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Hanya silently turned off the video feed.
"This footage has already been uploaded by someone from the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus to Luofu's Xianzhou forum, specifically the general discussion section."
"The forum is now in uproar; one side firmly believes you're being framed, while the other feels utterly deceived."
"If not handled carefully, the consequences could be dire."
Xueyi turned to face Su Jinyan. "Su Jinyan, what do you make of this?"
Su Jinyan chuckled despite himself. "What do I make of it? Are you asking me, Lady Xueyi?" He paused for effect before continuing, "Honored lords, let me propose something. Instead of harboring suspicions against me, why not hear my analysis?"
With these words, Su Jinyan clapped his hands, drawing everyone's attention squarely onto him.
"No way! No way!"
"Surely no one can fall for such a blatant attempt at sowing discord?"
Xueyi remained silent.
Su Jinyan's gaze turned cold, directing his accusation squarely at her. "I'm talking to you, Xueyi."
"As a Judge of the Ten-Lords Commission, should you not discern right from wrong?"
"Punishing criminals and exposing injustice? Ridiculous! Unaware that you're being manipulated by deceitful hands!"
"That so-called leader of the Medicine King's secret teachings is actually a courtesan!"
Xueyi did not respond.
Dan Shu looked on, puzzled.
On the surface, the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus' move appeared undeniably foolish. With such an obvious attempt at inciting conflict and lacking substantial evidence, Jing Yuan and the others would never believe it.
However, the issue lay in where they posted this video—on the forum of Luofu's Ethereal Immortal Ferry.
The toxic climate of internet forums needed no further explanation. Whether someone believed it or not was irrelevant; there would always be those who do.
If the Ten-Lords Commission truly unraveled Su Jinyan's true identity, it would undoubtedly have severe repercussions on Fu Xuan's reputation.
Isn't it you, Fu Xuan, seeking to bail out Su Jinyan?
It's understandable if you couldn't tell—he originally belonged to our Disciples of Sanctus Medicus.
"Master Fu Taibǔ, esteemed as you are, with your daily workload and wearying responsibilities, it's understandable if you momentarily overlooked divining this situation," Su Jinyan continued. "But by actively involving other prominent figures to join you at the Ten-Lords Commission to bail out this alleged cultivator from the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus, you risk tarnishing your own reputation.
"It's clear that someone behind the scenes is exploiting this incident to exert public pressure and further intensify conflicts within Xianzhou Luofu." He paused, his voice cold. "Their aim isn't specifically me; rather, they seek to capitalize on Luofu's blockade of Yujie Gate to sow chaos."
"If I were truly an elite cultivator of the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus, apprenticed under that black-robed figure," Su Jinyan said, "he would undoubtedly go to great lengths to distance me from any association with them, possibly even destroying evidence linking me to their secret teachings.
"Why? Because once convicted, given the severity of my crimes, Judge Xueyi or another judge would surely sentence me to execution. Would the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus invest so much effort in nurturing me only to hand me over for the judges' accolades? Highly unlikely, wouldn't you agree?"
Jing Yuan nodded slightly. "Minister Su makes valid points. The fiends within the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus are notoriously cunning, resorting to underhanded tactics without hesitation."
"If everyone were to believe this, it would only cause pain to those close and delight to our enemies."
Fu Xuan sneered coldly. "Beforehand, this venerable one had already activated the Matrix of Prescience to divine A-Yan's future."
"Suppose he truly is the cultivator of Sanctus Medicus' secret teachings—what does that make me, then? The leader of Sanctus Medicus?"
Dan Shu looked puzzled.
Su Jinyan subtly observed Dan Shu from the corner of his eye while continuing, "Let us consider for a moment:
"Why would the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus rush to use others as their blade?
"The answer is simple. I infiltrated them for a long time, uncovering some crucial secrets of this criminal organization."
"A-Yan," Dan Shu asked gently, "if so, does that mean the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus feared you might expose their secrets? And what secrets have you discovered about their organization?"
