darkened. "Hmph, I meant no such implication (yes, precisely that)." His words carried a double meaning.

Yukong flashed a dangerous smile. "Indeed?"

Jing Yuan tactfully intervened, "Fu Xuan, what is your opinion on the Lord Ravager Phantylia, who has infiltrated Xianzhou?"

Last night, through Hanya's dream, they had successfully obtained information about the Lord Ravager known as Phantylia from Pillar Dan Shu, the leader of the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus.

The true name of this Lord Ravager was not Yue Shi but rather "Phantylia." She had been covertly operating within Luofu for a long time and sought out Dan Shu for collaboration, recognizing the potential of the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus.

Her objective was to overthrow Luofu's government by exploiting religious conflicts within Xianzhou to bring about its downfall.

Could the Stellaron's explosion have been orchestrated by Phantylia herself? Or did it involve the Stellaron Hunters?

Even Dan Shu couldn't be certain; she only knew that Phantylia promised her a surprise. The so-called surprise turned out to be the complete annihilation of the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus overnight.

Initially, Dan Shu believed this was the damn surprise Phantylia had intended! However, unexpectedly, following that event, the Stellaron exploded—a belated surprise.

If the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus had survived that night, Dan Shu thought there might have been a chance to turn the tide.

In a solemn tone, Fu Xuan stated, "The 'Registry of Great Adversaries - Volume of Embers' lists three notable Lord Ravagers, none of whom match Phantylia's description."

"The intelligence we've gathered is still insufficient," Yukong remarked.

"Fortunately, A-Yan has proven exceptional," Fu Xuan continued. "The records from the Matrix of Prescience's divination allowed Luofu to preemptively seal off Jade World Gate."

"With this measure in place, Lord Ravager is trapped like a turtle in a jar."

"Even if she wishes to mobilize forces and send the Antimatter Legion against Luofu, she must first overcome the barrier at Jade World Gate."

Fu Xuan beamed with pride. "Of course, A-Yan is this venerable one's disciple. My standards have always been exceedingly high; over these many years, he remains my sole traitorous apprentice."

Su Jinyan spoke slowly, "From what we can discern now, Phantylia must have played a significant role in the Stellaron's eruption."

"But frankly, her methods seem rather amateurish."

"To overthrow Luofu, such tactics simply won't suffice."

Yukong chuckled, "Not enough? If you were Phantylia, what could you achieve?"

"If I were Phantylia, aiming to topple Luofu's regime, I would proceed step by step," Su Jinyan explained confidently. "Using the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus as covert agents, they should not be deployed hastily. First, I'd hire hackers to activate digital life forms and flood forums with numerous queries."

"Spread numerous rumors, implant a flood of conspiracy theories, sway the public opinion on Xianzhou, and exacerbate ethnic tensions within its populace."

"Then incite riots, manipulate foxfolk minds to assassinate members of the Holding Bright clan—but that alone won't suffice."

"Not just any assassination; target influential figures within the Holding Bright clan, ensuring ample evidence is left behind."

Jing Yuan listened intently.

Su Jinyan continued with growing enthusiasm, "Next, buy off disaffected factions among the Holding Bright clan, instigating them to support the current Vidyadhara High Elder and establish their own faction, thus breaking away from the Xianzhou Alliance."

"However, there are many astute individuals within the Holding Bright clan who would undoubtedly oppose secession."

"As a result, divisions between the radical and conservative factions intensify, leading to chaos."

"At this point, we'd further manipulate some descendants of the Holding Bright lineage, directing them to assassinate high-ranking figures of the fox race—namely, Lady Yukong herself."

Yukong: "…"

Fu Xuan: "…"

Undeterred, Su Jinyan's excitement grew. "While the rift widens between the fox race and the Holding Bright clan, deepening their animosity..."

"I would unleash a barrage of digital life form accounts to stir up and escalate conflicts between the two races on Xianzhou forums."

"The general, being an Etheral Ferryman, would inevitably step forward to mediate these inter-clan disputes."