Seeing the anticipation on everyone's faces, Su Jinyan raised a finger and whispered, "The leader of the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus—I've played with him; quite slippery!"
Dan Shu blinked in confusion. Fu Xuan echoed his surprise.
Jing Yuan cleared his throat. "Minister Su, there's no need for such vulgar jests."
Su Jinyan turned serious. "General, you're right. Now, my cover as an undercover agent has been blown."
"If I were part of the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus, I'd also fear that I might reveal their secrets to the Seat of Divine Foresight."
"Of course, they would eagerly wish for my swift demise—am I right, Xueyi?"
"During your attempt to apprehend me, did you personally witness the Disciples mobilizing a significant number of their elite forces?"
"Doesn't this imply that the Disciples were willing to risk enmity with the Judge just to capture me?"
Xueyi paused briefly before murmuring, "Thou dost...speak with great reason..."
"So then, could thou share the secrets about the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus that thou hast gathered with us?"
"Every individual on this Xianzhou has a duty to cooperate with the Ten-Lords Commission's investigations; please understand," Jing Yuan responded.
Jing Yuan's heart stirred slightly, unsure how much truth lay in Su Jinyan's words. Nevertheless, it didn't hinder his willingness to support him and clear his suspicion.
Given the situation at hand, who would still expend effort to speculate about Su Jinyan's true identity? His actual status had become secondary.
He had to be—and could only be—the undercover agent sent by the Seat of Divine Foresight to infiltrate the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus. Otherwise, Jing Yuan and the other five head honchos, led by himself, would face severe repercussions from the Xianzhou Alliance post-factum.
Jing Yuan chuckled lightly. "Lady Xueyi, I must say your statement seems somewhat inappropriate."
"Minister Su is both a diviner of the Grand Diviner's commission and our Seat of Divine Foresight's undercover agent within the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus."
"Whether it be evidence gathered from the secret teachings or confidential information obtained, all should be reported to the Seat of Divine Foresight."
"As his direct superior, isn't it rather excessive for you to so openly claim credit? Shouldn't you allow him to share these findings with us?"
Fu Xuan shook his head slightly. "General, your understanding is flawed."
"Lady Xueyi holds a high position, burdened by responsibilities that already leave her overwhelmed," Fu Xuan explained. "With someone now willing to alleviate some of her workload, she would be delighted, not competing for credit against the Seat of Divine Foresight. Am I right, Lady Xueyi?"
Xueyi was rendered speechless, caught off guard.
Su Jinyan pondered briefly before agreeing, "Indeed, General Jing Yuan has a point, and my intentions align with what he said."
"However, since everyone here is eager to know, I can reveal a few details." With this, Su Jinyan glanced around furtively and lowered his voice. "Just recently, Shen Hai approached me privately."
"Aware of my role within the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus, he secretly arranged a meeting at an inn," Su Jinyan continued.
"During our meeting," Su Jinyan continued, "Shen Hai boasted about possessing numerous secrets from the Medicine King's lineage and demanded my obedience to him henceforth.
"As someone upright like myself, I naturally feigned compliance at first, playing along while getting him thoroughly intoxicated."
"Afterward, under the pretense of escorting him home, I indeed found two secret medicinal formulas belonging to the Medicine King within his residence."
Dan Shu quietly sighed with relief. If it were merely formulas, they wouldn't be enough to expose her identity. Without sufficient evidence, even if Jing Yuan suspected her, he couldn't act against her.
Xueyi asked, "Formulas? May we have a look?"
Su Jinyan shook his head slightly. "These are crucial pieces of evidence. By following this trail, we might just uncover the leader behind these schemes."
"My apologies, everyone, but the contents of these formulas can only be disclosed to the general himself."
Fu Xuan and the others expressed their understanding, subsequently leaving the side room of the Nether Mansion.
Once only Jing Yuan and Su Jinyan remained within the Nether Mansion, Jing Yuan began with a chuckle.
"Minister Su, you've truly landed me in quite a predicament," he said softly. "To secure your release, us old fellows had to face off against even the Judge of the Ten-Lords Commission."
"This time, drinking three cups of penalty wine seems like the least I can do."
Su Jinyan raised an eyebrow and replied quietly, "General, there's no need for further probing."
"I have always stood by your side; you can trust me completely."
"As you have shown me kindness, allow me to reciprocate in kind."
Jing Yuan looked at him with a pleased smile. "I knew Minister Su would not disappoint me."
With a serious expression, Su Jinyan revealed, "In a hidden compartment within the Divination Commission's library lies the formula for Dragon-Coiled Soaring Pill."
"Additionally, there are secret locations across Luofu where the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus gather, along with their corresponding codes and signals."
"The most crucial piece is the 'List of Cultivator Identities' from the Medicine King's secret teachings; I obtained these documents from Shen Hai."
"However, I believe that with this evidence alone, we can only inflict significant harm on the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus but not completely dismantle them."
"They possess adept means for evading capture, and moreover, there's their unknown ally to consider."
Jing Yuan waved his hand dismissively. "No matter. Your provision of these proofs demonstrates that Fu Xuan and I did not misjudge you."
"With this evidence, our journey here will not have been in vain."
"Even if the envoys of the Ten Lords later accuse us of unauthorized interference in the affairs of the Ten-Lords Commission, we will have valid grounds to respond."
Smiling, Su Jinyan asked, "General, would you say my actions constitute a significant achievement?"
"What do you think of Head Pill Master as a person?" Jing Yuan clicked his tongue, seeming somewhat troubled.
Su Jinyan looked puzzled.
Jing Yuan cautiously responded, "Although Head Pill Master is mature and holds a high position, she may not be truly suitable for you."
"At your young age, it would be more fitting to pursue vibrant young ladies like Miss Tingyun or Miss Qingque."
"Even if you've grown weary of striving for success, you should pursue Minister Fu, not someone like Head Pill Master."
"If you insist on chasing after her, I can only say that I'll do my best to create opportunities for you both. However, whether it succeeds or fails will depend entirely on you."
Su Jinyan couldn't help but shake his head. "General, what exactly are you thinking?"
"I mean, haven't you noticed how exceptional Head Pill Master's figure is?" Jing Yuan continued, "Curves at the front and back, with hips well-suited for childbirth."
Jing Yuan momentarily fell silent. "Minister Su, as a distinguished general of the Seat of Divine Foresight, do you really think I would deliberately scrutinize Head Pill Master's physique? Would such behavior be appropriate?
"If any observant person caught me doing so, wouldn't there be whispers about me being a 'lecherous general'?"
"But Minister Su, are you suggesting that Head Pill Master seems suspicious?"
"That's correct," Su Jinyan said gravely. "The measurements of Head Pill Master and the leader appear virtually identical."
Jing Yuan fell into deep thought: "Is this so? Is there any other evidence to prove your suspicion?"
Su Jinyan nodded and said, "Of course, otherwise I wouldn't have mentioned it."
"As for the other evidence, as long as the general sees the identity list of the traders, he will find out."
"General, considering my significant contributions, I humbly request that you grant me two favors."
Jing Yuan smiled warmly. "Of course, go ahead," he said. "As long as it's within my capabilities and does not violate my principles, I can agree to your requests."
Su Jinyan spoke firmly, "First, I wish to become the leader of the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus."
"I aim to replace the current leader and steer the Disciples onto the right path."
"Second, I am just one step away from luring Judge Xueyi into our trap. I hope the general will assist me in completing this final stage."
In a stern tone, Jing Yuan decisively rejected his first request.
"Long ago, the marshal issued a command to utterly eradicate the existence of the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus organization."
"The Xianzhou Alliance maintains zero tolerance towards them; it is a line no one must cross."
"Minister Su, you should abandon such thoughts. Once truly entangled with the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus..."
"Not only would Fu Xuan or myself be powerless to protect you, but even if all us old fellows here today combined our efforts, we couldn't safeguard you."