"Next, I'd unleash a 'chain reaction,' triggering the Stellaron's eruption. The Disciples of Sanctus Medicus would then raise their banner of rebellion, inciting chaos."

"With the Ethereal Immortal Ferry preoccupied, I would deploy the Antimatter Legion to exert overwhelming pressure from the border, coordinating with the Disciples as our inside agents. This direct assault would checkmate them—"

Jing Yuan wiped his sweat and promptly interrupted, "Stop, stop-stop... Minister Su, I understand you're upset, but please don't impersonate Lord Ravager.

"And certainly don't ponder ways to kill me; we're on the same side, there's no need for such thoughts."

Su Jinyan coughed twice. "Apologies, I let my emotions get the better of me. That was just a jest."

Yukong couldn't help but sigh deeply. "If Lord Ruin heard this plan, he might well appoint you as the Emissary of Destruction overnight."

Fu Xuan sought to reassure him, "A-Yan, this venerable one acknowledges your grievances."

"Everyone has witnessed your contributions to Luofu," Fu Xuan continued. "Once this crisis is resolved, this venerable one will join with the general to submit a joint memorandum, requesting additional rewards for you from the Xianzhou Alliance."

Su Jinyan chuckled, "Shizun, really? Do you think I care about such minor rewards?"

Fu Xuan pondered these words and quickly grasped their underlying meaning:

I've earned accolades for Luofu; while I may not seek the rewards, the Xianzhou Alliance cannot afford to overlook them.

Even if the Xianzhou Alliance's reward were as insignificant as a feather, I would accept it graciously, but they mustn't snub me in such a manner.

In truth, attempting to destroy Luofu solely with Lord Ravager Phantylia was indeed impractical. If truly pushed to desperation, Fu Xuan could use the Cloud-Viewing Mirror to request aid from the Arrow of Fate.

Indeed, by sacrificing part of Luofu's paradises, the Arrow of Fate could guarantee Phantylia's demise with a single arrow.

Jing Yuan's expression turned serious. "Fu Xuan, the Yukong Branch Director, and I will revisit the matter of rewards during the Six Rulers' Deliberative Assembly."

"To express our dissatisfaction to the Xianzhou Alliance," he added.

Su Jinyan smiled subtly, adeptly steering the conversation elsewhere. "Shizun, just now you mentioned 'The Registry of Great Enemies - Volume Embercalamity.' Is Phantylia not included within it?"

Fu Xuan explained, "No, it seems that Phantylia's name could not be definitively identified, but there are observation records left..."

Each Lord Ravager, being both Emissaries chosen by Jinxing Huozu Nanook and commanders of numerous Antimatter Legion forces, had the ease to dispatch these legions against any planet at will. Every Lord Ravager exhibited distinct preferences for extreme destruction, known as their "aesthetics of annihilation."

'The Registry of Great Enemies - Volume Embercalamity' documented that under Nanook's command were seven Lord Ravagers, each representing one of the seven extreme tendencies of destruction.

[Raging Gale], the Monarch most fervently devoted to violent obliteration, was obsessed with the burst of power and beauty unleashed in the instant of destruction, harboring an extreme fascination for the arrival of Armageddon.

[Starseer], the vanguard general of the Embercalamity Ancestor, commanded forces that spanned across the Galaxy, weaving paths for military campaigns and trails of destruction amidst the stars.

[Iron Tomb] was the Monarch most adept at assaulting technologically advanced worlds. With ease, he could incite AI legions to rebel, causing aerial vehicles to scatter like swarms of flies.

Furthermore, he could even turn satellite weapons against their own world, leading to its demise.

Another Lord Ravager preferred deploying the Antimatter Legion, employing slow advances to build advantages, exert pressure, and gradually erode resistance.

If indeed such a massive Antimatter Legion approached our borders, given that Yuheng's Jade World Gate is already sealed...

At the very least, we would be able to resist them for a significant duration while requesting support from other Xianzhous.

After hearing this, Su Jinyan frowned deeply. "General, I must remind you of something crucial."

"The intelligent defense system of the Jade World Gate urgently needs an upgrade."

"Even if Silver Wolf is among the universe's top hackers, it shouldn't have been so easily breached by her."

"This clearly indicates that our Jade World Gate's defense system is virtually ineffective against elite hackers!"

Jing Yuan's expression turned grave. "Minister Su is correct."

"Once this matter is resolved, it's time to have the Artisanship Commission upgrade and optimize the Jade World Gate."

[We proudly introduce you to Genius Society Seat 76, the ruler of Screwstar - Screwllum.]

[Screwllum is truly a reliable and trustworthy individual.]

[In a confrontation over information technology, Silver Wolf failed to breach Screwllum's defenses.]

[While Screwllum did not prevent Silver Wolf from leaving, Silver Wolf considered herself defeated by Screwllum's hand.]

[Screwllum is difficult to engage, but Trailblazer. Stelle has maintained friendly relations with her.]

[To test the Simulated Universe, Screwllum and others may require her assistance.]

[By cultivating goodwill, there might be a chance to enlist Screwllum at minimal cost for upgrading and optimizing Luofu's Jade World Gate.]

Su Jinyan shook his head, lost in thought.

First, I must win over Sushang; then Hanya Xueyi; now even Stelle requires my efforts. Must I truly exhaust myself for Luofu's future?

Ah, you're making things quite challenging for me.

Fu Xuan keenly observed the melancholic expression on Su Jinyan's face, prompting him to ponder inwardly.

Is this wayward disciple feeling overwhelmed? Or does he have reservations?

Jing Yuan also noticed his reaction and asked, "What's wrong, Minister Su? Why do you shake your head?"

Su Jinyan sighed and swiftly moved away. "It doesn't matter." He added, "Let's discuss this after matters here are settled. I must go attend to our guests now."

Despite being a general, Jing Yuan couldn't always make decisions on certain issues—such as the Jade World Gate system upgrade, which involved critical secrets of the Xianzhou Alliance.

Xianzhou could only entrust this task to their own Artisanship Commission; allowing outsiders' involvement was out of the question. No matter how trustworthy an outsider might be, Xianzhou would still fear them leaving backdoors within the Jade World Gate system.

Jing Yuan and the others exchanged glances.

Fu Xuan sneered, "Hmph, just look at it—the handiwork of those hidebound old fools."

"The antiquated relics of the Xianzhou Alliance truly dishearten my disciple," he continued. "My disciple deserves affection from none other than this venerable one himself."

"Once he finishes here, this venerable one will properly comfort him."

Jing Yuan furrowed his brow, responding, "Although I am the Ruo Fu General, the Alliance's decrees cannot be questioned."

"We all recognize the strategies and merits Minister Su has brought to Luofu."

Yukong nodded, saying, "While A-Yan can sometimes adopt rather radical approaches—"

"However, his intentions were good; everything he did was with Luofu's best interests at heart," Jing Yuan continued. "Master Fu Xuan, perhaps you could find an opportunity to subtly probe A-Yan and discern what he desires. If it lies within our capabilities, we should endeavor to assist him."

Jing Yuan smiled slightly. "The branch director of the Aerial Division speaks wisely."

Fu Xuan pondered for a moment. "Let this venerable one consider it."

Beep-beep—

Just then, Yukong's jade divination tablet emitted a warning sound.

Someone had once again opened the sealed Jade World Gate, leaving behind the same taunting insignia—a caricature of Dan Heng's head.

Yukong's expression darkened instantly. "General, take a look—just who is responsible now? Our Ruo Fu Immortal Ship's Jade World Gates are practically useless against these Stellaron Hunters! We must urgently discuss this matter with the Artisanship Commission's craftsmen."

Glancing briefly at the insignia, Jing Yuan reassured him, "Branch Director Yukong, there's no need to rush. I will immediately contact Zhu Lun, the Chief Supervisor, to see if he has any solutions.

"The troubles aboard the Xianzhou, the paperwork on the desk, and the weeds in the flower beds—these three things remain ever elusive, impossible to fully clear away no matter how diligently one tries."