Naturally, Jing Yuan exaggerated deliberately with these words.
After all, could the esteemed Divine Foresight General truly fail to protect him?
However, the price to be paid for such involvement would be too steep, far beyond what Jing Yuan could bear.
Recalling the Imbibitor Lunae Rebellion from years past, every detail remained vivid in his mind today.
Dan Feng, the High Elder of the Holding Bright Clan, held a prestigious and esteemed position. Yet even after committing grave sins, he was still subjected to trial by the Ten-Lords Commission.
The commission advocated for Dan Feng's destruction as a deterrent to others.
If not for Jing Yuan risking controversy and leveraging his influence as a general, negotiating a lesser sentence, and ultimately securing exile instead of execution, there would have been no Dan Heng aboard the Astral Express.
Jing Yuan's implication was clear: I've already warned you beforehand. If you truly harbor illicit intentions, I won't plead on your behalf when the time comes.
Su Jinyan expressed some regret, "Is that so? Then, I'll have no choice but to completely sever ties with the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus."
Intrigued, Jing Yuan asked, "Minister Su, regarding your second request, it piques my interest. Why don't you elaborate? How do you plan to involve Judge Xueyi?"
"Let me clarify, if your proposal involves any unethical means against judges of the Ten-Lords Commission, it is strictly prohibited."
Feeling slightly embarrassed, Su Jinyan responded, "This method, well, it's somewhat complicated."
"I would like to request that you utilize your esteemed connections, General."
"Additionally, I ask that you arrange for Xueyi to meet me privately here..."
This task was truly daunting and could not be accomplished by him alone; he needed the intervention of this influential general.
After listening to Su Jinyan's proposal, Jing Yuan felt somewhat torn but did not outright refuse.
Jing Yuan sighed, "Minister Su, you certainly know how to present me with difficult dilemmas."
"If it weren't for the significant merits you've already achieved, I would undoubtedly decline your suggestion."
Su Jinyan bowed respectfully. "General, please rest assured, let us formalize this agreement under military oath."
"After my release from confinement, I will personally address any negative impacts detrimental to Xianzhou's unity."
"Not only will the reputation of the Ten-Lords Commission and the six divisions remain unharmed, but following this matter, they may even reach new heights."
"And should I fail, feel free to assign all responsibility to me."
Jing Yuan laughed heartily. "Excellent. With your word on this, I'll risk my old face."
"However, to truly achieve this, I cannot do it alone; we'll need your shizun's assistance."
"As a prominent clan of the Jade Tower Immortal Ship, the Fu family has even greater influence within Xianzhou than I, a mere general."
"I will speak with Minister Fu later. If she agrees, matters should proceed smoothly."
"Together, we can undoubtedly handle this situation."
At the mention of Fu Xuan, Su Jinyan's expression became somewhat uneasy.
"Erm, as long as the general doesn't reveal my true intentions, Lady Fu Xuan is bound to consent," he said hesitantly.
Jing Yuan responded meaningfully, "Do not underestimate Fu Xuan's intuition. In her presence, honesty is always the best approach."
"And naturally, if afterward, Minister Fu expresses dissatisfaction," Jing Yuan continued, "you will be responsible for resolving the issue on behalf of this general, understood?"
Su Jinyan's expression turned serious. "Of course, I will use my silver tongue to convincingly persuade Shizun."
Jing Yuan raised an eyebrow, slightly perplexed. Did I misunderstand something? Why does that sound so... off?
Within the Nether Mansion.
Xueyi sat quietly on a chair, her gaze unfocused, lost in thought.
Hanya watched her with concern. "Big Sister, are you alright? You seem somewhat preoccupied."
"It's fine. I believe Su-xiansheng is a man of his word; he won't go back on his commitments," Xueyi replied.
"As long as you approach him afterward with sincerity and offer a heartfelt apology, he will surely forgive you, Big Sister," Hanya added reassuringly.