In blunt terms, Fu Xuan suggested, "General, why not step down from your position and allow this venerable one to succeed you?"

"Then, with this venerable one and the traitorous disciple working harmoniously together, we shall undoubtedly restore clarity to Xianzhou Luofu."

Jing Yuan smiled. "It's not yet the right time. In case any unforeseen circumstances arise, I must remain as general to bear responsibility."

"I cannot simply abandon my duties now, leaving Fu Xuan unjustly burdened."

Fu Xuan pressed further, step by step. "How about after this current matter concludes?"

"At the next meeting of the six rulers, you should fulfill your promise to nominate me as your successor, shouldn't you?"

Distracted, Jing Yuan responded half-heartedly, "Mm-hmm, yes, alright, understood. But I have important matters to attend to.

"Afterward, everything will be entrusted to the exceptionally gifted Fu Xuan."

With a sweep of his sleeves, Fu Xuan left indignantly. "Hmph, this venerable one will continue deducing strategies."

Shaking his head, Jing Yuan also dissolved his projection.

The once bustling conference room was now empty save for Branch Director Yukong alone.

Yukong pondered briefly before sending a short message to Tingyun:

[Fengyu Caihong 7854: Tingyun, enjoying your maternity leave?]

[Benefactor's Little Fox: ?]

[Benefactor's Little Fox: Lady Yukong, what jest is this? We haven't reached that stage yet (blushing emoji).]

Sighing, Yukong replied ambiguously:

[Fengyu Caihong 7854: If you don't take initiative soon, you might miss your chance.]

[Benefactor's Little Fox: ?]

As soon as Su Jinyan stepped out of the Sky-Faring Commission, a transparent rectangular frame appeared before his eyes, displaying a countdown:

Remaining Time to Win Over Sushang: 71:59:50

Please swiftly win over Sushang within this timeframe and capture her affection; otherwise, you will regret it.

Su Jinyan's pace halted, his expression turning grave.

What exactly has befallen Sushang? Why do I have less than three days left? If I fail to win her over by then, what consequences will follow?

I can't afford to wait any longer. After arranging accommodations for the esteemed guests, I must act immediately. The urgency driven by the dwindling time compelled Su Jinyan to make a decision.

At the very moment Su Jinyan resolved himself, Kafka, hidden aboard Xianzhou Luofu, received notification of changes to the script.

Fu Xuan's countenance dramatically shifted; she had unexpectedly divined an ominous portent along Ruo Fu Immortal Ship's route, something unprecedented.

The six Xianzhous of the Xianzhou Alliance were more akin to colossal warships traversing the cosmos than traditional celestial vessels.

To avoid hazards like black holes or dangerous astronomical bodies, the Divination Commission routinely performed daily divinations to chart the best course for the Xianzhous, ensuring they evaded any unforeseen perils.

Based on Fu Xuan's analysis, the impending danger obstructing Ruo Fu's route likely involved Phantylia.

It was imperative to immediately notify the Sky-Faring Commission and instruct Yukong to alter the Xianzhou's course.

"Hey, over here!" Spotting Su Jinyan's figure from afar, March 7th waved enthusiastically towards him.

Su Jinyan swiftly approached. "Apologies for keeping you all waiting."

"We must not rush the arrest of Stellaron Hunter Kafka."

"As esteemed guests, after your long journey, let us first proceed to Yuchen Inn for some rest."

Stelle tightened her grip on the baseball bat, looking wary. "Accommodations right upon arrival? Again?"

In Belobog, they had also been offered lodging immediately after their reception, only to be arrested by Bronya's forces just one night later.

Why was Stelle experiencing this all over again at Xianzhou Luofu—like a classic replay?

Welt reassured him, "Calm down, don't react so impulsively."

Confused, Su Jinyan asked, "What's wrong with you?"

After obtaining consent from Welt and the others, Stelle briefly recounted what had transpired in Belobog.

Su Jinyan looked thoroughly perplexed. "It seems like there might be some misunderstanding between us."

"Rest assured, my actions have always been straightforward and honest; I never stab people in the back," he said. "Nor do I engage in underhanded schemes—I prefer fair and open confrontations."

March 7th gently pressed her lips together. "We didn't want to assume you were a villain either."

"But you're related to Sampo, aren't you? He personally confirmed that you're his distant uncle."

"He mentioned he used to be called Sampo Su, only changing his name to Sampo Koski after moving to Belobog."

Su Jinyan blinked, puzzled. Who exactly is this Sampo? And who randomly claims random relatives?

"Oh right, let me show you something interesting."

"Here, your nephew Sampo sent me this video." Stelle silently opened her phone and played a clip.

In front of the camera stood a casually dressed young man with blue hair and eyes, his expression playful.

Just as Su Jinyan anticipated him to say something, Sampo suddenly dropped to his knees and banged his head on the ground three times, producing loud thuds.

"Bam, bam, bam—"

"Uncle! Have some pity on me, Uncle!"

"Older Uncle Sangbo is broke, and Belobog is freezing cold. Please spare some pocket money so your nephew can have a warm meal."

"Not asking for much, just a few million Credits would suffice."

Welt was speechless.

March 7th remained equally stunned.

Su Jinyan chuckled, "Well done, deserves a reward. Have him send over his payment QR code."

March 7th hastily restrained Su Jinyan's eager hand. "Hey, you're actually going to transfer funds?"

"We now trust that you aren't a bad person."

"You might not know, but Sampo is essentially a con artist, full of empty promises. You shouldn't believe him."

Su Jinyan wore a compassionate expression. "What choice do I have? He's my only nephew after all."

Seeing Su Jinyan's determination, Stelle reluctantly instructed Sampo to send the Interstellar Peace Account's payment QR code.

The official currency used in Belobog was called the Winter City Shield, but Credits were also accepted and could be exchanged at a rate of 1 Credit to 50 Shields.

With this influx of Credits, Sampo anticipated living quite comfortably—so he thought.

Unexpectedly, upon seeing the payment QR code, Su Jinyan didn't rush to transfer funds. Instead, he forwarded it to Silver Wolf.

[Punklorde's Silver Wolf: ?]

[Fu Xuan's Dog: Considering your companion caused me significant trouble, isn't it reasonable to ask for a small favor?]

[Here's the fraudster's account QR code. Can you lock his account and donate his Credits to charity?]

[Punklorde's Silver Wolf: It might be tricky... Even hackers can't do everything...]

[Fu Xuan's Dog: In a couple of days, I'll design the Five Tiger Generals' character cards for Turmoil of the Three Kingdoms. Would sending them to your email be okay?]

One minute later, at an inn in Belobog.

Sampo stared dumbfounded at the balance in his Interstellar Peace Account.

Panicking, he hastily dialed the Interastral Peace Corporation's customer service number:

"Hello, is this Interastral Peace Corporation? My account has been compromised!"

"Sorry, the number you dialed is unreachable. Please try again later."

Sampo stared, bewildered.

March 7th and others, who had been observing this unfold from start to finish, were left speechless with shock.

"You-you-you..."

"Do you really know Silver Wolf?"

"Can she hack someone's account just using their payment code?"

March 7th blinked her beautiful eyes, lips slightly parted, her perception of Su Jinyan fluctuating wildly like bungee jumping—rising momentarily before plummeting drastically, only to swiftly rebound shortly after.

Su Jinyan smiled and asked, "Did you learn anything from that?"

Stelle looked at him admiringly. "Why didn't you have Silver Wolf transfer the Credits directly to your account?"

Su Jinyan displayed his own account balance with a nonchalant tone. "I've never liked money; it holds no interest for me. Rather than keeping it in my account, I prefer to use it where it has greater value."

March 7th couldn't help but feel impressed by his display.

With eager eyes, Stelle wrapped her arm around Su Jinyan's shoulder. "My account is definitely a place of greater value! Please transfer those Credits to me!"

Smiling, Su Jinyan nodded. "Sure, give me your phone."

Stelle, taken aback, questioned, "Huh?"