Fu Xuan spoke coldly, "If apologies were sufficient, why would the Xianzhou Alliance need the Ten-Lords Commission and Cloud Knights?"
"Xueyi, today's incident arose solely from your arrogance. Had you heeded this venerable one's words initially, we wouldn't have ended up in such an awkward situation."
Xueyi fell silent, unable to respond.
Shortly thereafter,
Jing Yuan emerged, stepping through the door towards Xueyi. "Lady Xueyi," he addressed her.
"It seems there are still unresolved issues with Minister Su."
"He wishes to speak with you privately. Do you have time now?"
Hanya hastily rose to her feet. "General Jing Yuan, perhaps allow me to apologize on behalf of my sister..."
Jing Yuan's smile was slightly enigmatic. "Lady Hanya, no need to rush."
"If you wish to apologize, your turn will come eventually."
Hanya's weary yet beautiful eyes showed confusion. "What do you mean?"
"In matters of apology, does it truly matter whether sooner or later?"
Xueyi raised a hand to intervene. "No, I alone am responsible for my actions; this has nothing to do with Hanya."
"Hanya, stay here. I shall go explain everything to him now."
Jing Yuan smiled. "Then we should head back as well."
"The forum is awash with rumors, causing widespread unease."
"I must return to the Seat of Divine Foresight and set Qinzhu in motion."
"Once affairs here are settled, it's time to investigate those two prescriptions thoroughly and uncover the identity of the leader among the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus."
Buzz...
Shortly after Jing Yuan left, Fu Xuan's phone vibrated, indicating a text message from him.
A hint of bewilderment crossed Fu Xuan's delicate features.
Why would the general, unable to discuss something face-to-face, insist on sending a text?
Not reading the message would have been preferable; upon seeing its contents, Fu Xuan's beautiful eyes immediately conveyed a hint of danger.
Does this traitorous disciple truly believe he has grasped this venerable one's intentions? Why should this venerable one bear responsibility for his whims? This venerable—
Tsk, fine. Just this once, and there will be no repeat.
Fu Xuan's expression darkened slightly as she reluctantly sent a text to Yu Que's clan.
Fortunately, Su Jinyan had already proven his innocence, making the task quite straightforward.
All that was needed was to leverage the clan's connections and request that an envoy from the Ten Kings visit the Luofu Ten-Lords Commission to clarify the misunderstanding.
Otherwise, if he were genuinely guilty, not even Fu Xuan's clan—let alone all the clans on Xianzhou combined—could sway the Ten-Lords Commission.
Before Fu Xuan could finish handling the matter, she received another text from Jing Yuan.
It contained only a brief sentence: "Find a way to detain Dan Shu; she is highly suspected of being the leader of the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus."
Fu Xuan remained silent, momentarily taken aback.
Tsk, General Jing Yuan certainly doesn't mince words when commanding this venerable one.
One can only wonder when this general might finally step down and yield to more capable leadership.
With heavy steps, Xueyi pushed open the door and slowly approached Su Jinyan.
Su Jinyan teasingly lifted Xueyi's chin with his finger. "Don't you have anything to say to me, Lady Xueyi?"
Xueyi, expressionless, offered her apology, "I'm sorry."
Su Jinyan frowned. "Louder, I can barely hear you."
Xueyi bowed her head deeply. "I'm sorry. May my actions now bring you happiness."
By this point, Xueyi had profoundly acknowledged her mistake. Thus, uttering her apology came without any internal struggle.
Su Jinyan gently pinched Xueyi's cheeks. "Good girl," he cooed, "admitting and correcting your mistakes is what makes a well-behaved child."
Xueyi remained exceptionally docile, allowing him to do as he pleased. Even if Su Jinyan were to go further, she wouldn't protest. She knew she must bear the consequences of her own errors, as long as it didn't involve Hanya.
Su Jinyan softly caressed Xueyi's flawless, snow-like face, feeling the smoothness of her delicate skin. His fingers roughly parted her pink lips, seemingly inspecting the structure of her mouth.