***

The Dust-Moistening Inn stood on Starcross Sea's bustling commercial street, its steady flow of visitors matched by its ornate decor, distinctly reminiscent of Xianzhou's style.

March 7th let out an adorable yawn. "Just seeing the inn sign makes me feel overwhelmingly drowsy."

A hint of amusement played at Stelle's lips. "When isn't it like this for you?"

March 7th's expressive eyes darted sideways as she silently placed her hands on her hips. "This time is different! I've been constantly on edge, observing our surroundings and ready to bolt at any moment. To be honest, ever since we entered the Palace of Astrum, my emotions have been rollercoastering nonstop—like riding a wild mountain loop!"

"Just now, when that Yukong furrowed her brow, I nearly expected a fully armed squad to charge out and haul us all off to prison," she continued. "Dealing with important figures is more exhausting than battling monsters..."

Su Jinyan snorted. "Little March, aren't you being too dismissive of me?"

March 7th scratched her head, grinning sheepishly. "Huh? N-no, I wasn't saying anything bad about Lady Yukong, heh heh..."

Su Jinyan responded mildly, "Only Credit can make me turn a blind eye."

March 7th, quick to pick up on lessons learned, extended her hand and said, "Alright then, give your phone to this young lady right here."

Su Jinyan raised an eyebrow.

Welt silently shook his head; indeed, one's character is shaped by their company—both good and bad. After spending just a few hours with Su Jinyan, little March had already picked up his mischievous tricks.

"Does Xianzhou Luofu have any delicious food?" Stelle asked eagerly.

"When we return," she continued, "I must bring some back for our conductor."

Su Jinyan gave a thumbs-up. "Allow me to wholeheartedly recommend soda bean juice!"

"We old Luofu folks adore it—it's authentically flavorful, truly delightful once you sip it down."

Stelle's eyes sparkled. Perfect! Something so revolting definitely needs to be shared with Pom-Pom as well.

"You know, Lady Yukong isn't as bad as you might think," Su Jinyan added. "She's simply doing her duty diligently."

"Lady Yukong just mentioned that all your expenses aboard Xianzhou will be covered by the Sky-Faring Commission!"

Stelle nudged March 7th with her chin, prompting, "March, quickly thank Yukong Sister!"

Taking a deep breath, Welt boomed loudly, "Thank you, Yukong Sister!"

Stelle and March 7th stared at him, bewildered.

The passersby on the street instantly shot them sympathetic glances, as if looking at someone mentally challenged.

Both girls gazed sorrowfully at Welt.

Uncle Yang, how did you become like this? Even your ever-mature and steady self couldn't resist the corruption of money? You've snapped—succumbed to the materialistic pressures of society!

Panicking, Welt hastily explained, "No, wait! That wasn't me speaking just now."

March 7th nodded understandingly, "Uncle Yang, there's no need to explain; we all get it."

Shaking his head, Stelle sighed, "In the adult world, nothing comes easy."

They clearly saw Welt take a deep breath and forcefully shout those words. However, from Welt's perspective, he only heard a voice identical to his own without witnessing Su Jinyan's illusion.

Welt adjusted his glasses, directing a suspicious gaze towards Su Jinyan.

Recalling earlier at the Palace of Astrum, little March had also mentioned something similar.

There could only be one possibility—it was Su Jinyan's mischief at work.

Su Jinyan candidly admitted, "Seeing Mr. Walter looking somewhat weary, I thought it would be fun to play a small joke with everyone."

"Judging by his reaction now, it seems effective; Mr. Walter appears much more spirited."

Welt sternly warned, "Don't do this again next time."

Smiling, Su Jinyan offered a half-hearted apology, clearly not taking it seriously.

With the advanced specialty Silent Casting, he could bypass all casting gestures and incantations entirely.

Combined with Mirage's capabilities, it allowed him to effortlessly ensnare someone in illusions without any trace.

Overall, his illusionary technique proved quite successful, perfectly deceiving the eyes of little March and her companions.

However, to truly test the limits of Mirage, he'd need assistance from some cultivators trained in the Medicine King's secret teachings.