Xueyi endured this passively, showing no hint of resistance.
"Did you know, Xueyi?" Su Jinyan began. "I actually preferred your defiant demeanor from before."
Xueyi remained silent, not responding.
Su Jinyan picked up Xueyi, removed her boots, held her dainty feet, and placed her on his lap.
In this manner, Su Jinyan ruthlessly indulged himself with Xueyi's mannequin body.
Yet, her beautiful eyes remained utterly devoid of emotion.
Somewhat puzzled, Su Jinyan paused his actions.
"Why did you stop?"
"Weren't you enjoying it immensely?" she asked.
"Feel free to continue as you wish," Xueyi replied mildly.
Confused, Su Jinyan questioned, "After treating you like this, why do you show no reaction at all?"
Just moments ago, he had brutally examined Xueyi's mannequin with extreme intensity. How could there be not even the slightest hint of blush on her face? Even if inherently emotionally detached, when physiological sensations are stimulated, one's breathing and expressions should still exhibit some discernible changes.
Could it be that her mannequin lacked such functionality?
"To enhance my combat capabilities, I instructed Huohuo to integrate special jade circuits within my mannequin body," Xueyi explained coldly. "These circuits not only eliminate pain perception but also suppress the secretion of neurotransmitters associated with pleasure."
"They keep my emotions consistently in a state of rationality."
"Even if you were to play with my mannequin for an entire day and night, I would feel absolutely nothing."
"Tsk tsk, what a waste of perfection," Su Jinyan caressed her cheek sympathetically. "With such a nearly flawless mannequin form unable to experience joy, it's no wonder your emotions are so cold."
"Xueyi, I intend to decipher your mannequin's jade circuitry and restore your ability to experience joy."
The corner of Xueyi's mouth curved into a mocking arc.
"Hmph, Su Jinyan, there's no need for your sympathy," she said mildly. "Your actions are merely driven by the desire to satisfy your own cravings through observing changes in my expressions."
Su Jinyan replied with a smile, "Xueyi, considering how obedient you've been, I'll share a secret with you—one hidden from everyone, including the general and Lady Fu Xuan herself."
"Heh heh, it turns out that fellow Disciple of Sanctus Medicus wasn't entirely wrong."
"From the very beginning, I was indeed the cultivator chosen by the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus. Joining the Divination Commission was just part of their plan."
Xueyi's delicate body shuddered, her beautiful eyes revealing traces of shock.
"Are you joking with me?" Unnoticed by herself, a tremor crept into her voice.
If this revelation were true, it would unequivocally paint Su Jinyan as a bona fide demon, effortlessly manipulating every individual in Luofu at his whim.
"Joking? Hah, perhaps before, I might have indulged in humor." Su Jinyan continued, "But now that I'm absolved, why would I jest with you?"
Intense emotions flared within Xueyi's lovely gaze, her aura surging powerfully.
"Ten Kings' Holy Judgment—!"
Countless chains materialized out of thin air, aiming to bind Su Jinyan.
Whoosh!
Su Jinyan's figure flickered and vanished instantly from before her eyes.
"I regret to inform you, but as I mentioned earlier," he said, appearing behind Xueyi with a gentle tap on her shoulder, "once I get serious, you wouldn't even be able to touch the hem of my garment."
Xueyi felt a chill run through her body, despite being a mannequin, which should have precluded such sensations.
"You...you demon! I will ensure your demise here!" Panting softly, she forced herself to remain calm.
"Haven't you forgotten? This is the Ten-Lords Commission." She composed herself, continuing, "With just one command from me, all Judges will swiftly converge here to utterly suppress you."
A smile played at the corner of Su Jinyan's lips as he casually crossed his legs, sitting relaxedly across from her.
"Well then, since you've brought it up..."
"Let me tell you what will happen next, so you can be prepared."
Nervously stepping back half a pace, Xueyi stared into his eyes, afraid even to blink.
Xueyi feared that if she blinked, he might vanish from her sight.