March 7th glared at Su Jinyan, "Aha! Just as I suspected, there's no way I'd experience auditory or visual hallucinations!"

"So it was all your doing?"

Stelle, expression disapproving, gripped her bat tightly, lending support to March 7th's stance.

Su Jinyan smiled and bowed courteously. "As an apology, esteemed Miss Trailblazer, please check your phone."

Stelle glanced at her device, and upon seeing the transfer notification, her anger turned to delight.

"Little March, we've hit the jackpot! This guy just transferred five million Credits to us."

March 7th eagerly joined in, beaming. "No way! Let me see for myself!"

"So many Credits! I'm more than happy to fall for his tricks!"

"Oh right, he won't have Silver Wolf reclaim this money, will he?"

Su Jinyan snorted dismissively. "Such a small sum doesn't concern me."

Welt interjected, "Let's focus on the matter at hand." He continued, "Since the Yukong Branch Director vehemently opposes our involvement, it suggests that the Sky-Faring Commission may have some leads on Kafka's whereabouts, no?"

Welt strongly suspected that the Stellaron Hunters' control over the Hasternucleus Hunter Blade had been compromised. Otherwise, why would they need the Astral Express's help to apprehend Kafka?

Why not simply use the Blade as bait to lure Kafka out?

Su Jinyan smiled. "Of course we have some leads."

"However, there's no need to rush with capturing Kafka," he continued. "Our esteemed guests must be weary from your journey; please take this opportunity to rest here. I have other important matters to attend to and won't keep you company any longer."

March 7th, wary, asked, "Hey, aren't you trying to sneak off and do something shady without us knowing?"

"Like going to charm that Sushang girl?" she added.

In March 7th's view, Sushang seemed rather naive and easily susceptible to someone like Su Jinyan's influence.

Uncle Yang had once told her:

"If engaging in conversation with someone feels exceptionally comfortable, it doesn't necessarily mean they're your true confidant. More likely, they're just adapting their communication style to accommodate you.

"Their effective responses stem from their significantly higher emotional intelligence and knowledge base compared to yours. They willingly place themselves at a lower level to listen, understand, accept, and validate you."

With this approach, he effortlessly engaged with any joke or topic you threw his way, and every word he uttered resonated deeply with your heart.

If Su Jinyan used such conversation tactics on Sushang, wouldn't it be incredibly easy for him to win her over? Driven by The Nameless's sense of justice, March 7th couldn't bear to watch Su Jinyan bewitch an innocent young maiden. She simply couldn't stand idly by as Sushang teetered on the brink of disaster.

Ugh, why was March 7th's commitment to justice so unwavering?

Su Jinyan frowned, wasting no time as he abruptly turned and sprinted away. He had limited moments left and couldn't afford to let little March interfere recklessly.

March 7th's expression shifted, and she frantically chased after him, dragging Stelle along, "Stop right there, you scoundrel!"

As Su Jinyan ran, he shouted back, "I will never be your husband, so give up already! There's no place for you in my heart anymore. No matter how much you chase me, I won't agree!"

March 7th blinked, momentarily speechless.

Passersby on the street began casting ambiguous glances at them.

As they passed two patrolling cloud knights, Su Jinyan panted hastily, "I'm on a confidential mission; don't let them interfere."

"Just find any excuse to send them away," he added.

The cloud knights exchanged glances and replied firmly, "Understood!"

March 7th's snow-white cheeks flushed slightly as she hastily stopped and tried to explain to the bystanders, "It's not...not what you think—it's a misunderstanding..."

"I was chasing him because—hey, what are you doing over there?!"

While March 7th was busy clarifying to the crowd, Stelle had already moved away from her. She was now rummaging through the gleaming trash bins lining the street.

Suddenly, the two patrolling cloud knights approached stealthily from behind Stelle. With grave expressions, one took hold of her arm from each side.

"You're suspected of scavenging waste. Come with us to the Realm-Keeping Commission."

Stelle blinked in confusion. March 7th stared, equally perplexed.

Wait, is scavenging really forbidden on Xianzhou? Was Su Jinyan telling the truth all along?