"Very soon, someone will knock on the door and call you outside."
"In the hallway, there will be an officer of higher rank standing there."
"Firstly, they will congratulate you for your efforts, as you've made Luofu a more peaceful place. You may receive an award or even a promotion."
"Then, they will inform you that I need to be released."
"You'll oppose it, possibly threatening with resignation, but ultimately, I will still be set free."
Xueyi's crimson eyes trembled intensely, her delicate body shivering uncontrollably.
"The reason for my release is the same as why you believed I should be punished."
"I have dealings with certain individuals who consider themselves world leaders, some of whom are enemies of your adversaries."
"In the adult world, only interests matter; there is no right or wrong."
"Sometimes, your superiors require people like me to handle unsavory matters, ensuring their power remains stable."
"That's why you call me a demon."
"But unfortunately, for you, I am indeed a necessary evil."
What...is he saying?
For a brief moment, Xueyi's mind went completely blank, unable to perceive any information from the outside world.
Knock, knock, knock.
Shortly after, knocking sounded at the door.
Smiling, Su Jinyan raised his hand with a gesture of invitation.
Dazed and disoriented, Xueyi stumbled over and opened the door, only to be confronted by the last person she wanted to see.
It was the emissary, tasked with conveying the Ten Kings' decrees to the Judge.
The emissary greeted her with a broad smile and shook hands warmly.
Firstly, they praised her accomplishments and expressed gratitude for all she had done for Luofu thus far. The Ten Kings intended to honor her with special permission to return to the living realm for three days.
In a daze, the mannequin girl couldn't recall how she ended up arguing fiercely with the emissary, leading to an unhappy parting.
Ultimately, however, the emissary insisted, compelling her to release the condemned prisoner, Su Jinyan.
At that moment, the beliefs she had proudly held for years were shattered mercilessly by cold reality.
Perhaps, he was right all along.
Su Jinyan smiled as he shook hands with the emissary.
The emissary's grin seemed intriguing. "Mr. Su Jinyan, may I ask if you're familiar with History Fictionologists?"
Su Jinyan looked puzzled, responding with a question mark.
Noticing Su Jinyan's bewildered expression, the emissary smiled. "Perhaps one day, you will come to know them."
"The esteemed Lord Ten has reviewed your records and is greatly intrigued by you."
"Perhaps we may meet again in the future."
Slightly perplexed, Su Jinyan maintained his composure, pretending to understand despite his confusion.
"I shall eagerly await that day, Mr. Emissary."
The emissary smiled faintly as their figure gradually faded away.
Shortly after,
Xueyi staggered towards Su Jinyan, who looked down at her from above. This once-feared Judge, who had struck terror into countless criminals, now found herself unable to muster even a hint of fighting spirit before him.
Su Jinyan's gaze remained composed as he stood with hands clasped behind his back. "Judge of the Underworld, you've done your best."
Heartbroken, Hanya rushed over to support Xueyi. "Stay away from my sister!"
Her weary yet beautiful eyes openly displayed unbridled anger towards Su Jinyan.
Su Jinyan slowly crouched down and extended his hand towards Xueyi. "Does knowing the truth feel unbearable?"
"When I first learned the truth, it was even more painful than what you're experiencing now."
"Xueyi, although you've lost your faith, you still have me."
"Feeling uncertain about your path forward?"
"Don't worry, I can guide you."
Without hesitation, Xueyi slapped away his hand, her voice strained. "Thou art unworthy."
Unfazed, Su Jinyan leaned close to Xueyi's lovely face, disregarding Hanya's gaze, and whispered softly:
"Wanna make another bet? You see, I'm quite lacking in friends.
"Let's wager on whether I can dismantle the criminal organization, Disciples of Sanctus Medicus, within three days."
"If I lose, I'll abandon my wicked ways, sever all personal relationships, and join the Ten-Lords Commission.
"From then on, I will willingly obey your commands: if you tell me to go east, I won't dare turn west."
"And if I win? You and Hanya become my friends—how does that sound?"